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8 Pages Rs: 1.00 Jammu Edition www.thestudentage.com

STUdenT aGe
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 49

Jayalalithaa opposes holding Asian Athletics Championships in TN

POLITICS IN DEATH PENALTY

Afghan assures Pakistan of handing over Maulvi Faqir Muhammaed

Editorial

Page 6

Court dismisses plea to register FIR against Shinde

IN BRIEF

Shri Amarnathji Yatra-2013

NEW DELHI: A complaint seeking registration of FIR against Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde for his Hindu terror remarks has been dismissed by a Delhi court which said it did not find any merit in it. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Kuldeep Narayan said, "Having heard the submissions and perusing the material available on record, I do not contd on page 2

Registration to commence President's maiden address on 18th March

Revised Health Certification made compulsory
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: The process of registering Yatris for this year's Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall commence on 18th March, 2013, simultaneously for both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes, through 422 Bank Branches. The decision to commence the registration for this year's Yatra was taken during an extensive review meeting held today by the Shrine Board Chairman, Shri N. N. Vohra, with Shri Navin K. Choudhary, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Preet Pal Singh, Additional Chief Executive Officer and other concerned functionaries of the Board. Shri Choudhary informed that Yatris who wish to undertake this year's Shri Amarnathji Yatra can register themselves from Registration Counters located all across the country through 422 designated Branches of J&K Bank, YES Bank, State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and HDFC Bank spread over all the States/ UTs. Full details of all the Registration Centres has been made available on the Board's website, www.shriamarnathjishrine.co m. CEO further stated that, this year's Yatra shall commence simultaneously, along both the Baltal and the Chandanwari routes, on 28th June and culminate on Raksha Bandhan, the 21st August, 2013. The CEO informed that the applicant-Yatri shall require to submit Compulsory Health Certificate while seeking registration for this year's Shri Amarnathji Yatra. Mr. Choudhary stated that the format of the Compulsory Health Certificate has been circulated by the Union Health Ministry and the J&K State Health Department to all States/ UTs and is also available contd on page 2 NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday addressed the crucial joint session of Parliament. While the Left boycotted the address protesting against price hike, other political parties listened to the address in rapt attention. With scams denting its image, Government pledged to usher in reforms for greater transparency, probity and accountability in governance and to enact a slew of legislations to tackle bribery by domestic and foreign public officials. In an hour-long address to the joint sitting of Parliament, his first, President Pranab Mukherjee also touched on various issues contd on page 2

Budget session begins with

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Highlights of Presidents address

Left MPs boycott president's address

Govt trying to bring amendments to address unions' concerns: Labour Min

NEW DELHI: The Labour Minister Mallikarjuna Kharge has said the government is trying to bring amendments that will address the concerns raised by the two day strike of various trade unions. Mr Kharge was talking to reporters outside Parliament House. He said there were financial implications and difficulties that will have to be first looked into. Stating contd on page 2

T T

he Left parties boycotted President Pranab Mukherjee's first address to the joint sitting of the two houses of parliament Thursday as a mark of protest while supporting the two-day nationwide strike called by major trade unions. Before the contd on page 2

BJP criticises President's address

erming as a "damp squib" President Pranab Mukherjee's joint address to Parliament, BJP on Thursday said the speech did not touch upon relevant issues like price rise and corruption. contd on page 2

1. Land Bill will be passed in Budget session 2. Government will protect interests of overseas Indians 3. Judicial accountability bill to be moved 4. India's health infrastructure will be improved 5. India to launch Mars mission this year 6. Sri Lankan Tamils must get equality 7. Amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act 8. Government deeply concerned about incidents of sexual offences against women.

Mirwaiz placed under house arrest

SRINAGAR, FEB 21 : Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, chairman of the moderate Hurriyat group, was placed under house arrest here Thursday immediately after his return from Delhi, his aide said. He arrived here for the first time following the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru in Delhi's Tihar Jail Feb 9. "He was asked to board a security vehicle at the Srinagar airport and escorted by a group of local policemen to his Nigeen residence after his arrival from Delhi. Police officers contd on page 2

HYDERABAD,FEB 21: Two bombs placed on bicycles exploded in a crowded market-place in Hyderabad on Thursday, and Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said at least 11 people were killed and 50 wounded. All major cities were placed on high alert, television channels said, adding that as many as 15 people may have been killed in the explosions. Hyderabad is a major IT centre in India, only second to Bangalore. Microsoft and Google have major centres in the city. "Both blasts took place within a contd on page 2

PM calls the killing of innocents cowardly act Security tightened in Delhi after blasts
NEW DELHI: Security was stepped up in the national capital, especially at crowded areas like India Gate and railway stations, today in the wake of the serial blasts in Hyderabad. A senior Delhi Police official said its personnel have been alerted and they were keeping a tight vigil on the city. "We are always on alert. There is nothing to panic. All districts and railways have been alerted, especially India Gate and other vulnerable areas," the official said. contd on page 2

11 dead, 50 injured in serial blasts

BJP holds demonstration to claim body of slain Indian national

JAMMU: The inhabitants of the villages of Nikowal, Pargwal, Najwal, Rangpur, Gura and Anaspura demonstrated against the callous attitude of the powers that be in not forcefully claiming the body of the slain Indian National hailing from Pargwal from Pakistan who had mistakingly crossed to the other side and was captured. This massive demonstration was led by State Incharge Cells and former General Secretary of State BJP Sat Sharma(CA) and Jai Singh, Mandal President Pargwal who sharing the anguish and indignation of Jawan, in the same fashion the body of the brutally killed Chamel Singh has not been handed over to his relatives. Sat Sharma cautioned the State and the Indian government to abandon the knee weak policy in dealing Pakistan. Sharma said at the moment we are not even questioning the circumstances in which Chamel Singh was killed in cold blood but we only want at the moment his body to be handed over to his family to enable them perform his last rites. Sharma assured the agitating villagers of Pargwal and contd on page 2

Baloria, Rana, Yashpal declared elected unopposed to LC

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: According to Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, who is also Retiring Officer for Biennial Election of the J&K Legislative Council by the Members of the J&K Legislative Assembly Mr. M. Ramzan, three candidates have been declared elected unopposed to the Legislative Council Seats. These included Rani Gargi Baloria of Indian National Congress Party(INC), Mr. Devinder Singh Rana of National Conference (NC) and Mr. Yashpal Sharma of People's contd on page 2

the people over Pakistan's high headedness and our country's total indifference and weakness over this issue. It has been the habit of the belligerent neighbour, Sat

Sharma wondered that like the beheading instance of our Indian Jawans two months back Pakistani authorities did not handover the severed head to the family of the

Togadia packed off from Jammu airport

JAMMU: VHP leader Praveen Togadia was on Thursday detained by the police at Jammu airport and sent back by authorities, fearing law and order disturbance. "I have been detained at the Jammu Airport and not allowed to move out of the complex," the Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader said. "I was served notice by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Jammu which said that I will not be allowed to enter contd on page 2

Normal life hit in Kashmir due to separatist-sponsored strike

SRINAGAR: Normal life was disrupted in Kashmir Valley for the second day on Thursday due to a strike called by hardline Hurriyat Conference in support of their demand for handing over the body of Parliament attack convict Mohammad Afzal Guru, who was hanged in Tihar Jail. Most of the shops, business establishments and petrol pumps remained closed due to the strike, while public transport remained off the roads. However, private vehicles could be seen plying on the roads in Srinagar and some other parts of the Valley. contd on page 2

DGP for reasonable restrictions to stop casualties

SRINAGAR, FEB 21: Describing the imposition of curfew and restrictions as an effective strategy to stop casualties, Director General of Police J&K, Ashok Prasad on Thursday appealed parents to make their children responsible citizens and don't allow their children to get misled by scrupulous elements. "We don't seek pleasure by arresting minors. Our job is to nab stone-pelters and anti-social elements. Police is pro-people and we have no personal animosity with pelters but we want to see them as responsible citizens." Prasad told Srinagar based contd on page 2

Shabir launches LPV immunization prog in state

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: Minister of state for Health, Shabir Ahmed Khan today launched the Liquid Pentavalent Vaccine (LPV) in the state - a multipurpose vaccine that protects the children from five fatal diseases. The new Vaccine would replace the DPT, immunizing the children against five diseases of Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, HepatitisB and Haemophlious

New vaccine protects children from five diseases

Influenza-B (Hib), as against the previous vaccine that provided protection against only three diseases. Speaking after formally launching the LPV vaccination programme at Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar, this morning, Mr. Shabir Khan said that Jammu and Kashmir has achieved the distinction of being among the six states of the country having this revolutionary, immunization programme for children. He said the new vaccine would revolutionize the child-care in the state. The Minister said the decision regarding introduction of Pentavalent Vaccine was taken at the 8th meeting of Mission Steering Group of NRHM in which the Government of India decided to introduce the Liquid Pentavalent Vaccine in six more States, including Jammu and Kashmir. He said the States of Kerala and Tamil Nadu had already introduced the vaccine in 2011. The Minister said that to combat the infant mortality contd on page 2

Governor inaugurates World Yoga Conference at JU

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: N. N. Vohra, Governor, has called for enlarging awareness about the relevance of Yoga, adding that it can make a most significant contribution towards the establishment of stable societies which promote brotherhood, harmony and peace. The Governor, as Chief Guest, was inaugurating a 3day World Yoga Conference on "Global Peace and Harmony through Holistic Approach of Yoga and Meditation", organized by The Yoga Centre, University of Jammu, at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium here today. The Governor observed that Yoga inculcates discipline and is valuable alternative medicine for the effective management of varied physical ailments and neurological disorders. As such, he said that all possible measures should be taken to promote Yoga in our State and the country. He expressed happiness that large numbers, particularly children, are taking keen interest in learning and practicing Yoga. He observed that if a Yoga practitioner attains the highest levels of concentration and coordination of mind and body he can aspire to embark in the realm of spirituality. Referring to the global situation and the growing number of countries, across the world, which were being devastated by conflicts, violence and terrorism, the Governor observed that there is need for encouraging all initiatives and approaches which can possibly reduce conflicts and tensions and help in promoting peace and harmony. The Governor, who is Chancellor of the Jammu University, expressed high appreciation of the excellent standard of Yoga performances given by the group of seven students, which included two girls. He also lauded the contd on page 2

BJP leaders pay tributes to Pargwal Mangat Singh Manhas

JAMMU: In a programme organised in village Bharwal Molu in the memory of BJP senior leader from Pargwal Mangat Singh Manhas on his first death anniversary, State President Jugal Kishore Sharma, alongwith Leader of Legislature Party & MLA Ashok Khajuria, VicePresident Col. Uttam Singh, State General Secretary Kavinder Gupta, senior leaders Sat Sharma (C.A.) and Chaman Lal Kanathia, paid rich tributes to this mass leader on Thursday. They contd on page 2

Bharat Bandh: Banking, transport sector hit hardest on day 2

NEW DELHI: Banking services were Thursday paralysed with ATMs running out of cash in metro cities and public transport disrupted on second day of the twoday Central unions sponsored strike which evoked a mixed response in most states barring Kerala where normal life was hit. Life remained normal in West Bengal though banking services were crippled with nationalised and private banks closed and ATMs remaining non-functional. Transport services were normal and shops, markets contd on page 2

Autonomy is our right and we shall have it: Kamal

SRINAGAR, FEB 21: Describing Autonomy as the right of people of Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference additional General Secretary, Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal Thursday said that Government of India can no longer deprive the people of the state from this right. "If Centre will not grant autonomy to the state this time, mark my words, in coming future it will be compelled to grant freedom to the state," Kamal told Srinagar based News Agency CNS and added that there are some reliable and broadminded people in New Delhi who feel the pain and aspirations of people of Jammu and Kashmir. Kamal termed the issue of returning of mortal remains of Afzal Guroo as non-issue stating that when Afzal was alive no one came forward to help him and when he is dead everyone is raising hue and cry about his body. National Conference additional General Secretary, Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal claimed that Government of India can no longer resist from granting autonomy to the state. "Time has changed now. Government of India can no longer throw our autonomy resolution into dust bin. contd on page 2

Khoda Lauds the role of K P Sabha Ambphalla

JAMMU, FEB 21: The Kashmiri Sabha Ambphlla has entered the hundredth year of its founding. In this connection a cultural programme was organized. The Chief Guest on the occasion was former DGP and the to be CVC kuldeep Khoda. The President of K P Sabha K K khosa elaborated upon the diverse activities of the Sahba and how it was helping the poor students of the State. A thoughtful paper on the ancient culture of Kashmir was presented by renowned scholar Dr. S S Toshakhani. The programme began with the contd on page 2

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2013

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hearted and communal."There is a lobby in Delhi which is proKashmiri and understands the reality about Kashmir. Such people are asset and they realize that Kashimiris are not being given a fair deal and National Conference is hopeful that such people will impress upon the Central Government to grant autonomy to the State," he said and added if Central Government will show reluctance in granting autonomy to the state at this stage then a time will soon come when the country will be forced to leave Kashmir. Dr Kamal lamented that some people are politicizing the issue of Afzal Guroo. "When Afzal was alive no one including Hurriyat leaders extended a helping hand to him but now people are demanding his body which is a non-issue. I ask a question to the separatists. Why they acted as a mute spectator and why they didn't give strike calls on Afzal Guroo when he was in Tihar Jail and now why they are making so much clamour on his mortal remains. Afzal is no more now and we must stop playing dirty politics on his issue," he said and added evern Jihan Council Chairman, Syed Salahudin has asked people of Kashmir not to make it an issue. of Doctors/ Medical Institutes from the remaining States/ UTs will be put on the website as soon as these are received from the States which have not so far responded. He said that, for Yatra 2013, Health Certificates issued after 1st March, 2013 would be valid. CEO informed that no one below the age of 13 years or above the age of 75 years and no pregnant lady with more than six weeks pregnancy will be registered for the Yatra. CEO stated that, under the close guidance of Shri N. N. Vohra, Governor, J&K, who is also the Chairman of the Shrine Board, it had been possible to progressively expand the Registration network every year, for enhancing the convenience of the intending Yatris. This year, the Board has been able to increase the number of Registration Counters to 422, from 276 in 2012. For the first time, SBI, PNB and HDFC Banks are participating in the registration process. For the purpose of Registration, to be done on 'First-Come-First-Serve Basis', the requisite Application Form and the Compulsory Health Certificate Form, can be collected from any of the designated branches of J&K Bank, YES Bank, State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and HDFC Bank or downloaded from the Board's website. The Registration process will be completed when a Yatra Permit is issued to the eligible pilgrims, who shall be required to submit a duly filled-in Application Form, Compulsory Health Certificate and a payment of Rs. 30/- to cover the handling charges. Accountability Bill in this session as a 'significant' measure towards judicial reforms. The President devoted a considerable part of the speech to the economic situation and the burden of gathering anxieties about slowdown, job security and employment prospects. "People are concerned about the security of our women and children. They are also anxious about timely delivery of their entitlements and about persisting social and economic inequality," he said. Mukherjee said the past year has been 'very difficult one' for the global economy. "Europe is in recession. Most emerging markets are growing very slowly. It has been a difficult year for India also. Both global and domestic factors have affected our growth. We need to address the impact of both. My Government has responded to the situation by taking several measures to revive investment activity and investor sentiment," he said. 2001 that had sparked violent clashes. Witnesses told Reuters they heard at least two explosions in the Dilsukh Nagar area of Hyderabad just after dusk but there could have been more. TV showed debris and body parts strewn on the street in the area, a crowded neighbourhood of cinema halls, shops, restaurants and a fruit and vegetable market. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called it a "dastardly attack". "I appeal to the public to remain calm and maintain peace," he said in a Twitter message. In July 2011, three near-simultaneous blasts ripped through India's financial capital, Mumbai. At least 20 people were killed and over 100 wounded in the blasts set off by Muslim militants, authorities said. Last year, four small explosions occurred in quick succession in a busy shopping area of Pune. Strongly condemning the twin blasts in Hyderabad, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday described it as a "dastardly attack" and said the guilty should not "go unpunished." "This is a dastardly attack, the guilty will not go unpunished," a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) quoted Manmohan Singh as saying of the two blasts that killed at least 11 people and injured 50. The PMO also said the prime minister "strongly condemned" the bomb blasts. While expressing shock and grief over the loss of lives in the blasts, Manmohan Singh appealed to the public to remain calm and maintain peace, a statement issued here said. most of the banks were closed due to the nationwide strike sponsored by trade unions. Schools remained shut on account of winter vacation. Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who is under house arrest in Delhi, had issued a protest calendar on Monday, saying complete "civil curfew" will be observed on Wednesday and Thursday, while a shutdown will be observed after Friday prayers followed by peaceful protests. Hundreds of policemen donning riot gear were deployed in sensitive areas in Srinagar and other towns to thwart any possible protest. Authorities on Tuesday imposed restrictions under Section 144 CrPC in Srinagar, apprehending law and order problems in view of the three-day strike called by the separatist group. The authorities said the restrictions were imposed to avoid breach of peace. On the occasion Director Health service Jammu Dr. Madhu Kullar, Director Family welfare Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Kuldeep Kesar, Drug Controller Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Satish Gupta, Medical superintendent GH, Ghandhi Nagar, Dr. Ramesh Gupta, Deputy Directors Health Services, Chief Medical Officers, specialists of various faculties large number of doctors and paramedicos were present .

Contd. from page 1...

Court dismisses....
find any merit in the present complaint... "The complainant has not taken any such previous sanction either of the central government or of the state government before filing the present complaint and accordingly, cognizance of the offence under sections 153(A) and 295(A) of the IPC cannot be taken in the present case. The complaint is wholly devoid of merit and is accordingly, dismissed," the ACMM said. The court passed the order on a complaint of advocate V P Sharma urging it to take cognizance of the offences allegedly committed by Shinde and also to direct the Delhi Police for registration of FIR against the Home Minister and associates. He sought FIR for offences of promoting enmity between different groups on the ground of religion and deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings. He alleged that Shinde had made "condemnable, malicious and baseless" comment on January 20, 2013 that BJP and RSS are running "Hindu terror camps". Delhi-Jammu flight 'S241 Jet' plane around 11:20 hours, was served notice by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Arya Sharma that he will not be allowed to enter by Jammu Police fearing law and order problem, District Development Commissioner Jammu, Sanjeev Verma said. Verma said Togadia was not allowed to come out of the airport and has been sent back. The step was taken by the state government in view of last year's visit of Togadia to Rajouri district, where his provocative speech triggered tension between two communities. Police had booked Togadia for allegedly hurting the sentiments of a community at a public rally in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on March 4 last year.

Governor inaugurates....
role of their teacher.He said that a brief documentary should be prepared of such demonstrations to encourage children in various institutions. He interacted with the Yoga students and their teacher and presented mementos to them. The Governor released a Souvenir and a CD on Meditation brought out on this occasion. The Governor was honoured on this occasion by presenting a memento to him by Prof. M. P. S. Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University. Earlier, the Governor lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the commencement of the Conference. Prof. M. P. S. Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, thanked the Governor for inaugurating the Conference. He said that Yoga promotes a healthy and peaceful life.

BJP leaders pay ....

garlanded the portrait of Mangat Singh Manhas and remembered his life as political activist. Jugal Kishore Sharma, in his tribute, described Mangat Singh Manhas as a tall leader of the area who had very good social and political standing among the people. It was due to his untiring efforts that the party was successful in reaching the masses more effectively and bringing into party fold a large population. Ashok Khajuria said that the committed activists like Mangat Singh Manhas are the real strength of the party and in his untimely demise the BJP has suffered an irreparable loss. He said the political career of this great soul will remain to inspire the people of the border areas to come forward to popularize the nationalist ideology. Col. Uttam Singh said that the border people of Pargwal were often seen praising Mangat Singh Manhas for his straight forwardness and courage to call spade a spade. Kavinder Gupta said that Mangat Singh Manhas was a multi-facet personality who worked as a binding force to unite the nationalist peole of the area. Sat Sharma (C.A.) said that Mangat Singh Manhas had very clear approach in public life and he always preached nation first and self last. Chaman Lal Kanathia said that he feels it as personal loss as Mangat Singh Manas was always with him a elder brother and suported in every work. Later, Jugal Kishore Sharma and other leaders also visited the family of Chameil Singh and assured them that the party will continue to put efforts to ensure that his dead body is brought back from Pakistan at the earliest.They also criticized the Deputy Chief Minister for not taking the matter seriously. Pawan Khajuria, Sukhdev Singh, Subhash Jandial, Pt. Mela Ram, Shamsher Singh, Ashok Singh Chib, Jai Singh and Ramesh Khajuria also paid their floral tributes.

Left MPs boycott.....

address, members of the Communist Party of IndiaMarxist (CPI-M), the Communist Party of India (CPI), the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) and the Forward Bloc raised slogans against the government policies and showed placards inside the parliament complex.

DGP for reasonable ....

News Agency CNS and added that reasonable restrictions will likely to be put in place on Friday in sensitive areas. DG Police, Ashok Prasad said that minors are being misled by scrupulous elements and parents must control their children and should not allow these elements to play with their children. "Police is being blamed that it detains even minors, but I tell you a stone pelter is a stone pelter. I wonder how parents allow their children to come on roads. They should take care of them lest they deviate from the right path," Prasad said. He said that as compared to 2008 and 2010, this time the situation remained well under control and not many youth indulged in stone-pelting and arson. "I know that situation in Valley is well under control, but we must be cautious and careful as we don't know what will be the plan of anti-social elements. A single causality can trigger wide spread protests and can give anti-social elements an opportunity to exploit the situation, so I feel that we should remain extra cautious and should not allow anyone to disturb the peace," Prasad said and added that reasonable restrictions will be imposed likely on Friday in sensitive areas. "There will be no curfew like situation on Friday and the reasonable restrictions that will be put in place will not give you an impression that whole Valley is shut. It is better to restrict the free movement of people in sensitive areas rather than to give a free hand to antipeace elements," Prasad said.

Govt trying to ....

that the government has taken several welfare measures for the unorganized sector, he said the striking trade unions have also raised concerns including price rise, oil prices and disinvestment that have economic repercussions.

Khoda Lauds....
lighting of the lamp followed by Swarswati Vandana which was presented by the children of Abhay High School Muthi. Kuldeep Khoda in his speech lauded the efforts of the social work undertaken by the Sabha in mitigating the problems of the displaced community. He hoped that under the guidance of the present president the Sabha will reach out to even greater heights. On the occasion the role of former Presidents T N Peshin, Dr.Koshalya Walli, T N Khosa and Prof A.N Sadhu were lauded. The high mark of the function was the presentation of a cultural programme by melody queen Kailash Mehra Sadhu. The programme was attended by eminent people drawn from all walks of life. Senior Vice President of the Sabha Ashok Braroo presented the vote of thanks. The programme was compered by pradeep Kaul.

BJP criticises....
"It is a damp squib as it has not actually touched what is relevant today and we are very disappointed," BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters outside Parliament after the President's address. Rudy also dubbed the address as an "old one". "I think he read the old speech because there was nothing new thing in the speech," Rudy said. "The President has given a joint statement in both Houses. It has not referred to the issue of corruption after all. UPA government is besieged with charges of corruption especially in the latest copter case," Rudy said. He said the government did not talk about corruption deliberately. "Since this seems to be the last joint session before the election, I think by design government has chosen not to talk about corruption and other factors about inflation and price rise, which is affecting every household. Petrol and diesel prices are constantly going up," he said. Attacking the Prime Minister, the BJP leader said, "The Prime Minister is an economist and the economic growth has shrunk to 5 per cent from 9 per cent. Unfortunately, the President has not touched upon it (in his speech)." Rudy said, "The President did not address the basic issues of corruption and price rise that the country is facing today. The problem of corruption was also avoided by him. For example the recent allegation of corruption in AgustaWestland helicopter deal was not there."

Bharat Bandh....
and business establishments opened in the state. In the national capital, commuters faced hardships for the second consecutive day as majority of auto-rickshaws and taxis stayed off the road in support of the strike. Various industrial units and banks either remained closed or witnessed thin attendance while markets and commercial areas were open. In Maharashtra, majority of ATMs dried up in the financial capital Mumbai. "A majority of ATMs have dried up while (bank) branches are shut. Additionally, there has not been any cheque clearing as personnel from RBI too joined the strike. It will take

Mirwaiz placed ....

accompanying him told the Mirwaiz that he could not move out of his residence," Shahid-ul-Islam, secretary of the Mirwaiz, media He also said media persons were not allowed to attend the press conference that the Mirwaiz had called at his Nigeen residence Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, life in Srinagar and other towns in the valley remained affected for the second day Thursday due to the shutdown called by hardline separatist leader, Syed Ali Geelani to protest Guru's hanging and to mount pressure on the authorities to return his body to his family. While shops, public transport and other businesses remained closed in the city, private transport, banks, government and post offices functioned normally here. Police has said no untoward incident has been reported from anywhere in the valley so far.

Security tightened ...

At least three powerful blasts rocked the busy commercial hub of Hyderabad close to a crowded bus stand at Dilsukhnagar this evening claiming at least 10 lives. The blasts took place during the peak hours outside a roadside eatery near Konark cinema theatre in the locality resulting in a stampede-like situation with people trying to run for safety.

Budget session....
like slower growth of economy and steps to deal with factors responsible for the slowdown. Against the backdrop of the recent gangrape and brutal assault on a 23-year-old girl in Delhi, he expressed deep concerns over incidents of sexual offences against women and referred to the promulgation of an ordinance providing for stringent punishment in such cases. "My government remains committed to ushering in reforms for greater transparency, probity, integrity and accountability in governance," said Mukherjee, days after the country was rocked by yet another scam in the Rs 3,600 crore deal for purchase of VVIP helicopters from an Italian company AugustaWestland. "To this end, my government attaches priority to the enactment of legislation proposed in the Whistle Blowers' Protection Bill, the Prevention of Bribery of Foreign Public Officials and Officials of Public International Organizations Bill, Citizens' Right to Grievance Redress Bill, and The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, which already stand introduced in the Parliament," he said. The President said the government is also considering amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act to punish the guilty and protect the honest public servants 'more effectively'. The address, a constitutional requirement, marks the commencement of the Budget session of Parliament. Mukherjee also announced that government proposes to introduce the Judicial Standards and

BJP holds ...

other adjoining villages who had assembled in large numbers to protest against the ghastly incident of murdering Chamel Singh and overall not to hand over the dead body. Sat Sharma also assured the people that BJP is committed to take up the matter at the highest level and shall not rest till the matter was resolved as per the aspirations of the family and the people here. The villagers were all in unison in condemning Pakistan, its anti India stance since its birth and moreover inhuman tactics employed by it even in matters of disposing of the dead bodies. Sat Sharma and Jai Singh also visited the victim's family and while comforting them assured all possible help in securing the dead body as also other measures providing relief to the family.

ADMISSION BOOKING 2013

12th Pass or 12th Class studying students who are interested in Engg. / Medical fields are informed to get their seats booked in reputed colleges of Northern India under Management seats without any donation securing 50% marks in Phy, Chem, Maths/Bio for the following courses, M.D.S, B.D.S, M. Tech, B. Tech, B. Sc Nursing, B. Pharmacy, Diploma in all streams G.N.M, M.Ed, B.Ed, MBA, LLB, Hotel Management, MCA, BBA etc.

Registration to ....
on the website of the Shrine Board (www.shriamarnathjishrine.com). Mr. Choudhary further informed that for ensuring against the use of fraudulent Health Certificates, only such a Health Certificate which has been issued by Doctors or Medical Institutes authorised by the concerned State Government / UT Administration will be valid for registration. He also informed that all States/ UTs have been asked to furnish a list of Doctors / Medical Institutes who would be authorised to issue the Compulsory Health Certificates to the eligible Yatris in their respective States/ UTs. He said that lists of Doctors/ Medical Institutes authorised to issue Compulsory Health Certificate have been received from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Daman & Diu and Dadra &Nagar Haveli, Jharkhand, Tripura, J&K, and Chandigarh and these can be seen on the website of the Shrine Board. The CEO informed that the lists

Togadia packed off....

Jammu as it will create law and order problem," Togadia said. The VHP leader said, "They did not allow me to exercise my fundamental rights as a citizen of India". Following the incident, VHP and Bajrang Dal activists protested outside the airport claiming the VHP leader was not even allowed to meet them. The VHP leader said he told authorities there was not a single example where his visit or speech had triggered any law and order problem across the country or in Jammu and Kashmir. "I was on two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir to hear complaints of community about J&K government's discrimination in jobs, employment, education, trade, security and religious rights during the visit," he said. Togadia, who arrived in

Shabir launches....
rate, the Centre Government introduced this vaccine which will be provided at every government hospital free of cost. The Minister stressed for launching massive campaign to aware the people of the State about the new immunization programme, especially residing in far-flung, remote and hilly areas. Earlier, the Minister was informed through a Power Point Presentation that the State government has received 2.83 lakh doses for the first quarter of the year which will be administrated among 2,23,741 infants across the State. He was also apprised that the vaccine has been launched at every district of the State today.

RAINA EDUCATION CONSULTANCY

(Opposite Sub Treasury Tirth Nagar Talab Tillo Jammu) Mob: 94191-37183

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Baloria, Rana, Yashpal ....

Democratic Party (PDP). Today was the last date for withdrawal of candidature for Biennial Election of the J&K Legislative Council by the Members of the J&K Legislative Assembly.

Autonomy is our....
Our party is striving hard to get autonomy for the state as it is the genuine document of the people of Jammu and Kashmir which has legal authenticity," Kamal said and added that National Conference is committed on autonomy issue. Kamal said that everyone in Delhi is not chicken

11 dead, 50....
radius of 150 metres," Shinde told reporters, adding the explosives were placed on bicycles parked in the crowded marketplace. "Eight people died at one place, three at the other." The explosions come less than two weeks after India hanged Afzal Guru for a militant attack on the parliament in

Normal life hit ...

Attendance in government offices was thin and

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Hall 101, South Block, Bahu Plaza, Jammu (M): 9906083095, 9205072038

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NEWS IN BOX

First Lady inaugurates painting exhibition at Kala Kendra

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21 - Mrs. Usha Vohra, First Lady, inaugurated a 4-day painting exhibition by Ms. Insha Manzoor, a final year student of Bachelor of Visual Arts, at Kala Kendra, here today. In all, 23 paintings on varied themes drawn by this young artist of the State are on display at the Exhibition which will remain open for public viewing from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily up to 24th of this month. The First Lady went around the Exhibition and evinced keen interest in the work of this young painter. She enquired from Insha from where she got the ideas behind her various paintings and complimented her for the high quality of her artistic creations. As a token of appreciation of her artistic work, the First Lady presented Rs. 25,000 to the young artist and wished her a bright future ahead. Among those present on the occasion were Mrs. Savita Bakshi, Additional Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, a good number of art lovers, intellectuals, prominent citizens and students.

RDD to establish grievance cell: Sagar

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: A grievance cell to receive public feedback about the status of various developmental programmes of the Rural Development Department and complaints if any, will be set up in the department very soon so that an effective monitoring mechanism is set up. This information was given at a high level review meeting chaired by the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar. Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Peer, Special Secretary, Rural Development Department, Mr. Sajad Ahmed Khan, Member Secretary, MGNREGA, Mr. Pawan Rathore and other senior officers were present. Highlighting the need for ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of the schemes of the

So-called Third Front of Congress is a pressure group: Kamal

"I am loyal towards Soz and not part of Third Front: Madan Lal Sharma SRINAGAR, FEB 21: Accusing Congress party for creating a pressure group in the form of Third Front, senior National Conference leader, Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal Thursday said that though State Congress president Professor Saif-u-Din Soz has termed the leaders associated with 'so-called' Third Front as rejected lot but the feeling is that this is a pressure group created by Congress to oppose the policies and moves of National Conference. Meanwhile, Congress leader and Parliament Member Jammu, Madan Lal Sharma said that he is very much loyal towards Saif-u-Din Soz and he has nothing to do with Third Front. Kamal told that Congress in Jammu and Kashmir lacks discipline and there is no accountability in the party. "Whosoever wishes forms a group in state Congress? We feel that it is not a Third Front but a pressure group which is being given hype to oppose the policies and moves of National Conference. However, Soz has termed this group a rejected lot and NC has nothing to do with this," Kamal said and added that it is the Soz who is entitled to take all decisions in the state and NC has to deal with Soz and with this 'socalled' Third Front or Pressure Group. Meanwhile, Congress leader and Parliament Member Jammu, Madan Lal Sharma said that he is very much loyal towards Saif-u-Din Soz and he has nothing to do with Third Front. "I am loyal towards Soz and not a part of any Third Front. I must tell you that I was not a part of the meeting and I even don't know which leaders are mulling to create Third Front and whether it really exists or not," Madan Lal told CNS and added that he doesn't want to be a part of any controversy.

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar chairing a meeting at Jammu. department, the Minister said that the grievance redressal cell would facilitate an effective feedback besides, ensuring dayto-day monitoring which would go a long way in the effective implementation of various welfare programmes. It was given out in the meeting that the cell would function at the administrative level to receive, not only the complaints and grievances, but observations, feedback and suggestions regarding the work done under various schemes in order to improve the present mechanism / methods adopted by the department. The cell will be having a core team at the administrative level headed by an Additional Secretary, Under Secretary and it would be supported by Member secretary, MGNREGA, Deputy Secretary, HRM and Deputy Director Planning. At the Directorate / district level the support team would consist of BDO Headquarter, Directorates and BDO headquarter/ districts. The meeting was told that every officer will be himself accountable to any complaint pertaining to his block/district/area of work. The cell would have toll free number and would function during the office time of 9 am to 5 pm. It was also given out in the meeting that an amount of Rs. 515 crore has been spent under MGNREGA up to January this fiscal year.

Home delivery of LPG in Budgam ensured

BUDGAM, FEBRUARY 21: A meeting of officers of and LPG dealers was held under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Budgam, Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Shah here today. The representatives from Budgam gas agencies were directed to complete KYC norms of the consumers in the district strictly by March 04, 2013 and ensure home delivery of gas in the towns of the district from February 23, 2013, which include Chrar-i-Sharief, B.K.Pora, Chadoora, Khansahib, Budgam, Magam, Khag, Beerwah, Ompora and Narbal.The LPG dealers were directed to sub mit the weekly details of point distribution and home distribution to the office of District Development Commissioner. The meeting resolved to make use of microphone by the LPG dealers to announce the arrival of gas so that the consumers shall be informed in time. The role of Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution department in providing services to public was also discussed in the meeting and was termed satisfactory by the District Development Commissioner, Budgam.

Gurezi pays surprise visit to Filtration Plant Boria

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21:The Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi today paid surprise visit to Filtration Plant Boria Jammu and took stock of the status and functioning of the vital installation supplying potable water to major parts of Jammu city. The Minister interacted with the officials and directed them to maintain sanitation around the plant and ensure adequate water supply to the people. Mr. Gurzi expressed satisfaction with the attendance of the staff and asked them to maintain punctually and evolve work culture. Earlier, the Minister interacted with the representatives of the All J & K Sheep and Wool Worker Association (SWWA) who called on him here today to project their demands. The demands projected by the visiting delegation included two and half day pay for para veterinary staff working at Farms, Feeding and Migratory Centers, Ram distribution policy on exchange of ewes to avoid losses of livestock in the government farms, amendment in recruitment rules both gazetted and non-gazetted services, implementation of 6th pay Commission in favour of Wool Board Employees and proper drug purchase policy. The Minister heard them patiently and assured that their genuine demands would be looked into phased manner. He assured them that the matter with regard to confirmation in various categories against Gazetted cadres would be taken up with the concerned on priority to explore the possibility of one time relaxation . Responding to the demand of hard duty allowance, the Minister assured them that the matter would be taken with the Finance department. The Minister called for organizing awareness among the sheep breeders and farming community about the facilities being provided by the Sheep department. He also called the field staff to intimate the sheep and cattle breeders to scientific techniques to help them get better revenues. He also asked the Veterinary experts to work towards the promotion of vital Animal and Sheep Husbandry sector by encouraging the farmers to adopt modern techniques for cattle and sheep rearing. He said that the sector has huge potential in the state with over sixty percent of the population traditionally associated with this vital activity adding that there was a need to switch over to scientific methods to make it a profitable activity.

DDC Kupwara inspects new SDH at Sogam

KUPWARA, FEBRUARY 21: The District Development Commissioner, Kupwara, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez accompanied by Health and Engineering authorities visited the new Sub District Hospital (SDH) under construction at Sogam to review the ongoing development works at the Hospital. The District Development Commissioner was informed that an amount of Rs. 26 crores have been earmarked for the construction of the Hospital building at Sogam, out of which Rs. 6 crore stands utilized so far on the Hospital building carried out by the JKPCC. The JKPCC authorities were directed to complete the ongoing works within a stipulated timeframe and funds already released should be judiciously utilized early and remaining allocation be released by taking the matter with higher authorities for its release. The delegations also met the visiting dignitaries and apprised them about their day to day problems. It was assured that their demands shall be solved in near future.

BJP hits out on Omar Abdullah for provocative statement

JAMMU: BJP today accused the Omar Abdullah government of issuing provocative statements over the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. "While the ruling National Conference party leadership issuing highly provocative statements over the hanging of Afzal Guru and its ruling partner Congress party maintaining a convenient silence, it is more than evident that the Omar government has become a security risk", BJP State Chief spokesperson & National Executive Member Jitendra Singh told a press conference here today. Singh alleged that the two coalition parties are following a dangerous divisive policy with the sole agenda of continuing in power through appeasement of Kashmir separatists. He also released documents to mark the BJP 'Karyakarta Sammelan' held in Jammu on February 17, meant to serve as resource material for party cadre across the state. Besides the concern of security risk posed by coalition government, Singh said, the BJP was worried about mis-governance at all levels and rampant corruption in administration. Referring to the displaced Kashmiri Pandit families, Singh said,even as these Hindu families awaited a dignified return to valley, 208 out of 438 temples there had suffered damages in the hands of terrorists and anti-social elements. "The party stands for early passage of the pending bill of temples and shrines", he added. "The VDCs and SPOs, who played a major role in combating terrorism have been ignored while the government is keen to provide all kind of security to separatist leaders", he alleged.

Feroz meets Union Minister for Renewable Energy

Demands solar lights for 24 villages, 274 hamlets under RVE
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21:Minister of State for Science and Technology, Feroz Ahmad Khan, today called on Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah and discussed the progress of renewable energy programmes being implemented in the Jammu and Kashmir. Feroz apprised the Union Minister that Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JKEDA) has electrified 244 villages and 15 hamlets in the state by distributing solar home lights in all the households of these villages. The Minister further informed the Union Minister that the agency has recently been given mandate to construct 2 MW capacity Mini/Micro Hydel Projects in the state. I this regard, the agency has completed the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of 68 sites including 31 in Jammu and 37 in Kashmir divisions, having an aggregate potential of 107.4 MWs. The Minister said that after preparation of the Mini Projects, 16 sites having an approximate capacity of 26 MWs shall be allotted the work on turnkey basis through IPP mode in the current financial year. He said that the DPRs for other 58 sites in the State are also under consideration. The Minister also projected demands to the Union Minister like providing of 26000 solar home lights for 24 villages and 274 hamlets under Remote Village Electrification (RVE) Programme, 40,000 solar home lights for general public of the state and 11000 solar lights for far flung areas besides solar street lights for Gurez & Teetwal areas and 10,000 solar lanterns for remote areas having the population of Gujjars in the state. Feroz elaborated the role of renewable energy in providing energy access to these rural communities and said that it could be the biggest drive for inclusive growth. He said the development of renewable energy can substantially help in reducing consumption of kerosene and diesel. The Minister also strongly supported the need for devising a mechanism for unrestricted flow of renewable energy technologies saying that these could be better utilized in areas of Leh & Kargil. Responding to the demands projected by the Minister of State, the Union Minister, assured full support in materializing all the projects besides setting up of projects based on both grid connected and off grid connected applications for the State.

Vegetable growers of Baramulla deputed for orientation programme

BARAMULLA, FEBRUARY 21: Agriculture Department Baramulla has deputed 20 vegetable growers of Palhalan, Singhpora and Pattan areas of Baramulla district for five days orientation programme to Jammu province today. Sub-Divisional Officer of Agriculture Department flagged off these vegetable growers from Main Bazar Pattan under Vegetable Initiative for Urban Cluster Programme 2012-13. On the occasion, Sub-Divisional Officer said that the objective of the tour is to acquaint the farmers with the latest technology, which is being adopted in different institutions of Jammu division in order to boost the production and the productivity of the vegetable crops. He said that department has launched the newly centrally sponsored schemes in these four villages during 2011-12 to produce the vegetable crops in bulk by using latest scientific methods, so that the produce is being sent to urban areas of Srinagar district. He said the department has distributed Rs. 90.46 lakh as financial assistance among these vegetable growers during 201213 as subsidy for 200 Polygreen houses, 50 Vermicompost Units, 52 Motorized Vending Carts, 38 Hand Driven Vending Carts and 13 Pack Houses.

Vikar inaugurates SPV at KG Polytechnic, Sgr

Stock, supply position reviewed, Various deputations call on Minister
SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 21: Minister for Technical Education (Independent Charge), Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Rural Development & Panchayats, Social Welfare, Power, Hospitality & Protocol, CAPD and Information, Vikar Rasool inaugurated 100 kWp Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Power Plant under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission at Kashmir Government Polytechnic, Gogji Bagh, Srinagar at a cost of Rs. 2.70 crores here today. Interacting with the faculty and students of the college, the Minister said that the Plant has been provided to power up dedicated load in various blocks in the college campus such as essential lab equipments and computers. He said that the Plant will also provide a greener look to the college and will help in saving the environment by off loading the conventional grid to some extent. He said the Plant will also elimi-

Consultative workshop on declining child sex ratio was held at State Health Society Nagrota
JAMMU: One day consultative workshop on declining child sex ratio was held at State Health Society Nagrota in which all major stake holders from Health, Police, NGOs, Social Welfare, Education and Advocates participated. Workshop was organised by National Development Foundation in partnership with Action Aid with active collaboration of National Rural Health Mission. Sh. M K Dwivedi, Commissioner Secretary Health and Medical Education Department was chief guest while it was presided over by DIG police Jammu, Samba, Kathua Range Sh. J P Singh IPS. Dr Yashpal Sharma Mission Director NRHM, J&K welcomed the participants and apprised them about PC&PNDT Act and various Govt. initiatives. He informed the house that since 2013 is announced as the year for SAVE THE GIRL CHILD the recommendations of the workshop will be fed into future action plans on improving girl child sex ratio. Mr Shoeab Khan and Mr Rajiv Khajuria from Action Aid and NDF facilitated an interactive session and presented an overview of present scenario of child sex ratio. Dr B B Sharma and Dr Robindar Khajuria along with four facilitators assisted the groups who interacted on the topics like Challenges in implementation of PC&PNDT Act, Facilitating access to schemes for girl child, Reasons for declining sex ratio and Networking among stake holders. J P Singh, DIG Police while appreciating the efforts assured full support in enforcement of PC&PNDT Act. He also spoke in length with historical references with regard to importance of girl child.

Tarigami condoles demise of Ali Mohammad Lanker

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: CPI (M) State Secretary and MLA Kulgam, Mr. M. Y. Tarigami has expressed grief and sorrow over the demise of Ali Mohammad Lanker, Former, Chairman, J&K Public Service Commission who passed away yesterday at his residence after prolonged illness. In a condolence message, Mr. Tarigami expressed his sympathies with the bereaved family. He also prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul. Minister for Technical Education , Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Rural Development & Panchayats, Social Welfare, Power, Hospitality & Protocol, CAPD and Information, Vikar Rasool inaugurating 100 kWp Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Power Plant at Srinagar. nate the use of fossil fuel by eliminating the use of DG sets during conventional electricity failure. He said the installation of SPV will also help in reducing GHG emissions by 100 tons per year. Later, an officers meeting was held under the chairmanship of Minister for Technical Education (Independent Charge), Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Rural Development & Panchayats, Social Welfare, Power, Hospitality & Protocol, CAPD and Information, Vikar Rasool convened to review law and order situation and to take stock of availability of essential commodities. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Director Health Services, Kashmir, SSP Srinagar, Chief Engineer PDD, Kashmir, Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar and other officers.

MOS Home calls on Governor

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21 - Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce and Home, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today. During their meeting, the Governor and Kichloo discussed varied important matters relating to the internal security management in the State. Matters relating to the speedy development of the industrial sector in the State also came up for discussion during the meeting.

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STATE

Rana exhorts workers to strive for peoples' empowerment

JAMMU FEBRUARY 21Minister for CAPD and Transport, Choudhry Mohammed Ramzan on Thursday exuded confidence that emergence of youth leadership will further reinvigorate National Conference to meet the challenges with fortitude and steer Jammu and Kashmir to a new era of peace, progress, prosperity and development. Addressing party workers during an interactive session, initiated at the behest of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for addressing the problems of workers and the people, at Sher-i-Kashmir Bhavan here this morning, the Minister said the unique blend of experience and burning passion in youth to serve the society as a whole is a good omen for addressing the problems of people and assuaging their aspirations. In this context, the Minister referred to the recent rejig in the council of ministers and the organization, saying this will go a long way in making the government more responsive and organization pro-active to address various issues on administrative, developmental and political fronts. He urged the workers to gear up for translating the vision of Chief Minister into reality by putting in their best in terms of expanding mass contact, identifying issues facing to the people and seeking their solution. Ramzan also referred to, what he termed onerous responsibility, bestowed on Mr Devender Singh Rana and said this is move to engage youth leadership in the development of the state. "We hope young leaders of National Conference will maintain pace with the times for realizing the vision of young Chief Minister", he said, while referring to the endeavours made to steer the State to path of peace, progress and development. Describing initiation of public hearings at the party headquarters as a step in right direction, the Minister said this will empower the workers and make them part of governance process which will ultimately manifest in further strengthening the party. He said the government and the party has to work in tandem so that the workers get a feeling of participation in decision making. He said the organization plays a pivotal role of a bridge between the people and the government, and hoped that the revamped organizational structure will shoulder this responsibility with a sense of determination. The Minister also dwelt on certain measures initiated by his ministry for overall good of the people and said the issue with regard to providing rations as per 2012 population is being taken up with the Centre. Home delivery of LPG in the twin capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu is being ensured by 5th March while the target of 1st May has been set for major towns and June end for the remaining areas. He said consumer affairs are being given focused attention by addressing to the issues of profiteering and black-marketing sternly besides streamlining distribution of essentials at reasonable rates. Speaking on the occasion, Provincial President M Devender Singh Rana described National Conference as a mass movement, evolved in a historic perspective with a definite role of being a representative body of the people living in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. He said the party will not abdicate its responsibility in ensuring the welfare of all and providing equitable opportunities of development and progress to these three distinct regions and their subregions. Rana called upon the workers to work with a missionary zeal in their respective areas and strive for mitigating the problems of people. In this effort, the party leadership will stand like a rock behind them and help in achieving the objective of The Provincial President noted with satisfaction engagement of youth in the party affairs, more than ever before, and exhorted them to carry forward the mission of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in making Jammu and Kashmir a better place to live in. "We have to work tirelessly and single-mindedly to realize this vision", Rana said while emphasizing the need for channelizing the energies of youth in positive direction. Rana assured the workers that he will work as their advocate in pushing forward their demands with regard to development of various areas. He described workers as the face of National Conference at grass roots level and hoped they will come to the expectations of the people. Later, several deputations including J&K SRTC Employees Union led by Raja Munir Ahmad, All J&K Transport Association, J&K Goods Transport Association, All India Sleeper Coach Association, Jammu-Poonch Bus operators, Kerosene Oil dealers besides delegations from Ramban, Banihal, Basholi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Gool-Arnas, Bathindi and Talab Khatikan met the Minister and projected their demands. A deputation of Gujjar and Bakarwals from across the province led by Choudhary Haroon also met the Minister and listed various issues facing to the community. The Minister assured that these would be earnestly looked into. Among those present on the occasion were State Vice Presidents, Mr Rattan Lal Gupta, Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Central Secretary Kr. Rachpal Singh, MLA Smt. Bimla Luthra, ex-legislators, Thakur Kashmira Singh, Dr. Chaman Lal Bhagat, Bhushan Lal Bhat, Provincial President Women Wing, Smt. Vijay Lakshmi Dutta, Provincial President Youth Wing, Surinder Singh Bunty, besides party leaders Chander Mohan Sharma, Ch. Haroon, Sajjad Shaheen, Dharamveer Singh Jamwal, Devender Singh Bindu, Dilshad Begum, Nar Singh, Balwinder Singh, Pinki Bhat, Choudhary Akthar, Pankaj Kohli and others. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Home, Mr Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo will meet the people at Sher-i-Kashmir Bhavan tomorrow, the 22nd February 2013 from 3.30 Pm to 6 PM.

Kichloo for ensuring purchase preference to SSI Coalition government is a security risk : Dr Jitendra
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: Assuring strict implementation of the guidelines for granting purchase preference to small and micro industries, as a marketing support, the Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Home, Tourism and R&B, Sajad Ahmed Kichloo today urged for greater focus on quality control of product adding that there cannot be any compromise in this regard. Speaking to the representative of Small Scale Unit holders, at a high level meeting here today, Kichloo said while it was duty of the government to provide marketing support to the local industry as a promotional measure, it was obligatory for unit holders to produce only standard quality products which was imperative to withstand stiff competition in the open market. "People want quality and cost effective products and the local industry should keep this aspect in mind for making their business thriving and compatible", Kichloo

Says no compromise on quality specification

Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Home, Tourism and R&B, Sajad Ahmed Kichloo speaking to the representative of Small Scale Unit holders at Jammu. added. He said lowering of quality for petty gain was not advisable. The Commissioner/ Secretary PWD (R&B), Tanveer Jehan, Commissioner Secretary Education Farooq Ahmed Faktoo, Secretary Sheep and Animal Husbandry M.A Bukhari, Additional Secretary Industries and Commerce, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed and representative of other concerned departments were present in the meeting. The SSI unit holders were represented by the President Federation of Chamber of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), Er. Zahoor Ahmed, Vice President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Vice President FCIK, Javed Bhat, Ex Chairman FCIK, Jammu, T. S. Rism and J. S. Jamwal. Mr. Kichloo asked the Administrative Secretaries of various departments to ensure that all the laid down guidelines of the cabinet decision regarding 15% purchase preference to the SSI unit holders through Jammu and Kashmir Small Scale Industrial Development Corporation (JKSCOP) are implemented in letter and spirit. He said the unit holders indulging in supplying sub-standard products/materials would be black lists adding that purchase committees in the concerned departments especially Sheep and Animal Husbandry, Health department, Education department (RMSA work) and the Chief Engineers of both Kashmir and Jammu divisions will be asked to ensure purchase preference to local industry while making require purchases. However, there should be no compromise on quality, he added.

JAMMU:With the ruling National Conference party leadership issuing highly provocative statements over the hanging of Afzal Guru and its ruling partner Congress party maintaining a convenient silence, it is more than evident that the NC-Congress coalition government in Jammu & Kashmir has become a security risk and that the two parties are following a dangerous divisive policy with the sole agenda of continuing in power through appeasement of Kashmir separatists. This was stated here today by BJP State Chief Spokesperson & National Executive Member Dr. Jitendra Singh while addressing a press conference convened to release documents spelling out issues of concern and priorities for BJP. The documents had been prepared to mark the BJP "Karyakarta Sammelan" held in Jammu on February 17 and were meant to serve as resource material for party cadre

across the state from district, mandal (block) to booth levels. Pertinent to mention that the Karyakarta Sammelan on Sunday was addressed among others by MP & National General Secretary J.P. Nadda and National General Secretary (Org.) Ram Lal. Besides the concern of security risk posed by coalition government, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the party was worried about mis-governance at all levels and rampant corruption in administration. On the one hand, the government has lost initiative because of its misplaced priorities, on the other hand state high-ups were making unaccounted wealth from unlawful sources. Dr. Jitendra Singh disclosed that at the Karyakarta Sammelan, exclusive papers were read out to highlight the problems of West Pakistan refugees who had been denied citizenship rights and Pak occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK) refugees who were yet to

receive their promised compensation. Referring to the paper prepared on the plight of displaced Kashmiri Pandit families, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that even as these Hindu families awaited a dignified return to valley, 208 out of 438 temples there had suffered damages in the hands of terrorists and anti-social elements. The party stands for early passage of the pending bill of temples and shrines, he added. Dr. Jitendra Singh said the people of the state had been denied their democratic rights because of non-implementation of 73rd and 74th amendments of constitution and delay in delimitation of election constituencies. He said while the youth of the state were victims of unemployment and exploitation, ministers and senior state functionaries were openly indulging in land encroachments. The VDCs and SPOs, who played a major role in combating terrorism have been ignored while the government is keen to pro-

vide all kind of security to separatist leaders. He also referred to neglect of women, farmers and SC/ST. The party has taken up the demand of setting up of campus of Central University and inclusion of Bhoti language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution of India, he added. While Jammu and Ladakh regions were at the receiving end of discrimination, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the common masses in the Kashmir valley were also suffering on account of crumbling health and education infrastructure, traffic chaos and frequent road accidents, slow pace of development and denial of basic amenities. He declared that party leadership announced at Karyakarta Sammelan to take up these issues more vigorously in the coming days, both inside the assembly and on roads. State Press Secretary Balbir Ram Rattan was also present in the press conference.

Sham pays surprise visit to water installations, orders action against absentee
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 21: Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Sham Lal Sharma today said that Government has geared up its men and machinery to meet additional requirement of drinking water during the summer months. "If power scenario remains satisfactory, the PHE department will maintain uninterrupted water supply to the people across the Jammu division during the ensuing summer", said the Minister. Interacting with the media persons after inspecting PHE establishments at Muthi and Bakshi Nagar, the Minister said that instructions have been issued to the department to step up vigil to ensure work culture and punctuality at the grass root level. He said the flying squads have been constituted to conduct surprise checks at the PHE offices to ensure smooth supply of water and also to protect the Govt. assets, adding that these squads will keep close watch on PHE schemes even during the odd hours to get the feedback from the grass root level functionaries and PHE schemes. Expressing satisfaction over the steps initiated by the department to ensure sanitation and renovation of water stations, the Minister said that a discernible change is quite visible in all PHE installations. He said the advisory issued by the administrative department after the introductory meeting has been followed strictly resulting in achieving tangible results. He directed the engineers to ensure proper cleanliness of sump tanks in a scientific way. He also asked the officers to launch a plantation drive to have a healthy environment around the water resources. While inspecting PHE SubDivision Bakshi Nagar, the Minister found Ajay Gupta, Assistant Engineer absent from duty. Besides, performance of AEE Siccar Khajuria was also unsatisfactory. He ordered explanation of both these officers.

NPSU stages protest against PHE ground water Deptt

JAMMU: National Panthers Students Union and Young Panthers on Thursday staged a protest demonstration against PHE ground water Deptt. and shouted slogans against the Chief Engineer and XEN Ground water Deptt. They were alleging large scale irregularities and bungling in the installation of Hand pumps by the Ground water Deptt at various places. Speaking on the occasion Pratap Singh president NPSU said that while the deserving places were deprived, hand pumps were being installed on pick and choose basis at the behest of ruling coalition Ministers and their favorites. He said that several hand pumps were out of order but the ground Water Deptt. was totally indifferent and apathetic and did not take action for their maintenance and upkeep.

Better road network imperative for inclusive growth: Wani

REASI, FEBRUARY 21: Continuing with his series of tours, Minister for R&B Mr. Abdul Majid Wani yesterday visited several areas of District Reasi to review the progress under R&B sector and to get spot appraisal of ground realities regarding road connectivity percentage, nature of works and outreach. Public representatives, Sarpanches and Panches and general public from Reasi, Mahore, Gool, Arnas, Gulabgarh, Thakrakote Dharmari and other remote and hilly areas of Reasi District met the R&B Minister during his extensive tour. He reiterated the resolve of the coalition government to improve the socioeconomic condition of the people in rural and hilly regions of the state by addressing their needs on priority. "Across all regions we want to see that every habitation gets good roads, receive electricity and drinking water, has schools and health centers nearby and is supplied ration and other essential commodities. Our people living in rural and remote hilly areas too should be able to fulfill their dreams and aspirations by getting sufficient opportuni-

Better road connectivity key to tourism promotion: Mir Rs. 8 crore tourism projects underway in Reasi
alignments and take off points as per approved DPR. He said circular has been issued to all executive engineers to take local representatives in confidence while framing a project and before submitting it for approval and sanction. Regarding poor performance shown by contractors on certain important road projects in Reasi District, the Minister said breach of contract agreement would not be tolerated and if deemed necessary, the government would go to the extent of be termination of contracts and blacklisting such contractors and firms who fail to meet the deadlines. The Minister also asked various executing agencies mandated to construct and maintain roads, including BRO, to fully cooperate with District administration to ensure entire road lengths connecting several points are upgraded and improved for the convenient and hassle free movement of the people all along. Highlighting importance of road

Minister for R&B Mr. Abdul Majid Wani along with Minister for Tourism G.A Mir addressig a congregate ties and platforms to voice their opinions and grievances" Wani asserted adding that full support and liberal funding from the Government of India and its leadership is an essential ingredient to achieve such transformation and growth in Jammu and Kashmir rapidly. The Minister was addressing a review meeting at Reasi after attending several public meetings along with Minister for Tourism G.A Mir, MLC Jugal Kishore and MLA Reasi, Baldev Raj. Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Chief Engineers and other officials were also present on the occasion. Maintaining that economy is directly dependent on road connectivity and inclusive development, Mr. Wani said that clear directions have been passed to Chief Engineers to give top priority to areas with least connectivity so that earlier unattended areas get their due share in the economic growth and prosperity already achieved elsewhere in the state. Responding to various grievances brought to his notice during the tour, R&B Minister issued strict directions to engineers on maintaining the road

connectivity for Tourism development, Minister for Tourism G. A. Mir maintained that good road communication network was pre-requisite for any area seeking benefits of and from tourism activities. He said Reasi has immense tourism potential and Government was working to attract significant chunk of 1.25 crore pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishnav Devi and 20 lakh pilgrims visiting Shivkhori to several proposed scenic and picturesque Spots already identified for development as tourist destinations in the coming days. Mir informed that several projects worth Rs 8 crore have been taken in hand for developing tourism related infrastructure in the district. He said Tourism department will also facilitate and support those willing to register their homes as guest houses to the tune of Rs 2 to 2.5 lakhs. He said that tourism department will be develop way side amenities including cafeteria, build view points, VIP suits and parks at several identified spots in the district. He said tourist Huts will also be constructed at Gool, Arnas and Chinka.

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EDITORIAL

Power defaulters Politics in death penalty ruining State O finances

By Rajindar Sachar

ecently the Power Development Recently Department (PDD) of the State came out with a list of defaulters. These defaulters include many big wigs, influential industrial houses and last but not the least the political parties who are responsible to take this State into future. Power Development Department has created an enforcement wing which has been entrusted with finding who the defaulters are. Power is one of the main driving forces which run the State and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that it collects revenue from the consumers commensurate with their power consumption. But this has not happened. It will be pertinent to mention that when the first power project in the State was commissioned it had a capacity of 5 Megawatts. Since then we have increased the power capacity more than two hundred fold. But if the revenue on account of electricity in pre independence days was better than in the present times of so called Awami Raj then there is something seriously amiss. It can be safely construed that after independence the floodgates of financial support were opened by the Centre and we without creating a rational and honest system of accountability in terms of stopping of power pilferage sat pretty safe and did nothing to shore up revenues on account of electricity consumption. Over the years the government has been critical of consumers who have defaulted on payment of electricity bills. The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is also working president of the National Conference, has time and again made critical remarks against the non-paying consumers and those resorting to power theft. "Power in JK is the second cheapest in the country after Sikkim. How about all of you, complaining about load-shedding, start paying market price," Omar, who also holds power portfolio, wrote on micro-blogging site twitter.com in June last year. But will mere tweeting galvanize the government to act. You may give vent to your frustration in the dead of night and with an honest intention but those intentions need to be translated into real action during the day time. It is not good sign to see that among the defaulters include the headquarters of the party who is a part of the current coalition government. What is the message that goes to the people from this is not difficult to surmise. We have power crisis in the State and to make things worse the corruption in the PDD is so brazen that recently many engineers of the PDD have been suspended for erecting sub standard transmission towers meant to transfer power to remote areas of Rajouri and Poonch. Today the sorry state of affairs has come to such a pass that at present the pending electricity arrears against the consumers in all categories have gone up to Rs 1160 crore with government departments emerging as biggest defaulters having an outstanding of Rs 810 crore and the remaining consumers including those in domestic and commercial category have defaulted on around Rs 350 crore. While the PDD purchased electricity worth Rs 3100 crore from different Grids and power stations during 2011-12, it collected Rs 1203 crore only as power revenue against the target of Rs 1600 crore. The government should act fast if it means business. Leave aside the political posturing on account of the coming election. Any laxity to deal with defaulters of all sorts will create economic ruin of the State and that verily was not the choice dream of the founding fathers of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The pilferage of power by ordinary consumers is not small. The tacit connivance of the officials of the PDD who indulge in power pilferage has cost the State crores of rupees. There is a need and that too an urgent one by the government to impress upon all the stakeholders that they will have to pay for the power they use. Meanwhile the government has taken a welcome step to ban incandescent lamps in the State, but will this good step be implemented remains to be seen. There are doubts in the minds of the citizens of this State because any new programme started by the Government has more or less ended in ignominy. Hence the trust deficit that the present Government has accumulated on account of under performance in power sector demands serious attention.

ne had always heard pejorative remarks about politics and morality being distant neighbours, notwithstanding the life long struggle by Gandhiji to have some kind of connect between these. This was demonstrated with a telling effect in the way Central government has dealt with the case of Afzal Guru who was held guilty in the attack on Parliament and sentenced to death by the Supreme Court in 2005. The lower court thereupon fixed October 20, 2006 as date of execution. However Guru's wife filed a mercy petition before the president, who after giving personal hearing to her, asked for some clarifications from the home ministry. Guru had also in 2006 sent a petition through the jail to the president. He never received any reply to this application, but nevertheless was hanged on the morning of February 9, 2013. Excepting for few officials, none including the family of Guru knew of the impending execution. I am personally against the death penalty. But even if we have death penalty, the manner in which hanging has been carried out in this case certainly outrages principles of humanity. I am also concerned with the low in politics where hanging of one person becomes the subject of slanging match between two major political parties the Congress and the BJP. For the last so many years BJP has ad-nauseam made the issue of hanging of Guru as one of its major political strategies and to seek to project the delay by the Congress government as unpatriotic and most mischievously, as a Muslim appeasement question. Congress was

upto now explaining the delay as an administrative question. But it would appear that core group of Congress decided that it was necessary to hang Guru to counter the challenge of BJP, because of the proximity of general elections. Having so decided the UPA government went about Guru's hanging in the vilest of

home minister Shinde telephoned J&K chief minister a couple of days earlier informing him of the decision to hang Guru and asking for his reaction - Omar is stated to have raised no objection. What more proof is required to show complete disregard for well established norms by the government? This hush-hush on the plea of security is

As an epilogue, we should consider that instead of the governments repeating in future such nauseating violation of the human rights, India should follow the course followed by at least 140 countries which have abolished the death penalty and have put a moratorium on any more hangings.
human rights violations. Nowhere in the world, where a modicum of rule of law exists, can the government hang its citizen without informing his family prior to it and allowing them to meet him. Human dignity of Guru was violated by denying him this right. Government's clumsy claim that a speed post was sent from Delhi to Guru's family in J&K was a convoluted explanation. Admittedly letter was received by the family on two days after Guru had been hanged. Can one even imagine the deep permanent scar left on the family, especially the wife and small child? I have no doubt that there was premeditated decision by the home ministry not to allow the family to meet Guru (because this would become public knowledge) and presumably it will naturally result in some demonstrations especially in J&K and Delhi. Admittedly, laughable. No doubt there would have been some demonstrations and protests, but so what-it is a normal feature in democracies, unless it is the government's plea that its security machinery is so incompetent that it could not deal with demonstrations by angry supporters of Guru and that it also apprehended a Navy Seal like expedition done by the US government in Pakistan by the supporters of Guru. Bonafides of the government's intention to hang immediately is also being questioned, considering that the government knew that the Supreme Court was still examining the question that if there is delay of over two years in disposing of the mercy petition, no execution should take place -- in Guru's case delay is over 7 years - was not that enough reason to suspend the hanging of Guru in the mean-

while. The killers of Indira Gandhi were allowed to meet their family members before being hanged. Has the functioning of Central government become so sullied that their own precedents have no relevance? Even now with all this inhuman and defenceless exercise, the Central government is refusing to return the body of Guru to the family. Both in law and morality, the family is entitled to the body of Guru so that it can be buried with all the religious ceremonies at a place of their choosing, so that they can visit the grave like others can. No silly prison rule to refuse the body to the family on the puerile excuse of public disorder can be pleaded in defence. The government in order to conceal its own insensitivity and violation of human rights has got caught in its own web and succeeded in projecting Guru in death larger than in life. The Central government should not muddy the situation any further. It has already allowed itself to be cornered by the BJP in the communal cauldron, inviting a legitimate comment that in the matter of belief in secularism, the difference between BJP and Congress is that between tweedledum and tweedledee - the former being openly antisecular and the later being also the same but concealing it under a thin ice which dissolves at the altar of electoral strategy. As an epilogue, we should consider that instead of the governments repeating in future such nauseating violation of the human rights, India should follow the course followed by at least 140 countries which have abolished the death penalty and have put a moratorium on any more hangings.

This is no way to seek foreign funding

D
By Gautam Mukherjee espite being in urgent need of progress, we lay down insulting and unrealistic conditions. We are supremely confident owing to a conventional hubris that the world will eventually meet our very unreasonable conditions We need foreign investment, not in billions but trillions of US dollars, and can absorb it all. Of course, the bulk of this appetite is for massive infrastructure creation and upgrades, and in the defence and the nuclear power sectors, which are all very capital intensive. What works for us is the size and vitality of our domestic market which keeps our economy going. This is also what makes India attractive to the global market which is largely saturated and stagnating in most of the advanced nations. But not even the most optimistic would-be foreign direct investor, going into brick and mortar businesses here, can expect quick results in India. For most of the last decade and more, the bulk of the foreign money has come into the stock market as Foreign Institutional Investment, because of its relative liquidity. But this is now much diminished, and consequently putting pressure on our foreign exchange reserves as well as the value of the rupee. Our equity markets are not doing well with the economy slowing down. And there are only limited returns possible from our debt investments. Besides, the Government has placed caps on how much foreign money can be investment in the debt instruments too. When it comes to foreign direct investment, the major stumbling block is our own attitude. Despite the opportunities, both of circumstance and timing, staring us in the face, in practically any direction one cares to look, the Indian demand is only partially met at best. While everything is no longer in acute short supply as it was through our socialist years, we are far from the standards expected in a developed country. We are not even up to the level of most other emerging economies, even though we probably have the greatest potential of them all. Basic amenities continue to be in inadequate supply everywhere, and our capital New Delhi, probably better off than any other cities in the country, still suffer from chronic electricity, water, sanitation, security, transport, housing, schooling, medical and other shortages. As for the rest of the country, it is many times worse off. This is despite substantial improvements made over the years, but too gradually to have made more than a dent against the surging demand. And yet we aspire very clearly, if in the abstract, to join the leading rank of nations. Despite being in urgent need of progress, we routinely lay down insulting and unrealisIn the midst of this characteristic bureaucratic obtuseness and political bungling of our prospects, the recent easing of conditions for single-brand retailers wanting to come to India is most encouraging. We now allow 100 per cent foreign ownership of single-brand retail entities with no minimum investment threshold, unlike the 51 per cent allowed in multi-brand after so much difficulty. And most significantly, we no longer insist on 30 per cent of the single-brand once. Many foreign retailers may want local support on their own, either via consultancy, or outsourcing, or through joint ventures, but this is now up to them. Besides, once on the ground, they tend to end up manufacturing and exporting from India in due course, just as the automobile sector does, and source many components locally as the time goes on. This sort of backward integration will happen naturally because it makes good business sense. There are very few items or components that can be economically manufactured in the West today, but innovation and design continues to be a strength. So while things may come into this country made in China and other parts of South Asia to an extent, the lateral benefits that will permeate to the Indian work force will be, first of all, necessary employment, despite a high level of mechanisation, and a raising of standards and methods generally. There will also be a greater sophistication and know-how in merchandising and marketing acquired as a by-product. The consumer will have greater choice and higher quality, very often at competitive prices. The Indian retail market is estimated to be worth over US$450 billion already, and is amongst the fastest growing in the world. We cannot grow it by ourselves quickly to double its size, necessary to meet pent-up demand,but with a gush of FDI we can. IKEA, the world famous Scandinavian furniture maker, wants to bring in some Rs10,000 crore to start 25 stores in multiple locations, along with its own branded cafes and backend infrastructure. IKEA's proposal, with a series of subsequent applications from the company, is awaiting a final nod from the Indian Cabinet. And the biggest single effort which has been passed since, is from French sporting goods reseller Decathlon, one of the biggest in the field, with an investment of Rs700 crore. This has been recently cleared by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board. Others, like Fossil, have won approval to make smaller investments. Several other big players, such as US$3 billion worth leather goods major Coach Inc. from the US, and coveted branded fashion house Balenciaga of Spain, with substantial India plans, are waiting in the wings. So, how quickly can India ramp up the foreign investment in singlebrands?

We now allow 100 per cent foreign ownership of single-brand retail entities with no minimum investment threshold, unlike the 51 per cent allowed in multi-brand after so much difficulty. And most significantly, we no longer insist on 30 per cent of the single-brand sourcing to be done in India from small players. Multi-brand is still largely a non-starter, till we further sweeten the conditions imposed, such as the minimum US$100 million investment requirement. And till the virulent political opposition to it in many quarters abates. Making it possible for each State to let in multi-brand or not as they please tends to spoil the plans the investors may have for the country as a whole.
tic conditions and codicils, as if we are still working for a colonial administration. We behave supremely confident owing to a conventional hubris that the world will meet our unreasonable conditions to gain access to our markets. Instead, most of the world refuses to play the ball, preferring to go to smaller opportunities on more favourable terms, elsewhere. And those who do agree to our rules, happily flout or renege on the conditions they feel were unfairly imposed on them as a price of entry. We are hardly in a position to enforce our will in the international context, and possess very limited diplomatic clout, as is seen often enough. We would, therefore, be much better served if we made ourselves more attractive and welcoming as an investment destination. sourcing to be done in India from small players. Multi-brand is still largely a non-starter, till we further sweeten the conditions imposed, such as the minimum US$100 million investment requirement. And till the virulent political opposition to it in many quarters abates. Making it possible for each State to let in multi-brand or not as they please tends to spoil the plans the investors may have for the country as a whole. At present multi-brand players in India, such as Walmart, Carrefour, Metro, Tesco and Woolworth prefer their wholesale operations, where they are allowed to run cash-and-carry operations without any controversies, and own their enterprise outright. In single-brand however, by not insisting, we may have done ourselves a favour for

READERS SPACE
Thermal power station for the state
Dear Sir, The JKPDC's proposal to seek the assistance of central government in setting up 1000 megawatt thermal power project in the state reflects the dire need in the wake of the incessant power crisis. As of now the state requires 2400 megawatt of power supply but it runs short of 1000 megawatt. So, the thermal power project can definitely address the issue of power supply shortage. Moreover, the state government has also taken initiative to construct hydro-electric projects. But the gestation period of these projects is very long. It is a good

move of the state government to get self-reliance in the power sector. The State is reeling under intense power crisis and in such a situation it becomes the responsibility of the government to have a long term plan in place so that the problem of power shortage is tackled to a large extent. Otherwise given the power scenario in the state it is impossible to hope that the power situation in the State will ever improve. In this context the decision of the government to decide for the thermal power station is a step in right direction. But there is urgent need to have a fast track mechanism in place so that the thermal power project sees the light of the day soon. Vijay Chauhan Research Scholar (Hindi) University of Jammu

Be patient with Direct Cash Transfer Scheme

Sir, This is with reference to "Aadhar travails dog direct cash transfer scheme" (DH, January 2). The much-touted direct cash transfer (DCT) scheme has finally taken off, with 20 districts in six states and three Union Territories being brought under its ambit in the first phase. It takes time for the successful implementation of any scheme scheme. So, let us be patient with them. But the authorities concerned should expedite the task of enrollment of beneficiaries under Aadhaar on a war footing. Ajaz Ul Haq Srinagar

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NATIONAL

Kamal Nath to speak on Kurien issue in RS, SP comes out in defence

NEW DELHI: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath is likely to make a statement Friday in the Rajya Sabha on the controversy surrounding P.J. Kurien, deputy chairman of the upper house, sources said Thursday. According to govt. sources, Kamal Nath met floor leaders of the upper house and tried to convince the Left parties not to make an issue of the allegations against Kurien. Kurien's name has been dragged into the 17-year-old Suryanelli rape case in Kerala and the Left opposition has been demanding a fresh investigation in the case and a debate on the issue in the upper house. The government may agree to a debate, said sources. The Congress has been defending Kurien, saying the Supreme Court had cleared him. Samajwadi Party Thursday came out in defence of embattled Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P J Kurien,

CPI (M) MP alleges police assault during anti-Kurien protest

NEW DELHI: CPI(M) MP M B Rajesh on Thursday alleged that he was assaulted by policemen during a protest here while demanding removal of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P J Kurien for his alleged involvement in the Suryanelli rape case. Rajesh and three others, including another CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP T N Seema, filed the complaint in Parliament Street Police station. Rajesh and his colleagues were marching towards Parliament House as part of the protest organised by DYFI, SFI and AIDWA when they were stopped near Rail Bhavan. The protesters tried to move ahead but were picked up by police. "We were taken into a police vehicle. I was pushed down and kicked inside the van. I was saved by protesters," Rajesh said. Police assured them that they will look into the incident. Asked whether he will file a complaint to Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, the CPI(M) MP said he will consult party leadership before writing to her. Rejecting allegations against him, Kurien had yesterday wrote to MPs saying three police inquiries and two judicial processes have cleared him in the 17year-old Suryanelli rape case.

Campaigning for Nagaland Assembly polls ends today

KOHIMA: Campaigning for the Nagaland Assembly elections will come to an end Thursday evening. Almost all the political parties have roped in their national leaders to campaign for the polls and are trying to reach the maximum voters through rallies and visits. The ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) led by the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is busy in wooing the electorates throughout the state. The Congress Party, which is also leaving no stone unturned in garnering people's support to return to power, is being led by the Congress Legislature Party leader Tokheho. To boost up the party's morale, the Congress has so far brought several prominent and influential central leaders, including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, to campaign here. The ruling NPF is fielding candidates in all the 60 seats while Congress has set up 57 candidates, the NCP 15, BJP 11, JD (U) 3, RJD 2, UNDP one and Independent 39. Altogether there are 188 candidates, including two women aspirants in the fray for the polls to be held on Saturday. In 2008 election, Nagaland Peoples Front won 26 seats; Indian National Congress won 23 seats. And BJP and Independent parties won 2 and 7 seats respectively.

saying a two-decade-old case settled by courts cannot be raked up against a person. "A 17- or 20-year-old case settled by the courts cannot be raked up against a person. Courts have said there is no case against him. He should not step down," SP general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav told reporters here. He said once the courts have settled

the matter, it should not be used against a person. Yadav's defence came a day after Kurien wrote to Rajya Sabha MPs saying the case against him is untrue. Kurien's critics want his removal from the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman for his alleged involvement in the Suryanelli rape case.

Jayalalithaa opposes holding Asian Apology for 'saffron terror' not satisfying: RSS to Shinde Athletics Championships in TN Shinde may have got
blooded killing of 12-year-old Balachandran by the Lankan army, which has also evoked a strong condemnation from various political parties in Tamil Nadu including DMK. The sporting body had been requested to intimate to the Lankan government in the appropriate way the state govt. decision, Jayalalithaa said. "It had been requested that they update us on the follow-up action with copies of the letter sent to Secretaries of Union External Affairs and Sports Ministries. But there has been no information from the Association so far". "Since there has been no favourable response from the Asian Athletics Association, my government will at no cost accept holding the event, in which Sri Lanka is also participating, in Tamil Nadu. Tamils also will never accept it," she said in a statement. The upcoming sporting event will not be conducted by Tamil Nadu govt. in any part of the state and the Association will be asked to hold it elsewhere, she said. She reiterated her charge that the killing of Balachandran was "a grave war-crime which cannot be forgiven." NEW DELHI: The BJP has accepted and even welcomed Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde's carefully worded expression of regret for his "saffron terror" remark, but its ideological mentor, the RSS, says nothing short of an outright apology will do. RSS spokesperson Ram Madhav said on Thursday afternoon, "Shinde's statement in Jaipur was shocking and embarrassing. We are not satisfied with this. He must have apologized earlier." Only a few hours earlier, BJP President Rajnath Singh had said, "We welcome the Home Minister's apology. The BJP does not want any disturbance in the Parliament." Rajnath Singh took over as BJP chief last month, with the blessings of the RSS, and one of his first major tasks was to organise a large-scale protest against the Home Minister for saying at a Congress conclave in Jaipur that the BJP and RSS promote terror at their training camps. Yesterday, Mr Singh led a march of top leaders and party workers in Delhi and even courted arrest briefly, threatening to take the protest to Parliament if Mr Shinde did not apologise. The government then brokered peace with the main opposition party, with Mr Shinde formally voicing regret. Going out of its way to ensure Parliament was not disrupted on the Shinde issue, the Congress even reportedly sent the draft of Mr Shinde's statement to the BJP's Sushma Swaraj for approval. While there seems to be a disconnect between the BJP and RSS in their public stance on Mr Shinde's

it right with 'saffron terror': Congress

NEW DELHI: The Congress Thursday said Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde's regret over his saffron terror remark was not a u-turn, and was meant only to assuage the hurt feelings of a political party and ensure smooth functioning of parliament. "There is no uturn... the home minister's statement (made initially in Jaipur, linking the BJP and RSS with terrorism), may be factually correct but he expressed regret so no political party feels hurt," Congress spokesperson P.C. Chacko said. Shinde Wednesday expressed regret for having made the remark, after the BJP threatened that it would not allow parliament to function until the home minister apologised. Shinde met Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj separately after the Speaker's all-party meeting Wednesday, and expressed regret. While the BJP welcomed the home minister's regret and claimed victory for its stand, its ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) rejected Shinde's statement. "The rejection is not warranted in the light of the statement made by the home minister... he had only said what was already in public domain," Chacko said. Supporting Shinde, Chacko said he could not have made a factually incorrect statement in this regard, being the home minister.

CHENNAI: Amid protests over the alleged brutal killing of slain LTTE chief V Prabhakaran's son, Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa on Thursday called off the 20th Asian Athletics Championships scheduled to be held here in July, saying Lankan players have no place in the state. Jayalalithaa said her govt. had written to the Asian Athletics Association in Singapore seeking that Lankan team be desisted from participation considering the "sentiments" of the people in Tamil Nadu, as the Lankan govt. was "repeatedly acting against the ethnic minorities". The decision comes a day after Jayalalithaa slammed the Lankan govt. over the "inhuman act" of alleged cold

statement, political watchers say it is more likely strategic. For the BJP, the government's conciliatory move offered a way out of being seen as disrupting important legislative work on an issue that had more to do with its political agenda and was not really of national import. Also, its partners in the National Democratic Alliance like the Janata Dal (United) were reportedly uncomfortable about targeting Mr Shinde on an issue linked to the BJP's Hindutva agenda. But the RSS has no such political compulsions. It has identified the relaunch of Hindutva as a key election agenda in a bid to regroup the traditional Hindu votebank of the BJP. In Mr Shinde's comments, the RSS reportedly saw a bid to polarise minority votes and wants to use that to the advantage of the BJP in the run-up to the 2014 general elections.

BJD MP submits 3 Private Members' Bills in Parl

B H U B A N E S WA R : Strongly favouring judicial reforms, senior BJD leader and Lok Sabha MP Baijayant Panda has submitted three Private Members' Bills for consideration of Parliament seeking de-criminalisation of politics. "India is infamous for its understaffed and overworked judiciary, high pendency of cases in the Subordinate and High Courts, abysmally low number of judges and an ineffective public prosecution system," Panda said in a statement. Even though setting the system right will require significant investment and political will in the long term, lasting changes can be effected if the roots of the problem are attacked in the short term, the MP from Kendrapara constituency in Odisha has said. The Bills submitted by him are Representation of People (Amendment) Bill, 2013, Fast Track Courts for Elected Representatives Bill, 2013 and Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill, 2013, the statement said. Noting that one of the most cancerous of these roots is criminalisation of politics, he said as per the report of the Association for Democratic Reforms, 76 of the 543 members elected to the Lok Sabha in 2009 had been charged with serious criminal offences such as murder, rape and dacoity.

Yogita death case: HC rejects closure report, Gadkari in trouble Indian Coast Guard ship
NAGPUR: In a major setback for former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari, a Nagpur court on Thursday rejected the closure report of the CID in the Yogita Thakre murder case. The body of Yogita Thakre was found in a car in the residential compound of Gadkari in Nagpur. The court has taken the contentions raised by Yogita Thakre's father as a private complaint. Thakre, a sevenyear-old girl was found murdered under mysterious circumstances in a car at Gadkari's residence in May 2009. The Nagpur Bench of Mumbai High Court has ordered fresh investigations into the case. The closure report had termed the mysterious death of the girl as an accident. As per the police verhousehold, entered the car and then suffocated to death. The girl's family was not convinced. They alleged that the girl's murder was being covered due to political pressure. They also alleged that the cover up could be at the behest of Gadkari and other politicians. Gadkari was not at home at the time of the incident. While the cops claimed that the girl died due to lack of oxygen in the car, the parents of the girl demanded a CBI probe claiming that the post mortem report had shown that the girl had sustained injuries and that someone had 'smothered' her.

to make visit to Doha

DUBAI: Indian Coast Guard ship, involved in pollution response and fire operations, will make a four-day visit to Doha Port, in a move to further bilateral ties and cooperation between India and Qatar. ICGS Samudra Prahari, the first pollution control vessel not only of the Indian Coast Guard but also in the entire South East Asia will visit from February 23 to 26, 2013, Indian embassy in Doha announced. This indigenously built ship has, among its charter of duties, tasks like preservation, protection and prevention of the seas from marine pollution, Indian embassy said in a statement. It also protects the waters around the country from marine pollution from ships. It has been responding to oil spills up to Tier II levels, the statement said. The Ship, commissioned on October 9, 2010, is equipped with state-of-theart pollution response and control equipment. Samudra Prahari is designed to carry one twin engine ALH/Chetak helicopter, five high speed boats and four water scooters for SAR, Maritime law enforcement, EEZ surveillance and high speed interdictions. During the last two years, it has remained at sea for 5626 hours traversing 56664 nautical miles. In addition to discharging the requirements related to ICG charter of duties, the ship has been involved in four pollution response operations, one fire fighting operation and one SAR operation in Indian waters.

sion, Yogita's body was found in the car when it was opened by policemen deployed outside Gadkari's residence in Mahal in Nagpur. As per them, the girl, who was the daughter of a maidservant employed in a neighbouring

SC sets up team to examine Niira Radia tapes

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday set up a six-member team to examine tapes containing conversation of former corporate lobbyist Niira Radia and others. The team, constituting of five Central Bureau of Investigation officers and one Income Tax officer, has been asked to submit its report within four months. The Supreme Court had on February 13 sought the names of officers of the CBI, Income Tax department and Enforcement Directorate who would scan the transcripts of Radia's telephone intercepts. The investigators would ascertain if there was anything in the transcripts that attracted action under law. The apex court bench of Justice GS Singhvi and Justice SJ Mukhopadhaya had asked Additional Solicitor General Harin Raval to give the names of five CBI officers who would go through the transcripts and prepare subjectwise, ministry-wise and time-wise reports for the consideration of the court. The court had also asked Raval to give names of the officers from the Income Tax department and Enforcement Directorate who would be involved in the exercise. The court had said it would pass its order on setting up of the team on February 21. The court was then hearing an NGO's plea seeking a direction to make the contents of the transcripts public.

Congress finalising team for 2014 polls, indicates Rahul

NEW DELHI: The Congress party is in the process of finalising a team for the 2014 general elections, its vice president Rahul Gandhi indicated Thursday. "There is a lot of talent in the party... I am very excited about it... the only thing is to align it," Gandhi told reporters after the president's address to the joint sitting of the two houses of parliament. Gandhi, who sat in the second last row in the central hall of parliament, shared the bench with Minister of State for Defence Jitendra Singh and Minister of State for Home R.P.N. Singh. During the address, Gandhi was spotted using his blackberry phone several times. After becoming vice president last month, Gandhi has met party office bearers, chief ministers, state unit chiefs and legislative party leaders

TMC workers chop off panchayat employee's ear

KOLKATA: In a shocking incident, activists belonging to CM Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress party on Thursday chopped off the ear of a panchayat employee in West Bengal's Murshidabad district for defying party diktat. As per reports, the employee had failed to report for work yesterday - the first day of the two-day nationwide strike called by trade unions. TMC had issued a diktat asking all government employees to report for work despite the strike call. Today, when the employee arrived for work TMC workers confronted him and when his explanation failed to satisfy them, they attacked him with a dagger. When the employee tried to save himself from being hacked, his ear got chopped off in the process. Reports said the activists were shouting TMC slogans when they entered the panchayat office at Debipur in Murshidabad district. No formal complaint has been lodged so far with the police.

Ishrat fake encounter: CBI arrests Guj police officer

AHMEDABAD: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested IPS officer GL Singhal in connection with the Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case. Ishrat Jahan, and three others, were killed in an encounter on the outskirts of Ahmedabad in June 2004. The police had claimed they were LeT terrorists plotting Gujarat CM Narendra Modi's assassination. GL Singhal, who was an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in 2004, was named in a magisterial report submitted in Nov 2011, which said the police claims were not true.

over the past few weeks to get a feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of the party. The feedback is expected to help Gandhi work out the much-awaited party reshuffle which will throw up a team to face the slew of assembly polls this year culminating in the big fight of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi, who heads the party's coordination panel for the 2014 polls, is expected to give important roles in the party to younger leaders.

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INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

7
Afghan assures Pakistan of handing over Maulvi Faqir Muhammaed
ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan has assured Pakistan that it would hand over senior Pakistani Taliban Commander Maulvi Faqir Muhamamd who was arrested in the Nangarhar province, Foreign Office spokesman Muazzam Khan said on Thursday. During a weekly news briefing, Khan said that Pakistan had submitted a request to the UAE government for the extradition of former OGRA chairman Tauqir Sadiq. The Foreign Office spokesman added that

16 die in Damascus suicide car bombing

US may impose sanctions on Pakistan over Iran gas deal'

WASHINGTON: The US seems annoyed over Pakistan's plans to import Iranian gas to meet its increasing energy needs and may come up with economic sanctions on Islamabad. The report comes when Islamabad has entered an agreement with an Iranian company to build its side of the pipeline to materialize its plan to import gas. The report said the US had conveyed its message to all the diplomats that it will be in their own national interest to refrain from such activities prohibited under the United Nations and the US laws. An Official said that Washington encourages Pakistan to import gas from Turkmenistan as an alternate to meet its ener-

DAMASCUS: At least 16 people were killed and 208 wounded Thursday when a suicide bomber blew up a car packed with explosives at a busy intersection close to the ruling al-Baath Party headquarters in capital Damascus, the state media reported. The blast rocked a crowded intersection, the statemedia and witnesses said. The state-TV aired footage of the blast site,

showing images of destruction and carnage, reported Xinhua. Charred bodies were also seen scattered on burnt concrete as firefighters and paramedics worked feverishly to help the injured to hospitals. After the blast, the authorities arrested another would-be suicide bomber who was driving a car rigged with explosives in the same area. The explosion was felt nearly two km around the

area, shattering glass in nearby buildings and sending ominous smoke plume above the city center. The blast was also followed with heavy gunfire as the authorities cordoned off the area and closed main routes to central Damascus. Blasts and mortar attacks have become increasingly common in Syria as the rebels scaled up their attacks to wobble the regime's grip on power.

gy needs instead of relying on Iran. The US has long been accusing Iran of building nuclear weapons, the claim which Tehran denies and says it is its legal right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purpose.

Japan seeks US help to avoid clash with China

TOKYO: Japan has sought US support for setting up a hot line "as soon as possible" between Tokyo and Beijing to avert an inadvertent clash between Japan's SelfDefense Forces and the Chinese military. In a meeting with US Secretary of Navy Ray Mabus, Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera asked the United States to lobby China to set up a Japan-China maritime safety mechanism, Japanese officials said. Japan has intensified its effort to create such a mechanism after a Chinese frigate directed weapons-targeting radar on a Japanese destroyer last month near a group of islets in the East China Sea at the heart of a bitter bilateral dispute. "Onodera stressed the need to create such a mechanism, eyeing specifically a hot line between defense authorities of the two Asian countries among other measures, as soon as possible," trol last September. Japan's coastguard today

despite US reservations, Pakistan was committed to the gas pipeline project with Iran as this was in the interest of the country. Commenting on the transfer of Gwadar port to a Chinese company, Khan said this was an economic and trade agreement and no other country should have any concerns over it.

Cornell physicist and Nobel winner Richardson dies

from the properties of microscopic matter to astrophysics. Richardson was born in Washington, D.C., earned his bachelors and masters degrees in physics at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and a doctorate at Duke University, where he studied with the physicist Horst Meyer and later served as a trustee. He joined Cornell in 1968 and was named Floyd R. Newman Professor of Physics in 1987. He was also Cornell's first provost for research from 1998 to 2003. Bob Richardson was an extraordinary physicist who used his deep understanding of the scientific enterprise to shape the course of research at Cornell and nationally,'' said Cornell President David Skorton.

Myanmar holds peace talks with ethnic groups

YANGON: Myanmar's government has held peace talks with a federation of ethnic groups to try to resolve issues including the conflict in the northern state of Kachin. The United Nationalities Federal Council, which was formed by about a dozen ethnic minority groups including the Kachin, met government officials in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai. In a brief statement afterwards, they said the "frank and friendly" talks aimed to map out a framework and timeframe for political dialogue, and pledged to hold another round of discussions within two months. Myanmar's quasi-civilian government has reached tentative ceasefires with a number of ethnic rebel groups since taking power in early 2011. But several rounds of talks with the Kachin rebels have failed to reach a breakthrough. The government held fresh talks with the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) in China earlier this month, with both sides agreeing to try to reduce military tensions and continue dialogue. The Kachin, who are fighting for greater autonomy, say any negotiations should also address their demands for more political rights. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced in Kachin state since June 2011, when a 17-year ceasefire between the government and the KIO's armed wing, the Kachin Independence Army, broke down. Fighting escalated in December, and the Myanmar military has used air strikes against the rebels. Last month the government announced a unilateral halt to its offensive but the Kachin have accused the military of flouting the ceasefire.

US Secretary of Navy Ray Mabus and Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera officials said. Mabus said he strongly expects Japan and China to deal with the radar incident in a restrained and moderate manner, the officials said. The incident occurred near the Senkaku Islands, claimed by China which calls them Diaoyu. While the countries' claims conflicted for years, the bilateral relationship has become increasingly tense since Japan purchased part of the islands to bring them under state consaid a Chinese government ship briefly entered territorial waters off Japanese-controlled but disputed islands in the East China Sea. The fishery patrol boat entered the 12-nautical mile zone off Kubajima, one of the Senkaku Islands, the statement said. Mabus said the United States is committed to fulfilling its Japan-US security treaty obligations concerning the Japaneseadministered Senkaku Islands, the officials said. ITHACA: Robert C. Richardson, a Cornell University professor who shared a Nobel Prize for a key discovery in experimental physics, has died. He was 75. Richardson died in Ithaca from complications of a heart attack, Cornell said. He and fellow Cornell researchers David Lee and Douglas Osheroff were awarded the Nobel for 1996 for their 1971 work on low-temperature physics involving the isotope helium-3, which has contributed to research ranging

ECONOMY

Cabinet to take up Vodafone tax issue next week: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI, FEB 21: Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on thursday said that the Cabinet is likely to take a view on the Rs 11,200-crore Vodafone tax case next week. Chidambaram had earlier said the Cabinet would take a final view on the Vodafone tax case and also other similar matters including that of global petroleum giant Shell, after taking into account the opinion of Attorney General G.E. Vahanvati. "As far as Vodafone is concerned, they had written to us proposing conciliation. We have written back saying that yes your request will be considered by the competent authority. So the matter will go to the Cabinet," he had said. of the tax issue. This follows the Finance overseas deals in the Budget for 2013-14 which will be unveiled in the Lok Sabha on February 28 The Vodafone tax liability arose due to amending of the Income Tax Act, 1961, with retrospective effect during the tenure of the then Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee to undo the Supreme Court judgment that had ruled in favor of the company. The Government is working towards a solution based on the recommendations of the Parthasarathi Shome panel which suggested that either the Government withdraw the retrospective tax amendment or waive interest and penalty in case it had to recover the taxes.

Ranjan Mathai to hold talks with US Secy of State

WASHINGTON: Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai will hold talks with US Secretary of State John Kerry on Friday during which discussions on cooperation in key strategic areas and the regional situation is likely to be the focus. Mathai, who arrived on a three-day US trip his first of the Obama Administration's second term would also hold a series of meetings with top American officials on a range of bilateral and regional issues. Prominent among them include Deputy Secretary of State William Burns; Under Secretary of State for Energy, Economic Growth and t h e Environment R o b e r t Hormats. Mathai's meeting with U n d e r Secretary of State for Political Affairs Wendy Sherman would involve regional consultations. He is scheduled to meet Deputy Energy Secretary Daniel Poneman and Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter. He would kick off his day's engagement at the Carnegie Endowment 21 on the topic.

Sensex falls 317 pts to year's low

MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex on thursday suffered the biggest single day fall in nearly nine months by falling over 317 points to year's lowest level on allround selling amid weak global cues. The Sensex tumbled 317.39 points, or 1.62 per cent, to 19,325.36, recording its biggest single day loss since May last year. The index had gained 174.60 in last three sessions. Similarly, the broad-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty fell below 5,900 level by losing 90.80 points, or 1.53 per cent to 5,852.25, after touching the day's low of 5,844.40. Brokers said heavy capital outflow before the budget on fears of imposition of taxes to narrow budget deficit and a weak global trend on renewed concerns that US Federal Reserve's policy-tightening moves to reduce liquidity influenced the market sentiment. "The markets turned distinctively weak today and closed at the lowest levels in 2013" said Dipen Shah, Head of PCG (Private Client Group) Research, Kotak Securities. The US Dow Jones index closed 0.8 per cent down last night while losses at Nasdaq were sharper at 1.55 per cent as foreign investors seen profit booking and taking out money from equities and commodities. The current fall in domestic markets was led by stocks of metal, banks and realty sectors with 29 stocks of the 30-BSE index kitty ending with losses. GAIL India was the lone gainer by adding 0.09 per cent to Rs 338.10.

Vodafone, which is facing a tax liability of Rs 11,200 crore for the purchase of Hutchison Whampoa's stake in its Indian telecom business Hutchison Essar in 2007, had written to the Finance Ministry seeking settlement

Ministry's reminder notice to the UK-telecom giant Vodafone in January for payment of tax. The Government is likely to announce some steps to deal with the complex issue concerning indirect transfer of Indian assets through

NEW DELHI, FEB 21: The Steel Ministry has shut down domestic manufacturers' plea for hiking import duty on the alloy, saying there is no need to initiate such an action right now as imports have not reached an alarming level. "Where is the need to slap import duty further on imports of steel? The imports have not gone up significantly. The fear of the steel makers is unfounded," a steel ministry official said. According to a recent sectoral report by India Ratings and Research, steel imports grew by 24.8 per cent during the January-November period of 2012 to 7 million tonne over the same period of the previous year. The official said that given the small volume of

No need to hike import duty: Steel Ministry TVS Logistics buys 85% stake in Broadband kiosks in UK firm Rico for Rs 100 cr remote areas to go up
imports, which is not more than 6-7 million tonne, any move to make them costlier might prove wrong to others who depend on steel because of limited or zero availability in the country. "We have not requested the Finance Ministry to raise import duty on steel in our Budget proposals for the next fiscal," he said. In the Budget 2012-13, the government enhanced basic customs duty on nonalloy, flat-rolled steel from five per cent earlier to 7.5 per cent. Domestic steel makers have been clamoring for a rise in import duty to rein in 'dumping' of the alloy which has gone up by at least 40 per cent in the first six months of current fiscal. "In order to protect interests of the domestic industry, Budget needs to revisit last year's hike in excise duty and take steps to discourage dumping of products," Tata Steel's Managing Director H M Nerurkar said in his Budget wish-list. Jindal Steel and Power's MD & CEO Ravi Uppal asked the government to take steps for discouraging dumping into India as this would destroy the potential of the domestic steel industry. "No dumping of steel should be allowed in India. The main challenge is China. They produce 750 million tonne steel, and can easily dump it in India. If that happens, then the baby (Indian steel industry) will die in its cradle," he said. CHENNAI, FEB 21: TVS Logistics has acquired an 85 per cent stake in the UK-based Rico Logistics for Rs 100 crore. The acquisition will 'significantly' help TVS Logistics move towards becoming a $1-billion company by 2015, according to its Managing Director R. Dinesh. The acquisition was partly funded through funds raised from KKR, which had last year invested Rs 265 crore in TVS Logistics, and from internal accruals. The stake buy will add service capabilities such as 'last mile rapid response' and new service verticals such as information technology, telecom and medical. The deal was done through the holding company (TVS Logistics, UK), which will retain Rico's 450 employees, he said. This is the third acquisition by TVS Logistics in the UK, after CJ Components in 2004 and Multipart Holdings in 2009. These two companies now function under one brand TVS Supply Chain Solutions. With the acquisition of Rico, the employee strength of TVS Logistics in Europe will exceed 2,000 (direct and indirect). Dinesh said the company would announce smaller acquisitions before March. Both organic and inorganic business will contribute equally to the target of achieving $1-billion revenue. "We have been growing 10-15 per cent in a market which is growing less than 5 per cent. The company is likely to end with revenue of around Rs 2,500 crore this year. This will not be as high as we hoped it to be," he said. HYDERABAD: The Centre's ambitious plan to set up a broadband kiosk in areas where poorer sections of society can access is expected to get a fillip. The Union Minister Killi Kruparani who reviewed the progress said the project being implemented by BSNL will be given a push this year. BSNL launched the project with a target of setting up 30,000 such kiosks in 2009 in Sangli, Maharastra. The WireLine broadband connectivity to rural and remote areas project with provisions to allow triple play-voice, video and data has reached over 20,000 kiosks already. Broadband is increasingly becoming indispensable as it has access to voice, data, video and online applications such as health, education, agriculture, weather, e-commerce and so on. People who can afford to have broadband facility at their homes, have easy access but the poorer sections still do not have any access to Internet, she said. The Centre is committed to 'Right to Broadband' to every citizen of the country, she reiterated. A new centre of the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology Technology (NIELIT) will be set up in Srikakulam. The facility, the first in Andhra Pradesh, will get Rs 50 crore, Kruparani said. NIELIT has 23 centres throughout the country. The main objective of these centres is to train youth in field of information technology by providing short and long-term courses. The centres in Srikakulam will start providing computer training free of cost to the under-privileged.

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MISC

Harbhajan Singh to play his 100th Test in Chennai

The off-spinner will become only the 10th Indian cricketer to achieve the milestone after it was confirmed that he will be in the playing eleven for the series opener. "It's a big game," Harbhajan, who interestingly found fame after wrecking the same team in the famous 2001 series, said.. "(The previous) 99 are gone. Obviously a bit nervous but I am sure I will be fine. I have faced these situations before," the 32year-old spinner added. Reflecting on a career which has had its share of highs and lows, Harbhajan said he has learnt never to give up through the journey.

Indian fencers not allowed to take part under national flag

NEW DELHI: India's junior fencing team will not be able to participate in the Asian Junior & Cadet Championship scheduled to be held in Thailand under national flag owing to IOC's ban on India and this move could also hit the progress of the game as government may stop funding. Following IOC's ban on India in December last year, the International Fencing Federation (FIE) had suspended the national body but the Indian fencers have been allowed to take part in the March 2-11 Asian event in Thailand under the banner of Fencing Confederation of Asia. If the fencers take part in the Asian Junior and Cadet Championships under the FCA banner, it will be the first time in India's sports history to represent an international entity. The fencers are also still uncertain to take part even under the FCA banner as they have to find private sponsors as the government have not responded to their request for financial help with just a week left for the event. Even in normal times, the fencers have been given help on case by case basis as the Fencing Association of India does not get government grant as the sport is now in the 'other sport' category of the ministry. "The international fencing federation has assured the suspension will be lifted but that can happen only by a decision of its Executive Committee and its meeting is coming up only in April and so there will be no lifting of the suspension till that time. "But the FCA has allowed Indian fencers to participate under its banner in Thailand," Fencing Association of India (FAI) secretary general Sanjay Pradhan said. "But the problem is FAI does not have fund because we no longer get government grant as fencing has been placed in other category by sports ministry and we do not have private sponsors. take part in Thailand if they have the individual resources. Among these, eight fencers -- all girls -are from the Sports Authority of India Centre at Kannur in Kerala but they are uncertain about their participation in the Asian event. Their coach Sagar Suresh Lagu said that they had written to SAI and Kerala government for help but yet to get any response. He said each fencer will need Rs 80,00085,000 to take part in If the fencers take part in the Asian Junior and Cadet Championships under the FCA banner, it will be the the Asian event first time in India's sports history to represent an international entity. "SAI had provided "So the fencers will have to spend from their own pock- us the fund in 2010 and 2011 in an Asian event and ets. We have asked the fencers who won medals in last Commonwealth event where my wards had done exceedingNational Junior Championships last year to tell us if they ly well by winning medals. This time also we had written a letter to SAI and state have their own resources and after that we will send their government also for financial help but we have not got any entry for the event," he said. Pradhan said that the Asian body has given extension of response as yet," he said. "We have to leave for the event by February 28 and it's the deadline of sending entry up to the end of this month. He said anybody among the first four-finishing fencers just a week left from now. We are trying to get some money in the last Nationals in Gwalior in the men's and women's from friends and private individuals and don't know how we sections in the three categories of sabre, foil and epee can would go," he said.

CHENNAI: Set to complete a century of Test appearances, veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh on Thursday said he is a "bit nervous" going into the first Test against Australia starting on Friday. With 408 wickets from 99 Tests at an average of 32.27 and a strike-rate of 68.1, Harbhajan has been one of India's most prolific bowlers even though he has been enduring a tough phase for some time.

Ricky Ponting to lead Mumbai Indians in IPL 6

USD 750,000 at stake in IndiaAustralia, Eng-NZ series

NEW DELHI: The Test championship mace is out of their reach but a plump prize purse of USD 750,000 is at stake when India will take on Australia and England clash with New Zealand in their respective series in days ahead. South Africa are assured of top place and a prize money of USD 450,000 at the 1 April cutoff date but a further USD 750,000 will be distributed among the teams finishing second (USD 350,000), third (USD 250,000)and fourth (USD 150,000). Australia are currently ranked third and lead fifth-ranked India by 12 ratings points. However, this could potentially change, depending how the series, beginning tomorrow here, pans out. India can move ahead of Pakistan and finish in fourth position if it wins the series by 10 or better. To move ahead of Australia, India will lead to win all the four Tests of the series. To be guaranteed second position on the table, Australia need to win the series 2-0 or better. If Australia wins 2-0 and England beats New Zealand 3-0, then both Australia and England will be locked at 119 ratings points but Australia will be ranked above England when the ratings are calculated beyond the decimal point. England-New Zealand threeTest series will begin on March 6 in Dunedin.

Kashyap out of top 10, Saina clings to world number 2 rank

NEW DELHI: Ace Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap slipped out of the top-10 bracket but Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal continued to hold on to her second position in the latest World badminton ranking issued on Thursday. The London Olympics quarter-finalist Kashyap (51690), who jumped to the ninth place late last month, held the position for three weeks but he now finds himself at number 11, a loss of two places. Kashyap was not scheduled to play any tournament in the last one month and the players who benefitted from his absence are Vietnam's Tien Minh Nguyen (9) and Deanmark's Jan O Jorgensen (10). Young sensation P V Sindhu, who cracked the top 20 bracket in September last year, was static at world number 16 in the women's ranking. Among other male shuttlers, Ajay Jayaram slipped one place to be at 32nd, while RMV Gurusaidutt gained a position to 37th. Sourabh Verma is the other Indian inside the top 50 at 42nd place.

Legends ... Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting MUMBAI: Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting will replace Harbhajan Singh as captain of the Mumbai Indians for the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League, starting April 3. Ponting, who retired from international cricket late last year, was bought by Mumbai Indians at a base price of $400,000 during the IPL players' auction held in Chennai earlier this month. Mumbai Indians said in a statement that decision to name Ponting as the skipper for the forthcoming season was taken after consultation with its newly-appointed chief mentor Anil Kumble, head coach John Wright and icon player Tendulkar. "Ricky has a lot of experience to lead a competitive and a high-profile side like Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Sachin readily agreed to my suggestion that Mumbai Indians is best served when he leads the batting unburdened by the rigours of captaincy," Kumble said in the statement. On his new role in the Mumbai Indians team, Ponting said: "It's a huge honour and I thank Mrs Ambani and the Mumbai Indians management for the faith they have reposed in my abilities. "Mumbai Indians has the potent combination of Indian and international cricketers and I look forward to leading the team to play to its full potential." Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani added: "On behalf of the Mumbai Indians family, I welcome Ricky Ponting to the team as the leader of the side. Today we have world's two biggest cricketing greats in Sachin and Ricky, and I am sure the duo will be an inspiration for the youngsters in the team. "Sachin will always be an integral and important part of Mumbai Indians' leadership. Ricky will bring in fresh perspective in the team leadership and will have the support of the best cricketing minds like Sachin, Anil and John Wright," she added. Mumbai Indians will start their IPL 2013 campaign on April 4 in Bangalore.

IOA president disagrees with wrestling decision

NEW DELHI: International Olympic Academy (IOA) president Isidoros Kouvelos called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to respect the historical roots of the Olympics and not remove wrestling from the Olympics starting in the 2020 edition. "Wrestling remains inseparable from the concept of the Olympic Games which would be inconceivable without this historic sport in its programme. It is certain, moreover, that there is no future for the Olympic Games if we do not respect its historical roots," Kouvelos wrote in a letter sent to IOC president Jacques Rogge. Kouvelos, who was chief of Greece's London Olympics mission and is general secretary of the International Committee of Mediterranean Games, said he was saddened by the decision last week of the 15-strong IOC Executive Board to recommend to the wider IOC membership the removal of wrestling from the Olympic Games. "Knowing your sensitivity to what is related to the tradition of the Olympics which has survived unchanged for tens of centuries, I'm sure the IOC will listen to the reaction of the sporting world and will reassess this proposal, correcting a big mistake," Kouvelos wrote to Rogge. Kouvelos called on Rogge "not to retreat from the modern voices leading to the detachment of the traditions of the Olympic movement." The International Olympic Academy, established in 1949 by the IOC and assigned its implementation and operation to the Hellenic Olympic Committee, functions as a multicultural interdisciplinary centre that aims at studying, enriching and promoting the Olympic Ideal.

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Cash awards for Hockey World League's top players

NEW DELHI: Title sponsor of the Hockey World league Round II, Hero MotoCorp, on Thursday announced cash awards for the Player of the Tournament and top-scorer of the event, for both men and women. "The Hero Player of the Tournament will be awarded Rs 2,00,000 and the Hero Top Scorer will receive Rs 1,00,000," the organisers said in a statement. The tournament is currently being held at the Major DhyanChand National Stadium and will conclude on February 24. Participating teams: Men: India, Ireland, Bangladesh, China, Oman, Fiji Women: India, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Fiji.

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