Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Jora stresses for holistic integration of tourist facilities at Gulmarg

Kongdoori-Marrishoulder chairlift in Apharwat coming up at Rs. 9 cr

Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, has said that Gulmarg Asia’s premier tourist resort, is the treasure-trove for a traveler. He said upgradation of the tourist related infrastructure at par with international standards to tap fully its tourism potential for achieving the target of attracting more overseas visitors at this destination, are afoot.

Mr. Jora said this during a day-long extensive tour of Gulmarg today while taking stock of various ongoing developmental projects and to assess on spot further development requirements of the tourist destination. The Minister said that Gulmarg has become worlds’ highest lift served ski resort providing a downhill ski run of over 5 kms from a hight of 14000ft in Apharwat range. He said to explore fully the potential of this premier hill resort a chair lift from Kongdoori-Marrishoulder of Apharwat would be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 9 crore adding that construction would be started in July this year. Director Tourism Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Shah, Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Tourism Development Authority, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Lone, Managing Director Cable Car Corporation (CCC), Mr. Farooq Ahmed Khan, General Manager, JKTDC and other senior officers and engineers accompanied the Minister.

The Minister during a Gondola ride to Kangdoori and Apharwat assessed the required development of infrastructure. He said state’s highest altitude cafeteria, a Iglo type hut would be constructed at Apharwat. He said in order to protect the environment of Gulmarg- Kungdoori corridor aforestation work would be also taken up at a cost of Rs. 1 crore and old chairlift would be made functional for visiting tourists to the area.

Giving details about infrastructure expansion programme in the area, the Minister said creation of more infrastructure is needed at Gulmarg and its surrounding tourist resorts. He said 20 rooms budgeted accommodation at a cost of Rs. 4 crore would be constructed besides, the conversion of old Maharaj’s palace into a Convention Centre would be also taken up at a cost of Rs. 2 crore adding that underground cabling of electric net work and improvement of water supply is also on anvil in the area.

Mr. Jora visited old dilapidated ITC 100 room hotel building and took stock of its renovation and repairs. He said that the matter would be taken up with Union Tourism Ministry for its early renovation and repairs.

While taking stock of the functioning of Gondola Cable Car project, the Minister was apprised that the Corporation has earned a revenue of Rs. 5.10 crore from April to June this year. He was informed that about 2 lakh domestic and foreign tourists visited Gulmarg so far this year.

The Minister inspected various under execution and newly completed projects and was briefed that the works amounting over Rs. 7 crore including construction and renovation of huts, cafeterias, way side amenities, development of Parks, lakes and upgradation of Ice skating, ice hockey rink have been completed.

Mr. Jora also inspected the pace of upgradation work of golf course Gulmarg, which is being upgraded to 18 holes involving a cost of Rs. 4.50 crore. He was informed that this worlds’ highest golf course would be ready for Tee of by September this year. He also inspected ski hire shop and was informed that good quality equipments worth Rs. 5 crore are available on hire besides services of trained instructors are at hand for guiding amateur skiers.

During the inspection, the Minister issued instructions for landscaping and face lifting of various spots. He also instructed for taking measures for construction of commercial hotels especially at Dhobhi Ghat tourist resort besides replacing of old furnishing in Apharwat cafeteria.

Seeking the appraisal about the development of Botapathri tourist resort, the Minister was apprised that 5 camping sites at a cost of Rs. 5 crore are being developed in the area.

He emphasized involvement of local people in tourism related activities so that they become equal partners in the venture besides will benefit the states’ economy. He also impressed upon the concerned authorities to ensure timely completion of upgraded works so that top-notch facilities are extended to the tourists.

Jora stresses for holistic integration of tourist facilities at Gulmarg

Kongdoori-Marrishoulder chairlift in Apharwat coming up at Rs. 9 cr

Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, has said that Gulmarg Asia’s premier tourist resort, is the treasure-trove for a traveler. He said upgradation of the tourist related infrastructure at par with international standards to tap fully its tourism potential for achieving the target of attracting more overseas visitors at this destination, are afoot.

Mr. Jora said this during a day-long extensive tour of Gulmarg today while taking stock of various ongoing developmental projects and to assess on spot further development requirements of the tourist destination.

The Minister said that Gulmarg has become worlds’ highest lift served ski resort providing a downhill ski run of over 5 kms from a hight of 14000ft in Apharwat range. He said to explore fully the potential of this premier hill resort a chair lift from Kongdoori-Marrishoulder of Apharwat would be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 9 crore adding that construction would be started in July this year.

Director Tourism Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Shah, Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Tourism Development Authority, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Lone, Managing Director Cable Car Corporation (CCC), Mr. Farooq Ahmed Khan, General Manager, JKTDC and other senior officers and engineers accompanied the Minister.

The Minister during a Gondola ride to Kangdoori and Apharwat assessed the required development of infrastructure. He said state’s highest altitude cafeteria, a Iglo type hut would be constructed at Apharwat. He said in order to protect the environment of Gulmarg- Kungdoori corridor aforestation work would be also taken up at a cost of Rs. 1 crore and old chairlift would be made functional for visiting tourists to the area.

Giving details about infrastructure expansion programme in the area, the Minister said creation of more infrastructure is needed at Gulmarg and its surrounding tourist resorts. He said 20 rooms budgeted accommodation at a cost of Rs. 4 crore would be constructed besides, the conversion of old Maharaj’s palace into a Convention Centre would be also taken up at a cost of Rs. 2 crore adding that underground cabling of electric net work and improvement of water supply is also on anvil in the area.

Mr.Jora visited old dilapidated ITC 100 room hotel building and took stock of its renovation and repairs. He said that the matter would be taken up with Union Tourism Ministry for its early renovation and repairs.

While taking stock of the functioning of Gondola Cable Car project, the Minister was apprised that the Corporation has earned a revenue of Rs. 5.10 crore from April to June this year. He was informed that about 2 lakh domestic and foreign tourists visited Gulmarg so far this year.

The Minister inspected various under execution and newly completed projects and was briefed that the works amounting over Rs. 7 crore including construction and renovation of huts, cafeterias, way side amenities, development of Parks, lakes and upgradation of Ice skating, ice hockey rink have been completed.

Mr. Jora also inspected the pace of upgradation work of golf course Gulmarg, which is being upgraded to 18 holes involving a cost of Rs. 4.50 crore. He was informed that this worlds’ highest golf course would be ready for Tee of by September this year. He also inspected ski hire shop and was informed that good quality equipments worth Rs. 5 crore are available on hire besides services of trained instructors are at hand for guiding amateur skiers.

During the inspection, the Minister issued instructions for landscaping and face lifting of various spots. He also instructed for taking measures for construction of commercial hotels especially at Dhobhi Ghat tourist resort besides replacing of old furnishing in Apharwat cafeteria.

Seeking the appraisal about the development of Botapathri tourist resort, the Minister was apprised that 5 camping sites at a cost of Rs. 5 crore are being developed in the area.

He emphasized involvement of local people in tourism related activities so that they become equal partners in the venture besides will benefit the states’ economy. He also impressed upon the concerned authorities to ensure timely completion of upgraded works so that top-notch facilities are extended to the tourists.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

19th Century Hari Parbat Fort a new window for heritage tourists

Culture travelers will revel J&K’s historical past

Minister for Tourism and Culture Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has stated that the government has gone into overdrive to showcase J&K’s rich heritage so that a new window is opened for the visitors coming to the State. He said measures are afoot to bring all heritage sites on the tourism map of Jammu and Kashmir.

Mr. Jora was speaking during his visit to the majestic Hari Parbat Fort, at Srinagar today.

Expressing his deep love for cross-cultural plurality of the State, Mr. Jora said artistic richness of under-renovation Mubarak Mandi Complex in Jammu, Hari Parbat in Kashmir and Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh are apt indicators of J&K homogeneity.

The Hari Parbat Fort edifice, built by Afghan Governor in 1808, Atta Mohammad Khan, is the only living fort in Kashmir, believed to be 209 years old.

Mr. Jora said several heritage sites, spread across the State, depict cultural richness of the State that could be brought on the canvas of the tourism potential.

Hari Parbat Fort, a state protected monument, is being developed as a heritage site and since 2006, work on its conservation and development has been going on. Out of an estimated Rs 2.13 crore, Rs 1.39 crore has been spent on its development so far.

The conservation work includes restoration of pristine glory of the monument so that it emerges as an epitome of Kashmiri heritage magnificence. Firmly entrenched in the past, the fort can attract large number of domestic as well as international tourists.

Reemphasizing his commitment to link Kashmir’s past with present by persevering heritage sites and working on their upkeep, Mr. Jora said instructions have been issued to concerned authorities to fast-track conservation and protection of historical monuments and sites. He said fillip in state’s tourism economy is embedded in linking it with cultural distinctiveness of the State, which can attract domestic, foreign and Indian diaspora to the State.

The Minister went round the heritage fort and took on-spot-assessment of renovation works. He issued instructions for ensuring completion of remaining works and regular upkeep within and outside the fort premises. He directed for early renovation work of all ponds for harvesting rainwater.

Mr. Jora also issued instructions to the concerned authorities to initiate necessary measures for taking up works like landscaping, development of open space, public facilities, illumination in and outside the fort, installation of light and sound system and upgrdation of approach road from main road to the fort.

Director, Archives and Museum Mr. K. A. Qadri briefed the Minister about various conservation and renovation works taken up on the fort. He apprised the Minister that this fort is spread over an area of 200 kanal with nine watch towers and numerous battlements. He said about 80 per cent conservation work of the fort has been completed and assured the Minister that the remaining work would be completed by the end of September.

The Minister also inspected renovation work of Sultan Dara Shuko Hamam at Muqdoom Sahib. He was apprised by Director Tourism, Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah that the conservation work of this heritage site has been taken up at a cost of Rs 22 lakh and would be completed by the end of this year.

Other senior officers of Archives and Tourism departments also accompanied the Minister.

Omar for pilot projects for harnessing solar energy

J&K can benefit by latest technology in the field’

Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah has called for exploring possibilities of harnessing solar energy in feasible areas to create alternate energy service hubs so that electricity is provided in rural areas. To start with, he directed for formulation of four pilot projects, one each at Jammu, Kashmir, Leh and Kargil for government’s approval.

The Chief Minister was taking a brief about possibilities and advantages of harnessing solar energy in J&K for power generation. The presentation was made by Mr. Tushar Chawla and Mr. Raouf Javid from ELP and Bergen Corporation, here this afternoon.

It was stated that Union Ministry for New and Renewable Energy (MN&RE) will provide financial assistance to the State government for launching the programme. Such projects are also being aided by international agencies, it was added.

The Chief Minister said after assessing the success in the projects of 10 KW each for harnessing solar energy, the programme can be extended for covering all model villages where this system would be used as backup for conventional electric supply service.

Mr. Abdullah said electrification in rural areas, especially in remote pockets and hamlets, the generation of solar energy could prove highly beneficial and economically viable.

It was stated in the meeting that the Union Ministry of N&RE provides assistance to the State government for research and development, demonstration, testing, standardization and industrial promotion in the sector. The Ministry is also subsidizing loan schemes to promote installation of solar water heating system in homes, hotels, hospitals, industrial units and commercial establishments. It is also providing capital subsidy to those who do not avail loan facility.

The Ministry of N&RE is also providing soft loans for manufacturing of solar water heating systems for projects involving improvement in technology and expansion in production facilities.

The meeting was informed that J&K can utilize solar photovoltaic technology for providing electricity for lighting, running water pumps, charging batteries, feeding power to the grid while as solar thermal technology can be utilized for heating water for industrial and domestic usage, heating and cooling of buildings, food processing, cooking, disinfecting and desalinizing water.

In the power-point presentation, the success of 10 KW solar power project launched in village of Ranchi, inhabited by 70 households, was exhibited and the technology including economic involvement in this project was explained in detail.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Continuous hartals have affected individual economy of Kashmir people

Dy CM hosts reception for Union Health Minister

Omar, Azad unanimous in launching golden era of dev in J&K

A grand reception was accorded to Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Mr. Ghulam Nabi Azad at SKICC, here this morning. Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand, Minister for School Education and Public Enterprises, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Industries & Commerce, Labour and Employment & CA&PD, Mr. S. S. Slathia, Deputy Chairman, J&K Legislative Council, S. Arvinder Singh Micky and Mayor, SMC, Mr. Salman Sagar, besides MLAs and MLCs, various Administrative Secretaries and Chairman PSC were present on the occasion.

The reception was organized by Srinagar Municipal Corporation. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Azad assured the Chief Minister that the Central government will extend all possible financial assistance to the State so that J&K realizes its goal of a developed State. Mr. Azad said he was confident that coalition government will carry forward its agenda of good governance. He said it is imperative for the State’s development that spillover projects are completed without further delay so that new projects can be taken in hand. The Union Health Minister said that, as in the past, he would like to work as a bridge between Centre and J&K State so that the targets set for development are achieved, which will bring in progress and prosperity to the State. The Union Health Minister asked people to beware from certain elements who are bent upon destroying the State’s economy, which will impede the development of the State in the long run. He said the State has suffered a lot on account of frequent shutdowns which have weakened the economy and severely dented tourism potential. Praising the role of stalwarts like Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi and Dr. Farooq Abdullah for their stellar role in taking Jammu and Kashmir forward, Mr. Azad said the coalition will work together for the next five-and-a-half-years for ushering in a new era of peace and development. Earlier, welcoming the Union Health Minister, Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah appreciated the role of Mr. Azad in forging J&K towards development during his tenure as Chief Minister of the State. He assured Mr. Azad that the schemes and development works taken up in the State during his tenure would be carried forward and completed. The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has full faith in the ability and experience of Mr. Azad and added that his presence at the Centre was a source of hope and inspiration for the people, as they have high expectations from him for development of the State. Mr. Abdullah said the State government has been assured by Mr. Azad for liberal help in the health sector so that people living in remote and far off areas of the State are extended top-notch health services.

Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, while highlighting the role of Mr. Azad as the Chief Minister, said the creation of new districts, tehsils, sub-districts and university campuses were carved out during his tenure. He said the people will not forget the contribution of Mr. Azad and hoped he will continue to extend full support to the State government headed by Mr. Omar Abdullah in every sector, particularly health.

The breakfast was hosted by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Tara Chand. Commissioner, SMC, Khawaja Farooq Ahmad Renzu coordinated the reception function on the occasion. Among others present on the occasion, included Councilors of SMC, various trader organizations and Chamber of Commerce, besides prominent citizens of the society.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Forest check posts after every 2 km along vulnerable routes

Minister for Forests and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmad on Wednesday said that government has resolutely decided to halt timber smuggling in the state and preserve forest wealth. For the purpose, several more stringent measures are being taken.

The Minister said this during his whirlwind tour of Dood Pathri, Rithen Ring Zabal and Khepora villages of Budgam district.

The minister directed the officers to set up forest check posts in these areas after every 2 kilometres in view of their vulnerability. He also directed the forest officers to frequently visit these areas and intensify vigil along the suspicious smuggling routes.

Mian Altaf enroute interacted with various public deputations and listened to their demands. He assured redressal of their genuine demands. Seeking co-operation of the locals of the area in putting a check on timber smuggling, the Minister sensitized them about the importance of preserving green gold in the state.

The Minister was accompanied by Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Mr. Irshad Ahmad Khan, Chief Conservator of Forest , Kashmir, Mr. Shafat Ahmad, Director Forest Protection Force, Mr. Vinod Ranjan and other senior officers of forest and its allied departments.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Joint teams on final assessment visits of Pahalgam track

To have a final assessment of the critical stretches on the traditional track to Shri Amarnathji Cave Shrine, from Sheshnag to Panchtarni, a high level joint team of the State Administration and the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board surveyed the Mahagunus Top, Wavbal, Poshpathri and the two main camps of Sheshnag and Panchtarni this morning and took stock of the arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Yatra.

Another Team is scheduled to visit the entire traditional track tomorrow morning for making a conclusive recommendation to the Governor and Chairman of the SASB, Mr N N Vohra, to enable him to arrive at a practical decision regarding the commencement of the Yatra after taking into consideration the ground situation and the reports of the District Administration, Anantnag and the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering (JIM). The teams from the JIM and the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) have undertaken extensive recce of the track during the past two weeks.

Sh. B. B. Vyas, Chief Executive Officer, SASB, recognising that significant work on the track had yet to be done by the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), particularly on the snow avalanche portion between Sheshnag and Panchtarni, gave on the spot instructions for engaging additional 300 labourers to supplement the efforts of the PDA in clearing snow on the critical patches within the next two days. He said that two teams of trained mountaineers of theJammu and Kashmir Police would be stationed at Wavbal and Poshpathri, on the two sides of the Mahagunus Top, to provide the much needed assistance to Yatris in shape of mobile rescue squads to provide rescue support, at short notice, whenever required. “Positioning of the rescue teams has been necessitated in view of the critical condition of the frozen snow track,” the CEO added.

The Joint Team took a detailed review of the arrangements and positioning of various essential services at the enroute camps. While 900 tents, 10 shops, 9 huts, 80 toilets and four langars have become functional at Sheshnag, the tenting colony and other utility services have also been put in place at Panchtarni, which include 750 tents, 80 toilets and four langars.

The team impressed upon the Yatra Officers and theCamp Directors of the SASB to have double-fly tents, with appropriate matting, pitched in view of the extreme cold and unpredicted weather conditions.

The Team walked a considerable distance on the snow-clad track and took stock of the clearance work, which had got impeded due to the accumulated snow, intermittent fresh snow and rains during the past two weeks.

The Joint Team also visited the Holy Cave and the Baltal Base Camp to review the arrangements, as the Yatra is progressing on this route for the past nearly one week. Necessary instructions were given to the local officers of the State Administration and the Board for taking effective measures to regulate the Yatra and to monitor the functioning of various service providing departments and organizations. The team appreciated the high level of synergy between various utility departments and the Board.

After having another reconnaissance tomorrow, the Joint Team will submit a final report to the Chairman for taking a decision on starting the Yatra on this route as well. The Yatra commenced from the Baltal route from 17th June.

A Spokesman of the SASB indicated that all necessary measures like regulated pilgrim traffic will be ensured on the Pahalgam route when it is thrown open. The Yatris are being regularly advised to carry adequate woolen clothing, a small umbrella, raincoat, waterproof shoes, torch, a stick, cap, gloves, jacket, woolen socks and trousers. These are essential as the climate is unpredictable, particularly in view of the unprecedented inclement weather in the past two weeks, which can recur any time. The temperature sometimes falls in the area to 5 degree Celsius. For ladies, sari is not a suitable dress for the Yatra. Salwar Kameez, pant-shirt or a track suit will be more comfortable for Yatris of both sexes.

Meanwhile, 10,692 Yatris performed darshan at the Holy Cave Shrine yesterday, while another batch of over 8,000 pilgrims left the Baltal Base camp for the Holy Cave early this morning. A batch of 2,073 Yatris also left Jammu for Baltal this morning. In all, till today morning 67,388 Yatris had done darshan at the Holy Shrine.

Rs 50 cr mega tourism projects for J&K on anvil: Union Secy

Union Secretary of Tourism Mr. S. Banerjee has said that two mega projects would be taken up at a cost of Rs 50 crore for upgradation of tourism infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. In this regard he asked the concerned authorities to prepare the project reports of the tourist destinations where the infrastructure is required to be upgraded.

The funds would be released for early execution of these mega projects soon after receipt of the project reports by the Centre.

Mr. Banerjee, who arrived here today for 3-day tour of the state to take stock of physical and financial achievement registered under tourism sector, being executed under 12 tourism development authorities at a cost of Rs 240 crore, today chaired a high level meeting of officers of tourism department.

The Union Secretary stressed for expediting the upgradation works of tourism related infrastructure taken executed under Prime Ministers Re-construction Programme in the state. He impressed upon the concerned authorities to complete under execution mini and mega projects taken up for the development of tourism infrastructure at various tourist destinations, besides conservation and preservation of heritage sites in the state well in time. He said funds already released by Central government should be utilized in a proper way for the purpose.

Mr. Banerjee said that projects reports for taking up new works under PMs Package should be formulated and submitted to the Union Ministry well in time for its early approval. He assured that central tourism ministry was keen to take all necessary measures for tapping varied tourism potential of the state.

Secretary, State Tourism Department, Mrs Tanvir Jehan gave a power point presentation, detailing the achievements registered under 12 centrally-aided TDAs. She briefed the Union Secretary about various developmental activities being taken by the government for promoting tourism in the state. She said that out of Rs 115.72 crore released under PM’s Package, Rs 61 crore have been expended till date on development of tourism infrastructure in the state.

Mrs. Tanvir Jehan requested Union Secretary for grant of additional funds for publicity campaign, organization of tourism marts and festivals in and outside the country besides promotion of adventure tourism in the state. She also pleaded for early approval of pending projects submitted by State Government to the Union Ministry of Tourism for funding.

Director Tourism Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah, Director Tourism Jammu, Mr. S. M. Sahni, Managing Director JKTDC, Mr. R. A.Qadri, Managing Director Cable Car Project, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Khan, Chief Executive Officers of all development authorities besides senior officers of the department attended the meeting.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Who face action, where is culprit?

Abraham Lincoln has rightly said that if you once forfeit the confidence of your fellow citizens, you can never regain their respect and esteem. It is true that you may fool all of the people some of the time; you can even fool some of the people all of the time; but you can't fool all of the people all of the time.”


The Jammu and Kashmir government has rightly taken appreciable steps on the basis of interim report submitted by Justice Muzaffar Jan Commission and suspended five officials including the former SP of Shopian in much publicized Shopian rape and murder case indicting them for lapses and loss of evidence.

Yet the question rises here is, will this action of the Govt which came so late, that too after the pressure of opposition, separatists, social organizations, NGOs and Human Rights (HR) organization, will help in restoring the confidence of general public? Though, the Commission, which was set up on June one after massive protests rocked the Valley over the May 30 alleged rape and murder of two women in Shopian, Neelofar Jan and her 18-year-old sister-in-law Asiya Jan on the intervening night of May 29 and 30 is yet to submit its final report to the government but as it has mentioned in its interim report that evidence have been either destroyed or lost or because of the negligence of the district administration, including civil, police and doctors involved in the handling of the incident, vital evidences which could have easily helped in nabbing the culprits were destroyed and lost, indication are clear that the real culprits who have committed the crime may go Scot free.

No doubt the action has been taken by the Govt but it is analyzed that the action has not been taken for the crime, it seems that the action has been initiated against these officials for their failure to maintain the law and order situation, which fuelled the public anger against the coalition government particularly the major partner National Conference (NC).

As indicated by the commission in its interim report towards the loss of evidence, than as how it comes that government will punish the real culprit and what would be those grounds and basis.

It is not only Shopian double rape and murder case, there may be many other, unreported such cases of physical exploitation (sans killing) but it was the general public courage which helped in, at-least, shaking the government to setup a Commission to probe.

It is clear that if Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah had not taken personal pain and Home Minister, P Chidambaram had not promised action against the guilty, this heinous crime would have been hushed-up by our able administration as have been done in countless cases in the past.

One more thing to be pointed here is that, to get justice and such crimes probed, in a bid to punish the real culprit, does a common man need the intervention of Chief Minister of the Union Home Minister at every level. If so, than what for these agencies, administration and other departments are?

Whatever may be the reason for Jammu and Kashmir government for going behind this particular incident and assure the general public that government particularly present Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah has been tying to come-up to the expectation of general public, it is high time for the young Omar Abdullah to open all those cases which were left untouched by the previous coalition Govt in which several big wigs were involved.

It is ironic as stated by the Commission, which was appointed by CM Omar Abdullah on June 3, that several officials were accused of mishandling of the investigation and be suspended also FIRs should also be lodged against these officials.

The worst on the part of police and administration as mentioned in the Commission’s interim report that both have been accused of misinforming the Chief Minister (CM) into initially saying the women had drowned. The part played by both police and the administration indicates either their involvement of inefficiency, as the interim report has suggested action against police officials on the charge of 'destroying evidence' and also pointed the 'needle of suspicion' to their involvement in the crime.

Whatever that may be, CM has to go for some drastic initiatives to reform the entire administrative and police setup from the bottom level so in future the transparency could be mentioned and public faith/trust and confidence can remain intact. It is good that departmental action will also be taken against the doctors who conducted the post-mortem as the Commission was of the view that the conduct of the some of the officials, including doctors who conducted the first post mortem on the victims and an official of the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) had led to loss of crucial evidence.

Relevant to mention here that the Commission had grilled the then SP for nearly six hours spread over two days to explain his conduct in the case. He was questioned as to why he did not attend to the case personally when the bodies of the victims were recovered and did not register an FIR in the case. The FSL official was asked to explain why he did not counter-sign the report of the samples taken from the victims prepared by his laboratory, which was mandatory for processing the reports. The official had reportedly not put his signatures on the report for at least two days, thus delaying the investigations. The government transferred the Deputy Commissioner Shopian within three days of the incident while a week later the SP was also transferred. The incident has kept the entire Kashmir Valley on the boil with protests and shutdowns. Due to the Even today the normal life in south Kashmir Shopian town remained paralyzed for the 22nd day Monday with shops and businesses shut and traffic off the roads. Here The young Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah must go through the saying of great present day President of USA, Barack Obama, who has said, “I always believe that ultimately, if people are paying attention, then we get good government and good leadership. And when we get lazy, as a democracy and civically start taking shortcuts, then it results in bad government and politics”.

Governor inaugurates 9th Agricultural Science Congress


Vohra, Omar for blending modern science with traditional approaches to boost agri-production

The Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra and the Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah have emphasized on close coordination between the Agriculture Universities and the extension agencies of the State Government to evolve a task force approach for carrying research from lab to land to boost agriculture production and productivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

They were addressing the Inaugural Session of the three-day 9th Agricultural Science Congress here today. The Congress has been organized by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir, in collaboration with National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, New Delhi. The theme of the Congress is ‘technological and institutional innovations for enhancing agricultural income’.

They said that greater attention also requires to be paid to ensure the timely availability of research outputs which are relevant to the farmers’ needs.

The Governor observed that blending modern science with traditional approaches is imperative to supplement, enhance and harness the advantages of bio-fortification, value addition and post-harvest management processes. He laid stress on ensuring availability of research outputs which are relevant to the specific needs of the farmers.

The Governor focused on the centrality of agriculture and its contribution to the economic growth in the state and the country. He also referred to the challenges faced by this sector, like stagnating yields, decreasing farm lands, unstable market processes, salinization, nutrient imbalances, emergence of drug resistant strains of pests, and gave a clarion call to the agri-scientists to address these issues and re-energize the agriculture sector.

Highlighting the tremendous scope of agriculture based sectors in the context of rural economy in J&K, the Governor said that the immediate challenge is to work out people’s-based strategies to give boost to agriculture and allied activities. He also observed that pooling of resources and sharing technical know-how is significant to achieve the crucial goal of self-sufficiency in agriculture production. He said that horticulture, aromatic and medicinal plants, cut flowers, dairy, poultry, fishery and animal husbandry have vast scope in the State for diversion of agriculture activities, give fillip to economy and generating employment. He exuded confidence that the Agricultural Science Congress, while deliberating on national issues, will also address the challenges and opportunities which are specific to the agriculture sector in J&K.

Wishing fruitful deliberations at the Science Congress, the Governor said that he is looking forward to the recommendations of the Congress, in the form of a vision document, for consideration of the policy planners.

The Governor, who was the Chief Guest at the inaugural function, also presented NAAS awards on the occasion.

Saying that the profitability of agriculture is a must for its growth, the Chief Minister said that there is a need to create greater awareness about the knowledge, skills and techniques to enhance productivity and quality of food-grains so that the farmers earn a respectable income. In this context, he said, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra Scheme launched by Government of India is a step in the right direction.

Mr. Omar said “our State is predominantly an agrarian State. Agriculture and allied fields like horticulture, forestry, animal husbandry, fisheries and sericulture constitute the most important sectors of the economy of the State as they provide livelihood to majority of its population. We are blessed with immense potential for production of fruits, vegetables, flowers, saffron, Kalazeera and a host of medicinal plants”. He said though SKUAST-Kashmir and the government departments have contributed significantly to the increase in the production yet there is great room for improvement. “In fact, the productivity of most of the crops in our State is not among the highest in the country. The State is deficit in foodgrains, vegetables, pulses and oilseeds. I urge the scientists to address this aspect appropriately and help the State to achieve self-sufficiency in production as far as possible”, he said adding that University has recently released a number of crop varieties and successfully launched rice-wheat rotation. “I do hope that we will be able to achieve self-sufficiency in foodgrains in the State soon”, he said.

“Majority of the people in Jammu and Kashmir are non-vegetarians. I am told that 75% of the meat consumed is imported from the neighbouring states. There is, therefore, an obvious need to increase our livestock population substantially to meet the growing demand. The agriculture scientists must take measures to rejuvenate the pasture lands and explore the possibility of transforming the available biomass into animal feeds considering the prolonged winter in most parts of our State”, Mr. Omar said.

The Chief Minister said “we need to develop plant and animal environment control techniques that are affordable. We need to promote green house agriculture in a big way. Post-harvest technology and value addition deserve due attention to derive attractive economic benefits. I am glad that the university has started vocational training in mushroom culture, apiculture, floriculture, poultry production, processed food and feed products so as to promote self-employment opportunities”.

The Chief Minister said that this university is aptly named after the legendary leader Sher-i-Kashmir Jenab Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah who pioneered the agrarian reforms in the State by bringing in the Big Landed Estates Abolition Act in 1950 and later the Agrarian Reforms Act of 1976. “These landmark enactments were without parallel in India as they conferred proprietary rights on the landless tillers of the State almost overnight”, he said adding that the benefits of these acts have not been optimally utilized to boost the agriculture production and productivity. “The key to the growth of agriculture and farming community is to show results on the ground”, he maintained.

The Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR and President National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Dr. Mangala Rai in his address stressed that the need of the hour is to target rainfed, hilly, coastal, tribal and other ecologically sensitive areas for dissemination of improved technologies and development of infrastructure. He also laid emphasis on post-harvest processing and value addition for sustenance of agriculture and enhancing agricultural income.

The Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Anwar Alam in his welcome address gave a resume of the activities of the University and its future plan of action to make it the centre of excellence. He appealed the scientists of the country to postulate technological and institutional innovations that can lead to additional income and employment to rural masses.

The Secretary of the Congress, Dr. A. K. Srivastava also spoke on the occasion. Vote of thanks was presented by the Organizing Secretary of the Agricultural Science Congress, Dr. Shafiq A. Wani. A galaxy of agriculture scientists from across country are participating in this mega event.

Jairam pledges to fund fully Rs. 1,100-cr Dal cleaning, rehabilitation




HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Omar gets Jairam’s assurance on environment protection package from Centre
  2. Rs. 600-cr FMP to be funded by Japan,
  3. Rs. 386-cr Wullar Cleaning Project,
  4. Rs. 250-cr Action Plan for Jhelum cleaning to be fast-tracked’
  5. Dal Cleaning Project would be completed within next two years
  6. Promises to fund entire Rs. 1,100 cr Dal cleaning, rehabilitation project, liberal funding for other projects
  7. State to set up J&K Compulsory Authority to utilize Rs. 181 crore of State’ share for compulsory afforestation project
  8. Rs. 386 crore Wullar project will be expedited
  9. Rs. 250 crore Jhelum Cleaning project to be taken up on Ganga/Yamuna Plan analogy
  10. Promises to protect snow leopard, hangul
  11. Workshop on Himalayan Glacial retreat in mid-September to identify extent of retreat, suggest remedial measures
  12. Rs. 600 crore Japan-funded Forestry Management Project to be expedited for clearance by other Union ministries


At a jam-packed press conference addressed jointly by Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah and Union Minister for Environment and Forest Mr. Jairam Ramesh on the banks of world-famous Dal lake, both the leaders agreed to work proactively so that projects taken up for conservation of lakes and forests in the State are completed in a time-bound manner. Promising Centre’s full support in protecting J&K’s environment and forests., Mr. Ramesh said 40 per cent work of the Rs. 300-crore Dal cleaning project has been accomplished, adding the remainder will be completed within the next two years.

The Union Environment Minister disclosed that the State government will create a State Compulsory Afforestation Management Authority shortly so that J&K is in a position to utilize its share of Rs. 181 crore collected by CAMPA for compulsory afforestation projects.

Giving a detailed overview of the prestigious Dal restoration plan, the Union Environment Minister said that after jointly air surveying the lake with Chief Minister and by boat, he realized that Dal is not only a lake that needs to be cleansed but an eco and a social system that embeds large number of wetlands and nearly 10,000 families. “In Phase I, the Central government has funded entire Rs. 300 crore for cleaning of the project. While visiting the lake, I have observed that large section of the lake have been cleaned. The State government today presented a comprehensive proposal of Rs.1,100 crore to save ecosystem of Dal lake by cleaning and rehabilitation of 10,000 families. We need to find the remaining Rs.800 crore for resettlement and rehabilitation of the Dal dwellers,” he said.

Mr. Ramesh said he and the Chief Minister were in total agreement that those who will be relocated should not only be given plots of land but offered houses as well. “ I have requested the State government to prepare a proposal and I assure that I will take up the matter with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister and the Planning Commission to see that the entire Rs.1,100 crore is funded by the Centre,” he said.

Mr. Ramesh said three STPs have been set up on Dal and added that the State government is procuring heavy duty de-weeding machines from Finland so that the water of the lake is cleaned in express time. He said he has suggested to the Chief Minister that IIT Rourkee, the institute which made the DPR of the Dal-cleaning project in 2000, be requested to see what work has been done and what more needs to be done. “Also J&K State Pollution Control Board provides quarterly reports on progress of the project,” he said, adding that these reports should be made public so that people have an idea of the status of the work.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the government is exploring an extensive programme to upgrade the degraded forest cover of the State. “Extensive portions of our forest area is degraded. We are examining ways and means to implement a project for up-gradation of degraded State forests,” the Chief Minister disclosed, adding that Rs. 181 crore deposited with CAMPA under State’s share would be fully utilized in this direction.

The Union Minister suggested to Chief Minister that the State government should also recommend for a special grant to J&K for implementing the historic Dal project. “The 13th Finance Commission is visiting J&K this week. I suggest the State government recommend for a special grant for implementing the project,” he added.

Expressing concern over dwindling of Wullar lake, which used to be once the largest freshwater lake in Asia, the Union Environment Minister said he attaches highest priority to the restoration of the Wullar lake. “Wullar is the mother of all lakes. The State government has submitted a proposal to Government of India worth Rs.386 crore to conserve the lake. I assure him that my ministry will put full weight to see that the proposal for funding of the project goes through, he said. He said he understands the strategic significance of the lake, adding it deserves its due owing to its large size which is 3½ times that of the Dal Lake.

On the Action Plan for cleaning of river Jhelum, the Union Minister said the plan is under discussion and that he would like to take up the project on the analogy of Ganga and Yamuna cleaning plans. “The estimated cost of the cleaning project is Rs.250 crore which envisages setting up STPs at Anantnag, Baramulla, Sopore and Srinagar,” he said, adding that the Chief Minister had agreed to prepare a detailed project report in this regard.

The Union Minister said he will also taken up with the Union Finance Ministry issue of funding of World Bank projects for integrated watershed development programmes.

On the issue of Forests, Mr. Ramesh said the State government had brought some important projects awaiting clearance from Centre. He said a Forestry Management Project estimated to cost Rs. 600 crore by the Japanese government under the aegis of Japan International Cooperative Agency is pending clearance for two years. “The project has been cleared by Union Environment Ministry. I will take up the issue with Union Finance Ministry so that the project is fast-tracked,” he said.

Mr. Ramesh said that the following Supreme Court decision, a Compulsory Afforestation Management Planning Authority (CAMPA) has been created. “Any promoter whether public or private, who diverts forest land to non-forest land, is required to deposit money for compulsory afforestation,” Mr. Ramesh said.

The Union Minister said the State’s share of Rs.181 crore out of Rs.11,000 crore collected by CAMPA nationwide would be made available for compulsory afforestation to J&K soon. “I have met the Attorny General. We are in the process of facilitating use of CAMPA money for compulsory afforestation. The Chief Minister has agreed to set up State Compulsory Afforestation Authority in the coming few days,” he revealed.

He said the issue of retreating of Himalayan glaciers is a serious one as it links with depleting water levels in the country. He said the Centre is monitoring the situation through the help of satellites and will organize a national-level workshop to present the results of the study. “Geologists of Jammu and Kashmir universities are associated with the study. By mid-September, we will be able to tell the extent of retreat of Himalayan glaciers,” he said, assuring that a mechanism would be worked out to prevent the retreat to a point where water level becomes a problem

On the other issues, Mr. Ramesh said he has assured the Chief Minister that snow leopard and hangul would be protected as these are dear to his heart.

Later, taking queries from media persons, Mr. Ramesh said he was satisfied with the pace of work in the first phase of Dal cleaning project.