Mumbai, June 7: Defence Minister Arune Jaitley is arriving in Srinagar for a visit to farward areas for as-sessing the present security situation on 14th June. He is also scheduled to visit Si-chen. This is the maiden vis-it of new Defence Minister to the state after the formation of union cabinet recently. Meanwhile Mr. Jaitley Sat-urday said that National Security has always been a priority for the Government and balancing the resource constraint and making available everything that is required for national securi-

ty will be the approach of the new Government. He said the major challenge is that

the country needs more and faster procurement.In a brief interaction with the media in Mumbai on the sidelines of the commission-ing of ‘Achook’ and ‘Agrim’ the 5th and 6th in the series 20 fast patrol vessels of the Indian Coast Guard, the Defence Minister said the major challenge in Defense today is the need for greater and faster procurement. On the ailing condition of submarines and helicop-ters of the Armed Forces, Jaitley that there has been a resource constraint and the new government is fully

aware of it. Responding to media queries on a string of mishaps in Indian Navy recently, the minister said that the cause of the problem is being ascertained. Jaitley refused to answer queries re-garding increasing FDI cap in Defence sector by saying that it would be made clear only during the Budget ses-sion of Parliament which is one month away.On the issue of the Navy de-ciding to scrap the heritage IMS Vikrant, he said that the matter is in court and the Court has said that

See Jaitley on pg 11

Srinagar, June 07: Police on Saturday detained seven persons in connection with an attack on a policeman guard-ing Pakherpora shrine in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. At the same time three policemen have been placed under suspension after initial inquiry established that all of them were found absent from duty.Official sources told GNS that Special

Operation Group (SOG) Pakherpora picked up seven suspected persons for questioning. However, sources de-clined to disclose their identity.Meanwhile, police authorities sus-pended three cops Shakeel Ahmad, Mohammad Shafi who were on unau-thorized leave and Mohammad Altaf who had gone to market, all the

See Pakherpora on pg 11

Srinagar, June 7 : Expressing con-cern over the rapidly degrading moral values in the society, Hurriyat Con-ference (M) Chairman and Ameer of Mutehda-Majlis-e-Ulema, Mirwaiz Dr. Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq Sat-urday said that when the people placed at responsible positions in the govern-ment system and social order indulge in acts of moral turpitude it becomes all the more difficult for a campaign of social reform to bear fruit.Terming the recent newspaper reports regarding the molestation of a nurse by the head of Health department and other officers as an extreme case of moral bankruptcy and a cause of se-rious concern, Mirwaiz stated that it was unfortunate and disturbing that officials of government departments were found indulging in acts of im-

moral behavior with their female sub-ordinates. He stated that peo-ple feel extremely disgusted after learning about this incident, in which all moral and human val-

ues were transgressed. He said earlier a Cabinet Minister was found involved in assaulting the chastity of a woman doctor of Health Department and now the Director of the Department is al-leged to have molested a nurse of the department.Mirwaiz stated that it was unfortunate that the police and administration in-stead of arresting and punishing the guilty involved in such acts were ac-tually protecting them and providing them security. Mirwaiz stated that thousands of Kashmiri women were working in government departments and such incidents have rendered them vulnerable regarding the safety and security of their dignity, and hon-or.Demanding a transparent

See Mirwaiz on pg 11

CMYK

CMYK

CMYK

SUNDAY 08 June | 2014 | 09 Shaban, 1435 AH | PAGES 12| VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 158| RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)Pen For Justice Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&Khttp://www.zabarwantimes.com

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07:42PM 15.2 C 30.7 C

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

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Possibility of thundershower in the afternoon. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 28°C & 15°C

On Edit Page

See More On Pg 09

Noise pollution-A ticking time–bomb

Kashmir, the land of Sufis and Saints, is known for peace and tranquillity since centuries together. It was treated as an ideal place for medication and spiritual attainment. With the passage of time, it has lost its pristine glory and its tranquillity has been replaced by noise pollution. Constant excessive displeasing noise is disrupting the ac-tivities of human beings. The unwant-ed sound released into environment causes adverse effect on the health of human beings, birds and animals. The sound beyond permitted decibels can lead to permanent loss of hearing. As per studies, fifty million people are

Mirwaiz demands transparent inquiry in alleged molestation case

Defence Minister to arrive for a visit of farward

areas on 14th June

Javdekar files Rajya Sabha nomination

Girl sets herself ablaze, dies in hospital

Man injured in Ganderbal Mishap

New Delhi, June 07: Union Min-ister Prakash Javdekar on Satur-day filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh, which goes to polls on 19th June. The Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Environment and Forests (Independent Charge), Javadekar filed papers from Mandla con-stituency, which fell vacant after Phaggan Singh Kulaste, a former Rajya Sabha member, was elected to Lok Sabha from the seat

SeeJavdekar on pg 11

Srinagar, June 7: In an attempt to end her life, a 22 year old girl (name with held) and resident of Abiguzar, Srinagar allegedly set herself ablaze at her home. She was shifted to SMHS hospital Sri-nagar where she succumbed to her burn injuries.According to a statement issued to KNS, Srinagar Police has regis-tered a case FIR number 42/2014 under section 309 RPC and in-vestigation is on. The body of de-ceased girl was hand over to her relatives for last rites. (KNS)

Srinagar, June 7 : A Tavera ve-hicle bearing registration num-ber JK01C-9843 and Maruti 800 bearing registration number JK06-2784 collided at NHW Thune Kangan, Ganderbal, resulting in injuries to Ghulam Nabi Yatoo resident of Yachama. The injured was shifted to Hospital for treat-ment. Kangan Police has regis-tered a case in this regard. (KNS)

Pakherpora Aftermath

CMYK

Father-Son, 2 cops among 7 injured in Anantnag blast

The maiden visit aimed to assess the security situation in J&K

Srinagar, June 7: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced serious concern over the increase in crime against women in the workplace and around in the society and called for serious soci-etal and the government intervention to counter the disturbing situation.In a statement issued to KNS, the party Chief Spokesperson, Naeem Akhtar, said the reports in media about the women being getting harassed has become a common thing now in a society which has always held its women folk in high es-teem. “The reports are highly disturbing and

See Akhter on pg 11

Srinagar, Jun 7 (KNS): Admitting that the state is witnessing the PDP wave at present and the party is going to make the next government here, senior Congress leader Gulam Ra-sool Kar Saturday said that Congress must approach Mufti to save face in JK;s political scenario.Kar while talking to KNS stated that the way PDP swept all the three seats of valley during the recently held LS polls vindicates that people now have identified themselves with the poli-cies of the party. “It is for sure that PDP is going to make the next govern-

ment in the state and the state Con-gress must forge an alliance with the party so that its image could be saved in state’s political world,” said a 93 year old Congress veteran who also was the member of the state constit-uent assembly.Explaining the reasons for Congress’s debacle in the state, Kar remarked that ahead of polls in the state, there used to be the traditional in the state Congress that election on the party level was carried so that promising candidates could be

See PDP on pg 11

Kar wants Congress to join hands with PDP PDP voices concern over increase in crime against women

Srinagar, Jun 7: Former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief and Vajpayee’s advisor on Kashmir A S Dulat Satur-day remarked that Kash-mir’s separatist camp must remain optimistic about the settlement of Kashmir issue during the Modi led government and that they will be taken on board once the talks on this vexed issue are ini-tiated.Commenting over Mir-waiz’s recent statement wherein he had cautioned that Kashmir is being po-larized on religious lines, Dulat told KNS that the Hurriyat (M) chief might have expressed his ap-prehensions and that no such effort shall be taken by the Government of In-dia (GOI) that could trig-ger any disruption in the

himaliyan region.Dulat maintained that talks over the Kashmir resolution have not be started yet and that the same are expected in

the near future. “It is just the beginning of the new government at New Del-hi. It would be too early to say when the talks shall be started but yes we can say that the same are ex-pected to be witnessed soon,” said the former RAW chief, adding that Kashmir’s pro-freedom camp will possibly taken on board once the process of talks are started.“Why not. The separatists should be taken on board. They should be taken on board. The confidence building measures and the related aspects will be keenly looked into,” Dulat said. When asked about the reports over the possible return of Pandits and the various dimen-sions related to the issue, he stated

See Dulat on pg 11

Suresh Raina to train Kashmiri cricket aspirants

Separatists to be taken on board during Kashmir talks: Dulat

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IGP Kashmir inaugurates Blood donation camp in DPL Srinagar

Brazil has to overcome diffi-culties before FIFA World Cup

Modi Govt. to revive UPA’s unfinished Dev. Porjects

7 persons detained, 3 cops suspended

Admits PDP wave in the state, says party will sweep LA polls

‘Social reform campaign has become more challenging’

Srinagar, June 7 : In a press statement issued from Maqbool Manzil Sgr, spokesman of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) has strongly condemned the attacks on women folk especially female employees by some officers and higher of-ficials. According to a statement issued to KNS, a JKLF spokesman said that this phenomenon is in-creasing day by day and the situation is very alarm-ing and worrisome. Referring to the

SeeJKLF on pg 11

JKLF condemns attacks on women folk, female employees

‘Remain hopeful for Kashmir resolution during Modi’s tenure’

Srinagar, June 07: Seven persons in-cluding two policemen were injured due to bursting of sumo vehicle en-gine in South Kashmir's Anantnag district on Saturday. A police official told GNS that seven persons received injuries in the inci-dent that took place at Anantnag town today morning.He said that all the injured were

passersby when the engine of vehicle bearing registration number JK03-9668 burst out suddenly.The injured persons have been iden-tified as Assistant Sub Inspector –ASI of police Ghulam Mohammad, Con-stable Hilal Ahmad and five civilians Gulam Qadir Wagay of Khanabal, Nizar Ahmad Sofi his son

See Blast on pg 11

Srinagar, June 07: (GNS) Six persons including four cops were injured after a police party was fired upon by the militants near Bungam area in south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Saturday.A senior police official told GNS that a special police team from District Police Lines was on a routine check to a mi-nority guard picket in Bungam village of Shopian when militants opened heavy fire upon the team resulting in injuries to four policemen and two pedestrians.“Three policemen Shabir Ahmad, Vikas Pandith, Zahoor Ahmad received bullet injuries in legs and another cop Mehraj-ud-Din received bullet in abdomen have been shifted to Srinagar hospital”, he said. “Two civilians Mohammad Amin and Bashir Ahmad Hajam both residents of Bungam were injured in this incident have been shifted to Bone and Joint hospital Srinagar”. Soon after the

See Shopian on pg 11

Militants appear in Shopian

Attack police injuring 6, including 4 cops

Home Minister stresses need for Integrated plan

to combat NaxalismLucknow, June 07: A com-prehensive integrated action plan was required to solve problems like

naxalism, separatism, ter-rorism and his ministry was working on it, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday in Lucknow."Whether it's naxalism, separatism or terrorism, a

comprehensive integrated action plan is needed and my ministry has started work on it. We accept the challenge and based on this efforts will be made to take balanced action," Rajnath, who is on his first visit to his parliamentary constituency after being sworn in as Home Minis-ter, said while addressing workers. He said that efforts which were required to tackle big problems before the coun-try was not taken in the past. "The integrated action plan could not be chalked out. We have started work on it and we have faith to achieve success," he said. The Union Minister said that the party has decided to work as per the

See Naxalism on pg 11

Happenings unfortunate, indicators of societal rot: Akhtar

Srinagar, Jun 7: A known Indian cricketer Suresh Raina Saturday while acknowledging the talent of Kashmiri cricketers promised that he will personally train and guide them in the near future.According to the KNS correspon-dent, Suresh Raina was invited by Kashmir’s renowned business man Adil Nissar to his hometown South Kashmir. Reports maintained that Raina arrived in South Kashmir’s Anchi door area of South Kashmir. Reports informed that Wazvan was served to Raina with people in large numbers meeting him and welcoming him.There were also large number of Kashmir’s cricketers who met Raina and discussed the problems faced by them while playing the game loved by millions across the world. Raina, according to the reports was much impressed with the zeal of Kashmiris for playing cricket. The Indian cricket star while promising personal training stated that he will guide them and inform them about the technicalities involved while playing

cricket. Raina is an Indian cricketer from Rainawari, Srinagar. He is an attacking left-handed mid-dle-order batsman and an occa-sional off-spin bowler. He plays for Uttar Pradesh in all forms of domestic cricket and is the vice-captain of Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League. He has also captained the Indian cricket team and is the second youngest player to captain India. He is only Indian to score a century in all three formats of the game. He is also the highest run-getter and has taken the most catches in the IPL.Raina made his ODI debut in

2005 against Sri Lanka at the age of 18. Howev-er, his Test debut came only five years later, in 2010, against the same opposition. He scored a hundred on his Test debut (120). He holds the record for having played the most ODIs before making Test debut. He was a part of India's World Cup winning team of 2011. (KNS)

11 Srinagar, Sunday 08 June 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik Legal Advisor: Syed Reyaz Hussain RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844

Jaitley

Dulat

Naxalism

Javdekar

Shopian

Pakherpora

Blast

PDP

Mirwaiz

JKLF

Akhterthe Warship should be maintained. He also said that the Government will keep in view expectations the people while deciding on this issue.Jaitley also visited Western Naval Command in Mumbai and reviewed its operational preparedness. The Defence Minister accompanied by Chief of Naval Staff also saw the salvaged INS Sindhurakshak that had sunk last year in August killing eighteen sailors.

that GOI is actively working for the safe return of the pundits who left valley during the early hours of the armed rebellion in Kashmir. “There must be consen-sus over the safe return of the pundits to valley. It would be really a great opportunity for the peace to get prevailed in Kashmir.”Dulat said that the recent statement of chairman Hur-riyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq that the state is being ‘polarized’ could be an apprehension and that no such measure shall ever be taken by New Delhi. “There are the media reports going all over wherein analysis of the future is presented to the masses. Mirwaiz might have expressed his worry and that is it. ”Dulat served as the Head of Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) from 1999 to 2000. On superannuation, he was re-employed as advisor on Kashmir in the Prime Minister’s Office from January 2001 to May 2004. He joined the Indian Police Service (Rajasthan Cadre) in 1965 and after a short stint of couple of years in the state; he was seconded to the Ministry of Home Affairs (Intelligence Bureau) in March 1969. Dulat served in the security service for 30 years and First Secretary in the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu (1976-80). He is a member of the National Security Ad-visory Board. (KNS)

thinking of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Va-jpayee that a friend could be changed, but not a neigh-bour. "After independence it was for the first time that heads of SAACRC countries were invited for swearing in ceremony. By doing this we have given a clear mes-sage to have a cordial relation with them. Normally it takes one to one and a half years. We have talks with the SAARC heads and they want to maintain good re-lationship with India," he said. Rajnath said that the people have given the BJP man-date and they have expectations as well. "The person who has become the PM Narendra Modi has a dynamic and imaginative personality. I am sure that in the next five years the government will prove true on the expectations of the people," he said. The Union Minister said that the government was not celebrating as it was shocked with the untimely death of Gopinath Munde. "He was a popular leader and we planned to project him as the Chief Minister in Maharashtra assembly elections," he said. Regarding development of his parliamentary constitu-ency Lucknow, Rajnath said that an action plan would be chalked out in 100 days responsibility of which has been given to former vice-chairman of Lucknow De-velopment Authority Diwaker Tripathi. Earlier the Union Minister said that the newly elected NDA government was committed to rid the country of current problems, but the system which has paralysed could not be changed in one or two years and there was a need to give time for this. "I want to assure that as far as security of the entire country is concerned then whatever the government is required to do, we will do that. All efforts will be made to rid the problems through which the country is passing," Rajnath said. "But it is also true that we cannot do this work in one, one and a half or two years. The system has become so paralysed in the previous regime that it will take time to set it right. Give us time. You have seen that compa-rably BJP ruled states are doing better than others," he added. Rajnath expressed his gratitude to the people of Luc-know for making him victorious with huge margin."I express gratitude to the people and party workers. I express gratitude to youths, our mothers and sisters," he said. Earlier, the Union Minister was given a grand wel-come on his arrival at Chaudhary Charan Singh air-port in Lucknow.

incident, police and army visited the area and launched searches in the village to nab the attack-ers. (GNS)

men were supposed to be on duty along with the cop Shabir Ahmad who was injured after assailants at-tacked him last evening.Regarding the incident, sources said, the unknown militants at around 08:10 pm Friday barged inside guard room at Pakherpora and attacked Constable Shabir Ahmad with an iron rod on his head.Later they opened trunk and decamped with 03 SLR with 03 Magzines and 60 rounds, sources added. (GNS)

Umer Sofi, Sajad Ahmad Dar both residents of Push-war and Mohammad Sultan Bhat of Anzullah.While all the injured were rushed to hospital, police is investigating the cause of incident, he added. An eyewitness told GNS that the sound of bursting the ve-hicle engine created panic among the people. He said that the shopkeepers have seen fleeing towards the safer areas.Meanwhile, the team of police experts rushed to the area and taken the samples from the spot for investi-gations, the eyewitness added. (GNS)

fielded in the polls. “Now that chapter has been closed down and the results are before all of us and even my contributions for the party were undermined as I was

not consulted ahead of the LS polls.” Kar predicted that the state Congress will witness the likewise debacle during the forthcoming polls if the remedial measures are not taken at an earliest. “The state Congress must forge an alliance with the PDP so that its face could somehow be saved during the ongoing critical times.” (KNS)

these not only call for serious intervention at the so-cietal level but stringent action by the government,” he added.Naeem said the happenings are very serious and indi-cators of deep societal rot and the government apathy in stopping the crime has further added to the vul-nerability of women folk. Referring to the last year’s high profile molestation case involving Shabir Khan, former health minister, he said by showing a clear bias in the case the government has encouraged oth-ers to follow the trend. “Had government acted seri-ously in Shabir Khan Case a clear message would had gone to the people which would have surely helped to minimize such offences at workplaces,” said Naeem and added the government effort in the case was to shield the accused instead of ensuring justice.He said whether in workplaces, educational insti-tutions, public transport system or other places our women are feeling deeply insecure and vulnerable and there are no preventive measures in place to ensure their security. Citing examples of the newly married girl who was found killed in South Kashmir last month and chopping off the ear of an unfortu-nate girl by stalkers in the same area few days back, Naeem said such incidents have given rise to crisis like situation in the society. “Molestation of the stu-dent by her school teacher in Yaripora area of Kul-gam district is the latest addition into the crisis.”He said the government must take serious note of the complaint about an alleged assault on a lady em-ployee in Health Department and the matter must be probed in transparent and fair-manner. He said our women have suffered immensely for the last more than 20 years and now and the unfortunate incidents taking place almost every day have become a source of constant worry and shame. (KNS)

alleged molestation of a female nurse by director heath and some other officers, spokesman said that if this kind of brazenness is not stopped immediately the situation of anarchy will increase in the society and the chastity and honor of every mother, sister and daughter will be at stake. Spokesman said that people are watching these condemnable acts with keenness and are looking whether the culprits who belong to high society get punishment or not. If rulers and their police are not able to bring these culprits to justice, people will have every right to think that police as in other cases has and is siding with the influential not the poor and un-influential victims. Spokesman said that this may also confirm that our society as a whole has lost every moral and human in-stinct and un-influential have only to suffer without any remedy. (KNS)

inquiry into the incident, Mirwaiz stated that the social reform campaign has become more challeng-ing because the government missionary which is supposed to protect the society from criminal and inhuman activities was itself indulging in violence and immoral acts against the people epically the weaker and vulnerable sections like women. Earli-er, while laying the foundation stone of a Masjid at Mashali Mohalla Hawal, Mirwaiz called for a vig-orous social campaign to get rid of the social evils plaguing the society at large. He stated that immo-rality, drug addiction, anti-social activities were being promoted in the society by some vested inter-est elements adding, it was important that people from all walks of life join hands to get the society rid of these evils. (KNS)

in the recently-concluded general elections. He arrived in Bhopal from New Delhi Saturday morning and reached the assembly after paying a visit to the Madhya Pradesh BJP office. The state has 11 Rajya Sabha seats. The minister filed papers before principal secretary and returning officer for the election, B D Israni. Javdekar filed two sets of nomination papers and Narottam Mishra, G S Shejwar and Sartaj Singh proposed him. Javdekar said he has a long association with MP as he used to visit here as a President of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha.

Srinagar, June 07: Inspector General of Police A.G Mir today inaugurated a blood donation camp at District Police Lines, Srinagar.A G Mir and his spouse Dr. Shabnam Ara were the first to donate blood, followed by SSP Srinagar Sh. Amit Kumar and all city SPs, besides a number of

police jawans also donated blood at the camp.The voluntary blood donation camp was organized by Blood Bank of Bone and Joint hospital, Srinagar in collaboration J&K police. During the camp besides, Inspector General of Police Sh. A.G Mir and his better half, SSP Srinagar Sh. Amit Kumar, SP

South Sh. Imtiaz Ismail, SP West Shalinder Kumar, SP Hazratbal Sh. Rayees Ahmad, SP North Sh. Tahir Salim, SDPO M. R Gunj Mir Ejaz and a number of police Jawans donated their blood.The blood donated at the camp will be provided to the needy trauma patients at the Bone & Joints Hospital. (GNS)

IGP Kashmir inaugurates Blood donation camp in DPL Srinagar

BSF jawan lynched, man killed in clashes near Indo-Bangla border

NC calls for stern action, investigation against Officers of Health Department

Tripura , June 07: A BSF jawan was lynched after a man was killed in firing by border guards as they came under attack from villagers while chasing smug-glers close to the Indo-Bangla-desh border in Tripura, but the villagers gave a different account of the events. When the BSF personnel were chasing smugglers last night, villagers of South Ramnagar at-tacked the border guards with lathis and choppers, BSF DIG B S Rawat said on Saturday. The BSF personnel initially fired

in the air to disperse the mob and then opened fire in self defence in which a villager, Ismail Mia, was killed and ten persons were injured in the village two kilo-metres from the border, the DIG said. "Our jawans opened fire in self defence in which one villager died and ten others were injured. In a retaliatory attack, one BSF jawan, Sandeep Kumar, was lynched by the local inhabitants," Rawat said. Superintendent of Police (Police Control) Uttam Bhowmick said

"Ismail Mia died of bullet inju-ries. So it is presumed that he was killing in firing by the BSF." Asked about the lynching of the BSF man, Bhowmick said "He had head injuries and cut marks on his body." West Tripura District Magistrate Abhishek Singh, who visited the area, said a magisteri-al level inquiry was ordered into the incident. "The result would be known af-ter the inquiry is over. Stern ac-tion would be taken if anybody is found guilty. No one will be spared," Singh said.

Srinagar June 7: National Conference has taken strong note of the allegations leveled against some se-nior officers of the Health Department against whom a complaint of harassment and sexual assault was made by a Staff Nurse posted in Primary Health Center at Pahalgam and asked the government to ensure a free and fair investigation into the matter.According to a statement issued to KNS, while wel-coming the timely and swift registration of a case against the accused, NC Spokesman Junaid Azim Mattu has said that there was absolutely no doubt that the State Government would ensure a time-bound probe and initiate strict disciplinary action against those found guilty. The NC Spokesman also welcomed the strong notice taken by the Chairper-son of the State Women's Commission about this incident.Mattu said the State Government had demonstrated its commitment to the safety of women employees in both public and private sectors by ensuring ad-herence to the Vishaka Guidelines that lay down guidelines to be followed by establishments in deal-

ing with complaints about sexual harassment at the workplace. "While the State Government has ensured compliance to a significant extent, we are sure that more systems will be put in place to deal with such complaints effectively and fairly", Mattu added.Mattu said that the National Conference constitu-tion includes as its integral part, the non-negotiable right of women to dignity, respect and honor and the party continues to hold these values supreme without any exceptions or compromises.Reiterating that there could be no tolerance for in-cidents of this nature, the NC Spokesman said that no civilized society could tolerate the harassment of women and that the State Government should en-sure speedy trial and a transparent probe into this incident. "We demand that the trial be transparent and time-bound and free of any pressures or in-fluences so that justice could not only be done but also seen to be done so that the faith of the people in the integrity of the justice system is upheld", Mattu said. (KNS)

Police distributes Cricket Kits

Organizes T-20 cricket tourney in Awantipora

Srinagar, June 7 : In order to boost the sports ability among the youth, Awantipora Police under the Civic Action Programme today distributed cricket kits among eleven teams of Awantipora area, besides have organized a cricket T-20 tournament in which 32 teams of the area are participating.According to a police statement issued to KNS, to bridge the gap between police and Public and to promote sports activities in the area, a function was today held at Sports stadium Charligund, Awantipo-ra, wherein cricket kits were distributed among the eleven cricket teams. The function was chaired by SP Awantipora Abdul WaheedSpeaking on the occasion SP Awantipora said that state police is committed to boost the sports talent among youth across the valley. In this regard, many different sports events are being organized by state police in different parts of the valley. He said that Awantipora Police has started T-20 Cricket tourna-ment which is being played in Sports stadium Char-ligund, Awantipora in which 32 teams of Awantipora area are participating. The function was attended by large number of the respectable citizens, sports loving persons and the captains and teams managers of eleven cricket teams of Awantipora area. (KNS)

LOST I have lost my 5th Pass certificate somewhere. Now I have applied for its duplicate. Anybody having ob-jection in this regard may file the same in the office of Govt. Middle School, Namtahal within 7 days after that no objection will be entertained.

Mohammad Ramzan Bhat,D/o Gh. Ahmd Bhat,

R/o Namtahal BN

A

OFFICE OF THE WARDENKASTORBA GANDHI BALIKA VIDYALAYA

[K.G.B.L.] JEEWAN SAHIB LADHOO

Ref.No: KGBV/JS/14 Dated: 07-06-2014

QuotationQuotations are invited from request-ed suppliers/Dealers for the supply of various articles for the school. The details alongwith specifications of the same can be had from the of-fice of the undersigned on any work-ing day. The quotations hould reach the office of the undersigned within 07 days from the publications of this notice. Sd/-Warden Govt. KGBVDIPK NO. 1999 Jewan Sahib (Ladhoo) Pampre

Promotions in FSLSrinagar, June 7 (KNS): The Departmental Promo-tion Committee of Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) which met under the chairmanship of Director FSL Inayatullah Khan promoted Labora-tory Assistants to Assistant Scientific officers and other promotions have also taken place in clerical cadre.According to Mr Khan in last two and half years at least six DPC,s have been conducted and officials were promoted to the level of Assistant Scientific Officers, sr. store keeper, Senior Assistants and senior photographer. (KNS)

Bear injures one person in BandiporaSrinagar, June 7 (KNS): A bear attacked and injured Jugi Paswal son of Jan Mohammad Paswal resident of Piswal Patikudara, in the forest area of Piswal Gali, falling in the jurisdiction of Police post Sumlar Bandipora. The injured was shifted to Sub District Hospital Bandipora for treatment. (KNS)

SRINAGAR | SUNDAY, JUNE | 08 | 2014Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS

Take a break from your routine, Libra. You might feel like you’re leading an army into battle as you strive for new adven-tures and conquer new realms. Make sure you take a bit of time out today to stop and let your troops rest. You deserve a little rest yourself. Use this moment of stillness to form your plan of attack so you’re sure about how to proceed.

The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Scorpio. You may not realize how much you cripple your-self by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. Try not to give so much of your attention to things that really don’t matter much. Petty jealousy and gossip about other people’s lives are es-pecially irrelevant in your world.

Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you’re capable of handling every-thing, Sagittarius. Take note that the strongest mule on the trail usually ends up carrying the most weight. Your emotions are more sensitive than you may think, and certainly more than you demonstrate to others. Be honest about the way you feel and not just the way you think.

Things should flow well for you today with very little ef-fort on your part, Capricorn. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it’s an indication that the person you’re arguing with isn’t nec-essarily the right person to deal with or confide in. Emotional issues are likely to be the hardest ones to overcome, but this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You have the ability to work through these like a pro.

This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Aquarius. There’s no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress. This is your time to enjoy the moment. Don’t tax your mind by overanalyzing everything that comes your way. Go with the flow and have a great time regardless of what you end up doing.

Your sensual nature is heightened, Pisces, and you’ll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. Soothe your soul by letting yourself slip into situations that give you the emotional freedom to do or say whatever comes to mind. Life should be like a love poem written by a great master. Accept the good energy that comes your way.

Your sixth sense is right on target, Virgo, so trust your instincts today. You’re likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. Stay close to those things that resonate strongly with your morals. The answer is in front of you; you don’t have to search too far afield in order to find it.

Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspo-ken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connec-tion with those closest to you.

This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.

A selfish attitude on your part won’t be tolerated today, re-gardless of the circumstances, Gemini. Don’t make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don’t notice others’ hurt feelings. People are likely to be extra sensitive today, so be careful about trying to impose your will on someone who really wants nothing more than an ear to talk to and a shoulder to cry on.

You could find the hardest person to face is you, Cancer. You tend toward introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into self-recrimination. You could analyze the important people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you. As you continually strive for perfection, give yourself proper credit. Do something nice for yourself today.

Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Leo. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. If you begin to doubt your work, you may fall down a spiral of creative blockage. Don’t get into the habit of constantly judging the quality or outcome of your work. Give yourself free rein to open up and explore whatever comes to mind.

VIJAYAWADA: Union urban de-velopment minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said the NDA is committed to revive all the devel-opment projects, which were left unfinished by the previous UPA government.

“The government will revive all the development projects to the tune of Rs 5 lakh crore which were left incomplete by the UPA govern-ment. In addition, the government has also to revise the national high-ways expansion (project) and the Prime Minister’s Grameen Sadak Yojana,” he said addressing BJP workers here.

“Our primary objective is to ful-fil the ambitions and aspirations of the people who gave us full major-ity,” he said.

Naidu, who is on his maiden

visit to the city after taking over as the Union Minister said, NDA is committed to bring back the black money stashed in foreign banks.

Speaking on the successor states after Andhra Pradesh’s bifurcation, he said both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are equal in the eyes of the Union.

“There would not be any dis-crimination. There is a need for overall development and the Cen-tre will support all states for their development,” he said adding the NDA is prepared to fulfil all the promises made by UPA at the time of passing the Telangana Bill.

Union urban development min-ister M Venkaiah Naidu (right) with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He said some political parties were unnecessarily creating prob-

lems for political gains on Polav-aram issue. The minister said that the Centre has promulgated an ordinance merging some villages and mandals of Telangana with Seemandhra in a bid to deal with resettlement and rehabilitation those displaced by the Polavaram project.

The ordinance, cleared by the Union Cabinet in the last week of May, aims to facilitate smooth resettlement and rehabilitation on part of the multipurpose proj-ect. He appealed to other politi-cal parties not to create divisions among Telugu people in the name of Polavaram. BJP state president and MP K Haribabu and other parliament member G Ganga Raju and four BJP MLAs attended the programme.

14th Finance Commission leaves for Delhi after

interactions with stakeholders of State

SRINAGAR, JUNE 7: The 14th Finance Commission led by Chair-man Dr. Y.V. Reddy, which was on three day visit of the State today left for Delhi.The Members of the Commission included Prof.Abhi-jit Sen, Member Planning Commission of India, Ms. SushmaNath, Former Finance Secretary, Dr. M. Govind Rao, Director National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, besides, Dr.SudiptoMundle, Former Acting Chairman of National Statistical CommissionDuring the three day visit of the State, the Commission held de-tailed deliberations with State Government, representatives of Rural, Urban Local Bodies, Trade &Industries Association, political parties and other stakeholders for fixing the award to the State.The state government submitted its memorandum and made presentations on the finances of the State Government, its pro-jections for the award period and gave its views on some of the terms of reference of the commission.The Chairman 14th Finance Commission Dr. Y. V. Reddy appreci-ated the state government for ensuring holistic development on all fronts in the State. He assured that the demands projected by the State Government before the Commission would be consid-ered to enable it to have quantum jump in the course of growth and development.

Modi govt to ‘revive’ UPA’s unfinished development projects

SRINAGAR, JUNE 7: Assert-ing that the youth play pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said they should come forward and exhibit a participatory role in carrying forward the devel-opmental schemes and welfares programme initiated by the Gov-ernment for their welfare.

The Minister was address-ing a huge gathering of youth at Sumbal Sonawari in North Kash-mir.

The Minister for Higher Edu-cation, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone was also present on the oc-casion.

The gathering was also at-tended by local representatives, prominent citizens and senior officers of the district admin-istration. Mr. Sagar said that the government is committed for ensuring better future for the youth of the State and in this regard several schemes like SKEWPY, Udaan and Himayat have been launched for provid-ing them ample opportunities

for technically equipping them-selves, so that they can start their own entrepreneurial units and also absorbed in various multi-national companies within and outside the State.

Referring to the recent ini-tiatives undertaken by the gov-ernment for the welfare of the youth, the Minister said that they should not get carried away by the false and vicious propa-ganda launched by certain po-

litical parties for their vested interests but should, instead, strengthen the hands of the government by involving them-selves in the implementation of these welfare programmes.Min-ister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone, in his address, said that youth are pride and precious assets of nation and the government has launched several welfare programmes for shaping their future so that they

earn their livelihood with digni-ty and honour. He asked youth to extend their cooperation to the government and take active role in day to day affairs of develop-mental activities.

Mr. Lone said that the govern-ment led by Chief Minister Omar Abdulla has given utmost prior-ity to the aspirations of youth and has directed for addressing the same on priority.

On the occasion, the local

representatives also highlighted various issues pertaining to de-velopment and welfare of youth of Bandipora and appealed the Ministers for addressing them on priority. They also appreci-ated the role and contributions of Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone for socio-economic develop-ment of Sonawari Constituency by implementing number of de-velopment and welfare schemes in the area.

Sagar asks youth for participatory roleYouth pride of nation: Lone

Mumbai Metro begins operations on today

Shri Amarnathji Yatra-2014CEO: Ensure hassle-free issue of Health Certificates

MUMBAI: Mumbai will enter a world-class era of commuting with the long anticipated inauguration of the Mumbai Metro on Sunday, a top official said here Saturday.

This is India’s first metro railway project implemented on a public-pri-vate partnership model by a consor-tium headed by RInfra since 2007, at a total cost of around Rs 4,300 crore.

Accordingly, from Sunday the 11.4km long Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar east-west corridor with 12 elevated stations en route will become operational, prov-ing to be a boon for Mumbaikars, espe-cially with monsoon around the corner.

The Metro service will start 5.30am and continue till midnight with a to-tal of 16 rakes deployed on the sector, serving the glamour and IT centres of Versova and the business and manu-facturing areas of Ghatkopar at a speed of 80kmph.Each of the colourful rakes with four coaches will have a capacity of

around 375 commuters or around 1,500 commuters per service, zooming above the city between Versova to Ghatkopar.Daily, around 600,000 commuters are expected to travel by the Mumbai Met-ro at affordable ticket rates.

“There will be 250 services both ways in airconditioned comfort, at in-tervals of around four minutes, covering the distance between Versova to Ghat-kopar within 21 minutes,” he added.

Presently, the east-west corridor between Versova-Ghatkopar has no suburban train link and is serviced by either BEST public buses or cabs, tak-ing around 90-120 minutes, depending on traffic density and other factors. The 12 stations are conveniently located, starting with Versova, DN Nagar, Azad Nagar, Andheri, Western Express High-way (WEH), Chakala, Airport Road, Marol Naka, Saki Naka, Subhash Nagar, Asalpha Road and terminating at Ghat-kopar.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 7: Being seriously concerned about certain press reports about the difficulties being faced by the intending pilgrims in accessing Government Doc-tors/ Institutes nominated by the State Governments to issue the mandatory Com-pulsory Health Certificates (CHCs), the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shri Amar-nathji Shrine Board, Sh. R.K Gupta, has addressed Health Secretaries of all the States and UTs in the country and once again requested them to ensure that the intending Yatris do not face any inconvenience whatsoever in obtaining Compulsory Health Certificates without which they cannot proceed to apply for Yatra Registration.

The CEO has urged the Health Secretaries to consider nominating more Doctors, wherever problems are being faced by pilgrims because the number of doctors who are authorized to issue Compulsory Health Certificates is inadequate or where doc-tors have been transferred out and no replacements have since been made.On the directions of the Supreme Court in 2012, the Shrine Board has put in place a mecha-nism to ensure that every intending Yatri procures a Compulsory Health Certificate, issued by a Doctor/ Medical Institute authorized to do so by the State Government, before he proceeds to obtain a Yatra Permit to undertake the pilgrimage.

Power shut down on June 08SRINAGAR, JUNE 07: According to Power Controller, Power Development Depart-

ment, Kashmir, in order to carry out urgent repairs/preventive maintenance works, power supply from the 132/33 Grid Station Bemina line shall be affected on June 08, 2014 from 9 a.m to 3 p.m.Meanwhile, in another communication from the PDD, in order to enable the Sewerage and Drainage Division to construct the drainage which is passing near one of the 33 KV frame of SH Pora, power supply from the 33 KV of SH Pora line shall be affected on June 08, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.The power sup-ply to the areas fed from the lines shall remain affected on the said date and time.

KVIB organizes daylong seminar at Baramulla

756 Units under PMEGP established in the districtBARAMULLA, JUNE 07:

J&KKhadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) Baramulla today organized a daylong Seminar at Town Hall KunzerTangmarg.

The J&K Secretary, KVIB Mir Afrozpresided over the func-tion. He said that J&K KVIB is one of the implementing agencies of PMEGP in the State, besides nod-al agency of National level. He urged upon the youth for avail-ing the benefits of the schemes launched for establishing own income generating units, adding that they have to become em-ployment generator not employ-ment seekers.

Among others Deputy Chief Executive Officer, District Lead Bank Officer, District Officer of KVIB, Students of Degree College Tangmarg and prominent citi-zens of the area participated.

Divisional Officer, KVIB Rashid Ahmad Qadrihighlighted the schemes launched by the

KVIB for the benefits of the peo-ple especially for unemployed educated youth of the district informed that as many as 756 units with financial assistant of Rs. 2728.90 lakhs were set up in the district with 35 per cent subsidy to the tune of Rs. 955.73 lakhs under Prime Minister Em-ployment Generated Programme (PMEGP) was also provided to educated unemployed youth.

It was given out on the occasion that the people especially youth had shown keen interest in various self employment schemes. The unemployed educated youth were urged to come forward and take the benefits of these schemes launched by the gov-ernment, besides the officers were asked to make all out ef-forts and work with zeal and zest for the benefits of the people especially unemployed educated youth.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINION

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer

No power-No development

The deteriorating elec-tricity supply even in summer has posed a question mark on the very capabilities of the

coalition Govt. which is in power but seemingly without power to coup up with the power situation. What a pity, for the people of the state who do not get full day power supply even when all the rivers are running to their capacity and the state Govt. is cutting a sorry figure in this essential sector. From the Chief Minister down to the Chief Engineer, everybody in the Govt. does not fall short of words to claim that they have done tremen-dous things to better the electric-ity generation and every summer they repeat their announcements that the supply will be for better this winter. But whether a winter or a summer the consumers in the state have to suffer despite the fact that they pay through their nose as far as the electricity tar-iff is concerned. It is a matter of shock that the load shedding con-tinues in cities and towns unabat-ed and as far as villages are con-cerned they hardly see the bulbs twinkle. Most of the villages in the valley are plunged into darkness often and there are villages which do not get the electric current for weeks together. One fails to un-derstand as to what is the Govt. doing and what are our planners advising it to improve the power scenario. Everybody knows that the State has a potential of pro-ducing over 25000 MWs of pow-er if it is able to harness and tap its water wealth. But it is the poor planning and visionless political leadership which has been ignor-ing this vital sector. Perhaps J&K is the only state where the power cuts range from 8 to 18 hours a day even in urban and semi ur-ban areas. It is unfortunate that if projects are started at all, they are endlessly delayed and some of them in completed within the stipulated time. When these proj-ects get delayed naturally, the cost of construction also increases with the result they are never tak-en to anywhere near completion for decades. It is sad that if cen-tral Govt. constructs any project, it never returns the same back to the state and this state never takes their full benefits. Every politi-cian has demanded the return of these projects but nobody listens. The development of the state can never become a reality unless it achieves self sufficiency in pow-er sector and for that meticulous planning, vision and a lot of mon-ey is needed.

Empowering Mentally Ill to Live with Dignity

Mental health rep-resents a critical indicator of human development, serves as a key determinant

of well-being, quality of life and is the basis for social stability. So-cial and economic impact of poor mental health is pervasive and far reaching, leading to poverty, high unemployment rates, poor educa-tional and health outcomes, among others. There is a need for a wider recognition of mental and emotion-al well-being as a core indicator of human development, and it is nec-essary to integrate a mental health and psychosocial perspective into all development and humanitarian policies, programmes.Persons with mental and psycho-social disabilities represent a sig-nificant proportion of the world’s population. One in four people globally experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Almost one million people die due to sui-cide every year and depression is ranked third in the global burden of disease, and is projected to rank first in 2030. In India prevalence of mental disorders is 6-7% for com-mon mental disorders and 1-2% for severe mental disorders. Treatment gap for severe mental disorders is approximately 50% and in case of Common mental Disorders it is over 90%.With such a magnitude of mental disorders it becomes neces-sary to promote mental health ser-vices for the well being of general population, in addition to provide treatment for mental illnesses.Persons with mental and psycho-social disabilities often face stigma and discrimination due to wide-ly held misconceptions about the causes and nature of mental health conditions. Persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities also experience high levels of physical abuse. They encounter restrictions in their exercise of socio-politi-co-economic rights in the majority

of countries, largely due to the false assumption that they are not able to carry out their responsibilities, manage their own affairs and make decisions about their lives.Though mental health conditions are one of the leading causes of dis-ability, persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities often lack resources to maintain basic living standards. Furthermore, they are one of the most neglected and dis-criminated groups in development policies and programmes. Integra-tion of mental health into devel-opment efforts is a cost effective pro-poor strategy. There are cost effective treatments available for most mental illnesses, and effective treatment is associated with reduc-tions in overall health-care costs. Child development, education, health, social welfare policies and programmes must integrate mental and psychosocial aspects.In India, National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) was started in 1982 with the objectives to en-sure availability and accessibility of minimum mental health care for all, to encourage mental health knowledge and skills and to pro-mote community participation in mental health service develop-ment and to stimulate self-help in the community. Gradually, the approach of mental health care services has shifted from hospital based care (institutional) to com-munity based mental health care, as majority of mental disorders do not require hospitalization and can be managed at community level. During IX five year plan, District Mental Health Programme was initiated (1996) and at present DMHP is covering 123 districts in 30 States and UTs. In addition to ear-ly identification and treatment of mentally ill, District Mental Health Programme has now incorporated promotive and preventive activities for positive mental health which includes; School Mental Health ser-

vices; College Counselling services; work place stress management and suicide prevention services. Efforts are being made to improve human resource availability in mental health sector so that mentally ill gets required attention and persons having a predilection for mentally illness can get good advice, coun-selling at the initial stages itself. Components of NHMP are being brought under the overall umbrella of National Rural Health Mission so that the States are able to plan requirements concerning Mental Health services as part of the re-spective project plans. Rs.623.45 crore has been approved as XI plan outlay (upto 2012) for the National Mental Health Programme.

However, recognizing the difficul-ties/stigma faced by mentally ill persons the Government is in the process of providing a humane, patient centric legal framework for mentally ill patients. The pro-posed Mental Health Care bill can be a ‘Game changer’ in the life of millions of mentally ill persons who were often victims of inhu-man and degrading treatment, abuse and ridicule, both at the community level and at health care delivery establishments.The proposed Mental Health Care bill is significant in terms of Rights’ Approach that is being adopted to give pre-eminence to the preferences and opinion of the mentally ill person to a major ex-tent. Provisions like ‘Advance Di-rective’ empowers every person to make directive on how he wishes to be cared and treated for mental illness or not. Other salient provi-sions are;· A mentally ill person admit-ted to a mental health establish-ment shall have a right to receive or refuse visitors, phone calls, mail,etc· A mentally ill person has a right to have treatment in his lo-

cality / residence and can prefer only minimum treatment/care at mental health establishments. This is to ensure that the patient is allowed to live in, be part of and not be segregated from society to the extent possible· Every patient has a right to protection from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment and the mental health establishment shall be safe, clean with facilities for education, recreation, religious practices.· No patient shall be forced to undertake work and subject to compulsory shaving of head and wearing of uniforms.· Mental illness may be made eligible for medical insurance coverage.· Government is duty-bound to plan, implement mental health programmes and create aware-ness about mental health and ill-ness to reduce the associated with mental illness· Every person will have access to mental health care and treat-ment at affordable cost, of good quality and of requisite quantity, accusable to the report, their fam-ilies and care givers· Government should interpret mental health services into gener-al health care services at all levels in all health programmes.· Government shall arrange good quality care and treatment in hospitals funded by government and in case of non availability in nearby place; refund the costs of treatment to the patient.To conclude, a mentally well per-son means a healthy society and developed nation. It is not enough if we have best health care ser-vices, protective legislation un-less the stigma, discrimination and widely held misconceptions attached to mental illness are weeded out and community be-comes more empathetic towards such persons.

India’s Gems & Jewellery Industry A Dazzling Success Story

India’s gems and jewellery industry is a bright star of the economy, and one of the important foundations of the country’s export-led growth. It is a leading foreign exchange earner and one of the fastest growing sectors, which accounted

for 14 per cent of India’s total merchandise exports during FY 2011-12. The industry has registered a remarkable growth over the last four decades, with exports growing from US$ 28 million in 1966-67 when the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council ( GJEPC) was established, to US$ 42.84 billion in FY 2011-12. Diamonds account for 54 per cent of the total export basket of the industry, with gold jewellery contrib-uting 38 per cent and coloured gemstones and others contributing 1 per cent each, whereas rough dia-mond contributes 4 per cent of the total share. The industry is a truly global one, with both suppliers and buyers from many different countries. The UAE ( 44 per cent), Hong Kong ( 25 per cent) and USA ( 12 per cent) are among the major buyers, while Belgium, which accounts for 21.55 per cent of all imports of raw materials, is by far the major sup-plier.Diamonds : Undisputed LeadershipA major contributor to the creditable performance of the industry is the massive diamond manufactur-ing sector, which employs nearly one million people across the country. India exported cut and polished diamonds worth US$ 23.30 billion in 2011-12. The industry has grown from its small origins in the ‘50s and has established itself as the world’s largest manufacturing centre of cut and polished diamonds for the last many years, contributing 60 per cent of the world’s supply in terms of value, 85 per cent in terms of volume. Eleven out of every 12 diamonds set in jewellery worldwide, are processed in India, mainly around Mumbai, Surat and Jaipur. This feat has been possible due to various factors. At the forefront is the skill of the Indian artisan. The relentless efforts of Indian entrepreneurs, who took on the daunting task of setting up this industry, has contributed to its growth in no small measure. Indian diamantaires have gone on to create a mar-keting network worldwide, which is truly mind-bog-gling. Added to this is the strong financial base of the industry and support of financial institutions of the country.Today, after creating a niche for itself in the diamond world with small diamonds, India is developing skills for cutting and polishing larger stones and fancy cuts. Indian diamond polishing fac-tories are on a par with the world’s best and are at the cutting edge of technology using laser machines,

computerized yield planning machines, advanced bruiting lathes, etc.Jewellery: Brilliant ImpactIn the recent past, it is in the jewellery sector that India has made a brilliant impact, emerging as the fastest growing jewellery exporter in the world, av-eraging a growth of nearly 15-20 per cent each year over the last decade. Exports of gold jewellery in 2011-12 touched US$ 16.5 billion from just US$ 486 million in 1994-95. However, the development of the branded jewellery segment is still in its rudimentary stage, mainly be-cause the traditional jewellery has been dominated by home grown retail enterprises or the concept of the family jeweller. The Hall Marking of jewellery introduced by the Bureau of Indian Standards to institutionalize global bench marking in quality assurance and to prevent against frauds will go a long way in building a reliable Brand India. A few Indian jewellery brands are marking their global footprints, having entrenched themselves in the do-mestic market.The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Coun-cilThe Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, set up by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 1966, has played a significant role in the evolution of the industry to its present stature by effectively moulding the scattered efforts of individual export-ers into a powerful engine driving the country’s ex-port-led growth. Today, the Council has 5,300 mem-bers spread all over the country. The Council undertakes direct promotional activities such as organizing joint participation in international jewellery shows, sending and hosting trade delegations, and sustained image building exercise through advertisements abroad, publica-tions, audio visuals/corporate literature, members’ directory, etc.It also directly aids intra-regional in-vestments by encouraging co-operation and joint ventures in jewellery manufacturing, especially in the various EPZs/SEZs created by the Ministry of Commerce which offer special facilities for Foreign Direct Investments in Jewellery units through for-eign collaborations and partnerships.The Government, recognizing the the inherent strengths of this sector in terms of its employability potential has taken major initiatives to strengthen institutional linkages. Enhancing the skill levels of the workers commensurate with the require-ment of the industry tops the agenda and two such centres are being set up at Domjur in West Bengal and Khambat in Gujarat. The Government is also

encouraging global partnerships and collaborative ventures for adopting a diversified approach in the jewellery sector. A collaboration with the Ant-werp World Diamond Centre has also been sought to strengthen skills in diamond and gem stones grading, certification, research and development, cutting and polishing and setting up state-of-the –art training centres in India.India International Jewellery Week & India In-ternational Jewellery ShowThe Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, in its endeavour to promote India as the “Innova-tion & Design Destination” for jewellery, presents the India International Jewellery week (IIJW). It is a five day extravaganza of 32 shows brought togeth-er major jewellery designers of India. IIJW is an initiative to showcase India’s finest in jewellery, be it design or innovation supported by top of the line craftsmanship, technology and quality, to custom-ers around the globe.The Jewellery week is followed by the India Interna-tional Jewellery Show, which has grown significant-ly to become the second largest Jewellery Expo in the Asia –Pacific region. It has acquired the reputation of being the most prominent sourcing show in India, evincing great participation from exhibiters, export-ers, buyers and trade visitors. The 29th edition of the India International Jewellery Show, which was in-augurated by the Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Mr.Anand Sharma on August 23, has at-tracted participation of over 800 exhibitors with 1800 stalls, with exclusive country pavilions of Thailand, Israel, Turkey, Belgium and UAE. The India International Jewellery Show represents an amalgam of the ingenuity of handcraft, skill, technology, innovation and creativity of our bril-liant minds truly making India.Looking AheadThe global market for Gems and Jewellery today is over USD 100 billion with jewellery manufacturing dominated by a handful of countries, namely- Italy, China, Thailand, USA and India. Although India is the global factory of cutting and polishing diamonds, the trading hubs are located in the bye lanes of An-twerp and Belgium where this trade is shared by Jews and Gujarati’s. The setting up of the Diamond Bourse in Mumbai –amongst the largest bourses in the world, at par with international standards is ex-pected to ensure India’s strategic shift as a leading diamond trading market in Asia. The vision is to make India the Global Jewellery Hub and world’s one stop destination for diamonds, gems, gold and jewellery, in the years to come.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Love all, trust a few, do wrong to noneWilliam Shakespare

Srinagar, Sunday 08 June 2014