GRATITUDE Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai
I convey my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to His Excellency the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir Shri N.N.Vohra, Hon’ble Chief Minister J&K Madam Mehbooba Mufti,Leader of Opposition Rajaya Sabha Jenab Ghulam Nabi Azad Sahab, National Conference President Dr, Farooq Abullah Sahab and former Chief Minister Janab Omar Abdullah Sahab, Hon'ble Chairman J&K Legislative Council Haji Anayat Ali Sahab, Hon'ble Speaker J&K Legislative Assembly Shri Kavinder Gupta, Hon'ble Deputy Speaker J&K Legislative Assembly Janab Nazir Gurezi, President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee Jenab G. A. Mir Sahab, Hon'ble Chairman/CEC LAHDC Kargil Kacho Ahmad Ali Khan, Hon’ble Cabinet Ministers of J&K State, Hon’ble Ministers of State J&K, fellow legislatures Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council, former Ministers, former Parliamentarians, former legislators, J&K state administrative functionaries, media persons, Political/Religious/Social/Student organizations of Kargil, Leh,Kashmir,Jammu and different parts of India, Pakistan, Iran and each individual who have extended their deep sympathies and condolences personally/telephonically and through print, electronic and social media to me and my family on the sad demise of my beloved daughter Zaineb Karbalaie. We are exceptionally appreciative to all for your kind expressions of sympathies. Sympathies are not only a declaration of sensitivity, they are not simple words – they are articulation of genuine sentiments. Much thanks to you all for sharing our torment.
Further Iam personally thankful to Hon’ble Chief Minister J&K, Madam Mehbooba Mufti Shiba and state administrative functionaries and team of doctors in extending their full support and cooperation for the specialized treatment of my deceased daughter at Jammu, New Delhi and Navi Mumbai. We can just pray for their wellness and prosperity. Although it was a tragic moment for us but the sympathies and encouragement extended by these well wishers made us easy to cope up with the grave situation.We are grateful to all those prayed for her well being during her treatment.
Further more I extend my sincere thanks to All Kargil Students Union Jammu and other organisations for arranging Majlis Fateha Khawani in favour of the deceased as well as each and every individual who have attended the Jenaza at Jammu.
May Almighty Allah bless you all and bestow us with the will and power to serve humanity.
Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai
Member J&K Legislative Assembly
Haji Anayat Hails Kargil Boxers
Jammu, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): Kargil Boxers clinched 7 gold, 2 silver and 4 Bronze in the recently concluded State Boxing Championship at M A Stadium Jammu organized by J&K Armature Boxing Association.
All the players who won medals were trained under the supervision of NIS Boxing Coach Ghulam Mustafa at SAI SAG Center Kargil.
Chairman, J&K Legislative Council Haji Anayat Ali who is also the president of Kargil Boxing Association (KBA) appreciated the result of the players of Kargil and thanked Sports Authority Of India for opening Special Center at Kargil and also appreciated the efforts made by the first NIS Coach of Kargil Ghulam Mustafa.
Applauding the players for wonderful results Haji Anayat Ali urged upon them to grab this opportunity and take benefit from the facilities provided by the Government as the government both at Centre as well as State is focused on promoting Sports at Primary level.
Players who won gold medals included Zulfiqar Ali, Irfan Ali, Mohammad Hassan, Sadiq Ali, Nissar Hussain, Stanzin Angmo, Nilzaya Angmo while as Javed Iqbal and Stanzin Yangdol won Silver Medal and Ghulam Rasool, Tariq Alam and Sita Devi won Bronze Medals.
CEC Leh For Smooth Charging Of Kuhls
Leh, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): To ensure timely and smooth charging of water in all the irrigation Khuls of Leh district keeping in mind the fast approaching of sowing season in the district particularly in Shaam region, an important meeting of all the Councillors of Shaam region with ACD Leh, SE PWD, Exn. I&FC and Exn. PHE was held under the chairmanship of Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Leh Dorjey Motup at Council Secretariat today. The Executive Councilor for Agriculture Tsering Wangdus, Councilor Temisgam Tsering Morup, Councilor Skurbuchan Stanzin Phuntsog and Councilor Khaltsi Lobzang Sherap attended the meeting.
Presiding over the meeting, CEC DM strictly instructed all the executing agencies to initiate all necessary measures well in time to restore all the major and minor irrigation canals including headworks in Khaltsi region on war- footing so that farmers would not face any problem with relate to cultivation of their annual crops. CEC instructed Exn. I&FC to prepare an exact list of all the major/minor irrigation canals of Leh district under various sectors with all relevant data so that LAHDC would enable to approach the Govt. for funding for permanent and temporary restoration of all the canals besides its maintenance.
After detailed discussion on the current status of all the irrigation canals of almost every villages of Khaltsi Sub Division, CEC cautioned the executing agencies to leave no room for any compliant. On the other hand, he assured for providing funds to carry out the works. To ensure speedy work on some important I/Khuls, Dorjey Motup has tasked Rural Development Deptt. to do the needful by taking technical support from the PWD.
In the meeting, the EC Agriculture, Tsering Wangdus has pointed out the poor status of water supply schemes in many villages in Shaam and urged the PHE to come up with a concrete solution with workable expertise to end the people’s complaints.
Apart from Shaam region, CEC as a whole perspective on present status of I/Khuls in all over Leh district, instructed the concerned agencies to focus their attention well in time on upgradation and restoration so that no farmer in any village would suffer in the wake of poor performance on the part of executing agencies.
Baseej-e-Imam Volunteers Fishes Out Body From River Suru
Kargil,Feb-2018(News-Desk,VOL): Exhibiting great courage and commitment, the Baseej-e-Imam(IKMT Kargil) volunteers recovered the body of a youth from Tambis village who fell into river Suru near Tambis village the previous evening. The youth was one Fida Ali Aba from tambis village. On getting information of the incident the volunteers of Baseej-e-Imam,swung into action at 8am in the morning and started a massive search operation in the area. This they did using hand made search Boat and after a long and tiring search, they were to able find the dead body of the youth in the deep and freezing water of river Suru. The volunteers later handed over the body of deceased youth to the Police in presence of the villagers. The villagers appreciated the efforts of Baseej-e-Imam and thanked them for their timely help and the appreciable gesture.
Brown Bear Creates Panic in Lankarchey
Kargil,Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): Panic gripped people in Lankerchey village and its adjacent areas, after a Brown bear found roaming in the area.
The residents of villages Lankerchey and its adjacent area's were seen panickin when they saw a brown bear roaming in the low lands of nearby mountains and the people have urged the wildlife Department Kargil to catch the animal at the earliest to restore calm in the area.
Governor Inaugurates Literary & Cultural Festival
Jammu, Feb 2018 (Agencies): Governor N.N. Vohra inaugurated a 3 day ‘J&K Literary and Cultural Festival’ on the occasion of the ‘International Mother Tongue Day’, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art Culture and Languages (JKAACL), here.
Governor, who is Patron of the JKAACL, complimented Dr. Azizi Hajini, Secretary JKAACL, and his colleagues for regularly organizing meaningful activities in the field of art and literature in all the three regions of the State. Lauding the organising of ‘J&K Literary and Cultural Festival’, Governor observed that such events are useful for promoting heritage and culture and urged that youth from high schools and colleges should be involved in such festivals.
Governor observed that one can learn to appreciate the nuances of a society’s culture only through its language and urged that children should be encouraged to learn and speak their mother tongue.
Noting the role which is required to be played by the JKAACL in promoting Art, Culture and Languages in J&K, which has three regions, distinct in their geography, climate and culture, Governor noted that the Academy can provide valuable platforms for the three regions to come together and understand each other’s traditions, cultures and art forms. He urged organising more programmes where youth can meet and learn about each other.
Governor released ‘Who’s Who of J&K Writers/Artists’, which is a Directory containing information of writers and artists of the State,and the Annual Report of the JKAACL. He observed that the Directory will be very useful as it is a handy compilation of all writers and artists in the State.
Earlier, Governor inaugurated ‘Nostalgic Kashmir’ a photo exhibition organised by Sh. S.R. Wani, in which collection of photographs from 1850’s to 1950’s of Royalty, Kashmiri Pandits and Temples of Jammu and Kashmir have been displayed. Governor suggested to Dr. Hajini that these rare photographs should be compiled in book form with suitable titles to explain each picture.
Ms. Priya Sethi, MoS Tourism and Culture, stressed the need for encouraging children to learn and speak their mother tongue and assured government’s active support in the promotion of art and culture in the State.
The Key Note Address was given by Sh. Darshan Darshi, noted Dogri writer and Prof. Naseem Shafai, prominent Kashmiri poetess spoke about importance of the mother tongue.
The Welcome Address was presented by Dr. Azizi Hajini and a Vote of Thanks given by Dr. A.S. Aman, Additional Secretary JKAACL.
DC Leh Appreciates Transport Union
Leh, Feb (News Desk,VOL): The Deputy Commissioner, Leh Avny Lavasa expressed her appreciation to all the transport unions of Leh for their cooperation in shifting to the “New Commercial Vehicle Terminal” at Bombgard. DC, Leh also assured them that the district administration will put in all efforts to make the new terminal equipped with all facilities. Toilets at the terminal will be completed within a month. Drinking water facility and the approach road will be completed within a week time, DC said. The parking space opposite taxi stand near Leh market has been handover to MC, Leh. In the same space booking office for taxi union shall be given on the roof top of the toilet along with space for about 10 vehicles of Taxi Union. Old Taxi stand shall now be used for multi-storey parking of vehicles. These initiatives have been taken in the larger public interest and will go a long way in decongestion of traffic in Leh town, decrease in pollution and a more organized transport service system.
Ladakh Scouts Lifts Ice Hockey Trophy
Srinagar, Feb 2018 ( News Desk,VOL): The 1st J&K State Ice Hockey Championship 2018 was organised at Leh, under the aegis of “Ladakh Winter Sports Club” from 19 Feb to 22 Feb 2018 in which a large number of teams from Ladakh region participated.
The Ladakh Scouts completely dominated the championship. The final match was played on 22 Feb 18 in Karzu Ice Hockey Rink between Ladakh Scouts Red team and Ladakh Scouts Blue team which the Ladakh Scouts Red team won by a margin of 3-1 goals. Mr Gyal P Wangail Executive Councillor for Health and Youth Services, LAHDC, Leh was the Chief Guest and gave away the Championship Trophy and prizes to the winner and the runners up team.
2 Days District Level Cultural Meet Concludes
Kargil Feb, 2018 (News Desk,VOL): The 2 Days District Level Multilingual Cultural and Literary Meet organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Kargil concluded at Language Center here today.
Around 70 writers, poets, scholars and folk artists of the Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi tribal groups from different areas of the district participated in the two days cultural and literary event.
Among others who were present on the occasion included Former Executive Councilor and Councilor Tai Suru Aga Syed Abbass Razvi, Additional Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta, Assistant Commissioner Development Kargil Barkat Ali Lone Nizami, Assistant Registrar Cooperatives Kargil Muhammad Iqbal and a number of senior officers from the District Administration.
On the second day of the two days meet today, around 20 poets recited their poetic compositions in Urdu, Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi languages while as different short stories in regional languages besides research oriented papers on different aspects of art, culture and languages were presented on the occasion. Moreover, folk music performances were also presented by the folk artists which won thundering rounds of applause by the audience.
Writers, poets, intellectuals, district officers, students and a jam packed hall of cultural and literary enthusiasts were present on the occasion.
The poets who presented their poetic renderings included Muhmmad Ali Nowsheen, Muhammad Hussain Rehnuma ,Skarma Junglay, Akhone Safdar Ali Safdar, Aga Syed Hadi Shah Aga, Bashir Ahmad Wafa, Haji Muhammad Ibrahim Rahee, Ghulam Qadir Zaki, Ashraf Ali Sagar, Muhammad Ali Khumar, Muhammad Jawad Jalib, Muhammad Asgar Aasi, Tsewang Rigzin, Mukhtar Zahid, Muhammad Hussain Fayaz, Fida Hussain Wazir Fida, Muhammad Taqi Khan Nayaab, Muhammad Ali Babaa, Zakir Hussain Karbalai, Nissar Hussain Trespone, Sajjad Ali Shujaat, Fida Ali Fida Karkith, Nassir Hussain Tumaily, Farooq Ahmad Noorie, Barkat Ali Lone Nizami, Abdul Majeed Sehra, Ahmad Hussain Olpa and Muhammad Khalil.
During the paper reading sessions Kacho Gulzar Hussain Khan presented his paper on the topic Ladakhi Folklore in the Contemporary Times, Muhammad Sadiq Hardassi on The King of Balti Behre Taweel- Bawa Johar Ali Johar, Raza Amjad Badgami Shina Dardi Folklore- An Overview and Muhammad Shafi Sagar on the topic The Role of Poetry in Reforming the Lives of Communities in Different Times.
Muhammad Abbass Skith, Zakir Hussain Zakir, Akhone Asgar Ali Basharat and Muhammad Abbass Zameer presented short stories while as folk songs were presented by Muhammad Ali and party, Muhammad Ishaq and party, Muhammad Abdullah, Muhammad Hussain Fayaaz and Ahsan Ali.
The proceedings of different sessions was conducted by Bashir Ahmad Wafa.
Academic Arrangement For Remote Areas With 30% Extra Emoluments
Srinagar, Feb 2018 (PTK): Minister for Education, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari today reaffirmed the resolve of the government to fill gaps in education sector and work towards consolidation of infrastructure and teaching staff in rural districts, including Ladakh region. Addressing a gathering of students here at the annual day function of All Ladakh Students Welfare Association Jammu (ALSWAJ), the Minister said as short-term measure, the Government has decided to engage candidates on academic arrangements to meet dearth of teaching staff and in areas like Leh and Kargil the selected candidates would be given 30 percent more emoluments than paid to the people in other areas. However, he said government has set the target to fill all vacancies of Assistant Professors, lecturers and teachers in next six months. Chairman Ladakh Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil Hajji Kachu Ali Khan, a large number of students and the association officer bearers including, the President Fayaz Ahmed was present at the function, which witnessed scintillating show by the Students featuring unique rich Balti culture and heritage. Recalling his recent visit to Ladakh with Chief Minister, the Minister said that he was highly impressed by seeing huge strength of Girl students at the Government Degree College Kargil adding this reflects the progressive approach of the community. The Minister also announced that the government has approved Degree College for Drass meeting the long pending demand of the locals. He said the government was ready to start the classes from the current session and sought the cooperation of LADHC Kargil chairman in identifying a spacious building to run the classes till the campus is established. He said government has decided to hire private buildings for new colleges contrary to the past practice of running these from Higher Secondary schools, which does not go well with the scheme of things. The Minister also informed that during her visit to Kargil, the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti sanctioned funds for up-gradation of the GDC, Hostel and College Buses. He said the government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is committed to meet the education requirements of all regions. He also announced that the government has allotted 5 kanal land for the establishment of girls’ hostel for Jammu. Appreciating the cultural presentations, the Minister said he felt proud to be part of the event which reflected that the young generation of Kargil has preserved their cultural heritage. He encouraged them to preserve it forever do not let it wade away with the coming of development which is knocking at their doors with the construction of proposed Zojila tunnel. In his address, chairman LAHDC, Kargil Kachu Ali Khan urged the youth of Ladakh to strive hard to meet their goals, especially achieving educational and professional excellence. He reminded them that the problems the region is facing on account of dearth of doctors, teachers and professors could be overcome only when they achieve distinction in the life. The Association also honored people from Kargil who have excelled in different fields of knowledge and skills.
Amir Calls For Preservation Of Cultural Heritage
Kargil Feb 2018(News Desk,VOL): Acting Chairman and Chief Executive Councilor Kargil Advocate Muhammad Amir today called for collective efforts to ensure the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage so as to ensure its proper safeguard for the future generations. The Acting CEC stated this while inaugurating the 2 Days District Level Multilingual Cultural and Literary Meet organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Kargil at Language Center here today. Around 70 writers, poets, scholars and folk artists of the Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi tribal groups from different areas of the district are participating in the two days cultural and literary event.
Advisor to CEC Kargil Haji Muhammad Shafi, Assistant Commissioner Development Kargil Barkat Ali Lone Nizami and a number of senior officers from the District Administration were present on the occasion.
Amir while underlining the importance of upholding the glorious folk literature and ancestral values of the bygone era which form an integral part of the true identity of Kargil urged upon the need of cultural consciousness at the mass level so that every individual can contribute his bit in this regard. The Acting CEC also appealed the writers and poets participating in the two days meet to make the sessions fruitful, purposeful and result oriented by way of their valuable research oriented suggestions, inputs as well as constructive debates and deliberations adding this would enable the Academy to devise a roadmap for future course of action with regard to the challenges and opportunities of the vernacular languages.
Meanwhile 17 poets presented their poetic renderings while as research oriented papers on Shina Dardi and Ladakhi folklore besides short stories were presented during the first day of the event today. Moreover, folk music performances were also presented by the folk artists which won thundering rounds of applause by the audience.
Earlier during the welcome address Special Officer for Cultural Activities Kargil Muhammad Ali Tak while highlighting the aims and objectives of the two days event briefed about the endeavours of Cultural Academy towards the promotion and preservation of the cultural heritage of Kargil.
Writers, poets, intellectuals, district officers, students and jam packed hall of cultural and literary enthusiasts were present on the occasion.
On the second day of the two days meet, several poetry, short story and paper recital sessions as well as folk music performances are slated to be organized tomorrow.
CEC Leh Reviews Development Works
Leh, Feb 2018(News Desk,VOL): To speed up the incomplete works under UIDSSMT and AMRUT in Leh town keeping in mind the approaching working season, a meeting of all the four Executive Councilors Tsering Wangdus, Gyal P . Wangail, Tsering Sandup, Mumtaz Hussain, Councilor Upper Leh Gay Lobzang Nyantak, Councilor Lower Leh P. Wangdan and all the executing agencies headed by ADC, Leh Moses Kunzang was held under the chairmanship of CEC, LAHDC, Leh Dorjey Motup at Council Secretariat today afternoon.
Enquiring about the progress of all the ongoing works under UIDSSMT and AMRUT in Leh town, CEC DM fixed timeline for various works being executed by PHE, R&B, Construction, PDD Divisions and Municipality Deptts. Leh as per which PHE division will start laying of sewerage and drinking water pipe lines between Lamdon School to De-be-too from 3rd March and complete it by 15th April 2018 so that R&B Division will undertake the same road for BT and macadamization which will begin after 15th May. Likewise, DM directed PHE department to complete all the earth excavation works by ending April, 2018. To ensure smooth traffic movement during earth excavation works, CEC DM directed ADC, Leh to provide every possible support from district administration and stressed on close coordination between all the executing agencies taking both the Upper and Lower Leh Councillors in full confidence.
To ensure minimum inconvenience to the public during work execution, DM directed engineers to take works priority wise in consultation with Councilors.
DM also directed Exn. PDD to start the underground cabling of electric lines of Leh town including main market at the earliest.
ADC, Leh Moses Kunzang informed the meeting that due to escalation in the project cost of Sewerage Treatment Plant and Multi Tier Parking Facility for Leh town a meeting at State level will be convened soon to through these projects.
Stressing on earliest completion of all the works in Leh town, Councilor Gay Lobzang Nyantak requested executing agencies to ensure minimum inconvenience to the public specially farmers during sowing season.
Councilor Lower Leh P. Wangdan strongly stressed on earliest completion of all the works in Lowe Leh Constituency including macadamization of all the roads in Ibex Colony this year.
Sacred Month Being Observed At Leh
Leh, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): The 1st month of Buddhist Calendar is observed as sacred month and during the entire month Buddhists of Leh organize various prayers at Monasteries and village level. On 14th and 15th of this calendar i.e. falling on 28th February and 1st of March 2018, on this occasion the devotees perform annual Gochak procession which starts from Leh Gate and passes through main market to Tsemo Monastery and culminate on the 3rd day morning at Leh Gate. Thousands of devotees participates in the Gochak prayers every year, in which devotees prostrate and march for whole days on the road.
Sheynam Gochak Tsogspa consisting of about 150-160 devotees have already started their prostration (Gochak) procession in Leh from 26.02.2018, and they will join the main Gochak party at Leh gate on 28.02.2018.
Moreover, the annual two day long Mela Mathoo Monastery is being celebrated at Mathoo (25 Kms) away from Leh Hqr. on 1st and 2nd of March 2018.
Elaborate Police / Security arrangements have been made for both the occasion to ensure safety / security of the devotees and maintenance of law and order on the occasion.
CM For Fast Tracking Recruitments
Jammu, February 26, (Scoop News)- Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has impressed upon the recruiting agencies like Public Service Commission (PSC) and Subordinate Services Recruitment Board (SSRB) to speed up recruitment process in the State even as she asked the Departments to update the vacancy positions and clear the backlog of class IV recruitments.
Chairing a review meeting in this regard here today, the Chief Minister advised the PSC and SSRB to devise a yearly calendar of recruitments to save time and make the selected candidates available to the Government in time. She specifically asked for pacing up of selections in School Education, Higher Education and Health & Medical Education Departments in view of the demand on ground.
Chairman, J&K Public Service Commission, Lateef u Zaman Deva; Chief Secretary, B. B. Vyas and administrative secretaries of all the Departments were present in the meeting.
Mehbooba Mufti also directed speeding up the process of DPCs so that more vacancies are cleared down below for appointment. She also directed fast tracking of the recruitment process of class IV vacancies which have crossed five thousand. She specifically directed the Departments to project their vacancy positions for the current year, refer these to recruiting agencies so that selections are made in time. She also asked the concerned Departments and recruiting agencies to follow the court cases rigorously.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed Department wise status of selections made, vacant positions and under process selections by the SSRB and the PSC.
The meeting was informed that 3290 selections were made by the PSC during the last three years, including 2095 during last year which also includes 510 selections eversince she held such a review meeting on November 22 last. Of the pending 2191 vacancies with the Commission, advertisement process for 1104 is on and soon selections in respect of 700 vacancies would be made, the meeting was informed. The meeting was informed that of the 88 cases of DPC received during last three years, 57 have been cleared and 31 are in various stages of clearance.
As for the SSRB, the Chief Minister was informed that
19, 583 selections were made during the last three years and currently selection process in respect of 9447 vacancies is on.
As for the Departmental Promotion Committees, 28733 cases have been cleared in various Departments while as 3254 such cases are in various stages of completion, the meeting was informed. Also more than five thousand vacancies of class IV vacancies are yet to be filled, the meeting was informed.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister was informed about the action taken on many of her directions during her last review meeting.
India’s Progress In Science & Technology Exponential’
New Delhi, Feb, 2018 (PIB):Union Minister for Science & Technology; Environment, Forest & Climate Change Dr. Harsh Vardhan recently said, India’s progress in the field of science and technology is exponential and science can address most of the problems the society is facing now.
Dr Harsh Vardhan was talking to hundreds of school children, who turned up at his residence to see a limited exhibition, showcasing advancements in Science & Technology in India. He had already interacted with thousands of school children to generate scientific temperament among them. The exhibitions include the country’s advancement in aerospace, biotechnology, nanotechnology, green energy, plant genetics, technology to aid healthcare, etc.
The Minister has also been advocating the children to be ambassadors of environmental protection. He told them, the hazard of climate change and global warming is manifesting into a reality and people should take conscious efforts in mitigating stress on environment and climate. As developmental efforts need to be sustained, its impact on climate should be mitigated through a series of efforts, including environment-friendly lifestyle.
Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has drawn up a national campaign weaving around some 500 simple lifestyle habits that can be easily adopted, in an effort to sensitise the hazards of climate and global warming. The campaign named “Green Good Deeds” can have a cascading effect, if everyone adopts even one deed a day.
During the last one month, the Ministry has invited thousands of children from various schools to enlist their support to the campaign. Besides government officials, teachers, professionals, members of voluntary organisations and general public from across Delhi have also come forward to support the cause.
“Every citizen should become a ‘Green Volunteer’ so that we could relay the environment we inherited from our ancestors to the generation that is yet to take birth. That’s our moral responsibility,” said Dr. Vardhan.
He said the present government is undertaking several good deeds including “Green Good Deeds”. He pointed there has been intervention from the highest political level to bring down the level of air pollution in Delhi and its surrounding areas, which has become an international subject of discussion. All states involved in stubble burning have been told that they need to take firm measures to curb it by the next season. In fact, even budgetary allocations were made to support the efforts of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and the NCT of Delhi to address air pollution. The government have also decided to subsidise machinery required for in-situ management of crop residue to prevent burning of stubble in the next winter. The minister said, he would like all, particularly youth and children to understand that our deeds have to be environment-friendly. Dr Vardhan said, the hazard of climate change and global warming is manifesting into a reality and people should take conscious efforts in mitigating further stress on climate.
There should be a judicious balance of sustainable economic development and environmental protection. While the role of the government is to prepare roadmap for environmental protection, adherence to the rules and regulations is the primary responsibility of the stakeholders. Unless there is public involvement and commitment, no such drive can be taken to its logical conclusion. Like Corporate Social Responsibility, it is the Green Social Responsibility of every citizen to maintain environment.
15th Finance Commission Invites Suggestions
New Delhi, Feb 2018 (PIB):The Fifteenth Finance Commission has invited suggestions/views on issues related to the terms of reference from the members of the general public, institutions and organizations.
The Commission shall review the current status of the finance, deficit, debt levels, cash balances and fiscal discipline efforts of the Union and the States, and recommend a fiscal consolidation roadmap for sound fiscal management. The Commission shall take into account the responsibility of the Central Government and State Governments to adhere to appropriate levels of general and consolidated government debt and deficit levels, while fostering higher inclusive growth in the country, guided by the principles of equity, efficiency and transparency. The Commission may also examine whether revenue deficit grants be provided at all.
Some of the key issues for consideration by the commission are as under:
The impact on the fiscal situation of the Union Government of substantially enhanced tax devolution to States following recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission, coupled with the continuing imperative of the national development programme including New India – 2022;
The impact of the GST, including payment of compensation for possible loss of revenues for 5 years, and abolition of a number of cesses, earmarking thereof for compensation and other structural reforms programme, on the finances of Centre and States.
Efforts made by the States in expansion and deepening of tax net under GST;
Efforts and Progress made in moving towards replacement rate of population growth
Progress made in increasing tax/non-tax revenues, promoting savings by adoption of Direct Benefit Transfers and Public Finance Management System, promoting digital economy and removing layers between the government and the beneficiaries;
Progress made in sanitation, solid waste management and bringing in behavioural change to end open defecation.
The Fifteenth Finance Commission as constituted in pursuance of clause (1) of Article 280 of the Constitution, w.e.f. 27th November, 2017 shall make its report available by 30th October, 2019, covering a period of five years commencing 1st April, 2020. The Commission shall use the population data of 2011 while making its recommendations.
All interested organizations and individuals may send their suggestions/views by 30th June 2018 in any of the following manner:
By Post, addressed to the Secretary, fifteenth Finance Commission,
9th Floor, Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan, Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi-110001.
Through e-mail to: secy-xvfc@gov.in
Through website http://fincomindia.nic.in by clicking on hyperlink
‘call for suggestions’.
The detailed Terms of Reference of the Commission has been issued vide notification Number S.O.3755(E) dated 27th November, 2017.
http://www.egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2017/180483.pdf
EU: All Israeli Settlements ‘Illegal, Obstacle To Peace’
Feb 2018 (Press TV): The European Union (EU)’s top diplomat, Federica Mogherini, has stressed that all Israeli settlements are illegal, condemning them as “an obstacle to peace.”
“We have stressed, repeatedly, that all settlements are illegal and are an obstacle to peace,” High Representative Mogherini said before talks between EU and Arab League foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday, which she said would focus on “how to bring the Middle East peace process forward.”
About 600,000 Israelis live in over 230 illegal settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and East Jerusalem al-Quds.
Mogherini also commented on the recent closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem al-Quds in protest against Israeli measures, saying “The special status and the character of the city [Jerusalem al-Quds] must be preserved and respected by all.”
“We hope that a solution can be found quickly, Jerusalem is a holy city to the three monotheistic religions,” she added.
For his part, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi, who arrived in Brussels for talks on the so-called Middle East peace process, stressed that the only solution “is to reach a lasting peace that again will ensure that East Jerusalem [al-Quds] is the capital of a Palestinian State.”
Mogherini expressed the EU’s readiness to “offer the redeployment of our mission EUBAM Rafah (the European Union Border Assistance Mission in Rafah),” a Palestinian city and refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip and to “support even more the economic development of Gaza and obviously also increase our humanitarian aid with the specific focus on hospitals in Gaza.”
Safadi said, “We must also make sure that UNRWA (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) continues to deliver its vital services to millions of refugees across its five areas of operation.”
In a rare move, church leaders in Palestine decided on Sunday to close the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem al-Quds until further notice to express dissent against new Israeli tax measures and a proposed property law that they say is an attack on Christians.
Recently, the municipality of Jerusalem al-Quds canceled a tax exemption it had granted to the church-owned commercial property in the city.
Furthermore, Israeli lawmakers have proposed a bill that would allow the regime to expropriate land in Jerusalem al-Quds sold by churches to private real estate companies in recent years.
Church officials, however, say such a law would make it more difficult for them to find buyers for church-owned land-sales that contribute to operating costs of their religious institutions.
US President Donald Trump on December 6 formally recognized Jerusalem al-Quds as the “capital” of Israel and announced plans to move the American embassy to the occupied city.
Google Not Responsible For Checking Links: Court
Feb, 2018 (Press TV): An appeals court in Germany has decided to uphold a lower court ruling which stipulates that Google has no responsibility to check the content of links generated by its search engine to see whether they are free from defamatory content.
Presiding Judge Gregor Galke, from the Federal Court of Justice, ruled on Tuesday that "a general responsibility to regulate is incompatible with the function of search engines," adding that forcing Google and others to check every link would practically paralyze the service.
“Without the help of such search engines it would be impossible for individuals to get meaningful use out of the internet due to the unmanageable flood of data it contains,” said the court in a statement.
“Instituting a general duty to inspect the content would seriously call into question the business model of search engines, which is approved by lawmakers and wanted by society.”
The verdict came after a German couple brought a case against Google, arguing that the US-based internet company should be responsible for blocking links to sites where they said they were defamed.
The German court, however, said Google was supposed to act on links where users have reported “concrete evidence” of violations of law, such as child pornography or acts of violence.
Calls for removal of online content directly related to people are part of a broader debate dubbed the “right to be forgotten” which came in May 2014, when the Court of Justice of the European Union (ECJ) ruled that individuals can request search engines to remove inadequate or irrelevant information from web results appearing under searches for their names. Google has accepted to remove more than one million website links since then.
The ruling to exempt Google from monitoring search results comes against the backdrop of similar calls on European regulators to force internet companies to improve their monitoring of the content, especially those related to violence. The advocates of such calls argue that many of the attacks launched against civilians in Western Europe over the past years have been orchestrated using social networks or have been inspired by online content.
Those providing social networking services like Facebook or video-sharing website YouTube have actively sought to increase checks in a bid to avoid punishments.
Anti-Iran UN Resolution Vetoed
Feb 2018 (Press TV): A senior Iranian diplomat says Russia's vote against a United Nations draft resolution aimed at pressuring Iran over alleged missiles provision to Yemeni forces represented another setback for the United States.
Russia on Monday vetoed a resolution at the UN Security Council, presented by Britain and strongly backed by the United States, that would call for "additional measures" against Iran over accusations that it violated the 2015 arms embargo on the war-torn Arabian Peninsula state. The draft resolution gained 11 favorable votes at the 15-member Security Council but was blocked by Russia's veto. China and Kazakhstan abstained, while Bolivia also voted against the measure.
A group of so-called independent United Nations experts monitoring the sanctions on Yemen reported to the Security Council in January that it had “identified missile remnants, related military equipment and military unmanned aerial vehicles that are of Iranian origin and were brought into Yemen after the imposition of the targeted arms embargo.”
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araqchi rejected the "spiteful" allegations.
"Based on a one-sided report, they intended to pass a resolution that also referred to Iran, but they failed," Araqchi said.
"This is yet another failure by the US government to drag Iran to the Security Council," he added.
"Over the past year, the US government has on many occasions tried to one again drag Iran to the Security Council and it has failed every single time and this is another sign of the US isolation on the international scene and the strength of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the senior Iranian diplomat pointed out.
He emphasized that the "biased accusations" were absolutely clear in the way the report was formulated by the UN panel.
He said the UN experts had "made their own judgment even before travelling to Iran to discuss and hear our comments."
It was clear how others had influenced the report, Araqchi added.
"We will definitely continue our policies in the region in a way that will meet the country's interests," he said. The Houthi movement has been defending Yemen against a bloody Saudi-led military campaign, which was launched in 2015 with the help of the US and the UK to reinstall the country’s former Riyadh-friendly government. During a meeting of the Security Council on February 21, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia voiced his country's opposition to the Security Council resolution.“We do not like condemnations at all, no, in general,” Nebenzia said, adding, “It is a resolution about the extension of the working group, not about Iran. So we should concentrate on extending the working group first.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi earlier this month once again rejected the allegations about the Islamic Republic's provision of missiles to Yemeni forces, saying such claims are lies and a foolish scenario. "Iran's missile program is for defensive and deterrent [purposes] and claims about the dispatch of missiles to Yemen despite the all-out blockade on this country are lies and a foolish scenario designed to exonerate the aggressors," Qassemi said.The chief commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) also in January dismissed the allegations leveled by the US and its allies about the Islamic Republic’s provision of missiles to Yemeni forces. After Russia vetoed the Western bids at the Security Council, the United States threatened unilateral action against Tehran.
"If Russia is going to continue to cover for Iran, then the US and our partners need to take action on our own. If we're not going to get action on the [Security] Council, then we have to take our own actions," US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley told reporters on Monday during a visit to Honduran capital Tegucigalpa.
However, she did not specify what kind of action could be taken. "Obviously this vote isn't going to make the decision on the nuclear deal. What I can say is it doesn't help," Haley said, referring to the multilateral nuclear agreement reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries in 2015. She added, "That just validated a lot of what we already thought which is Iran gets a pass for its dangerous and illegal behavior." Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council – the US, France, Britain, Russia and China – plus Germany signed the nuclear agreement on July 14, 2015 and started implementing it on January 16, 2016.
Under the JCPOA, Iran undertook to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.
Trump has repeatedly described the JCPOA, which was negotiated under his predecessor, Barack Obama, as “the worst and most one-sided transaction Washington has ever entered into,” a characterization he often used during his presidential campaign, and threatened to tear it up.
Trump on January 12 reluctantly agreed to waive sanctions against Iran that were lifted as part of the landmark deal, but said it would be the last time he issued such a waiver unless conditions were met.
Jammu, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): Kargil Boxers clinched 7 gold, 2 silver and 4 Bronze in the recently concluded State Boxing Championship at M A Stadium Jammu organized by J&K Armature Boxing Association.
All the players who won medals were trained under the supervision of NIS Boxing Coach Ghulam Mustafa at SAI SAG Center Kargil.
Chairman, J&K Legislative Council Haji Anayat Ali who is also the president of Kargil Boxing Association (KBA) appreciated the result of the players of Kargil and thanked Sports Authority Of India for opening Special Center at Kargil and also appreciated the efforts made by the first NIS Coach of Kargil Ghulam Mustafa.
Applauding the players for wonderful results Haji Anayat Ali urged upon them to grab this opportunity and take benefit from the facilities provided by the Government as the government both at Centre as well as State is focused on promoting Sports at Primary level.
Players who won gold medals included Zulfiqar Ali, Irfan Ali, Mohammad Hassan, Sadiq Ali, Nissar Hussain, Stanzin Angmo, Nilzaya Angmo while as Javed Iqbal and Stanzin Yangdol won Silver Medal and Ghulam Rasool, Tariq Alam and Sita Devi won Bronze Medals.
CEC Leh For Smooth Charging Of Kuhls
Leh, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): To ensure timely and smooth charging of water in all the irrigation Khuls of Leh district keeping in mind the fast approaching of sowing season in the district particularly in Shaam region, an important meeting of all the Councillors of Shaam region with ACD Leh, SE PWD, Exn. I&FC and Exn. PHE was held under the chairmanship of Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Leh Dorjey Motup at Council Secretariat today. The Executive Councilor for Agriculture Tsering Wangdus, Councilor Temisgam Tsering Morup, Councilor Skurbuchan Stanzin Phuntsog and Councilor Khaltsi Lobzang Sherap attended the meeting.
Presiding over the meeting, CEC DM strictly instructed all the executing agencies to initiate all necessary measures well in time to restore all the major and minor irrigation canals including headworks in Khaltsi region on war- footing so that farmers would not face any problem with relate to cultivation of their annual crops. CEC instructed Exn. I&FC to prepare an exact list of all the major/minor irrigation canals of Leh district under various sectors with all relevant data so that LAHDC would enable to approach the Govt. for funding for permanent and temporary restoration of all the canals besides its maintenance.
After detailed discussion on the current status of all the irrigation canals of almost every villages of Khaltsi Sub Division, CEC cautioned the executing agencies to leave no room for any compliant. On the other hand, he assured for providing funds to carry out the works. To ensure speedy work on some important I/Khuls, Dorjey Motup has tasked Rural Development Deptt. to do the needful by taking technical support from the PWD.
In the meeting, the EC Agriculture, Tsering Wangdus has pointed out the poor status of water supply schemes in many villages in Shaam and urged the PHE to come up with a concrete solution with workable expertise to end the people’s complaints.
Apart from Shaam region, CEC as a whole perspective on present status of I/Khuls in all over Leh district, instructed the concerned agencies to focus their attention well in time on upgradation and restoration so that no farmer in any village would suffer in the wake of poor performance on the part of executing agencies.
Baseej-e-Imam Volunteers Fishes Out Body From River Suru
Kargil,Feb-2018(News-Desk,VOL): Exhibiting great courage and commitment, the Baseej-e-Imam(IKMT Kargil) volunteers recovered the body of a youth from Tambis village who fell into river Suru near Tambis village the previous evening. The youth was one Fida Ali Aba from tambis village. On getting information of the incident the volunteers of Baseej-e-Imam,swung into action at 8am in the morning and started a massive search operation in the area. This they did using hand made search Boat and after a long and tiring search, they were to able find the dead body of the youth in the deep and freezing water of river Suru. The volunteers later handed over the body of deceased youth to the Police in presence of the villagers. The villagers appreciated the efforts of Baseej-e-Imam and thanked them for their timely help and the appreciable gesture.
Brown Bear Creates Panic in Lankarchey
Kargil,Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): Panic gripped people in Lankerchey village and its adjacent areas, after a Brown bear found roaming in the area.
The residents of villages Lankerchey and its adjacent area's were seen panickin when they saw a brown bear roaming in the low lands of nearby mountains and the people have urged the wildlife Department Kargil to catch the animal at the earliest to restore calm in the area.
Governor Inaugurates Literary & Cultural Festival
Jammu, Feb 2018 (Agencies): Governor N.N. Vohra inaugurated a 3 day ‘J&K Literary and Cultural Festival’ on the occasion of the ‘International Mother Tongue Day’, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art Culture and Languages (JKAACL), here.
Governor, who is Patron of the JKAACL, complimented Dr. Azizi Hajini, Secretary JKAACL, and his colleagues for regularly organizing meaningful activities in the field of art and literature in all the three regions of the State. Lauding the organising of ‘J&K Literary and Cultural Festival’, Governor observed that such events are useful for promoting heritage and culture and urged that youth from high schools and colleges should be involved in such festivals.
Governor observed that one can learn to appreciate the nuances of a society’s culture only through its language and urged that children should be encouraged to learn and speak their mother tongue.
Noting the role which is required to be played by the JKAACL in promoting Art, Culture and Languages in J&K, which has three regions, distinct in their geography, climate and culture, Governor noted that the Academy can provide valuable platforms for the three regions to come together and understand each other’s traditions, cultures and art forms. He urged organising more programmes where youth can meet and learn about each other.
Governor released ‘Who’s Who of J&K Writers/Artists’, which is a Directory containing information of writers and artists of the State,and the Annual Report of the JKAACL. He observed that the Directory will be very useful as it is a handy compilation of all writers and artists in the State.
Earlier, Governor inaugurated ‘Nostalgic Kashmir’ a photo exhibition organised by Sh. S.R. Wani, in which collection of photographs from 1850’s to 1950’s of Royalty, Kashmiri Pandits and Temples of Jammu and Kashmir have been displayed. Governor suggested to Dr. Hajini that these rare photographs should be compiled in book form with suitable titles to explain each picture.
Ms. Priya Sethi, MoS Tourism and Culture, stressed the need for encouraging children to learn and speak their mother tongue and assured government’s active support in the promotion of art and culture in the State.
The Key Note Address was given by Sh. Darshan Darshi, noted Dogri writer and Prof. Naseem Shafai, prominent Kashmiri poetess spoke about importance of the mother tongue.
The Welcome Address was presented by Dr. Azizi Hajini and a Vote of Thanks given by Dr. A.S. Aman, Additional Secretary JKAACL.
DC Leh Appreciates Transport Union
Leh, Feb (News Desk,VOL): The Deputy Commissioner, Leh Avny Lavasa expressed her appreciation to all the transport unions of Leh for their cooperation in shifting to the “New Commercial Vehicle Terminal” at Bombgard. DC, Leh also assured them that the district administration will put in all efforts to make the new terminal equipped with all facilities. Toilets at the terminal will be completed within a month. Drinking water facility and the approach road will be completed within a week time, DC said. The parking space opposite taxi stand near Leh market has been handover to MC, Leh. In the same space booking office for taxi union shall be given on the roof top of the toilet along with space for about 10 vehicles of Taxi Union. Old Taxi stand shall now be used for multi-storey parking of vehicles. These initiatives have been taken in the larger public interest and will go a long way in decongestion of traffic in Leh town, decrease in pollution and a more organized transport service system.
Ladakh Scouts Lifts Ice Hockey Trophy
Srinagar, Feb 2018 ( News Desk,VOL): The 1st J&K State Ice Hockey Championship 2018 was organised at Leh, under the aegis of “Ladakh Winter Sports Club” from 19 Feb to 22 Feb 2018 in which a large number of teams from Ladakh region participated.
The Ladakh Scouts completely dominated the championship. The final match was played on 22 Feb 18 in Karzu Ice Hockey Rink between Ladakh Scouts Red team and Ladakh Scouts Blue team which the Ladakh Scouts Red team won by a margin of 3-1 goals. Mr Gyal P Wangail Executive Councillor for Health and Youth Services, LAHDC, Leh was the Chief Guest and gave away the Championship Trophy and prizes to the winner and the runners up team.
2 Days District Level Cultural Meet Concludes
Kargil Feb, 2018 (News Desk,VOL): The 2 Days District Level Multilingual Cultural and Literary Meet organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Kargil concluded at Language Center here today.
Around 70 writers, poets, scholars and folk artists of the Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi tribal groups from different areas of the district participated in the two days cultural and literary event.
Among others who were present on the occasion included Former Executive Councilor and Councilor Tai Suru Aga Syed Abbass Razvi, Additional Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta, Assistant Commissioner Development Kargil Barkat Ali Lone Nizami, Assistant Registrar Cooperatives Kargil Muhammad Iqbal and a number of senior officers from the District Administration.
On the second day of the two days meet today, around 20 poets recited their poetic compositions in Urdu, Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi languages while as different short stories in regional languages besides research oriented papers on different aspects of art, culture and languages were presented on the occasion. Moreover, folk music performances were also presented by the folk artists which won thundering rounds of applause by the audience.
Writers, poets, intellectuals, district officers, students and a jam packed hall of cultural and literary enthusiasts were present on the occasion.
The poets who presented their poetic renderings included Muhmmad Ali Nowsheen, Muhammad Hussain Rehnuma ,Skarma Junglay, Akhone Safdar Ali Safdar, Aga Syed Hadi Shah Aga, Bashir Ahmad Wafa, Haji Muhammad Ibrahim Rahee, Ghulam Qadir Zaki, Ashraf Ali Sagar, Muhammad Ali Khumar, Muhammad Jawad Jalib, Muhammad Asgar Aasi, Tsewang Rigzin, Mukhtar Zahid, Muhammad Hussain Fayaz, Fida Hussain Wazir Fida, Muhammad Taqi Khan Nayaab, Muhammad Ali Babaa, Zakir Hussain Karbalai, Nissar Hussain Trespone, Sajjad Ali Shujaat, Fida Ali Fida Karkith, Nassir Hussain Tumaily, Farooq Ahmad Noorie, Barkat Ali Lone Nizami, Abdul Majeed Sehra, Ahmad Hussain Olpa and Muhammad Khalil.
During the paper reading sessions Kacho Gulzar Hussain Khan presented his paper on the topic Ladakhi Folklore in the Contemporary Times, Muhammad Sadiq Hardassi on The King of Balti Behre Taweel- Bawa Johar Ali Johar, Raza Amjad Badgami Shina Dardi Folklore- An Overview and Muhammad Shafi Sagar on the topic The Role of Poetry in Reforming the Lives of Communities in Different Times.
Muhammad Abbass Skith, Zakir Hussain Zakir, Akhone Asgar Ali Basharat and Muhammad Abbass Zameer presented short stories while as folk songs were presented by Muhammad Ali and party, Muhammad Ishaq and party, Muhammad Abdullah, Muhammad Hussain Fayaaz and Ahsan Ali.
The proceedings of different sessions was conducted by Bashir Ahmad Wafa.
Academic Arrangement For Remote Areas With 30% Extra Emoluments
Srinagar, Feb 2018 (PTK): Minister for Education, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari today reaffirmed the resolve of the government to fill gaps in education sector and work towards consolidation of infrastructure and teaching staff in rural districts, including Ladakh region. Addressing a gathering of students here at the annual day function of All Ladakh Students Welfare Association Jammu (ALSWAJ), the Minister said as short-term measure, the Government has decided to engage candidates on academic arrangements to meet dearth of teaching staff and in areas like Leh and Kargil the selected candidates would be given 30 percent more emoluments than paid to the people in other areas. However, he said government has set the target to fill all vacancies of Assistant Professors, lecturers and teachers in next six months. Chairman Ladakh Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil Hajji Kachu Ali Khan, a large number of students and the association officer bearers including, the President Fayaz Ahmed was present at the function, which witnessed scintillating show by the Students featuring unique rich Balti culture and heritage. Recalling his recent visit to Ladakh with Chief Minister, the Minister said that he was highly impressed by seeing huge strength of Girl students at the Government Degree College Kargil adding this reflects the progressive approach of the community. The Minister also announced that the government has approved Degree College for Drass meeting the long pending demand of the locals. He said the government was ready to start the classes from the current session and sought the cooperation of LADHC Kargil chairman in identifying a spacious building to run the classes till the campus is established. He said government has decided to hire private buildings for new colleges contrary to the past practice of running these from Higher Secondary schools, which does not go well with the scheme of things. The Minister also informed that during her visit to Kargil, the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti sanctioned funds for up-gradation of the GDC, Hostel and College Buses. He said the government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is committed to meet the education requirements of all regions. He also announced that the government has allotted 5 kanal land for the establishment of girls’ hostel for Jammu. Appreciating the cultural presentations, the Minister said he felt proud to be part of the event which reflected that the young generation of Kargil has preserved their cultural heritage. He encouraged them to preserve it forever do not let it wade away with the coming of development which is knocking at their doors with the construction of proposed Zojila tunnel. In his address, chairman LAHDC, Kargil Kachu Ali Khan urged the youth of Ladakh to strive hard to meet their goals, especially achieving educational and professional excellence. He reminded them that the problems the region is facing on account of dearth of doctors, teachers and professors could be overcome only when they achieve distinction in the life. The Association also honored people from Kargil who have excelled in different fields of knowledge and skills.
Amir Calls For Preservation Of Cultural Heritage
Kargil Feb 2018(News Desk,VOL): Acting Chairman and Chief Executive Councilor Kargil Advocate Muhammad Amir today called for collective efforts to ensure the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage so as to ensure its proper safeguard for the future generations. The Acting CEC stated this while inaugurating the 2 Days District Level Multilingual Cultural and Literary Meet organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Kargil at Language Center here today. Around 70 writers, poets, scholars and folk artists of the Balti, Purgi and Shina Dardi tribal groups from different areas of the district are participating in the two days cultural and literary event.
Advisor to CEC Kargil Haji Muhammad Shafi, Assistant Commissioner Development Kargil Barkat Ali Lone Nizami and a number of senior officers from the District Administration were present on the occasion.
Amir while underlining the importance of upholding the glorious folk literature and ancestral values of the bygone era which form an integral part of the true identity of Kargil urged upon the need of cultural consciousness at the mass level so that every individual can contribute his bit in this regard. The Acting CEC also appealed the writers and poets participating in the two days meet to make the sessions fruitful, purposeful and result oriented by way of their valuable research oriented suggestions, inputs as well as constructive debates and deliberations adding this would enable the Academy to devise a roadmap for future course of action with regard to the challenges and opportunities of the vernacular languages.
Meanwhile 17 poets presented their poetic renderings while as research oriented papers on Shina Dardi and Ladakhi folklore besides short stories were presented during the first day of the event today. Moreover, folk music performances were also presented by the folk artists which won thundering rounds of applause by the audience.
Earlier during the welcome address Special Officer for Cultural Activities Kargil Muhammad Ali Tak while highlighting the aims and objectives of the two days event briefed about the endeavours of Cultural Academy towards the promotion and preservation of the cultural heritage of Kargil.
Writers, poets, intellectuals, district officers, students and jam packed hall of cultural and literary enthusiasts were present on the occasion.
On the second day of the two days meet, several poetry, short story and paper recital sessions as well as folk music performances are slated to be organized tomorrow.
CEC Leh Reviews Development Works
Leh, Feb 2018(News Desk,VOL): To speed up the incomplete works under UIDSSMT and AMRUT in Leh town keeping in mind the approaching working season, a meeting of all the four Executive Councilors Tsering Wangdus, Gyal P . Wangail, Tsering Sandup, Mumtaz Hussain, Councilor Upper Leh Gay Lobzang Nyantak, Councilor Lower Leh P. Wangdan and all the executing agencies headed by ADC, Leh Moses Kunzang was held under the chairmanship of CEC, LAHDC, Leh Dorjey Motup at Council Secretariat today afternoon.
Enquiring about the progress of all the ongoing works under UIDSSMT and AMRUT in Leh town, CEC DM fixed timeline for various works being executed by PHE, R&B, Construction, PDD Divisions and Municipality Deptts. Leh as per which PHE division will start laying of sewerage and drinking water pipe lines between Lamdon School to De-be-too from 3rd March and complete it by 15th April 2018 so that R&B Division will undertake the same road for BT and macadamization which will begin after 15th May. Likewise, DM directed PHE department to complete all the earth excavation works by ending April, 2018. To ensure smooth traffic movement during earth excavation works, CEC DM directed ADC, Leh to provide every possible support from district administration and stressed on close coordination between all the executing agencies taking both the Upper and Lower Leh Councillors in full confidence.
To ensure minimum inconvenience to the public during work execution, DM directed engineers to take works priority wise in consultation with Councilors.
DM also directed Exn. PDD to start the underground cabling of electric lines of Leh town including main market at the earliest.
ADC, Leh Moses Kunzang informed the meeting that due to escalation in the project cost of Sewerage Treatment Plant and Multi Tier Parking Facility for Leh town a meeting at State level will be convened soon to through these projects.
Stressing on earliest completion of all the works in Leh town, Councilor Gay Lobzang Nyantak requested executing agencies to ensure minimum inconvenience to the public specially farmers during sowing season.
Councilor Lower Leh P. Wangdan strongly stressed on earliest completion of all the works in Lowe Leh Constituency including macadamization of all the roads in Ibex Colony this year.
Sacred Month Being Observed At Leh
Leh, Feb 2018 (News Desk,VOL): The 1st month of Buddhist Calendar is observed as sacred month and during the entire month Buddhists of Leh organize various prayers at Monasteries and village level. On 14th and 15th of this calendar i.e. falling on 28th February and 1st of March 2018, on this occasion the devotees perform annual Gochak procession which starts from Leh Gate and passes through main market to Tsemo Monastery and culminate on the 3rd day morning at Leh Gate. Thousands of devotees participates in the Gochak prayers every year, in which devotees prostrate and march for whole days on the road.
Sheynam Gochak Tsogspa consisting of about 150-160 devotees have already started their prostration (Gochak) procession in Leh from 26.02.2018, and they will join the main Gochak party at Leh gate on 28.02.2018.
Moreover, the annual two day long Mela Mathoo Monastery is being celebrated at Mathoo (25 Kms) away from Leh Hqr. on 1st and 2nd of March 2018.
Elaborate Police / Security arrangements have been made for both the occasion to ensure safety / security of the devotees and maintenance of law and order on the occasion.
CM For Fast Tracking Recruitments
Jammu, February 26, (Scoop News)- Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has impressed upon the recruiting agencies like Public Service Commission (PSC) and Subordinate Services Recruitment Board (SSRB) to speed up recruitment process in the State even as she asked the Departments to update the vacancy positions and clear the backlog of class IV recruitments.
Chairing a review meeting in this regard here today, the Chief Minister advised the PSC and SSRB to devise a yearly calendar of recruitments to save time and make the selected candidates available to the Government in time. She specifically asked for pacing up of selections in School Education, Higher Education and Health & Medical Education Departments in view of the demand on ground.
Chairman, J&K Public Service Commission, Lateef u Zaman Deva; Chief Secretary, B. B. Vyas and administrative secretaries of all the Departments were present in the meeting.
Mehbooba Mufti also directed speeding up the process of DPCs so that more vacancies are cleared down below for appointment. She also directed fast tracking of the recruitment process of class IV vacancies which have crossed five thousand. She specifically directed the Departments to project their vacancy positions for the current year, refer these to recruiting agencies so that selections are made in time. She also asked the concerned Departments and recruiting agencies to follow the court cases rigorously.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed Department wise status of selections made, vacant positions and under process selections by the SSRB and the PSC.
The meeting was informed that 3290 selections were made by the PSC during the last three years, including 2095 during last year which also includes 510 selections eversince she held such a review meeting on November 22 last. Of the pending 2191 vacancies with the Commission, advertisement process for 1104 is on and soon selections in respect of 700 vacancies would be made, the meeting was informed. The meeting was informed that of the 88 cases of DPC received during last three years, 57 have been cleared and 31 are in various stages of clearance.
As for the SSRB, the Chief Minister was informed that
19, 583 selections were made during the last three years and currently selection process in respect of 9447 vacancies is on.
As for the Departmental Promotion Committees, 28733 cases have been cleared in various Departments while as 3254 such cases are in various stages of completion, the meeting was informed. Also more than five thousand vacancies of class IV vacancies are yet to be filled, the meeting was informed.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister was informed about the action taken on many of her directions during her last review meeting.
India’s Progress In Science & Technology Exponential’
New Delhi, Feb, 2018 (PIB):Union Minister for Science & Technology; Environment, Forest & Climate Change Dr. Harsh Vardhan recently said, India’s progress in the field of science and technology is exponential and science can address most of the problems the society is facing now.
Dr Harsh Vardhan was talking to hundreds of school children, who turned up at his residence to see a limited exhibition, showcasing advancements in Science & Technology in India. He had already interacted with thousands of school children to generate scientific temperament among them. The exhibitions include the country’s advancement in aerospace, biotechnology, nanotechnology, green energy, plant genetics, technology to aid healthcare, etc.
The Minister has also been advocating the children to be ambassadors of environmental protection. He told them, the hazard of climate change and global warming is manifesting into a reality and people should take conscious efforts in mitigating stress on environment and climate. As developmental efforts need to be sustained, its impact on climate should be mitigated through a series of efforts, including environment-friendly lifestyle.
Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has drawn up a national campaign weaving around some 500 simple lifestyle habits that can be easily adopted, in an effort to sensitise the hazards of climate and global warming. The campaign named “Green Good Deeds” can have a cascading effect, if everyone adopts even one deed a day.
During the last one month, the Ministry has invited thousands of children from various schools to enlist their support to the campaign. Besides government officials, teachers, professionals, members of voluntary organisations and general public from across Delhi have also come forward to support the cause.
“Every citizen should become a ‘Green Volunteer’ so that we could relay the environment we inherited from our ancestors to the generation that is yet to take birth. That’s our moral responsibility,” said Dr. Vardhan.
He said the present government is undertaking several good deeds including “Green Good Deeds”. He pointed there has been intervention from the highest political level to bring down the level of air pollution in Delhi and its surrounding areas, which has become an international subject of discussion. All states involved in stubble burning have been told that they need to take firm measures to curb it by the next season. In fact, even budgetary allocations were made to support the efforts of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and the NCT of Delhi to address air pollution. The government have also decided to subsidise machinery required for in-situ management of crop residue to prevent burning of stubble in the next winter. The minister said, he would like all, particularly youth and children to understand that our deeds have to be environment-friendly. Dr Vardhan said, the hazard of climate change and global warming is manifesting into a reality and people should take conscious efforts in mitigating further stress on climate.
There should be a judicious balance of sustainable economic development and environmental protection. While the role of the government is to prepare roadmap for environmental protection, adherence to the rules and regulations is the primary responsibility of the stakeholders. Unless there is public involvement and commitment, no such drive can be taken to its logical conclusion. Like Corporate Social Responsibility, it is the Green Social Responsibility of every citizen to maintain environment.
15th Finance Commission Invites Suggestions
New Delhi, Feb 2018 (PIB):The Fifteenth Finance Commission has invited suggestions/views on issues related to the terms of reference from the members of the general public, institutions and organizations.
The Commission shall review the current status of the finance, deficit, debt levels, cash balances and fiscal discipline efforts of the Union and the States, and recommend a fiscal consolidation roadmap for sound fiscal management. The Commission shall take into account the responsibility of the Central Government and State Governments to adhere to appropriate levels of general and consolidated government debt and deficit levels, while fostering higher inclusive growth in the country, guided by the principles of equity, efficiency and transparency. The Commission may also examine whether revenue deficit grants be provided at all.
Some of the key issues for consideration by the commission are as under:
The impact on the fiscal situation of the Union Government of substantially enhanced tax devolution to States following recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission, coupled with the continuing imperative of the national development programme including New India – 2022;
The impact of the GST, including payment of compensation for possible loss of revenues for 5 years, and abolition of a number of cesses, earmarking thereof for compensation and other structural reforms programme, on the finances of Centre and States.
Efforts made by the States in expansion and deepening of tax net under GST;
Efforts and Progress made in moving towards replacement rate of population growth
Progress made in increasing tax/non-tax revenues, promoting savings by adoption of Direct Benefit Transfers and Public Finance Management System, promoting digital economy and removing layers between the government and the beneficiaries;
Progress made in sanitation, solid waste management and bringing in behavioural change to end open defecation.
The Fifteenth Finance Commission as constituted in pursuance of clause (1) of Article 280 of the Constitution, w.e.f. 27th November, 2017 shall make its report available by 30th October, 2019, covering a period of five years commencing 1st April, 2020. The Commission shall use the population data of 2011 while making its recommendations.
All interested organizations and individuals may send their suggestions/views by 30th June 2018 in any of the following manner:
By Post, addressed to the Secretary, fifteenth Finance Commission,
9th Floor, Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan, Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi-110001.
Through e-mail to: secy-xvfc@gov.in
Through website http://fincomindia.nic.in by clicking on hyperlink
‘call for suggestions’.
The detailed Terms of Reference of the Commission has been issued vide notification Number S.O.3755(E) dated 27th November, 2017.
http://www.egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2017/180483.pdf
EU: All Israeli Settlements ‘Illegal, Obstacle To Peace’
Feb 2018 (Press TV): The European Union (EU)’s top diplomat, Federica Mogherini, has stressed that all Israeli settlements are illegal, condemning them as “an obstacle to peace.”
“We have stressed, repeatedly, that all settlements are illegal and are an obstacle to peace,” High Representative Mogherini said before talks between EU and Arab League foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday, which she said would focus on “how to bring the Middle East peace process forward.”
About 600,000 Israelis live in over 230 illegal settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and East Jerusalem al-Quds.
Mogherini also commented on the recent closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem al-Quds in protest against Israeli measures, saying “The special status and the character of the city [Jerusalem al-Quds] must be preserved and respected by all.”
“We hope that a solution can be found quickly, Jerusalem is a holy city to the three monotheistic religions,” she added.
For his part, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi, who arrived in Brussels for talks on the so-called Middle East peace process, stressed that the only solution “is to reach a lasting peace that again will ensure that East Jerusalem [al-Quds] is the capital of a Palestinian State.”
Mogherini expressed the EU’s readiness to “offer the redeployment of our mission EUBAM Rafah (the European Union Border Assistance Mission in Rafah),” a Palestinian city and refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip and to “support even more the economic development of Gaza and obviously also increase our humanitarian aid with the specific focus on hospitals in Gaza.”
Safadi said, “We must also make sure that UNRWA (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) continues to deliver its vital services to millions of refugees across its five areas of operation.”
In a rare move, church leaders in Palestine decided on Sunday to close the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem al-Quds until further notice to express dissent against new Israeli tax measures and a proposed property law that they say is an attack on Christians.
Recently, the municipality of Jerusalem al-Quds canceled a tax exemption it had granted to the church-owned commercial property in the city.
Furthermore, Israeli lawmakers have proposed a bill that would allow the regime to expropriate land in Jerusalem al-Quds sold by churches to private real estate companies in recent years.
Church officials, however, say such a law would make it more difficult for them to find buyers for church-owned land-sales that contribute to operating costs of their religious institutions.
US President Donald Trump on December 6 formally recognized Jerusalem al-Quds as the “capital” of Israel and announced plans to move the American embassy to the occupied city.
Google Not Responsible For Checking Links: Court
Feb, 2018 (Press TV): An appeals court in Germany has decided to uphold a lower court ruling which stipulates that Google has no responsibility to check the content of links generated by its search engine to see whether they are free from defamatory content.
Presiding Judge Gregor Galke, from the Federal Court of Justice, ruled on Tuesday that "a general responsibility to regulate is incompatible with the function of search engines," adding that forcing Google and others to check every link would practically paralyze the service.
“Without the help of such search engines it would be impossible for individuals to get meaningful use out of the internet due to the unmanageable flood of data it contains,” said the court in a statement.
“Instituting a general duty to inspect the content would seriously call into question the business model of search engines, which is approved by lawmakers and wanted by society.”
The verdict came after a German couple brought a case against Google, arguing that the US-based internet company should be responsible for blocking links to sites where they said they were defamed.
The German court, however, said Google was supposed to act on links where users have reported “concrete evidence” of violations of law, such as child pornography or acts of violence.
Calls for removal of online content directly related to people are part of a broader debate dubbed the “right to be forgotten” which came in May 2014, when the Court of Justice of the European Union (ECJ) ruled that individuals can request search engines to remove inadequate or irrelevant information from web results appearing under searches for their names. Google has accepted to remove more than one million website links since then.
The ruling to exempt Google from monitoring search results comes against the backdrop of similar calls on European regulators to force internet companies to improve their monitoring of the content, especially those related to violence. The advocates of such calls argue that many of the attacks launched against civilians in Western Europe over the past years have been orchestrated using social networks or have been inspired by online content.
Those providing social networking services like Facebook or video-sharing website YouTube have actively sought to increase checks in a bid to avoid punishments.
Anti-Iran UN Resolution Vetoed
Feb 2018 (Press TV): A senior Iranian diplomat says Russia's vote against a United Nations draft resolution aimed at pressuring Iran over alleged missiles provision to Yemeni forces represented another setback for the United States.
Russia on Monday vetoed a resolution at the UN Security Council, presented by Britain and strongly backed by the United States, that would call for "additional measures" against Iran over accusations that it violated the 2015 arms embargo on the war-torn Arabian Peninsula state. The draft resolution gained 11 favorable votes at the 15-member Security Council but was blocked by Russia's veto. China and Kazakhstan abstained, while Bolivia also voted against the measure.
A group of so-called independent United Nations experts monitoring the sanctions on Yemen reported to the Security Council in January that it had “identified missile remnants, related military equipment and military unmanned aerial vehicles that are of Iranian origin and were brought into Yemen after the imposition of the targeted arms embargo.”
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araqchi rejected the "spiteful" allegations.
"Based on a one-sided report, they intended to pass a resolution that also referred to Iran, but they failed," Araqchi said.
"This is yet another failure by the US government to drag Iran to the Security Council," he added.
"Over the past year, the US government has on many occasions tried to one again drag Iran to the Security Council and it has failed every single time and this is another sign of the US isolation on the international scene and the strength of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the senior Iranian diplomat pointed out.
He emphasized that the "biased accusations" were absolutely clear in the way the report was formulated by the UN panel.
He said the UN experts had "made their own judgment even before travelling to Iran to discuss and hear our comments."
It was clear how others had influenced the report, Araqchi added.
"We will definitely continue our policies in the region in a way that will meet the country's interests," he said. The Houthi movement has been defending Yemen against a bloody Saudi-led military campaign, which was launched in 2015 with the help of the US and the UK to reinstall the country’s former Riyadh-friendly government. During a meeting of the Security Council on February 21, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia voiced his country's opposition to the Security Council resolution.“We do not like condemnations at all, no, in general,” Nebenzia said, adding, “It is a resolution about the extension of the working group, not about Iran. So we should concentrate on extending the working group first.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi earlier this month once again rejected the allegations about the Islamic Republic's provision of missiles to Yemeni forces, saying such claims are lies and a foolish scenario. "Iran's missile program is for defensive and deterrent [purposes] and claims about the dispatch of missiles to Yemen despite the all-out blockade on this country are lies and a foolish scenario designed to exonerate the aggressors," Qassemi said.The chief commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) also in January dismissed the allegations leveled by the US and its allies about the Islamic Republic’s provision of missiles to Yemeni forces. After Russia vetoed the Western bids at the Security Council, the United States threatened unilateral action against Tehran.
"If Russia is going to continue to cover for Iran, then the US and our partners need to take action on our own. If we're not going to get action on the [Security] Council, then we have to take our own actions," US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley told reporters on Monday during a visit to Honduran capital Tegucigalpa.
However, she did not specify what kind of action could be taken. "Obviously this vote isn't going to make the decision on the nuclear deal. What I can say is it doesn't help," Haley said, referring to the multilateral nuclear agreement reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries in 2015. She added, "That just validated a lot of what we already thought which is Iran gets a pass for its dangerous and illegal behavior." Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council – the US, France, Britain, Russia and China – plus Germany signed the nuclear agreement on July 14, 2015 and started implementing it on January 16, 2016.
Under the JCPOA, Iran undertook to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.
Trump has repeatedly described the JCPOA, which was negotiated under his predecessor, Barack Obama, as “the worst and most one-sided transaction Washington has ever entered into,” a characterization he often used during his presidential campaign, and threatened to tear it up.
Trump on January 12 reluctantly agreed to waive sanctions against Iran that were lifted as part of the landmark deal, but said it would be the last time he issued such a waiver unless conditions were met.
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