The Tribune, Chandigarh, India

	JU gets little support from govt for holding science congress Arteev Sharma Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 With just five days left for the 101st Indian Science Congress to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on February 3, the University of Jammu, which is hosting the mega event, is yet to put in place the adequate arrangements - courtesy “lack of cooperation” from the state government. Till now, around 6,000 delegates, including Noble laureates and top scientists of the country and foreign nations, have registered themselves for the event. Sources said that the university authorities were finding it difficult to finish off the preparations and arrangements being made for the upcoming event due to “lack of support” from the state government. “The state government had earlier announced to provide Rs 6 crore to the university for the Indian Science Congress event. The state government has sanctioned just Rs 2 crore for the event, but the amount has not been released so far,” sources said. A senior professor of the university, who is associated with the event and wished not to be named, said the university had not received the “expected support” from the state government, which had led to several problems in finishing off the arrangements. “Due to non-availability of adequate funds, we faced problems in making some advance payments to the people who have been engaged to put in place necessary arrangements,” the sources said, adding that the officials who were part of the High-Level Monitoring Committee have shown “least interest” in the event. The 23-member High Level Monitoring Committee, headed by Principal Secretary, Planning Development Department, was constituted on November 29 last year. The committee include Additional Director General of Police (Security), Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, and Inspector General of Police (Traffic), Jammu. “Only a few review meetings were conducted by senior officials of the state administration. It should have been an exhaustive exercise,” the senior professor said. On January 8, the state government had ordered that no accommodation in the State Circuit House and Guest House at Jammu would be available except for the dignitaries, to be determined by the Hospitality and Protocol Department. When contacted, Prof Mohan Paul Singh Ishar, Vice Chancellor (VC), University of Jammu, however, said the arrangements were in the final stage and all preparations would be made in advance. “We have started the process of registration for the event. We are finalising the arrangements and everything will be done in a smooth and hassle-free manner,” Prof Ishar said. The VC said the state government had made a commitment for the release of Rs 2 crore for the event. “We are hopeful of getting the funds shortly,” he said. According to the university, Vice-President of India Mohammad Ansari would attend the valedictory function on February 7. Former Presidents Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil, several Union ministers and Chief Ministers of various states are also expected to take part in the event. Indian-American NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who was earlier expected to attend the Science Congress, is not participating in the event. Grant not given * The state government had earlier announced ~6-crore grant to Jammu University for the Indian Science Congress. * It has sanctioned just ~2 crore for the event, but the amount has not been released so far.
	RM college holds poster-making competition Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 An inter-college symposium, slogan-writing and poster-making competitions were held at the RM College of Education, Chowadhi, Sainik Colony, here. The competition was organised in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Axis Bank. Vijay Bakaya was the chief guest, while Girish Ranjan, Senior Divisional Manager, IOCL, SK Jain, president, Vichar Kranti Manch, and Vinay Saini, Manager, Axis Bank, were the guests of honour. Dr Sarfaraz Asgher, Department of Geography, University of Jammu, Parimal Kumar, Manager IOCL, and Trustee Rita Mengi were the adjudicators. Principal of the college PK Dhar was present. The function started with the lighting of the traditional lamp and followed by the welcome address by the Principal. Chairman of the college Rameshwar Mengi declared the results. Later, participants and winners were awarded certificates and mementos by the dignitaries. Harpreet Kour compered the programme and a vote of thanks was presented by Priyanka Sharma. Government PG College of Education, MAM College, MIER College of Education, Atman College of Education, JK College of Education, Galaxy College of Education, Handa College of Education, Ranjit College of Education, RM College of Education, New Modern College of Education and Sai Shyam College of Education participated in competitions.
	To checkmate NC, Congress demands 2,500 admn units Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 To counter coalition partner National Conference’s attempt to take political mileage on the issue of creating new administrative units, the Congress today moved one step forward by favouring the creation of as many as 2,500 administrative units across the state. The NC has been demanding implementation of the Mushtaq Ahmed Ganai Committee report, which has recommended nearly 950 administrative units. By raising the demand for 2,500 new units, the Congress has tried to blunt the attack of the NC, which was trying to project that the former was opposing the creation of new units. Throughout the day, hectic parleys were on among Congress leaders to solve the issue without giving the impression that the party has succumbed to the NC. Congress leaders, who are members of the Cabinet Sub-Committee (CSC) on the creation of new administrative units, reached Jammu this morning and held discussions with party colleagues. A meeting of the CSC members, comprising NC and Congress ministers, was convened to solve the issue amicably. Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, who is heading the CSC, rushed to Delhi this evening after the CSC meeting to brief the party high command about today’s development. To placate annoyed NC leaders, the Deputy Chief Minister today assured its coalition partner that the CSC would submit its report on time. The report would then be placed before the Cabinet for discussion. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had a set a deadline of January 31 for the CSC to submit its report. To counter the NC attack that the Congress was opposing creation of new administrative units, the Deputy Chief Minister recalled that it was during the time of former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad that a committee headed by S S Bleoria was constituted to identify areas for creating new administrative units. “Unfortunately, the Azad government could not complete its tenure and the process could not be completed,” he said. Downplaying reports that the Chief Minister had threatened to resign on the issue of administrative units, Tara Chand expressed ignorance about such a report. “I don’t think that the Chief Minister has threatened to resign,” he said while exuding confidence that the present government would complete its full term. He, however, said that even one of the NC ministers had termed the Ganai report “discriminatory”. He said the CSC had visited all 22 districts of the state and received more than 2,500 representations to ensure equitable distribution of the new units in all three regions of the state. Attempt to blunt NC attack The NC has been demanding implementation of the Mushtaq Ahmed Ganai Committee report, which has recommended nearly 950 administrative units. By raising the demand for 2,500 new units, the Congress has tried to blunt the attack of the NC, which was trying to project that the former was opposing the creation of new units. Soz to arrive in Jammu today Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Saifuddin Soz is arriving in Jammu on Thursday. During his stay in Jammu, Soz will interact with party workers to get feedback on the controversy over creation of new administrative units.
	Bikram Chowk-JU road to remain closed from February 3-7 Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 One of the busiest roads in the winter capital of the state, from Bikram Chowk to the University of Jammu (JU), will remain closed for the vehicular traffic from February 3 to 7, during the five-day mega event of the 101st Indian Science Congress, which is scheduled to be held in the Jammu University on these dates. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Traffic, Pawan Parihar said the road from Bikram Chowk to the university and Bagh-e-Bahu Road would be closed for vehicular traffic for commoners due to security reasons. “We are in the processes of planning the traffic system for these dates, but we have to close it during the Indian Science Congress in the university due to security reasons,” said the SSP. The Indian Science Congress will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on February 3. More than 7,000 delegates, including Noble laureates and top scientists of the country and foreign nations, have registered themselves for the event. Vice-President of India Mohammad Ansari will also attend the valedictory function on February 7. Former Presidents Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil, several Union ministers, Chief Ministers of various states and Indian-American NASA astronaut Sunita Williams are also expected to take part in the event.
	Coalition staging drama on Ganai report: Oppn Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 Opposition parties have slammed the National Conference-Congress coalition over staging a drama on the issue of creating new administrative units. The Opposition alleged that both coalition partners have been raking up the issue only to hide their misdeeds. Accusing the Congress-NC coalition government of “misleading and hoodwinking” people of the state on the issue of new administrative units, BJP state president Jugal Kishore Sharma today asked the Congress to make its stand public on the issue. Sharma said the Cabinet Sub-Committee on new administrative units headed by the Congress could not be trusted as it was “under the baneful influence of the NC, which was administering threat after threat that it would implement the anti-Jammu recommendations (of the Mushtaq Ahmed Ganai Committee).” The recommendations of the Ganai committee, if implemented, would be unfair to the marginalised people of Jammu province and Ladakh region, who constitute more than half of the state’s population and occupy more than 89 per cent of J&K’s land area, he added. “The BJP wants the Congress-NC coalition to create new administrative units on the basis of the criteria laid down as well as take into consideration the fact that the balance area in Jammu province where developmental activities could be undertaken is more as compared to the Valley. Bhim Singh, chief patron of National Panthers Party (NPP), said NC and Congress leaders had started playing a cat-and-mouse game only to befool the people and divert their attention from corruption and “loot of the state exchequer in their five years’ rule in J&K”.
	43-kg gold offered at Vaishno Devi shrine found impure Our Correspondent Katra, January 29 An RTI application has revealed that 43 kg of gold and 5,781 kg of silver offered by devotees at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the last five years have been found to be impure. Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Pankaj Gupta said, “193.5 kg of gold and 8,163 kg of silver was offered at the shrine in the last five years. Of this, 43 kg of gold and 5,781 kg of silver turned out to be impure. We send the precious metal offerings to the government for converting them into gold and silver coins which the devotees buy as souvenirs.” The Board officials said some devotees may have bought gold or silver without checking its purity. When the Shrine Board authorities took the gold offerings to the Indian Government Mint, Mumbai, for refining, assaying and fabrication, only 150.5 kg of pure gold was retrieved. A 43-kg metal chunk was found to be impure. The information was given out by the Shrine Board in response to an RTI application filed by Jammu-based RTI activist Raj Kumar. According to a similar RTI query, out of 8,163 kg of silver offerings received by the shrine between 2008 and 2009 to 2011 and 2012, only 2,381 kg of silver was retrieved at the Metals and Minerals Trading Corporation of India Ltd, Delhi. The Vaishno Devi shrine is visited by over 1 crore devotees every year. All that glitters is not pure * A total of 193.5 kg of gold and 8,163 kg of silver was offered at the shrine in the last five years. Of this, 43 kg of gold and 5,781 kg of silver turned out to be impure * The information was given out by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in response to an RTI application filed by Jammu-based RTI activist Raj Kumar
	No PM can revoke J&K’s special status, says Omar London, January 29 Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said no Prime Minister can revoke Article 370 of the Constitution granting special status to the state "without calling into question" its accession to India. Dismissing a question on whether he was worried at the prospect of BJP Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi becoming the Prime Minister, Omar said, "It does not matter whether he is the Prime Minister or the President or (holds) any other position. "Constitutionally, he cannot revoke Article 370 without calling into question the accession of J&K to India. Now, as Prime Minister of India, if he wants to rewrite accession to India, he is welcome to it. But I do not think any Prime Minister would be as foolhardy as that," he said. Omar was answering questions on BBC's “Hard Talk” programme during which he more then held his ground in the face of tough questioning by its anchor Stephen Sackur. The Chief Minister was asked about Modi's suggestion for a debate on Article 370 to which he had responded by offering to do that debate with the BJP leader "at any time, any place". He said Modi had not responded to this himself but "one of his minions gave a statement that he is too busy to discuss Article 370 and, to make it worse, he is far too more important to discuss it with somebody like you (Omar)". Sackur remarked that he would be "extraordinarily worried" because Modi could be the next Prime Minister if opinion polls were to be believed because the BJP leader favours doing away with J&K's special status. "I am not worried," Omar told him. — PTI
	3 yrs on, lake project in Kathua incomplete Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Pucca Kotha (Billawar), Jan 29 Notwithstanding claims of the authorities to make the artificial lake project functional soon, locals expressed resentment over the approach of the executing agency in getting the project completed. The artificial lake project in the Kandi belt of Kathua district, if completed, will change the socio-economic condition of people living in nearly 120 villages and hamlets of the region. The work to construct an artificial lake on the Tarnah river, a tributary of the Ujh, was started three years ago. Though the work was scheduled to complete within a year, till date the project is incomplete. “After the artificial lake will be made functional, the level of the ground water will automatically increase in this belt and people will opt for new techniques of irrigation,” said Tarseem Khajuria, local sarpanch. He said the authorities seemed to be "non-serious" in making the project functional. Khajuria said the civil work of the project had been almost complete, but the mechanical work was going on at a snail's pace so there was an inordinate delay in the completion of the project. "The project is the only ray of hope for changing socio-economic conditions of the residents of the Kandi belt where water is a luxury,” Khajuria said. The artificial lake will not only raise the water level in the region but also help in attracting tourists here as hundreds of pilgrims visit Mata Sukrala Devi temple here every year. Assistant Executive Engineer, Flood Control, Mohammad Salim Malik, however, claimed that the project would be functional soon. "The civil work is already complete and mechanical work is also going on,” he said.
	HC upholds demotion orders of CRPF officer Ishfaq Tantry Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 The Jammu and Kashmir High Court today dismissed a writ petition by CRPF Inspector General (IG) SS Sandhu who had challenged his demotion orders issued by the Union Home Ministry in 2013. The High Court, while upholding his demotion orders, observed that Sandhu had concealed material facts from the authorities while seeking his promotion. It was perhaps for the first time in the 74-year history of the CRPF that a senior officer was demoted from the IG rank. IG (Operations), CRPF, Kashmir, SS Sandhu was on April 3, 2013, demoted by the Union Home Ministry to the rank of the DIG after discrepancies were found in his physical fitness records by a medical board set up by it. In its subsequent orders on April 4, the Home Ministry had directed that after his demotion to the DIG rank, Sandhu be posted as the DIG at the CRPF headquarters in New Delhi. However, Sandhu, who headed the operations of the paramilitary force in Kashmir till April 3, 2013, had challenged his demotion before the J&K High Court by filing a writ petition on April 8, 2013, in which he had submitted that the principles of natural justice were not followed by the authorities while dealing with his case. The single bench of Justice Ali Mohammad Magray, which dismissed Sandhu's petition today, said in its judgment: “Though the counsel for the petitioner has sought to rake up the issue of malice and malafide, but given the demeanour of the petitioner, he has not only misled the Home Secretary but also suppressed and concealed the material facts. The plea of malafide and malice has to be taken with a pinch of salt.” While seeking quashment of demotion and posting orders passed by the Home Ministry orders against him, Sandhu, in his petition, had termed his demotion and his subsequent new posting orders as “arbitrary, invidiously discriminatory and violative” of the guarantees of the petitioner granted under Article 311 (2) of the Constitution. The Home Ministry in the case was represented by Assistant Solicitor General SA Makru, while the petitioner was represented by advocate RA Jan.
	Bollywood fails to break Kashmir stereotype, says Hurriyat leader Srinagar, January 29 Chairman of the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani today said Bollywood had failed to break the stereotype of Kashmir being a land torn by violence. Hurriyat Conference spokesperson Ayaz Akbar said not a single film in Bollywood depicted the sensibilities of the people in the region, especially the human rights violations they face. “Films are a medium of mass awareness, highlighting the ground realities. However, Bollywood, so far, has been a disappointment for Kashmiris,” Akbar said. About rumours that a “kangri” (firepot) was hurled at a crew member of “Haider” in the Zaina Kadal area of Srinagar while shooting yesterday, which were later rubbished by the police, the group held that the Kashmiris were known for their hospitality and had always been warm and receptive to non-natives, including Bollywood stars. “There have been very few to no incidents of violence against Bollywood actors whenever they have shot in the Valley. Hence, people also expect a positive response from them. The films made on Kashmir have always disappointed the people here,” the Hurriyat spokesperson said. Vishal Bhardwaj’s “Haider” includes Tabu, Irrfan Khan, Shahid Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor. The crew has been visiting various locales in Srinagar and the outskirts as the shooting of the film is in its completion stage. — TNS
	Kichloo reviews security scenario in Valley Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 Minister of State for Home Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo yesterday convened a meeting to assess the security situation prevailing in the Kashmir province. The meeting was attended by Inspector General of Police, DIGs of south, north and central Kashmir, DIG traffic, DIG Armed police, DIG CID, Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) of Srinagar, Budgam, SP security and SP police control room. An official spokesperson said the minister appreciated the role of the Police Department in maintaining law and order in the Valley and expressed his satisfaction over the prevailing security scenario. “The minister was informed about the steps being taken by the Police Department in maintaining peace in the Valley. He was told that the Republic Day was celebrated peacefully across the Valley,” he said.
	Army holds security review meeting in Rajouri Our Correspondent Rajouri, January 29 A high-level security meeting was held at the headquarters of counter-insurgency force (Romeo Force) at Palma near Rajouri city today. The Joint Security Group Conference was chaired by Maj Gen PS Rajeshwar, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Romeo Force. Senior officers from all security forces and Intelligence agencies, Danesh Rana, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Rajouri-Poonch range, Hemant Kumar Sharma and Sajjad Ahmed Khan, Deputy Commissioners, Rajouri and Poonch, respectively, and Mubassir Latifi, Superintendent of Police, Rajouri, were present. The GOC of Romeo Force appreciated the high level of synergy in operations exhibited by all agencies in recent times and encouraged all present to overcome contemporary challenges and work towards enhancing confidence among the people. “It is the prime duty of all concerned and requirement of the following months to be vigilant, alive and responsive to the developing situation to maintain peace and ensure a peaceful and conducive environment” said the GOC. While briefing the gathering about the prevailing internal security situation, DIG Danesh Rana elaborated on the steps initiated to ensure communal harmony in the region. It was decided that various measures must be adopted to keep the area peaceful and free of any terrorist-related incidents.
	Protesters torch car in Budgam Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 A car was allegedly torched by a group of protesters after it hit a pedestrian in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on yesterday evening. The police said a Santro hit and injured a pedestrian, Ghulam Mohammad Mala, a resident of Sebdan, at Sebdan, in the jurisdiction of the Budgam police station. “At the same time, some persons were protesting against the Power Development Department for transformer damage nearby. Some protesters set the car ablaze, damaging it,” a police spokesman said in Srinagar. The spokesman said a case was registered at the Budgam police station and a manhunt was on to nab those involved in the incident.
	Strikes in Pulwama, Shopian villages over tehsil status Our Correspondent Pulwama, January 29 As the Cabinet meet on granting administrative status to various villages and towns is being held on Friday, there seems to be no end to the strikes in various villages of Pulwama and Shopian districts for the grant of tehsil status. Residents of various areas, including Littar, Kakapora, Imam Sahab and Kaprin, have been demanding grant of the tehsil status to these places. The strike in Pulwama being observed at Littar entered the 19th day and all activities in the areas remained suspended while the traffic on the inter-district road remained suspended for the 12th day. The strike at Kaprin in Shopian entered the eighth day, while the strike at Imam Sahib entered the third day. Meanwhile, the civil society of Pulwama has urged the government to end the tehsil status row at the earliest as it has divided people of the district and also hampered normal life and economic activities. Residents from various places in these two districts of Pulwama and Shopian in south Kashmir started demanding the tehsil status for their respective villages after the Cabinet Sub-Committee held its meeting here early this month.
	Vigilance told to probe land acquisition for Uri-II plant Majid Jahangir Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 The state government has asked the State Vigilance Organisation (SVO) to probe an alleged multi-crore land scam in which government officials in connivance with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) had mutated records during the acquisition of land for the Uri-II Hydroelectric Power Plant near the Line of Control (LoC). The SVO was asked to probe the matter after preliminary investigations found “enough evidences” that evacuee property, nullah and government land in Jabla village, close to the LoC, had been mutated by Revenue employees in connivance with senior government officials and drawn huge compensation from the NHPC, which later utilised the land for the power project. The inquiry has found that the former Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Uri, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, who is presently posted as the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, did not cooperate with the probe as he did not provide records of the land acquisition by the NHPC. “A preliminary inquiry report has been submitted by the Assistant Commissioner, Revenue, Baramulla, wherein it has been reported that due to non-cooperation and non-production of records by the Collectorate of the NHPC pertaining to land acquisition case, the inquiry has remained inconclusive,” Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, in a letter to the Director, Vigilance Organisation, Kashmir, said. “The inquiry official has perused the records of tehsildar, Uri, and also visited the spot, which has been reflected in the preliminary report wherein he has reported the matter needs a full dress enquiry. In view of the above, it is requested that a full dress enquiry be initiated in the matter by your organisation for taking the matter to its logical conclusion for taking action against the defaulter, if any,” the DC added. The 13-page inquiry report by the senior official has found that title of many kanlas of state land under different survey numbers has been changed by officials. The inquiry has found that even the land record of evacuee has also been mutated. The inquiry was started after a complaint was lodged by Jabla resident Shabir Ahmed Mir with the Prime Minister’s office alleging that then Naib Tehsildar Bashir Ahmed Mir, ex-SDM, Uri, Manzoor Ahmed Qadri, at present Additional Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, Dr Prasad, environment officer, NHPC-Uri II, and Nazi-ud-Din Mir, Girdwara, Uri, had embezzled Rs 8 crore on the basis of illegal, fraud, forged mutations in land records at Jabla village in Baramulla district. The ‘scam’ Government officials in connivance with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation had mutated records during acquisition of land for the Uri-II Hydroelectric Power Plant near the Line of Control.
	Beating Retreat marks end of Republic Day celebrations Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 The Beating Retreat at Maulana Azad Stadium here this evening marked the grand finale of the Republic Day celebrations. It was witnessed by Governor NN Vohra, his wife Usha Vohra and several ministers. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Mubarak Gul, Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council Javed Rana, legislators, senior civil, police and security forces officers and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. A colourful brass band, pipes and drums show was presented by the Army, BSF and the J&K Police on the occasion. The contingents received great applause from the audience. The items presented in the brass band display included “Mahroon Silver and Gold”, “Sitare Hind”, “Vijay Bharat”, “Siki Mola” and “Sare Jahan Se Achha”, and in pipe band show, the contingents presented “Sam Bahadur”, “Sherpa Valley”, “Himalaya”, “Sherpa, Cutty’s Wedding”, “Mcleod of Raasay”, “Veer Sachin” and “Abide With Me”. The Governor gave away prizes to various brass band, pipes and drum contingents for their outstanding display on the occasion. He also presented trophies and cash awards to J&K Police Public School, Miran Sahib (Boys), Lord Shiva Day Boarding School, Ghou Manasan (Girls), for the best march past, Government SRML Higher Secondary School, Jammu (Boys), Combined (GHS City Chowk, GHS Dogra Hall, GHS Kacchi Chowani, Jammu) (Girls) for the best band contingent, Army Public School, Jammu, for the best cultural item and the Directorate of School Education, Jammu, for the best tableaux presented at the state-level Republic Day celebrations held at MA Stadium. The spectacular fireworks added colour to the closure of the Beating Retreat ceremony. The function concluded with “Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara” and the National Anthem.
	Gulmarg to host ski championships in Feb Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 The Gulmarg ski resort in north Kashmir will host three national-level ski and snowboarding championships next month. The events will be organised by the Winter Games Association of Jammu and Kashmir (WGAJK) from February 15 to 21. This was stated by the WGAJK publicity secretary, quoting president of the association Farooq Shah in a statement issued today. The Tourism Department has not organised any major event so far this season at Gulmarg. For the last two years, the department, buoyed by the tourist footfalls, would organise New Year galas, including musical events and firecracker shows, especially at Gulmarg. After the row over installation of individual sewage treatment plants that forced the closure of several hotels, including at Gulmarg, the Tourism Department gave such events a miss this season. Meanwhile, the 10-day ongoing skiing coaching camp organised by the J&K State Cable Car Corporation and the Winter Games Association of Jammu and Kashmirat Gulmarg will conclude tomorrow. The camp is being held under the supervision of a Japanese ski coach, Mayako. She is being assisted by a local skier, Arif Khan, who has represented the country in several international sporting events. The selected skiers will represent the state team in the forthcoming national alpine junior and sub-junior skiing championship to be held at Auli in Uttarakhand, the WGAJK publicity secretary said.
	Army soldiers save pregnant woman Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 The Army personnel have yet again saved the life of a pregnant woman at Machil near the Line of Control in frontier Kupwara district. The 25-year-old woman, Ateeqa Begum, of Ringbala village, who was seven-month pregnant, developed complications, premature and preterm labour on Tuesday. “The Army soldiers of the Machhal Brigade rose up to the occasion and a Medical Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of 45 Rashtriya Rifles, Naib Subedar Prasant Dubey, rushed to the village along with the quick reaction team. The patient was administered immediate medical support. Seeing the critical condition of the woman, the soldiers organised a stretcher and successfully evacuated to the road head, traversing for over two-and-a-half hours through five to six feet of snow and highly avalanche-prone route. Meanwhile, the medical officer, Capt Arjune of 45 RR, reached T Sunt village from Dudi along with the Army ambulance vehicle,” an Army official said. He immediately resuscitated the woman. Noticing that the heart rate of the baby was dropping and the baby was distressed, he immediately administered necessary medicines to the woman and successfully arrested the preterm labour and saved the lives of both the mother and the baby. Thereafter, the patient was safely evacuated to the Dudi Primary Health Centre (PHC) under the supervision of an Army doctor, which involved yet another journey by road for over one-and-a-half hours through a treacherous road,” he said. The woman delivered the baby at the health centre. The Army had on earlier two occasions saved the lives of two women and their newly born babies under similar harsh weather conditions on January 5 and 20.
	Vohra apprised of plight of political migrants Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 A delegation of the Political Migrant Front led by its chairman, Sheikh Mohi-ud-Din Shabnam, met Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhawan here today. The delegation apprised the Governor about the plight of the political migrants living in camps and hotels in the state. They requested for allotment of land for their rehabilitation, provision of soft loans by banks for starting their own ventures, enhancement in the relief grant, registration of migrants with the Relief Commissioner, representation in the Apex Committee constituted by the state government for the migrants and expediting the process of appointments in government jobs under the Prime Minister’s package for migrants. They also highlighted the need for setting up of anganwadi centres for the camp and non-camp migrants and medical insurance cover for the migrant population. Members of the delegation also requested for a library-cum-memorial hall at the cremation site of the Sikhs, killed at Chattisinghpora in Anantnag district. The Governor assured the delegation that he would take up its demands with the Chief Minister. The delegation comprised chief patron Choudhary Qamerdeen, vice-chairperson Nisar Ahmad Nasar and Sardar Aya Singh, provincial president, Jammu province, Sardar Nanak Singh Bedi, provincial president, Kashmir province, Pervez Hilal and secretary Bal Krishan.
	Guv briefed on issues related to youth Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 Youth social worker and volunteer of the Indian Red Cross Society, Jammu and Kashmir, Kiran Kumar Sharma called on Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhawan here today. Kiran was conferred the National Youth Award 2011-2012 by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and is also the recipient of the Young Achievers Award from The Hindustan Times group for his exemplary work in the field of social work. On seeing a road accident in December 2013, Kumar provided prompt first aid and shifted the accident victim to a hospital in Jammu. His timely intervention saved the man’s life. He informed the Governor about some youth-related issues and his views on strengthening the role of the Indian Red Cross Society in colleges and universities. The Governor congratulated him for receiving various awards and appreciated him for his zeal and enthusiasm for promoting the welfare of society. The Governor wished him success in all his future endeavours.
	Moderate Hurriyat calls for shutdown Srinagar, January 29 Criticising the Army for its decision of the closure of the Pathribal case, the moderate Hurriyat faction today reiterated its call for a complete shutdown against the verdict on Friday. Hurriyat said the shutdown call is meant to seek the attention of the international community on the "injustice" done in the Pathribal case and for revoking what it calls "black laws" like the Armed Forces Special Powers Act. This appeal was made by Hurriyat leaders during a seminar here today, which was organised by the moderate Hurriyat in the backdrop of the Army's decision to close the Pathribal case. — TNS
	Kashmir valley freezes in sub-zero temperatures No relief from cold as Met Dept predicts more snow from Feb 2 to 6 Bismah Malik Tribune news Service Srinagar, January 29 Though the 40-day harshest winter period in Kashmir, "Chillai Kalan", is about to end on Friday, there is no respite to the Valley residents from the intense cold wave conditions. "Chillai Kalan" began on December 21. The cold wave tightened its grip on Kashmir valley and Ladakh region as mercury plummeted in most places by several notches and Kargil recorded the season's lowest temperature for the second consecutive night. The Meteorological Department today forecasted more snowfall from February 2 to 6. With the western disturbance approaching the state, the day temperatures may fall by 5-6°C and night temperature may rise by 2-3°C. Meteorological Department Director Sonam Lotus told The Tribune that this year, Kashmir recorded the heaviest snowfall since 2006, in terms of snow accumulation. "In 2006, the precipitation was slightly higher than this year, but there is definitely more snow on ground this time. We expect light snowfall in the higher reaches of the Valley on February 1, but in Srinagar and a few other places of Ladakh and Jammu regions, moderate to heavy snowfall is likely to occur from February 2," Lotus said. According to the weather advisory issued by the Met Department today, "Moderate to heavy snowfall will occur at most places in Kashmir and Jammu divisions and at many places in Ladakh region. A few places along south Kashmir and Pir Panjal Range may receive heavy snowfall." The mercury level dipped to - 20 degrees Celsius in Kargil district of Ladakh region, - 10 degrees Celsius in Pahalgam, 0.9 degrees Celsius in Srinagar and -11 degrees Celsius in the tourist resort of Gulmarg in Kashmir region. "Chillai Kalan" will be followed by a 20-day period of "Chillai Khurud" and 10-day-long "Chillai Bacha". This 70-day harsh winter period brings with it maximum chill. "Chillai Kalan" (which means 40-day-long in Persian) is usually marked by dry cold wave, followed by heavy snowfall. When the harsh winter period ends, the air, earth and the water tend to be warmer, signalling the arrival of the spring by early March. For the elderly, "Chillai Kalan" is reminiscent of good old days when the famous Dal Lake turns into a solid surface of ice on which kids would play cricket and do ice skating. "It usually attracts film-makers here as the beauty is resplendent at this time. You have frozen Dal Lake surrounded by Chinar trees and Zabarwan mountains covered with white blanket of snow. This for many is a lifetime opportunity," said Zareef Ahmad Zareef, Valley's eminent historian said. Harshest winter “Chillai Kalan” will be followed by a 20-day “Chillai Khurud” and 10-day “Chillai Bacha”. This 70-day harsh winter period brings with it maximum chill. “Chillai Kalan”, which means 40-day-long in Persian, is usually marked by dry cold wave, followed by heavy snowfall. When the harsh winter period ends, the air, earth and the water tend to be warmer, signalling the arrival of spring by March.
	Govt psychiatric hospital holds awareness workshop Our Correspondent Srinagar, January 29 To push people, who had mental health problems in the past, towards economic prosperity, a one-day awareness workshop on economic opportunities was held at Government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital here on Wednesday. The officials of the hospital said the sole purpose of holding such workshop was to boost the morale of those patients who had suffered from mental illness in the past like schizophrenia, drug abuse, acute stress disorder and post traumatic stress disorder. “The aim of this workshop was to sensitise people who had problems in the past. These people are fine now and they need to lead normal lives,” said an official of the hospital. After being convinced by the hospital authorities, Department of Khadi and Village Industries Board along with the Department of Industry and Commerce also collaborated for the workshop. At least 25 people, who had mental health issues in the past, participated in the workshop. The officials of both the departments raised awareness among the participants about different economic opportunity schemes available to them. “The participants were made aware about different schemes they can avail. Most of these people are skilled and educated, but they lack awareness,” said the official. Government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital, Srinagar, a 150-bed hospital, is the only hospital for mental health in Kashmir. It is the main referral institution for all patients suffering from any psychiatric disease or condition from all over the state. “This type of workshop will provide a motivation to these people who feel let down by the society. They had mental health problems, but now they are absolutely fine and should lead normal lives, but because of economic problems they again get chances of landing into depression. So we felt a need to conduct this workshop,” said a leading psychiatrist in the valley, Dr Arshad, who is a senior doctor at the hospital.
	Khanyar being spruced up for Urs Dastgeer Sahib Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 To mark the annual Urs of Dastgeer Sahib, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) would install high-mast and facade lights and set up mobile toilets around the shrine area at Khanyar. An SMC official said the corporation would also put in place colour-coded smart bins at Khanyar, besides making operational hopper vehicles and compost vehicle services during the Urs days so that the devotees did not face any inconvenience. SMC commissioner GN Qasba said the corporation would also set up mobile toilets and mobile assistant booth service around the shrine and the ward officer concerned along with the sanitation officer would look after its maintenance. The Khanyar shrine is devoted to 11th century Sufi saint Shaikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani known as Dastgeer Sahib by devotees, whose actual shrine is located at Baghdad in Iraq. Even though the saint never visited Kashmir, he is highly revered by locals and the main Urs functions are observed at the Khanyar shrine in the old city and another one at Sarai Bala area close to Lal Chowk. The preparations * The Srinagar Municipal Corporation will install high-mast lighting and facade lights * Mobile toilets will be set up around the shrine area in Khanyar * The corporation will also put in place colour-coded smart bins at Khanyar
	Fire in Baramulla market, six shops gutted Srinagar, January 29 At least six shops were gutted in a fire that broke out in the fish market of Baramulla district of Kashmir last night. The fire broke out in the fish market in Baramulla, 55 km from here, and quickly engulfed several shops. “Six shops have been gutted in the incident,” he said. There is no report of anyone getting injured in the incident so far, he added. Meanwhile, a fire broke out in a cotton factory in Pulwama district, gutting it completely. — PTI
	Pedestrian hit by car, injured Tribune News Service Srinagar, January 29 A pedestrian was injured when a Tavera vehicle hit him near sub-district hospital, Bijbehara, in south Kashmir on Wednesday. The injured, Mohammad Ismail Khari, a resident of Kullar, was shifted to a hospital. A case has been registered in this regard. In another mishap, a bus driven by Gulzar Ahmad Beigh, a resident of Ganasthan Sumbal, and a Tata Sumo driven by Fayaz Ahmad Bhat collided near Palpora. Tata Sumo was damaged in the incident. The police said no one was injured in the mishap. A case was registered in a local police station.
	Pak targets Poonch Rajouri, January 29 The Pakistan army today targeted a few posts in the Ghambir area of the Balakot sector in Poonch district at 3 am today. The Defence PRO said the firing with small arms from across the border continued for about 5 minutes which was also retaliated with the same calibre by the Indian troops. “No loss to life or property was reported from the area,” said the Defence PRO. In January, during the first infiltration bid from the Krishna Ghati area, Pakistan had provided coverage fire on January 13, while between January 2 and 4, terrorists with the help of the Pakistan army had tried to enter India from the Mandher area. — OC
	CRPF organises T20 tournament in Doda Our Correspondent Doda, January 29 The Inter-District Central Reserve Police Force Public-Friendly T20 Cricket tournament, organised by 76 Battalion of the CRPF in collaboration with the Young Star Cricket Club, Doda, began at Sport Stadium here yesterday. Doda SP Mohmmad Sharif Chouhan was the chief guest. Commandant 76 Battalion CRPF Vikram Singh Thakur was also present at the opening ceremony. Vikram said these competitions would help in promoting the spirit of brotherhood among the youth. Chouhan lauded the efforts of the CRPF for organising the tournament which will boost morale of the youth. In the opening match, Firdous Eleven Doda (FED) beat Toundua Tigers Doda (TTD) by 90 runs. After winning the toss, FED decided to bat first. They piled up 169-4 runs in their stipulated 15 overs. In reply, TTD managed to score only 79-4.
	State football team leave for Delhi Tribune News Service Jammu, January 29 A 30-member state team selected by the J&K Football Association (JKFA) has left for Delhi to participate in the 68th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy 2013-14 slated to be held in Delhi and Siliguri from January 30. The team is being accompanied by coach Abdul Majeed Kakroo, team manager Majid Yousuf Dar and physiotherapist Dr Karran Nayyar. Dr Nirmalok Singh, member of the State Sports Council and vice-president of the JKFA, SM Gill, former MLC and member of the JKFA, and Narinder Gupta, member of the State Sports Council interacted with the members of the team. The team comprises Vikramjeet Singh, Faisal Ahsan, Waseen Feroz, Gautam Mehra, Azhar Ali, Yaseen Rashid, Aman Thapa, Romesh Verma Pat, Ashiq Mushtaq, Rohit Kumar, Shahnawaz Bashir, Asif Majeed, Khalid Qayoom, Waseem Maqdoomi, Zameer-ul-Hassan, Sandeep Sharma, Prem Kumar, Shahid Mushtaq, Toufeeq Ahmed and Amanjot Singh. The J&K team will play its first group match on January 31 against Uttar Pradesh, followed by matches against former champion Punjab and Himachal Pradesh on February 2 and February 4, respectively. The J&K team has been placed in group “B”, whereas Delhi, Uttarakhand, Haryana and Chandigarh will clash in group “A”. Two teams from each zone will qualify for the final round, which is scheduled to be held at Siliguri from February 26.