Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra taken out

A large range of individuals participated in an exceedingly grand ‘Shri Jagannathji Rath Yatra’ taken out within the recent town here nowadays. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), organized this initial ever "Shri Jaganath Rath Yatra" within the town of temples nowadays.Hundreds of devotees, dancing on the tune of song "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare" and rhythm of drum beats, attracted everyone’s sight. an outsized range of girls and kids conjointly accompanied the yatra.The "Rath Yatra" commenced from town Palace, Kachi Chawni, and it responded to Parade Ground, Shalamar, Kanak Mandi, Rajinder Bazaar, Shaheedi Chowk, Raghunath Mandir, Indra Chowk, Gumat, Vinayak Bazaar, Dogra Chowk, Jewel, Canal Head, Guest House, Gole Pulli, Bohri and culminated at KK Resort, Udheywala Bohri.Hundreds of individuals from the roof prime of their homes and on the road were seen waiting to possess the glimpse of tableaux of Lord Jaganathji, his brother Baldev and sister Subhadra, moving on a fantastically adorned chariot.Chairman, J&K Legislative Council, Amrit Malhotra, was the Chief Guest whereas Madan Lal Sharma and Choudhary Lal Singh, each Members of Parliament, were the Guests of Honour.The Rath Yatra pageant of chariots originates in Puri, Orrisa and it's the oldest known pageant and has been celebrated for over thousands of years.The founder Acharya of ISKCON, C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, introduced the ‘Rath Yatra’ pageant through out the planet. Among others gift were Vikram Malhotra, president Rath Yatra Committee, Jai Keshav Dass, organizing president, SC Bali, president Reception Committee, HG Sarvbhaum Bhattacharya Dass, General Manager, ISKCON Jammu, Surinder Peshin and Sanjeev, pageant coordinators and Rohit Bali, general secretary.

SASB clarifies report on duration of yatra

Higher Education Summit 2012

Force to organise Higher Education Summit-2012

The Forum of Recognised Colleges (FORCE) in collaboration with Indian Colleges Forum, New Delhi, is going to organise a national level summit titled Higher Education Summit-2012 at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu from March 16 to 17.

Harbans Singh, former Minister and President, FORCE, while briefing the media said the theme of the summit will be "Higher Education for Innovation and Change" wherein over 100 intellectuals from across the country are likely to participate.

He further said the objective of this summit was to highlight the problems and issues faced by higher education and to devise ways to make education socially relevant and employment oriented.

The summit would comprise of various technical sessions like Policy; Practice and Resource Constraint Hindering Innovation and Change; Making Higher Education responsive to innovations and change: Academic initiatives and use of ICT; Role of Private Sector in promoting Higher Education; Best Practices of Innovation and Change in Higher Education; Leadership role in Enabling Higher Education and Change etc.

Harbans Singh added that the report of the summit will be compiled and sent to the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, UGC, Department of Higher Education for further necessary action in this regard.

The valedictory function will be held on March 17 at the same venue.

State of Health Care in JandK State

Wrong information provided under RTI

Timely snowfall useful for agriculture

103rd International Womens Day in Jammu Kashmir

103rd International Women’s Day was celebrated across the State with enthusiasm and zeal.

State Commission for Women (SCW) in collaboration with Government College for Women (GCW), Parade, celebrated 103rd International Women’s Day with zeal and enthusiasm. The topic of the day was "Women and Society".

On the occasion, Minister for Higher Education, Abdul Gani Malik, was the chief guest while as Shamima Firdous, Chairpersons, SCW, was the guest of honour.

Principal of the College, Dr Kiran Bakshi, presented the welcome address and threw light on celebrating the day across the State as also the country.

Secretary of the commission, Hafiza Muzaffar, Vijay Laxmi Dutta and several other dignitaries spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of the day.

Several students of the college took part in the debate titled "Women and Society" and expressed their views. Certificate of participation were presented to them by the dignitaries.

Addressing the function, Abdul Gani Malik, said that with the high standards in education and life style, women have already occupied their place in the judiciary, politics, administration and social activities.

"There is no doubt that girls are outshining boys and in almost all the examinations girls secure higher marks and excel in the disciplines of Arts, Commerce and Science", he added.

Dr Aruna Dubey, presented vote of thanks.

Minister for Relief, Revenue and Rehabilitation Raman Bhalla said that today’s women are playing vital role in every field of activity greatly contributing towards the progress of the nation.

He said this while addressing a function at Gandhi Nagar, here today.

He added that the Government has envisioned and implemented a number of programmes aimed at women empowerment, which includes providing 50 per cent reservation to women in Panchayat elections, helping them to become self reliant through different schemes.

Bhalla further stated that 58 per cent women got elected in recently concluded Panchayat elections, which was an encouraging sign towards their empowerment.

Minister for Social Welfare Sakina Itoo emphasized upon women in general and self help groups in particular to come forward and work unitedly for their rights and socio-economic empowerment.

She was speaking on the occasion of International Women's Day in the auditorium of the Govt. College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, organized by the State Women's Development Corporation

She also stressed the need for education of the girl child, the only tool for women empowerment.

Khem Lata Wakhloo Chairperson State Social Welfare Board and MLAs Bimla Luthra, Indu Pawar and Nazir Ahmed Gurezi were also present on the occasion.

The gathering was also addressed by Seema Khajuria Senior Advocate and Dr. Madhu Khullar Director Health Services, deliberated upon medico-legal pertaining to the women cause.

On this Occasion Minister also distributed Cheques to the tune of ` 24.75 lakh among 36 women beneficiaries and also inaugurated the two days sale-cum-exhibition of products prepared by SHGs assisted by Women's Development Corporation.

Literary discourse and Short Story recital marked the International Women’s Day celebrations at premises of J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages here today.

As part of the day long all women events, comprehensive short story recital session was held at KL Saigal Hall here in which several writers recited their women centric short story collections.

The writers who recited their women oriented stories were Prof Nirmal Vikral, Santosh Sangra, Gurdeep Kour and Surinder Neer.

The recital session was presided over by Former Secretary Academy, Prof Rita Jitendra, who later also recited a women oriented story titled "Kirya Karam".

Earlier in her welcome address, Academy’s Additional Secretary, Savita Bakshi said that the aim of holding women oriented activities was to recognize the contribution of women in varied fields of human life.

International Women’s Day was celebrated at Government Hospital, Sarwal.

On the occasion, Dr Madhu Khullar, Director Health Services was the chief guest.

A blood donation was organised in which nurses and the female students donated their blood.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Khullar spoke about the women empowerment and importance of female education. She also gave examples of top women in India including President of India, Lok Sabha Speaker, etc, which shows that women can take top positions and are fully committed if given a chance.

Dr Arun Sharma, Superintendent of the Hospital, Pathologist Dr AK Bhardwaj, UK Padha, Chief, Blood Bank, Gandhi Nagar hospital and other staff of the laboratory were also present on the occasion.

A convention of women activists chaired by Sunita Bhagat was held here today to observe International Women’s Day.

Addressing the convention, Sunita Bhagat said that domestic violence is widely prevalent in the society. Due to persistent efforts, women of different communities are challenging the discrimination practices, which subordinate them and are speaking up for their rights at different levels.

Mohd Yousuf Tarigami, MLA, State secretary, CPI (M), while addressing the convention said that it is a day to remind the world that equal rights and opportunities for women are imperative for human progress.

Gender equality and political empowerment of women can be instrumental in harnessing the latest potentialities of the women folk and making them agents of social change, he added.

Among others who spoke were CPI (M) leaders, Sham Prasad Kesar, Om Parkash, Javid Ahmed Zargar besides women activists.

MC Khalsa College of Education organised one day workshop to observe International Women’s Day.

On the occasion, Harbans Singh, Former Minister and Managing Trustee was the chief guest.

The topic for the workshop was "Challenges to Women Emancipation in 21st Century", in which coordinators of five groups presented their papers.

Dr Madhu Singh, Principal of the college, delivered a talk on the important issues related to women enlistment and her emancipation to generate the issues related to the problems faced by women.

KCS College of Education (Women) celebrated International Women’s Day in the college premises with great enthusiasm and fervour.

The programme was declared open by Principal of the college Prof OP Sharma, who while speaking said that women comprise of fifty per cent of world population, therefore, they must be empowered in every walk of life.

Apart from speeches, cultural programme was also presented wherein students presented different cultural item depicting the theme of women empowerment.

Among others present were Deepti Gupta, convener, Co-curricular Activities Committee, Sneh Khanna, Rajan Suri, Lecturers and Sunita Sharma were also present.

Ramisht College of Education, Basholi, in collaboration with Swarn Youth Club celebrated International Women’s Day in the college premises.

The student speakers in their speeches said that female child should be given proper education as well as nutrition. There should be no difference between a female and male child.

Chairman of the college while speaking, said that as compared to men, women are more loyal to their family, society and nation.

"We should pay respect to women and help in the enforcement of their rights, he said.

A legal awareness camp was organised under the chairmanship of Swati Gupta, Chairman, Tehsil Legal Services Committee, Munsiff, JMIC, Bishnah in observance of "International Women’s Day".

In her address, Swati Gupta apprised the general public about the rights of the women as provided under various provisions of Law.

Among others present were Shalender Kumar, SP Hqrs, SS Sambyal, SDPO, RS Pura, SHO Bishnah, Yogesh Bomba, Prosecuting Officer, Members of Bar, DK Singh, KS Saini, SS Manhas, BD Sharma, Sham Lal, Sonika Moten, Sister Moosa, Principal, Convent School, Arnai, Rajni Bala and general public.

In connection with International Women's Day celebrations a function was organized by Women's Wing of National Conference at Barnai under the leadership of its president Vijay Laxmi Dutta. While stressing on the importance of the day, she said the coalition Government led by Omar Abdullah has taken various steps for the empowerment of the women in the State and the women should take full advantage of the same.

Mrs Dutta asked the women to come forward and work for the enlistment of their sisters living below poverty line in different parts of Jammu region. On the occasion she distributed two sewing machines among the two ladies. She also apprised them of various schemes launched by Social Welfare Department for enlistment of women.

Government totally ignoring displaced Pandits

Kashmiri Pandit Conference (KPC) has accused the government of ignoring the displaced Pandits totally and said that the community, which is living in exile for over last 20 years has a sordid tale of total neglect.

Highlighting the problems of the community, which has been the main victim of Pak sponsored terrorism, president KPC, Kundan Kashmiri at a meeting here today demanded constitution of a Commission of Enquiry to probe the mass exodus of KPs, selective killing of innocent members of the community, loot and arson of their property. He further demanded that KPs Shrine and Temple Bill be passed in the present session of State Legislature. Besides KPs participation should be made mandatory in all nature of dialogues related to Kashmir issue, grant of age relaxation to KP youths and construction of shops at Jagti township and other camps also needs urgent attention.

Stressing on the consolidated rehabilitation of displaced Pandits in Kashmir Valley with complete writ of Indian constitution Kundan Kashmiri said it is the only solution of KPs problems. He said that KPs return to their previous locations in Valley is impossible in view of changed mind set of the people there as majority community rejected co-existence in 1989-90 by forcing the community to leave their homes and hearths.

Highlighting the problems of KP youth, Kundan Kashmiri said that almost four years have now elapsed when Prime Minister declared employment package for 6000 posts for displaced community but till now hardly around 1500 posts were filled and rest were deliberately delayed on the one or the other pretext. If government goes by this process it will take next 10 to 15 years to fill up these posts, till then KP youth for whom the package was announced will become over aged, he added.

2 day conference in Kashmir University
APSCC castigates Congress
Terror mail from Kishtwar

Amarnath Yatra 2012 from June 25

As recommended by the Sub-Committee of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board headed by Sri Sri Ravi Shanker, this year Amarnath yatra 2012 will be for 37 days beginning from June 25 and will conclude on August 2 coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

The recommendations of the Sub-Committee, which was constituted in July 2011 to advise the Board regarding the duration and schedule of the yatra in 2012 and beyond, were accepted in the meeting of the Shrine Board held under the chairmanship of Governor, N N Vohra at New Delhi.

The Board directed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to timely commence the registration of pilgrims and ensure the effective management of the Yatra. He was also asked to arrange a Special Pooja on the day of Jyestha Purnima, which falls on June 4. This Pooja, if possible, will take place at the Holy Cave or at any other suitable location in the Yatra area.

The Board further directed that all possible efforts should be made, in coordination with all concerned agencies, to make a timely assessment to determine whether it would be feasible to consider advancing the Yatra by a few days, prior to June 25. 

In this regard, a specific review of snow melting and pace of snow clearing work would be undertaken in the first week of June. It was further resolved that if pre-ponement before June 25 is found possible, even by few days, the CEO will organize registration of Yatris through a speedy mode like on-line or even spot-registration.

The Board noted that a growingly large number of pilgrims have been losing their lives during the pilgrimage, particularly due to cardiac related ailments. As many as 45, 68 and 107 people had lost their lives in 2009, 2010 and 2011 Yatras respectively.

In this context, the Board observed that time has come to consider more effective approach and decided that pilgrims will have to furnish a health certificate issued by a Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) at the time of registration. The enforcement of such a pre-condition had also been advised by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

The Board directed the CEO to issue a very clear advisory to inform every intending Yatri to undergo a medical check-up to assess his/her fitness for undertaking the arduous yatra. 

Referring to the helicopter services from Pahalgam to Panjtarni, which were started in 2009 on experimental basis for about two weeks before conclusion of yatra, the Board said heli services had been gainfully utilised by over 5000 yatris every year during the 2010 and 2011 pilgrimage.

The CEO informed that fresh contractual arrangements for the helicopter services from Baltal and Pahalgam to Panjtarni are being worked out and the schedules and rates would be notified shortly.

Expressing satisfaction over the measures taken for environmental protection, including the effective operation of two Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), based on the eco-friendly biological treatment, at the Baltal and Nunwan base camps, the Board desired that these measures should be sustained and progressively enlarged and upgraded for the future yatras. 

It was informed in the meeting that a comprehensive plan had been drawn up in this regard, in consultation with Sunita Narain, Director, Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi, who is also the Member of the Board. The Board also approved the proposal for significant augmentation of the toilet facilities at various camp locations in the yatra area.

All the Board members Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Dr Kapila Vatsyayan, Justice (Retd.) G D Sharma, Dr Sunita Narayan, Vijay Dhar, Pt Bhajan Sopori and Dr (Prof) Ved Kumari Ghai besides R K Goyal, Chief Executive Officer and Preet Pal Singh, Additional Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board attended the meeting.

Ladakh Festival begins
Farooq slams Makens comments
News October 2011

12th Class Pvt Bi Annual 2011Result

Examination Result Higher Secondary Part Two ( Pvt )  Bi -Annual 2011

Jammu & Kashmir State Board of School Education, which was established in 1975, located at Jammu and Kashmir, today announced the results for the Result of Higher Secondary Part Two, Bi -Annual 2011 (Private) Jammu Province. The Jammu & Kashmir State Board of School Education, Higher Secondary Part-II Bi -Annual (Private) Exam results are now available on its official website.The candidates who underwent the Higher Secondary Part-II Bi -Annual (Private) examinations, can access their results now by following the link given below.

Examination Result Higher Secondary Part Two ( Pvt )  Bi -Annual 2011

Soz said Cong decision fair

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President and Rajya Sabha member Prof Saif-ud-Din Soz has today said that the decision taken by the Congress high command regarding Education Minister, Peerzada Mohammed Sayeed is a fair one.

This was claimed by Soz during his exclusive talk with media persons. He said, “There is a system in every institution and same is with the Congress Party. Every decision is taken after adopting some mechanism and this time the decision taken by the institution is also fair.”

Holding Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah responsible for running the coalition government he said, “CM is the head of institution in the state and in this case everything was done according to his knowledge.”

“If anything was not fine in the institution it is his duty to fix it and rectify it, as he is the only responsible person to take care of all his ministers,” Soz maintained.

On the question of PHE Minister, Taj Mohi-ud-Din regarding his presence in New Delhi during last few days he refused to comment.

Soz was in Jammu today for attending a rally organized by the MLA, Indu Pawar, and State President Mahila wing of the Congress Party.

ASKPC accuses Govt of not solving migrants problems

All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) in its general body meeting here today discussed various problems being faced by the displaced Pandits.

The meeting was chaired by general secretary ASKPC, H L Chatta.

He lambasted both State and Central Governments for their failure in solving the burning problems of the community. He said the Government has failed to pay heed to the problems of the displaced Pandits.

He demanded immediate enhancement of monthly relief in favour of relief holders to ` 12,000 per month, payment of ` 25 lakh as one time stipend in favour of over-aged youth, release of monthly pay in favour of migrant employees posted in the Valley under PM’s package, allotment of quarters to non camp migrants living in rented accommodations, stoppage of encroachment of Hindu religious places and immovable property, Passage of Temples and Shrines Bill and constitution of a Committee headed by a Supreme Court Judge to enquire about exodus and killing of innocent people in Kashmir since 1989-90.

Those who also spoke in the meeting include Bharat Bushan Bhat, Subash Chatta, Ravi Raina, Sanjay Kakroo, Ashok Dhar and S L Mujoo.

Martand Tirath Trust holds GBM

General Body Meeting (GBM) of Martand Tirath Improvement and Charitable Trust was held here today under the chairmanship of R N Koul its chairman.

The meeting in an appeal urged the authorities to ensure full protection of the Martand Shrine at Mattan in South Kashmir district of Anantnag which is providing free langer and other facilities to yatris of Swami Amarnath Ji.

The GBM also approved some important decisions for future planning in the interest of the Trust.

Veer Ji Pandita gave brief of the two years working of the Trust and highlighted various steps taken by it for providing facilities to pilgrims.

President of the Trust, M K Yogi appealed the Government to fulfill the commitments made with the Trust for the development of the shrine and renovation of Bhargishekha temple. He demanded that Government should take necessary steps to mitigate the sufferings of the community and enhance the monthly relief before the Shivratri.

On the occasion Vaid Prakash Kichloo presented balance sheet before the GBM.

Others present in the meeting included Baskar Nath Bawani, Badri Nath Khar, Baderi Nath Tickloo, Soom Nath Tickoo and Maharaj Krishan Tickoo.

JandK celebrates Eid I Milad with fervour

Eid-I-Milad, the birthday of the revered Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was today observed with religious fervour across places Kashmir valley.

Despite the cold weather, devotees from across the Valley thronged Aasar-e-Sharif Hazratbal, housing holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and joined the congregational prayers throughout the day.  The holy relic was displayed after all five prayers amidst recitation of Daroods and Naats, and the practice would continue tomorrow also.

A large gathering of men and women offered nightlong prayers at Hazratbal while many more joined them during the early morning prayers, Fajar.

The traffic department had made arrangements for smooth arrival of devotees at Hazratbal. Apart from the private and public transport, the State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) had made special arrangements for devotees. Around 90 of its buses were deployed for ferrying devotees to shrine.

Elsewhere in the summer capital, congregational prayers were held throughout the day.The important places included Jenab Sahib Soura, Asar-i-Sharif Shahri Kalashpora, Lal Bazar, Khanqah-i-Maulla, Ziarat Hazrat Dastgeer Sahib (RA), Syed Yaqoob Sahab (RA) Sonwar, Khawaja Naqashband Sahab and Ziarat Makhdoom Sahib (RA).The clerics highlighted the importance of the day in Islam and urged the Muslims to follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

South Kashmir

Seeking blessings from Almighty on the day, a large gathering of people offered prayers at Masjids and shrines in Anantnag. The rush of devotees was seen mostly at Jamia Masjid Reshi Sahab, Khiram Sirhama, Kaba Marg, Dooru and Seer Hamdan.

Apart from Masjids and shrines, people had also decorated the marketplaces in the main town Ananatnag.

Prayers were held throughout the day at Ziayarat of Hazrat Syed Husain Simnani (RA), Asar-i-Sharif Pinjura in Shopian district, and Charar-e-Sharief, Budgam.

North Kashmir

Hundreds of people offered night and daylong prayers in different Masjids and shrines across north Kashmir. Biggest congregation was held at Dargah-i-Aaliya at Khawaja Sahib Mohalla here.

Prayers were held at Jamia Masjid, Ganderbal, Bandipore, Sopur, Kupwara, Handwara and other places. People took out processions reciting Naats and Manqabats after prayers.

In the morning, Milad procession was staged from shrine Janbaz Wali at Khanpora to Asar-e-Sahrief Baramulla. Thousands of people participated in the procession.

Airtel lauches online library of hello tunes

Bharti Airtel, leading global telecommunications company with operations in 19 countries across Asia and Africa, today announced the launch of www.airtel.in/hellotunes - an online library of India's largest collection of hello tunes.

By visiting this website, Airtel mobile customers in India can now enjoy the convenience of discovering, browsing, sampling, buying and even gifting.

Airtel also announced that it has rolled out a brand new and intuitive user interface for www.airtel.in/start, which allows customers to browse, search and buy from a vast collection of its Value Added Services (VAS) including missed call alerts, Airtel Radio, Airtel Talkies, Mobile TV, Friends Locator etc. Airtel mobile customers currently have online access to over key 85 VAS offered by Airtel on the refreshed website and will be able to subscribe to many more of such services in days to come.

The launch of www.airtel.in/hello tunes and www.airtel.in/start is one of the many steps taken by Airtel towards delivering an enhanced, simplified, convenient and increasingly social experience for its online customers. 

Class 12th Result Declared Kashmir

Boys have again outshined girls in the annual class 12th examination, 2011 for Kashmir province, the results of which were declared by JKBOSE today.The pass percentage for boys is 60 percent while that of girls is 58 percent. However, girls have bagged first positions in all three streams of commerce, arts and home science. Boys have topped in science stream.The total pass percentage is 59 percent for the valley. Out of 49956 students, 29460 students have passed the examinations.

In the science stream, Atif Jan of Tyndale Biscoe higher secondary school has bagged first position with 98 percent. Second position is shared by nine students, which include six girls, with 97.8 percent.  Third position in the science stream is shared by 10 students who have unanimously scored 97.6 percent. Twelve students have attained fourth position with 97.4 percent while fifth position is also bagged by 12 students with 97.2 percent. In total, 98 students have bagged first ten positions in science stream.

In Commerce, Saba Tariq from Muslim Educational Institute, Pampore, has bagged first position with 97.4 percent. Second position is shared by Admeena Javed of Muslim Educational Institute (Pampore), Sheikh Saqib Shakeel from government S.P   higher secondary school and Sobia Maqbool of Muslim Educational Institute (Pampore) with 96.8 percent.

Neelofar Bashir from government girls higher secondary school Amir Kadal has bagged   third position in commerce stream with 96 percent. Four students have bagged fourth position with 95.8 percent while one student attained fifth position, and three students have secured sixth position with 95.4 percent. Twenty one students have secured first ten positions in commerce.

Arjumand Qadir Kala from government girls higher secondary school, Baramulla bagged first position in arts stream with 97.8 percent. Quaseen Jahan from government girls higher secondary school, Amira Kadal bagged secondary position with 96.4 percent, Ifra Jan from government girls higher secondary school, Kothi Bagh bagged third position with 95.8 percent and Bilkees Amin from government girls higher secondary school, Budgam  bagged fourth 95.6 percent. Fourteen students are included in the merit list of arts in top ten positions.

In home science, Samieyah Banday and Zara Zahoor Wani from government girls higher secondary school, Kothi Bagh bagged first position with 87 percent. Shabum Rashid from government girls higher secondary school, Kothi Bagh bagged second position with 83.8 percent. Third position has been shared by three girl students by scoring 79.4 percent.

Besides, 6632 students have secured distinction in the examinations, 11890 students have secured first division, 8775 students passed with second division while 2159 students have passed with third division.

IIPM confers Sreedharan with Swami Vivekananda Prize

To mark the 150th birth year of Swami Vivekananda, E Sreedharan, the former CMD of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation was conferred upon with `10 lakh IIPM-Swami Vivekananda Memorial Prize in recognition to his sustained sincerity towards his work, his honesty and integrity.

The event took place at the IIPM International Campus in presence of institute’s founder director and chairman of IIPM Awards Committee, Dr Malay Chaudhuri, faculty members and students.

Handing over the award to Sreedharan, Dr Chaudhuri remarked, "Swami Vivekananda had envisioned a modern India that would be more glorious, more rejuvenated than she ever was. To bring about the change that Swami Ji spoke of,we need leaders, who would exemplify their dedication towards the nation in terms of what and how they do. Mr Sreedharan epitomizes such an individual, who is not only committed to his own work but also to his nation, who respects the value and worth of time by managing complicated time bound projects with complete honesty and integrity".

Speaking on the occasion, Shreedharan said, "I am extremely happy to receive the IIPM Swami Vivekananda Memorial Prize and I thank IIPM where I got the opportunity to associate with such a legendary man who believed in serving the society as well as individual growth. I am sure I have been selected considering the contributions I have made especially in the recent times. I think more than the prize it was a pleasure interacting with young students from IIPM".

Sreedharan’s success as CMD at DMRC has earned his the sobriquet of the Metro Man. He has also been awarded with the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian awards by the Government of India.

One way traffic restored fully on highway

The Srinagar-Jammu national highway remained open for one-way traffic from Jammu to Srinagar. The authorities allowed the passenger vehicles to ply on the road almost after a week due to the slippery road conditions.

Officials said that due to slippery road conditions at many places only one-way traffic including the passenger traffic was allowed to move from Jammu to Srinagar while no vehicle was allowed to ply in the opposite direction.

Deputy Inspector General of Traffic, Vijay Kumar said following improvement in the conditions of the road they allowed the full fledged one way traffic from Jammu to Srinagar today. “At least 1900 Srinagar bound vehicles crossed over to this side of the tunnel. Among the 1900 vehicles at least 890 vehicles were passenger vehicles,” DIG said.

He said they have cleared almost all the supply carrying vehicles which were stranded on the other side of the tunnel at many places.

On the movement of the traffic on the road tomorrow DIG said, “We have decided to allow both the heavy and the passenger traffic from Srinagar to Jammu tomorrow but the intending travelers are asked to cross the Qazigund by or before 10 AM.”

To avoid any mishap or traffic jams on the road they will first let the passenger vehicles cross the Qazigund only after which the heavy traffic will be allowed to move.

Reports from Banihal, however, said that amid restrictions for fresh vehilces, one-way traffic from Jammu to Srinagar was allowed to move on 300 kilometer long National Highway 1A, today while tomorrow there will be down traffic from Srinagar to Jammu in case of fair weather condition.

Official sources said that in the morning hours some Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses were allowed proceed from Jammu to Srinagar but later at around 11 AM, the no fresh traffic was allowed to move.

The stranded traffic was allowed to move one-way from Jammu to Srinagar. As per official data, 2063 vehicles crossed Jawahar Tunnel till 7 PM. It included 695 trucks, 971 LMVs, 169 Oil Tankers, 16 LPG trucks , 41 gas tankers, 8 SRTC buses, 13 private buses, 60 army vehilces, 55 CRPF and 45 BSF.

Jammu Srinagar highway open for one way traffic

The 300-km-long Srinagar-Jammu National Highway was thrown open for one-way traffic from winter to summer capital today. However, the 434-km-long Srinagar-Leh National Highway remained closed while hundreds of villages, including those near the Line of Control (LoC) also remained cut off from their respective district and tehsil headquarters.

A traffic police official said here today that all the vehicles, particularly trucks, loaded with essentials, stranded between Banihal, Batote, Udhampur and Jammu, were allowed to move towards the Valley this morning.

He said only State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses, carrying passengers were also allowed from Jammu to Srinagar.

No light passenger or private vehicle was allowed as a precautionary measure.

Similarly no vehicle from Srinagar to Jammu was allowed today.

Official sources said most of the stranded vehicles, particularly trucks loaded with fruit and empty oil tankers at Qazigund and other places in south Kashmir were cleared yesterday.

Similarly, SRTC buses were allowed to ply on the highway from here to Jammu yesterday for stranded passengers.

However, hundreds of passengers, including non-state subjects, remained stranded here because of non availability of sufficient SRTC buses.

The Srinagar-Jammu national highway remained open for the one way traffic from Srinagar to Jammu today. However, only heavy vehicles were allowed to ply on the road.

Officials said that the traffic was allowed to move on the road only from Srinagar to Jammu and no vehicle was allowed to move in the opposite direction. “Due to slippery conditions of the road we allowed only one way traffic to ply on the highway. At least 2000 vehicles including 80 SRTC buses were allowed to move towards Jammu. 95 percent of the stranded trucks on this side of the tunnel were cleared today,” said Inspector General of Traffic, Hemant Kumar Lohia.

He said that tomorrow the road will remain open for only the stranded Srinagar bound stranded vehicles and the SRTC buses. “Still there are hundreds of supply trucks at halt on the other side of the road and we will try to clear them all tomorrow. Besides the SRTC buses will be allowed to move from Jammu to Srinagar,” IG said. About the movement of the light passenger vehicles on the road, the IG said, “The road is still slippery at many places and it will not be advisable to allow light vehicles to ply from either side. People can undertake the journey to Srinagar or Jammu in SRTC buses.” He also said that an SRTC bus towards Jammu will also be operated from Anantnag for the convenience of the people of south Kashmir.

Snow leopard in Banihal

Heavy snowfall in the upper reaches of Banihal led to man animal conflict in which four persons, including three brothers, were injured. A snow leopard attacked them in Ramban district today.

The snow leopard trekked down from the hilly area into village Wanpora in Banihal and mauled four people near their houses this morning.

The villagers rushed to the spot, beat up the wild animal before capturing it and handed it over to the wildlife department.The injured identified as Ghulam Mohammad, 65, Mohammad Yousaf, 50, Mohammad Aslam, 40, sons of Abdul Aziz of Wanpora Karawa and Riyees Ahmed, 30, son of Ghulam Rasool of Zanihal were shifted to hospital.

After a few hours, the leopard died in a veterinary hospital here, wildlife department sources said.Police handout claimed that one leopard has attacked in the residential house of Ghulam Mohammad son of Abdul Aziz of Wanpora, Banihal. Getting information of the leopard attack, cops of Police Station Banihal reached on the spot and shifted the injured persons to Emergency Hospital Banihal.Later on, Wild Life Department captured the injured leopard and shifted the same to Veterinary Hospital Banihal for medical treatment, handout maintained. 

Another spell of snowfall likely in Kashmir

Kashmir Valley is expected to witness another spell of snowfall after Sunday afternoon owing to the western disturbances and the temperature may fall again.According to the Met department another system of western disturbances is building and it may start to effect from Sunday afternoon for nearly two days.“We have system building up, which is likely to cause light to moderate snowfall from January 22. Its effect will remain for January 23,” the director Meteorology, Sonum Lotus, told Jk news.

Kashmir has been witnessing harsh winter after a long time. The intermittent heavy snowfall has been affecting the normal life since January 7 while the temperature has also fallen unexpectedly to minus 7.8 degree Celsius after 16 years.

While the snow, snapping all road and air links, left the valley cut-off from the outside world, the people have been facing the worse due to shortage of essential supplies.According to Lotus, the day temperatures are likely to fall again in the coming days.“When the system starts taking effect, the day temperature may fall and the nights may also get colder,” he said.

Meanwhile, much to the relief of the people, the day temperature today was around 5.2 degree Celsius and the minimum temperature of the night was minus 3.5 degree Celsius.

“We are seeing pleasant sunshine after a long time. Even yesterday started with a moderate snowfall in the summer capital. Hope it stays like this for sometime now,” hoped middle Nasir Ahmad of Lal Chowk.With the halt in precipitation, people have begun to move around. The traffic movement on the roads has also improved.

The major relief has, however, come to the vendors who were not able to set stalls during snow.“I did no business for almost a week because it was impossible to move out in that heavy snow,” Shakir, a teenage vendor selling used warm clothes shared, “Now as the snow has stopped I have also started to move out. The snow gave me a tough time.”

The air links to the valley have also been restored completely.According to officials at the Srinagar international airport, flights have been operating on time.“With improvement in weather, the flight operations have normalised. Thousands of passengers fly from here everyday,” the officials said. 

Govt seeks IAF aircrafts to rescue stranded people

The State Government has requested Indian Air Force (IAF) for aircrafts to rescue stranded people between Srinagar and Jammu, which remained cut off from the rest of the country due to heavy snowfall.

Heavy snowfall has blocked Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the only road link with outside world.

The vital highway has been closed for passenger traffic since the last one week after it was severely affected due to landslides and snowfall.

“The government is making special arrangements for IAF aircraft for airlifting stranded passengers between Srinagar and Jammu, subject to availability of aircraft,” an official said. 

Coldest month since 1995

This has been the coldest winter since 1995 as far as the month of January is concerned but there is going to be a little bit respite from the continuous rains and snowfall till the 23rd of this month as predicted by the Meteorological department.

In comparison with last year from January 13 onwards, the mercury is witnessing a slight downward trend this year both in maximum and minimum temperatures. On January 14, 2010, the minimum temperature was 9.5 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature this year on January 14 dipped to 5.9 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the maximum temperature during the same period from January 13 onwards in comparison with last year is also on the lower side by a few degrees.

The Meteorological department has predicted that for the next four- five days, the day temperature may rise marginally but there will be a further dip in the minimum temperature.

For the next 4-5 days, it will be sunny in the Ladakh region but Jammu and Kashmir regions will remain cloudy.

All flights from Srinagar airport cancelled

With the overnight snowfall in Kashmir valley, the flight operations from the Srinagar International Airport remained suspended today.Despite the snow clearance by the Border Roads Organization from the runway and tarmac of the airport, no flight could land or take off today.

The spokesman of Srinagar International Airport, Muhammad Shafi told JK News that the flights were suspended due to bad weather and poor visibility at the airport.

Large number of passengers had reached airport despite the snowfall and slippery roads but had to return back as the airport authorities announced cancellations of flights.

Around 16 flights operate from the airport daily these days.

It may be mentioned here that with the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar national highway Kashmir valley remained cut off from the rest of the country.