THE BURNING PARADISE

GREEN GOLD IN DANGER: Forest officials in deep slumber

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:22:09 PST

Hundreds of Deodar and Pine saplings/trees gutted in devastating fire in forest block Duggi compartment no 18 of Forest division Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir. / Pics by Mansoor Qadir

Where is JK Tourism Ministry?

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:43:33 PDT

CHIRALLA: The Govt of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the Tourism Ministry might have done wonders in promoting the tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir but still there are various spots in the Jammu region which have very high tourism potential even more than that of Gulmarg and Pahelgam but the the unfortunate thing is that the concerned ministry never tried to explore such spots thus remained neglected and out of sight for the outside world even within the state, such soots are least known.
This reporter has been trying to awaken the Govt and help it in identifying such places.

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“No danger to Himalayan Glaciers”

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:52:04 PDT

Brainstorming meeting on Climate Change at BGSBU
RAJOURI, FEB 21:The brainstorming meeting on “Climate Change” and its multiple effects held at the Centre for Biodiversity Studies of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri today has come out with the starting conclusion that the predictions made about the disappearance of Himalayan glaciers by 2035 are hollow without any scientific basis. This has come as great relief at a time when it was feared that the dooms day is not too far.

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Beauty of Gulmarg and the snow together bring cheers for foreign skiers

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:25:42 PDT

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Gujjars loose unique Yarkandi-Bakerwali Horse: Study

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 15:27:57 PDT

JAMMU, JAN 31: The nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals have lost the rare traditional , indigenous and unique specie of “Yarkandi-Bakerwali” horse during past decades and three other rare native species of horses distinctive with them since centuries are considered most threatened in the world and likely to evaporate in next few decades said a study conducted by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation-a national organization working on Gujjars.

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Forest Deptt violates labour laws, children being exploited

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:00 PDT

They are paid just Rs 50/ cubic meter instead of 366 for protection wall and 766 for protection wall with crate.

JAMMU/DODA, JAN 30: The time when children need to carry school bags are being exploited by the Forest Department, which under Chenab Basin Project are engaged as labourers in construction of protection walls at sinking portions in order to protect the land from erosions.

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A foreign tourist skiing at world famous Gulmarg resort

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 15:27:02 PDT

Kashmiri stag injured by hunter

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:03:36 PST

REASI: stag was critically injured when some unidentified person targeted her and fired upon with a fun. Later the injured stag also known as Kashmiri Hungal was shifted to Jammu Veterinary Hospital for treatment. Reports said that people saw a stag critically injured in the adjoining forest area in Reasi and informed the matter to the police and Forest officials. DFO and Dy SP along with team of officials rushed to spot and shifted the stage to Jammu Veterinary Hospital for specialized treatment. A gunshot was found on the body of stag which was presumed might have been shot at by by some hunter. However the police has registered a case in this regard and started investigation and hunt of the shooter. Relevant to mention here that the ‘Hangul’ (Kashmiri stag), is the only surviving species of the red deer family in Kashmir, which appears to on the verge of extinction.

PATRIOTIC FERVOUR AND THE SPIRIT OF NATIONALISM IN JAMMU

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:29:27 PST

Patriotic fervour and the spirit of nationalism prevailed at Maulana Azad Memorial Stadium Jammu as parade, skills displays and cultural programmes marked India’s 61^st Republic Day on Tuesday.

Full dress rehearsal of 61st R-Day at Jammu

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 11:29:04 PST

JAMMU: Full-dress rehearsal of 61^st Republic Day-2010 was held at M A Stadium here today. Senior civil, police and army officers were present on the occasion. The contingents which took part in the march past included Army, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, J&K Police, Armed, J&K Forest Protection Force and National Cadet Corps. Various educational institutions of Jammu district also participated in the march past which included Government GHSS Rehari, M C Khalsa HSS Chand Nagar, Lord Shiva Day Boarding School, Ghou-Manhasan, Government GHSS Mubarak Mandi, Guru Harkrishan Public School Nanak Nagar, Government GHSS Nowabad (Talab-Tillo), J&K Police Public School Miran Sahib, SNS Vidya Mandir (DBN) Talab Tillo, Scouts & Guides Contingents, Government SRML Higher Secondary School, Government HSS Sarwal, Government HSS Jammu Cantt Satwari, Government HS Rajpura Mangotrain, Government Central Basic HSS Jammu and Composite Contingent of Students of different districts of Jammu division. The schools which participated in the band troop girls, included May Fair, Higher Secondary School Chand Nagar, Jammu and Dewan Devi HSS Rajpura Mangotrian whereas in Band troop boys, various schools which include Government SRML HSS Jammu, Guru Harkrishan Public School Nanak Nagar, Jammu and J&K Police Public School Miran Sahib R S Pura took part in full dress rehearsal. Besides 1800 students drawn from various schools presented Rhythmic Gymnastics and about 2000 school children participated in Bhartiyam. A very impressive cultural programme was also presented by the school children. Thali dance presented by the artist from Ramban was also an added attraction which was applauded by one and all present on the occasion. On the occasion, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Dr Pawan Kotwal also took stock of arrangements at the sports stadium and issued necessary instructions to ensure smooth conduct of Republic Day function. The function was, among others, attended by Director General of Police, Mr Kuldeep Khuda, IGP Jammu, Mr Ashok Gupta, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Mr M K Dwivedi, DIG Jammu, Mr Farooq Ahmed Khan, SSP Jammu, Mr Basant Rath, Joint Director Information, Mr Shyam Bijyal and Deputy Director Information, Mr A K Khajuria.

CHILD LABOUR-AN HONUR OR A STIGMA…?

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:13:55 PST

SOFT HANDS BREAKING STONES WITH HAMMER:) These innocent children who should have been pursuing studies in schools are working on Job Cards under NREGA scheme of Central government in the remote areas of Doda district .

CONSTRUCTION OF PROTECTION WALL : Children in their innocence have been engaged by the local contractors for work being undertaken by the Chenab Basin Forest Division Saraj in the remote areas of Majmee-Desa, Doda.

Celebrating enforcement of the Constitution of India which has specific clauses/articles regarding the child labour.

There are specific clauses in the draft of Indian constitution dated 26th January 1950, about the child labour policy in India. These are conveyed through different articles in the Fundamental rights and the Directive Principles of the State Policy. They lay down four specific policy rules regarding child labor.

1) ( Article 14) No child below the age of 14 years shall be employed to work in any factory or mine or engaged in any other hazardous employment.

2) Article 39-E) The state shall direct its policy towards securing that the health and strength of workers, men and women and the tender age of children are not abused and that they are not forced by economic necessity to enter vocations unsuited to there are and strength.

3) ( Article 39-f ) Children shall be given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity and that childhood and youth shall be protected against moral and material abandonment.

4) (Article 45 ) The state shall endeavor to provide within a period of ten years from the commencement of the constitution for free and compulsory education for all children until they complete the age of fourteen years.

It was also decided that both the Union government and the State government could legislate on matters concerning child labor. Various legislative initiatives were also taken in this regard at both the State and Union level. The main legislative measures at the national level are The Child Labor Prohibition and Regulation Act -1986 and The Factories Act -1948. The first act was categorical in prohibiting the employment of children below fourteen years of age, and identified 57 processes and 13 occupations which were considered dangerous to the health and lives of children. The details of these occupations and processes are listed in the schedule to the said Act. The factories act again prohibits the employment of children less than fourteen years of age. However an adolescent aged between 15 and 18 can be recruited for factory employment only after securing a fitness certificate from a medical doctor who is authorized. The Act proceeds to prescribe only four and and hour’s work period per day for children between 14 and 18 years. Children are also not allowed to work in night shifts. Moreover, in the year 1996 the Supreme Court of India came out with a judgment in court that directed the State and Union government to make a list of all children embroiled in hazardous occupations and processes. They were then told to pull them out of work and asked to provide them with proper education of quality. The judiciary also laid down that Child Labor and Welfare Fund is set up. The contribution for this was to be received from employers who contravened the Child Labor Act. India is also a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ILO Abolition of Forced Convention – No 105 and ILO Forced labor Convention – No. 29. A National Labor Policy was also adopted in the year 1987 in accordance with India’s development strategies and aims. The National Policy was designed to reinforce the directive principles of state policy in the Indian constitution.

ESS NIZAM KA ALLAHA HAFIZ..!

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 10:50:15 PST

NO LESSONS LEARNT: Irresponsible drivers, un-professional traffic cops, lazy administration and Passengers shameful passengers altogether promoting road terrorism in J&K. In this picture, not only inside but overloading
has swelled to roof of a mini-bus on Doda-Bimna road on Wednesday.

ACTION DELAYED IS ACTION DENIED: J&K Govt more responsible for Forest degradation as compared to people.

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:21:47 PST

GREEN GOLD IN DANGER: The Forest Department of Jammu and Kashmir has failed to protect the green trees from felling so the forest fires, cutting green trees and encroachments on forest land are going high in the upper reaches of J&K state, particularly in the erstwhile Doda district. In this picture several young green trees of Divdaar have been grounded on January 19 and 20in Bimna area of Compartment Number-74 of Forest Range Saraj of Forest Division Desa Doda.

LIFE IS DEARER

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:22:43 PST

To restrict jumping of drivers from running vehicles during accidents, authorities have decided to lock drivers’ window so they can drive carefully in fear of getting killed.

Rs 9.3 Cr Eco-Tourism Project for Dehra-ki-Gali on anvil

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:16:55 PST

The Minister for Forests, Mian Altaf has said that owing to its magnificent forests, splendid view and proximity to Holly Shrine of Shahadra Sharief, as well as Mughal Road, a project proposal on Eco-Tourism Development of Dehra-Ki-Gali (DKG) and adjoining area has been formulated and submitted to Centre for approval. During his on-the- spot inspection to Eco Forest sprawled over 400 km around Dehra-ki-Gali yesterday, the Minister said that the Dehra-ki-Gali (DKG) is a beautiful hill station bordering Rajouri & Poonch Districts which has vast tourism potential. He said the entire area would be developed and brought on the tourism map adding that the development would be in consonance with the natural surroundings. The Minister said that the Government has formulated an ambitious proposal on Eco-Tourism Development of Dehra-Ki-Gali (DKG) and submitted to the Centre. The project has been proposed to be implemented in five years with an estimated cost of Rs.9.3 crore. The project includes construction of eco-friendly Huts. Trekking routes, Nature Trails, Nature Interpretation Centre, Cafeterias, Children Park and aforestation, the Minister said. He said, the project area includes Dehra-Ki- Gali(DKG), Topi, Seerhi, Rattan Pir. Suksar and Noori Chhamb. The project area once developed would attract lot of tourists and this would provide employment avenues to unemployed youth of the area. Subsequently this area shall be extended to beautiful water bodies located in the upper parts of Pir Panchal Range near Pir-Ki-Gali. This way the whole area would get linked to valley and tourists coming to Valley will also be able to enjoy beauty of nature in Rajouri and Poonch Districts of Jammu province. The Minister said that Rs 40 lakh have been sanctioned in first phase for construction of three wooden forest huts and two bridal paths within forests for its surveillance. Mr. Altaf sanctioned a timber depot for Maniyal Poonch to provide timber to the people of the area for construction of houses. He also directed the authorities to prepare a project plan for construction of road between Diyala Barota and Kalakot under Compensatory Aforestation Management and Planning Authority (COMPA). He assured the people that the government would pool all available resources to provide road connectivity to the people in remote areas to improve the socio-economic conditions of the people. The Minister was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner, Poonch, Mr. Kuldeep Lal Khajuria, Director Social Forestry, Mr. Shamim Ahmed and other senior officers of the Forest Department.

Afforestation drive in Rajouri launched

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:17:17 PST

Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmed on Sunday offered a participatory role for people in the schemes being implemented for the conservation of the State’s rich natural resources. Addressing a series of meetings on the first day of his two day tour to the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, the Minister said that the Government was keen to involve people in both developmental and conservation schemes being implemented to save and conserve the natural, cultural and historical legacies of the State. He said a sustainable development of all the regions was the ultimate aim of the Government. Speaking at a public meeting at village Dodasan Bala, Rajouri, the Minister reiterated the resolve of the Government to provide all basic amenities to the people of rural areas. He said provision of medicare, education, potable water road facilities was the top priority of Mr. Omar Abdullah led Government. The Minister said that massive developmental programme has been launched across the State for creating adequate social infrastructure with the aim of promoting economic activities. He said connectivity of all the villages with the nearest urban centres taken up on fast track was the major step in this direction. Assuring that Government was abreast with the problems of the people, especially living along Line of Control, the Minister said that they have been suffering for last over six decades on account of continues disturbance between India and Pakistan. Asserting that People living on either side are now strongly aspiring for permanent peace , He said friendly relationship between India and Pakistan was in the interest of people of both the countries as much blood has been spilled during wars and twenty years of militancy. The Minister also launched a forestation drive at Limberi village of Rajouri and announced that 2 Lakh saplings of various species, having cash value of Rs. 30 lacs would be provided to rural areas of the district on nominal prices. Mian Altaf said that saplings of valuable trees like Bamboo and Amala would be provided to people under Social Forestry Scheme, so that they could also get handsome dividends, besides contributing in adding to the forest cover of the area. Director Social Forestry and other senior officers of Forest Department accompanied the Minister during his tour.

Climate change hits natural paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 09:02:58 PST

By Zafar Iqbal

MUZAFFARABAD (PoK):The tangible impacts of climate change are now witnessed even in those areas of South Asian region which are considered as habitat of ecosystem due to the abundance of natural resources. Like other areas of world, the weather pattern in Kashmir has changed so much so that people are experiencing in chilly and dry winter without rains and snowfall. People paid special prayers for rain after a spell of dry and harsh weather conditions prevailing in the region since many months. People in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday offered Namaz e Istaska in small and big towns and remote areas. Prime Minster of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) Farooq Haider appealed people to offer particular prayers for the end of harshly dry weather. Hundreds of residents, including the Prime Minister (PM) and his cabinet members of government of Pakistani occupied Kashmir (PoK) , offered Namaz e Istakska in an open ground in the capital city, Muzaffarabad. In Islam Namaz e Istaska (Pray for rain) is a special kind of prayer which is performed in the time of drought, in order to seek relief from God, so that God may send rain. Similar rituals were paid in other cities where parched citizens pray for rain and snowfall. In various towns and cities in Pakistan and its occupied Kashmir arid weather has affected badly local population because of water scarcity in the region as most of the water sources have dried up and people are struggling to access for drinking water. Women have to walk for miles to bring water as all springs, streams, wells and other natural water sources have dried up where as water level in rivers, mini rivers and lakes are also shrinking. In Pakistan occupied Kashmir most of the population rely for natural water sources, including rivers, springs and wells. According to World Bank more than 60 percent of the population still has no direct access to water supply. A 1998 census shows that only 34.58 percent of the rural population has access to piped water supply (house connection) while more than 65 percent fetch water from communal sources. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Pakistan occupied Kashmir Government under a project worth Rs. 493 million are jointly working to restore rural water supply system and improve the sanitation in the region. The majority of water supply and sanitation systems in PoK (both rural and urban) were badly damaged by October 8, 2005 earthquakes. According to the Governments of PoK, a total of 1641 water supply schemes and sanitation system, were damaged and need to be rehabilitated or reconstructed. The dry weather has also affected areas which are famous for torrentional rains and snowfall in winter, howevever, this year wave of dry weather is not finished even after beginning of one month of winter. The intensity of the dryness has even been witnessed on high mountainous areas which used to be covered with many feet high snow in the beginning of autumn in the past. Most of the cities and towns and remote hilly areas are experiencing dry spell of weather. Rawalakot is tourist resort and have a beautiful lake in Banjosa, which during the recent years have attracted a large number of visitors form Pakistani cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi etc. Especially a large influx of visitors has been observed in the Rwalakot in summer and winter seasons after the military operation in Swat and other areas in Northern Pakistan which used to be tourist resorts in the past. The peaks of Lass Danna, Toli Peer, and Ganga Choti in Bagh District which are located at more than 7000-8000 feet over the altitude are still waiting for snowfall. (Pics by Aziz Rizvi).

DEPRIVED CRY; GOVT DENY...?

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 10:13:49 PST

Corruption, influence and bureaucratic nexus on suppressing spree in J&K

Omar either helpless or under pressure

JAMMU, JAN 10: Gone are the days, when deserving were getting their due on the basis of performance, intelligence and hard work. The time has taken a reverse turn and now the poor citizens of Jammu and Kashmir society are being suppressed with money, influence, corruption. Next to militancy; political affiliations/influence, bureaucratic nexus and the corruption are emerging as major threat for the Jammu and Kashmir society due to which those people who have no influence and money power are being suppressed and denied of their rights. It was January, 5 2008 when Omar Abdullah took over as the youngest Chief Minister (CM) of Jammu and Kashmir renewing the hope of ensuring corruption free administration of society but Omar too could not do anything against corruption and now it seems that young CM of J&K is either helpless or under pressure when it comes to fight the corruption and injustice. Exclusive investigations have managed to unearth several cases which will expose, how political affiliations/influence and bureaucratic nexus in J&K is emerging as a major threat becoming a cause of suppression against the deserving, and poor aspirants. Shouldering the social responsibility to bring the truth in front of every J&K citizen and questioning the credibility of politicians and the government, has started a news series under title, ‘DEPRIVED CRY; GOVT DENY’ from today. In each part under ‘DEPRIVED CRY; GOVT DENY’ a startling investigation will be published which not only will expose the working of J&K Govt but will also question the integrity of government which in high pitched raises the slogans of ensuring corruption free and transparent administration. We have decided to start with Social Welfare Department. Today we will disclose a case wherein a deserving candidate was denied of her rights just for Rs 20, 000 because some corrupt officers managed to engaged another candidate which, however happened, but, was not possible without the consent of district level authorities. Samreena Bagum wife of Rehmatullah Mir R/o Gundana in Doda is victim of corruption ‘even after charging Rs 10,000 from her because she could not afford more as was demanded by the officials of CDPO, Gundna.’ Someone has rightly said that money speaks and it was proved by the CDPO Gundna who allegedly charged Rs 20, 000 from another candidate namely Gulnaza Bagum W/o Muzaffar Hussain R/o Gundana Doda for getting her engaged. When it comes to corruption Rs 10, 000 really makes a big difference, even to a extent a deserving can be denied, deprived and depressed, this was proved by the Social Welfare Department in Doda district. It will be worth mentioning here that Gulnaza Bagum W/o Muzaffar Hussain R/o Gundana Doda was engaged as Anganwari Worker in Ward No-3 while she was resident of Ward No-4. According to voter list and Ward Certificate issued by Block Development Officer (BDO), Gulnaza Bagum was resident of Ward No-4, but was engaged in Ward No 3. The deserving candidate being the resident of Ward No-3, Samreena Bagum wife of Rehmatullah Mir R/o Gundana who filled the form under serial No 113, on 6/5/2008 for Ward No-3 with the CDPO Gundna in Doda, was denied. During investigations was found tempered. BDO Gundna has verified Samreena as resident of Ward No- 3 and Gulnaza as resident of Ward-No-4. CDPO, Gundna, Roshan Lal after verifying the records admitted that injustice has been done with the Samreena Bagum. “ I have verified that Samreena is resident of Ward No-3 while Gulnaza is resident of Ward No-4 and the former has been denied of her right”, Roshan admitted. When contacted Block Development Officer (BDO), Gundna Ghulam Ahmed said that the matter needs to be verified to get the exact picture. Relevant to mention here that as seen in the past, it has been found that inquiries are ordered which are mostly done by the district level officer, During investigations it has been found that such cases in maximum are done under the nose and in connivance of district level officers which is major reason behind increasing injustice with the deserving. So the need of the hour is to bring a change in the traditional approach and evolve an independent inquiry so the dying hope of poor people/aspirants could be restored. (Don’t forget to read the next exclusive investigative report).

IN SEARCH OF PEACE: As the main streets of Valley witness protests, clashes and shutdowns, pigeons prefer to take shelter in the premises of Hazratbal

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 09:25:46 PST

Pic by Mehraj Bhat

IN SEARCH OF PEACE: As the main streets of Valley witness protests, clashes and shutdowns, pigeons prefer to take shelter in the premises of Hazratbal

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 04:11:11 PDT

Pic by Mehraj Bhat

3-day snow festival concludes at Gulmarg

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 06:26:08 PST

The three days snow festival concluded at Gulmarg with the final matches of Cross country race, 10 km speed skating competition and women’s 5 km cross country race. In speed skating competition Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed got Ist position in 1500 meter race while Tashi thinless and Mr. Yashpaul Purthi secured 2^nd and 3^rd position respectively. Similarly in junior speed skating , Mr. Rashid Farooq Mr. Moyein Digoo and Mr. Wamiq shafiq bagged Ist, 2^nd and 3^rd positions. In Sub Junior scakting Mr. Mutaib Digoo and Firdous Ahmed got Ist and 2^ndpositions respectively in 500 meter speed skating. In the senior speed skating match, Mr. Vasu Dev Tandi, Mr. Yashpaul Purthi and Mr. Ajit Kumar secured Ist, 2^nd and 3^rd position respectively. In Mens 10 km Cross Country race, Mr. Angchuk Dorji, Mr. Nadium Iqbal and Bilal Ahmed, got 2^nd and 3^rd positions respectively. In women’s 5 km cross country race miss Phunchuk Yandon was the only female candidate to bag first position in the race. Later trophies, gold, bronze and silver medals were distributed by Chief Executive Officer Gulmarg Development Authority among the winners on the occasion. The momentous were also awarded to Information Department Jammu and Kashmir by GDA for extending sport and cooperation in holding such occasions. The festival which was witnessed by a large number of tourists culminated with a colorful cultural Programme presented by participants, sport persons, local cultural club and Jhankar group. The snow festival was inaugurated by Minister for Tourism Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora and MoS Tourism Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani the other day.

Time old Gujjar “Jirgas” under threat of extinction in J&K : Study

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 09:15:13 PST

The Tribal Judicial system ‘Jirga’ popular in Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir since centuries will becoming a history of past in next few decades if timely steps are not being taken by State legislature for its recognition and protection by making these " Tribal Courts" constitutionally valid through an enactment said a latest study conducted by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation a premier organization of Gujjars of Indian States. Dr. Javaid Rahi Secretary Tribal Foundation said that during study it was found that this oldest popular system of justice needs immediate legal recognitions otherwise this tradition will extinct in next few decades. “Jirgas are still popular in Tribal Areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan and enjoying legal sanctity but in Jammu and Kashmir this system is surviving since centuries without constitutional safeguards” said Dr. Rahi and added “we consider this traditional judicial system as a vibrant instrument of our cultural heritage and our organization will fight vigorously for constitutional recognitions of Jirgas in J&K . As per study , in Gujjars of J&K around 72 present still believe and practice traditional Jirga system which is being headed by “Muqadams” an elderly tribal which takes decisions on various issues by consensus. Some Gujjar women called “Mahries” also heading Jirgas in some remotest pockets of the State, the study said. The study further said that the Gujjar “Jirgas” are more effective and powerful in community in difficult areas and the Muqadams or Mahries after listening to all parties or sides, pronounce a decision according to the oral traditional law of the tribe or religious law.” In bigger disputes senior Gujjar leaders or religious personalities figures, the study said. As per study due to un-availability of legal tools J&K Gujjar Jirgas are not interfering in criminal case but they decides almost all other major ticklish disputes includes land and assets issues, family disputes, theft cases or other issues related to tribals only. As per study , all tribals are bound to respect Jirga and if any party or parties fails to comply or respect a jirga decision, they are liable to be ousted. Gujjars believes that this is irreligious to defy the Jirgas. The study revealed that the Jirgas are also powerful in maintaining law and order in upper reaches and difficult to reach areas of the State . The study says that Gujjars believe in Jirgas because they are free of cost, quick and are nearest to them. The study says in order to avoid interference of Police the a substantial chunk of Gujjars and Bakerwals pin faith on this time-tested tribal system to settle disputes and redress grievances As per study Gujjars Jirga can award capital punishment, social boycott or expulsion from the community only. The study says that in J&K till date the Jirga system is without legal protections, and needs to be protected with new provisions of the constitution and law of the land.

Gujjars san representation in 10 major JK Govt. Depts.: Survey

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 04:02:30 PST

JAMMU DEC 6: A latest survey conducted by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF) revealed that the representation of Gujjars, the third largest community in the State is almost negligible in 10 Major Government Institutions of Jammu and Kashmir. They are having no say in any decision making bodies of the State that’s why they are lagging behind in every sphere of life, the survey said. National Secretary of the Foundation, Mr Javed Rahi while releasing the survey said that they have chosen 10 major government institutions for conducting this survey. The survey was aim at to know the reasons of backwardness of Gujjars in the state who constitute more than 20% of the total population of the State whereas Scheduled Tribe since 1991 getting 10% reservation in government jobs. According to survey conducted in all 32 departments in civil secretariate, where plans are formulated and executed for whole of the state , there is no one from Gujjar community is working at the rank of Under Secretaries or above to the rank of Chief Secretary. The survey conducted in Civil Administration reveals that in Senior KAS poll, there are 319 senior officers working in civil administration and only three belongs to Gujjar tribe while as per the constitutional provisions in vogue, there should be 32 officers in such poll and as per the population, this number ought to have been 64. There are 41 Super Scale, 39 above Super Scale and 163 HODs /IAS (96) officers/ others in the civil administration of the state and only one Director (Social Welfare) belongs to Gujjar tribe.

In district Administration only one Dy Commissioner belongs to Gujjar Community. No Gujjar is serving as District SSP any where in the State.

In State Police Department, the situation is worst as 30 SSPs, discharging their duties in the State only one belongs to Gujjar tribe, he too is posted as Staff Officer. Among 2l DIGs and 19 IGs and ADGS/ DGs, there is no representation of Gujjars in this major law enforcing agency of the state, the Survey revealed.

Survey further said that important organ of the state which provide justice to people, i.e., State Judiciary, there are 67 District and Session Judges, while only two from Gujjar community while as per the reservation quota, this number should have been 7 and as per population ratio, it should have been 14. The survey says since 1928, no Gujjar has been appointed as Judge of the state High Court and even today among the l4 sanctioned vacancies of the Judges of High Court, no Gujjar has been appointed or elevated till date as such.

Survey further reveals that there are 303 teachers in Jammu University which include Lecturers, Readers and Professors. As per the schedule tribe reservation quota, the number of Gujjars should have been 30 and as per population ratio, it should be 60. But there are only two belongs to Gujjar Tribe in Jammu University. The situation is worst in Kashmir University, there are 364 Lecturers, Readers and Professors working in this highest educational institution of Kashmir and as per constitutional provisions, 36 ought to have been from Gujjar Tribe while there is not a single teacher appointed or working in University of Kashmir.

In Government Medical College Jammu, out of 160 total sanctioned strength Five Teachers are Gujjars and among 170 teachers in GMC Srinagar only one Teacher of Gujjar Community is serving there.

The survey also focused, the most prestigious financial institution, which is back bone of state’s economy, i.e., J&K Bank, there are 3352 officer ranking staff members from Probationary Officers/Managers to the Chairman of the Bank. As per the reservation provisions of ST, 331 staff members ought to have from Gujjar community and it is most ironic that there are only 3 (Three) employees working in J&K Bank which belong to Gujjar Tribe.

A most surprising revelation surfaced during the survey that the State Advisory Board for the Development of Gujjars and Bakerwals set up by the government for the welfare of the Gujjars have 15 staff members from Vice Chairman to orderly and there are only 2 orderly from Gujjar community are working in this board.

Mr Rahi appealed the state government to go through the facts of the the Survey and suggested that government should initiate steps and announce special packages to bring Gujjar tribe in the main stream. He said that this community has always been exploited as a vote bank and even the political parties with the votes of Gujjars assume power.

Arnas to be brought on tourism map: Jora

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:20:09 PST

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Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has said that the Government is contemplating to bring the “Arnas” valley of district Reasi on tourism map for exploring its varied potential. He said Rs 7.22 crore would be spent on the development of scenic and adventure spots, besides creation of infrastructure for visiting tourists once the State Government would receive accord sanction from the Union Government.

This was stated by Mr.Jora while addressing a largely attended public gathering today at village Gari, about 140 kms from here.

Minister of State for Power, Forest and CA&PD and Minister for Haj, Aquaf, Higher Education and Fisheries, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan also addressed the gathering.

Mr. Jora said that the Government is fully aware about the development needs of the people and is working vigorously to fulfill their aspirations. He said a multipronged strategy has been evolved for the fast development of the State. He said people have high hopes with the Government and assured that it will strive for assuaging their urges and aspirations.

Addressing on the occasion, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan said that extending electricity facilities to left-over hilly areas is the priority of the Government. He said a receiving station has been sanctioned for Arnas, which will help in streamlining the facilities in the area. He said all the dilapidated poles and old wire would also be replaced in a phased manner in the area.

The Minister said that every facility would be provided including availability of food-grains well in time through sale outlets and instructed CA&PD authorities to make it sure that every householder gets its ration quota every month.

Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan said that people of the State, especially those living in hilly and border areas, have suffered a lot during turmoil. He said the Government is working tirelessly to ensure all round development of the State. He said development of mountainous and remote areas like Arnas is the top priority of the Government, adding that a massive developmental programme has been initiated in these areas.

Mr. Aijaz, who is also MLA of Arnas constituency said it is a matter of satisfaction for the people of Gari and other surrounding villages that for the first time a vehicle plied on the newly constructed Gari-Jag Bogli road. The road had been taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 12 crore. He said execution of Arnas-Dhanoor and Gaundi-Panosa and salal-Sujandhar roads are also being taken up at a total cost of Rs 21 crore. He said 17 water shed development projects have been sanctioned for the constituency under Haryali programme to uplift the socio-economic condition of the people.

The Minister said extension of quality education, healthcare and potable drinking water are also priority of the Government. He said several new projects for the area are in pipeline. He assured the people that being their representatives in the Government, he will not leave any stone unturned for overall development of the area. He sought peoples cooperation in this regard.

On this occasion, the people of the area also celebrated birth anniversary of late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and paid floral tributes on the portrait of the late leader.

Turtuk in Ladakh opened for foreign tourists: Jora

noreply@blogger.com (Ajmer Alam) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:16:33 PST

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In a major move to boost tourism in Ladakh region, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has relaxed the Protected Area Permit Regime (PAPR) enabling foreign tourists to visit Turtuk village in Nubra valley, situated on the famous Silk Route.

Expressing happiness over the decision, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora and Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani said that opening of Turtuk area for foreign tourists would place Nubra valley prominently on the world tourism map. They added that the decision would go a long way in bringing the virgin locales of the region into limelight. The Ministers also appreciated the role of Union Home Minister, Mr. P. Chidambaram for taking personal interest in this matter.

Referring to the potential tourist spots in the region, Mr. Jora said that from now on tourists would be able to travel along the banks of the Pangong Lake, right up to the villages of Man and Merak. Earlier, he said they were allowed to go only up to village Spangmik. He said the route along the Pangong Lake from Merak to Chushul and then across Tsaga La, Tsaga to Loma Bend would also be considered for opening, once sufficient tourist infrastructure is developed there. A large number of foreign tourists are already visiting Nubra valley for Bactrain camel safaris and hot sulphur springs of Panamik, he added

The Minister said that the long pending demand of the locals of Kargil to open the Chiktan-Batalik area for foreign tourists has also been approved by the Home Ministry. The approved tour circuits in the district are, Kargil-Khangral-Shaker-Chiktan-Sanjak-Leh and Dah-Garkone-Darchik-Batalik-Silmo-Kargil town, he informed and added the area is also the home of famous Drokpas, supposed to be pure Aryan tribe. Earlier, the tourists were allowed to travel only up to Dah, he said.

Giving details of the other important relaxations, Mr. Jora said that earlier tourists were allowed to travel in the PAPR area in groups of four, but after the present relaxation tourists can also go in twos. He said permits for visiting these areas are issued by the concerned Deputy Commissioner.

Giving details of tourists traffic to Ladakh, the Minister said the number of tourists visiting the region has touched 75, 000 from the modest figure of 500 in 1974, when Ladakh was opened for tourism and the tourist season which used to be confined to July-August, now extends from May till end of October.