Srinagar, August 07: Hours after Chief Engineer Public Health Engineer (PHE) ac-cused Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CAPD) Chowdhary Muham-mad Ramzan of abusing him and subsequently resigned, the

CAPD Minister revealed an embezzlement of 5.84 crore in a PHE Scheme.The Chief Engineer PHE Mu-zaffar Ahmad Lankar told GNS that the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribu-tion Chowdhary Mohammad

Ramzan used aggressive lan-guage against my engineers and abused me during the re-view meeting today in pres-ence of PHE Minister Sham Lal Sharma.“The language which Chow-dary Ramzan used was

See Resigns On PG 11..

‘PDP to focus on regeneration of orchards,

increase in apple production’Srinagar, Aug 7 : Peoples Dem-ocratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, has expressed concern over the lack of irriga-tion waters to the fruit orchards, agriculture fields and highland karewas which has resulted into huge losses to the people involved with the farming activity in the state.According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing various roadside meetings in Wachi as-sembly constituency of Shopian district, she said there are no suf-ficient irrigation waters available to the orchards, agriculture fields, vegetable farms and the ruling NC-led government has misera-bly failed in its duty to devise spe-cific plans to rescue the sectors from imperiling crisis. Mehboo-ba said the farming community have suffered immense losses, because of the inclement weath-er conditions, lack of irrigation waters and the government indif-ference. She said the hailstorm

in many areas have left standing crops devastated but the govern-ment agencies have not been able to intervene either in disease con-trol or loss assessment.Mehbooba said the horticulture industry in the state is faced with immense challenges and the lack of concern from the ruling Na-

tional Conference government towards this economically vital sector has created a huge crisis like situationThe PDP Chief expressed concern over the decrease in fruit crops particularly apple over the last five years which has badly affect-ed the economic condition

See Mehbooba On PG 11..

CMYK

CMYK

CMYK

FRIDAY 08 August | 2014 | 11 Shawal, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 | VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 217 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)Pen For Justice Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&Khttp://www.zabarwantimes.com

WEATHER

TEMPERATUREMAXIMUM MINIMUMSUNSET ON(FRIDAY)SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY) 05:47 AM

07:29 PM 19.9 0C 33.90C

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.

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>>>>> PG 10 >>>>> PG 10 >>>>> PG 10

The environmental degradation in whole of the world is causing many problems not only for the world pop-ulace but for all living things includ-ing flora and fauna. Our state is also facing the same problem on many counts as the forests are being re-duced to barren land and the trees in the plains are being cut in such a way that day is not far when the state will become a cold desert. The majes-tic Chinar trees have been felled in hundreds and efforts of planting new Chinar trees have hardly yielded de-sired results.

Illegal felling of walnut trees continues

unabated

Tara Chand calls for expeditiouscompletion of SSA/RMSA projects

Rather asks people to shun differences,work unitedly for the cause of people

Ramzan, Wani reviews progress of R&B works in Handwara

Possibility of thunderstorm inthe afternoon. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 30°C & 23°C respectively.

CMYK

Srinagar, Aug 7: Doctors of Direc-torate of Health Services, Kashmir achieved yet other feat by performing a crucial microscopic disc surgery on a 45 year old male patient in north Kashmiriat Community Health Cen-tre (CHC) Sopore for the first time. Although a tertiary level surgery the operative team performed the sur-gery in a successful manner. Accord-ing to a statement issued to KNS, the patient who was complaining of se-vere back ache was diagnosed as L4-L5 PIVD and the operative procedure done was L4-L5 Microdisectomy. The team headed by Dr Mir Basharat Kant (MCH Neurosurgery) included Dr Samir Ibrahim, Consultant Anaes-thetist, Dr Ian Mumtaz, Consultant Orthopaedics, Amjad Ali, Mohammad Shafi, Showkat and Shams Din(The-atre Staff).The significance of sur-geries like these is that patients will be provided tertiary care set up in peripheral hospitals with ease andat their doorsteps thereby

See CHC On PG 11..

First ever microscopic disc surgery done at

CHC level

04 injured in road mishaps

Boy electrocuted at Handwara

Srinagar, Aug 7 : Four persons were injured in two separate road acci-dents in North Kashmir. A Maruti car bearing registration number JK045589 hit and injured three per-sons identified as Mohammad Fayaz Mir, Abdul Jabbar Mir, Qudrat Mir residents of Chatti Banatra, Bihar at Vadhpora in the jurisdiction of po-lice station Handwara. All the injured have been shifted to PHC Chogal for treatment. Handwara police has reg-istered a case in this regard.Meanwhile, a Maruti car bearing registration number JK05/8587 hit and injured a pedestrian, Ghulam Nabi Kuchay resident of Khanshab Budgam at Pancowk Baramulla.

See Mishaps On PG 11..

Srinagar, Aug 7 : Two teenage boys got electrocuted while fishing in Maar Nallah in Handwara last evening. One of them died while another has been hospitalized.Two boys 15 years old Mehraj-u-Din Thakery son of Mohammad Yaqoob and 10 years old Imtiyaz Ahmed Thakery son of Mohammad Hanief resident of Nowgam Mawar re-ceived electric shock while fishing in nearby Maar Nallah at Nowgam, Handwara. Mehraj-u- Din Thak-ery died on spot while as Imtiyaz Ahmed Thakery was shifted to SKIMS Soura for treatment. Handwara Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)

Mehbooba expresses concern over lack of irrigation

water to farmersSrinagar, August 07: A cabin-desk which con-tained critical documents about private schools was gutted in mysterious fire that broke out in the Directorate of Education Kashmir here, sources said on Thursday.The mysterious fire who erupted in the wee hours has raised eyebrows as officials believe a mafia working for the private schools may have set the cabin on fire to hide bun-gling.Reliable sources said at around 6 am, a fire erupt-ed in the private section. “The fire erupted from a table where important re-cord of Kashmir private schools including inspec-tion report got gutted,” they said.Sources in Education Department believe that the fire was not acciden-tal but there seems some conspiracy. “How come it is that only table would be gutted?” they asked.

Soon after the fire, the education officials, po-lice and fire service per-sonal rushed to the spot and doused the fire from spreading, sources said.The Director Education Kashmir, Tariq Ali Mir, told GNS that the timely action by them ‘saved the computers and other re-cord in the section’.On being asked that im-portant record of private schools has gutted, he said: “Though it is not the case, but we also keep photo copies of the record and other papers.”The Director further said he can’t say wheth-er someone is behind the incident or it is just an ac-cident. “Presently I can’t say anything. But, I have constituted a committee and asked the committee to submit its report with-in a week.He also said that police, which is a best investiga-tive agency,

See School On PG 11..

Mysterious fire in School Education

Deptt raises eyebrowsSrinagar, Aug 7: An Army soldier was killed and three others includ-ing a lieutenant, sus-tained injures when a ve-hicle they were travelling in fell into a deep gorge in north Kashmir’s Bandip-ora district on Thursday.A senior army official told GNS that an army gypsy bearing registra-tion number 05B089584 while on way to Gurez from Bandipora skidded off the road and fell into a

deep gorge near Dragbal in the district.The official said that four army men of 22 Raj Rifles under 109 and 28 Infan-try Brigade sustained injuries in the mishap, the official said, adding that all the injured were immediately shifted to district hospital Bandip-ora where one of the sol-diers identified as Rifle-man Ram Niwas (belt no. 16018018 W)

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Soldier killed, lieutenant among 3 injured in Bandipora mishap

Chief Engineer PHE resignsAccuses CAPD Minister of using foul languageCAPD Minister rebuts allegationsEmployees protest minister’s misbehaviour

Srinagar, August 7: Slamming the National Conference leader & minister for CAPD, Choudhry Ramzan, for abusing an upright and honest state government of-ficer, M A Lankar, Peoples Dem-ocratic Party (PDP), president, Mehbooba Mufti has said this is a new low in the working of Omar Abdullah-led government in the state.In a statement, she said by resort-ing to such type of hooliganism and highhandedness time and again, the National

See PDP On PG 11..

PDP condemns assault on MA Lanker

Srinagar, Aug 7: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today inaugurated three Power Receiving Sta-tions at Dandipora, Mar-hama in Anantnag and Khallen in Pulwama Dis-tricts. These are a part of the gigantic programme launched in the State to upgrade power distribu-tion and supply system.According to a statement issued to KNS, Omar Ab-dullah while interacting with the people at these places told them about the blue print of his com-prehensive policy of revo-lutionizing State’s power generation and distribu-tion scenario. He said all

efforts have been made to make Jammu and Kashmir self-sufficient in power production and strengthen the HT/LT system.“We have focused power sector to achieve twin ob-jectives of ensuring 24x7 supply to consumers in the State and export the surplus generation to get remunerative income for economic welfare”, he added and said that fi-nancial independence of the State largely depends on power sector develop-ment.The Chief Minister said that as against 750 MW power

See Omar On PG 11..

Self-reliance in power generation on anvil: OmarInaugurates Receiving Stations at Dandipora, Marhama, Khellan

Srinagar, Aug 7 : As the Srinagar Develop-ment Authority (SDA) runs headless for the last a month, authorities seem least interested in appointing its vice chair-man.Reports have informed KNS that the SDA runs at present without any one heading the author-ities-causing much cha-os within the employees maintaining that there is no one to listen to their woes.“It is the most unfortu-nate aspect that when we have any problem within the office that could only be resolved by the vice chairman but since he was transferred by the government, here is no one that was placed on his chair due to which it is total entropy here,” said one of the SDA em-ployees.It was also informed that the employees went on strike for the last 20 days due to certain issues faced by them in the past and that the workers continued to protest amid strike with

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SDA remains headless, Govt. promises action

‘Respond within a week or face

disciplinary action’Srinagar, Aug 7 : Nation-al Conference Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani has issued a show-cause notice on behalf of

the party to Abdul Rashid Shaheen for issuing base-less and unacceptable statements against the party leadership in the media.According to a party spokesman, the NC Pro-vincial President said the rank-and-file of

See NC On PG 11..

NC issues show-cause notice to Shaheen

Srinagar, Aug 7: In yet an-other major corporate so-cial responsibility (CSR) programme, J&K Bank an-nounced launch of a major initiative “KOSHISH” for meeting the health, educa-tional and nutritional needs of underprivileged chil-dren of the state. In the first phase, 40 villages in three districts – Srinagar, Budgam & Ganderbal would be cov-ered under the programme covering 5100 household and 9224 children.According to a statement is-sued to KNS, announcement to this effect was made by the J&K Bank Chairman, Mush-taq Ahmad, at a glittering function here today where the State Finance Minis-ter Abdul Rahim Rather, launched a joint Corporate Social Responsibility pro-gramme of J&K Bank & PNB Metlife in the state. Christo-pher Townsend, President Asia, MetLife Inc,. Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife, Parvez, Ahmad,

Executive President, J&K Bank, Abdul Rauf Bhat, Sr. President, J&K Bank and Ms. Puja Marwaha, CEO, Child Rights & You (CRY). Notably, CRY would be im-plementing agency of the projects.

The CSR programme will focus on education and de-velopment of underprivi-leged children in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The two identified projects are with CRY - Child Rights

and You, through project partners Jammu & Kashmir Association of Social Worker (JKASW) and KOSHISH.JKASW works across 1,823 households in the districts of Baramullah, Bandipo-ra and Srinagar impacting 4,800 children. KOSHISH will work with 9200 children in 5100 households across 25 villages in the district of Budgam. In addition, 15 more villages are being eval-uated for this programme.The State Finance Minis-ter, Abdul Rahim Rather, speaking on the occasion, was all praise for J&K Bank for its crucial to the finan-cial security and develop-ment of individuals, families and societies at large in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. “During the last two de-cades, I think there must be very few success stories that could rival the meteoric rise of J&K Bank in the country. Throughout the state, 8 out of 10 success stories

See JK On PG 11..

J&K Bank announces “KOSHISH” initiative for underprivileged children

We will bring smiles on faces of crying underprivileged children: ChairmanSrinagar, Aug 7 : A two day workshop is being held at Amar Singh Col-lege, Srinagar on “Voca-tionalization in Higher Education & Baseline Survey”. The workshop is being organized by Mission Directorate RUSA to device modal-ities for introduction of vocational education and conducting baseline sur-vey in Higher Education.According to a statement issued to KNS, the work-shop was inaugurated by Muhammad Akbar Lone, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, J&K State.Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad (IAS), Secretary to Gov-ernment, Higher Edu-cation Department was guest of Honour. Mir Ja-hangir, Director, RUSA delivered welcome ad-dress. Keynote address to the workshop was deliv-ered by Prof. Zahoor Ah-mad Chatt, Nodal Princi-pal, Kashmir Division.The workshop was at-tended by Academicians

/ Experts from Universi-ties / Colleges and other educational institutions from Jammu and Kash-mir. Viviek Nagpal from Ministry of Human Re-sources Development, GOI also participated in the workshop. The workshop assumes greater significance in view of the fact that a new Directorate (Mis-sion Directorate RUSA) has been established in higher education sec-tor for vocational edu-cation, upgradation of infrastructure in col-leges / universities and creation of new cluster universities. With the initiative of organizing two days workshop, the Directorate formally took off. The expert team is scheduled to frame curriculum and required number of work hours of studies required to complete the syllabi Vote of thanks was presented by Mr. Fayaz Ahamd Bala, Con-sultant RUSA. (KNS)

Mission Directorate (RUSA) finally takes off

Srinagar, Aug 7 : In response to a Starred Question in the Rajya Sabha, the other day, the Minister of Minority Affairs, Najma Hep-tullah informed Prof. Saifuddin Soz that out of 76 recommenda-tions of the Sacher Report, Gov-ernment of India had accepted 72 recommendations. She also said that these recommendations were at different stages of implementa-tion.According to a statement issued to KNS, the Minister further said that Govt. had taken 43 decisions in respect of the 72 recommen-dations. Heptullah has further clarified that the responsibility of implementation of the afore-said decisions had been given to the concerned Ministries/Depart-ments Prof. Soz has, however, expressed his apprehensions that while the previous Govt. had set up a cell within PMO to monitor the implementations of the Sach-er Report and implementation of 15-point programme meant for amelioration of the minorities, the present Govt. had, reportedly, dispensed with that

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GoI accepts 72 out of 76 Sachar recommendations: Heptullah

11 Srinagar, Friday 08 August 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Resigns

SDA

Mehbooba

School

Soldier

NC

GOI

JK

PDP

CHC

Mishaps

Omar

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

Srinagar, Aug 7: Vodafone India, one of India’s leading telecom-munications service providers, Thursday donated more than Rs 5 lakh to Sakhawat Centre to help facilitate education of underprivi-leged children in J&K.Embracing the true spirit of the holy month of Ramdaan through a ‘giving’ gesture, Vodafone, for the second consecutive year, raised funds for the education of needy children. As part of its tie-up with the Sakhawat Centre run by Iqbal Memorial Trust, an NGO in Sri-nagar, Vodafone donated 1paisa out of every call or recharge and Rs 5 out of every new activation in the Kashmir province during the entire month of Ramdaan, starting July 1, 2014.Through this initiative, this year, Vodafone collected a total of Rs 5.42 lakh which was given to the Sakhawat Centre. Last year, Voda-fone had given Rs 4.58 lakh to the Sakhawat Centre under this ini-tiative for promoting education of needy children.The cheque was handed over to Dr. Yusuf-ul-Omer, Chairman Sakha-wat Centre (under Iqbal Memo-rial Trust) and Mir Mohammad Ashraf, Secretary Sakhawat Cen-tre (under Iqbal Memorial Trust) today.While sharing his thoughts on this noble initiative, Asit Shekhar, Business Head, Punjab, HP and J&K, Vodafone India, said, “Edu-cation for all is a pre-requisite for growth and development of the so-

ciety. However, there are children who wish to study but find it diffi-cult to pursue it because of finan-cial difficulties. As a value-based organization, it has been Voda-fone’s endeavor to contribute to the empowerment of the society it operates in. Through this ‘giving’ initiative we are working towards removing the hindrances faced by those needy children who want to study, thereby contributing to the inclusive growth of the society. Also, the tie-up with the Sakhawat Centre has helped Vodafone in-volve all the people of Kashmir to contribute for this humble cause.”Dr. Yusuf-ul-Omer, Chairman, Sakhawat Centre (under Iqbal Me-morial Trust) while explaining the

functioning of the NGO said, “We are happy and proud to continue this association with Vodafone for a second year running as it helps bring about a positive change in the life of needy children. The Iqbal Memorial Trust has been working to rehabilitate the lives of thousands of destitutes and or-phans in J&K. With an objective of making its social welfare activ-ities more broad-based, the Trust had set up the Sakhawat Centre in J&K in June 2005. The humble endeavor by Vodafone works in line with our objectives of giving the needy children a fair chance to rise above their difficulties and chasing their dreams unhindered by the lack of resources.”

Vodafone donates Rs 5. 42 lakh to facilitate education for

underprivileged Kashmiri children

Lost It is for general information that I have lost my international Passport under No:H9447527. Now I have apply for its duplicate. If any body have any objection may contact the concern office of the Regional Passport Office, Boulevard Dal Gate Srinagar. After completion of time no objection will be entertained. Shafat Ahmad Bhat Ghulam Mohammad Bhat R/o: P. Depot Parimpora Srinagar.A

J

not tolerable by me and subsequently I left the meet-ing hall”, Lankar said.When asked about the resignation tendered by him, he said, naturally when the minster attacked me and used abusive language I accordingly submitted my resignation to the commissioner secretary.In a communication to Commissioner-Secretary of the department, Lankar said that he was abused by the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distri-bution Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan in a meeting today in presence of PHE Minister Sham Lal Sharma. “In view of grave provocative language used by CAPD Minister during the meeting I submit my resignation from the post of Chief Engineer and you are requested to make alternative arrangement for running the de-partment,” he said in the letter.However, the CAPD Minister Chowdhary Ramzan stongly denied allegations of PHE Chief Engineer and said he only sought answer about the 5.84 crore ru-pees embezzlement in a PHE Water Scheme at Ramhal Block of Handwara in Kupwara district.Talking to GNS, the Minister, who is also senior Na-tional Conference leader and MLA Handwara, said: “Neither had I abused him nor I slapped him. Basical-ly, the matter is that we had a review meeting of PHE in which Minister for PHE, lawmakers, engineers and even sarpanchs were also present.”“When I asked him about the embezzlement and lack of water supply, tapes and pipes, he stood up and said I am man of integrity and fumed up. He said don’t ask me anything. I told him people elect us and we are ac-countable to them and you are accountable to us. Even though his Minister scolded, he continued heated ar-guments. Then I left the hall,” Ramzan said. “I have always respected officers during my 30 year career and officers have also respected me. I can’t even think of misbehaving with any officer,” he added.The Minister said some three years ago he had passed a Central water supply worth 5 crore and 84 lakh ru-pees scheme for Ramhal. “However, the project nev-er got completed due to embezzlement of funds by concerned engineers and contractors. When I asked Chief Engineer about the embezzlement, he started to defend the officials and in the meantime, there were some heated arguments,” he said.Ramzan said last year during the review meeting on 28 July, he had told Minister for PHE that there is embezzlement of funds. “I told him to investigate the matter. So when the office of Honourable Minister is-sues minutes, they noted down that there is embezzle-ment of 50 lakh and asked for report within fortnight. But there was no probe,” he told GNS.The senior NC leader said in today’s review meet-ing, the PHE officials said that they have spent 5.50 crore rupees.”But I questioned them by saying there is no water or water pipes in the Ramhal block. Some pipes are on the on the ground but no pipes are under ground. I told them that not a single soul has benefited from the scheme despite such huge money being spent on the scheme,” Ramzan said, adding the Minister for PHE asked Executive Engineer, who has recently tak-en up the charge, about my question.The CAPD Minister said that Executive Engineer re-plied to PHE Minister by saying: “Yes Sir, he is right. We have spent 5.50 crore and now I don’t have any funds to provide water supply to the people of Ramhal. We have spent all money on papers.”The Minister said that in the past when embezzlement surfaced, an Executive Engineer was transferred to Anantnag.“Two months ago, on 28 June, 2014I had written a DO letter to the Minister about the embezzlement and had mentioned that there is a nexus between engineers and contractors. I sought an enquiry into the embez-zlement and demanded punishment under law.”On being asked about the embezzlement in the depart-ment, the Chief Engineer said the case is under inves-tigation by Crime Branch.Despite repeated attempts, the PHE Minister could not be contacted. Later when the news spread in the PHE office, the employees including the daily wagers held protest demonstrations and took out a protest march towards TRC. The protesting employees were raising slogans against the CAPD minister and demanded his resig-nation. The PHE employees union told later that the employees will observe strike on August 8 and will held protests against the CAPD minister.

Conference politicians are showcasing their real face. She said the fact is that the NC leadership has always employed such type of inhuman acts and it is not something new. “They (NC politicians) are frustrated and to hide their failures they now want to force the officers to resort to illegal methods to accommodate the ruling party agents,” she said.Mehbooba said that the assault on the officer becomes even more serious as the minister in charge of his de-partment, too, was reportedly present in the meeting and he could not protect his own head of the depart-ment. “Such an assault on any government official or for that matter with any citizen is unacceptable but in the case of the modest and upright officer of prone integrity like Mr M A Lanker, it becomes even more shocking,” she saidMehbooba said the ministers in the present govern-ment have mostly come into adverse notice for their acts of omission and commission, scams and scandals and misconduct with the officials and ordinary peo-ple and today’s incident has rightly sent shockwaves among the administration. Mehbooba said the PDP stands by Mr Lanker and would do everything to up-hold his dignity and self-respect. (GNS)

projects launched in the State from 1947 to 2008 in-cluding Baglihar HEP initiated by Dr. Farooq Abdul-lah, his government started power projects of over 1500 MWs capacity in just five years and laid neces-sary edifice for generating 9000 MWs in next six to seven years. Over 20 major Grid and Receiving Sta-tions have been completed besides construction of hundreds of Sub-Stations and installation of 18000 kilometre long transmission lines. He said two Data Centres have been commissioned at Srinagar and Jammu to benefit consumers. He said 30 towns have been brought under R-APDRP.Omar Abdullah said that per capita consumption of electricity has gone up from 742 units in 2007-08 to 946 units in 2013-14 which showed an increase of 27 per-cent. He said energy deficit has also declined from 37.71 percent in 2007-08 to 29 percent. He said energy supply has increased from 8744 million units in 2007-08 to 12714 million units in 2013-14 which accounts for 45 percent increase in five years.Dandipora Receiving Station has been constructed at a cost of over Rs. 194 lakhs while Marhama Receiving Station involved Rs. 207 lakhs and that of Khellan Re-ceiving Station Rs. 205 lakhs. In all the three Stations will benefit the population of about 10500 souls in over 50 villages.The villages which will be benefited by these Stations are Dandipora, Gohan,Vailoo, Pandobal, Lohar, Sen-ze, Cherward,Ahlan, Gadole, Bedihar, Mati, Desso, Duksum, Khartie, LArnoo, Nobugh, Draway, Shat-ru, Hllan, Laisoo Brenad, Goddraman, Matihadoo, Gavran, Tagwani Halmulla, Sether, Pujteng, Dagri-pora, Batpora Punjpora, Asthanpora, Check, Daddoo, Cheerehteng, Herpora, Marhama, Naibasti, Shiekh-pora, Kubpora, Kudangan, Balyaar,Sangam, Naina, Batapora, Khellan, Kawni, Liddermud, Kolapora, Bandna, Badripora, Pati, Braoo Bandena, Mellora, Wanduna and other satellite villages.It was stated on the occasion that Maintenance and Rural Electrification Kashmir Wing of Power Devel-opment Department caters to around 7.8 lakh con-sumers with registered load of 1045 MWs of which 573 MWs account for domestic use. During 2013-14 as many as 636 million units of electric energy was sup-plied to consumers in Kashmir Valley which stands at 2284.6 million units during this year by the end of July

as against 2021 million units supplied in 2013 in the same period thus recording an increase of over 13.01 percent in energy supply. (KNS)

no one listening to their woes. The reports about the state departments running headless here have be-come the order of the day, affecting the administrative set up of various departments, making the people to suffer at large.In the recent past, the government had to reappoint Irfan Yaseen Shah as the vice chairman LAWDA as there was no one in the authority who could rein the office. Reports maintained that due to the absence of the chairman LAWDA during the past, the function-ing of the authority got affected with its reflection seen on the Dal waters.The SDA employees have stated that due to the head-less authority, the office is getting affected after every day and that the state authorities must take the im-mediate steps. Urban Development minister Nawang Ringzin Jora when contacted told KNS that he will take up the matter with the chief minister so that im-mediate action on ground could be taken. (KNS)

of the people involved with the sector. “Apple produc-tion has considerably decreased in Kashmir over the last five years, which is the matter of huge concern for all of us,” she said. The PDP president, however, said the sector will be among the priority areas for her party in future and serious efforts will be put in to get it back on rails. She said regeneration of old orchards, increase in apple productivity and proper irrigation facilities to orchards is a must and the PDP will seri-ously work towards this.Mehbooba said the apple crop has been hit by diseases across Kashmir and districts of Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and parts of Budgam are the worst hit. “Many diseases have attacked apple plants and almost all orchards are threatened causing nearly total devasta-tion of the crop,” she said addingthe diseases are leaving a long term impact as well, which could permanently hurt the industry that is providing sustenance to the huge population across the Valley. She said during the current year also due to hostile climatic conditions and onslaught of diseas-es the sector is facing with huge losses.

will also investigate. They have also registered a case and whosoever is found guilty, would be punished.”A section of officials however maintain that the cabin had been set on fire.Meanwhile, police have registered a case under FIR number 66/2014 under section 435 RPC in this regard and further investigations taken up. (GNS)

succumbed to injuries.The other three injured have been identified as Lieutenant Vijay Shanker Yadav (belt no. SS46916N), Naik Sanwar Mal Godara (belt no. 2896342W) and Anand Kumar (16013932N) and were re-ferred to army’s 92 Base Hospital here in Srinagar for specialized treatment.The condition of all the three soldiers is said to be se-rious, the official said.Meanwhile, police has registered a case and stated further investigations in this regard. (GNS)

the party are united under the able and visionary lead-ership of Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Working President Omar Abdullah and Shaheen’s uttering are figments of his imagination and could be perhaps motivated solely by personal ambitions and interests. The show-cause notice gives Shaheen a week to re-spond and clarify his stand, failing which strict dis-ciplinary action will be initiated against him by the party. (KNS)

procedure and that was something very disturbing. Prof. Soz has requested the Minister to make the posi-tion clear in this behalf. (KNS)

in businesses would have this bank at their back,” he said and further stated that the bank has been at the forefront of socio-economic upliftment of the peo-ple while pushing the limits of entrepreneurship and enterprise for a deeper and sustainable economic de-velopment. The bank plays a key role in providing indirect employment to considerable number of en-trepreneurs. Going beyond its core business and prof-it-making, J&K Bank renders great service to the peo-ple of J&K through its growing CSR activities, he said.The bank has been forthcoming in modernization of education by providing computer systems generously to various schools and trusts. Likewise the bank has

been financially taking care of education of scores of special children at various institutes across the state.He said, “This bank has made all its share holders proud not only in the state but across the country. I wish these welfare projects under CSR reach all the poor and needy in the state as it means our collective welfare and success in the longer run.”Mushtaq Ahmad, Chairman & CEO, Jammu & Kashmir Bank said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of the CSR programme through this platform along with PNB MetLife, our bancassurance partner for last 13 years. United in spirit, today we jointly announce our programmes to work towards education and de-velopment of underprivileged children in J&K.”He added, “From matters of health care, heri-tage preservation to poverty alleviation, promo-tion of education to eco-conservation; our CSR policy has been to instill a sense of relief and protection among the most vulnerable sections of society. Now that the scope of such policy has widened immensely we have also broadened our CSR agenda for deeper impact in the societies we operate in. This is just one of the initiatives that we are launching in the state under the agenda”, he added.Mushtaq expressed his optimism that “KOSHISH” would bring smiles on the faces on crying underprivileged children.Speaking on the initiatives, Mr. Christopher Townsend, President Asia, MetLife Inc said, “MetLife has always had a strong global focus on Corporate Social Responsibility. We have many projects across the globe focused on sup-porting and empowering local communities via the MetLife Foundation in areas like Financial Inclusion. Continuing our proud history of com-munity development and support, I am excited to be here today to launch PNB MetLife’s the CSR programme in the state of Jammu & Kashmir with our long-standing partner JKB supporting education and development of underprivileged children.”Talking about the programme, Mr. Tarun Chugh, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, PNB MetLife, said “This is indeed an exciting day for us as we leverage the local expertise of JKB to launch our CSR programme in the state. This is the first step and we are evaluating proj-ects across the country on education and devel-opment of underprivileged children. We arrived at the agenda of child education after research-ing and evaluating the need of the local commu-nities we were setting up projects in. We hope to make a sustainable difference to the society with our projects with CRY in J&K.”He added, “We have had a successful relation-ship with JKB over the last 13 years and we have secured lives of over 200,000 customers and set-tled close to 1100 claims worth Rs 24 cr.”Talking about CRY’s experience in the state, Puja Marwaha, CEO, CRY – Child Rights and You said, “Working in J&K has its set of unique chal-lenges. However, working with our local partner since 2005 we have gathered a deep understand-ing of the on-ground realties that are barriers to children’s rights, especially education. Lack of access to schools and discrimination of girl children are few of the issues faced by children here. We work on mobilizing the communities, its leaders and in tandem with government sys-tems to bring about positive and lasting change in the lives of these children.” (KNS)

LOST I have lost my 8th Pass certificate somewhere. Now I have applied for its duplicate. Anybody having objection in this regard may file the same in the office of the Principal, Govt. Hr. Secondary School, Nagam within 7 days after that no objec-tion will be entertained.

Bilal Ahmad SheikhS/o Mohammad Ismail SheikhR/o Bayeena Chadoora

saving their precious time and lessening down the burden on already burdened tertiary hospi-tals. Director Health Services, Kashmir Dr Sal-eem-ur-Rehman has complimented the operative team and the administrator of CHC Sopore for attaining such a remarkable feat. (KNS)

The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. Baramulla Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)

Unidentified body recovered in Leh

Srinagar, Aug 7 (KNS): An unidentified male body was recovered by police in Hemischu area of Leh District last evening. Leh police recovered an un-in-dentified male body at NHW near Hemischu, Leh in suspicious condition. The body of deceased is lying in mortuary room of Sub District Hospital, Khaltsi for identification. Leh Police has registered a case FIR 89/14 under section 279, 304A RPC registered to ascertain the identity and cause of the death of the deceased. (KNS)

Boy drowns in SoporeSrinagar, Aug 7 (KNS): A 10 year old boy Imran Ah-mad Bhat son of Abdul Gani resident of Dubgah Sopore drowned in river Jehlum at Dubgah Sopore while bathing in the river. The body of the boy was later retrieved and handed over to his relatives for last rites. (KNS)

Former trooper succumbs to injuries

Srinagar, Aug 7: (GNS) A former Border Security Force soldier who was injured on July 31 after being shot at by unknown gunmen at Kaksari area here in Srinagar city succumbed to injuries on Saturday.A police official told GNS that former BSF trooper Nazir Ahmad Shah of Maidan Poran Lolab Kupwara today succumbed to injuries at SMHS Hospital here in Srinagar.

CRPF man dies of heart attack

Srinagar, Aug 7: (GNS) A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper Thursday died of heart attack in Srinagar city.Constable Rakesh Kumar, 37, of 32 Bn of CRPF suf-fered a cardiac arrest during duty near civil secre-tariat here, a police official said.He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead, he said.

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS SRINAGAR | FRIDAY 08. 08 .2014

Announces Rs 78 lakh WSS for

KaraporaKARAPORA (BUDGAM), AU-

GUST 8- Saying that socio -eco-nomic emancipation of the people of J&K is mission of the present government, the Minister for Fi-nance & Ladakh Affairs, Mr Abdul Rahim Rather today reiterated commitment of the government to ameliorate the lot of poor and down trodden sections of the society. He said it was for the first time that a comprehensive and futuristic plan-ning has been devised to optimally exploit various natural resources abundantly available in the state to ensure its holistic development and progress.

Addressing public gatherings at

Chak Karapora and Karapora vil-lages in tehsil Chadoora, Mr Rather said that inclusive and holistic de-velopment of the state is possible only when it’s natural resources es-pecially vast hydle resources, huge tourism potential, abundant miner-al reserves and unique horticulture are exploited optimally adding that it was only keeping this fact in view that the Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah has accorded first priori-ty to utilize these sectors for making J&K a self reliant state. He exuded confidence that after next few years, when the under execution projects in various sectors of life are com-pleted, the state will become one of the self sustained and progressive states of the country. “other sectors of life like road connectivity, Public Health Engineering, Education, Ru-ral development etc. have also un-dergone a turnaround during last five and a half years of the present government,” Rather maintained.

He said execution of devel-opment works on massive scale in nook and corner has steered the state on the thresh hold of a big so-cio economic revolution and the people of the state have started to reap its fruits. He sought people’s wholehearted cooperation to fruc-tify dream of Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah to make J&K a prosperous and progressive self re-liant state where every citizen shall have equal opportunity of justice and progress.

Mr Rather cautioned the people against false propaganda of the opposition parties adding that they are unnerved with the un prec-edented achievements recorded during last five and half years of the present government .” This long march toward ushering the state into an era of lasting peace and pros-perity shall continue relentlessly without any let up, with the support of the people.

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 07: Min-isters for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, Transport Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan and Minister for Roads and Build-ings, Mechanical Engineering Mr. Abdul Majid Wani, took a detailed review of various road projects taken up under PMGSY, NAB-ARD, R&B and JKPCC in Hand-wara Assembly Constituency, at a high level meeting of officers here today.

The meeting was informed that 17 schemes from phase 4th to 9th at an estimated cost of Rs 45.28 crore have been taken up in Handwara constituency during the year 2013-14, out of which 10 schemes have been completed, while as work on remaining schemes is in progress.

It was also given out in the meeting that an amount of Rs 35.47 crore has been incurred on these projects thus completing 59.54 Km out of target of 73.60 Km to be achieved in Phase Ist and 2nd. The meeting was informed

that 9 habitations in the area have been connected with a massive road network so far. A left over population of 18000 persons resid-ing in 55 habitations will also be

connected with major towns and highways in a phased manner, the meeting was informed.

Minister for R&B has consti-tuted a 4-member team compris-ing Superintending Engineers of R&B and PMGSY, Executive En-gineer and AEE of the concerned district and directed them to have on spot visit to check and verify that whether the work has been executed as per specifications. He

directed them to submit report within a week. He assured that an Executive Engineer will be posted in R&B Division Handwara with-in two days positively so that con-

struction work on road projects is expedited.

The Ministers directed the of-ficers to ensure the completion of all ongoing projects with one and half month so that people get ben-efitted as early as possible. They said that the government has un-dertaken a comprehensive road connectivity programme in Hand-wara constituency which should be completed without delay.

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: Social Activists, Mr. Gh-ulam Ahmad Bhat, a Kabir Purasakar Awardee, and Dr. Mir Audil Farooq called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Gov-ernor, here at the Raj Bhavan today.Mr. Bhat and Dr. Mir apprised the Governor about the varied problems faced by large segments of population who live in Sri-nagar and Budgam districts, particularly the poor maintenance of important road networks, erratic power supply, and various social issues.

KUAA Schools’ Teachers and Staff calls on Governor

Srinagar, August 7: A deputation of the teachers and staff of two Kashmir University Primary Schools at Anchar, Soura and Shanpora, Habak led by Mr. Maroof Hussain called on Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra, Chancellor of Kashmir University, here at the Raj Bhavan today. Both these schools were established by the Kashmir University Alumni Association over a decade ago.The deputation apprised the Governor about the uncertainty of their tenures and the various hardships being faced by them.

The Governor assured the delegation that their grievances shall be urgently taken up with the Vice Chancellor.

Rather asks people to shun differences,work unitedly for the cause of people

Ramzan, Wani reviews progress of R&B works in Handwara

Ghulam Ahmad Bhat calls on Governor

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 07 – Chief Secretary, Mo-

hammad Iqbal Khandey, today reviewed the prepa-rations underway to roll out the new administra-tive units and dedicate these to the people of the State at the earliest.

Weekly review meet-ings are being held by

the Chief Secretary with the concerned adminis-

trative secretaries to put in place all the necessary infrastructure alongwith deployment and adjust-ment of functionaries to make these units fully op-erational.

Mr Khandey stressed on necessary coordina-

tion among concerned departments to stream-

line the whole process, besides asking the con-cerned secretaries to provide status reports in this regard on a weekly basis.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Planning and Development, B. R. Sharma, Principal Secretary Finance, B. B. Vyas, Adminis-

trative Secretaries from Revenue, R&B, Rural Development, General Administration Depart-ment, Information Tech-nology besides Divisional Commissioners Kashmir and Jammu and other se-nior officers.

SRINAGAR,AUGUST 07: Heading towards highest ever business turnover of Rs.1000 crore during current financial year, the Jammu and Kashmir Small Scale Industries Development Corpora-tion Limited (SICOP) has registered a turnover of Rs.904.81 crore during last financial year, there by yielding an in-come of Rs.26.07 crore for the Corpora-tion.

This was stated at the 84th meeting of Board of Directors of SICOP held under the Chairmanship of Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, who is also chairman of the Board, Mr. Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo , here today.

The Board reviewed physical and financial achievements of the Corpora-tion for the last financial year and first quarter of the current financial year, besides, held threadbare discussion and made appropriate decisions to make the Corporation more vibrant, progressive and profitable.

Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai , Principal Secretary Planning and Development, Mr. B. R. Shrama, were present in the meeting.

The Board also reviewed follow up action of previous board meeting. It also approved the enhancement of retire-ment age of its employees from 58 to 60 as per already issued Government deci-sion.

The Board reviewed the status of var-ious ongoing projects including Sanat Ghar, which is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 27.21 crore at Bemina , Sri-nagar. The Sanat Ghar will accommo-date offices of all Heads of Departments and Corporations under the Adminis-trative Control of Industries and Com-merce Department under one roof. The Board gave a time line of one month for its completion and directed M D SICOP to ensure work in double shift.

The meeting also reviewed the prog-

CS reviews operationalization of new administrative units

84th meeting of Board of Directors of SICOP HeldSICOP touching Rs. 1000 cr turn-over during this fiscal: Kichloo

Srinagar, August 7: Mr. Ghazi Ghulam Nabi, known nationalist poet and writer, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at the Raj Bhavan today.

Mr. Nabi presented to the Governor a copy of the revised edition of “Phool Khila Kashmir Ka” a volume of his poems. The poems are on universal brotherhood and communal harmony.Mr. Nabi also discussed with the Governor the need for the intellec-tuals being enabled to play a larger role in fostering peace and harmony in the State.The Governor com-plimented Mr. Nabi for writing a meaningful volume of poems and appreciated his serious concern for the maintenance of peace and harmony.

Association of Recognized Private B.Ed. Colleges calls

on GovernorSRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: A deputation of Association of Recognized Private B.Ed. Colleges led by Mr. R.S. Chib, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at the Raj Bhavan yesterday.

The deputation apprised the Governor about the pressing difficulties which were being faced by the private B.Ed. colleges in the Jammu region.

Ghazi Ghulam Nabi calls on Governor

Directs for early finalization of new Edu policySRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: In

order to take appraisal of various schemes being implemented by the school education department, Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand convened a high-level meeting of officers here today.

Secretary School Education, Nirmal Sharma, State Project Director, RMSA/SSA, S.A. La-harwal, Director School Educa-tion, Kashmir, Mir Tariq Ali, Di-rector School Education, Jammu, H.R. Pakhroo, Director Finance, Education, Shadi Lal Pandita, Joint Secretary, BOSE, Renu Go-swami and other officers of SSA/RMSA and school education at-tended the meeting.While taking schematic review of flagship pro-grammes of Central Government namely RMSA and SSA, the Dep-uty Chief Minister directed the concerned officers to speed up the pace and achieve the targets

well within the stipulated time frame so that the benefits of these programmes percolate down to the needy. He emphasized the need for maintaining quality of works strictly as laid down speci-fications so that the durable as-sets are created. He also called for ensuring coordinated efforts and effective monitoring mechanism to achieve the desired results on

ground.Taking serious note on the delay of framing the draft ed-ucation policy, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned officers to expedite the process and finalize the proposed document at the earliest. He reiterated the Government’s commitment for putting in place an effective edu-cation policy in order to improve the overall educational scenario

in the State. He called for conven-ing an early meeting of panel con-stituted for the purpose to discuss the present status of the proposed draft.Regarding the issue of dis-bursement of salaries to the SSA/RMSA teachers, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the Secretary School Education to take up the issue with the Finance Depart-ment for early release of funds so

that the outstanding salaries of all such teachers are disbursed early.State Project Director, RMSA/SSA while giving details about the projects that are un-derway under both the flagship programmes said that works are in full swing and all out efforts are being made to accomplish the targets within the stipulated time frame.

Tara Chand calls for expeditious completion of SSA/RMSA projects

Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the tough-est of days far easier to handle. You’ll be amazed how much you can manage when there’s an end in plain sight. Your entire attitude can lighten. So take the bull by the horns and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.

Don’t judge someone if he or she has a different lifestyle than what you consider to be OK, Scorpio. You probably lean toward the traditional, yet not everyone feels this way about re-lationships, working, or lifestyle. While it may seem impossible to understand and even frighten you, try not to be too harsh on those you deem odd. You’d be better off using that energy to keep your own life on track.

Friends seeking advice or a shoulder to cry on could be plentiful today, Sagittarius. You’re one of best people to give them the support and care they need. Just be sure that you don’t give so much to others that you don’t have anything left for yourself. True friendship is about sharing and the exchange of problems and help. Running yourself down will leave you in a place where you aren’t going to be much help to anyone.

Getting through today shouldn’t pose too big a problem for you, Capricorn. You may feel a huge second wind that can give you the drive and determination to see your chores and projects through. Make some plans for this evening, such as getting to-gether with friends or taking in an event that really intrigues you. Until then, go about your tasks bit by bit. You’ll get things finished before you know it.

Working within boundaries and restrictions could really get to you today, Aquarius. Yours is an independent spirit and your best achievements are often born of doing things your own way. Yet like it or not, we all have to follow guidelines and rules. Do your best to follow suit and finish what needs to be done. Afterward, you may find more freedom to act independently without consequences. Exercise patience and diligence as needed today.

Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feel-ing less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and ex-tended family can pick up on your spirit without you even real-izing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.

Feeling the effects of today’s energies, Virgo? Take heart if this is the case, because the end of the tunnel isn’t as far away as it seems. Do your best to take things one step at a time and see about making some plans for a little fun this evening. Get together with friends or take in a movie. Help yourself feel better by staying busy and focused and follow up with some recreation. Before you know it, the aspect will pass and you’ll be back to normal.

Don’t discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Aries. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren’t all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.

Try not to let today’s blues get you down, Taurus. While it’s true that some days can seem to drag on, the busier you are the faster time will pass. Get down to finishing any work still before you and then make plans for tonight. If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not only will things seem to speed up but you’ll feel better knowing it’s coming.

Dare to be different, Gemini. It can be so easy to fall into a drill. Sleeping at the same time, eating at the same time, wearing the same style, and going about work the same way day after day. Be-fore you know it, you feel like you’re in a rut. The only way to get away from this is to make a decision to break free by doing some-thing unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.

If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, re-sist feeling self-conscience about it today, Cancer. Try to remember that you chose the life you have for specific reasons. Even if you’ve come to a point where you’re considering a change, there’s no need to feel badly, ashamed, or embarrassed about where you are now. Everyone has to make his or her own way. If this conforms to the norm, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too.

An enhanced feeling of determination could motivate you today, Leo. Finish the things that aren’t complete and make some plans for this evening. Don’t hesitate to take on something that feels compli-cated or big. Chances are you’ll be able to handle most anything and it will feel great when it’s finished. Enjoy your day by making the most of opportunity.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar, Friday 08 August 2014

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

Illegal felling of walnut trees

continues unabated

“You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if you

do not trust enough”

Quote of the day

Frank Crane

The environmental degradation in whole of the world is caus-ing many problems not only for the world

populace but for all living things including flora and fau-na. Our state is also facing the same problem on many counts as the forests are being reduced to barren land and the trees in the plains are being cut in such a way that day is not far when the state will become a cold desert. The majestic Chinar trees have been felled in hun-dreds and efforts of planting new Chinar trees have hardly yielded desired results. From Uri to Anantnag hundreds of Chinar trees standing like roy-al kings on both sides of the road have gradually vanished and one does not find new trees in their place where they used to grow in large number. Sim-ilarly once forbidden mulberry trees which were also in abun-dance in the valley have been massacred by those greedy peo-ple who have no consideration about the importance of these trees. It is because of the blind felling of mulberry trees that the ultimate business of silk weaving has suffered a jolt as the weavers fail to get the required raw material and of course no proper marketing for the silk products. After these two kinds of trees were removed, the greedy smug-glers have now switched over to walnut trees which are being felled indiscriminately in every nook and corner of the valley. Though there is ban on felling of walnut trees, but who cares in Kashmir? No authority or of-ficer is exercising his writ and powers to create a kind of con-trol on illegal felling of walnut trees as the elements responsi-ble for it are greasing the palms of the concerned officials. The walnut timber is in great de-mand as it is used in making expensive furniture and dec-oration items which have a flourishing market in and out-side state. However, it does not mean that we allow to finish up all our walnut trees and stop growing walnut which too has a good market and fetch lucra-tive returns for the growers. It is imperative for the govt. to launch a campaign against il-legal felling of walnut trees so that valley does not loose them like the way it happened in case of Chinar and mulberry trees.