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DDC stresses on speedy  completion of PMGSY Road in Shopian

Precious Kashmir
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SHOPIAN: The District Development Commissioner, Shopian, Sachin Kumar Vaishya today inspected theShirmal to Mastpora Keller road and other ongoing works under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

During the visit, the DC was accompanied by Tehsildar, Shopian, Bilal Ahmed, Engineers from PMGSY and other concerned officers.

While inspecting the progress on Shirmal to Mastpora Keller road, the concerned informed the DC that the sanctioned length of this road is 15 km at sanctioned cost Rs 20 Crore and a total of 40 percent physical work has been completed so far and the progress on the project is also in full swing, he informed.

While highlighting the benefits of better road connectivity for development of rural areas, the DC stressed for redoubling efforts and regular monitoring of such roads so that they could be completed well in time without any hurdles.

He directed the concerned officers to immediately settle all issues that are hampering the progress of projects like land compensation, court cases (if any), shifting of utilities, forest issues etc. so that road infrastructure in rural areas is developed in the shortest possible time.

He also directed the officers of PMGSY to expedite the work progress on all ongoing/pending schemes so that they get completed in a time bound manner.

The DC said that it is a lifeline project keeping in view the Covid-19 scenario and it should be taken on priority basis for the safety and security of the patients.

The DC exhorted upon for optimum utilizing the working season and stressed for greater coordination among the line departments for removing all bottlenecks that are hampering the progress of Road projects in the district in larger public interest.

Meanwhile, the DC also visited the other project sites and inspected the work progress of the projects.

The DC directed the concerned to expedite the work progress and stressed that all stakeholders shall work with synergy to complete projects in a time bound manner which on completion will provide all weather connectivity and facilitate Socio-economic boost to the district.

Covid Waves And Preparation

Precious Kashmir
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Covid Waves And Preparation

Lives and livelihood have been lost on account of a marauding covid-19. Recently, the J&K government, in view of the lesser number of cases compared to previous two months, eased restrictions which were placed to arrest the spread of the pandemic when it started to peak.

Though on a decline, the second wave is far from over. It is in such a scenario that some experts believe that it may be seeding the ground for a possible third wave.

The questions also galore if the 3rd wave could be more serious than the previous ones. Based on a mathematical modelling study led by the scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Imperial College London, scientists believe that the third was not going to be devastating than the one going on, although on decline.

However, the vaccination remains the key as well as its efficacy against the new variants. Also optimism is high among the concerned quarters that governments, including Jammu and Kashmir, are better prepared.

By now, the governments have gauged what is needed to tide out the peak phases in case the third wave hits.

While a third wave is expected to be significantly buffered by expanding vaccination, there are signals of caution as well.

A study of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, the virus which causes COVID-19, suggests that current vaccines may be less effective against the Beta variant first identified in South Africa.

The study, published in the journal Science on June 24, used cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to compare the spike protein from the original virus found in China in 2019, with that of the Beta variant, and the Alpha variant first identified in the UK.

Cryo-Em is an imaging technique used to determine the biomolecular structures at near-atomic resolution.

Amid rising concerns over the Delta Plus variant of the virus, India’s Covid Task Force chief VK Paul, who is also a NITI Aayog Member, asserted that there is no scientific data so far to establish that the new variant was highly transmissible or reduces vaccine efficacy.

Regarding another wave, he said, it would be dependent on several factors, including overall discipline in terms of Covid-appropriate behaviour, testing and containment strategies, and vaccination rates.

In nutshell, vaccination, masks, avoiding crowds and physical distancing remain the main protection against the ravaging virus for the foreseeable future. The people are thus expected to follow them religiously.

Ensure uniform pace of expenditure during ongoing fiscal: Govt to DCs

Ibni Maqbool
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Ensure uniform pace of expenditure during ongoing fiscal: Govt to DCs

‘Every work shall be physically verified; Undertake third party inspections of high-value works’

By: Ibni Maqbool

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Monday directed the District Development Commissioners (DDCs) to ensure uniform pace of expenditure during the ongoing financial year.

According to an order issued by the Finance department, all the DDCs have been directed to ensure that the expenditure out of allotted funds are made in stipulated timeframe within the quarter(s) for which the funds have been released.

“All the DDCs shall ensure uniform pace of expenditure during the financial year 2021-22. The overall ceiling of 30% expenditure shall be maintained during the last quarter of the financial year 2021-22. The expenditure during the last month of the financial year 2021-22 shall be restricted to 15% of the budget allocation,” reads the order, a copy of which is in possession of Precious Kashmir.

The government today released 50% budget under district capital expenditure (CAPEX) in favour of District Development Commissioners.

According to the order, each work should be 100% physically verified and third party test inspections shall be conducted in respect of high value works.

“No diversion shall be made under any pretext unless expressly authorized by the Finance Department,” the order states.

The DDCs have also been directed to monitor the expenditure statements and furnish the same before 5th of following month for monthly review by the Finance department.

“The execution of works shall be taken up strictly for the approved activities only within the approved cost and no liability shall be created ensuring financial discipline in the system,” the order states.

According to the order, the controlling officers shall be personally responsible for any liability created on account of un-approved/un-authorized works.

“The projects/schemes shall be executed and completed strictly within the timeline as stipulated in the tender document and as fixed by the competent Authority,” it reads.

The Finance department, in its order, also said that the ban on engagement on casual workers, need based workers, daily wagers etc. shall continue to be in force.

“All development/capex release order issued by DDCs to the respective sectoral officers shall invariably have the condition that the departments shall refrain from making fresh engagements under projects/schemes,” it directed.

J&K admin gears up to tackle possible 3rd Covid wave

Afaq Bhat
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J&K admin gears up to tackle possible 3rd Covid wave

50 cases of Delta plus variant detected in 12 states

By: Afaq Bhat

Srinagar: The third wave of COVID-19 could be on its way to Jammu and Kashmir as more than 50 cases of Delta plus variant have been reported in a few states across the country.

When the COVID-19 second wave was relenting the experts had sounded an alert about a possible third wave and the virus mutating again.  Till now, no case of Delta Plus variant has been reported in the Valley but the people cannot be complacent.

A medico while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “The new variant has arrived and it can sneak into the Valley anytime. We need to remain prepared. The vaccination holds the key. People also need to follow the COVID-19 sops in letter and spirit to keep the virus at bay.”

On Monday, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Ajaz Asad paid surprise visit to the city shopping complexes and said that all unvaccinated persons visiting any shopping store/complex/ malls in Srinagar will have to undergo for COVID-19 testing and after his report comes negative will be given entry in the said shopping mall. Those having a prior 48 hours negative report will not be subjected to repeat testing.

The administration in Kashmir is gearing up to tackle the “possible third wave” which could break out and the advisories are being issued on a daily basis. “The second wave taught us many lessons. The alarm has already been sounded. No chances can be taken. People should bear in mind that the situation can turn ugly if they don’t follow the SOPs,” the medico added.

He said that at present the COVID-19 cases are on decline but it doesn’t mean that the pandemic has ended. “During the second wave hospitals witnessed huge rush of patients and all the major hospitals in Kashmir had been turned into Covid hospitals. Keeping the virus at bay is in our own hands. For time being people should refrain from organizing big weddings as the marriage season in the Valley is on. There is no need to travel unnecessarily. Wearing masks is mandatory and we should make it a habit,” the medico added.

An expert said, “The third wave can be contained if we remain careful. Till now we have already witnessed two waves and are aware about how fast this deadly virus spreads. To stop the Covid from spreading is in our own hands. We cannot just wait for the government to act. We have to be cautious. Eid-ul-Fitr is just 20-days away. We should ensure that we maintain discipline rather than thronging the markets.”

India believes in resolving disputes through dialogue: Rajnath

United News Of India
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India believes in resolving disputes through dialogue: Rajnath

Inaugurates 63 infra projects, says BRO significant in development of country

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that India believes in resolving disputes through dialogue with neighbouring countries, but is always prepared to give a befitting reply if provoked.

Interacting with the officers and jawans of Indian Army’s 14 Corps at Karu Military Station in Ladakh, he reiterated government’s stand of resolving disputes through dialogue with neighbouring countries, but assured the nation that safety and security of the nation will not be compromised at any cost.

He assured all possible support to the Armed Forces, reaffirming the vision of the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, of a strong military that is capable of dealing with every eventuality.

Paying rich tributes to the brave jawans who laid down their lives in the service of the nation during the Galwan Valley incident last year, he said that the country will never forget their supreme sacrifice and lauded the exemplary courage displayed by the Indian Army during the incident. He stated that the nation is proud of its Armed Forces.

Defence Minister also commended the 14th Corps for their invaluable contribution during the 1965 Indo-Pak War as well as the 1999 Kargil war.

General Officer-Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen YK Joshi and General Officer Commanding of the 14 Corps Lt Gen PGK Menon were among those present on the occasion.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also inaugurated 63 infrastructure projects constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in eight states from the Union Territory on the second day of his three-day visit to Ladakh.

Lauding the BRO for playing a significant role in connecting many parts of the country, Singh said connectivity has great importance in the development of a country. “I would like to congratulate BRO, particularly the personnel who are involved in construction, for the extraordinary work it has done. There is no double about the fact that the roads and bridges being BRO constructed is increasing the pace of development in the country,” Singh on Monday here said after virtually inaugurating 63 infrastructure projects constructed by BRO in eight different states.

Singh said at a time the whole country was struggling with COVID-19 pandemic, BRO was busy with its activities. “Few days back 12 roads were inaugurated. Today 63 roads and bridges were inaugurated, taking the number of projects to 75. So, when we are in the 75th year of Independence, BRO has dedicated 75 infrastructure projects to the nation,” he said.

He said connectivity is very important for the development of a nation. “Like blood vessels are important for humans, roads are important for the development of a nation. If there are no bridges and roads, the nation can’t develop. I can say this with certainty that without roads and bridges, a nation can’t remain secured…That’s why I’m saying that the BRO is vital for development and security of the country,” he said.

Later, the Defence Minister visited Karu Military Station in Ladakh. Singh, who arrived here on Sunday, is scheduled to attend a function organized by local administration between 1400 hrs and 1600 hrs on Monday.

On Sunday, the Defence Minister met elected representatives of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC), Kargil and Leh. He also interacted with 300 veterans at Leh and reiterated the Government’s commitment towards the welfare of the ex-servicemen. He was also briefed about the security situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Eastern Ladakh by the senior Army officials, including GOC Fire and Fury Corps.

Singh on Sunday arrived in Ladakh to review the overall security situation in the hinterland and along the borders in the Union Territory. The Defence Minister’s visit to Ladakh holds significance as it comes days after India and China held a fresh round of talks and agreed to resolve ‘remaining issues’ to end the prolonged military standoff that began in May last year along the LAC in eastern Ladakh.

At the 22nd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), held virtually, the two sides agreed to hold the next (12th) round of the Senior Commanders meeting at an early date to achieve the objective of complete disengagement from all the friction points along the LAC. “The two sides had a frank exchange of views on the situation along the LAC in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas,” a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

It said that both sides agreed on the need to find an early resolution to the remaining issues along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh keeping in view the agreement reached between the two Foreign Ministers in September 2020.

“In this regard, the two sides agreed to maintain dialogue and communication through the diplomatic and military mechanisms to reach a mutually acceptable solution for complete disengagement from all friction points so as to ensure full restoration of peace and tranquility to enable progress in the bilateral relations. They also agreed that in the interim, the two sides will continue to ensure stability on the ground and prevent any untoward incident,” the statement added. (UNI)

Encounter breaks out in Sgr outskirts

Precious Kashmir
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CRPF’s Assistant Commandant among 3 injured

Srinagar: An Assistant Commandant of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and two other paramilitary personnel were injured in an ongoing gunfight at Malhoora area of Parimpora Srinagar on Monday, officials said.

They said that the officer identified as Satender Kumar suffered injuries and was removed to hospital.

Mohammad Waseem (constable) and a Sub Inspector Shivam Kumar sustained the injuries and were shifted to Army hospital at Badamibagh Srinagar and SMHS here respectively, they said.

Confirming the injuries to CRPF men, a police officer said that the “operation” was continuing and so far no militant has been killed. Earlier police and security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation amid specific information about the presence of the militants.

As the joint team reached the suspected spot, militants opened fire which was retaliated, triggering off the gunfight. (GNS)

Top LeT commander arrested: IGP

Precious Kashmir
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Srinagar: A top commander of Lashker-e-Toiba (LeT) was arrested from Parimpora area of Srinagar, officials said on Monday.

They said that top LeT Commander Nadeem Abrar alias Abu Brar, allegedly “involved in several militancy related incidents,” was arrested from an alto car near Ansari Toyato crossing near Parimpora.

Confirming the arrest, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Vijay Kumar, described it as “Big success for us.”

“Top LeT commander Nadeem Abrar arrested. He was involved in several killings. Big success for us,” IGP Kashmir said. (GNS)

Awantipora attack: Toll mounts to three

Jahangeer Ganaie
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SPO, wife, daughter shot dead; IGP says 2 JeM militants involved

By: Jehangeer Ganai

Pulwama: The death toll in Harparigam, Awantipora attack Monday reached three after the daughter of slain cop also succumbed at Srinagar hospital.

Earlier, Special Police Officer (SPO) Fayaz Ahmed and his wife had succumbed late night yesterday soon after the attack at their house in village Hariparigam. Fayaz, his wife Raja Bano and their daughter Rafia had sustained serious bullet wounds. While Fayaz and his wife breathed their last at GMC Anantnag, Rafia was rushed to SKIMS Soura for advanced treatment.

Police said that at least two gunmen barged into their house and fired at Fayaz and when his wife and daughter tried to save him, the gunmen fired at them too leaving them in a pool of blood.

A doctor at SKIMS, Soura said that Rafia succumbed to bullet injuries early Monday morning. “She was 25-year-old,” the doctor said.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar visited Haripargam and met the family members of slain. He expressed his solidarity with the bereaved family. Later talking to reporters at Hariparigam, the IGP said: “Two foreign militants from Jaish-e-Muhamad outfit carried out the attack at Hariparigam area late night yesterday killing an SPO, his wife and his daughter. There is a movement of Jaish militants in the area and it seems that two foreign militants have carried out the attack.”

He said that further identification of two attackers is on. “Militants first fired at the SPO (Fayaz Ahmed) and his wife and daughter tried to save him, they too were fired upon,” the IGP said.

Pertinently, as per official sources, Fayaz, who was serving as SPO in J&K Police was threatened to resign before two years but he preferred to continue his job in police. His son Liyaqat Fayaz is a Territorial Army soldier and is posted in Pulwama district. Liayaqat got married two years ago and has little son and wife in his family now. (KNO)

J&K reports 259 cases, lowest in 94 days

Nadeem Nadu
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By: Nadeem Nadu

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir reported 259 fresh covid-19 cases, lowest single-day tally in 94 days, even as six more people succumbed to the virus in the last 24 hours, officials said on Monday.

They said 90 of the fresh cases were reported from Jammu Division and 169 from Kashmir Valley, taking the total count to 314990.

Regarding deaths, the officials said that all of them were reported from Kashmir Valley and none from Jammu Division, taking the fatality count 4310.

Providing the district-wide details, the officials said that Srinagar reported 64 cases, Baramulla 13, Budgam 12, Pulwama 14, Kupwara 31, Anantnag 11, Bandipora 10, Ganderbal 6, Kulgam 6, Shopian 2, Jammu 2, Udhampur 2, Rajouri 12, Doda 9, Kathua 4, Samba 3, Kishtwar 14, Poonch 8, Ramban 7 and Reasi 29 (all travelers).

Moreover, they said, 864 more COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours—375 from Jammu Division and 489 from Kashmir.  304398 patients have recovered so far, leaving active cases at 5630—2108 in Jammu and 3522 in Kashmir.

There was new confirmed case of mucormycosis (black fungus) reported today and thus the cumulative number of confirmed cases remained to be 29 in J&K.

A number of fresh covid-19 cases were confirmed at diagnostic labouratories of CD hospital here and GMC Anantnag respectively.

The CD cases include two males (29, 42) from Hawal, female (35) from Nowshera, male (23) and female (23) from Kanitar, male (48) from Hawal, male (22) from Sonbanjer Pul, male (85) from Noorbagh, female (37) from Palpora, two females (32, 62) from Chattabal, male (35) from Qamarwari, two females (11, 65) and male (35) from Kawdara, female (55) from Karfali Mohalla, female (27) from Wanganpora, female (65) from Hajan Bandipora, three males (46, 7, 4) from Khanyar, female (37) from Kawdara, female (24) from Kalashpora, male (76) from Buchpora, female (NA) from Budgam, male (62) and female (56) from Zakura, female (45) from Shalimar, female (27) from Umer Colony Lal Bazar, male (61) from Lal Bazar, male (29) from Pattan, female (37) from Habak, male (68) from Balgarden, female (35) from Baghi Mehtab, female (32) from Hawal, female (55) from Zoonimar, female (22) from Elahibagh, male (25) from Soura, male (60) from Hafiz Bagh and female (30) from Parraypora.

The GMC Anantnag cases include female (29) from Magalgund Ang, two males (50, 30) from Achabal, female (23) from Brakpora, female (34) from Delhi, male (27) from Padgampora, male (29) from Eidgah Srg, male (29) from 96 Bn Crpf Mattan, female (70) from Aader Khanabal Ang, female (46) from S K Colony Ang, male (40) and female (17) from Janglat Mandi Ang, male (42) from Damhal Khoshipora Ang, female (16) from S K Colony Ang, male (45) from Khiram Astanpora, male (32) from Kanderpora Guree and female (40) from Sopore.

Moreover, they said, 549 more COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours—179 from Jammu Division and 370 from Kashmir. 305684 patients have recovered so far, leaving active cases at 4996—2020 in Jammu and 2976 in Kashmir. (GNS)

India logs 46,148 new cases

United News Of India
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New Delhi: India on Monday recorded 46,148 new cases of COVID-19 during the past 24 hours pushing the country’s infection caseload to 3,02,79,331, while the death toll soared to 3,96,730 with 979 more fatalities.

According to the Union Health Ministry, the active cases declined by 13,409 to stand at 5,72,994. It is now 1.89 per cent of the total caseload.

The past 24 hours saw 58,578 people recovering from the deadly virus, taking the total recovery count to 2,93,09,607, which is 96.80 per cent of the case tally. The fatality rate stood at 1.31 per cent.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that a total of 40,63,71,279 samples have been tested so far for coronavirus. Of this, 15,70,515 were tested on Sunday.

Till now 32,36,63,297 people have been administered COVID-19 vaccines with 17,21,268 being inoculated against the virus in the past 24 hours. (UNI)

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