3 day seminar on Kashmir Shaiv Darshana begins
BJP led Govt determined to give Sanskrit
due place: Prof Gupta

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Prof Chaman Lal Gupta said the present Central Government is determined to give Sanskrit its due place in the country.

Prof Gupta who was the chief guest at the inaugural function of three day All India Seminar of Kashmir Shaiv-Darshana which started at Abhinav Theatre here today, said it is with this endeavor that the Central Government has decided to observe the year 1999-2000 as Sanskrit year.

He said the Sanskrit is the mother of all languages but unfortunately we have little knowledge about this subject.

Prof. Gupta said Prime Minister, Mr A B Vajpayee, Home Minister, Mr L K Advani and Human Resource Minister, Dr Murli Manohar Joshi have an earnest desire for the upliftment of this language so that it will touch its old glory.

The Union Minister said it is not the Government now but the Sanskrit scholars who should take the initiative in this regard and any proposal taken by them to Government for the upliftment of the language will be welcomed by it.

He while appreciating the Ranbir Kendriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth for organizing the seminar said this institute is among the five such institutes set up by the Central Government in the country.

But while two institutes out of them have become the deem universities but regretted that the Jammu institute is without the building till date.

He said the people outside the world are trying very lot to know more and more about this language but in India unfortunately we have not been able to do this.

He said India has a rich culture of past because of Sanskrit.But unfortunately wrong picture of country was presented by certain vested elements for their personnel ends.

But the situation has changed for a better, he said adding the nation is on the path of progress and it is emerging the world’s largest country in information technology.

Prof. Gupta said entire world is admirer of our capability and American people like to go to Indian doctors for treatment which indicates what kind of capability we have.

He expressed the hope that the day will not be far when India will emerge as world leader (Jagat Guru).

In his address BJP senior leader and MP Vaid Vaishno Dutt said the land of Jammu and Kashmir was highly respected in entire India because of Shaiv Darshan which flourished from here.

He said Kashmir was the Centre of Sanskrit since times immemorial. He however, regretted that a Sanskrit Vidyalaya which was opened in Jammu during Maharaja’s time is almost all closed now.

He sought the cooperation of all in the upliftment of the Sanskrit language and said that the setback received by this language in J&K is because it has no future here as Urdu is the official language.

He said the steps should be taken to make the Sanskrit a job oriented language.

He asked the acharayas and proacharayas to make a firm resolve to transform the society and start work for the upliftment of this language.

He warned that if we ignore this language and do not give the due place to it we will be deprived of our rich cultural traditions.

In his key note address renowned scholar Dr Balji Nath Pandit elaborated the four stages of the unconsciousness (Sushakti) according to Kashmir Shaiv Darshan.

The God is pure consciousness where as man is consciousness with limitation, he said, adding "Turifa" (consciousness) has also four stages also.

He while comparing it with Western philosophy said it (Western philosophy) is intellect based where as Kashmir Shiavism goes beyond intellect to feeling.

He said Bhakti purifies the heart and Yoga takes intellect to higher levels and "Shambhavi Yog Mudra" is the best means of Mukhti.

In his presidential address Prof V Kutumba Shastri, Director Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, New Delhi also stressed on preservance of this rich language which is the knowledge of power.

The welcome address was read by Dr Priyatam Chander Shastri, Principal of the Vidyapeeth and Dr Yash Paul Khajuria was the stage secretary.

The function started with the lighting of traditional lamp by Prof Chaman Lal Gupta and it was followed by Sarswati Vandna by Vidyapeeth students.

On the occasion Prof Gupta, Vaid Vaishno Dutt, Dr Balji Nath Pandit, Dr Dwarika Nath Shastri, Mr Deena Nath Yakash and Dr K K Shastri acting Principal of the Vidyapeeth were presented shawls.

Prof Gupta was also presented another shawl on behalf of the students of the Vidyapeeth later.

A Sanskrit Kawali a unique combination of modern and and ancient was presented by the students of the Vidyapeeth on the occasion. Mr Vijay Bhushan ex student from HP presented a Sanskrit song.

The afternoon session was presided over by Dr Ved Kumari Ghai former Head of the Post Graduate Department of Sanskrit University of Jammu. Dr Brijvallabh Dwivedi and Dr Rajnath of Dr Sampoornananda Sanskrit University, Varanasi and Prof Damodar Jha of Vishweshwarananda Vaidic Research Sansthan, Hoshiarpur and Dr Keshav Prapanna Sharma of Shri Ranbir Kendriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth Jammu were the speakers.

Concern over publication of duplicate calendar
Shiv Sena warns Party detractors

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: Jammu and Kashmir Shiv Sena (SS) today issued a stern warning to those Party members who it alleged are misleading the people about the Mata Vaishno Devi Chhari Yatra and collecting huge donations on its name from them.

Talking to media persons the Prant Pramokh of the JKSS Mr Devinder Shastri alleged that duplicate posters have been published by some members of the organization regarding the ensuing Chhari Yatra without his knowledge and prior permission.

He also alleged that some persons were collecting donations from the people and industrialists on the name of the Yatra to create indiscipline in the Party.

Mr Shastri said he has been empowered by the Shiv Sena Supreme Bala Sahib Thakre to organize the Yatra which will commence from parade ground on September 28 and the funds in this regard can only be collected by a five member committee constituted by him.

The Shiv Sena state chief appealed the people not to pay any donations to any body other than the members of this Committee. He also urged the law enforcing agencies to take action against such persons who are trying to malign the image of Shiv Sena by issuing the duplicate posters and collecting huge donations from the people.

"We have already approached Mr Bal Thakre and brought the matter in his notice said Mr Yash Gupta, general secretary JKSS in response to a question that why disciplinary action was not initiated against such deflators.

He said the disciplinary action against such people will be taken by the Party supremo Mr Bal Thakeray himself.

Terming it a big conspiracy he said some vested interests are trying to defame and sabotage the Party. "The masses should remain conscious against such persons and approach police or the Shiv Sena Office in the City for legal action against them."

He also alleged that duplicate receipt books have been printed by these persons to collect the funds and said that the receipt books with the portrait of Goddess Durga and Shiv Sena Emblem Tiger are the only valid.

He warned such "self-styled" people of serious consequences who are trying to bring a bad name to Shiv Sena and said the disciplinary action against them will be initiated after the conclusion of the yatra.

Foundation of commercial complex laid

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: The Acting Chief Minister and the Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Shah laid the foundation stone of Rs 80 lakh Municipal complex near Dogra Hall in Jammu city today.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Shah eulogised the Municipality for its concerted efforts to initiate a number of steps to increase revenue and improve its functioning. Reminding the Municipal staff of their bounden duies towards the inhabitants of the city Mr Shah said that the targets should only be achieved through mutual cooperation of the people while adhering strictly to the rules and regulations set up for the purpose. He said that all the civilised societies have better Municipal administration.

Mr Shah said that the civic institutions should not merely depend on the Government for their financial requirements but they should enhance their own revenue resources by setting up different commercial complexes at various places. He said that the Municipalities are the faces of a town or a city. The degree of civilisation and aesthetics is reflected though the functioning of these institutions. Referring to the need of a better sewerage disposal system, Mr Shah said that modern scientific techniques should be adopted in this direction. He said that although the institution was functioning satisfactorily yet there is also a vast scope of further improvement.

Vaid Vishno Dutt emphasised the need of strengthening the institution and bringing it at the level of municipal corporation. He also underlined an imperative need of improving the sewerage disposal system and streamlining the building construction process.

The Administration of the Municipality gave a detailed resume of the projects and on-going development works in the town.

The function among others was also attended by the District Development Commissioner, Jammu, representatives of various welfare organisations and prominent citizens.

Sagar inaugurates cause-way over Aik Nallah

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: The Minister for Works, Mr Ali Mohammad Sagar inaugurated 79.15 Mtr span vented cause-way over Aik nallah at Kheri in Bishnah tehsil today. Constructed at a cost of Rs 60 lakhs by JKPCC under NABARD’s financial assistance this cause-way will benefit the population of more than 40,000 residing in the adjoining villages like Bishnah, Banachak, Phatwal, Ratnal, Tral Jhang, Rehal, Shahpur, Chimnachak, Nandpur, Kheri Saidgarh etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sagar said the Government was determined to link all the far-flung and remote areas of the State with the National Highway under the Road Connectivity Scheme. He said that despite several challenges, the Government has been going ahead with the development programmes. He said that over decade long Pak sponsored militancy had badly damaged infrastructure and adversely affected the development process. However, the present Government headed by Dr Farooq Abdullah has been able to bring the process back on rails. Because of the concerted efforts of the present Government all parts of the State are witnessing developmental activities.

Criticising the opposition parties, Mr Sagar said that they were spreading canards that the State was facing financial crunch but they ignore the fact that despite several constraints development activities were going on every where. Similarly he said certain opposition parties were creating misunderstanding among the people over the State Autonomy Report. The Autonomy, he said, was aimed at further cementing relations with the Centre. Likewise the objective of the Regional Autonomy was to provide equal opportunities of development to the people living in different regions of the State.

He said that the State has recorded progress in different sectors of economy during the last four years. Special programmes and schemes, he said, have been launched for the betterment of people living in backward and far flung areas.

Explaining the aims of the Rehbar-e-Taleem scheme, Mr Sagar said that the closed schools were made functional again. Under the scheme teachers were appointed from the locals. Besides, village level committees were formed to ensure that the schools function normally and the attendence of teachers is ensured. Similarly, he said, medicare facilities in remote areas were being strengthened.

Referring to the on-going development schemes in Bishnah tehsil the Minister said works worth Rs 2.84 crore were under execution in the area.

On return Mr Sagar inspected the work on Peer Baba-Chatha road, Chatha bridge, Baloal Nallah, Bandhuwalla tube well, Chatha bridge, etc. He asked that the engineers to speed up the construction work.

During the tour, the Minister was accompanied by the senior engineers of various disciplines and several legislators.

Drinking water, electricity position reviewed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: The Minister of State for Works and Power, Mr Qamar Ali Akhoon took stock of the supply position of drinking water and electricity at Bagh-e-Bahu park at a meeting of the concerned engineers here today.

Mr Akhoon impressed upon them to ensure uninterrupted water and electricity supply at the Bagh-e-Bahu which is only unique attraction for Jammu where thousands of visitors visit especially during Navratras.

The Minister also directed the officers of the Floriculture Department to pay special attention for its maintenance and beautification. He also directed the management of the Bagh-e-Bahu to keep its lake clean and transparent to add to its beauty.

Mr Akhoon also directed the Electricity and PHE departments to depute their officials for any kind of assistance to the management of Bagh-e-Bahu whenever needed. He further asked that one of the bays should remain as a standby for supply of water for irrigation purposes so that no water problem is faced in the ensuing months.

The Chief Engineer, Electricity and Superintending Engineer, PHE assured that all possible efforts would be made to keep the supply of both electricity and water supply available to the Bagh-e-Bahu.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Engineer, Electricity, Mr HS Raina, Chief Engineer, System Operation, Mr KC Gupta, Chief Engineer, Ravi Tawi Irrigation, Superintending Engineer, PHE, Mr IC Jandial and senior officers of the Floriculture Department.

Later, the Minister also visited the Bagh-e-Bahu.

Labour Deptt recovers over Rs 4 lakh

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: Over Rs 4.25 lakh were recovered under various labour laws by the Labour Department in Jammu division during the last financial year. This was stated at a meeting of officers of Labour Department, Jammu division held here today. The Minister for Labour and Employment, Mr BA Kitchloo presided.

During the meeting the Dy Labour Commissioner, Jammu, Mr IA Zargar apprised the Minister that under Women Compensation Act, the department received 883 cases at the divisional level of which 226 cases were settled and a compensation of over Rs 1.70 crore has been disbursed to the claimants during the year. Under payment of Wages Act 850 cases came up for disposal of which 170 cases were decided and an amount of Rs 14.70 lakhs was disbursed as delayed wages.

Similarly under Industrial Dispute Act, the department received 15 cases against which 9 cases stand settled while 3 cases were sent to the Government for settlement. Under Shops and Establishments Act 58206 shops and establishments are registered with the department in the Jammu division in which 20860 employees have been working. During inspection 955 defaulters were booked under Panal Provisions Act and a revenue of Rs 4.12 lakh was realised.

While interacting with the officers, the Minister stressed the need for implementation of labour laws in letter and in spirit so that the benefits under these Acts must reach to the deserving. He exhorted upon the Officers for speedy disposal of the cases pending under various Acts. The Minister instructed the Dy Labour Commissioner to submit a proposal for enhancing the fee for shops and other business establishments for appropriate action.

Assistant Labour Commissioners from all the districts of Jammu division, Assistant Commissioner, Provident Fund and Inspector Factories attended the meeting.

Ist batch of police commandos trained by Army

Excelsior Correspondent

POONCH, Sept 18: In the ongoing quest for excellence in achieving a common aim, the Army and police cooperation ws exhibited when the Army trained 33 J&K Police personnel by imparting them Commando training under the overall supervision of Poonch Brigade.

The training of selected police personnel was carried out under the overall command of Lt Col Sandeep Sharma, CO of Dogra Battalion and instructors from August 17, 2000 to September 15, 2000.

During the course of training, the police personnel were trained to operate independently in counter insurgency operations. The 30-day training schedule included handling and firing of various weapons, laying of ambushes, carrying out raids on terrorists hideouts, endurance and karate training for improving the physical fitness and responsiveness.

Brig WJB Sturgeon, Commander Poonch Brigade alongwith Mr Pankaj Saxena, SP Poonch and police officers were present on the occasion of the prize distribution.

In his closing address to the police persons the Commander emphasised on enhancing police-military interaction by organising more such activities and to conduct joint operations to achieve success against the ongoing proxy war.

Various personnel, who performed in an outstanding manner were given prizes and commended by the Commander Poonch Brigade and SP Poonch on the occasion. The Commander lauded the police personnel for the ongoing joint operations in Saujian where 12 terrorists have been gunned down so far.

Youngs India holds Girl Child Week

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: Youngs India, in coordination with UNICEF and Field Publicity Information Department, J&K Government organised Girl Child Week and Meena Day at Girls High School/ Higher Secondary School (Migrants), Bakshi Nagar, Jammu.

Mrs Shakuntala Samrat Joint Director Education, was the chief guest and Daleep Singh, Commissioner Relief (Migrant) was guest of honour and presided over the function.

Mrs Shakuntala in her speech said that girl child education/problems faced by girl child is on the top priority of the Government of India.

Iron deficiency anemia, malnutrition is very common in girls, she said adding that Neonatal and infant mortality rates are higher in females. For a good building, we should also have a good foundation.

Daleep Singh, Relief Commissioner in his speech highlighted the problems being faced by girl children at village level and urban level. He stressed the need for education and orientation of parents of the girl child about the girl child week and Meena Day. He also suggested UNICEF the upgradation of Health and Nutrition programmes of children, mainly for girl child.

Police organises public awareness meet

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 18: Mr Shamsher Bhagat, Chowki Officer, Police Chowki Chowk Chabutra, Jammu, in collaboration with various associations and committees and public of the area organised ‘Public Awareness and Cooperation Meet’ today in the premises of Chowki in the evening.

According to press release the meeting was presided over by Mr Ashok Sharma, SDPO City (North) and Mr Swaran Singh Jangi, SHO Pacca Danga Police Station was also present in the meeting. In the meeting before large gathering, Mr Ashok Sharma highlighted the problems faced by the police and asked the people of the city to be vigilant against the nefarious designs of the enemy and help the police in the maintenance of law and order. He impressed upon the public, particularly the children to be aware of unidentified objects and help the authorities in discouraging encroachments in the lanes and the bazars. Mr Jangi requested the public to cooperate with the police in removing the unwanted parkings of the vehicles in the area from Jain Bazar to Link Road so that untoward incidents could be avoided in future.

It was decided that such meetings would continue to be organised in future.

Among prominent who spoke on the occasion included Mr Yash Pal Kapoor, president Shop Keepers, Jain Bazar, Mr Pankaj Kohli, president Moti Bazar Association, Mr Sat Pal Sharma, Mr Shiv Kumar Mengi of Mubarakh Mandi, Mr Ashok Sahni, Mr Romesh Sharma, Mr Rajiv Gupta, Mr Hardeep Singh, Mr Raj Kumar and other people from all walks of life.

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