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peace in JK Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Mother Teresa Memorial Society chairperson Ms Mehbooba Shadab has said that Society is going to establish an old age home.....more Jail
Bharo Andolan suspended Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: State president of Janata Dal (Secular) Mr Dhan Raj Bargotra and office bearers of Kissan Cell today held a meeting with......more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Panun Kashmir Movement (PKM) held a meeting under the presidentship of Mr Ashwani Chrungoo.......more Bapu
stresses need Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Sant Shri Aasa Ramji Bapu has said that there was strong need to develop moral and spiritual education among the children and......more Process to
set up 43 Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: The process set in motion to establish 43 new courts, out of these 41 Munsiff and two Sub-Judge........more |
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Mirza.Rashid
stresses Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Apr 28: Mirza Abdul Rashid, MP,has stressed upon the Union Government for initiating immediate remedial measures ........more Bar Association to write CJI regarding Fast Track Courts Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, April 28: Accusing Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court of taking unilateral decision regarding setting up of Fast Track Courts..........more Centre
urged to hold talks with other groups Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has challenged the locus-standi of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC).........more Two
assistant registrars Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has issued promotion orders for various cadres today.All these promotion orders will be on adhoc basis...........more |
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Mother Teresa Society for restoration of peace in JK Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Mother Teresa Memorial Society chairperson Ms Mehbooba Shadab has said that Society is going to establish an old age home, orphan centre, hospital and a school for helpless children of socially backward sections of the state. Addressing a press conference here today, Ms Mehbooba said that the Society has also chalked out a programme to rehabilitate the militancy victims such as orphans, widows and such mothers who have lost their earning hands (sons) and now leading a miserable life. She pointed out that Society is concerned about the upliftment and speedy development of the down trodden, neglected and physically handi-capped people of the state. The action plan has been chalked out by the this NGO for the current year. The area for the establishment of such centres would be identified soon and after Srinagar, it has been felt to set up such centres in Jammu too. The donations are being collected and funds raised by the members of the society for this noble cause. She however, denied having received any financial assistance from the Central Government. Ms Mehbooba, however, pointed out that restoration of peace was imperative for any such development. Thousands of youth and others have lost life in the ongoing militancy. Every group whether it is Hurriyat, State Government, Centre or any other group should come out for peace talks to amicably settle the issue. Our Society appeals for restoration of peace as early as possible in this sub-continent. |
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Jail
Bharo Andolan suspended Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: State president of Janata Dal (Secular) Mr Dhan Raj Bargotra and office bearers of Kissan Cell today held a meeting with Divisional Commissioner, Jammu Mr Anil Goswami and informed him of the situation arisen because of failure of 100 percent crops due to drought situation. As per a release, Mr Bargotra demanded immediate measures to save the farmers and animals from starvation and informed Divisional Commissioner of demands of the farming community like payment of 100 percent compensation of damaged rabi main crops, opening of shops for distribution of free ration for the rural people and farmers and fodder for the animal in every village with some cash assistance to meet the other expenses like education of the children and medical expenses etc, free seed and fertilizer for sowing next crop in the Kandi belt, starting of food for work programme in every drought affected village and proper arrangement of drinking water. The Divisional Commissioner said that Government has completed entry of Kharaba in Gardwari which was almost about 100 percent in Kandi belt in Jammu division and assessed the requirement of free fodder for cattle, food for work programme, drinking water and irrigation hand pump etc. He said that Central team has already reached here to study the drought position and added that Divisional Administration Jammu has demanded package of Rs 1300 crore for the drought hit farmers of the Jammu division. The Divisional Commissioner disclosed that the Central team will return to Delhi within two days after visiting Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kathua and Udhampur etc. After the meeting with Divisional Commissioner, Janata Dal decided to suspend Jail Bharo Andolan and urged the Central Government to release Rs 1300 crore for immediate distribution to the farmers who are on verge of starvation. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Panun Kashmir Movement (PKM) held a meeting under the presidentship of Mr Ashwani Chrungoo discussed Central Government’s initiative to hold parleys with representative groups of of the J&K State. As per a release the issue of ‘dialogue’ was discussed in detail and the meeting held the view that Kashmiri Pandits have always supported the initiatives for bringing peace in Kashmir, but silencing of gun has no bearing now on the resettlement of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. The PKM held further that the resettlement of KPs in Kashmir is a recognized political issue now which needs to be addressed in an appropriate political context. It said the issue of resolution of Kashmir tangle and resettlement of community in Kashmir are inseparable issues. The Kashmiri Pandits are a natural party to any kind of process for resolution of tangle. The fundamental core issue of the dialogue with the Kashmiri Pandits has to be the ethnic cleansing and genocide of the community, said the PKM adding that in a scenario in which accredited institutions like NHRC, Amnesty International, UNHRC, High Courts in India, US Refugee Committee, Asia Watch and UNHCR have made pronouncements, reports and passed orders regarding ethnic cleansing and genocide of Pandits in Kashmir, the Government of India cannot turn a blind eye to these realities. The release stated that the KPs have enough of experience of living in Muslim dominated Valley from medieval times till date. The PKM said our present in linked with past and any negotiation on Kashmir is linked with out future. We cannot mortgage the future of our progeny to the whims and caprice of fundamentalism and hegemonistic attitude of Muslim majority community of Kashmir. Nor can the Pandits support the so-called peace initiative of Government of India without a purpose. We cannot allow ourselves to become sacrificial lambs in the name of so-called secularism. The PKM said the dialogue has to be based on a specific agenda which paves the way for reversal of the causes of ethnic cleansing, extermination and genocide and also for establishment of rightful claim of Pandits on Kashmir. |
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Bapu stresses need to give spiritual education to children Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Sant Shri Aasa Ramji Bapu has said that there was strong need to develop moral and spiritual education among the children and young generation of the country for their mental development and character building. Such education will also make them good and civilised citizens, courageous, strong, dedicated, committed and true nationlists. Delivering his highly educative lecture especially for the students and young generation at the Science College ground here today, the great Saint pointed out that the violence shown in the movies and TV serials lays deep impact on the mind of the children and keep them away from the real life. It does not make them strong and brave. They should be left to face the challenges of the real life and experience the odds and evils themselves. It is estimated that todays’ figures crossed one lakh mark, while the students were about forty thousand in number. Giving valuables tips to the students Bapuji disclosed that "Gum Gum Gum Ganpati Ye Namaha" is one of the powerful Mantras for obtaining good percentage in examination and making the memory more sharp. He advised the students to recite this mantra before putting your pen on the paper in the exam and experience the miracles and its impact. Emphasising on the Pranayams the great saint said that by doing thirty Pranayams, ten in the morning, noon and the evening one can get rid of the diseases. The learned saint of Adhiyatmic Vidhya demonstrated to the children such devices/ tips for their successful career as could be expected from rare Braham Giani’s. The Saint also explained the importance of Shiva-Netra (Wisdom) and incited certain examples to elaborate this concept. He narrated the courageous incidents in the life of Shivaji and exceptional wisdom of Dr Radha Krishan as a child who later became the President of India. Shri Bapu pointed out that Kalyug is boon for Mukti, Bhagti and the eternal peace. That which could not be attained by Rishi Munis after hundred years of Tapasaya, can be attained in hundred days. The great Guru said that there were seven Centres within the human body. The man becomes more great and wiser as these centres develop gradually. He referred to the blind kindness of parents towards their children and maintained that they must avoid it because such acts are the real obstacles in the overall development of their wards. The parents should let their wards learn the real facts of life and face the challenges so that his self-confidence and morale is strengthened. Under the influence of ‘Moh’ (affection) the parents do whatever they can and even cross all the limits for the comforts of their children. They should also realise the long term impact of their acts on the life and the future of the children. The great God is much kind towards their children (human being) but he is never indulges in such type of blind affection. Everything is useful and good up to some limit, he maintained. The great saint also spoke on the teachings of Bhagwad Geeta and termed it as one of the greatest Granthas/ holy books of the world. It contains the solution to every problem if one reads it with full concentration. The teaching of this great holy book are not for Hindus only but for all the children of the Great God, whether they are Hindu, Muslims, Sikh, Christian or belong to any other religion. Humanity is the the great religion. He further maintained that Sanatan Dharma is very great as it teaches us to love all and respect all the religions. A human being should keep control on his all the senses. It develops competence and hidden power in your voice and thoughts. It improves self confidence and gives strength to your resolves. Automatically, it gives rise to the wonders through you. If your heart is clear, mind is clear, it will definitely keeps your resolve in high esteem and give strength to your resolution. Referring to the Bhagwad Satsang he said this is a bridge which paves a way for a Bhagti. Through Bhagti one attains eternal peace which never fades away. Through this eternal peace, an individual can find God which is in the innerself of every human being but due to ignorance and attachment with the worldly things and luxuries one can not experience this inwardly presence and elopes in darkness. |
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Process to set up 43 new courts will go on Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: The process set in motion to establish 43 new courts, out of these 41 Munsiff and two Sub-Judge courts, will go on in Jammu and Kashmir for providing speedy justice to the people. Giving details, Registrar General of J&K High Court, Mr Imtiaz Hussain told media persons here this evening that these courts will have regular judges to dispense speedy and cheap justice to the litigants. The Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah has already agreed for setting up such courts in farflung areas for the benefit of the general public.Dr Abdullah, in fact, had appreciated the proposal of Chief Justice of J&K High Court, Justice Dr B P Saraf. The proposal has been cleared by the State Finance Department and is awaiting Cabinet approval only, it was disclosed. Clarifying a point, he said that regular judicial officers shall man these courts instead of employing retired judges. The District Judges would be visiting different parts under their jurisdiction and attend to cases then and there for the convenience of the people. Answering a question, it was disclosed that there are 50 district and Session judges in the J&K State, some of whom will be visiting and attending some of the cases. It was disclosed that the Bar Association of Srinagar, at its meeting held today, decided to resume normal work and render assistance to the courts in dispensation of justice. It was further divulged that this decision of the Association has been taken in view of the Division Bench of the High Court is now seized of the matter concerning the contempt proceedings initiated against Mr N A Ronga. Explaining the main features of this new concept of Fast Track Courts, applied in modified form in J&K State, it was stated that the proposal is that at every place, where there is a court of Munsiff or Sub-judge available, additional court room and chamber may be constructed so the District Judge or Additional District Judge or Sub-Judge from the adjoining area will hold sittings to hear cases and decide matters to ensure quick and cheap justice to the common man. In certain areas new courts will be set up. Under this scheme, the judges will be going to various place and expedite the disposal of cases as the litigants and witness shall be having judges come to them. The Registrar General stated that all these courts will be declared as Fast Track courts with powers vested to hear the cases. Replying to a question, the Registrar General said that there would be option for the two litigant parties to request the court for holding trial at the district or other respective original court. Answering question, it was stated that out of proposed 41 Munsiff courts, 18 will be in Kashmir Valley, 19 in Jammu region, three in Leh (Ladakh) and one in Kargil. And one Sub-Judge courts will be established in Kashmir and Jammu each. The Registrar General, while referring to 10-day long agitation by Jammu Bar Association , said no proper notice of this strike has been given till date. He also drew attention to the Apex court’s Division Bench judgement about the strikes and functioning of the courts. The Registrar General stated that the Chief Justice of High Court, Dr B P Saraf is concerned about the problems being faced by the litigant public due to the lawyers’ strike affecting functioning of courts. It was also disclosed that due to effective steps taken, 50 per cent pending cases have been cleared in the High Court during the last one year. The Sub-ordinate courts too have started vigorously for speedy settlement of pending cases, he said adding steps like provision of better infrastructure, computerisation and grouping of cases has yielded results. The Chief Justice has been holding meetings with the presiding officers and monitoring the speedy disposal of cases, the Registrar General stated. Senior functionaries of the High Court were also present at the press conference. |
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Mirza.Rashid stresses for
Central assistance Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Apr 28: Mirza Abdul Rashid, MP,has stressed upon the Union Government for initiating immediate remedial measures for meeting the drought conditions in J&K State where Rabi crop and horticulture has experienced extensive damage. Speaking in Rajya Sabha Mr.Rashid said that last four years have witnessed unprecedented drought in the State. He said that entire farming community and fruit growers have suffered huge losses during the period. He said even the water discharge in Jehlam has gone down and Wular lake has shrunk. He said ‘We can see the children playing Cricket on dried Jehlum’. The MP demanded constitution of a high level committee of surveyors, parliamentarians, agriculture scientists etc. for looking into the problem being faced by the J&K State with immediate effect. |
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Bar Association to write CJI regarding Fast Track Courts Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, April 28: Accusing Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court of taking unilateral decision regarding setting up of Fast Track Courts, Bar Association Jammu is seriously considering to write Chief Justice India (CJI) regarding, what it called alleged, attempt to disturb whole judicial system of the State. Addressing a press conference, president of the Bar Association Jammu, Mr D S Saini said that the Bar and the Bench were the two sides of the same coin and close coordination between two was paramount for the smooth working and effective administration of justice. "Unfortunately the Chief Justice has taken up a decision in haste without taking into confidence the lawyers community and by mis-interpreting and deviating from the original policy of ‘Fast Track Courts Scheme’ proposed by the Central Government", he regretted. Quoting some clauses of the original scheme formulated by the Central Government, Mr Saini said that it was clear mentioned in the scheme that instead of employing new judges, retired Session Judges and additional Session Judges be appointed as adhoc judges specifically for disposing off the pending sessions cases only. He, however, said that Chief Justice of J&K High Court on its own has decided to send existing District and Session Judges from district headquarters to some tehsil headquarters for few days in a month. He said that it was quite contrary to the Central scheme at Fast Track Courts. He made it clear that Bar Association has been seriously considering to represent its case before Chief Justice of India and Union Law Minister. Taking a leaf from some clauses of the J&K Constitution, Bar Association president said that the constitution has not empowered Chief Justice to open such court in the State. "The term ‘High-Court’ means not the Chief Justice only but the Chief Justice along with two or more judges as defined under Section 93 of the J&K Constitution", he said, adding "as such the step taken by Chief Justice is contrary to the requirement of law also. There is no provision in the Constitution which empowers the Chief Justice to open such courts" Mr Saini aired apprehension that instead of providing speedy justice it will further delay the justice. He was of the view that sending of sitting District and Session Judges to tehsil level will not only delay the justice but it will also disturb the entire justice administration system. "Session Judges have provincial jurisdiction with regard to offenses under Special Act like Emergency Agent Ordinance Act. If the District Judge from District Head Quarter will go to tehsil Headquarters work of the regular courts at District Head Quarter will suffer and litigants whose cases are pending in regular District and Session Courts at district headquarters will suffer", he said and further added that taking of under trial from Central Jail/District Jails to tehsil level would not be safe in view of the security scenario beside causing financial burden and creating law and order problem for the police agency. Replying to a question regarding support of the Samba and Hiranagar Bar Associations to the Fast Tract Courts scheme, Mr Saini said that they were mis-lead. "We are in constant touch with members of Samba and Hiranagar bar associations", he said. "We want to make it manifestly clear that Bar Association Jammu is not opposed to any demand for creation of new permanent courts at any places neither we are against creating of permanent District Courts at Samba or any other place in Jammu province", Mr Saini said, adding, "Bar is opposing the unilateral decision of Chief Justice to make the existing additional District and Session Judges mobile which would disturb the working of the entire Judicial system causing great inconvenience to the litigant public ". He further stated that Bar Association of Kathua and Poonch were also on strike while the Bar Association Jammu has been contacting all the Bar Associations for broader interaction and unity among lawyers. Bar president asserted that they would intensify their agitation. Senior advocate Mr Ravinder Sharma, Mr H C Jalmaria and office bearers of the Bar Association were present in the press conference. |
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Centre urged to hold talks
with other groups Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has challenged the locus-standi of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) in calling itself the sole representative of people of Kashmir Valley. Talking to mediapersons at a joint press conference here today, the State BJP chief Mr Daya Krishan Kotwal and general secretary Dr Nirmal Singh said it seems instead of working for restoration of peace and normalcy in the trouble -torn state the Hurriyat leadership was speaking the language of Pakistan and its Inter Service Intelligence (ISI). How Hurriyat can call itself the real representatives of the people of the state when it has never fought the elections, said Mr Kotwal, adding they (Hurriyat leaders) are the agents of Pakistan and ISI and hence will not be allowed to play with the sentiments of the people of the state. Blaming the Hurriyat for bringing the gun culture to state, he said it is they who aided and abetted the militancy. Mr Kotwal said by rejecting the peace talks initiated by Indian emissary KC Pant, the Hurriyat has lost a good opportunity provided by Centre after Lahore talks for restoration of peace and normalcy in the state. He said decision to hold talks was an initiative for peace but now it seems that Hurriyat is not interested in peace and wants to continue the bloodshed. If Hurriyat does not want to participate in talks let them not but the Centre should stick to its decision and hold dialogue with other groups, he said, adding the Hurriyat demand to visit Pak should also outrightly be rejected by Centre now. Mr Kotwal said the cease fire on border is OK but not inside the state and the Government should review the decision. Lashing out at Hurriyat leadership Dr Nirmal Singh said APHC which is the combination of 23 groups wants to thrust its leadership through the barrel of gun which is not acceptable to the people of the Kashmir. What right the conglomerate has to reject the talks when 95 per cent of people in Kashmir Valley want peace, he said, adding the foreign militants involved in terrorism in Kashmir should not be invited for dialogue. Ridiculing at Hurriyat’s stand he said the rejection of talks and their demand to visit Pakistan is a suicidal step for its leadership. He also demanded that in the peace talks the sentiments of the people of Jammu and Ladakh region be taken into consideration, besides the problems of four lakh displaced Hindus from Kashmir be solved. Dr Singh also blamed the State Government for trying to make demographic change in Jammu region. He rejected the recent census and demanded that unbiased census be conducted in the state through Central agencies. He said the census conducted by the State Government is not based on facts as through it the growth rate in the militancy infested Kupwara district has been shown 38.59 while in Kathua district which has been all along normal was shown at 20.4 per cent. He said this way the Government wants to scuttle the rights of nationalists in the state. Rejecting the census report Dr Singh said it will have serious repercussions and state Unit of the Party will meet the Union Home Minister, Mr L K Advani and apprise him of the facts. Criticising the State Government for not looking into the problems of members of Village Defence Committees (VDCs), Mr Kotwal demanded that they be provided with automatic weapons. He said the VDCs have done a commendable job in fighting the militancy in the state and Government should take all steps in protecting their interests by fulfilling their demands. He in an appeal to Union Home Minister urged him to pay more attention for the welfare of VDCs. |
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Two assistant registrars promoted by High Court Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has issued promotion orders for various cadres today.All these promotion orders will be on adhoc basis. According to the High Court order the promotions were made in relaxation of rules pending the final promotions. Besides promoting two assistant registrars as deputy registrars, the Court has also placed three private secretaries in selection grade and placed two assistant registrars in higher grade. Mr R C Khajuria, Assistant Registrar (Administration) and Abdul Gani Assistant Registrar have been posted as Deputy Registrars in the pay scale of Rs 10000-15,200. Messrs. R L Kohli, P L Nagri, Fida Hussain and Din Mohammed Subnia, Private secretaries have been placed in the selection grade of Rs 9000-14,100 while Abdul Qayoom, S S Jamwal, Mushtaq Ahmed and Gh Ahmed Mir have been also placed in the selection scale of Rs 9000-14,100. Besides Messrs Nasib Singh and Rattan Singh who are working in the lower grade of Assistant registrars have been promoted in the higher grade of Rs 8000-12,950. Mohd Latif Khan, Tariq Ahmed Buchh, Nazir Ahmed Bhat and Ghulam Ahmed Bhat have been promoted to the post of Assistant registrars in the pay scale of Rs 7500-12,000. Ghulam Hussain Yatoo and Amanullah Malik section officers have been promoted to the post of protocol officers in the pay scale of Rs 7500-12,000 while Hafiz-ud-Din, Himmat Singh, Nazir Ahmed Mir and Nissar Ahmed Khan have been promoted as section officers in the pay scale of Rs 6500-10,500. Vinod Kumar Bali, Janam Raj, Sushil Sharma and Shabir Ahmed all senior assistants have been promoted as head assistants in the pay scale of Rs 5000 -10,500 and Ashok Kumar, Kuldeep Singh, Sham Lal and Ajmer Singh Dalmotra junior assistants have been promoted as senior assistants in the pay scale of Rs 4000-6000. Meanwhile, the Executive Committee of Jammu Kashmir High Court Staff Welfare Association in a meeting here today has thanked the Chief Justice for issuing the promotion orders of the officers and staff of the High Court. The meeting which was presided over by Mr Beli Ram vice president of the Association also welcomed the decision of constituting Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC). Hailing the Chief Justice the Association leaders said the steps initiated by him have changed the present set up in the High Court. |
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SFC sets target of advancing loans of Rs 25 crore Excelsior Correpsondent Jammu, Apr 28: The Jammu and Kashmir State Financial Corporation has set a target of advancing loans of Rs.25 crores during the current financial year. This was stated today at the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Corporation held under the Chairmanship of Finance Minster, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather, who is the Chairman of the Corporation. The Board of Directors while being apprised of current year’s targets of sanctions, disbursements and recoveries was also informed of the achievements registered by the corporation during the last financial year. The Board was informed that loans to the tune of Rs.19.07 crores were advanced by the Corporation during the year 2000-01 benefitted 236 persons. Of the total amount industries were advanced Rs.11.47 crores and the rest of amount was disbursed to the transport, hotel and other sectors. Regarding the recoveries the Board was informed that a recovery target of Rs.26 crores has been fixed for the current financial year. This is against the recoveries of Rs.21.45 crores effected in 2000-01. The Finance Minister while stressing for simplyfing the procedures for advancements also impressed for speeding up the recovery of arrears by the Corporation. He said recovery aspect has to receive the urgent and greater attention by the functionaries as it is very essential for maintaining the viability of the Corporation. Targets fixed for the current year should be communicated to the concerned in right earnest and achievements thereof should be reviewed constantly. Bottlenecks, if any, he said should be removed immediately. The Finance Minster stressed for advancing more loans to the employment generating units as this would help in eradicating poverty and unemployment in the State. Because of limitations in Government jobs self employment programme has to be popularised. The people, especially the youth have to be fully made aware of the schemes and the incentives thereunder so that they can avail the benefits. The Managing Director of the Corporation, Mr. Vinod Gupta, giving a resume of the financial health of the Corporation said that as a result of improvements in recoveries and reducing the expenditures the Corporation’s losses have shown a downward trend and every endeavour will be made to maintain this trend. |
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Mobile Phone facility in Jammu, Srinagar soon: CGM Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Chief General Manager, BSNL J&K Circle Mr P C Chhabra said that Mobile phone facility will be provided in Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur cities of the soon. Speaking in the meeting of Telecom Advisory Committee members here today, the CGM disclosed that BSNL intends to provide mobile phones to the tune of 5000, 6000 and 1000 lines in the first phase at Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur, respectively.Internent facility will be provided with BSNL equipment in Srinagar, Rajouri, Leh and Udhampur and the capacity in Jammu shall be augmented. The CGM further pointed out that the ratio of telephones per 1000 population is wooping 22.2 as against the National average of 3.5 lines. However, this figure is not going to deter the BSNL to take ambitious strides to provide telecom facility in every nook and corner of this militancy infested state, he maintained. The committee was informed that the Department has plans to cover all the uncovered villages for provision of VPTs during the current year by using WLL and Satellite communication media. The faulty VPTs which are unserviceable shall also be replaced by using this technology. Total equipped capacity of the Circle has been enhanced to the tune of 2,59,656 lines. Similarly, DELs at Srinagar, Jammu, Udhampur, Rajouri and Leh were added by 14132 , 22494, 4017, 1755 and 1114 lines respectively thereby bringing total DELs (Direct Exchange Lines) for entire J&K to 1,73,533. Not only this, 9000 lines were added to Trunk Automatic Exchanges in the Circle, the CGM added. Prof Chaman Lal Gupta, Union MOS Civil Aviation, Mr A M Naik (MP), Ashok Khajuria (MLA), former MOS Home Mohd Maqbool Dar, former Central Minister and MP Saifuddin Soz and Ex-MLC D K Kotwal were also present in the meeting. Several Committee members were critical in certain areas like excess billing, scant response on special services 197,198 etc. It was also pointed out that due to paucity of junction lines it was not possible for public to access many stations on local dial within 200 kms range. Stress was laid by the members for improving the telecom efficiency in urban as well as rural areas and also improvement in the existing Telecom infrastructure in rural areas. |
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Helpline Society holds symposium at MIER Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: J&K Helpline Society, Jammu in collaboration with "Worldwide Fund for Nature, India" today organised inter-collegiate symposium on "Air and Water Pollution"at Model Institute of Education and Research (MIER) here today. The function was presided over by Prof Y R Malhotra, MLC and Ex Vice Chancellor, Jammu University and Mr P P Sharma, chairman J&K Pollution Control Board was the chief guest. The function was organised by Mrs Santosh Mangotra, president of the Society. The panel of judges including Dr Shayama Kapoor, Ex- Professor of Botany Women College, Parade Jammu, Dr V S Manhas of Jammu University, and Mrs Veena Handa, Principal Tiny Tots Group of Higher secondary schools, Jammu. The programme started with the lighting of traditional lamp. Dr Arun K Gupta , Director MIER highly praised the role of Society and particularly Mr P P Sharma for their valuable services rendered to the country in reducing the pollution by effective measures and creating awareness among the people to keep environment clean and green. Mrs Santosh Mangotra highlighted the role of Society in improving the conditions of depressed members of the country. She urged the young students to come forward and help the society in its pious mission to get training in self defence and physical fitness. Mr Mohit Sahni of Commerce College bagged the first prize while Miss Ritambara Ghai and Miss Minakshi Raina both students of MIER got the second and third prize respectively. Miss Manisha Koul was awarded the consolation prize. |
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JKNF terms APHC a ‘crowd’ of 23 fundamentalists outfits Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 28: Jammu and Kashmir Nationalist Front (JKNF) has taken strong exception of the decision of the All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC) not to hold dialogue with Union Government and termed APHC as ‘crowd’ of 23 fundamentalist, theoratic outfits which are putty clay in the hands of Pakistan. In a press release issued here today, JKNF strongly criticised Hurriyat Conference for dubbing people of Jammu, Ladakh and nationalist Kashmiris as ‘crowd’. JKNF made it clear that APHC was no way represent the will of the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and it only represent some fundamentalist elements who have been propagating the ideology of terrorism, parochialism, intolerance and Nizam-e-Mustafa. JKNF warned the Hurriyat against giving such statement in future. "The people of State have seen through their game and are convinced that this Pakistani-sponsored conglomerate has already damaged the state polity and society and disturbed the social equilibrium wit the Kashmiri Hindus languishing in the refugee camps out of the Valley", he release reads as. JKNF reiterated that segregation of Jammu and Ladakh from Kashmir and establishment of a separate dispensation for the three lakh internally displaced Kashmiri Hindus were the only and viable solution of the Kashmir problem. "Secessionists leaders or powers that be in the South and North block have to respect the legitimate political and nationalist aspirations of the people of State in general and Jammu and Ladakh including Gujjars and Bakerwals and Kashmiri Hindus in particular", the release stated. |
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‘Bhagwad Geeta is
Bible of Humanity’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 27: Sant Shri Aasa Ramji Bapu has said that blind kindness and affection of parents are obstacles in the overall development of their children. Delivering his sermons to over a strong gathering of over sixty thousands at GGM Science College Ground here this morning today, the great Saint referred to the blind kindness of parents towards their children and maintained that they must avoid it because such acts are the real obstacles in the overall development of their wards. He also quoted certain examples to present his view point in right perspective and said that the parents should let their wards learn their children the real facts of life and face the challenges so that his self-confidence and morale is strengthened. Under the influence of ‘Moh’ (affection) the parents do whatever they can and even cross all the limits for the comforts of their children. They should also realise the long term impact of the their acts on the life and the future of the children. The great God is much kind towards their children (human being) but He is never indulges in such type of blind affection. Everything is useful and good up to some limit, he maintained. The parents should let their wards to learn the difference of too cold and hot, good and bad so that he/she can learn from their experiences. If a father being Principal of a School helps/ favours his son/ daughter in studies by using unfair means, he is great fool and spoiling the career of his child. If wealthy parents lavishly spent on their children and not keeping a check on them, it means they are spoiling the habits of their children which may mar their career. "God is great architect and keeps vast wisdom to control the activities of the entire universe. He is competent to do anything and is omnipresent. One must practise to have His glimpse by ‘Dhayanayoga’ / Satsang / Bhagwat Path or adopting other means of true service to the mankind." The great saint also spoke on the teachings of Bhagwad Geeta and termed it as one of the greatest Granthas/ holy books of the world. It contains the solution to every problem if one reads it with full concentration. The teaching of this great holy book are not for Hindus only but for all the children of the Great God, whether they are Hindu, Muslims, Sikh, Christian or belong to any other religion. Humanity is the the great religion. He further maintained that Sanatan Dharma is very great as it teaches us to love all and respect all the religions. A human being should keep control on his all the senses. It develops competence and hidden power in your voice and thoughts. It improves self confidence and gives strength to your resolves. Automatically, it gives rise to the wonders through you. If your heart is clear, mind is clear, it will definitely keeps your resolve in high esteem and give strength to your resolution. The great Guru also referred to the Guru-Bhakti and Guru Mareyada. The real Guru shows his pupil/ follower the divine path of peace and God. A man should not feel sorrow and get perturbed after recalling his past days. He should not be over joyed after receiving all the comforts or great treasure/ wealth. God’s glimpse and his service is the great wealth. The great sant also gave valuable advises to the people and asked them to remain careful about their health. He also told about the uses of Ayurvedic medicines. Referring to the Bhagwad Satsang he said this is a bridge which paves a way for a Bhagati. Through Bagti one attains eternal peace which never fades away. Through this eternal peace, an individual can find God which is in the innerself of every human being but due to ignorance and attachment with the worldly things and luxuries one can not experience this inwardly presence and elopes in darkness. Shri Bapu says— one who prays to God with devotion keeping his self and ego aside , he/ she can attain real happiness , real peace and ultimate Mukti ( liberation). In his fascinating discourse, Shri Bapu said that Khwaza Dil Mohd who had great reverence for his holy granth of 700 shlokas had mentioned—Gita Roopi Granth Ko Mera Lakh Lakh Salam Hai. In his words—Geeta is not the Bible of Hindus but it is the Bible of the humanity. |
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Finance Minister
rules out renewal of Amnesty Scheme Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, April 27: To maintain a check on economic irregularities and to improve finance conditions, State Government has formulated certain strict laws to generate more revenue. "Economic offerenders will be booked under Public Safety Act (PSA) and rigorous imprisonment of 3 to 7 years will be given to those who were found involved in committing economic offends ", this was disclosed by Minister of Finance, Mr Abdul Rahim Rather while talking to a deputation of the Jammu Hotel Restaurant and Bar Association. "Beside imprisonment ten times penalty will also be slapped on the offerenders", Finance Minister further said. "We have made certain changes in the Tax Laws to keep a check on economic irregularities", he said and added that strict and deterrent laws have been made in this regard. Responding to the demands of Jammu Hotel Restaurant and Bar Association, Mr Rather flatly ruled out renewal of much touted Amenesty Scheme. "It is not possible to again offer the Amenesty Scheme", he made it clear but added that some individual cases would be discussed. Appreciating people of Jammu region particular Hotel Restaurant and Bar Association for organising Jammu Mela, Finance Minister lavished praised on Jammuites for maintaining brotherhood despite repeated attempt by anti-social elements. Earlier Jammu Hotel Restaurants and Bar Association served a memorandum to the Finance Minister. In the memorandum the Association reminded the Finance Minister about assurance given to them regarding abolition of 2 percent Lodging Tax on hotel room rent. Association regretted that tax has been rather increased upto 4.2 percent. Association also demanded reduction in the Sale Tax on liquor and Beer. Memorandum stated that Sales Tax on liquor and Beer is charged @ 31.5 percent on last point of sale which makes it costlier as compared to other States. Association also demanded extension of SRO No 72 which has been expired on 31 December 2000. "We understand that the SRO has been extended for another 7 years with same terms and conditions. We have been running from pillar to post to get the tourism industry the same status as per other priority sector industries since it is the second largest industry in the State after agriculture", the memorandum reads as. The central Investment Subsidy was withdrawn in 1989 and was replaced with State Subsidy but this has not been released for the period 1989 to 1995. This has badly affected the units which came into being during this period. This pending subsidy needs to be disbursed at an earliest. The business of bars hardly covers the license fee of Rs 1 lakh being charged by the Government every year. Therefore, this needs to be reviewed and reduced in a realistic manner. The influx of illegal trade being carried on by unscrupulous persons in resulting in loss to the state exchequer needs to be checked immediately. Similarly, the illegal sale of liquor being done by the Dhabas and juice vendors at very cheap rates without paying any license fee or sales tax to the Government is hampering or business. This required immediate check by the Excise and Police Departments. The old hotels in the state should be given soft loans for their moderinisation at subsidised rate of interest so as to enable them to compete in today’s modern era. The state used to have a Tourism Advisory Committee which was dissolved about 7-8 years’ back after which it was never constituted. Hence we request that Tourism Advisory Committee be constituted immediately with representatives from tourist trade so that day-to-day problems can be discussed and sorted out. Besides, office bearers of the Association and Mr A R Rather, the Finance Minister, the meeting was also attended by Mr M M Bhat, Excise Commissioner, J&K. Mr V K Garg, president, Mr H S Anand and other members of the Association were present in the meeting. |
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NC leader ridicules Hurriyat stand Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 27: Former Cabinet Minister and National Conference (NC) leader Dr Mehboob Beg has criticised the Hurriyat Conference for rejecting the Centre’s offer on talks. While reacting to Hurriyat’s statement he said it is shocking to say that the conglomerate is now insisting on visiting Pakistan when they were all along talking about pre-conditions to such talks. He while ridiculing the Hurriyat stand said it should have been more concerned about Kashmiris agonies and misiries rather than their visit to Pakistan . They should have instead insisted on stoppage of blood shed in Kashmir as a condition for such talks . Dr Beg said second shock from Hurriyat is their claim that they be treated as sole representatives of Kashmiris. He wondered whether it is Delhi or Pakistan to decide about the representatives character of Kashmiris. He asserted that only ballot can decide about such a character and Delhi-Pakistan or a "Kashmir "bandh" call can not decide this. He said from 1977 onwards the ballot has along indicated and proved that NC alone has the mandate of all three regions of the State . Dr Beg appealed the people to come together and end the agony common Kashmiri is undergoing for the last over a decade. He urged the people to back the Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah in order to make the peace initiative of Prime Minister a success. |
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