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| Rich tributes paid to Pt. Prem Nath
Bhat India will give befitting reply if war thrusted: Shah Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: The acting Chief Minister, Mr Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Shah today warned that if war was thrusted on us we will give a befitting reply to the enemy.....more JK to
launch ambitious Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 27: Jammu and Kashmir Government is working on an ambitious project for conservation, promotion and commercialization......more Slathia
visits border Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec. 27: The Minister for Power, Mr.S.S.Slathia accompanied by a team of officers today visited border villages of Nanga, Kandral....more Unified
Headquarters Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Amidst tension on the border, the Unified Headquarters today reviewed the situation and declared that there ......more Health
Mela organised Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Jammu and Kashmir Nature Cure Federation organised a one day health awareness mela.....more |
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Two Auqaf
Administrators Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: State Vigilance Organisation has booked the then Administrators of Auqaf Jammu namely—Asgar Ali and Annayatullah Baba for illegal allotment of prime land in Jammu to some favourites.......more Panchayat
Sammelan Excelsior Correspondent RAMNAGAR, Dec 27: J&K Far-Flung Area Association, Ramnagar tehsil Unit organised a Panchayat Samellan at Gandh and Kulwanta in which Sarpanchs and Panchs and about 600 Village Defence Committee members from different villages of hilly Dudu Basantgarh and Ramnagar blocks took part.....more R S Pura
Bar demands Excelsior Correspondent R S PURA, Dec 27: The members of Bar Association R S Pura have reiterated their demand of upgradation of local court.......more BSP
celebrates Dr Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Bishnah unit organised a function at Ambedkar Bhawan Bishnah to celebrate death anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar..........more |
Rich tributes paid to Pt. Prem Nath
Bhat Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: The acting Chief Minister, Mr Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Shah today warned that if war was thrusted on us we will give a befitting reply to the enemy. Addressing a function in connection with observance of 12th the martyrdom of Pt. Prem Nath Bhat, Mr Shah asserted that any body daring to violate our borders will be taught a lesson by our bold soldiers who have earned a recognition in entire world. The Minister while lambasting Pakistan said she may try to create panic and disturbance in the country and for strengthening the hands of the Central Government and to see that our armed forces should emerge as victorious we have to maintain unity at this critical juncture. He said Pakistan thrusted four wars on us and in all the four wars she had to face a humiliating defeat. And knowing the results better, Pakistan perpetuated a proxy war by exploiting the people on the name of religion. He while making a strong dig at All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) said that by toeing the line of Pakistan they (Hurriyat) have become the merchants of death. He said Pakistan has no history of its own while in comparison to that the India has a big historical and cultural background which is the mark of our identification. The Pakistan has come into existence on communal basis and Its claim over Kashmir is also on the same ground for which it gets funds from some Muslim countries, America and China, he alleged. He while referring to the problems of the exiled community said Pandits identity is only safe in Kashmir and assured that Government will not take any decision on their return in haste. He maintained that the community will return to its homes and hearths only after the situation becomes conducive in Valley. Mr Shah said that his son has also become the migrant along with other members of family after the terrorism gripped the Valley in 1989 and when I could not force him to return at this juncture how will I ask you. He said the designs of the enemy can be frustrated if we unitedly give her a befitting reply and she will never succeed in her gameplan. The Minister said including Pandits every Kashmiri suffered immensely during the 12 year long terrorism and cautioned that we should not give it a communal tinch. "Twice bombs were hurled at my house", he said, adding the misguided youth committed brutalities on gun point which I can not also forget throughout my life. But we can not blame every Kashmiri for that. He said I have also become refugee but so far as a Kashmiri Muslim is concerned he was mislead as we believed in puluralistic character and there was no difference between Muslims and Hindus prior to break out of proxy war. He said those who took the guns in hand and perpetuated a reign of terror can not be classified as fundamentalists but fanatics. The fundamentalist is he who believes in Quran and its teachings, he added. They under a well hatched conspiracy made the people refugees in their own country with the back and support of Pakistan, he said, and lamented that Pakistan succeeded in her game plan as we could not check it properly. He however, maintained that majority of Kashmiris did not endorse the terrorism and the youth who fell in the trap of the enemy was due to the widespread money which was distributed by Pakistan. The Minister said today the condition is altogether different and those who worked for enemy have now realised that this has brought a bad name to Kashmir and put a blot on our history. Mr Shah said that there is law of nature that who perpetuate atrocities on others have to reap its consequences. He said umpteen efforts were made by the enemy to communalise the situation in the state by doing the sacrilegious acts and we have to show enough maturity to defeat her designs otherwise we will be strengthening her. He said the secularism is the sole property of National Conference and hundreds of our workers sacrificed their lives to keep this banner atop. Making a dig at the terrorists who call themselves the champions of so called Jehad, the Minister said in real sense they do not know what Jehad is. To exploit the people on the name of religion is not a Jehad, he added. All religions are equal and no religion teaches barbarism and violence, he said adding Islam is the religion of humanity and there can be difference in social set up but all human beings are one. The Minister while paying rich tributes to Pt. Prem Nath Bhat recalled his long association with him He urged the Pt. Prem Nath Bhat Trust members to engage themselves in social activities as this can be the best tribute to martyr. Paying rich tributes to Pt. Prem Nath Bhat, the BJP MLA from Jammu East Mr Ashok Khajuria said both Tika Lal Taploo and Mr Bhat not only sacrificed their lives for the unity and integrity of the country but for our tomorrow. He while expressing solidarity with the displaced community said those who were masters of fortune have been forced to come on roads and take refugee at different places in the country. He said it is a bolt on the democracy that those who were preaching the entire mankind is one, are passing the days in exile at present. He said haunting of Kashmiri Pandits from their homes and hearths puts a question mark on our democracy and such a trend will pose a great threat to unity of country. In his presidential address Mr S L Shakdhar, president Delhi Samiti criticised the State Government for not doing anything for the redressal of grievances of the displaced community. He said the community is facing economic constraints for last 13 years now and the Government is looking as a mute spectator. He said the external problem can be tackled by the Central Government and army but it was the State Government and its administration which has to solve the internal problem. He while making a dig at NC said the autonomy agenda can prove dangerous and I have apprised the Prime Minister and leader of the Opposition in Parliament of this. He asserted that there would have been no demand of Panun Kashmir at present had we not been forced to flee from our homes and hearths. He wanted to know when the majority of the country can safeguard the minority why not the majority in Kashmir could provide security to the minority there. He said no policy was framed during last 13 years for the betterment of the community and the NC Government which had promised to create 13,000 jobs has done nothing till date. He also demanded that the Community be given participation in the Government. Rich tributes to late leader were paid by Dr Koushalia Wali and Mr Yash Bhasin, Trustee Pt. Prem Nath Bhat. Among others who were present on the occasion include Messrs B L Bhat MLC, A N Vaishnavi, ASKPC chief, T N Khosa, president K P Sabha, Dr B L Bhat, Dr R L Bhat, K K Raina, general secretary Pir Panchal, R L Pandita, NC Minority Cell district chief, T N Pandit RSS leader and H L Chata, vice president ASKPC. Earlier mother of Rohit Sadhoo Mrs Asha Sadhoo, a J&K Police constable who was killed in terrorists attack at Assembly in Srinagar on October 1 and wife of Janki Nath Kaul of Muran in Pulwama who was killed by militants in 1990 were presented a citation and shwal by the Trust. The function started with the Sarswati Vandhna by students of Abhay Public School Muthi. It was followed by garlanding of the portrait of Pt Prem Nath Bhat, lighting of traditional lamp and Vandaymatram. |
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JK
to launch ambitious medicinal, aromatic plants Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 27: Jammu and Kashmir Government is working on an ambitious project for conservation, promotion and commercialization of medicinal and aromatic plants with adequate market tie-up. The project, envisaged at tapping the huge natural resource of the state, will be prepared by the Regional Research Laboratory (RRL), Jammu in two months. This was stated by the Chief Secretary, Mr. Ashok Jaitly while interacting with the scientists of RRL here today. Mr. Jaitly said the state possesses a great plant wealth that is yet to be fully tapped on commercial scale, which in turn could accrue abundant benefit to farmers. He said the time has come to act firmly and utilize the sound state-of-the-art base of RRL for exploiting the treasure house of the medicinal plants at a much larger scale. This requires all out efforts by various agencies keeping in view world wide interest in medicinal and aromatic plants which has also put the RRL, Jammu at the centre stage of activity, he added. The Chief Secretary stressed for undertaking an evaluative study to analyse how best the state could be benefited from the RRL. He said the data base of medicinal plant material coupled with adequate awareness are pre-requisite for integrated development of this sector, which could largely contribute to the state’s economy. He said this database needs to be linked with other institutes for comprehensive study on better utilization of plant material. The cultivation, promotion and tie-up with related industry is equally important for this repository of wide spectrum to be exploited on scientific lines on a sustained basis. He said there is now a shift in public mood on getting cured through natural ways that has raised the demand for medicinal and aromatic plant extractions even for serious ailments. He said, an action plan is imperative to produce concrete results within a definite time frame. He said interaction should be held with industry to elicit opinion for development of the medicinal plants on commercial lines. He also asked for standardization of medicinal plant material for better returns and successful competition in the international market. The plants having high market demand should be identified for holistic development besides bringing refinement of technology with specific approach. The Chief Secretary said that a Medicinal Plants Development Board has been set up in the state for development of medicinal plants. He said herbal gardens are also being set up in all the districts of Jammu and Kashmir besides establishing demonstration plots to create awareness among the farmers about medicinal plants cultivation practices. A scheme will also be prepared for setting up of demonstration plots in the cultivable land and suggested optimum utilization of the available barren land for growing different species. Mr. Jaitly asked the Forest Department to initiate action for making suitable amendments in the Kuth Act and other relevant laws to remove constraints in opening up of medicinal plants sector for commercialization since it has tremendous potential to generate revenue and employment. A presentation on integrated development of medicinal and aromatic plants was also given on the occasion. The Chief Secretary also went round various state-of-the-art laboratories of the RRL. These include microbiology lab associated with medicinal plants, immuno-modulatory lab, where study is done on anti-cancer cells on plant extracts, repository, where newly developed drugs are kept for further processing, herbarium section, where data on herbal plants is updated besides culture lab set up for development and propagation of endangered plant material. He also visited Rs.4.50 crore newly set up backup instrumentation lab. It has latest technology for quality control of the products as per the international standards. The Director, RRL, Jammu, Dr.G.N. Qazi informed the Chief Secretary about the functioning of the institution besides pioneering research being done in different disciplines. Vice-Chancellors of SKUAST, Srinagar and Jammu, Dr. M. Yusuf Kamal and Mr. H.U.Khan, Commissioner/Secretary, Forests, Mr. B.S. Jaswal, and senior officers of the Forest Department and scientists from RRL participated in the deliberations. |
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Slathia visits border areas, assures all help to migrants Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec. 27: The Minister for Power, Mr.S.S.Slathia accompanied by a team of officers today visited border villages of Nanga, Kandral, Samdoo, Jassochak, Abptal, Dhug and Greda villages in Ramgarh sector of Jammu district to ascertain the situation arising out of Pak shelling. He interacted with the villagers and inquired about their welfare. The people of these villages apprised the Minister that there was no migration in this sector and all the people are putting up at their native villages and doing routeen business without any fear. However, the migration from other border areas has created panic among the people. The Minister appreciated the patience and courage shown by the people of the area particularly during last four wars imposed on us by the Pakistan. He said that unity and integration among the people was essential to frustrate the nefarious designs of the enemy. Mr. Slathia appealed the print and electronic media to desist from sensationalizing border situation and before publishing or broadcast of such reports, the facts should be properly verified from the concerned authorities so that people are not unnecessarily disturbed and scared. He said this would also go a long way to encourage our brave Jawans to give befitting reply to our enemy. The Minister also met the migrant families of Samba sector who are putting up at Samba area. The Minister gave a patient hearing to the people and assured all possible help from the Government. He said all efforts are being made to provide food grains, accommodation and other essentials to the effected families. The government is keenly watching the situation and taking appropriate steps to meet the challenging posed by our neighbor, he said. The Minister was apprised that at present 900 people migrated from Banglad, Sordi, Faquirachak, Bencamp and other adjoining villages of Samba tehsil are putting up at Government Girls High School, Samba and Boys Middle School, Kalimandi. Mr. Slathia lauded the role of the local people of Samba for helping the migrants by arranging free Langers and providing other essentials. He said tented accommodation will be made available if need arises. He directed Chief Engineer; PDD to reschedule the night power cuts in-migrants camps keeping in view the overcrowded accommodation. He also directed the local officers to keep close rapport with the migrants and pay frequent visits to the border villages so that necessary arrangements are made well in advance to meet any contingency. |
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Unified Headquarters review situation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Amidst tension on the border, the Unified Headquarters today reviewed the situation and declared that there was no need to panic. In a meeting chaired by Nagrota Corps Commander and attended by Home Secretary and state police chief besides senior army and civil officials, the Unified Headquarters expressed concern over the heightened tension due to occupation of defences all alone the Line of Control and International Border by Pakistan army, movement of its strategic reserves and continued unprovoked firing and shelling. The meeting stressed that there was no need for panic and all action were to be taken in a planned, co-ordinated and organised manner to meet all contingencies in case of a hostile action taken by the enemy, an official release said. The meeting decided to take measure to involve civil populating in meeting the challenges in the border villages and stressed for their participation in blunting the acts of saboteurs. The Unified Headquarters praised the support being rendered by people to army personnel and their resolved to fight along the uniformed men. |
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Health Mela organised at Aghar Jitto Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Jammu and Kashmir Nature Cure Federation organised a one day health awareness mela at Aghar Jitto in Reasi block in collaboration with J&K Ex-Service League, Jammu. Large number of people took part in this Mela which was presided over by Dr Ved Kumari Ghai, Director of Institute of Natural Hygiene, Amaphalla Jammu. Dr H N Patwari, Depty Director, ISM Jammu was the chief guest. It was stressed upon during the Mela to use the medicinal plants and preserve the same by planting more such plants that were of day to day use for the common masses. A special mention was made of plants like Jamun, Amla, Neembu and Neem. |
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Two Auqaf Administrators booked in Vigilance case Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: State Vigilance Organisation has booked the then Administrators of Auqaf Jammu namely—Asgar Ali and Annayatullah Baba for illegal allotment of prime land in Jammu to some favourites. A senior official in the Vigilance Commissioner’s office disclosed that both the top officers have been booked under case FIR No. 17/ 2001 and 18/ 2001 under Section 5(2) Prevention of Corruption Act, 2006. The action was taken after the SVO received a complaint that Administrator of Auqaf Jammu had allowed one Tej Ram (GPT) of Jammu to raise illegal construction, addition and alterations to a building on the Auqaf land at Dera Sher Shah Jammu without the prior approval of the monitoring and consultative committee on Auqaf affairs. It was further alleged that the rent of the said land was reduced by the Administrator to confer undue benefit upon the allottee. The allegations were prima facie established in the course of a preliminary enquiry conducted by the Vigilance organisation. The enquiry had disclosed that the then Administrator had drawn funds from the bank accounts of Auqaf which were subsequently misappropriated. Not only this, the accused official had also allotted one shop at Kunjwani Talab to one Mrs Kanta Devi against the existing norms. The enquiry established that various acts of ommissions and commissions on the part of then Administrator had caused loss to the Auqaf Jammu. Case FIR 18/ 2001 is registered against Asgar Ali which owes its origin to a complaint received by the SVO alleging that Mr Ali had allotted land at Dera Sher Shah Jammu on lease basis to one Mohd Ismail of Residency Road, Jammu with a condition that allottee will not sublet the land. It was found that allotment had been made unauthorisedly and without the approval of monitoring and consultative committee. It was established that a portion of land had been sold by the allottee to a person against the consideration of Rs 7 lakh during 1995-96, in connivance with the Administrator. After establishment of offence, a case was registered against both the officials. |
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Panchayat Sammelan organised in Ramnagar tehsil Excelsior Correspondent RAMNAGAR, Dec 27: J&K Far-Flung Area Association, Ramnagar tehsil Unit organised a Panchayat Samellan at Gandh and Kulwanta in which Sarpanchs and Panchs and about 600 Village Defence Committee members from different villages of hilly Dudu Basantgarh and Ramnagar blocks took part. Addressing the Samelan, state president of Association Mr Mohinder Singh Thakur expressed serious concern over the apathy of the State and Central Governments in the matter of non-release of renumerations to the VDCs of Ramnagar and Chenani tehsil of Udhampur district. Association leader was apprised by the VDC members that they are helping to conduct elections successfully and cooperating Army and Police to fight the menace of terrorism in the respective areas and cannot do the private job but facing economic problems due to non-delivery of minimum wages. He urged the State as well as Central Government to take cognizance of the matter and release the honorarium otherwise association will adopt agitational path. He while lauding the role of VDCs demanded that the VDC members be recruited as SPOs and special package to encourage VDCs like BPL status to VDCs besides equipping them with sohpisticated weapons and wireless sets so as to wipe out the terrorism. He called upon the VDC members and villagers to remain vigilant and united so as to frustrate the ill designs of militants. He also asked the local youths to shun the path of terrorism and join the national main stream. He deliberated and dwelt upon development aspect of the area and vociferously resented the callous attitude of district administration, Udhampur which has failed to ensure proper functioning of Government institutions. He also expressed concern over the cancellation of Ram Nagar to Majouri morning bus service and J&K SRTC service on Udhampur to back Udhampur via Chenani, Dudu Ram Nagar which plied only on the day of inauguration and demanded restoration of the same. He assured the villagers and VDC members that their problems will be solved through respective concerned authorities. |
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R S Pura Bar demands upgradation of court Excelsior Correspondent R S PURA, Dec 27: The members of Bar Association R S Pura have reiterated their demand of upgradation of local court as District and Sessions Judge court at R S Pura town. A deputation of the Bar members headed by its president Mr R S Chib met the Registrar General, J&K High Court and submitted a memorandum seeking early redressal of their long pending demand. The members pointed out that lawyers are on the strike for the last 23 days and the struggle will continue till the demand is accepted. They said R S Pura is the oldest court in the state set up in 1905 and since then no upgradation has been witnessed in nearly 96 years. The Registrar assured the Bar members that he will place the matter before the Chief Justice of J&K High Court. The copy of the memorandum was also sent to District and Sessions Judge Jammu and the secretary to Chief Justice of J&K High Court. The members while justifying their claim pointed out that it was very unfortunate that even after the pretty long period of nearly a century, the court at R S Pura has never moved a step ahead. The authorities at the helm of affairs did not bother for its upgradation. The town being most populous in the region witnessed rehabilitation of large number of refugees from PoK/ Pakistan in 1947 and even in 1965. The population has increased manifold in last 9-10 decades. The people from remote border corners like Arnia, Sai Kurd, Suchetgarh, Chanduchak, Begga etc. have to come to attend courts in Jammu which is third assembly constituency for them. They have to come from Suchetgarh constituency to R S Pura and then change bus for Jammu. Taking in view the hardships of the people, one of the District and Sessions Judges be shifted to R S Pura court, the members pleaded. Prominent among those who accompanied Mr Chib included Messrs D P Choudhary, Paramjit Singh, Gurcharan Singh, Amarjit Sudan, Joginder Singh and others. |
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BSP celebrates Dr
Ambekdar’s death anniversary Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Bishnah unit organised a function at Ambedkar Bhawan Bishnah to celebrate death anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar. According to a press release, large number of people from Bishnah and adjoining areas participated in the function. Speakers threw light on the ideology and mission of Dr Ambedkar who was the champion of the cause of down trodden lot of the society. State president of the BSP, Sheikh Abdul Rehman, senior vice president, Girdhari Lal Bhagat, general secretary, Roop Lal, Sewa Raman, Pritam Chand Pagathia, B D Bhagat, Capt Hari Chand, Dr Manohar Lal Rao, Mrs Sudesh Puri, Rachh Pal Chand, Parvez Ahmed, Gulam Hassan, Gharu Ram, Harbir Singh Sidhu, Amit Manhas and others paid rich tributes to Dr Ambedkar. Mr Rehman in his address exhorted the people to help poor people of the society. Mr Hans Raj, Banarsi Lal, Gurdayal, Ram Lal, Kansi Ram, Bishan Dass, Ram Lal, Ex-Hav Thoru Ram, Rattan Lal, Surila Kumari, Nitu Puri, Babita Rani, Gudo Devi, Shello Devi, Garo Devi, Parito Devi, Sansaro Devi, Tarsem Lal, Pritam Chand, Thoru Ram, Milkhy Ram, Santosh Kumari, Naro Devi, Ashok Kumar and other leaders resigned from their parties and joined BSP. |
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Official vehicle
becomes issue Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: They sat together to discuss the different issues relating to child development but the meeting ended in chaos and confusion with the Tehsildar fleeing after locking the others in the meeting room. This is what really happened in the office of Tehsildar Bishnah Mr Bansi Lal this afternoon. The Tehsildar along with other officers held a meeting with Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Ms Suriya Aga in his office to discuss some issues reportedly relating to child development. After few minutes of the meeting, both the Tehsildar and CDPO entered into a verbal dual over some issue with both hurling abuses on each other. All the other officers, both with the Tehsildar and CDPO, remained mute spectator to the war of attrition between Mr Bansi Lal and Ms Suriya Aga. During the war of words, the Tehsildar asked the CDPO to give back her official vehicle as the same was meant for the office of Tehsildar. The CDPO refused to do so by saying that she was provided vehicle by the Deputy Commissioner Jammu and she could not give back the same without the order of DC. The verbal dual between the two lasted for about half an hour following which Tehsildar flanked by other officers went out of the room and bolted the same from outside. The repeated cries of the CDPO and other women were ignored by the Tehsildar who along with others left the office. The CDPO and other woman remained inside the room for about three hours and it was only after the people heared their cries the room was got opened. The CDPO alongwith other woman straightaway went to the Bishnah Police Station and filed a complaint against the Tehsildar. Though the Bishnah Police has not registered any case so far yet the matter has been brought to the notice of senior authorities including Deputy Commissioner, Jammu Mr Rohit Kansal and the investigation were on to ascertain the facts behind the incident. "The matter is being investigated by senior officers and facts would be brought to light tomorrow", Munshi of Bishnah Police Station said. |
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| Sixty pc plan funds utilized on various
works in Baramulla Excelsior Correspondent BARAMULLA, Dec 27: Nearly 60 per cent of the district plan outlay of Rs.61.65 crore has been spent so far on execution of various developmental works and implementation of welfare schemes in Baramulla district during last 8 months. This information was given at the mid-term review meeting held here today under the chairmanship of the Works Minister, Mr. Ali Muhammad Sagar. Giving a resume of the Physical and Financial achievements recorded in various sectors during this period, the District Development Commissioner said that Rs.6.98 crore have been spent under agriculture and allied sectors, Rs.2.95 crore under Rural Development, Rs. 1.07 crore under industries, Rs. 4.59 crore under communication and Rs. 16.87 crore under social and general services sectors. Besides, he said an additionality of Rs.10 crore approved by the District Development Board is being spent on various works in the district. The District Development Commissioner said under R and B sector a road length of 36.37 kms has been black topped, 87.39 kms upgraded and 1.44 kms made fair-weather road. The department during this period also constructed 31 culverts. In the PHE sector 11 schemes out of 51 currently under progress under State Plan are targeted for completion by the end of current year at a cost of Rs.4 cror. Similarly under Centrally sponsored accelerated rural water supply programme, 43 schemes are targeted for completion at a cost of Rs.12 crore. Under irrigation sector work is in progress on Rafiabad Lift Irrigation Scheme and Zainager canal modernization scheme. In Rural Development Sector 307 works have been completed under EAS generating 1.89 lac mandays. The Works Minister in his address called far acceleration of the pace of works especially in R and B, PHE and Irrigation and Flood control sectors under NABARD programme. He said during a recent meeting with the Chief Minister, Dr. Farooq Abdullah with NABARD authorities, it has been agreed to sanction all the projects for J&K. Mr. Sagar said that NABARD has set a loan target of Rs. 250 crores to be lifted by March, 2002 for the purpose. He said, out of this only Rs. 70 crores have been lifted so far and there was urgent need to take more projects in hand at the earliest. He asked the PDD authorities to strictly adhere to the curtailment schedule and desist from resorting to unscheduled power cuts. The meeting passed a resolution condemning the December 12 incident in which 7 civilians lost their lives in a firing incident at Baramulla. The meeting also prayed for the eternal peace of the victims. The meeting also reviewed the security and developmental scenario of the border areas of the district. The Minister instructed the authorities to ensure adequate supply of essential commodities in the border areas. The meeting among others was attended by former Minister, Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari, Legislators, Mujahid Mohammad Abdullah, Mr. Ghulam Rasool Naaz, Mr. Mohammaad Maqbool, Mr. Faqir Khan and Mr. Mohammad Aslam be sides senior officers and prominent citizens of the district. |
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Bukhari
inaugurate 5-day Mahila Shakti Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 27: An amount of Rs. 2.50 crore is being spent on 11 Welfare Extension projects in border areas of the State during the current financial year by the State Social Welfare Board. This was stated by the Minister of State for Social Welfare, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari while inaugurating 5-day Mahila Shakti Mela-cum-Exhibition here today. The exhibition was organised by the J&K State Social Welfare Board as a part of Women’s Empowerment year. As many as 35 voluntary organization are being participating in the exhibition. These organizations have been aided by the Board under various schemes like vocational training, Norad, socio, economic and awareness generating programmes. Addressing on the occasion, the Minister lauded the role of State Social Welfare Board for organising such programmes and suggested that the Board should also further energize its activities in far flung areas like Poonch, Rajouri,Doda,Kishtwar and Kathua. Appreciating the working of the NGOs, the Minister said that the State Government is also ready to help the genuine NGOs in getting grant-in-aid from the Central Government in addition they are getting from the Board. He advised them to furnish their proposals in this regard through the District Social Welfare Officers. He also appreciated the work being done by these NGOs particularly for introducing crewel and sozni crafts in Jammu division which have so far remained confined to valley only. He also desired that the State Social Welfare Board should explore possibilities of providing marketing facilities for goods produced by the NGOs on regular basis. He also went round the various stalls at exhibition.The Minister was informed that the State Social Welfare Board has been implementing various schemes for the welfare of women and children. Presently the Board has 11 welfare extension projects at Leh, Kargil Gurez, Karnah, Baramulla, Badgam, Poonch, Rajouri, Akhnoor, Hiranagar and R.S.Pura. The Board also run 106 crèches for 1650 children in the age group of 0-6 years with the financial implication of Rs.16 lakh per annum. Besides women and girls in the age group of 15-35 years are being provided vocational training. For this purpose, Rs.41.77 lakhs were sanctioned in 27 NGOs during last financial year. |
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Several Army battalions
withdrawn from Budhal, Mahore By Gopal Sharma JAMMU, Dec 27: Apprehending massive strike of armed militants in the remote and hilly areas after withdrawal of several Army battalions to the border areas, scared families belonging to minority community have resorted to migrate from remote areas of Budhal to the safer places in district Rajouri. The intelligence inputs have indicated that fresh incidents of migration from several interior areas falling under the area of operation of Romeo Sector, now — 13 Sector RR, comprising of areas of Budhal, Kandi Darhal and parts of Mahore, have been reported today. The pull out by the four Army Battalions commenced on Monday and it has been completed now in phased manner, leaving the hapless civilian population to face the brunt of the ultras. While the withdrawal of troops from several remote areas is over, the Jammu and Kashmir Police or the Border Security Force and even the Central Reserve Force has yet to take control of the area. The intelligence agencies as well as the civilians are fearing possible massacres if the para-military forces or the state police failed to act in time. The people are eagerly awaiting re-deployment of security forces in these abandoned remote pockets. It has been learnt that with the pulling up from the sector by army battalions on internal security duty, the confidence of the villagers, particularly belonging to minority communities (Sikhs and Hindus), has been shattered. They are feeling insecured as all the security force pickets in these isolated and remote areas have been abandoned, paving a way for free movement of the armed militants. Reports indicated that from the remotest Kot and Charal villages of Budhal, bordering Mahore which is a vulnerable part of Romeo sector, thirteen families have migrated. About 25 souls from an adjoining hamlet including majority of women and children have started migration to the safer places. It takes more 24 hours to travel on foot in some of these remote areas where road and other communication means are non-existent. While a senior BSF official IS duty in the area confirmed the incident of migration the Deputy Inspector General of Police Rajouri-Poonch Mr S S Bijral said that he had no knowledge about the incident. He admitted that Army has been withdrawn from most of the areas of Kandi and Budhal and efforts are being made to cover the area. The Unified Command and the Higher Authorities are aware of these developments and the required steps will be taken as per requirement. He, however, maintained that in view of the war threat, the priorities have changed and the situation is being monitored by the Administration. It was observed from his remarks that senior police authorities in these two twin border districts were awaiting instructions from the top for any appropriate action for the protection of innocent and scared civilians in these areas. Director General of Police, Mr A R Suri told Excelsior that matter has been taken up with the Government of India as state have not sufficient force to replace Army and cover the entire areas abandoned. When asked about increasing threat of mass migration of people from these pockets he said, " they should not move and wait for the forces to reach". He further disclosed that no such decision has been taken in today’s Unified Headquarters meet regarding re-deployment of any specific force in these pockets. It may be recalled that area was earlier being looked after by 29 Mountain Division and then by the Romeo Sector force and now had been taken over by 13 Sector Rashtriya Rifles. This force in past ten months have eliminated more than fifty militants in this area and smashed a large number of militant hide-outs. The reports also indicated that in some depth areas of Thana Mandi, Bafliaz and Surankot some army units have been started moving towards LoC. Deputy Inspector General Border Security Force for I S Duty in Rajouri sector, Mr R R Singh said he was monitoring the developments in the interior areas. There is no doubt that with the withdrawal of army units, the people residing in isolated hamlets and villagers are feeling scared and apprehending strikes of ultras but the BSF based here have not received any fresh instructions of deployment in those pockets till today. There may be some decision at the top level today in the Unified command meeting or at other level and the force is ready to obey the orders. He disclosed that seven BSF battalions are already here on the job to cover several areas including Rajouri-Budhal, Mahore, Gool, Sangaldan and Ramban. But more battalions are required to control this remotest and toughest region of Pir Panjal ranges. He said three BSF battalions were deployed in Kandi-Budhal and some other parts of Rajouri while some deployment is also there along the LoC. But in view of the hightened tension army has moved to the forward locations as per their secret plan. They never divulge for any action or movement and have their own strategy and planning, he maintained. |
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| Excesses against innocents can never be
tolerated: Sagar Excelsior Correspondent BARAMULLA, Dec 27: The Minister for Works, Mr. Ali Muhammad Sagar has said that excesses against innocent civilians can never be tolerated and the Government was committed to ensure that no rights violations take place in the name of fighting militancy. Addressing a public meeting here today, the Minister said that security forces should ensure safety of civilians while fighting militants. He said the people of the State have got entrapped in a devil and the deep sea situation as they are facing bullets from all the sides. Mr. Sagar said in the present situation it was the utmost duty of the administration to ensure safety and security of the innocent civilians. The Minister blamed the gun-culture for bringing miseries to the people of the State. He said the words like killings, torture and rights violations were alien to Kashmiris before the onset of the ongoing turmoil."It is because of militancy that we are facing all sorts of miseries today", Mr. Sagar said and added that besides shedding the blood of thousands of Kashmiris the militancy has caused large scale destruction in the State. Mr. Sagar said the people who are responsible for bringing the gun to the State, are today yearning to grab the power after getting thousands of innocents killed. He said the same people who once welcomed the militants as Mujahideen are today in the fore-front of labeling them as terrorists and have distanced themselves from militancy after amassing huge wealth. Mr. Sagar said the National Conference has always opposed violence as it brings nothing except destruction. He said in 1987, the National Conference had offered to step down to ensure that peace and normalcy is not disturbed in the State. However, the enemies of peace resorted to violence in the name of Azadi, which only resulted in innocent blood letting. The Minister called upon the people to stand against the evil designs of the enemies of peace to prevent further blood shed in the State."We have already paid a heavy price and for God sake save this paradise from further destruction", he pleaded and urged the militants also to understand the nefarious designs of their mentors and stop innocent blood letting. The Minister criticised the political opponents of the National Conference for resorting to malicious propaganda against the government functionaries. He accused them of changing colours like a chameleon to suit their political interests. Mr. Sagar said even our political opponents had once become the sympathisers of the militants. Without naming anybody, Mr. Sagar said, these are the same people who are responsible for massacre of Kashmiris. Responding to the demand of the people to bring the culprits of December 8 incident to book, the Minister said that the Government has already ordered a thorough probe into the incident and appropriate action would be taken after the report is submitted to the Government. Legislators Ghulam Rasool Naaz and Mujahid Muhammad Abdullah also addressed the meeting. Interacting with media persons at Police Control Room here this evening the IGP said that Ghulam Ahmad Bhat reportedly involved as being bureau chief of Kashmir awareness forum New Delhi was also arrested at airport today. Meanwhile, on the occasion 7 militants surrendered with arms before the IGP. Three of them belong to Alfateh, two HM one each to Islamic front and Albadre outfits. |
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SKUAST V C for emphasis on framing research projects Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: The vice Chancellor SKUAST, Mr H U Khan has laid emphasis on framing research projects which are need based and area specific. Mr Khan who was chairing the first Research Council held at Conference Hall of SKUAST here today said that the researches should be focused on the diversification i.e cultivation of kiwi, pecanut, olive, high density plantation and location of solution of marketing of different products and by-products. Dr Rangil Singh, Director Research SKUAST, initiating the deliberations said that 102 new projects in the field of agriculture and 25 projects in veterinary field are going to be discussed. Prof S L Mehta, Deputy Director General, ICAR, New Delhi and Dr Balwant Singh eminent scientist from Punjab Agriculture University stressed on suitable modifications of the research projects framed by the faculty members of the University. These projects were presented by the heads of divisions and principal investigators in the meeting. The representatives of various development departments Dr A S Jamwal, Director Sheep Husbandry, Mr Kuku Wazir, Director Horticulture, Dr Iqbal Singh Sasan, RCO, Animal Husbandry Department and Mr B M Sharma SMS Agriculture Department highlighted the problems faced by their respective departments which need to be taken as guidelines for future research. During the deliberations main stress was laid on research activities of the University that largely contributes in its goals in the coming year and the proposed projects were approved to be taken up requisite modifications as suggested. The vote of thanks was presented by Dr A R Nazki, Associate Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry R S Pura.
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Disconnection of
power supply Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Chief Justice H K Sema and Justice S K Gupta in a batch of Letters Patent Appeals (LPAs) ordered status-quo with respect to the disconnection of electric connections of residential houses converted into commercial establishments in Gandhinagar area. These LPAs were filed against the order of the Single Judge whereby the court directed Power Development Department (PDD) to disconnect the electric connections to such residential houses who had converted their residences into the commercial establishments. The owners of these houses, who filed LPAs, submitted that the appellants were not impleaded party in the petition as well as in the contempt petition before the court. Advocates Parmod Kohli, Vishal Goel, Neeru Goswami and Rohit Kapoor appeared for the appellants. In another appeal filed by Dr S L Verma, the Bench comprising Chief Justice H K Sema and Justice R C Gandhi after hearing his counsel U K Jalali, also directed that the respondents shall not disconnect the electricity to the residential portion of the building occupied by Dr Verma. "It is, however, open to the respondents to disconnect the supply to the portion housed by the tenant who run the same for the commercial purpose", it was ordered. |
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Consider Bhaderwahi for ‘Kashir’ Channel: HC Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Chief Justice H K Sema and Justice S K Gupta in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), has directed Union of India and others to also consider inclusion of Bhaderwahi dialect on Doordarshan’s " Kashir" Channel for a limited purpose. The respondent-authority should do the needful by issuing corrigendum notifying that Bhaderwahi is also to be included for the consideration and such consideration be strictly on the basis of the need keeping in view the geographical topography and location of the people in the far-flung and militancy affected area. These directions were issued on a PIL filed by Kulwant Manhas and others, wherein it was stated that Bhaderwahi is being spoken in Doda district and by the residents living in some parts of Kathua district, but has not been included for a programme over " Kashir" Channel . It was stated that while’s Radio and Doordarshan had given due coverage to this dialect, the same was not done by the authorities looking after "Kashir Channel". Advocate S C Mansotra appeared for the petitioners while’s Romesh Arora, Additional Central government standing Counsel represented Union of India. |
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NC Govt failed to mitigate miseries of masses: BSP Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 27: State president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Sheikh Abdul Rehman today said that his party will strive hard to provide justice to those people, who have been living in far-flung backward areas. Addressing a press conference Mr Rehman charged ruling National Conference with neglecting backward areas of the State. Expressing sympathy with the demands raised by the large number of people of Rajouri district, who joined BSP today, Mr Rehman regretted that successive State Governments have neglected backward areas of the State. He said that except giving assurances Government has done nothing for the upliftment and betterment of the inhabitants of backward areas. Claiming that only BSP can mitigate miseries of the masses, Mr Rehman said that National Conference has lost its ground due to its wrong policies. He said that National Conference for its survival has been raising emotional issues to exploit sentiments of the people in the forthcoming Assembly elections. Dubbing Congress as a ‘spent- force’, he said that real face of the BJP has been exposed before the masses. "BJP is a party of capitalist class. Every policy and programme of the BJP is guided by the interests of the business class", he alleged and said that BJP has sold the country in the hands of the multinational companies. Notwithstanding policy of the BSP to provide reservation on the basis of castes, Mr Rehman today supported the demand of Rajouri leaders to include some more areas in Resident of Backward Area (RBA) category and to give them reservation and other benefits. Giving reason for supporting reservation of RBA, Mr Rehman said that BSP was not against reservation for the residents of backward and far-flung areas but he said that this reservation should not be given at the cost of other castes which are entitled to the same. He narrated example that BSP wants 27 reservations for OBCs in the State and their share should not be given to RBA. He was of the view that State Government should give reservation to RBA people but not at the cost of OBC. Earlier, large number of people from far-flung and backward areas of Rajouri district joined BSP. |
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