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| New DEA team holds meet Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: Newly elected body of All J&K Diploma Engineers Association, after having won with thumping majority, held its first meeting under the presidentship of Mr R S Jasrotia.......more Mahakali
Mandir Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: The dharna of Mahakali Mandir Shopkeeper Union, JDA Market, Bahu Fort, Jammu entered 6th day today......more Various
political parties Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: Various political parties have widely condoled the tragic demise of senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia, journalists and others in a plane crash yesterday......more Govenror,
CM Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Governor Mr Girish Chandra Saxena and Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah paid glowing tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.....more Governor,
Farooq Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Governor Mr Girish Chander Saxena and Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah have condemned the terrorist attack on the Legislature Complex......more |
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Farooq for
augmenting Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today said the Government is endeavouring to upgrade water supply schemes with facilities of filtration plants to meet........more Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today said the State Human Rights Commission is being broad based with establishment of its offices in Jammu, Doda and Rajouri...more MLA’s
allegations Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today informed legislative assembly that the allegations levelled by Mr Mushtaq Ahmed Kuchey........more Reservation
for Pahari Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah has said that Government is actively considering for granting reservation status to Pahari speaking people on the pattern of OBC/ST in the State. Responding to the queries of Mr. Mohammad Sahrief Tariq and Mr. Nisar Ahmad during Zero Hour in Legislative Assembly today, the Chief Minister..............more |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: Newly elected body of All J&K Diploma Engineers Association, after having won with thumping majority, held its first meeting under the presidentship of Mr R S Jasrotia at Irrigation Complex Jammu. As per a release describing it as a victory of the ntire cadre, Mr Jasrotia, president showed his indebtedness to the members for reposing highest faith in his team, especially at this crucial juncture. Endorsing the motion of thanks passed unanimously in the House, Mr Jasrotia rendered his heart-felt thanks and gratitude to the esteemed members, election committee chairman Mr Trilok Singh, vice chairman Mr P C Sharma and Mr R P Anand and their team, SSP Jammu Mr Swain for deploying belt force led by SDPO and SHO for making the election process free, fair and smooth. Mr R K Kohli, elected vice president said the largest ever turn out of the members in the said election has stamped and endorsed the care, courage and endeavour by which present leadership had worked in their previous term as the office bearers. He promised that the present team shall try its best to stand upto their expectations and aspirations. Mr Jugal Kishore, general secretary, elected un-opposed, called the elections as referendum for the unity and faith and held that after the election results, all the vested interest groups have vanished. Elected joint secretary R S Sudan, chief organisor V P Sharma, publicity secretary Sunil Sharma, general treasurer Paramjit Singh and executive members O R Katoch, Ashok Gupta, Ravinder Singh, Deepak Sharma, M K Bazaz, Rakesh Bargotra, Dheeraj Khajuria, S K Abrol, J S Rathore, K G Sharma and Manmohan Singh formed the House. |
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Mahakali Mandir Shopkeeper Union’s dharna continue Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: The dharna of Mahakali Mandir Shopkeeper Union, JDA Market, Bahu Fort, Jammu entered 6th day today. Mr Satish Kumar, general secretary of the Union said that none from the administration came forward to redress their grievances and warned that if immediate steps are not taken the shopkeepers will intensify their agitation. He said that the Appu Ghar authorities are misguiding the police authorities and have lodged a FIR against the agitators. He further said that all the social and political organisations have condemned this unfair and rude step of the local police and added that the authorities of the Appu Ghar are land grabbers and they know how to tackle the police that is why none from the administration side came forward to listen to their grievances. "Unless and untill the Railway Department not issue No-Objection Certificate (NOC) and JDA permit them to raise the temporary structure the authorities of Appu Ghar could nor construct the permanent Pacca structures and sublet the same. Meanwhile, Mr Rajeev Charak, State chief of Bahu Fort Development Committee today supported the call of indefinite bandh and dharna organised by Maha Kali Mandir Shop Keepers Union, Bahu Fort and criticised the State Government for not taking action against violators, encroachers and land gravers who are encroaching upon the Government as well as religious lands at various places in Jammu region. He also criticised the JDA’s Anti-Encroachment Wing, Chief Town Planner and Director, Land Management, JDA who are hand in glove with the encroachers. "The ruling elites have also indulged into encroaching upon the forest land", he said, adding how is it possible for an encroachers to ask another encroachers to stop encroachment. |
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Various political parties condole demise of Scindia Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: Various political parties have widely condoled the tragic demise of senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia, journalists and others in a plane crash yesterday. Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee paid homage to the senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia who was killed in a plane crash yesterday. A condolence meeting was held at PCC headquarters, Jammu under the chairmanship of former Minister and veteran Congress leader Mr Manohar Nath Koul. Speakers, while paying tributes to the departed soul, said that Madhavrao Scindia endeared himself to people of all political and ideological persuations and service to commonman was his hobby. The meeting also condoled the demise of seven people including four journalists who were also killed in said plane crash. Two minutes silence was observed in the memory of departed souls and it was prayed to Almighty God to grant peace to them in heaven and courage to family members to bear this irreparable loss. Muslim Federation Jammu in a meeting held under the chairmanship of its president Mr Abdul Majid condoled the death of eight persons including senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia and four journalists. Mr Majid said that the death of Mr Scindia is a national loss and the void created due to his death is difficult to fill up. He prayed for the peace to the departed soul and expressed sympathies with the bereaved families. J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, Rajouri in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr Kewal Koul condoled the sad and tragic demise of Madhavrao Scindia, MP and member of Congress Working Committee in plane crash. The speakers paid rich tributes to the departed leader and recalled his contribution towards the nation as a Union Minister on different portfolios. They said that the nation has lost a very young and dynamic leader who was not only a politician, but played a very active role to uplift different sports adventures. Others who paid tributes to the departed soul included Kamal Bakshi, Chowdhary Qamar Hussain, Virender Malhotra, Anil Chopra, Sanjeev Sharma, Vinod Sawhney, Sanjeev Mahajan, Prithvi Raj Gupta, Raj Bakshi, Jatinder Singh, Arvind Kohli, Tara Chand, David Farooq, Onkar Chogga and Inder Parkash. Congress MLAs Ashok Sharma, Balbir Singh and leaders Garu Ram and Shabir Khan condoled the demise of Mr Scindia and conveyed sympathies to the bereaved families. They said that demise of Mr Scindia is a loss to nation in general and Congress party in particular. They termed Mr Scindia a true parliamentarian. District Congress Committee, Poonch also condoled the demise of Madhavrao Scindia and said that his death is a great loss to the nation in general and Congress party in particular. Begum Zubaida Salaria, MLA and senior leader of National Conference, Women Wing condoled the untimely demise of senior Congress leader Madhav Rao Scindia. She said that he was a true parliamentarian. Manav Seva Samiti, Durga Nagar condoled the sudden demise of Mr Madhavrao Scindia and some others in a plane crash. President of the Samiti Mr P K Pandita expressed grief and shock over the demise of precious lives in this mishap and said that the death of Scindia is a major loss to the country. Provincial president of National Conference Mr Bodh Raj Bali also condoled the demise of Madhavrao Scindia and press personnel. He paid rich tributes to the departed souls and conveyed sympathies to the bereaved families. Congress Legislature Party condoled the untimely demise of Madhavrao Scindia in a meeting held today under the chairmanship of Mr Ashok Sharma, MLA Kalakote. Describing the departed leader as able statesman, straight forward and honest person, he said that his death is a great loss to the India in general and setback to Congress party in particular. Prayers were held for the peace to the departed soul and courage to the family members to bear this irreparable loss. On the sad demise of Madhavrao Scindia in tragic air crash, the staff and management of J&K Dharmarth Trust Jammu expressed profound grief. A two minute silence was also observed by the Trust members for the peace to the departed soul. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) expressed shock over the demise of charismatic Congress leader Mr Madhavrao Scindia in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr B L Suri. Mr Suri said that gap created due to the death of dynamic leader is difficult to fulfil up in general political scenario and particular in Indian National Congress. The meeting also mourned the demise of senior journalists and prayed for the peace to the departed souls. A condolence meeting of Youth Congress Migrant Cell was held under the chairmanship of Mr Shuben Ratna wherein rich tributes were paid to Madhavrao Scindia. The speakers described him as a young and dynamic leader who always worked for the upliftment of the down trodden and poor people. Two minute silence was also observed for the peace to the departed soul. A condolence meeting of Pradesh Congress Committee (I) was held today wherein Mr Opender Karihalu expressed shock and grief over the demise of Madhavrao Scindia. He also conveyed sympathies to the bereaved family. Jammu and Kashmir Trade Union Congress today condoled the demise of Madhavrao Scindia and said that demise of Scindia is a great loss to the country in general and Indian National Congress in particular. Two minute silence was also observed by the workers of the INTUC and sympathies were conveyed to bereaved family. Mr Mangat Ram Sharma, senior Congress leader expressed shock and grief over the demise of Mr Madhavrao Scindia and paid rich tributes to departed soul. He also expressed sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed for the peace to the departed soul. A condolence meeting of Block Congress Committee was held at Vijaypur under the chairmanship of Choudhary Munshi Shah, block president. Mr Gulchain Singh Charak, vice-president PCC and member AICC also attended the meeting. Great shock and grief was expressed over the untimely demise of Madhavrao Scindia. Two minute silence was also observed to pay homage to the departed soul. Senior BJP leaders in a meeting held here today condoled the sad demise of Madhavrao Scindia. Mr Daya Krishan Kotwal expressed shock and grief over the demise of Mr Scindia and prayed for the peace to the departed soul and courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. Pradesh Congress Seva Dal in a meeting condoled the untimely demise of Mr Madhavrao Scindia. Mr Subash Gupta presided over the meeting. Speakers described Mr Scindia as a young dynamic and distinguished parliamentarian and said that his demise has caused irreparable loss to the Congress party. In a condolence meeting, Block Congress Committee, Khour paid homage to Madhavrao Scindia. Speakers said that untimely and tragic demise of Mr Scindia shocked the hearts of Congressmen and has caused a great loss to the party as well as the nation. The meeting prayed for peace to the departed soul in heaven and conveyed deep sympathy to the family members. Shiv Shakti Kala Kender, Bakshi Nagar Jammu today paid homage to Madhavrao Scindia and prayed for the peace to the departed soul and courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. A meeting of Editor’s and Journalist’s Council, Rajouri was held under the chairmanship of Mr Shyam Sood here today wherein grief and shock was expressed over the tragic demise of senior journalists and Congress stalwart Madhavrao Scindia in a plane crash. The members described the death of journalists as well as senior Congress leader as unfortunate and expressed sympathies to the bereaved family. Block Congress Committee, Nowshera today expressed profound shock over the untimely demise of charismatic Congress leader Mr Madhavrao Scindia and conveyed sympathies to the bereaved family. Yuva Lok Jan Shakti, J&K State Unit in a meeting held here today under the chairmanship of Mr Sanjeev Manmotra condoled the demise of Mr Madhavrao Scindia in a plane crash. Two minutes silence was observed in the meeting to pay homage to the departed soul. Block Congress Committee, Sunderbani also condoled the demise of senior Congress leader Mr Madhavrao Scindia. Mirza Abdul Rashid, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha visited the residence of Madhavrao Scindia and placed a wreath on his body. He said that the country has lost a most dynamic leader who was loved and respected by millions of people. A meeting of senior Congress leader of Udhampur namely Balak Ram, Rajinder Advocate, Shashi Manhas, Surinder, Brij Mohan and Savtantar Dev Kotwal was held today wherein rich tributes were paid to the senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia and others in a plane crash. They said that the death of Scindia is a great loss to the nation in general and Congress part in particular. Jammu and Kashmir Nationalist Front in a meeting held here today condoled the demise of senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia and prayed for the peace to the departed soul and courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. |
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Govenror, CM pay tributes to Mahatama Gandhi Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Governor Mr Girish Chandra Saxena and Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah paid glowing tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, on his 132nd birth anniversary. In a separate message, the Governor said that Gandhiji’s leadership of the freedom struggle which culminated in India’s independence left a lasting impact on the people of our country as well as the world. The Mahatma inspired millions of people by his unique concept of non-violent Satyagraha based on the philosophy of Ahimsa and fearless action. Gandhiji’s endeavours for the social and political emancipation of his countrymen particularly the women and other weaker sections, hastened the pace of reforms in our society and the upliftment of the depressed classes.He worked tirelessly for putting an end to untouchability and other social evils from our midst. For the people of the Jammu and Kashmir, Mahatma Gandhi was a source of inspiration and strength in their movement to establish a democratic polity and a just socio-economic order. In turn Gandhiji saw a ray of hope in Kashmir because of its secular and cultural values. Mr Saxena expressed his hope that on the occasion of Gandhiji’s birth anniversary, the people of the State will renew their resolve to cherish and uphold the ideals of the Mahatma for bringing back peace and harmony to the State. In his message, Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah called for a war against the cult of violence that has emerged as the biggest challenge to the civilized world in the 21st century. The Chief Minister said that the Mahatma led the world in its war against racial discrimination with the solitary weapon of non-violence. He left a legacy of high values for generations around the globe to emulate. ‘Now, insanity seems to be taking over reason and logic as lunatic elements are resorting to extreme violence for fulfillment of their ill-conceived and illogic agenda’, he said, adding that violence has engulfed the whole world that has to stand with full might to face this challenge. He referred to the Mahatma’s vision about Kashmir being the ray of hope during traumatic partition of India in 1947 and said this uniqueness of the land of peace and tranquility became an eyesore for Pakistan that unleashed an alien cult of violence to destroy its glorious traditions and the people. The silver lining, however, is that the people of the state have realized the Pak game plan and resolved to fight it with their full might, Dr Abdullah said, adding that this will be the best tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. |
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Governor, Farooq condemn Srinagar terrorist attack Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Governor Mr Girish Chander Saxena and Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah have condemned the terrorist attack on the Legislature Complex here this afternoon. In their separate statements, they described the act as an assault by so-called Jehadi terrorists on our democratic system and institutions. Mr Saxena in his statement said that although the terrorists failed in their evident objective to kill some elected representatives of the people, the car-bomb blast engineered by the terrorists and their indiscriminate firing caused the death of about 26 persons, including six employees of the Assembly and Council. The Governor extended his deep sympathy to the families of the deceased persons and urged for prompt and proper treatment to the injured persons. The Governor hoped that security forces will hunt down the terrorists responsible for this act. Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the attack has come when a global war against terrorism is being structured following terror strikes in US. He said that the brazen assault by terrorists on civilians must shake the world conscience. People are getting killed like mute ducks in Jammu and Kashmir for over a decade without causing any ripple around the globe. Reaffirming Government resolve to fight out cross border terrorism, Dr Abdullah said that today’s attack assumes alarming dimensions as the target of terrorists war the State legislature that is in session currently, he said, described the dastardly act as an attmpt to subtle democratic institutions and destabilizing elected Government. The perpetrators of violence gain strength from Pakistan with their leaders openly supporting terrorism as a ‘Jehad’. ‘It is terrorism perpetrated by a state of Pakistan’, he said while expressing sympathies with the families of those who lost their near and dear ones. He also gave instructions for specialized treatment of those injured. |
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Farooq for augmenting water supply schemes Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today said the Government is endeavouring to upgrade water supply schemes with facilities of filtration plants to meet requirements of growing population in the state. Addressing a delegation of Rafiabad assembly constituency here this afternoon, the Chief Minister said the schemes designed decades ago are unmatched for the increased population now. Therefore, these are required to be upgraded keeping up with the population fed by them, he said, adding that efforts would be made to ensure filtration plants for all the schemes. He reiterated his Government’s commitment to ensure equitable funds for the development of various areas and said no area should nurture a feeling of neglect. Despite financial constraints, an effort is being made to achieve the goal of development with expediting work on various schemes, expanding health and educational network and ensuring basic services to the people, he added. With Panchayats in place now, he said the development effort would receive a fillip as powers are being conferred to these grass root level democratic institutions for fixing priorities and monitoring the functioning of administrative machinery in rural areas. Steps are underway to strengthen Panchayti Raj System to achieve the objectives, Dr Abdullah said. Referring to the cult of violence unleashed from across the border, he said the state has witnessed many storms with colossal loss of life and property. Who knows what would be the fall out of Afghanistan, he wondered, saying that it will certainly leave an impact on the region. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir yearn to live in peace, he added. Mr Mohammad Dilawar Mir, MLA projected the demands of the constituency and sought tehsils status for the area, special recruitment drive for youth in the police force and respite to the people, who suffered due to drought during the past few years. Mr Mir expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for his instructions on Rohama water supply scheme and said that 50 census villages lack adequate water supply. Responding to these demands, the Chief Minister said that grant of tehsils status would be examined earnestly at appropriate level. The Government, he said, will take all possible steps to fulfill the urges and aspirations of the people. While locating various Government offices in a particular area, the centrality of the location would be kept in consideration so that no pocket feels inconvenience, he said. Dr Abdullah assured that the points raised by the delegates and the MLA would be considered and early measures taken for redressing genuine grievances of the people. |
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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today said the State Human Rights Commission is being broad based with establishment of its offices in Jammu, Doda and Rajouri. Replying to supplementaries during question hour in legislative assembly, the Chief Minister said the commission takes immediate cognizance of the complaints about human rights violations for thorough investigations. The cases pertaining to the security forces are referred to the Centre for appropriate action, he said, adding that in several cases punishments have been given against erring personnel. Dr Abdullah said the state is engaged in a war waged by Pakistan that has inducted fidayeens to carry out attacks on security forces that engulfs civilians also who suffer during combat operations. At times, it becomes very difficult to differentiate between friend and a foe. He said the terrorism unleashed by Pakistan has necessitated promulgation of stringent laws as prior to it the security forces would never venture into civilian areas. Referring to allegations on special task force, the Chief Minister said that the moles of Jamat-e-Islami have made their way among informers to mislead the forces for settling their personal scores. He said a structural command for the SPOs is being contemplated making them accountable and improving their functioning. He reiterated the government’s commitment to uphold the human rights and punish those violating these. He said the state is passing through a difficult phase that calls for utmost restraint by all particularly on the face of Pak attempts to create wedge and discord among communities. He expressed optimism about situation turning normal and saying that once peace dawns, all these laws would be dispensed with. Earlier, replying to the main question by Mir Saifullah, the Education Minister, Mr Mohammad Shafi said that complaints about harassment by surrendered militants working with security forces and the police in anti-militancy operations are immediately looked into for appropriate action per law. To supplementary, he said instructions have been issue for dissociating from the operations such persons against whom allegations are established. To another question by Sheikh Abdul Rehman, the Chief Minister said that 2250 persons are reported missing during the past about five years. Most of them are believed to have crossed over to PoK for armed training. He gave district-wise details of the missing and killed persons and said that 57 complaints of custodial deaths have also been received. |
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MLA’s allegations found substantiated Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah today informed legislative assembly that the allegations levelled by Mr Mushtaq Ahmed Kuchey, MLA about the execution of various works executed by Notified Area Committee, Khrew have been substantiated by the investigating agency. Dr Abdullah had announced inquiry into the allegations leveled by Mr Kuchey in the assembly on Friday. In a statement during zero hour, the Chief Minister said that the inquiry has revealed that many works were either found not executed or not executed as per the specifications. According to the physical verification, a portion of drain has been constructed at Dhank Mohalla during 1997-98 but the wall near the graveyard has neither been found constructed nor existent. A four-point latrine block has been constructed near Sabir Saheb Masjid during 1997 but was left halfway without connecting the block with drain as a result of which it has remained non-functional. No repairs have been conducted so far as per the investigation. No repair has been undertaken to latrine at Sheikh Mohalla and the construction of pit and repairs of latrine at Jamia Masjid has not been executed while only a portion of drain near Idgah and Dhank Mohalla has been repaired. The investigation team has not found a single dust bin at the main bazaar, boys higher secondary school and Jamia Masjid. In addition, no repairs have been undertaken on the Panchayat ghar though two shops are under construction near the site. No latrine near police post (PP) Khrew has been constructed. However, as per the department it has been mentioned that payment has not been made in many of these works. With regard to the appointment and the staff strength in Notified Area Committee, Khrew, it has been found that during the period from 1996 till date, no appointment has been made by the NAC, Khrew. However, Director Local Bodies has posted certain new office hands including four junior assistants, one typist, one tax collector and an orderly. |
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Reservation for Pahari
speaking people Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah has said that Government is actively considering for granting reservation status to Pahari speaking people on the pattern of OBC/ST in the State. Responding to the queries of Mr. Mohammad Sahrief Tariq and Mr. Nisar Ahmad during Zero Hour in Legislative Assembly today, the Chief Minister assured that a bill to this effect will be presented in the next session of the Assembly. Chief whip of the National Conference, Mr. Mubarak Gul said that elections of the sitting Assembly were held during the Governors rule and the charges of unfairness is not correct. Mir Ghulam Rasool Naz demanded ex-gratia for the next of kith of a girl who died in Lawaypora during militancy operation. He also demanded relief to drought-hit families and rehabilitation of fire sufferers of his constituency. Mr. Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami demanded Cola for PSU workers and sought budgetary support from the Government for the public sector undertakings. Mr. A. R. Veeri demanded for setting up of Tourist Reception Centre at Anantnag to facilitate Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims, whileas Faqir Mohammad Khan demanded to provide timber for completion of incomplete buildings under Rural development Department in border areas of Gurez tehsil. Mr. Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Mir demanded to develop further the Industrial Growth Centre at Lassipora in Pulwama whileas Ch. Piara Singh demanded office accommodation for Regional Transport Office at Jammu and Srinagar. Mir Saifullah demanded to pressurize the Central Government to accept the resolution passed by the State Assembly for granting autonomy to J&K State. Qazi Jal-ud-Din vehemently criticised the demand for creation of separate State for Jammu voiced by some quarters. Mr Shiv Charan Gupta demanded for creating more job opportunities for educated unemployed and industrial sector. Mr Jagjiveen Lal, Mr G M Jan, Mr Prithvi Chand and Ch Piara Singh also raised various issues during Zero Hour in the Assembly today. |
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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: The Legislative Council today passed a bill regarding vesting of ownership rights to the occupants of State land after paying the cost of land. The resolution to this effect was moved by the Revenue Minister, Mr. Abdul Qayoom. The Minister of State for Agriculture seconded the resolution. Replying the queries raised by various members which include Mr B L Bhat, Mr Brij Mohan, Mr Nazir Ahmad Mir and Mr. Veer Chand Mahasha, the Minister said that the revenue generated in this respect will be utilised for financing power projects in the State. He said there is 10 lakh kanal Government land under the illegal occupation of the people in the State. He said in each district a committee will be constituted to ascertain the prices as per the nature of the occupied land and the occupants will have to pay the same to get ownership rights. Another Bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Forest (Conservation Act 1997) was also passed by the House. The resolution to this effect was moved by the Minister for Forests, Peerzada Ghulam Ahmad and seconded by Revenue Minister, Mr. Abdul Qayoom. The Bill was passed on voice vote. The House also passed a Bill to amend the law relating to Prisons. The Bill was laid by Minister of State for Home and seconded by Revenue Minister. These bills have already been passed by the Legislative Assembly. |
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Ban on SIMI welcomed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 1: Warning some political organisations against misleading the people for their vote politics and vested interests, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) state chief, Dr Rama Kant Dubey today asserted that India was facing a real threat from these pseudo secular organisations. Talking to reporters here this morning, Dr Dubey welcomed the ban on the Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI). He said though the decision is a belated step yet VHP welcomes it as activities of the organisation were inmical to the national unity and integrity. Criticising the pseudo secular political organisations for equating Bajrang Dal (BD), Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS) and VHP with SIMI and demanding ban on them, he said, the SIMI was planning to convert India into an Islamic nation and propagating secessionism while RSS, VHP and BD volunteers have given sacrifices for preserving the unity and integrity of the nation. Dr Dubey said these organisations have always been in front line whenever the nation faced any clamity or external threat to provide the voluntary services to the people and to equate these organisations with the SIMI will be disservice to nation, he asserted. He said why the leaders of these political organisations keep their mouth closed when hundreds of jawans of security forces were killed in Kashmir by terrorists and over three lakh Kashmiri Pandits and Sikhs were forced to flee from the Valley on gun point by terrorists. He said the VHP is deeply concerned over the growing Pan Islamic terrorism which is posing a grave threat to international peace as India has been its main victim as our nation has been facing the Pak sponsored terrorism for over last 12 years in Jammu and Kashmir. He while justifying the Jammu bandh call given by VHP and BD on September 25 said this was done as a pre-emtive move to demoralise the forces who were planning to take out a pro Taliban and pro bin Laden procession here on September 27. Dr Dubey while complimenting the people of the region for showing their total solidarity with the VHP in making the anti -terrorism bandh successful on that day however, lashed out at administration for harassing the VHP and BD volunteers in various parts of the city. He alleged a publicity van of VHP was damaged by police and many volunteers were beaten up ruthlessly. He said the complete bandh observed in Kashmir on September 21 in support of Islamic fundamentalism and terrorism represented by Taliban and other Islamic Jehadis should open the eyes of all towards the danger looming large over the country and to focus attention towards this danger that VHP and BD had given a bandh call on September 25. He said recently parleys were held with a divisional Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen at Kishtwar at the residence of a prominent person and later at Jammu and demanded that Government should make public what was discussed in that meeting. Dr Dubey asked the United States to clarify its position on Kashmir. "The US should clarify whether it still works on Dixon and Frank V Graham plan of dividing the J&K or has changed its stand now", he said. The VHP leader also warned the Government on extending the power curtailment to nine hours a day saying this step is aimed at destroying the Jammu industry. He challenged the authenticity of the Government of collecting the power tariff after curtailing the supply. He said the Jammu people will not tolerate the power cuts and if the decision is not revoked they will take to streets. |
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‘Tap fully vast potential of food processing industry’ Excelsior Correspondent jAMMU, Oct 1: The Union Minister of State for Food Processing, Prof Chaman Lal Gupta has called for fully tapping the vast potential for food processing industry in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a seminar on " Food Processing Industry—Potential for Growth of Jammu and Kashmir" organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry here today, Prof Gupta said that there is scope for generating employment in this sector. The Minister described it is called as sun-rise sector which must be explored to the extent possible. Prof Gupta stated that a National Food Processing policy is being formulated. The food processing units can be set up based on the available raw material like fruit, vegetables and other agriculture products which can by value addition benefit the producers and others. Referring to horticulture, the Minister said that despite increase in production, our produce like apple, cherry, apricot are not deriving desired profitability to the growers and industry. He suggested that in view of high production in Jammu and Kashmir State, there must be a definite apple policy. The Kashmir’s apple held sway in the market in the past but presently has been overtaken by Himachal Pradesh. The apple and other fruit, vegetables should be fully exploited by value additions. The Minister said that due encouragement and incentives would be provided to those who take to setting up viable modern food processing. He asked the entrepreneurs to come forward to chart a new course of food processing industry in the State. The quality and reasonable prices of products have to be ensured to capture the market, he added. It was disclosed that 18 Food Parks have been proposed to be set up across the country. Of this, one is being set up at Khunmoh in Kashmir Valley for which Rs two crores have already been advanced. Mr Ram Sahai, chairman, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said proper industrial culture must he built up in J&K State. In difficult circumstances, the industry must be provided incentives and basic inputs like regular power ensured. The CCI chief said given opportunities the enterpreneurs will take to food processing industry as well. Mr M S Pandit, Principal Secretary, Industry and Commerce stated that due to availability of raw material and manpower there is vast potential for development of food processing industry in Jammu and Kashmir. The Government is keen to promote this industry, he said and added that concrete measures are proposed to be taken in this regard. Mr Pandit stated that Food Park in Kashmir Valley will be set up within 18 months. It is proposed to open one such Food Park in Jammu as well, he said adding that SIDCO has been asked to draw up suitable scheme in this regard. Mr K K Vyawahere, Director, Union Ministry of Food Processing, in his presentation illustrated with slides gave details of the schemes which hold promise in this field. He enumerated the various promotional schemes in the food processing industry. Mr J K Mengi, a leading industrialists pleaded that proper industrial climate must be created in Jammu and Kashmir for the smooth growth of food processing or other industrial units. He said an awareness campaign must be launched to attract entrepreneurs in this venture. Mr Kuldeep Dogra, another industrialist, demanded a fair deal to small industrial unit holders. If even the basic input like power is not available how can industry prosper, he asked and called for regular supply of electricity to industry which is suffering great losses. Prof G Q Angral of Agriculture University gave details of work being done by the varsity in this sphere. There was question-answer session in which those attending the seminar participated. A large number of members of Chamber of Commerce and Industry, senior officers of Industry Department and prominent citizens. Mr Rajendra Motial, secretary general of CCI conducted the proceedings and Mr G Q Wani, Managing Director, SIDCO presented vote of thanks. |
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Zero Hour in Legislative Council Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 1: The issue regarding the alleged firing by security forces on a mob in Pattan and killing of a youth at Shopian surfaced in the Legislative Council today. Urging the Government to protect the innocent people, Mr. Mohammad Yousuf Taing said that the Home Ministry should ensure that such incidents may not take place in future and the security forces be asked to refrain from committing excesses on the civilian population while carrying anti-militancy operation. Mr. G. N. Saheen urged the Government to initiate judicial inquiry into the said incidents. Mr. Javed Hussain Shah and Mr. Bhushan Lal Bhat expressed shock and grief over the fire incidents at Sopore which claimed lives of 15 person and property worth crore. They demanded ex-gratia for the deceased and compensation for the gutted property. Mr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat demanded filling up of posts of Surgeon and Physician lying vacant at Sub-district Hospital in tehsil Gandho. Mr. Ikhalq Khan demanded resumption of work on Parnia power project in Poonch. Whileas Mr. Qari Mohammad Aziz demanded provision for a Sarai for the people of Ladakh region who come for treatment to Srinagar. He said a building was earlier alloted for this purpose but the same has been presently occupied by the security forces. Mr. Brij Bhushan urge the Government to expedite the process of constituting dock committees to protect tribes that move to higher reaches during summer months in Doda district. He said the constituting of such committees was promised by the Government following the killing of some shepherds in Doda district. |
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Rs. 39.32 cr relief package for border migrants Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 1: The Minister of State for Home Mr. Khalid Najeeb Sohrawardhy today assured the House that the border migrants will be looked after well within the available financial resources. He said due to continued firing and shelling across the international border and the line of control, a stream of migration had taken place from various border villages in Jammu division. The Government sanctioned a comprehensive relief package for these people keeping in view of their hardships. Responding to the queries raised by various members during the session about the problems faced by the displaced persons of the border areas due to firing across the border, Mr. Sohrawardhy said displaced persons are being provided 9 kgs of free ration per head per month, 10 litres of free of cost of kerosene oil per family per month, cash assistance of Rs 200/- per head per month. In addition ex-gratia of Rs one lakh each to the next kin of the persons killed in border firing and 50 per cent ex-gratia relief of the loss caused to the immovable property upto Rs 0ne lakh besides free medicare facilities will also be provided to the migrant people. The Minister of State clarified that the relief is available only to those families who are living in the 5km belt along the LoC and between the international border and the Ditch-cum-Bund along the international border. He said the relief package is admissible to those families who are not able to cultivate their lands or who have lost their crops for lack of care in the border belt. The relief is also available to landless labourers residing in the mentioned border belt. The Minister said that the relief package is funded by the Central Government by debit to the National Defence Fund and the security related Budget of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which is extended from time to time as many families continued to remained displaced. At present, it is valid upto October 31, 2001. Mr. Najeeb said that as many as 83804 persons of 18582 families belongs to 62 border villages of Jammu division migrated from May 1999, have been provided relief and shelter, whileas 2625 families were provided tented accommodation in Devipur, Bomol and Thandichoi of Akhnoor tehsil. Others are living under their own arrangement. He said most of the families have now returned to their homes and only 43703 persons of 11044 families are presently migrant, which are getting provided relief assistance. The Minister said that the State Government has released Rs 39.32 crores and the amount was provided to various agencies for meeting various expenses of the relief package. Of this, Rs 32.32 crores were utilized so far providing basic amenities to the migrant people. This includes cash assistance of Rs. 16.45 crore, Rs. 12.01 crore for free rations and kerosene oil, Rs. 1.84 crore as cost of tents, Rs. 0.56 crore provided for water supply, Rs. 0.73 crore for electricity, Rs. 0.22 crore for raising temporarily toilets, Rs. 0.33 crore on other expenses and Rs. 0.18 crore as ex-gratia relief. Mr. Soharwardhy said 16 person died whileas 37 injured due to the border firing since 1999 in the effected villages, who’s next of kin were provided ex-gratia of Rs. one lakh each and Rs. 5000 to each injured. He said survey of immovable property is be conducted and the relief at the rate of 50 per cent of the loss to each family will be paid subject to ceiling of Rs one lakh. The Minister said that no temporary displacement has taken place in districts of Poonch and Rajouri. However, the relief packages admissible to victims of border firing and shelling in the 5 km belt of Poonch and Rajouri districts as well, who fall within the criteria specified in the sanctioned relief package. |
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