Daily Excelsior.........State

BSP opposes Resettlement Act, Autonomy
NC’s rigging process in J&K already
commenced: Rehman

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: State unit of Bahujan Samaj Party while lauding the role of Election Commission, vis-a-vis Gujarat Assembly elections, strongly condemned the role of NDA Government alleging that when half of its Ministers are involved in one scandal or the other, the brow beating of the Election Commission by the BJP tantamounts to the denigration of highest constitutional institution for petty political considerations is dangerous to the values and ethos of largest democracy in the world.

Addressing a press conference here today Mr Sheikh Abdul Rehman, party chief in the J&K pointed out that APHC is well known for its contradictions in which people of different thoughts are taking refuge. The Kashmir Committee headed by prominent Jurist Ram Jethmelani can not expect much hopes from APHC as it lacks representative character and as such ignoring other mainstream political parties will simply prove counter productive.

Referring to the Kashmir issue Mr Rehman suggested that a round table dicsussion with all political parties can converge on some conclusion with regard to Kashmir issue. He pointed out that accepting mistakes by Prime Minister on Aug 15 address with regard to Kashmir and the elections process there, has given lot of hopes to the people about fairness in the process being initiated but unfortunately, mass scale transfers after announcement of election schedule in J&K and increasing misuse of machinery by ruling NC people has indicated that process of rigging has already started by the ruling regime headed by Dr Farooq Abdullah.

The BSP demands elections under Governor’s rule in J&K and this process should be made mendatory in all the states and atleast four months before elections, Governor rule be imposed to ensure free and fair elections. Therefore, the Centre should take concrete steps to restore the shaken confidence of masses.

Responding to a question the BSP leader said that party opposes trifurcation demand and also against the Autonomy move of the National Conference. But the Party is in favour of decentralisation of powers down up to gross root level which can remove the imbalances and regional & ethnical conflicts in the State. The Party condemns the National Conference for exploiting people on the issue of Resettlement Act and do not give it any importance as it has no basis and can never be achieved without the consent of Government of India.

Forecasting status of future Assembly, the BSP chief said that it will be a hung Assembly this time, bringing an era of coalition Government in the State which will lay foundation for judicious treatment on the principle of natural justice to all the regions and different sections of society. The Party has finalised candidates for Ist phase of elections and others will be decided soon after discussion with the Central Party chief, Mr Kanshi Ram, he added.

3316 terrorists surrender, 1052 killed

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Aug 19: Realizing the fact that cross-border terrorism has brought only miseries to the peace loving people in the state, as also the fact that there is no more room for the Pak- backed merchants of violence in our society, more and more terrorists are surrendering to the authorities.

Drawing a comparison between the period ending 15th August this year and corresponding period of the last year, a police spokesman to-day said that 119 terrorists have surrendered this year against 49 last year. He attributed the increasing number of surrenders including those of hard core terrorists to their disillusionment with violence. A realization has clearly dawned on the terrorists that the gun culture is self-destructive and that it is subserving the interests of their mentors and exploiters operating from across the border. Some surrenderees admitted they were indoctrinated, saying the continued turmoil in the state ensured the survival of the establishment across, the spokesman said, adding that put together 3316 terrorists have surrendered so far since the start of militancy.

Equipped with very vital intelligence inputs with regard to the presence, movement and hideouts of militants by local population, the target oriented operations launched by police/security forces have brought forth fruitful results not only in the elimination of militants but also in the recovery of arms and ammunition.

The spokesman disclosed that 1052 terrorists have been killed so far this year. While the rate of elimination has remained almost the same with corresponding period of last year (1059), there has been substantial increase in the arrest of terrorists this time. He revealed that 429 terrorists have been apprehended by ending 15th August this year as against 334 apprehended during the corresponding period last year. As the motif of terrorists is to create scare by bloodshed and destruction, they have killed 634 and injured 945 innocent civilians this year.

Seeking to deter the voters from taking part in elections, the terrorists continue to create scare, albeit unsuccessfully, through posters and other threatening means in the minds of people, the spokesman said. The Police Chief, Mr. A. K. Suri, he said has made it amply clear that nobody will be allowed to stop people from exercising their right of enfranchisement.

The spokesman further said that though there has not been much decline in militant violence, the round-the-clock surveillance, patrolling, random checks and attacking the terrorists on specific tips off, have nevertheless foiled the terrorists’ designs. He cited the recent event free Independence Day functions throughout the state as a proof of the high degree of alertness as exhibited by police and security forces in unison.

There has also been fair increase in the recovery of arms and ammunition. By ending 15th August this year,1012 series of AK rifles, 1179 kilograms of RDX and explosive material and 317 wireless sets have been recovered as against the recovery of 880 AK rifles, 651 Kgs.of explosive material and 291 wireless sets effected during the corresponding period last year.

In addition, the spokesman said that during the current year so far 1703 grenades/ hand grenades, 522 rifle grenades, 68 anti-tank grenades, 28 anti-personnel mines, 18 anti-tank mines,17 mines , 31 mortars, 33 rocket bombs, 97 rockets/RPG rockets, 91 RPG boosters, 409 UBGL grenades, 41 mortar shells, 151 IEDs , 15 IED gas cylinders, 23 pencil bombs and 16 time pencils besides 219 pistols/revolvers, 33 RPGs ,7 SLRs, 8 Pika guns, 24 rocket launchers,11 renade launchers, 4 anti-tank guns, 4 sniper rifles, two UMGs and huge quantity of ammunition have been recovered from terrorists.

Union Bank of India offers public issue
of 18 cr equity share

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Union Bank of India has come out with its first ever public issue of 18 crores equity shares of Rs 10 each for cash at a premium of Rs 6, aggregating Rs 288 crores.

While addressing the gathering of investors, customers and the prominent citizens here this evening, Mr G S Sodi—AGM of the Bank disclosed that the maiden issue, which is being made to augment the long term resources of the Bank and to meet its future capital adequacy requirements is slated to open tomorrow (Aug 20) and close on August 28, 2002.

He said the Bank whose entire equity is at present held by the Government of India, is offering the issue to the public through the fixed price route to the extent of 39.2 per cent. The Government continue to hold the remaining 60.8 % of the equity of the Bank after the issue.

Mr Sodi further claimed that 83 year old Bank has the track record of profitability since its inception and is among the largest banks in India with total business of Rs 61,177 crores. The Bank’s deposit base stood at Rs 39,974 cr and its total advances at Rs 21,383 crores as on March 31, 2002. As on that date the Bank’s capital adequacy was at the level of 11.07 per cent as against the RBI prescribed requirement of 9 per cent.

The net asset value (NAV) of the Bank’s share as on March 31, 2002 was Rs 47. Post issue, the NAV ( on the basis if an issue price of Rs 16 per share) will be Rs 39.54. Over the last five years, the Bank’s deposits have grown from Rs 23,055.63 crores in 1997-98 to Rs 39,974 crores in 2001-02, which shows a compounded annual growth rate of Rs 14.53 per cent. During the same period, advances grew from Rs 10,276 crores to Rs 21,383 crores, reflecting a compounded annual growth rate of 17.34 per cent.

He disclosed that Bank registered a 12.04 per cept growth in total income in financial year 2002 as compared to last year. Total income went up to Rs 4502 cr in 2002 from Rs 4052 cr during previous year while net profit rose to Rs 301.33 crores from Rs 180. 29 crores during this period , registering an increase of 67 per cent. The Bank has also launched a co-branded credit card with a Master Card affiliation. Cash Management Service has also been started in 34 centres and Depository Services in Mumbai through a tie-up with Central Depository Services Limited. As on March 31 this year the Bank had 2023 branches , 47 Satellite branches and 147 extension counters . 61 branches are set up to cater to the needs of industrial finance, non-resident Indians, small scale industry, specialised trading and personal banking. Out of the total, 1304 branches have been computerised.

Farmers hold dharna at Samba

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Hundreds of Kissans who assembled at Samba, submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner Jammu through the tehsildar Samba demanding immediate declaration of the area as drought-affected.

In the memorandum Kissans mentioned that inadequate and delayed rainfall in the area has caused agricultural drought ands it may lead to hydrological drought in the near future. It added that during the sowing season, the soil moisture was absent and the bulk of arable land remained without sowing and the deficient rainfall adversely the areas, where the crop was sown.

The farmers submitted further that problem compounded when the border area people were not allowed to use irrigation water where such facilities were available.

They demanded that tehsil Samba be declared drought affected because much than 50 percent of the crop has been damaged which is required level to declare an area drought affected. They called immediately starting programmes like ‘food for work’, food and cash relief to the affected farmers, suspension of revenue collection and allied tariffs realization, stalling of recovery of loans and waiving off of interests on loans.

The memorandum demanded that sufficient funds be allotted for proper development of water bodies, food for work programme be linked with repair, preserve and improve water bodies like ponds, artificial lakes and other water reservoirs and to develop water sheds in the area.

They pointed out that subsidy on fertilizer and seed announced for the previous drought has not been given to the affected farmers till date and demanded that the same be made available to them without any further delay.

The memorandum also pointed out that about 4000 farmer families of Samba were left out while distributing relief for the previous relief. Supplementary list was prepared but it had been awaiting approval of the competent authority as yet and demanded that left-over families may also be covered under the previous relief.

Kissan Union also decided to launch a strong agitation in case of further delay in taking appropriate measures to address crisis emerged out of the drought.

Cong workers injured in police cane-charge

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Aug 19: At least four Congress workers were slightly injured when police used batons to disperse activists of Jammu and Kashmir Youth Congress when they were trying to take out a procession today demanding imposition of President’s rule in the States.

A Congress spokesman said about 100 party workers led by youth wing president Mohammad Amin Bhat and general secretary Mushtaq Ahmad Bazaz were dispersed and chased away by police soon after they came out from their headquarters to proceed towards the electronic media centres.

Demanding imposition of Governor’s rule in the State ahead of elections, they raised slogans against local stations of Doordarshan and Radio Kashmir, Srinagar for their alleged "black out" of the news of congress activities in the State.

A Congress spokesman while condemning the police action said four party workers were injured in the lathicharge.

The policemen also snatched the banners and flags from the protestors, he said.

A police spokesman, however, said mild lathicharge was used against the Congress activists as they tried to take out the procession in violation of prohibitory orders inforce in the city.

Movement for re-organisation of J&K state
gaining momentum

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Squarely blaming Farooq Government, Mr Shri Kant Joshi, Akhil Bharti Prachar Pramukh, RSS, said in National Conference is responsible for discrimination and lack of development works in Jammu and Ladakh regions. Even a large segment of population in the Valley is against the dynastic ruling family for their ills.

Speaking at a seminar on "Reorganisation of State of Jammu and Kashmir- Why" organised by Vishwa Samwad Kendra, here this evening, Mr Joshi said the movement for re-organising the state is gaining momemtum. There must be two states of entire Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley as also Union Territory of Ladakh. The move, he said is for meeting the aspirations of the people in all the three distinct regions.

The RSS leader said that there is no basic difference between Dr Farooq Abdullah and the separatist Hurriyat Conference leaders. Though they speak in different voices but their objective are the same, he charged.

Calling for maximum voting during the upcoming elections, he said the NC must be routed out.

Mr Shree Kumar, president, J&K State Morcha stated that past mistakes have to be rectified and the state re-organised for meeting people’s democratic aspirations and developmental needs. The morcha will enlist active public participation in struggle and achieve the objective, he stressed.

Ms Prem Lata Gupta spoke about the growing public response for re-organisation of the state.

Mr K R Gupta, vice chairman, Trikuta Samwad Kendra, while presenting vote of thanks underlined the need for relentless struggle for re-organisation of the state to end discrimination and injustice perpetrated for past over 50 years against Jammu and Ladakh.

Dr OP Mengi, Sangchalak, RSS, was present. Besides, a number of prominent citizens social activists and academicians attended the seminar.

Goswamy inaugurates music system in SMGS Blood Bank

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Medical College principal Dr H L Goswamy today inaugurated ‘music system for blood donors’ in the Blood Bank at SMGS hospital.

Dr Goswamy lauded the innovative idea of installing music system in the Blood Bank, which was first of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir. SMGS Superintendent Dr Rakesh Khajuria and SMGS Blood Bank Incharge Dr T R Raina also spoke on the occasion.

The music system was donated by a citizen Roshan Lal on the persuasions of Dr Raina. A set of cassettes was presented by Anil Padha and Sureshtha Khajuria of Young Blood Association.

Dr Raina said the music system will keep the blood donors in good mood and reduce their tension, especially those who donate blood for the first time.

Dr Kum Kum Sharma, Dr Pardeep Khajuria, Dr Kamaljit Singh and Dr Gudran Sharma were also present on the occasion.

Police organises seminar

Excelsior Correspondent

NOWSHERA, Aug 19: A seminar on the topic "policing society—role of the citizens" was held here which was organised on behalf of J&K Police by Mr S S Bijral, DIG Poonch-Rajouri range and Benam Tosh SDPO Nowshera. The DIG also gave away to the best speakers.

According to a release as many as 15 speakers from different schools of Nowshera participated in the seminar which was attended by a large number of students, teachers, heads of the institutions and other officers of tehsil.

Mr Bijral also inaugurated three-day tournament organised by the District Youth Services and Sports Department Rajouri at Nowshera. The first three prizes of Rs 3000, Rs 2000 and Rs 10-00 were bagged by Charanjeev Kour of New National Public School Nowshera, Amrit Paul Singh of Government High School Nonial and Deepti Nagyal of Government Higher Secondary School Nowshera respectively.

Besides four consolation prizes consisting of Oxford Dictionaries were bagged by Sangita Sharma, Hitesh Kumar, Shivani Sharma and Stuti Sharma of Girls High School Nowshera, New National Public School Nowshera, Government High School Nowshera and Government Higher Secondary School Nowshera respectively. Mr Rajan Datt, Assistant Commandant RPF, Sunil Badyal, JU Student and Rakesh Kumar, PRT, were the judges.

In his address DIG Bijral exhorted the students to be the active partners of police so as to establish righteousness and destroy evil in the society.

Chief Secretary addresses KAS Probationers

Excelsior Correspondent

Udhampur, Aug 19: The Chief Secretary, Mr. I.S. Malhi advised the KAS probationers that while growing in their profession, they should consider themselves as member of the society to ensure respect for human values.

The Chief Secretary was speaking in his inaugural address to 70 KAS officers for week-long training at the Sher-i-Kashmir Police Training Academy, Udhampur, here this morning. The course has been sponsored by the IMPA.

Mr Malhi said that the training was important to infuse and develop better quality and competence among the young officers and the training being received by them at different levels would provide them an opportunity to gain varied experience in running the administration in a befitting manner. He exhorted them to learn their job fully wherever they are posted so as to enable them to be competent and independent in taking decisions and they do not have to feel dependent on their subordinates.

Mr. Malhi said that while growing in their profession, they should keep their ego and inhuman attitudes at bay and emphasized that no quality is better than to remain humble and polite with every one.

Taking a dig at the growing materialistic life and achievements in the society, Mr. Malhi said that there was an imperative need to improve and develop the society by inculcating social and moral values by our actions which is the real strength for a developed society.

The Chief Secretary said that information technology is making rapid strides so unless "You update your knowledge with day to day advancement in Science and Information Technology", you would lag behind in delivering the goods and would not be able to meet the challenges of the 21st century. He underlined the importance for remaining physically and mentally sound and healthy for the officers which enables them to be self-confident and active in performing their duties efficiently and effectively. He advised them not to be influenced from any body for doing wrong things while taking decisions and delivering judgements and they should not have malafied intention behind any action, he added.

While laying stress on maintaining integrity, Mr. Malhi asked the officers that only after going through the details and facts of any case, they should form their opinion to avoid humiliation later on.

Recalling his experience of first KAS batch taken out from the State, he said that only one KAS lady officer was included in it where as one-third of KAS trainee officers are now females which shows positive change taking place in the society. He further stated that there was no hostel facility at that time but now hostel facilities have been provided at Srinagar and Jammu which provide them opportunity to develop alround personality in living together with inmate officers hailing from different areas and communities.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Director of the Academy, Dr. Ashok Bhan said that the young trainee officers will be apprised of the security scenario and response of Jammu and Kashmir Police besides providing interaction with uniformed services. They will be introduced with the command structure and functioning of the Academy. The highlights of the course during the training included a panel discussion on " Relation between Magistracy and Police" and a number of demonstrations in out-door activities.

Among others, Additional Director General CID, Mr. Kuldeep Khuda, Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur and other senior officers of Police department and IMPA were also present on the occasion.

JK Bank signs MoU with IL&FS to provide
equity trading facility

Excelsior Correspondent

NEW DELHI, Aug 19: Jammu and Kashmir Bank today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IL&FS, to provide equity trading facility to its clients.

The Bank has entered into an agreement with the Investment India Limited— a retail initiative of IL&FS for Investment Advisory, Brokering Services and distribution of Financial products.

Investment, with its expertise in equity execution services and as business license holder of both NSE and BSE would be the transaction medium for the Bank’s clients and J&K Bank with its strong network of branches, will provide its infrastructure and the two will share the revenue.

A Bank release issued here said that the facility of trade execution would be provided at Delhi Depositoy Centre of J&K Bank to start with and thereafter rolled out to other cities. Future plans include involving FT, India’s leading FT solutions company, to play the role of technology partner to provide an integrated platform for both the exchanges in all segments.

Mr MY Khan, Chairman of J&K Bank on the occasion said :"we have entered into this agreement with the objective of widening our portfolio to product offerings to our clients. This is an important step in our endeavor to offer full service investment solutions to our clients and a reflection of the Bank’s commitment to transform itself into a financial supermarket and converting its DP services Centre into a capital market hub.

Commenting on the tie-up, Mr Ravi Parthasarthy, Chairman, Investment India Limited said: "we are pleased to be associated with J&K Bank. We believe this is an important step in banks offering a complete range of services to their clients and are please that J&K bank has chosen us to add value to their client relationship".

Later in the day, the Chairman of the Bank inaugurated the CDSL operations of the Bank at Cannaught Place, New Delhi. The Bank is already a participant with NSDL. The Bank is also offering the most competitive loan scheme against shares to its clients.

Lt Gen Brar takes over command of 16-Corps

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Lt General T P S Brar today assumed the command of prestigious 16-Corps.

An alumni of the National Defence Academy, Lt General Brar (YSM), was commissioned into the elite Ist Maratha light infantry on June 15, 1966. He took part in 1971 Indo-Pak war and later commanded his battalion with distinction in Sri Lanka as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force, for which he was awarded the Yudh Sewa Medal.

A graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Lt Gen Brar has held various staff, instructional and command appointments which include a four year tenure at the school of Infantry at Warminster in UK. He has been a commando instructor and has also served in the Military Operation Directorate at Army Headquarters.

The General Officer has been an instructor at the Defence Service Staff College. He has commanded an Infantry Brigade. Prior to his appointment as Additional Director General, National Cadet Corps, he was General Officer Commanding of a Mountain Division, which was engaged in combating insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir.

Art of Living course being held in Jammu

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: The much talked about art of living course is once again being conducted in the city at Lakshmi Sabagarh Hall Karan Market, here by Ms Kavita Chandra Thakur, a teacher from Delhi.

This six day breathing cum awareness workshop eliminates stress from the system paving way for a joyful vibrant stress free life.

The uniqueness of this programme according to a spokesman of the Organization for Art of Living is that it integrates modern methods with ancient spiritual methods to improve the mind body and spirit.

The art of living course has been taken by more than two million in over 130 countries, he said adding, the programme is now being conducted on regular basis in Srinagar, Kupwara, Baramulla, Leh, Udhampur, Katra as well as in army and district jails. Recently it has been conducted at Baglihar Hydel Power Project, Chanderkote in Ramban Tehsil.

The participants are taught through Pranayama, meditation, yoga besides other exercises.

He said the Sudershan Kriya is the unique breathing technique developed through the course. This powerful gentle energizer awakes every cell in the body resulting in the elimination of toxins and negative emotions from the body before they manifest as disease. This Kriya brings the person back into harmony.

He said the Art of Living Foundation is a charitable Trust which spreads its teachings through a net work of volunteers.

Shafi for revamping the technical education
sector in the state

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Aug 19: The Minister for Education, Mr. Mohammad Shafi today at SKICC visited the 5-day workshop regarding the implementation of World Bank assisted technical education project aimed at upgradation of technical education in the State.

Speaking on the occasion the Minister stressed the need for effective implementation of the project with an emphasis on quality enhancement of faculties of Government Polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes. There is an utter need to revamp the technical education sector in the state and to enable the students to cope up with the present global technical scenario, he added.

Mr. Shafi said courses have to be revised in a manner to make them market oriented and help the diploma holders to meet the challenges of the present e-age. They must be well acquainted with the use and application of the latest technology.

The workshop is being attended by officers from National Project Implementation Unit, representatives of Educational Consultant India Limited, Government of India undertaking, ITI Chandigarh Faculty, besides the State Government Officers connected with the Polytechnic Education. The technical sessions of the workshop are conducted in the Government Polytechnic for Women, Srinagar and will last till 23rd of August.

The Central Project Advisor NPIU, Mr. Mishra in his address expressed his satisfaction with the tremendous work done by the project authorities particularly in the field of civil works, procurement of equipments, books, etc. He, however, suggested an improvement in the faculty development in consultation with the ITI Chandigarh, the academic consultants of the State.

The Commissioner Secretary, Education, Mrs Sonali Kumar, the Secretary Technical Education, Mr. Basharat Ahmad Dar, Director Technical Education, Prof. Masooda Yasin, Project Coordinator, SPIU, Mr. Ajaz A. Kakroo, Managing Director, JKPCC, Mr. Zalpuri, Prof. V. P. Puri of ITI Chandigarh alongwith Principals and Faculty members of Polytechnics were present on the occasion.

BJP vice-president for deferring elections

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Demanding postponement of the ensuing Assembly elections, the vice-president of the Pradesh Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Mr Kuldeep Raj Gupta today said that situation was not conducive for holding polls in the violence plagued State.

Addressing a press conference, Mr Gupta said that law and order situation has been deteriorating in entire State in general and twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri in particular. He further said that a large number of terrorists have managed to sneak to Thanamandi, Darhal, Gambhir Mugla, Manjakote, Baflaiz and other areas of Poonch and Rajouri districts. "In the prevailing circumstances conducting of free and fair elections is look an impossible task", he said and urged the authorities to post-pone the elections and improve law and order situation in these areas.

"Instead of going for elections, Government should take appropriate step to contain terrorist activities in the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri", he said.

"Pakistan is hell bent to disrupt election process in Jammu and Kashmir and terrorists active in militancy plagued areas will create violence during election process", he warned and said that it was duty of the State Government to make atmosphere conducive for holding elections".

BJP vice-president said that State unit of BJP has informed the Centre about deteriorating law and order situation in State in general and Poonch and Rajouri in particular.

Highlighting woes of the displaced border people, Mr Gupta demanded that polling booths must be established in those camps where displaced people have been camping.

Appreciating efforts of the Election Commission of India to depute officials from outside the State for conducting polls, Mr Gupta demanded that local employees should not be involved in the election process.

BJP leader claimed that there was a strong wave in favour of BJP in both Poonch and Rajouri districts.

Kamaal for patronizing local industry

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Aug 19 : The Industries and Commerce Minister, Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamaal has called for strict adherence of Government instructions regarding purchases in various Government departments from Government Undertakings like Jammu ad Kashmir Industries Limited (JKI) and Small Scale Industrial Development Corporation (SICOP) adding that goods manufactured by Government undertakings should be purchased directly without flouting open tenders for such items. This, he said, was vital for patronizing local industry and improving financial status of small scale industries in the state.

Speaking at the 136th meeting of the Board of Directors of Jammu and Kashmir Industries Limited here today, the Minister asked the management to continue its efforts to motivate various Government departments particularly those involved in bulk purchases like police, fire services, JKPCC and development authorities for getting supply orders. The Minister also suggested for devicing a viable mechanism so that Government departments are able to place supply orders well in advances to avoid delays in payments and delivery of supply orders. He said focus of marketing strategy should be forwards major purchasing agencies.

The Minister also asked for conducting internal audits to avoid financial mis-management.

Dr. Kamaal asked the management of the JKI to formulate a comprehensive and integrated golden handshake scheme for the benefits of employees of those units which are economically non-feasible. He said the corporation should redouble its efforts to set up a sound economic base. He said concrete steps need to be taken to revive and promote the heritage industries like silk industry in the State.

The meeting was informed that the sale and production level in the various units of the JKI have shown considerable improvement during the first three months of the current fiscal.

The Financial Commissioner, Finance, Mr. J. A. Khan, Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce, Mr. K. B. Pillia, Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. Vijay Bakaya, Commissioner Secretary Bureau of Public Undertaking, Mr. Chaman Lal, Secretary Industries and Commerce, Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Malik and Managing Director, JKI, Mr. R. K. Handa were also present in the meeting.

Chartered Accountants organise one day seminar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: J&K Branch of Northern India Regional Council of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India organised a one day seminar on Information Technology here on Saturday.

According to a release, the guest speakers were senior members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, New Delhi. The programme commenced with lighting of traditional lamp by the Chairman of J&K Branch of NIRC of ICAI Mr Vipen Seth. It was followed by the welcome address.

The Ist technical session was on time management- a necessity for professionals. The faculty for this was Mr S S Sharma, member Northern India Regional Council of ICAI. The session was chaired by Mr Manmohan Juneja, Registrar of Companies J&K.

The second technical session which was deliberated by Mr Vinod Jain Central Council member of the Institute on emerging opportunities and challenges in Information technology for the professionals was an eye opener for the professionals. This session was chaired by Mr O P Garg, a senior member of J&K branch.

The third and the final session was on communication skills—a challenging task ahead again by Mr S S Sharma. It was chaired by Mr K B Sharma, a senior member of J&K branch. The dias was shared by the office bearers of the members of executive committee of the branch. Mr K B Sharma proposed the vote of thanks at the concluding.

DIG BSF Shekhawat awarded President’s police medal

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Mr G S Shekhawat, DIG (Operations) of Border Security Force, Rajouri has been awarded President’s Police Medal for his meritorious services as a recognition to his outstanding qualities of leadership, professionalism and impeccable record of service.

Mr Shekhawat joined BSF as Assistant Commandant in the year 1971 after doing his Post Graduation in Philosophy. His first assignment as an officer was command of a company in Pak territory during 1971 war with Pakistan in Rajasthan sector. In 1973 he was selected to lead the joint delegation of CPOs and State Police Organisation to Hot Spring in Siachen region.

Having excelled in various training courses Mr Shekhawat was picked up as Weapon Instructor in the Central School of Weapon and Tactics at Indore. In the year 1985, the officer was selected for deputation in the National Security Guard, the elite force of the country as Squadron Commander. While in NSG he participated in all important operations including "Operation Black Thunder". Later he was assigned the task of looking after the security of VIPs where he was responsible for providing direct security cover to six cabinet Ministers including the Home Minister in recognition for which he was awarded Police Medal for Meritorious Services on the eve of Independence Day, 1991.

On his repatriation from NSG he took over the command of BSF Battalion deployed in the highly militancy infested area of Batmaloo in Srinagar in 1992. The unit did exceedingly well under his command.

On promotion to the rank of Additional DIG in December 1999, he took over the charge of DIG CI (Orperations) Rajouri, again the highly militant infested sector. During this tenure as sector commander he planned and led numerous anti-militancy operations liquidating a large number of hard core militants including foreign mercenaries. The officer was awarded with Commendation Roll of Chief of the Army Staff for his leading the operations. With personal efforts and dedication, he got four militants surrendered at Rajouri and also recovered huge cache of Arms and ammunition including 82 mm Mortars which was the largest recovery of the decade.

Bhagat for setting up more polling stations

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 18: BJP state secretary and MLA Ramban, Mr Bali Bhagat has demanded setting up of more polling booths in the constituency to facilitate the voters who have to cover more than 6 kms on foot to cast their votes.

In a press statement issued here today, Mr Bhagat appealed to the Election Commission of the India to intervene in the matter and to give direction for setting up additional polling stations at Kundi, Gagla, Banzal, Siro, Alsi, Chander Bhatan, Papriya, Upper Sawani, Jattar and Baddhar.

He further stressed that all those voters who have migrated from Doda district due to militancy and are putting up in Udhampur and Jammu be provided an opportunity to cast their votes in these towns as has been arranged for Kashmiri migrants.

Free Medical camp organised at Ramgarh

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 18: A three-day medical camp was organised at Govt Higher Secondary School Ramgarh by army from August 16 to 18.

As per a release, a dedicated team of army and civil doctors offered their services and expertise in providing relief to a number of ailing ex-servicemen and others. Free medicines were also distributed among poor and needy patients.

Prof Sharma inaugurates Sanskrit week

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: The week long Sanskrit celebrations in connection with Sanskrit Week by Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan (Deemed University) Ranbir Campus, Jammu were inaugurated by Prof R R Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Jammu University at Shastri Nagar today. The function was presided over by Dr G Ganganna, Principal, Ranbir Campus, Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, Jammu.

While inaugurating the function, Dr Sharma congratulated the staff and students of the Sansthan on being declared a Deemed University and expressed his pleasure that the building of the Sansthan is coming up at the cost of Rs 10 crore. He said that like the Egyptian, Greek and Persian civilizations, the Indian civilization had too made a significant contribution in the progress and development of humanity and Sanskrit had played a very important role in it.

He also mentioned that Sanskrit had been found to be suitable for computers and therefore its grammar should be modernized and linked to linguistics. He also pointed out that the University of Jammu was not lagging behind so far the development of Sanskrit is concerned and as such it was one of the 22 universities chosen to have a Department of Astrology. He expressed the hope that very soon the University of Jammu will have the Department of Astrology fully functional.

In his address Dr Ganganna eulogized the achievements of Dr R R Sharma. He pointed out that the Sanskrit was the real saviour of the people of the nation in these strife torn times as it can in real terms give Samskaras to the people and make them peace loving.

Dr K K Shastri, Head of the Department of Grammar , felicitated the guests and enumerated the aims of Sanskrit week celebrations.

The vote of thanks was presented by Dr Pryatam Chandra Shastri. The programme was conducted by Dr V M Shastri.

Anganwari workers hold dharna, procession

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: Anganwari workers representing all the blocks of Jammu province under the banner of Anganwari Workers Welfare Association gathered in front of office of the Divisional Commissioner Jammu and held dharna under the leadership of Mrs Santosh Jamwal in protest against injustice meted out to them and to impress upon the Government to concede their just and genuine demands.

As per a release after handing over a memorandum to the Divisional Commissioner the Anganwari workers organised a protest march upto Parade ground and held a rally in support of their demands. They demanded that interviews conducted by SSRB from July 27 to 31 for the post of Supervisor be cancelled and posts be filled up through DPC on seniority basis.

They demanded further that 20 percent quota of posts in Social Welfare, Education Block Development Offices and Health Departments , for which they have been working should be fixed and they be treated as daily wagers according to State Laws (RPL).

The main speakers included Shashi Kanta, Santosh Kumari, Ganesh Rajput, Swarna Devi, Koushalaya Sharma, Soma Devi, Raj Gupta, Sunita (Pouni), Sureya Begum, Zaina Begum, Shakuntla, Krishna, Sharda, Koushalaya (Bhalwal), Parsino Devi, Satya Devi, Koushalaya (Kalakot), Raj (Samba), Shashi Bala (Jammu) and Mrs Sudesh Jamwal.

Thereafter the rally was dispersed peacefully.

Machail yatra reaches Kishtwar

Excelsior Correspondent

Kishtwar, Aug 19: The annual Machail yatra commenced yesterday from Chandi temple Chinote Bhadarwah towards its destination Chandi Dham Machail, was accorded war and unprecedented reception by the citizens of Kishtwar town in the evening last night.

The holy Mace, alongwith pilgrims was taken to the Girls Higher Secondary School premises in the shape of Shoba Yatra with chanting of Chandi Mata Bhajans and Jai Karas. A large religious congregation was organized to highlight the importance of the yatra as also to greet it with love and affection.

The speakers informed that the yatra is first unique pilgrimage of its kind being organized by a dedicated and selfless management ‘Sarve Shakti Sewak Sanstha J&K’. The yatra has rather became a symbol of unity among the people of different faiths and it has further strengthened the bonds of secularism, mutual brotherhood and religious tolerance by upholding the principal of unity in diversity in the area. The yatra has brought religious revolution as well.

After first night halt at Kishtwar yesterday, about 10,000 pilgrims proceeded safe and sound towards Atholi Paddar travelling along the banks of the historical river Chenab in hundred heavy and light vehicles.

On reaching in the area of sapphire Valley of Paddar, the pilgrims will enjoy natural beauty and simplicity of the area. From Atholi onwards the pilgrims have to cover 31 kms journey by foot.

The local administration had made elaborate arrangements for the convenience of the yatries both at Kishtwar and halting places enroute to Machail-Paddar which include adequate accommodation, ration supplies, water, electricity and medicare alongwith beefed security cover.

Ajat Shatru asks women to play active part in
strenghtening democracy

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: The Minister of Information and Transport, Mr Ajat Shatru Singh has said that it is a matter of pleasure that women of state are taking active part in every field.

The Minister who was addressing a women workers meeting at Nagrota today said the women have attained fame in various professions well and their contribution in the development of the State can not be ignored.

He said it has been the earnest desire of Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah that the women in the State should play a positive role in Panchayats for which the elections were held after 23 years. The NC is the only Party which has reserved 33 per cent seats for women, he added.

He stressed upon the women workers that as far as working of the Panchayats is concerned it is again the women which can strengthen them by taking active part in their functioning. The condition of the women folk is better in comparison to the women in other states he added.

Mr Ajat Shatru Singh said that unless and until the women do not come forward the development of the State will be a distant dream. During the last six years, the NC Government has done a remarkable job and the people of State appreciate the performance of the Party.

He said India is a democratic country where people belonging to all communities and regions have the equal right. He said there is no authoritarian rule in India like Pakistan and every body is free here.

Among other speakers include Haji Mohammed Hussian MLC and local sarpanchs of the area.

KPs delegation meets CEC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 19: A delegation of All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) called on Chief Election Commissioner, Mr L M Lyngdoh here today. The delegation was led by Messrs H L Chatta, general secretary of ASKPC and its secretary, Ramesh Hakim.

As per a release, the delegation while apprising the CEC of the problems being faced by the displaced KPs who were forced to leave their homes and hearths by the Pakistani terrorists and fundamentalists said they are living the exiled life for over last 13 years.

They urged the CEC that keeping their plight in view the two rods for measurement may not be used for Kashmir and Gujarat and demanded that the elections be postponed in J&K till the Governor’s rule is not imposed in the state.

Highlighting the other demands, the ASKPC reiterated the demand for constituencies in exile for the KPs and urged EC members to visit the different migrant camps tomorrow to have the at and on spot study of the situation.

The delegation also demanded that the electoral rolls of Kashmir migrants be made available at Jammu. The Jammu Election Officer be authorized to attest the electoral roll of the contesting candidate.

Meanwhile, Mr A K Jyotshi PDP leader has urged the EC to issue the directives to the concerned authorities to entertain the migrants forms seeking correction and inclusion of names in the voters lists at every zonal office.

He said the way these forms are not being entertained at ZOs will make the poll process for the migrants useless as no voter will visit to their respective zonal offices which do not fall in their vicinity.