|
|
| Vaishno Devi Shrine Board goes in for automation Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, May 31: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has introduced modern techniques and automation in its operations like yatra management.....more By Sanjeev Sharma JAMMU, May 31: It was her strong determination coupled with hardwork for one goal that she ultimately achieved it by clearing this year’s Civil Services Examinations........more DB
directive to Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Justice T S Doabia and Justice SK Gupta, in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the inhabitants of Mohalla.......more Friday
following Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 31: The Friday Following Millad-un-Nabi (SAW) was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety across valley today.....more Plea
for grant of incentives turned down Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Division Bench of the State High Court, comprising Justice T S Doabia and Justice SK Gupta has directed Food Corporation of .....more |
 |
Lecture on
Health policy Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 31: Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) J&K Regional Branch organized a lecture by Prof. Abdul Hamid Zargar on Health Policy established and emerging challenges at SKICC yesterday. The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mian Altaf was the chief guest............more Nirankaris
arrange Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Sant Nirankari Mission arranged a large drinking water point with the blessings of Baba Hardev Singh ji under the supervision of Mr Jagmohan Chowdhari, zonal incharge J&K state of Sant Nirankari Mission, on annual Urs of Hazrat Faiz Baksh Blucher on Thursday..................more Ladakh
Scouts Excelsior Correspondent LEH, LADAKH, May 31: Amidst battle cry Ki Ki So So Lhargyalo, the Ladakh scouts observed its Raising Day at the regimental head quarters here. Bada Khana , cultural programmes and opening of some.................more NHPC to
invest Rs 31,466 cr Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) has planned to add 5310 MW of new capacity during the Xth plan period.........more |
Vaishno Devi Shrine Board goes in for automation Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, May 31: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has introduced modern techniques and automation in its operations like yatra management, registration counter for yatra slips, catering, donations and housekeeping for the facility of the pilgrims. Since the inception of the Board in 1986, there have been tremendous improvement activities, upgradation in facilities leading to very significant and sharp rise in number of yatries. Gauging the need of modernisation, the Board has also kept pace with changing scenario with automation. Plans for computerisation have been drawn up for remianing few areas. The adoption of modern automation in some spheres has started yielding results as well, according to sources in the Board. A drastic change in the management of the shrine and facilities for the yatries have been observed by the pilgrims visiting over the years. The registration counter at Katra, base camp of the 13-km pilgrimage, has been fully computerised. The yatries have not to stand in long queues to obtain the Yatra Slip for undertaking the pilgrimage. This also helps the Shrine Board in developing database which is useful in future planning of facilities. In the catering operations through fountain machines chilled cold drinks of various flavours are availabe at all the viewpoints enroute the pilgrimage and at Bhojanalayas. Lunch, dinner and snacks, prepared hygienically through automated kitchen equipments, are served at Bhojanalayas at different locations of the pilgrimage. For yatries, South Indian dishes including dosas as also the North Indian items like puri-chana and rajmash-rice are available. To the demand of the yatries for bakery products, the Board has installed its own automated bakery plant at Adhkawari. Trained staff prepare bakery items hygienically. The donation counters too have been computerised on National Technology Day and computerised receipts are issued to donors. Such computerised donation counters are : three at Bhawan, one at Adhkawari and two in Katra and this has brought some transparency too. In the accommodation provided by the Board, housekeeping has been totally automated. Automatic laundry plants for washing linen items with total capacity of 3.5 qtls is functioning at Bhawan, Adhkawari and Katra. Blankets are washed, dried and ironed automatically so that these remain dust free and hygienic. The Shrine Board has plans to go in for automation in its accounts section, purchase section as well as stores for both engineering and non-engineering items. The automation has proved useful in better management of pilgrimage, beneficial for the yatries and helpful to the Board as well. |
 |
|
By Sanjeev Sharma JAMMU, May 31: It was her strong determination coupled with hardwork for one goal that she ultimately achieved it by clearing this year’s Civil Services Examinations, the result of which were declared by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on May 15. This former student of Jagriti Niketan School,Jammu, Miss Sharmishtha Koul has ranked 215 in the merit list of over 420 pass outs. She has yet to be allotted the cadre. Post-Graduate in Sociology, Sharmishtha had chosen Geography and Sociology as her optional subjects. Although she cleared the exams in her second attempt, yet she still wants to improve further and has already applied for another test to improve her skills. Sharmishtha belongs to an average Kashmiri Pandit family, who had to flee from Kashmir valley due the militancy to the Winter Capital of Jammu, over 12 years back. Sharmishtha passed her matriculation from Jammu before the family decided to shift to Delhi, where she could pursue her advanced studies achieve her life time goal by qualifying the Civil Services examinations. Talking to EXCELSIOR on her visit to Jammu, this "polite and soft spoken" would-be bureaucrat attributed her success to her unconventional approach, strong determination and working with a conviction to achieve the goal. "It was like something very clear in my mind right from the days when I was in 4th standard, residing in Rainawari locality of Srinagar city. Although during all the years of turmoil, tension and stress, I never gave up my aim, although a lot of pressure came from the close relations to join some professional course or go for higher education", disclosed Sharmishtha in her first ever interview after achieving her aim. "In fact the idea of appearing in the Civil Services Examinations first struck to my mind when I first saw a cover photograph of a women topper in the Civil Services publishes by the CSIR magazine as a fourth standard student and with the passage of time it became an aim", she mentioned. Her desire to achieve the aim was further strengthen when her maternal uncle and Grandfather, stood by her and instead of opting for routine courses, they inspired her to sit in this prestigious examination. Sharmishtha, daughter of Mr Nandanji Dembi, an employee of the Ranbir Government Press, Srinagar and Mrs Nancy,is probably amongst the few ladies of Jammu and Kashmir who have achieved this feat. She said a lot of friends asked me in Delhi why a few students from Jammu and Kashmir compete Civil Services examinations. I had infact no answer, despite the fact that the students of J&K are much intelligent than the other competitors around. Why students of J&K, particularly KPs feel shy of sitting in IAS and only opt for Engineering courses is disgusting, she said. "What I have observed and experienced is that in this part of the country, people probably know just two professions and press their wards to achieve the goal that hangs between an Engineer and MBBS Doctor", she said and expressed her confidence that, after going through my feelings, atleast parents would realise that to achieve IAS is not so difficult task provided they make their wards ready for it write from their student days. Asked where she wants to serve, she quickly replied that "I would definitely like to serve in my home state of Jammu and Kashmir and if given a chance, would make some changes in the present education set-up". |
|
DB directive to Municipality Administrator, PCB Director Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Justice T S Doabia and Justice SK Gupta, in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the inhabitants of Mohalla Dalpathian, has directed Administrator Jammu Municipality and Director Pollution Control Board (PCB) Jammu to see as to whether the Master Plan for the area has been prepared or not. If there is a Master Plan then what would be the position of the buildings which are already in existence in the area and in use for a particular purpose, the Bench observed. The Court observed that the writ petition be treated as a complaint and the respondents would examine if the inhabitants of the area are likely to be affected. "When this matter is examined, the decision given by the Supreme Court directing shifting of Industries causing health hazard would be taken note of. This is a larger issue and would require consideration at the State level, because if any industry is to be shifted then alternative accommodation will have to be provided", the court held. This PIL was filed by the inhabitants of Mohalla Dalpathian wherein it was mentioned that the area was polluted due to a wood industry. The Division bench directed that survey would be conducted not only with regard to the premises owned by Subash Chander and Raman Kumar Jain, but also with regard to the premises where the activities of Sawin Wood does lead dust and the saw dust not only mixes with air, but also affects the food items which are being sold in the locality. KS Johal appeared for PIL while’s SK Anand, Irfan Noor, KM Bhatti and SS Nanda appeared for the respondents. |
|
Friday
following Millad-un-Nabi (SAW) Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 31: The Friday Following Millad-un-Nabi (SAW) was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety across valley today. Large congregations were held at several shrines and Jamia Mosques where ‘Ulma’ highlighted various aspects of Sirat-ul-Nabi (PBUH) and teachings of Prophet which brought Islamic revolution upholding high morale and sanctity of humanity. Thousands of devotees thronged Hazratbal and other shrines throughout the dayand offered prayers. The holy Relic was sighted after every prayer. These shrines include Shehri Kalashpora, Jinab Sahib Soura, Khiram-Sirhama, Pinjura, Qaba Marg, Makhama, Rawcha Rafiabad, Ahem Sharief Bandipora and Aasar-i- Sharief Baramulla. The Divisional and respective district administration had made elaborate arrangements for Transport, regulation of traffic, availability of water supply and medicare and other required facilities. The SRTC had made appreciable transport arrangements and its management was personally supervising its monitoring on all routes especially Hazratbal. The Jammu and Kashmir Bank and several voluntary organizations had arranged soft drinks for devotees at various spots including enroute Hazratbal. |
|
Plea for grant of
incentives turned down Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Division Bench of the State High Court, comprising Justice T S Doabia and Justice SK Gupta has directed Food Corporation of India (FCI) to withdraw the benefits if already given to any inservice candidate working in FCI, pursuant to Circular number 40 of 1985. The Bench directed FCI not to give effect to the Circular as in much as it accords benefit to the inservice candidates for acquiring higher qualification. The judgment was passed in a writ petition filed by Bharatiya Khadya Nigam Karamchari Sang pursuant to the reference made by Single Judge of the High Court formulating two questions of law. The petition was initially filed by V K Tandon in 1988 wherein he submitted for grant of advance increment on the basis of circular number 40 of 1985 which was applicable to only inservice candidates. The petition was allowed in 1992 wherein it was held that Tandon will be entitled for two additional increments. The Union subsequently filed the application for intervention and the same was allowed. The judgment passed by the Single Judge assumed finality as the LPA filed by FCA was rejected on the grounds of delay. The two questions had come up during the course of the writ petition when the Union, in 1994 had filed a fresh writ petition for the similar relief granted to Tandon. The Judge who framed two questions included whether the circular 40 of 1985 which grants incentives to the employees of the Corporation suffers from the vice of discrimination and second question weather the employees incentives was provided can be equated with the persons who at the time of the recruitment possessed higher qualification in terms of the circulation. When the matter came before Division bench, Wasim Sadiq Nargal appearing for the FCI, submitted that no benefit can be accorded to the Union and in case the relief prayed is granted, it would tantamount to enlarging the circular and that would be clearly beyond the scope of the writ jurisdiction. The DB quashed paragraph 3 of the Circular which allowed the benefit of two increments and held that Circular to be violative 14 and 16 of the Constitution. The petition was disposed of with the direction to the respondents not to give effect to the circular in question as it accords benefits to the inservice candidates for acquiring higher qualification at the expenses of the Corporation. The Court observed that this judgment will have a far reaching consequences and will be applicable to all FCI employees who have been granted benefits earlier on the strength of the said circular being incircular candidates as the court directed the Corporation to withdraw the benefits now. DC Raina appeared on behalf of the petitioners. |
|
Lecture on Health policy and emerging challenges organized by SKIMS Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 31: Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) J&K Regional Branch organized a lecture by Prof. Abdul Hamid Zargar on Health Policy established and emerging challenges at SKICC yesterday. The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mian Altaf was the chief guest. Prof. Zargar dealt at length about various health problems in general and in particular the health problems, encountered in Kashmir valley. He highlighted the problems like infectious diseases including hepatitis, AIDS as on of the primary health concerns. He mentioned mal-nutrition especially amongst children, women and lactating mothers also a cause of concern. He identified Cardio Vascular diseases and Diabetes as the other important health problems which the society shall is facing, as the pre-dominant diseases mainly due to the food habits and sedentary life style. The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mr. Mian Altaf in his address, appreciated the thought provoking lecture by Prof. Zargar, on Health Policy and assured that the important recommendations which emerged during the course of lecture may be passed on to the Government for consideration and implementation. In his address the Chairman J&K IIPA, Mr. J. A. Khan emphasized the requirement bridging the gap between the knowledge and the need in Health policy formulation. |
|
Nirankaris arrange water point for public Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Sant Nirankari Mission arranged a large drinking water point with the blessings of Baba Hardev Singh ji under the supervision of Mr Jagmohan Chowdhari, zonal incharge J&K state of Sant Nirankari Mission, on annual Urs of Hazrat Faiz Baksh Blucher on Thursday. The services were provided at the water point by several devotees of the Mission. Mr Jagmohan in his address appealed the people and Nirankaris in particular to help the displaced families from border belt of Jammu and Kathua. He further said know one God, accept one God and be one, you are son of God only. He also explained the importance of holly place of Hazrat Faiz Baksh Bhukhari, that human being or animals get relief here who have been bittened by mad dogs. Mr Sansar Chand, incharge Akhnoor branch thanked the sewadars for the success of the "Shabeel". Sewadars under the supervision of Chuni Lal and Bharat Bhushan of the mission has attended the thousands of pilgrims of various religions, who visited the holy Urs site near the international border where the shelling is going on. |
|
Ladakh Scouts observe Raising Day Excelsior Correspondent LEH, LADAKH, May 31: Amidst battle cry Ki Ki So So Lhargyalo, the Ladakh scouts observed its Raising Day at the regimental head quarters here. Bada Khana , cultural programmes and opening of some welfare schemes were main features of the day. Commandent Ladakh Scout Regiment, Col. Amarjit Singh while appreciating the valour and courage of Ladakh Scouts said that the Ladakh Scouts has a glorious history which dates back 1948 Skirmishes with Pakistan. Soon after independence , in order to save Ladakh from the Qabalies (intruders) who came from across the border; the "National Guards" were formed out of the local Ladakhi warriors. In 1952 they formed the erstwhile 7th J&K Militia. The 14th J&K Militia was subsequently raised in 1959 at Srinagar. On first June 1963, Ladakh Scouts (I Border Scouts) was raised by the merger of 7th and 14th J&K militia. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the Ladakh Scouts launched a brilliant attack in Turtok Sector and advanced 22 kms into the enemy territory in just 14 days, thereby liberating 804 sq kms of area. The period from 1982 to 1985 witnessed the reorganisation. He said the sons of the Soil of Ladakh rose to the occasion yet once more when the nation’s sovereignty was challenged in the remote and icy expanse North of NJ 9842; thus painting Operation Meghdoot and becoming the first ones to get inducted into Siachen Glacier-the highest battle field of the world. The brave nunus (young brave ones) proved their valour in counter insurgency operations by killing over a hundred militants and recovering large quantities of arms and ammunition in the Valley between 1994 to 1997. In 1999 during Operation Vijay, the Ladakh Scouts blazed a trail of victory on the barren and rugged mountains of Ladakh by being the first to evict the intruders from Chorbat La; thereby providing impetus to subsequent operations and success. The unstinted victory in this operation brought us many awards and laurels. In fact , the nunus of Ladakh Scouts are instrumental for Indian victory in Kargil Conflict. In recognition of the valour and sacrifice, the Chief of Army Staff instituted the COAS Banner for the first time since Independence and the same was awarded in an impressive ceremonial parade at Phyang on September 18, 1999. The Ladakh Scouts is the one and only Regiment in the entire Indian Army to be awarded thus. In paying rich tributes to the tradition of valour and sacrifices of Ladakh Scouts, the nation recognised the erstwhile Scouts and bestowed upon it the status of a Regiments in the Indian Army. The tally of honours and awards speak volumes of its valour both in war and peace with total 307 gallantry awards including one Ashoka Chakra. All the Ex- servicemen war widows and their families witnessed in Day, Gallantry award winners like Nb. Sub Chering Mutup, Ashoka Chakra and many more old veterans of Ladakh Scouts graced the occasion. Octogenarian Mrs Disket Dolma, wife of Late Col. Chhewang Rinchen, Mahavir Chakra, Bar and Sena Medal, the pride of Ladakh Scouts was the centre of attraction. |
|
NHPC to invest Rs 31,466 cr during Xth plan period Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) has planned to add 5310 MW of new capacity during the Xth plan period. Under the programme, 14 projects are to be commissioned during the next five years. For execution of the 14 projects identified during the Xth plan period to add 5310 MW, NHPC has finalised an investment plan of Rupees 31,466 crores, out of which net budgetary support by the Government of India will be to the tune of Rs 14,200 crores. This is the highest allocation to the NHPC so far by the Planning Commission. While the 390 MW Dul Hasti Project in Jammu and Kashmir and 300 MW Chamera Stage-II Project in Himachal Pradesh are to be commissioned during December, 2003 and May 2004 respectively, work on 280 MW Dhauliganga Stage-I Project in Uttranchal and 510 MW Teesta Stage Project in Sikkim is in full swing. The Dhauliganga Project is to be commissioned by March 2005 and Teesta Stage-V Project is to be commissioned by February, 2007. Work on 1000 MW Indira Sagar Project, a joint venture of NHPC and Madhya Pradesh Government is also in the advanced stage. The other new projects identified for execution during the Xth plan period are the 125 MW Farakka Barrage, 132 MW Teesta Low Dam Stage-III and 168 MW Teesta Low Dam Stage-IV in West Bengal, 120 MW Sewa-II in Jammu and Kashmir, 18 MW Bav-I and 37 MW Bav-II in Maharashtra and 810 MW Upper Krishna Projects in Karnatka. NHPC also plans to take up active construction of the 520 MW Omkareshwar Project in Madhya Pradesh. The Corporation is likely to set up a joint venture for the execution of 900 MW Purlia Pumped Storage Scheme in West Bengal. This will be a joint venture of NHPC and the West Bengal Government. At the 390 MW Dul Hasti Project in Jammu and Kashmir all major civil works except head race tunnel have been completed. All electro-mechanical and hydro-mechanical works were completed on January 31, 2002. The project is scheduled to be commissioned on December 2003. |
|
Mothers’ feeling
prevails over them From Nishikant Khajuria BISHNAH, May 31: Even as they are the worst sufferers of the ongoing intermittent firing and shelling from across the border and resulting migration from their homes, yet they opine contradictory from their male counterparts over the most talkable issue of war with the neighbouring country, which has made their life hellish. While each and every male border migrant, putting up at different Government school buildings in the town, is for a "decisive battle" against Pakistan to teach the enemy a lesson, majority of women in these camps donot subscribe to the opinion of their male members. Though, they are very much aware that only Pakistan is responsible for their miseries, yet mothers’ feeling prevails over their anger. Despite bearing maximum brunt of the stupid mis-adventurism of Pakistan, women folk still do not wish that any of the Pakistani mother lose her son. "We don’t want war since it would bring only destruction and killing of hundreds of civilians as well as non-civilians on both sides of the border," says Kamlesh Kumari, who was forced to migrate alongwith her family from their village Pindi Kalan and presently putting up in the building of Government Higher Secondary School, Bishnah. Chanchla Devi, mother of three echoed same view and said,"even as they (Pakistani soldiers) are our enemy and have brought miseries to us but despite that we will never wish of their destruction since they are also sons of their mothers." "Eak Maa Dusri Maa Ke Bete Ka Bura Nahin Soch Sakti," said a mother. "War will bring nothing but destructions and deaths. Instead of war we should pray God to give good sense to our enemy so that peace and amity should prevail in this region", she hopes. However, on the other hand, their male counterparts, irrespective of age, are unanimous over demanding military action against Pakistan, which, they feel, can understand only the language of war. "India must declare a war against Pakistan and teach them a lesson so that they (Pak leadership) can never think of promoting terrorism in our country or disintegrate us,"stressed Bakil Singh of Trewa. Eighty four year old Munshi Ram of Trewa, who is witness to three wars with Pakistan and has experienced migration a number of times, also insisted for a decessive battle against the neighbouring country. "It is better to die once than dying each and every day,"he quipped when asked whether war would be more destructive than ongoing firing on the border. "I have witnessed and experienced pre-war hostilities for three times but the prevailing situation is much more dangerous," he opined. Teenaged Yasheel Kumar, who is handicapped and unable to move freely because of his defective right leg, also yelled for military action against Pakistan notwithstanding the fear that the same may result into killing of hundreds of civilians as well as non-civilians on both sides of the border. Soudagar Ram, whose entire agricultural land has come under mines area and now putting up alongwith his family in the school building after their migration shouted over present leadership of the country and lamented," it seems that our present leadership has no gutts since they are issuing merely threats of military action but not meterialising the same." "Hum Apna Sab Kush Noshawar Karne Ko Teyar Hain Bus Pardhan Mantri Aar Ya Paar Ki Larai Ka Eailan Kar Dein," he added. But his over enthusiasm is cold-shouldered by Ratna Sharma who terms the war cry of average male migrant as a hysteria which, if meterialises, would snatch sons of mothers, husbands of wives and brothers of sisters. "We wish peace in India as well as in Pakistan,"she added. |
|
Contingency plan for migrants of Rajouri Excelsior Correspondent Rajouri, May 31: In view of the prevailing situation, a contingency plan for rescue and rehabilitation of border areas population likely to be migrated was discussed in district officers meeting held here yesterday under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Rajouri, Mr. K.A.Khan. As precautionary measures, the DDC said that all concerned Tehsildars of their respective areas will be over all Incharge for the rehabilitation of the people in the camp and ensure all necessary arrangements regarding timely supply of ration, drinking water, electricity and medicare services. Mr. Khan asked the Superintending Engineer, PHE to ensure supply of drinking water in the camps through tankers even arrangements of Centex tanks should be made available at the camps. He directed the Assistant Director Food and Supplies to keep all the go-downs in the entire district fully equipped with ration items. Besides, respective BDOs, TSOs and Naib-Tehsildars will be the camp officers and they will ensure preparation list of migrant’s through village Sarpanchs and Panches. The DDC directed the CMO, Rajouri to prepare roster duty chart of doctors/ para-medical staff in the district and sub-district hospitals, PHCs and dispensaries which should be fully equipped with lives saving drugs and surgical items. He, however, said that the Control Room will be set up at Tehsil Headquarters to have a liaison with the district control room. Mr. Khan directed that no officer/ official shall proceed on leave without prior permission during prevailing situation in the district. |
|
FTR delegation visits camps of displaced border people Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: A delegation of the Front for the Trilateral Resolution of JK Problem visited border migrant camps in Hiranagar tehsil today. The delegation comprised of Kuldeep Dogra, president of the Front, M R Qureshi, Himmat Singh, I D Khajuria, Moulvi Gh Nabi, A S Rather, A A Qureshi and A Latif Malik. According to a press release, the members of the delegation found that 10 to 15 families of migrants were lodged in each room of various government school buildings where no arrangements of power drinking water facilities and medical facilities were available. The migrants told the deputation that they were fed up with the continues tension on the borders and they have been living under miserable conditions for the last more than five decades and wanted end of the hostilities between India and Pakistan. The FTR appealed to the Government to mitigate the sufferings of the border migrants who are living under inhuman conditions at present. The Front also appealed to both Indian and Pakistani governments to de-escalate tension on border and initiate trilateral talks among India, Pakistan and people of Jammu and Kashmir for working out a permanent solution of JK problem. |
|
Meetings of co-operative marketing societies held Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: Meetings of the representatives of Cooperative Marketing Societies of R S Pura and Bishnah were held under the chairmanship of Mohammed Ayub Khan, president of the J&K Cooperative Union, at R S Pura and Bishnah. According to a press release, the members complained that the societies were required to enter into a MoU with the JAKFED regarding purchase on fertilizers without reconciliation of accounts. It was urged in the meeting to formulate a uniform policy with regard to distribution of fertilizers and Kerosene oil so that the cooperatives are not handicapped for no fault of theirs. The participants stressed the need to rejuvenate inter-cooperative relationship and package steps to be taken to revamp the movement. Mr Jatinder Dev, while addressing the meeting, stressed on the need of involving women, youth and Panchayat representatives in the movement and also suggested steps to be taken to rebuild the confidence in collective undertaking in business operation. Rajinder Singh, ex-MLA, Piara Singh, ex-MLC, Rajesh Sharma, Gulshan Kumar, Capt Janak Singh, Prem Nath, Romesh Billa, Prem Chand Sharma, Basant Singh and Parhlad Singh attended the meeting. Vote of thanks was presented by Des Raj Tiyagi. |
|
Bridging distances in Anantnag Excelsior Correspondent Anantnag, May 31: The purpose of construction of bridges is not only to span the streams but strengthen the social as well as economic bonds also between the people living on either side. Social relationship flourishes as connectivity develops between different areas. Bridges bring far-flung areas closer to cities and towns and help people come close each other. In keeping with their importance, the Government has taken up the construction of bridges on priority basis in the State. In Anantnag district as many as alone 35 major and 33 minor gutted and damaged bridges were constructed as a cost of Rs. 59.43 crore during the last six years benefiting more than 10 lakh people. Earlier, in the absence of these constructed bridges, people suffered a lot as they had to cover shorter distances through longer routes. Some of the major bridges constructed in Anantnag ended the hardships of people otherwise living in inaccessible areas like Hiller, Breng Larkipora, Dachnipora, Akura, Homeshalibug and Noorabad. The Nihama bridge, the longest in the district, is about 150 metres long and is being constructed over Nallah Vishov at a cost of Rs. 562 lakh. This bridge would serve as the only link between Noorabad constituency and rest of the district. The bridge is likely to be completed by the end of the current year. The Arwani bridge 90 metres connects Pulwama district with that of Anantnag and provides easy access to 4 lakh people of both the districts and also facilitates inter-district transport and traffic. The Akura bridge, constructed at a cost of Rs. 288 lakh, is 120 metres long. More than 2 lakh people of Dachnipora and Khovpora were benefited. The bridge is the main link between the two areas. The Gurri bridge 112 meters and Bijbehara Padshahi Bagh bridge 102 metres have been constructed at a cost of Rs. 309.50 lakh and Rs. 306 lakh respectively. These connect Gurri and interior villages of Bijbehara Dachanpora with National Highway. More than 1.50 lakh people of these areas were benefited. With the construction of the two bridges at Khudwani, more than two lakh people of Kulgam and Homeshalibug were provided better communication facilities. Both Khudwani and Sakharsum bridges have been constructed over Nullah Vishov at a cost of Rs. 275 lakh and Rs. 97 lakh respectively. The Sakharsum bridge connects a vast area of Homeshalibug with ther National Highway and Kukgam Sub-division. The Larkipora bridge 101 metres and the Hiller bridge 100 metres are the two main bridges which directly link Shahabad Dooru and Breng with district headquarters. The bridges were constructed at a cost of Rs. 87 lakh and 117 lakh respectively. A vast population was benefited by the construction of these bridges that enabled free movement of fruit and other commodities. The Zirpora bridge has been constructed with an expenditure of Rs. 228 lakh. The bridge benefits nearly one lakh people of Anantnag town and adjacent areas. Constructed over nallah Vishov, the Brazloo bridge, the only link between Qazigund and Kulgam areas is 66 meters long and was recently completed with an expenditure of Rs. 1.20 crore. Over the Wyeth-Vathur nallah near Chogam, a 67 metre long bridge has been completed with an expenditure of Rs. 83 lakh and was thrown open for vehicular traffic resuming transport facilities to many villages. Another bridge is coming up at a cost of Rs. 148 lakh and is likely to be completed by December end. Yet another bridge constructed over the same nullah at a cost of Rs. 231 lakh at Akhran is nearing completion and would be thrown open for traffic shortly. The Mir Danter is another important bridge constructed over nullah Arpath at a cost of Rs. 154 lakh. Similarly, Ashagipora bridge, constructed over the Arpath nallah connects Dyalgam and other villages with Anantnag town. The Aishmuqam, the Vailoo, the Kangan Hall and the Langanbal bridges are some other important bridges constructed at a total cost Rs.189.19 lakhs. These proved very beneficial for the people dependent on these bridges to carry out their day to day activities smoothly. The construction of a chain of bridges in south Kashmir has given impetus to the social, economic and educational activities. The bridges have also provided employment opportunities to the labour class. |
|
Free and fair elections demanded in distt Doda Excelsior Correspondent DODA, May 31: The Educated Unemployed Youth Association of District Doda had demanded free and fair polls in the forthcoming Assembly elections in the State particularly in district Doda. Since, the Association is fielding its candidates in all the six Assembly constituencies of the District, they want the elections to be free and fair under the Presidential rule. In a handout issued here today, the Association has also urged upon the Election Commission of India to depute election observers from the Centre and ensure that the staff deployed on the polling stations was non-local so that rigging may not take place. The Association members have appealed the people of Doda particularly the youth community to come forward and support the youth leaders by casting vote in their favour. They alleged that National Conference Government has failed to fulfill its commitments made with the people during the last Assembly elections in the State. They criticised the State Government for reducing the age limit for the Government jobs by which hundreds of graduates in the District have become overage. However, the Association asked the Government to ensure the employment of these overaged unemployed youth in the various hydel projects being taken up in the district. Those who attended the meeting included Masood Mattoo, Joginder Bhandari, Susheel Sharma, Masood Shah, Hafiz Mattoo, Ajay Parihar, Tahir Saroori, Ajay Sharma, Feda Hussain Salfi, Nissar Mir, Ashraf Mattoo and Rakesh Parihar. |
|
JKNF delegation visits migrant camps Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Nationalist Front led by Mr Tilak Raj Sharma, convenor along with co-convenor of the Front Mr Ramesh Sabharwal visited the border migrants camps at Chakra, Rajpura, Jatwal, Mareen, Chak Haria and other areas. According to a press release, it was found that migrants have been living in inhuman conditions. There was lack of drinking water beside acute shortage of accommodation compelling jam pack living and problem of cattle feed etc. During interaction with JKNF delegation, the migrants demanded that they should be provided permanent accommodation in the safer places. It was observed with shock that the Government has been discriminating with border migrants and Kashmiri migrants. JKNF demanded parity in the matter of relief and cash payment to all migrants irrespective of area and occupation. In Hiranager, JKNF nominated Mr Vijay Kumar as convenor of the Civil Defence Committee to look after the interest of border migrants and help forces and law maintaining agencies. |
|
|
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 31: The meeting of Working Committee of the Pradesh Vishwakarma Sabha reviewed functioning of the organisation and discussed steps to gear up its activities. The meeting was chaired by the president of the sabha, Mr K C Raina. As per release, the meeting appreciated the efforts of the members for carrying on the work of the sabha and achieving the targets set for the last year. It was decided to constitute an Advisory Board of experienced persons to strengthen the organisation and further spread it to the grass-root level. An opinion was expressed in the meeting that meritorious students who secure above 60 per cent marks in results should be encouraged at a special function. The Vishwakarma biradari members have been asked to inform the sabha of such meritorious cases. The working committee cautioned the biradari of beware of certain elements who are bent upon to create disunity. Mr Raina, as per release, warned such persons for convening a separate meeting without knowledge and approval of the president. |
|
Fresh migration worries
authorities From Mohinder Verma SUCHETGARH, May 31: Due to increase in heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops in R S Pura sector this morning, the people even from this side of Defence Ditch have started deserting their homes and are heading towards the town in an effort to save their lives. But the authorities seem to be unconerned to the woes of the border migrants as they have virtually surrendered before the situation. With migration continuing unabated, the border people have been forced to live in open of their own; in absence of any word of sympathy from the authorities and what to talk of relief either in cash or kind. Earlier, the people from forward villages like Abdullian, Sangral and Suchetgarh had migrated, but the stepped up shelling by the Pakistani troops has forced the people of these villages living on this side to move further towards the safer places, even away from the Ditchs dug about two kilometers from the international border, in orderto escape from the wrath of the Pakistan’s unabated firing. "Nodoubt womenfolk and children had already migrated from these villages and only men remained there to look after their houses and animals. But today, the men have also deserted the villages for safety, leaving behind their life time possessions", narrated a fleeing villager Sant Ram. As soon as the Pakistani troops started targeting houses in this side of ditch, more villagers started fleeing towards the town. Sant Ram, who has deserted his house in Suchetgarh village this morning, said that he left his four buffaloes in the village and could not take them along due to unprovoked firing from across the border. Due to fleeing of villagers from this side of Ditch the number of migrant families has swollen and the camps established by authorities have failed to accommodate them. "Due to lack of space in Government provided accommodation, we have been forced to live in open", an old woman Raj Devi, who was seen resting under a big tree on way to Suchetgarh, said. "We are here in this open field for the last four days but none from the administration side has come to see as to in which condition we are living", she complained and questioned "what is the fun of going to R S Pura town where we will find no space to stay". She flatly said " we have not received any sort of relief or tents so far and we are living with the things we have with us. Within a day or two, we will run short of food items and that will be starvation for us", she said. The Government has established 10 camps in R S Pura town where 6000 families, comprising 25,000 souls are putting up and in nine non-camps, 1283 families comprising 7000 persons are residing but the migration by more people even from this side of ditch has created accommodation problem. "Due to lack of space and non-availability of tents, some migrants have been made to take shelter in the houses of their relatives", one Sukh Raj said, adding "they (migrants) have been assured to be given full relief". This correspondent saw bullcarts loaded with people and their luggage entering the town from the border villages. There were also a number of people who even couldn’t afford a trolley and were walking their way from the border to R S Pura town on foot. Majority of the houses in Abdullian, Suchetgarh and Sangral were seen abandoned and only cattle could be seen moving in the streets and from one house to another, as they had been left behind by the people. "It is difficult to even feed our family members and from where we will bring fodder for our animals", a youth said, adding "that is why they left their animals in their respective houses. "Pakistan frequently shelled Sangral, Suchetgarh and Abdullian villages this morning in which one BSF jawan got killed and two army jawans and a BSF man got injured", a BSF officer at Suchetgarh said and warned the visiting mediamen not to move further as Pakistani troops have been continuously shelling Indian posts. As there was no end to the migration, the authorities seemed to be worried that if the trend continued, it would become difficult for them to accommodate the villagers. "The camps established by Government are already accommodating the people more than their capacities and today’s migration has virtually sounded alarm bells for us", Tehsildar R S Pura said, adding "they have decided to accommodate the migrants in Agriculture College in tents to be erected in Stadium due to some reasons". Tehsildar R S Pura disclosed that he has not received tents so far and as soon as he will get them, the same will be given to the migrants. The situation in Agriculture College was heart rendering as the corridor was crammed with women, children and men and there was hardly any space to step in. Some migrant youth in College questioned "can you prepare food without mustard oil and other essential ingredients" and said that mere flour and rice is not sufficient to prepare meal. "We are not given any cash relief so far and everybody in this College is looking for the same to purchase essential commodities needed to prepare meals", they further said. Due to non-availability of space in the corridor, some people were seen sitting in open. A group of five women alongwith their children were sitting under a small tree to prevent themselves from scotching heat due to lack of space inside the College. |
|
| home | state | national | business| editorial | advertisement | sports | |
