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

IPO members felicitate new ‘Kissan MP’
Discrimination with Jammu a closed chapter: Bajwa

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Senior PDP Kissan leader and newly elected Rajya Sabha Member, Mr Trilok Singh Bajwa has said that he will raise the issues of the people of the region with force in the Upper House.

The newly elected MP, who was felicitated by the members of J&K Institute of Public Opinion at Chambers office complex on Railway Road here today, said that he will try his best to prove as better representative of the people of the state. Being associated with the farmers’ community, he will also ensure justice with them especially those residing close to the border and facing drought.

Extending thanks to the members of the Chamber and Industry and also the IPO for honouring him, Mr Bajwa said that people of the region have lot of hopes from him and he will not disappoint them. He assured the prominent citizens to provide funds for the development activities out of his Constituency Development quota and also seek funds from the Centre through various projects/ schemes for the welfare of J&K people.

The PDP leader pointed out that he was well aware of the problems of his people. Jammu region continued to remain discriminated for long and it should be a closed chapter now. He assured that his Party will ensure justice with the people of all the three regions. The PDP, he said, believes in the equal development of all the regions. Mr Bajwa said that he will take up the issue of Basmati export and suitable parking sites in Jammu city besides its beautification with the concerned authorities and try his best to provide funds for the same. He assured that he will watch the interests of Jammu people and work for their welfare.

Earlier, Mr Ram Sahai president, Chamber of Commerce and Industry honoured Mr Bajwa and extended gratitude to him on behalf of CCI and IPO. He pointed out that Mr Bajwa is the true representative of the people of Jammu and hoped that he will raise the burning issues of his people. Mr Sahai at the same time also brought some major problems like parking and proper regulation of traffic in Jammu city to the notice of the new MP and hoped that he will help to get some new projects sanctioned to overcome these problems.

The Chamber president also demanded that Mr Bajwa should take up the issue of export of Basmati from Jammu region to outside the state. He said the Basmati of R S Pura, Bishnah border belt in very favour in the country and lifting of ban on the export will improve the economy of this border belt.

General Secretary, Mr Sat Paul Sahni also spoke on the occasion and also raised some suggestions. A few members including, Chander Gulati also made some valuable suggestions in the function regarding growing traffic problems. It was suggested that roof be constructed at general bus stand at B C Road where single or double storey parking site be developed. Besides this, parking sites be identified at various crucial points. They drawn the attention of JDA and Jammu Municipality towards this problem. Administrator JMC, Mr Narinder Singh and senior PDP leader Ved Mahajan and Ashok Sharma were also present on the occasion. Maj Gen (Retd), B N Dhar proposed the vote of thanks.

Helicopter service from Katra to Shanjichhat resumed

Excelsior Correspondent

Katra, Nov. 16 : The Governor Mr G C Saxena who is also the Chairman of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji Shrine Board inaugurated the Deccan helicopter service from Katra to Shanjichhat (Shri Mata Vaishno Devi) here this morning which has been started with cooperation of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Among the distinguished guests and officers from Shrine Board and district administration, Union Minister of State for Civil Defence, Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta, District Development Commissioner Mr.Atul Dullo, Board Member, Mr.M.M.Khajuria, Chief Executive Officer, Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Dr.Arun Kumar, General Manager Marketing, Deccan Aviation Private Ltd. were present.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that Shrine Board always stood for providing more and better facilities to the devotees of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji and with the same consideration, the helicopter services has been re-started keeping in view the problems and sentiments of handicapped and aged persons besides rich and middle class devotees who cannot visited the Shrine due to paucity of time. This facility has been added for the pilgrimage. He expressed hope that the management of the company would provide helicopter service at affordable tariff by common devotees. The Governor said that the contract with the management has been signed after satisfying itself with the track record of service and efficiency of Deccan aviation.

Congratulating the management and pilgrims on the commencement of this service, the Governor expressed the hope that safe and comfortable services will be provided to the pilgrims travelling in the helicopter. The Governor assured full cooperation from Shrine board and other quarters for successful operation of the helicopter service.

Allaying the apprehension of the locals about the effect on their business due to introduction of helicopter service, the Governor underlined the need to keep pace with the changing time, advancement in development and facilities and assured that it would not in any way affect the livelihood of anybody, instead it would give a positive message of normalcy and improvement in the development scenario.

Mr. Saxena said that the interest of Katra, the base camp of pilgrimage have always remain surface whether it was the problem of electricity, water supply or health care and assured that the Shrine Board would continue to take care of the local people.

The Governor said there was decline in the rush of pilgrims earlier this year, but it is again picking up for the last few months and hoped that the number will go up to 60 lakh during this year.

The Union Minister of State for Defence hoped that the helicopter service will prove successful as it is being fun by competent and experienced retired army officers. He said that initially 6-seaters chopper service has been started which will be further enhanced to 15 seaters.

Prof. Gupta said that few years back Pawan Hans service for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine was started and thousands of people from within and outside the country had appreciated the venture but felt concerned that the service could not be continued and abandoned for some reasons. The Minister extended full cooperation to the Aviation Company and hoped that pilgrims comforts and other services will be well taken care of.

Earlier, the Governor, Union Minister of State, the Board Member, performed Pooja amidst chanting of Vedic Mantras by Pujaris at the Helipad.

The Additional Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Manoj Kumar Divewdi presented vote of thanks.

Governor administers oath to Zargar as Pro-tem Speaker

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Mr. Abdul Aziz Zargar was today administered oath as Member of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and Pro-tem Speaker.

At a simple ceremony held at Raj Bhavan here this evening, the Governor, Mr. Girish Chandra Saxena administered the oath to Mr. Zargar.

Among others, the Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Deputy Chief Minister, Pt. Mangat Ram Sharma, Chairman, Legislative Council, Mr. Abdul Rashid Dar, Ministers, Chief Secretary and senior officers were present.

Mr. Zargar is the senior most political leader, elected to the Legislative Assembly. He was first elected to the Constituent Assembly in a bye-election in 1954 from Devsar constituency and continued as Member of the State Legislative Assembly till 1975. In 1972, he was appointed as Minister for Forests and Agriculture in Syed Mir Qasim Ministry. Earlier in 1964, he was appointed as Chief Parliamentary Secretary in Mr. G. M. Sadiq’s Government. In 1983, he was appointed as Director, National Fertilizers, Government of India. In 1987, Mr. Zargar was again elected as Member, Legislative Assembly.

In the recent Assembly elections, Mr. Zargar has been elected from Noorabad Constituency on Peoples Democratic Party ticket.

Niaz demands compensation

Excelsior Correspondent

BATOTE, Nov 16: A meeting of the Bagliar Power Project Workers Union was held under the presidentship of Mr Javid Ahmed Zarger in which Mr Mohammed Sherief Niaz, MLA Bhaderwah was chief guest.

According to a press release, while addressing the rally, Mr Zarger informed that houses of those living near Bagliar Project have developed cracks due to blasting. He further informed that adequate compensation has not given to those whose lands have been acquired by the administration for the project.

Mr Niaz while addressing the meeting, assured the people that adequate compensation will be given to those whose houses have developed cracks besides those whose lands have been acquired. MLA informed that gathering that he has taken up the matter with the Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammed Sayeed during the meeting of the District Development Board. He told that besides assuring adequate compensations to the inhabitants, the Chief Minister has also directed that local unemployed youth should be recruited in these types of projects.

MLA expressed his gratitude towards Chief Minister for taking these positive decisions in favour of the local people as well as unemployed youth.

Quiz programme on newborn care conducted at SMGS

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: As a part of ongoing activities of the Neonatal Week, organised by Department of Pediatrics, Government Medical College and Indian Academy of Pediatrics, J&K Chapter, a quiz programme was conducted for doctors and nurses in SMGS Hospital today.

Teams comprising of Dr Neerupam and Dr Natasha Suri, Dr Monika Dullu and Dr Sunita Darvesh, Dr Deepshikha and Dr Garima, Dr Shafat and Dr Madhu and nursing students—Bindu Sharma and Santosh Sharma, Shyama Sharma and Puneeta Rajput, Rubina Akhter and Neeta Verma and Geeta Sharma and Neelam Kousar participated in the quiz programme which was conducted by Dr Ajay Wakhloo, Dr G S Saini and Dr Subash Singh Slathia.

The quiz was chaired by Prof Indu, Prof Shashi Gupta, Dr Mohan Singh, acting Medical Superintendent of SMGS Hospital and Mrs Shankuntla, Principal AMT School. The function was attended by over 300 faculty, doctors and nurses.

Dr Monika Dullu and Dr Sunita Darvesh and nursing students Geeta Sharma and Neelam Kousar were declared first.

Addressing the participants, Dr D B Sharma, Head of Department of Pediatrics, said that most of the components of newborn care can be delivered at homes through primary care workers in a highly cost effective manner. He appealed all the participants for wide dissemination of their knowledge for serving the cause of humanity through proper care of the newborn.

Dr Sharma highlighted the components of essential new born care which includes universal antenatal care, delivery in health facility by trained personnel, care at birth including basic resuscitation, temperature protection, prevention of infection, early initiation of breast feeding and exclusive breast feeding for 4-6 months, extra care of low birth weight and sick babies, home care of sick babies, referral of those sick newborns who cannot be managed at homes, care of sick new born at health facilities and care during transport.

Teg hails Mufti’s steps for restoration of peace

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Jammu and Kashmir State Akali Dal (SAD) chief, Sant Singh Teg while welcoming the formation of new Government in the State headed by Mufti Mohammed Syeed, has expressed the hope that the new political dispensation will not only give a healing touch to the peoples’ wounds, but will also work tirelessly for the restoration of peace and normalcy in the trouble-torn state.

Addressing a press conference here this morning, he said the people of the State have suffered a lot during the past 13 years and they have high hopes from the new Government.

He also lauded Mufti Mohammed Syeed for electing Mr Trilok Singh Bajwa to Rajya Sabha and said that Sikh Community is hopeful that the CM will also redress other grievances of the community.

He said "I hope that the Chief Minister will give representation to the community in the Government in the proposed Cabinet expansion".

He said Mufti Mohammed Syeed is an experienced politician and knows well that Sikhs residing in Jammu and Kashmir have given many sacrifices in 1947 for the unity and integrity of the nation. It was due to their sacrifices that the State could be saved from the aggressors across the border.

He, however, regretted that the Sikhs who have migrated from Muzzafarabad, Poonch, Mirpur and other places in 1947, still crave for justice as they lead a refugee life with their claims unsettled.

While hailing the Government for releasing the political prisoners and militants, Sant Singh Teg hoped that this step will help in restoration of peace in the state. "The steps initiated by the Government will go a long way in bringing permanent and lasting peace to the State and resolving the Kashmir issue for which all concerned parties should be taken into confidence.

He also stressed for greater contact between people of J&K and those residing in Pak occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Urging the Pakistan President, Gen Pervez Musharraf to cooperate in holding the peace talks, he said besides Government of India, representatives of Jammu and Kashmir and people living in PoK including Gilgit and Baltistan be also included in these talks.

He also demanded that Government should fulfill its promise of reserving four seats for Sikhs in State Assembly.

Making a dig at the National Conference, he said the Government during its six year past rule failed to redress the problems of common masses and amassed wealth by looting state exchequer.

3-day Book Fair in Army School Cantt conclude

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Nov. 16: Three day ‘Book Fair’ and colourful Fancy Dress competition was Army School, Jammu Cantt that concluded today. The celebrations were held with traditional fervour and gaiety in the school.

Fancy Dress competition for primary students was the main attraction. Kunal Saini of Class-I, Kirti of Class II, Bhavneet of Class III, Naina of Class IV and Ankit of Class V stood first in their categories.

Gandhi House and Subash House stood first and second respectively in the Inter House Quiz Competition organised for juniors and seniors.

Another exciting event of the day was the ‘Book Fair’ on display were nearly 3000 books titles on wide ranging topics like Science and Literature Art and Culture, folk talks, languages and Indian states published by NBT, CBT, NISCOM, Sahitya Academy and Publication Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Students were quite fascinated by the world of books.

A special assembly was also held by the staff members to highlight the significance of the day and inspire the children to imbibe the high ideals of Chacha Nehru.

The school management felicitated the children and sweets were distributed among them.

A school remains non-functional in rains
Fear of building collapse haunts students, staff

By Gopal Sharma

JAMMU, Nov 16: They have been placed on the debris of doubts for no fault of theirs. They are nearly 150 students. And the strength of their teaching staff is 17.

Each one of them is not tension-free. Why ? They have got a building, which was declared unsafe about ten years back. The building houses a Govt High School, hardly 10 kms away from the winter capital city, on the Jammu-RS Pura road.

Out of the thirteen rooms, ten were declared unsafe by PWD (R&B) Construction Division vide letter No. 765-67 dated 3-9-1993. It was mentioned in the report sent to the head of the institution, Zonal Education Officer and the Chief Education Officer, Jammu that in the event of any mishaps, the concerned will be responsible for it.

Ironically, paying no heed to the warnings, the District Education authorities continued to use this building and allowed the students to sit inside for long ten years. The repeated requests of conducting repair and construction of new rooms by the people of the area and teaching staff were turned down by the Chief Education Officer and the higher authorities. The students and the staff have been forced to function there under hostile circumstances by the authorities.

The PWD engineers in their report after on the spot survey warned, " the building of Govt Boys High School, Brij Nagar can’t be used for any purpose and if some mishaps occurs, the concerned department will be responsible for the same. The said building was not even fit for repair work and new building is needed to be constructed." Hardly, 15 days back, a portion of the room cracked down when the school was functioning and the students inside the 9th class miraculously escaped unhurt. However, a peon, Mohinder Singh, sustained injuries on his head and shoulder. There was total chaos and panic as frightened students ran helter and skelter. Two rooms have already been locked. The office and the room of Headmistress is also said to have been declared unsafe by a team of PWD hardly two days ago. Not only the boys school, the building of Govt Girls Middle School, Brij Nagar is also at the verge of collapse. The authorities perhaps have turned a Nelson’s eye towards the burning problem of the students of this year. Their career is being jeopardised with the indifferent attitude of the Education authorities.

Village Sarpanch, Mr Ishar Dass told Excelsior that they have made several representations to the CEO, Deputy Commissioner, Director Education and even the ex-MLA of R S Pura. Nobody bothered to pay attention towards this genuine problem. " We send our children everyday praying God that they return home safe and sound after school hours," he said adding that not only parents of the children but the teaching staff and the students there are under tremendous threat of any mishap anytime.

Referring to the condition of rooms the Sarpanch said during rain, the water flows inside rooms through roof slab and students have to use umbrellas while sitting inside. But apprehending any mishap, the students are asked to move to their houses by the teachers. "We have also instructed our children not to stay at school during rains and prefer to sit in the open," he added.

Another villager, Krishan Lal pointed out that the MLA, Ram Chand never paid heed towards this genuine problem and moreover, NC Government perhaps ignored the area being Congress dominated. He further said that the school was constructed in 1960-61 and was Primary school. It was upgraded as High school in 1980-81. Since then hardly three more rooms were added.

The villagers, who accompanied the Excelsior team to the school, claimed that entire land was donated by the Sarpanch and other locals for Brij Nagar school. The locals had raised funds for the construction of rooms. The Government contributed only two rooms in this High School so far. The Education authorities were, however, kind enough to provide better teaching staff here, they maintained.

"It speaks of the criminal silence on the part of Education authorities which have left our children and the staff to the mercy of God. If any mishap occurs in the school, we will not spare the Administration and may go to any extent then and the Government will not be allowed to escape its responsibility," they warned.

The school staff when contacted spoke on the condition of anonymity that they have written to the higher authorities many times regarding the threat to the life of students and staff inside the building lying in shambles. "We have made the students to sit in the open under the shade of trees to run the school but in case of rain we can’t take such risk to push them in the jaws of death and prefer to send them homes. Moreover, the village heads have also asked us not to retain their children in the building in case of rain. During hot summer months, the children can not be made to sit in the open for long. It has become really a problem for us to run the school and face villagers, " they maintained.

Chief Education Officer, Jammu Mr VK Sethi when contacted said that he was aware of the problem of Govt High School, Brij Nagar. He said a proposal is being prepared to construct two new rooms for the school and the money to the tune of about Rs 3 lakh is expected to be released for the same shortly. He assure that he will look into the matter and take immediate steps for the repair or construction of the school. Director, School Education and the Minister for Education, Mr Harshdev Singh were not available for the comments.

Kawa celebrates 6th annual day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Kawa Institute of Management and Technology, a leading and fast growing institute in Northern India today celebrated its 6th annual day with enthusiasm.

Dr G D Sharma, former Secretary University Grants Commission (UGC), Head and Senior Fellow of Higher Education Unit of National Institute of Educational Planning and Administrator (NIEPA)-New Delhi and a prominent academician of international repute, was the chief guest on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sharma, who is also a consultant to UNESCO, UNDP and IIEP Paris, appreciated the programmes presented by the students and said that such programmes should be conducted in order to promote the cultural values among the student community.

Dr Sharma also stressed that institutions should try to inculcate moral values and multi-tasking ability in the students and appreciated the efforts applied by the staff members to organise such a good programme.

"Placement scenario is very tough and one has to work very hard in order to have good placement because the companies are looking for persons having multi-tasking abilities", he said but regretted that many institutions are not able to produce the same.

Dr Sharma further said "the need of the time is to produce employable people and in order to produce employable people we have to have a good infrastructural facilities, dedicated staff and good curricular".

Later, Dr Sharma distributed prizes among the participants, cricket players of GKR Memorial Sports Tournament—Gaurav, Kartik and Rohit. Mr M S Katoch, Chairman Kawa thanked Dr Sharma for attending the programme.

Earlier, the chief guest inaugurated the function by lighting the traditional lamp followed by students presented different colourful and entertaining programmes.

Chhamb DPs discuss demands

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: A meeting of Chhamb Displaced Persons Association—1971 was held here under the chairmanship of Mr S R Nagial, president resolved to prepare a comprehensive memorandum of pending demands of Chhamb Camp and Non-Camp Displaced Persons of 1971 and take up the matter with State and Central Governments.

As per a release the Association had through a memorandum asked the Government for permanent settlement and compensation for the losses of their properties left behind, but nothing was done so far.

He added that to rehabilitate the border displaced people an apex authority under the name "Chhamb Displaced Persons Rehabilitating Authority (CDPRA), Jammu was established by the Government of India with Chief Secretary of the State as its chairman and the Divisional Commissioner the chief executive officer of the said Authority.

The said CDPRA settled 4600 families who were duly registered in the Refugee Camps of Kishanpur and Manwal in Udhampur district at 129 DP Basties in Jammu and Kathua districts all along the border right from Pallanwala-Khour tehsil Akhnoor to Govindsar of tehsil Hiranagar.

The main demands of the Chhamb Displaced Persons of 1971 are immediate release of full and final instalment of cash compensation, in lieu of deficiency in allotable units of land in favour of DP families, preparation of supplementary list of left out DP families for payment of cash compensation, enhancement in the rate of cash compensation, grant of occupancy and tenancy rights over the Evacuee Land alloted to the DPs of 1965 and 1971 as has been done in the case of 1947 DPs.

Other demands included 10 percent quota to wards of Chhamb Displaced Persons of 1971 in Government jobs, educational institutions and other professional colleges, mutation of residential plots already alloted to the Chhamb DPs in various Basties, payment of cash compensation to those families who have been dragged into prolonged litigations for land disputes, payment of cash compensation not less than Rs 50,000 to each family who remained as landless till 1996 and Rs 1 lakh to those families who are still landless.

Mr Nagial assured the members of the Association that the matter will be pursued actively when a full fledged Minister for relief and Rehabilitation was installed in the State.

Centre announces various training courses
for ex-servicemen

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The Central Government has announced Ex-servicemen Resettlement Training Scheme vide Government of India, Ministry of Defence Letter No 1918/Bud/DGR/Adm/2251/2002/ I&C/D (Res) dated August 29, 2002 for continuance of the scheme for the year 2002-2003.

As per a release the scheme includes War Widow, widows, one dependent child of personnel whose death is attributable to military services may also be included under the scheme. A stipend of maximum of Rs 700 per month or actual expenditure whichever is less be paid to try ex-servicemen to meet their expenses on travelling and boarding.

This facility is also available to trainees who are undergoing training in Government institutes. Ex-servicemen, war widows, widows and dependents desirous of utilizing this facility may contact Zila Sainik Welfare Office, Ambphalla, Jammu for further guidance and advise.

The lost of approved courses include Three wheeler driving, Bank Recruitment coaching class, Bee-Keeping, Dairy, Handloom products trading and Gramudyog, House wiring, Rexine and leather works, short course in Mushroom cultivation and flouriculture, Poultary Farming and Cattle Management, Soap manufacturing, Tailoring and cutting, B&W/CTV Technology, Basic course in Computer Science Application, and scores of other entrepreneurship courses.

Para-medical students resent delay in courses

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The candidates seeking admissions in various para-medical training institutes have expressed serious concern over the delay caused in the commencement of their courses.

As per a release, a meeting of the students was held here today in which the issues related to the delay in the commencement of course and the lack of control of the State Medical Faculty on the admission process and the institutes were discussed. They pointed out that the courses in the Government, AMT schools have already commenced 2-3 months earlier while the students of several private institutes are left to suffer.

The students pointed out that the admission process in private Medical institutes be brought under one Government authority like the Competent Authority set up by the Government to conduct entrance and make selections for Medical, Engineering and other courses in different Government and private colleges.

Such process will streamline the functioning of the private institutions and it will also minimise the scope of alleged exploitation of the students. They also demanded that a permanent committee of the State Medical Faculty is required to be set up as most of the present members due to over burden of their present positions are unable to spare time for making them available for the interviews, inspections and the admission process. There should also be control on the fees being charged by the managements of these institutions.

The students sought the intervention of the Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Syeed into the matter and urged on him to constitute a permanent authority for the selection purpose.

Prizes given to lucky winners of Luminous
Inverter’s scheme

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Lotus Technologies today organised a function to distribute prizes among the winners of fabulous prizes which Luminous Digital Inverters had offered during its 10th anniversary celebrations.

Luminous Digital Inverter, country’s one of the latest selling brand of Inverter, had offered prizes like Fiat Palio, vacation in Thailand for two people, 50 Inverter’s and 10 colour televisions. In addition, one year extra warranty on every inverter purchased.

Draw of lots was held in New Delhi and only two customers from Jammu and Kashmir were among several lucky winners. The two lucky winners of one free inverter are Subash Gupta of Bakshi Nagar and T K Koul of Bhawani Nagar.

Both had purchased Luminous Inverters from the authorised dealer M/s Lotus Technologies, Karan Nagar. The prizes were given to the winners by Mr Joy Ganjoo and Mr Arun Rajesh, both partners of M/s Lotus Technologies.

BJP, JSM workers stage demonstration in Rajouri

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, Nov 16: The Bharatiya Janata Party and Jammu State Morcha workers held a demonstration here today to protest against the failure of successive Governments to redress the grievances of the people of Rajouri town. They also burnt the effigies of Director Notified Area Committee and Chief Engineer PHE.

The demonstrators were led by Messrs Vinod Gupta, district chief BJP, Yougesh Sharma another Party leader and Ashok Sharma, district president Jammu State Morcha (JSM).

Addressing the protestants they alleged that no attention has been paid for the development of Rajouri town in the past District Development Board meetings.

They said the roads and lanes are in a dilapidated condition, with drains chocked and garbage dumps lying at different places in the town as it has been totally ignored in the field of development.

The demonstrators expressed the hope that the District Development Board meeting which will be held in town tomorrow will take the stock of the problems of the people of the town and ear mark sufficient funds for the developmental works.

They also appealed the Chief Minister who is having his first ever visit to the town to tour various localities and take stock of the situation there.

They said the City faces a complete scarcity of water for last six years now as no attention has been paid to replace the 40 year old pipes. Same is the condition of electricity and people face the low voltage and power cuts problem throughout the year, they added.

They demanded that a community hall be constructed near Bus Stand and a dug well at PHE New Colony to over come the water scarcity. Besides a slaughter house be constructed in the town to give it rid of environmental hazards as the old one has been allotted by NAC illegally.

Lambasting the NAC authorities they demanded probe into the funds allotted to the Committee over the years by the Government.

They also demanded that the Education Department be grilled and the teachers who are posted outside for last 12 years be adjusted in their localities.

Doctor proposes, God disposes

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The introduction/arrival of Neurosurgical speciality in Jammu has proved to be a boon for the patients.

This was exemplified by a patient Ritika, who was treated at Maharishi Dayanand Hospital and Medical Research centre here.

The girl, eight years old, since her childhood, was getting recurrent attacks of brain infection and was admitted four times in Government Hospital here.

Reason for recurrent infection of brain was an existing communication by birth between brain and nose and brain water (CSF) was continuously dripping from the nose.

The MRI had revealed that a part of left brain was entering the nose through floor of the skull and leading to her continuous "nose running"

A marathon neurosurgical exercise lasting for over six hours was conducted by opening the skull and exposing the communication between brain and nose and then repairing the defect permanently.

Maharishi Dayanand Hospital and Medical Research Centre release issued here said that the hospital is a superspeciality and first of its kind and is committed to providing selfless service and first medicare to the ailing community of the State.

JSM MLA demands Spl recruitment drivefor border areas

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Jammu State Morcha MLA from Bishnah, Mr Ashwani Sharma has appealed the authorities to start special recruitment drive for unemployed youth of border areas.

Addressing series of public meetings at Treva, Kotacamp and other border villages, Mr Sharma assured that he would first priority to border area people. The MLA said he was aware of the problems of the border people and would take up their problems with the concerned authorities to get these mitigated.

Pointing towards border area problems Mr Sharma demanded cash relief for displaced border people. He demanded further that adequate compensation should be provided to them at an earliest to those farmers whose lands were mined by the Defence authorities.

Urging the authorities to announce a special package for border people, Mr Sharma advocated adequate compensation for border areas who have been serving the nation like soldiers. He also demanded de-silting of canals to increase irrigation facilities in villages.

Bajwa, Manjit felicitated

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: A Gurumat Samellan was organized at Digiana Ashram today under the patronage of Mahant Manjit Singh Ji of Shiromani Dera Nangali Sahib, Poonch, in connection with honouring Mr Trilok Singh Bajwa of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for his election as Member Rajya Sabha and Mr Manjit Singh of BSP as MLA Vijaypur constituency.

Both these political leaders were honoured with Saropas by Mahant Ji.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Rangil Singh, former Minister congratulated Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed for nominating Mr Bajwa as RS Member. He recalled that, earlier, such nomination to Sikh community member was given 50 years back by Sheikh Abdullah to Mr Budh Singh Tyagi.

Mr Rangil Singh stressed upon both these leaders to raise the issues concerning Jammu in general and Sikh community in particular in Rajya Sabha and State Assembly.

Speaking on the occasion , both Mr Bajwa and Mr Manjit Singh assured the people that they will come upto their expectations in raising the issues concerning the people.

Mahant Manjit Singh thanked all the dignitaries and hoped that these leaders will do their best for the betterment of the community.

Mr Sudershan Singh Wazir, president J&K State Gurdwara Prabandhak Board and Mr Gurdev Singh Isher, president Shiromani Akali Dal also spoke on the occasion.

Classes boycotted, demonstration held
JU students protest Prof Mattoo’s appointment as VC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: To lodge their protest against the alleged violations of rules in selection of Prof Amitabh Mattoo as new Vice-chancellor of Jammu University, the Campus students today boycotted their classes and held demonstration.

Shouting slogans against the State Government for making backdoor appointment of the Vice-Chancellor, the students - under the banner of Jammu University Students Welfare Association (JUSWA) - took out a procession on the Campus.

They were demanding review of Prof Mattoo’s selection and appointment of a local Professor as the new Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University. They also sought a clarification from the Governor Mr Girish Chandra Saxena over the issue.

Earlier, the activists of JUSWA assembled on the Campus and got classes boycotted. Raising slogans in favour of students’ unity and against Prof Mattoo’s appointment, the protesting students approached each and every PG department of the University and got the classes boycotted.

While addressing the protesters, JUSWA leaders alleged that by ‘importing’ an ‘unqualified’ person for the Vice-Chancellor’s post, the State Government was forcing the students to take to the streets and launch an agitation.

JU Students Cultural Secretary and JUSWA leader Mr Parveen Singh Lucky warned that University students may launch an indefinite stir over the issue even as today’s strike was a token protest.

He appealed to the University students to remain united and fight against anti-Jammu move of the Mufti Government. He also urged the Professors to come forward and support students for the genuine cause.

Mr Vivek Sharma and Babboo also addressed the students.

Meanwhile, Panthers Students Union (PSU) has urged the President of India and the Prime Minister to withdraw the nomination of Prof Mattoo in the interest of the identity and character of Jammu University.

A meeting of PSU was held today under the chairmanship of Vilakhshan Singh wherein the Campus situation, following appointment of Prof Mattoo, was discussed.

In a press statement, JKNPP national general secretary Mr Bharat Bhushan Kotwal has also condemned the appointment of Prof Mattoo as the JU VC and extended support to students protesting against the ‘backdoor’ appointment. He also appealed to JKNPP chief Prof Bhim Singh to intervene in the matter and get Prof Mattoo’s appointment cancelled.

Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad has also feared that appointment of a controversial person like Prof Mattoo on the post of VC would facilitate pro-militant activities on the Campus. By this appointment, Mufti Sayeed has thrust his anti-Jammu secret agenda which will pollute the academic atmosphere of the Campus, said a press release issued by ABVP.

Display Your Talent begins

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: " Display Your Talent", a programme of cultural and literary activities organised by the Students Welfare Department of University of Jammu commenced with on-the-spot painting competition on the Varsity campus here today.

Mr O S Sudan, Director, Colleges Development, University of Jammu, while inaugurating the programme said it was very useful in widening the vision and personality of the students.

First event in the series of programme is painting competition by the students drawn from various departments of the Jammu University and various colleges and other educational institutions in Jammu region. Thirty eight students are taking part in this contest. A theme for the painting has been selected and two noted artists Devi Dass and Bhushan Kesar were in panel of judges

Those adjudged best in painting contest are: Mr Syed Junaid, Archarya Sri Chander Medical College, Ms Rekha Mahajan, Govt College for Women, Prade.Ms Nitika Arora, PG Department of Education, JU secured top three positions. While two students Mr Kuldeep Singh Koushal, Govt M A M College, Jammu and Mr Surendera Dudeja of Harvard College of Education will get Certificate of Merit.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof R D Sharma said that such programme also have educational value and this mega event is an annual feature in high participation by the students.

He said that students from over sixty affiliated colleges and 32 departments of the varsity are taking part in the "Display Your Talent Programme". Mr Vijay Atri, Drama Instructor for Performing Arts and Assistant Registrar, Mr R C Gupta have put in lot of efforts in organising this event.

The Associate Dean, Prof Pritam Singh also spoke at the inaugural function and explained the main objective of the programme.

Mr Vijay Atri also spoke on the occasion.

Dr Rajive Gupta, chairman, Campus Committee, attended the function.

A large number of students were also present.

Earlier, the Director, Colleges Development, distributed mementos among those adjudged best in the Elocution contest on " Relevance of Gandhi and Vinobha in the Present Times". Mr Siddarth Bindroo secured first position while Gulfikar Ahmed and Anupriya Sharma obtained second and third position respectively.

In the debate contest on" Co-operative Movement" those who were adjudged best and given cash prize are: Ms Seema Kumari, Ms Sonashi and Ms Neena Marhatta.

Workshop on HIV/AIDS prevention held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The University of Jammu, Population Education Resource Centre conducted a training workshop for teachers educators from November 13 to 16. The workshop was sponsored by the UNESCO on HIV and life skills education.

According to a press release, the programme was inaugurated by Dr M A Wani, project director, J&K State AIDS Prevention and Control Society. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasised that there was a need to reach out to every corner of State to prevent the danger of AIDS. He outlined the objectives of HIV/AIDS and said that education was the only vaccine to curb the disease. The programme was presided over by Prof R R Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of the Jammu University.

Dr Poonam Dhawan, Director PERC voiced need for focusing upon care and support services besides prevention. She said that there was an urgency for building attitudes. The resource support was provided by Dr Shanker Choudhary, programme advisor, UNESCO. He facilitated mannual sharing prepared by UNESCO on scenario and response to HIV/AIDS.

Other resource persons in the workshop were Dr Bhupinder Singh, Dr T R Raina, Dr Sanjay Mehta, Dr Jamwal, Prof O P Baru, Dr Amar Singh, Dr Surinder Kour, Dr Diljeet Magoo and Dr Madhu Gupta.

Environmental issues must be addressed
on priority: Sharma

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: Two publications: " A Blue Pearl in Space" and another " Say No to Smoking" were released by Mr Mangat Ram Sharma, Deputy Chief Minister, at a function organised by the Society of Health Environment Education and Research, at Press Club here this evening.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sharma underscored the need for creating awareness among the masses about the serious problem of environment degradation and hazards of cigarette smoking. He deplored that the widespread deforestation and also pollution posing serious problems to mankind.

Responding to a point regarding the State Pollution Control Board, he declared that the Board will be geared up but it is the people at large who have to make sustained endeavours to keep the environs clean and forests green. The efforts by the voluntary organisations like SHEER can play an important role in controlling the menace of pollution and also carry on campaign against smoking.

Mr M Y Tarigami, MLA called for pooling resources to preserve and protect the healthy environment for the future of mankind. He pinpointed the hazards of smoking.

Mr S S Lehar, former president, Bar Association spoke about the aims and objectives of this organisation and called for effective implementation of anti-smoking, anti-pollution laws for fruitful results.

Dr Kuldeep Singh, who has published these booklets, highlighted the gravity of the environmental issues and need for global efforts. Mr B S Slaria, Advocate also spoke.

Ms Amrita Singh, a student of 9th class read a paper on hazards of environment and urgent need for remedial measures to control it.

Mr H S Gill presented vote of thanks.

Teachers’ 48 hour long hunger strike ends

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The 48 hour long hunger strike launched by Mr K K Kousal and supplemented by Pawan Kumar , Barkat Ali, Parshotam Sharma, Prem Pal Singh and C L Kachroo under the auspices of J&K United School Teachers Federation in front of Director School Education’s Office culminated today.

As per a release, a rally was also held today in which two hundred activists of the Federation participated.

The rally was addressed by Messrs K K Langer, Master Shiv Nath and Subash Chander the trade union leaders.

Mr Satish Sharma general secretary of the Federation called upon the Director School Education to settle all the demands which are under his competence and refer the other demands to higher authorities.

He warned that in case the demands will not be settled the Federation will be forced to launch the second phase of hunger strike in front of Minister of Education’s residence in the second week of January next year.

The Federation leaders expressed concern over the apathetic attitude of authorities towards the demands of teachers. They regretted that the authorities did not bother to listen their demands by visiting the venue of strike.

The employees also submitted a charter of demands to Mr R R Dubey, Joint Director under the leadership of Mr Satish Sharma.

J & K Bank employees take out protest rally

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 16: The employees of J&K Bank held a scooter rally here today to protest against what it termed the adamant and dictatorial attitude of the Bank management towards their legitimate demands.

As per a release, Mr Chander Mohan Jamwal, president of the J&K Bank Employees Association in his address strongly criticized the Bank Management for ignoring the long pending demands of the employees which include promotion of clerks and peons, increase in HRA outside the J&K State and payment of Disturbed Area Allowance to the employees working in Jammu Division on the pattern it was paid to the employees in Kashmir valley.

The general secretary of the Association Mr Mohan Singh lambasted the management for adopting unfair labour practices to harass and victimize the employees. He alleged the employees are being threatened of dire consequences if they take part in strike.

He warned the management that the employees will not be deterred by such threats and appealed all the members to make the strike a great success.

The All India Federation has given one day call of strike on November 18 throughout the country in support of the demands.

Mr Singh also alleged that the condition in J&K Bank as compared to other public sector banks was worst as the employees of the Bank are subjected to complete injustice. They are frequently being transferred to the remotest and militancy infested areas after every two years. But the employees in other banks remain posted in their home town branch throughout their service, he added.

He dared the management to change the Bank polices which are in force since its inception. The management feels handicapped in adjusting its blue eyed boys and with this sole intention wants to change the existing policy, he added.