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Reservation Bill in Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Minister for Social Welfare, Mula Ram today announced that the bill for granting reservation to the people belonging to Scheduled Caste category will be ....more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: One person was killed in road accident while as a labourer died in an accident at a stone crusher.Police spokesman said that a padestrian........more CM
announces grants for Basohli development Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Giving full credit to the people of the State and the coalition Government for creating a new atmosphere that led to far reaching moves for Indo-Pak friendship,.......more Qazi visits R S Pura, distributes relief among destitute Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 7: Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Qazi Mohammad Afzal today visited border areas in tehsil R. S. Pura which included ....more Complainant
to pay Rs 5,000 Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: In a rare case of its kind, a complainant who had filed a complaint with Divisional Consumer Redressal Forum, was penalized and directed to pay a sum of rupees 5,000 to the opposite ........more |
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Govt moots Rehbar-e-Zirat proposal for unemployed agriculture-technocrats Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Government have mooted a proposal to engage un-employed agriculture technocrats under Rehbar-e-Zirat Scheme. The proposal would be shortly submitted to the Cabinet for approval........more BJP
flays Cong, Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Pradesh BJP vice president and spokesman Prof Hari Om has expressed anguish over silence maintained by Congress and JKNPP on latest stand of Chief Minister that he cannot implement.........more Seminar
on World AIDS Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 7: World AIDS Day was organised by Health Services department in collaboration with J&K AIDS Prevention and Control Society at SKICC today. The Minister for Health and Medical ........more Noor-ul-Elm
holds Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Dec 7: Noor-ul-Elm Society, Leh, which was recently constituted, today held a Idd Milan Party, the first ever conducted in Leh. The Chief executive Councillor Thupstan Chhewang was the chief guest while others were councillors of LAHDC Rigzin Spaldar, Tsultin Phuntog, .......more |
Reservation Bill in next session: Mula Ram Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Minister for Social Welfare, Mula Ram today announced that the bill for granting reservation to the people belonging to Scheduled Caste category will be introduced in the State Assembly during the Budget session. Addressing a function organized by the All India Confederation of SC/ST Organizations here this afternoon, the Minister said that the draft of the same has been sent to Law Ministry and efforts are to introduce the Bill as early as possible. Denying that roaster system on reservations in promotions to members of SC and ST categories was not implemented by various departments, he asked the concerned members to identify the Department and Government will take action. He, while taking objection of the speech made by some members of the organization said every thing is done in accordance to law and not by passing it. Expressing concern over the statements made by some speakers he said such outbursts are not going to help in solving the problems but make the issues more complicated. Besides such speakers even bring bad name to the Confederation, he added. He suggested the leadership to behave rsponsibly as we all have to work together for the unity of the state and betterment of the people. He said the entire nation knows what this Government has done in one year and it was due to our efforts that President of India for the first time visited Kashmir this year in 13 years. Besides him Prime Minister visited the state twice and Chief Ministers conference was organized successfully in the Valley, he added. Addressing the gathering Assembly Speaker Tara Chand also took strong exception of outbursts of some members saying this can cause a setback to the cause. He said those blaming us should explain what they have done in last 55 years. The Speaker however assured the members of SC and ST community that their grievances will be solved. He assured them that the law providing reservations to the Community will be enacted by the Government soon, he added. The Minister for Science and Technology, Rigzin Zohra while sharing the concern of the SC/ST people admitted that some persons in the administration and Government were working against their interests. He urged them to exert pressure unitedly on Government to settle the issue. He said Congress is committed to reservations at national level and it will not divert from this policy at any cost. Minister of State for Agriculture, Aijaz Ahmed Khan who also took the exception to some speakers remarks against the Government said coalition is fully aware with the problems of the people belonging to these communities and already steps were taken to mitigate their problems. The former Minister and NC MLC Ram Paul who also regretted the remarks passed by some speakers assured full cooperation and support to the resolution moved by the Confederation. He also strongly defended the work done by the previous Government for the welfare of the down trodden people of the state and termed the allegations totally baseless. In his address the Confederation chief R K Kalsotra strongly warned those elements who wanted to sabotage the cause of the people belonging to the down -trodden communities by their misleading statements. He warned such people have no place in the Confederation which is wedded to the cause of SCs and STs in the state. He urged the Government to take immediate steps in solving the problems as put in the resolution. Among other speakers include Ch. Lal Mohammed] Sabir MLC and Gujjar United Front general secretary Shah Alam, its president Anwar Choudhary and Ramesh Ji, Lok Nath, Vijay Malhotra and Thoru Ram. Some speakers criticized the working of the present Government saying the ministers were looking silent spectators and doing nothing for the benefit of the community. They even asked them to quit in case they have no time to work for the down-trodden comments. They said that the new Government was in no way better than the previous one so far as the cause of SC and ST communities is concerned. They said the Rehbar-e-Taleem and Rehbar Sehat schemes were against the reservation policies and harming the cause of communities. Earlier a memorandum highlighting the demands was handed over to Minister by Mr Kalsotra. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: One person was killed in road accident while as a labourer died in an accident at a stone crusher. Police spokesman said that a padestrian was killed when he was hit by a speeding and unidentified vehicle at Barnai. He was spotted in pool of blood by some vehiclists, who rushed him to Government Medical College Hospital after informing Domana Police. But he was declared brought dead by the doctors. The body was, later, handed over to family members for last rites after all legal formalities. The deceased has been identified as Lazi Ram, son of Ghouri Ram of Barnai. Police has registered a case in this connection and further investigations were on. Meanwhile, a labourer—Bal Krishen Rai, son of Govind Rai of Jharkhand, was killed after he met with an accident at JK Stone Crusher at Bantalab under the jurisdiction of Domana Police Station. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. A woman—Munera Begum, wife of Bashir Ahmed of Gool died under mysterious circumstances. She was rushed to hospital with critical injuries and was pronounced as brought dead. Police has initiated proceedings under Section 174 CrPC. Meanwhile, the death toll in Chenani resident has risen to 11 with two more injured succumbing to their injuries at Government Medical College Hospital today. They have been identified as Bal Krishen, son of Prem Nath of Pancheri and Bodh Raj, son of Shiv Ram of Batta Doda. |
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announces grants for Basohli development Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Giving full credit to the people of the State and the coalition Government for creating a new atmosphere that led to far reaching moves for Indo-Pak friendship, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today urged Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to explore possibilities of arranging meetings of divided families along Kishenganga in border areas of Kupwara district till the formal launch of Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service as agreed to by both the countries. ‘Some sort of a ferry service in river Kishenganga that serves the border in Karnah area of the Valley, should be considered with some border posts on both sides so that members of the divided families can meet each other’, he said and referred to the recent visits of people to river bank who standing on both sides of the river exchanged greetings, expressing desire to swim across to meet each other. The Mufti was addressing public meetings at Bani, Malhar and Machhedi, far-flung and backward pockets of Kathua district today as part of his effort to reach out to the people in every nook and corner of the State. The meetings jointly organized by Congress and PDP, were also addressed by Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma and Chief Whip of Congress legislature party, Prem Sagar Aziz, who is also the local MLA. The Chief Minister also distributed job letters to newly selected teachers in these areas. In his speech, Mufti Sayeed said that longing for friendship among the people living on both sides of the border is so strong that the local Sub-Divisional Magistrate received a message from his distant relation from across the border that either he should come across the river (border) or they would come to meet him. He said thanks to cease-fire, the border which was out of bounds for civilians in view of frequent shelling, now gives a festive look with members of the divided families reaching upto the bank of the river and exchanging greetings, even hurling candies, biscuits, sweets and messages. The Chief Minister urged the Prime Minister to take note of such unprecedented sentiments of the people for friendship that are the manifestation of his (PM’s) bold initiatives and pro-people policies of the coalition Government in the State. He said, he would speak to the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister and request them to include ferry service in Kishenganga also in the confidence building measures. He said, he would request Mr. Vajpayee to take up this issue with his counterpart during his impending visit to Pakistan in connection with SAARC summit. He said this is a clear message to everyone that people want peace and protagonists of violence and gun would become irrelevant if they continue to work against the current. The Mufti said the coalition Government has a special reason to be happy over the developing situation and thaw that has been created in Indo-Pak relations because it had been relentlessly working for it. He said his Government has created the situation conducive for peace moves within Jammu and Kashmir and with Pakistan. He complimented Prime Minister for putting the bitter past behind and extended hand of friendship to Pakistan from soil of Kashmir and said this peace initiative is now blooming and brightening the possibility of a lasting Indo-Pak friendship. He said the peace process went on step by step and now even APHC is preparing for a dialogue besides Pakistan. The Chief Minister had a word of advice for gun-totting youth too. He said ‘why do you spill blood of your own people when there is no cause for fight’, he said and added when separatist organizations and Pakistan have agreed to talk to the centre to find a lasting solution to the problem, why don’t they leave the path of self-destruction. The Mufti said that the change in the situation is because of our healing touch philosophy that has not only touched the hearts of people but has also been widely acclaimed all over the country and even by international agencies. Responding to the demands made by Mr. Prem Sagar Aziz, the Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs. 37 lakh for black-topping of 24 km uncovered road stretch from Sukrala to Machhedi. He also announced upgradation of Lohai middle school to high school level. This school was upgraded to middle school level in 1965. He also announced construction of additional two rooms for Government higher secondary school at Malhar. He also announced construction of 20-bedded Yatri Niwas at Bani to promote tourism in the area besides upgrading forest rest house and a park at Mazerri, Bani. He assured the MLA that he would take up the matter with the centre for early completion of Basohli-Bani-Bhadarwah road by Border Roads Organisation. He also assured to consider construction of 8 km stretch of Bani-Dhaggar road by R&B. Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma, who once represented this constituency, also addressed these meetings. He said Bani area, which is the beneficiary of two Prime Ministers, Mrs. Indira Gandhi and Mr. Rajiv Gandhi and two Chief Ministers, Syed Mir Qasim and Mufti Mohammad Sayeed would be developed from tourism point of view. He said he would bring the Tourism Minister to the area and explore the possibilities of making beautiful places as tourist destinations. Mr. Sharma said that they are in the Government only because of the people who voted them to power for peace and development. He said true to our commitment, we are taking the State towards normalcy and economic development. In his speech, Mr Prem Sagar stressed the need for creating more job opportunities even as army has recruited about 200 youth at Machhedi and plan to recruit more in other areas. He also demanded tehsil status for Bani. He demanded that road from Sarthali to Bhandar via Sitti be taken up under PMRY. He pleaded for early completion of Basohli-Bani-Bhadarwah road and said that it should be extended to Chamba that would open up the whole area. Senior Congress leader Mr. Darshan Sharma and Kathua district PDP President Gurprasad also addressed the public meetings. This was Mufti Sayeed’s first visit to the area after becoming the Chief Minister. He was given a tumultuous welcome by the people at all these places. |
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Qazi visits R S Pura, distributes relief among destitute Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 7: Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Qazi Mohammad Afzal today visited border areas in tehsil R. S. Pura which included Kalyana, Rathana and Dablehar. He interacted with the inhabitants and enquired about the problems faced by them. Addressing a gathering at Kalyana, the minister reiterated the Govern-ment’s resolve to provide all possible facilities to the people residing in far flung and border areas of the state. He said the government is committed to mitigate their sufferings by its healing touch policy and bring peace and prosperity in the state. The people apprised the minister of various difficulties being faced by them which included the destruction caused by Kalyan Chohi Nallah in recent past. Mr. Afzal assured to construct protection bund on the banks of the nallah shortly. On the occasion, the minister distributed relief among the deserving families. MLA, Shanti Devi and senior officers from various departments accompanied the minister. |
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Complainant to pay Rs 5,000 Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: In a rare case of its kind, a complainant who had filed a complaint with Divisional Consumer Redressal Forum, was penalized and directed to pay a sum of rupees 5,000 to the opposite Party (National Insurance Company) for the forced litigation, after former’s complaint was dismissed and treated as frivolous. Mushtaq Ahmad of Upper Ploura Jammu had filed a complaint against National Insurance Company before Divisional Consumer Redressal Forum Jammu for settling his insurance claims as his Vehicle Tata Sumo bearing number JK01-2360, which was insured with the company, had met with an accident while on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. His complaint was, however, dismissed as the Forum was of the opinion that the complaint should fail on the solitary reason that the driving licence of one Mohd Arif, who was driving the vehicle at the time of accident, had expired on July 11, 1998, while’s the accident had taken place while the driver was holding the invalid licence. It was further stated that the licence of the driver was renewed on May 31, 1999 to May 30, 2002. " Obviously, the insured owner of the vehicle was aware that the driving licence of Mohd Arif had expired on March 17, 1999 when the vehicle fell down into river Chenab while being driven by this driver. It is, therefore, amply clear that the driver had not renewed his licence and the same came to be renewed after two and a half months from the date of the occurrence of accident and nine months after its expiry on July 11, 1998", the Forum order said. It said that fully aware that the driving licence of the person whom he had handed over the vehicle to be driven on the fateful day didn’t have a valid licence, the owner permitted his vehicle to be plied by a person who held an invalid driving licence and still engaged the Insurance Company into unnecessary and unwarranted litigation. " He didn’t only stop when his previous complaint was dismissed on August 28, 2001, but filed a writ petition in the High Court for indemnification , but was directed to approach the appropriate Forum and again filed the second complaint", the Forum order said. It pointed that it has been established that the complainant filed a frivolous and vexatious litigation , due to which the opposite party had to engage Advocate not only in previous complaint and writ petition, but in this complaint as well which is unnecessary burden on the public exchequer. Under such circumstances the complaint is dismissed, the Forum directed while imposing a fine of rupees 5,000 on the complainant to be paid to Insurance Company through cheque or demand draft within a period of one month. Advocate Vijay Gupta Bharati appeared for National Insurance Company while’s Advocate Rupak Ratta appeared for the complainant. |
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Govt moots Rehbar-e-Zirat proposal for unemployed agriculture-technocrats Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Government have mooted a proposal to engage un-employed agriculture technocrats under Rehbar-e-Zirat Scheme. The proposal would be shortly submitted to the Cabinet for approval. "Coalition Government is keen to provide jobs to the educated un-employed youth particularly professionals in a phased manner and formulation of Rehbar-e-Zirat Scheme is a step in this direction" the Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Abdul Aziz Zargar said today while talking to a deputation of the employees of horticulture department who called on him this morning to seek redressal of their problems. The deputation was led by the State President Horticulture Employees Association, Ghulam Hassan Baigh. Mr. Zargar said that coalition Government is aware with the problem of un-employment among the trained agriculture graduates and a comprehensive proposal has been formulated to engage them upto maximum possible extent. For this purpose, he said all possibilities would be explored to increase the staff strength in the horitiuculture department. He said area under horticulture cultivation has increased to 2.5 - lakh hectors as against 13000 hectors in 1970 which warrants increase in staff strength. This step would also help to provide jobs opportunities to the trained agriculture graduates as well, the Minister added. |
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BJP flays Cong, JKNPP over non-implementation of CMP Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Pradesh BJP vice president and spokesman Prof Hari Om has expressed anguish over silence maintained by Congress and JKNPP on latest stand of Chief Minister that he cannot implement Wazir Commission Report because it involves an expenditure of crores of rupees. Prof Hari Om said silence on their part has created wide-spread disappointment and dissatisfaction among people of Reasi, Kishtwar and Samba (Bahu) and strengthened their belief that Congress and Panthers Party leaders are interested more in promoting their own interest than honouring those pledges which induced the innocent electorate to return as many as 19 Congressmen and JKNPP to the State Assembly. He said leaders of both the parties could be legitimately accused of subverting the people’s mandate and batering away the genuine interests of their constituencies. The BJP leader accused the Chief Minister of adopting totally indifferent attitude towards the problems being faced by people of Reasi, Kishtwar and Samba and advancing arguments against implementation of Wazir Commission Report. Prof Hari Om said it was a matter of regret that the Chief Minister has no regard for the sensitivity of grossly ignored people of Samba, Kishtwar and Reasi. He expressed hope that Congress and JKNPP leaders would rise to the occasion and force the PDP leadership to implement that part of the Common Minimum Programme. He warned them that any failure on their part to do so would further discredit them. |
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Seminar on World AIDS Day organised at SKICC Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 7: World AIDS Day was organised by Health Services department in collaboration with J&K AIDS Prevention and Control Society at SKICC today. The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Ch. Lal Singh presided over the function. Director Health Services, Dr. Muzaffar Ahmad Khan, Project Director AIDS Control Society, Dr. M.A.Wani, Dr. A.R.Malik, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad, Dr. A.R.Mattoo and Dr. B.A.Ghash addressed the seminar. Speaking on this occasion, the Minister said that the dreaded disease AIDS has come from outside world to our country and this disease has not developed on our soil. He said that ours is a country of priests, saints, sufis and spiritual personalities and there is an ancient history of high moral character, modesty and human values in our country. But, he said, unfortunately we adopted western culture and we taught our younger generations the lesson of modernism, which resulted in destruction of our civilization and culture. He said that while discussing AIDS in our families and in our society, we don’t feel any kind of shame or shyness, instead we deliberate upon the causes, the effects and the treatment thereof in open seminars and debates. We also do not feel it awkward in publishing the advertisements in local and national papers nor do we feel it bad to broadcast and telecast the ill effects of AIDS and its prevention. Stressing upon the doctors and para-medical staff to work dedicatedly and sincerely, Mr. Chaudhary said that the medical profession is most noble and respected one. He said that a patient who consults a doctor for treatment of his ailment has lot of faith and confidence that he will be given best attention he deserves and also valuable prescription by the doctor concerned. He advised the medical professionals "Be noble and affectionate while dealing with ailing humanity and behave humanly while performing your duties". He said that there is not much risk in other professions but a tiny mistake of a doctor can kill a patient. Referring to the migration of medical staff to abroad, Mr. Choudhary expressed his concern and appealed them to serve their motherland wholeheartedly as they belong to this soil and they are supposed to serve their own brothers and sisters instead of earning huge salaries in foreign countries. . |
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Noor-ul-Elm holds Idd Milan party Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Dec 7: Noor-ul-Elm Society, Leh, which was recently constituted, today held a Idd Milan Party, the first ever conducted in Leh. The Chief executive Councillor Thupstan Chhewang was the chief guest while others were councillors of LAHDC Rigzin Spaldar, Tsultin Phuntog, Ghulam Abbas Abidi, Norboo Gyalson, Ladakh Union Teritory Front president Tsering Dorje and heads of other religious organizations and prominent citizens. Mr Thupstan Chhewang speaking on the occasion said that Ladakh has a rich culture and Ladakhis have protected it since long by respecting each others faith and way of living. He said that the traditional culture of mutual understanding and communal amity should further be strengthened. The Idd Milan organised by Noor-ul-Elm Society was a big gesture towards this end. He further said that we should not observe complacency in celebrating our ancient cultural activities but should celebrate them more enthusiasm, which alone can strengthen our relations. Society chairman Molvi Omar Nadvi said that the objective of constituting such a society was to promote education, strengthen communal amity and help deserving students by providing them monetary benefits and remove social evils. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Maharaja Hari Singh Agricultural Collegiate School Nagbani, held its annual function today in which education Minister Harsh Dev Singh was the chief guest. Education Minister applauded the students for their performance and promised to do a lot for school students. He said that schools should be taken to villages so that J&K could become a State with highest literacy rate. He said private schools are a ray of hope which can change the destiny of the nation. He expressed his Government’s resolve to revive entire educational scenario during the six year’s tenure of the coalition Government. Mrs Sneh Mahajan, Director PS-II DAV College Management Committee, New Delhi, presided over. Capt Dewan Singh, Prof I S Rathore and M L Maini, all members of local managing committee of MHAC were among the august gathering. Tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh heralded the day’s programme. The march past led by boys and girls of the school followed by the four squad saluted the Minister as they filed past. The achievements of the school in the field of academics, sports and cultural activities were highlighted in the school’s annual report and it was declared that school has shown 100 percent and 94 percent result in classes 10th and 12th CBSE exams. Most of the students of this school find placement in reputed professional colleges, it was revealed. Vedic Mantras were chanted pronouncing the spirit of peace, happiness, love and tolerance. The feelings of co-operation and understanding were the the thoughts that filled the air as the programme ushered in. Mrs Sneh Mahajan in her presidential address said that she was greatly impressed by the programme and asked the management to invite President of India to the school in future. |
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4th coordination committee meeting of agriculture production organised Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 7: The 4th Coordination Committee meeting of Agriculture Production was held here yesterday under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production, B. R. Kundal. The Director Sericulture Development Department, Jammu presided over the meeting. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kundal highlighted the objectives of holding such coordination meeting of Agriculture and allied sectors so that inter departmental issues are sorted out and on spot decisions taken for implementation of various programmes of the government for the overall welfare of the farmers. He expressed satisfaction for conducting of mass awareness camps in rural areas of Jammu division. He said that shortly an Agriculture Conference and Mela would be organized here, wherein farmers of Jammu division will participate and the concerned departments would jointly display the activities for the benefit of the farmers. He also stressed on good governance in terms of punctuality in offices at district and block levels so that technical guidance is always available to the farming community. He directed the officers to pay frequent visits to the field units, record observations and ensure follow up. The Director Sericulture in his welcome address apprised that 38 awareness camps have been organized so far by various departments and suggested to increase the frequency/number of such camps in future. He said that district officers could formulate a calendar for the conduct of mass awareness camps in each district at their level and also invite public representatives of the area in such programmes. The Director Agriculture informed that during the current year 940 Kissan Credit Cards were issued by various banks. She said that various district officers would take up this issue with their District Development Commissioners and Lead Bank Offices and sort out the difficulties in the issuance of Kissan Credit Cards. During the meeting various measures related with Agriculture, Horticulture, Sericulture, Animal & Sheep Husbandry were discussed. |
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Mufti Govt begins non-friendly acts, says Bargotra Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: State president of Janata Dal (Secular), Dhan Raj Bargotra said that Mufti-led coalition Government has started non-friendly acts against the people of the State. Addressing a public meeting at village Sagown in Dansal block, Mr Bargotra said the department of PDD has stopped people friendly power cuts and instead started night cuts after 5.30 pm to 9.30 pm which is proving detrimental to the studies of students and domestic household work. Mr Bargotra demanded appointment of teachers at newly upgraded high school Sagown. Zonal president Chatto Ram, Krishan Lal and Romel Singh also addressed the meeting. |
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Artists seek CBI probe into ‘wrong’ installation of DD Jammu relay towers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Smelling a conspiracy in poor signal by relay transmission towers of Doordarshan Kendra Jammu, Jammu Artists Action Committee has demanded a CBI probe into wrong installation of transmission towers. "Notwithstanding the 60 MW capacity of DD Jammu transmission towers, its signal gets weak even at Nagrota and does not reach twenty kilometers," alleged Mr Mohan Singh Slathia, secretary of the Artists Committee while addressing a press conference, here today. He alleged that the DD signal was weak only because of wrong installation of relay transmission towers and also apprehended a conspiracy by anti-Jammu people behind this. He also demanded a CBI probe to establish the reason behind poor signal and identity guilty persons. The renowned Dogri writer also alleged that despite granting a ful-fledge status to DD Jammu, there was no adequate infrastructure with the Kendra. "Further funds allocation is also not proper and we feel that all this discrimination is a part of anti-Jammu attitude of the people who are at the helm of affairs," he added. Accusing Doordarshan Kendra Jammu of seizing Rs 75 lacs of free lance producers, the Action Committee warned agitation if the process on commissioned programmes was delayed further by December 31 "Rs 75 lacs of 750 free lance producers who have filed proposals for commissioned programmes and deposited Rs 10,000 as non-refundable processing fee, each applicant, have been rendered seized without processing further on allotment of works to the applicants," explained Mohan Singh. He lamented that while the current financial year was approaching to its closure, no process was yet initiated on allotment of production works. Convenor of Jammu Artists Action Committee, Mr Parveen Kesar, who was also present in the press conference, warned agitation if the process is delayed further by December 31. |
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Two-day workshop on AIDS awareness begins at Commerce College Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: A two-day workshop on AIDS awareness was inaugurated at SPMR College of Commerce, here today. Organised by NSS unit of the college in collaboration with Co-ordinator NSS Jammu University, the workshop was attended by 200 NSS volunteers from various colleges of Jammu region. Three lectures on AIDS awareness were delivered today by Prof V K Kapoor, Dr Amar Singh and Dr D S Jamwal. Prof Rita Munshi, Principal of SPMR College, welcomed the guest while Prof Ajit Angral, NSS Programme Officer, presented vote of thanks. Niaz for judicious use of power Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Dec 7 : As a sequel to exploit state’s huge hydel potential, about 250 micro hydel projects are proposed to be set up in different parts of the state for achieving self sufficiency in power generation. Out of these, 12 such mini projects have recently been okayed by the coalition Government headed by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. This was disclosed by the Minister for Power, Mohammad Sharief Niaz while addressing a largely attended public meeting at Patel Chowk Nowshere yesterday. One such project has been sanctioned to be set up at Thandapani near Sunderbani and another for Chingus, the Minister added. He also announced a power house to be named after Master Beli would also be set up in Nowshera assembly constituency in recognition to the marvelous services rendered by the veteran leader during past 40 years. The Minister urged the people to make judicious use of power till the new projects are commissioned in order to reduce the power cuts and improve the voltage. The Minister said that 7 new electric transformers of different capacity have been installed in the tehsil and six sub stations are being augmented this year. He also addressed a public meeting at Bajabain near Sunderbani. |
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Alumni Association meet held at JNV Nud Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: The fourth alumni association meet of JNV Nud was held in the premises of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Nud today with gaiety and fervour. Many ex-students of this JNV participated enthusiastically in this function to relive their yester-years which they spent in this residential institution as its proud students. The atmosphere was charged with sentiment nostalgia as each ex-student seemed to be overwhelmed with emotions that were written large on their faces. Welcoming the students, Principal Sudip Bajpai said that such alumni meets held cement the bond between the alumni and alma meter. Some ex-students too spoke on this occasion. JNV Nud, many of them emphasised, was not merely a school but a home away from home. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: A meeting of general council of Chib Biradari was held at Kuldevsthan Baba Baba Dharam Chand Ji, Nud-Da-Khu, Tehsil Akhnoor under the chairmanship of Th Kartar Singh, president, Nud Committee. The chairman general council Mr Jai Singh Chib gave the road map of the meeting to the members. Different points regarding the general council were discussed and finally main stress was laid on the drafting of By-Laws of the Biradari. Prominent speakers were Sat Paul Singh, Col S S Chib, Balwant Singh, Isher Singh, Hakim Singh and Chhinju Singh. The Biradari decided to met again during the month at Devsthan Nud. NMC demands release of DA instalment Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Mr Subash Shastri, president National Mazdoor Conference has reiterated his demand for constituting 6th Pay Commission prior to Lok Sabha election. Addressing a largely attended NMC workers rally at Bomyal in Nagrota, Mr Shastri urged the Prime Minister to clarify stand on setting up of 6th Pay Commission. Other demands highlighted in the rally pertained to release of 4 percenmt DA due from July this year before Christmas as also release instalments of COLA in favour of Public Sector employees. |
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Army organises medical camp at Manjakote Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Dec 7: With the sole aim to provide health facilities to the inhabitants of backward border areas, Army organised two days free medical camp at border town of Manjakote. This camp was organised by the Army under Operation Sadhbhawana. Large number of villagers from Manjakote, Hayatpura, Sarola, Kukora, Thandapani and adjoining remote villages attended the medical camp. About 3000 patients were examined in this two days camp by the specialist doctors both from the Army and civil administration. Chief Medical Officer, Rajouri has also made arrangements for the camp and provided a team of doctors for this camp. Patients sufferings from number of ailments like TB, skin deceases etc were examined and treated in the camp. Lady doctors examined women folk and educated them about solution of their problems. In the camp, local people were also educated about the dental care and how to keep their environment hygienic and clean. For the inhabitants of these border areas, veterinary doctors were also present in the camp who examined about 250 cattle and treated them. Medicines were distribute free of cost in the camp. Earlier inaugurating the camp, Brigadier of the local Army formation said that sole aim of organising this camp was to provide medical facilities of the local people. He assured the people that Army will organise these types of camps in other areas also. Locals hailed Army and local administration for organising such a camp and hoped that these types of camps will also be organised in future also. |
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JD (U) demands 33 percent reservation for women Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: State Janata Dal (United), chief, Sanjesh Gupta strongly criticized the coalition Government for hiking the power tariff and demanded that the decision be revoked immediately. Addressing a one day conference of Party Women Wing, he also demanded implementation of Wazir Commission report and appointment of chairman to Accountability Commission. He, while welcoming steps taken by the Centre in restoration of peace said the recent cease-fire will help the normalization of situation on borders. This will provide a succor to border people who were disturbed due to shelling from Pakistan. He assured full support to the women wing of the organization in highlighting the demands put forth by it. He said JD is the progressive organization which has always worked for the cause of the oppressed and suppressed people including the women. Earlier women Wing chief Asha Koul demanded 33 per cent reservation be given to women in the Parliament, state legislature and local bodies. The party also passed a resolution in which the decision of State Government to amend the Panchayat Act by giving 33 percent reservation to women was welcomed. The conference was also addressed by Dr A K Khuru,secretary general, Ved Parkash Bhagat, senior vice president Shamima Begum, Ms Kiran, Chaman Lal, Chairman Migrant Cell and Bashir Ahmed chairman, Backward Cell. Delhi Artists’ Show opens at Viraj Art Gallery By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 7: Three day exhibition of guest artists from New Delhi, opened at the Viraj Kala Kendra, here today, as part of programmes being held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Late Vidya Rattan Khajuria, the well known artist of the country. Considered as one of the pioneers of modern art in state, Vidya Rattan Khajuria hailed from Gurah Slathia. Initiated in the field of art as a painter, he took to sculpture after his academic training at the Faculty of Fine Arts, M.S. University, Vadodra, and later taught sculpture at Institute of Music and Fine Arts, Jammu and Srinagar till his premature death. Today, best remembered for his works in stone, Viday Rattan who was a practioner of ‘art for art sake’ idom created sculptures in wood and stone which explored pure aesthetic configurations. Winner of National Lalit Kala Award, he was instrumental not only initiating number of local students in modern sculpture but also influenced many artists in diffenert parts of the country including, Patiala, Gwalior, Bhuvneshwar etc. Organised by Raj Bharti, director, Viraj Kala Kendra, the annual events to celebrate the memory of artist included poster competition on AIDS, clay modeling competition, artist camp and today’s exhibition of guest artists from New Delhi. The final programme of the event, a seminar on art, will be held tomorrow at the Abhinav Theatre. The art exhibition held in collaboration with Centre for Contemporary Arts, Jammu, has on show works of painters like Harish Srivastva, Ramesh Rana and sculptures of Raj Kumar Panwar and Pushpa Devi. The paintings of both the painters are mainly landscapes. Harish Srivastva’s ‘mountainscapes’ present simplified mountains forms which seem to be dissolving into vast horizons. The works inspired by Himalayas, bring to fore the subtle underplay of the spiritual in nature. Harish Rana’s landscapes are poetical ‘rockscapes’. With a deft use of textures and warm colors, he imbubes diffenert moods in his works. The works of Raj Kumar Panwar and Pushpa Devi, the husband and wife duo, include small size creations in bronze and ceramics. Raj Kumar Panwar’s work have a distinct presence due to the combination of metal with ceramics. The figurative sculptures are stylized expressions that show artists’ innovations in terms of volume, shape and surface texture. Inaugurated by Salim Beg, Director General, J&K Tourism, the exhibition was also attended by Ramesh Mehta, Secretary, Cultural Academy and many artists and citizens. The luminous self governs whole Universe: Swami Paul Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Taking the next step in the ongoing serial havan performance programme under Shyama Sammaoha Havan Samaroha consisting of 101 havan performances at different places, the 27th havan was performed by Swami Paul at one of disciple’s house here. Addressing the gathering, Swami Paul said that the mind has the capacity to transmit the radiance of the luminous self to the whole universe. It served somewhat like the sheet of a glass that transmits physical light to opaque objects, he elaborated. Swami Paul said that when a person dreams during sleep, his sense of organs lose the power of perception, the motor organs of the power of action, the body, the power of sensation and the mind, the power of volition, but the luminous self which keeps awake, guards the body like a sentinel, while the mind and the organs are fully at rest. "Luminous self being illuminated by the light of consciousness of Atman is the only source of life and lights up the entire world. The self, the witness of all changes is changeless, birthless, growthless and is inseparable from the self of universe. Luminous self, the soul of all souls dwells within each and every individual as the inmost self, which is consciousness of all that are conscious, which is eternal in the midst of non-eternal", he said, adding that the luminous self governs the creative energy of cosmic soul in molding the diversified universe out of the gross material elements. Swami Paul said that the prana, being inherently unconscious, cannot be self-acting. It functions only in contact with the luminous self. "Animation is ever associated with consciousness. Pure consciousness is at the root of life and doesn’t derive from life. It is because the self is distinct from the organs, which are instruments of varied perception. It is the indwelling luminous self that hears through the ears, sees through the eyes, speaks through the mouth, works through the hands, thinks through mind and enlivens through vital principle, there is one constant entity, the knowing self". According to Swami Paul, at the back of every finite centre of consciousness is all-pervading consciousness, the self of universe. What is innermost in the universe is the innermost in every individual. A wave is essentially one with the boundless mass of water that the ocean is, though apparently differentiated from it by name and form, he further added. Governor inaugurates Armed Forces Flag Day Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 7: The Governor, S K Sinha (Retd) has lauded the role of armed forces saying that they have played a crucial role in the history of our country and have not only been guarding the borders against external aggression including proxy war, but have also been assisting the civil population during natural calamities. Inaugurating the Armed Forces Flag Day at Raj Bhawan, here today, the Governor said that our soldiers while devotedly responding to their call of duty, many have got martyred or grievously wounded becoming disabled and infirm. Their rehabilitation and assistance to their deprived families is a sacred national obligation, he added. Chief Secretary Dr Sudhir S Bloeria was also present on the occasion. It was disclosed that a record collection of over Rs 10 lakh has been registered this year as compared to last year’s collection of Rs 7.35 lakh. The ceremonial pinning of flags to the VVIPs and VIPs was also done On the occasion, the Governor presented trophy to the Deputy Commissioner Udhampur for making collections more than the target fixed for him. Zila Sainik Welfare Officers of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Srinagar were also awarded medals for making maximum collections towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. By Gopal Sharma It may sound incredible but it seems to be true that many stone crushing units in the state have turned more powerful as despite State Pollution Control Board and the court orders, they continued violating the norms and carrying on their illegal activities. While Himachal Pradesh Government managed to close down more than thirty stone crushers at Damtal, near Pathankot along Jammu-Delhi National Highway for causing high level of pollution, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir appears to be more soft towards the violators. It is interesting to note that despite closer orders to several units here in the State, they continued thriving their activities without seeking NOC from the Board. It has been found in some cases that Minister for environment and forests came to the rescue of several unit holders and they ceased to bother about their bleak future at the cost of life risk to many souls in their respective areas. The stone crushers association members of Jammu alleged that unit holders in Kashmir have been given six months time to install pollution control devices and take all necessary measures like creation of wind walls, water spray sytem etc but the unit holders in Jammu division were being harassed by the Department of Forests and Environment and the PCB. The Minister, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din took Rs 25,000 each from the unit holders of Kashmir as counter gurantee with the directions that if they failed to fulfill the criteria within prescribed time frame, they will lose their money. But on the other hand, unit holders of Jammu region were being discriminated as no such time was given to them and were served several notices of closure. It is interesting to observe that in district Udhampur and Jammu, several unit holders who went to High Court for some relief or stay could not succeed and they again knocked the doors of the Minister and some how managed to get green signal from his ‘court’. The documentary evidence made startling disclosure that how these units especially from district Udhampur, managed to manipulate the things and get relief from Minister even after the existence of SRO 194 of dated 23-6-2003. While the case was sub-judice in HC, the violators—official’s nexus discovered the new passage of getting relief and carring on illegal activities. Not even a single unit holder has duly signed the representation to the Minister, which is legally must for any appeal or seeking relief. Even one JK Stone Crusher owner of Reasi who had also gone to High Court, moved application to Minister’s court Oct 21, 2003 and managed to get relief on the same day. The PCB and the aggrieved party was not called for their comments. If such practice goes on those at the helm of affairs will never do justice to the coming generations and the entire environment. They are the real culprits who deserve severe punishment from the Judiciary which has done wonders in the country by saving crores of people from the brunt of increasing level of air and water pollution. Chairman State Pollution Control Board, Mr S D Swatantra when contacted said that out of the total 16 stone crusher units existing in Udhampur district, thirteen were issued closure orders for creating high level pollution and violating siting criteria and norms. Nine of them went to High Court and failed to get relief from the court. The PCB is after them and the Board will take strict actions as per existing laws against them in the interest of the general public. He declined to comment when asked about intervention of concerned Minister and any relief provided to them. Mr Swatantra, a senior cadre IFS officer said Pollution Control Board has passed on the orders to the concerned District Magistrates and now it is their job to implement the Board orders. He said the Jammu unit holders could not plead their case through Association or through one platform properly and thus failed to get some time. He admitted that in view of the expansion of Jammu city, several old units existing for the last more than 2-3 decades have come closer to the residential areas. They are demanding compensation and allotment of land at some alternatives sites. He further admitted that most of the units do not have no objection certificate from the SPCB and therefore, carrying on their activities illegally. The Chairman further disclosed that as per the sitting criteria fixed for the safe operation, a stone crusher should be 750 mts from National Highway in plain areas and 500 mtrs from National Highway in sub-mountaineous roads, 500 mts from State Highway, District and other roads in plain areas and 350 mts from Highway and other district roads/ link roads in sub-mountaineous areas. According to PCB guidelines, a unit should be at a distance of at least 5 kms from Jammu and Srinagar Municipal limits, 3 kms from major district headquarters, 1.5 kms from nearest residential area, 1.5 kms from nearest tourist complex or resort, 500 mts from any forest land, one kilometer from approved water supply of 20 k.lt, Nursing home, hospital, health centre, 500 mts from nearest agriculture fields/ orchards and at least 1.5 kms from nearest Education Institution. He said apart from these guidelines, it was also made mandatory to develop green belts, wind breaks to contain dust particles and install water sprinkling system. 4 gamblers arrested by Bishnah Police Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 7: Police today arrested four gamblers and recovered Rs thousands of rupees from their possession. Police spokesman said that a police team led by SHO (DySP probationer) Manjeet Kour raided a hide-out and arrested four gamblers. An amount to the tune of Rs 3000 was recovered from their possession. They have been identified as Darminder Singh, Raj Kumar, Rajan Kumar and Parveen Kumar. All have been booked under Gambling Act. It is worthwhile to mention here that sharp decline has been registered in gambling in Bishnah for the past some months due to the strictness of the SHO Manjeet Kour under the supervision of SP South Bhupinder Singh. |
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