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| US conceived solutions to Kashmir are Pak friendly: Aijaz Ahmed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Various solutions to Kashmir problem, being proposed in official and semi official circles in the United Nations have fanatic tones and tend to be much closer to Pakistani position.....more VDC
member commits suicide Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Two persons were killed and three others received severe injuries while as a Village Defence Committee (VDC) member committed suicide.........more LAHDC
gives priority Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Dec 8: Every High School and Higher Secondary school of Leh district would be provided with multi-purpose.......more CMC
constituted to monitor resources, expenditure Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: The State Government has, during the first half of the current financial year, received a Central assistance of Rs. 1890....more Mufti
calls for generous Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today called for contributing generously towards the Armed......more |
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Impressive
show By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 8: Chromatic splendor of semi-abstract photo-paintings at the Abhinav Art Gallery impressed every body right from the Governor, Lt. Gen (Retd) S.K. Sinha to the school kid present at the exhibition which opened here today.........more SRINAGAR, Dec 8: Accussing Jammu and Kashmir Government of "turning a blind-eye" towards their problems, Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley today threatened to launch an indefinite hunger strike from Sunday if their grievances were not redressed by December 14..........more Yaseen
orders early Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: A delegation of displaced people of 1947 led by R.K. Raina today called on Minister for Revenue, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen and putforth various demands. The delegation urged the Minister for immediate allotment of land for the ........more SKUAST-J
approves Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Jammu today finalized and approved the design for future planning and development of the main campus of the University, which would be developed........more |
US conceived solutions to Kashmir are Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Various solutions to Kashmir problem, being proposed in official and semi official circles in the United Nations have fanatic tones and tend to be much closer to Pakistani position. This was opined by Professor Aijaz Ahmed, Senior Editorial Consultant of ‘Frontline’ magazine and Visiting Professor, Centre for Political Studies, JNU, while delivering Safdar Hashmi Memorial Lecture at Jammu University, here today. "All the proposals in discussion with world body have been developed by American think tanks and strategists close to the US administration and are sought to be imposed from above without ascertaining the wishes and aspirations of J&K people,"he explained. Prof Ahmed alleged that every solution emanating from United Stated, tends to be much closer to Pakistani positions than to the positions of Indians. "By floating solutions such as disintegration of J&K on communal lines for merging Jammu and Ladakh with India and changing orientation of Kashmir valley towards Pak occupied Kashmir, US is siding with Pakistan," he alleged. Prof Ahmed cautioned that weakening of the link between Kashmir valley and Jammu region was not in interests of the State as well as India and it may prove dangerous for integration of the country. "Ours is a diverse society and we have to find ways of living together," he stressed. Cautioning India against drawing closer to the United States, the eminent political analyst said that India must keep its broader interests in mind as the only super power was imposing a global regime of neo-liberalism in which sovereign States of Asia and Africa can not pursue independent economic policies. Topic of the lecture, organised by MA Urdu Professional Course, JU, was ‘The New Imperialism and Its Political Implications. Referring to American hegemony over rest of the world, Prof Ahmed said that the new imperialism by US, which has no economic or moral rival, creates a very dangerous situation in which there is no external check on the exercise of US power. "The United States has notified the world time and again that it will fight its war in dozens of countries, in pursuit of what it perceives to be its own national interest, without any regard for international consensus,"he said and referred to the US invasion on Iraq. Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo, who presided over the function, said that old imperialism was balanced while the new prevailing imperialism was lop sided in which rampant decay of will to resist against tyranny in on increase. Rise in fundamentalism and mixing of religion with politics is coming up as a potent challenge to the modern world, he added. CPIM leader and MLA, Mohd Yusuf Tarigami, who was the chief guest, said that Jammu and Kashmir has strategically been of crucial importance to the imperialists all along due to its geography and history. British imperialism was responsible in carving out the historic State of Jammu and Kashmir, out of diverse ethno-cultural identities and this was done simply to administer the territory by keeping common people under suppression, he explained. Mr Tarigami stressed that the only way to fight the new game of imperialism lies in strengthening the unity of Jammu and Kashmir based on justice and fairness. On the occasion, five journalists from print and electronic media were honoured with Safdar Hashmi Memorial Awards. Prof Aijaz Ahmed presented the awards to Ashok Sodhi of Daily Excelsior, Ajay Puri of Siti Cable, Ajmer Alam Wani of Kashmir Times, Yamini Koul of Kashmir Times and Nishikant Khajuria of Daily Excelsior. Earlier, Prof Zahur-ud-Din, incharge MA Urdu Professional, JU, welcomed the guests and threw light on the life and work of Safdar Hashmi. Dr Shohab Inayat Malik, compered the proceeding while Prof Lalit Magotra presented vote of thanks. |
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VDC
member commits suicide Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Two persons were killed and three others received severe injuries while as a Village Defence Committee (VDC) member committed suicide. Police spokesman said that one person was killed and three others received severe injuries when a Maurti car bearing registration number JK02N-7337 hit with the wall of a culvert at Maledroth under Rajbagh Police Station. On the receipt of information, a police party swung into action and started rescue operation. All were rushed to District Hospital Kathua where doctors pronounced one of them as brought dead. The injured were, later, shifted to Government Medical College Hospital for specialised treatment. Their condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. The deceased has been identified as Rameshwar Singh, son of Shamsher Singh of Bishnah. The injured are Pushpa Chib, wife of Karam Singh of Trikuta Nagar, Sunita, wife of Gosh Sing of Katly and Vashno, wife of Gopal of Bishnah. In another road accident, one Sohan Lal, son of Agaya Ram of Taida in Hiranagar was killed after he was hit by a speeding tractor trolley at Hiranagar. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. Meanwhile, a Village Defence Committee (VDC) member—Romesh Kumar, son of Rakhi Ram of Gadyog committed suicide by shooting himself with the weapon issued to him in the capacity of VDC member. It could not be ascertained as to what prompted him to take this extreme step. Body of a police constable—Bushan Kumar was recovered from near Haloon Temple in Gandoh tehsil. He was posted at PP Bharthu. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident and started investigation to ascertain the cause of his dead. One Suran Chand, son of Des Raj of Pragwal allegedly consumed poisonous substance at his residence. He was rushed to hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. Doctors attending on him immediately provided him stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. His condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. |
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LAHDC gives priority to education sector in review meet Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Dec 8: Every High School and Higher Secondary school of Leh district would be provided with multi-purpose halls, hostels and Science laboratories in next few years. This decision was taken in two-day general council meeting of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), which concluded on Sunday. It was resolved that Rs 3 cr will be provided to the education sector to implement the schemes during next financial year. It was discussed in the meeting that Rs 8.84 cr is being spent on Education sector for giving an adequate education infrastructure for the good schooling of the children. It was felt that the funds sanctioned were not sufficient for carrying on constructions of multi-purpose halls, hostels, science labs, additional rooms for existing schools etc. It was also decided that some amount of non-priority sectors would be squeezed to complete such works. The Hill Council in its review meeting also gave priority to the development of horticulture and Pashmina products to boost the economy of the people. Chief Executive Councillor Thupstan Chhewang concluding the meeting urged upon the district officers to maintain financial discipline for ensuring accountability and transparency in implementation of works so that the aspirations of the councillors are fulfilled. |
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CMC
constituted to monitor resources, expenditure
JAMMU, Dec 8: The State Government has, during the first half of the current financial year, received a Central assistance of Rs. 1890 crore including Rs. 740 crore (57 per cent) of budgeted plan allocation and Rs. 1150 crore as special additional assistance. The Government has, during this period, booked a plan expenditure of Rs. 1221 crore. This information was given at a mid-term budget review meeting held here yesterday under the chairmanship of Minister for Finance and Planning, Muzaffar Hussain Baig. The meeting was informed that in addition the State has, during this period, received Rs. 395 crore as the share of central taxes amounting to 49 per cent of the budgeted allocation. The Government has till October 31st this year made an expenditure of Rs. 1221 crore under the plan head and Rs. 2800 crore under the non-plan head, the meeting was told. The meeting was informed that due to the fiscal reforms initiated by the present Government, the State has not sought any advance assistance from the Centre. Traditionally, the State Government has been seeking advance assistance from the Centre in the month of July every year. The Government has also not lifted any institutional loans till date enabling it to make huge saving on interest payment. The meeting also decided to constitute a Cash Management Committee (CMC) to ensure proper management of cash flow and expenditure and avoid liquidity problems. Headed by Economic Advisor to the Government, Dr. Haseeb Drabu, the Committee would have Principal Secretary Finance, Director Accounts and Treasuries and a representative of J&K Bank, as its members. The committee would review the financial transactions with the Jammu and Kashmir Bank with a view to reduce and monitor the overdraft facility. It will also take a review of the bank accounts of the Government departments and corporations to rationalize and streamline their transactions. A specific issue would be the monitoring of power receipts. The committee would monitor flow of revenue receipts and expenditure on day-to-day basis, ensure rationalized and prioritized plan and non-plan expenditure. It would also monitor funding of corporations and meeting of budget targets. The committee would ensure that no liquidity problem arises during the next three months when lot of bunching of expenditure takes place due to the closure of the financial year. |
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Mufti calls for generous
contribution towards
JAMMU, Dec 8: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today called for contributing generously towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund so that various schemes launched for the welfare of security force personnel and their families are implemented expeditiously. The Chief Minister was interacting with the senior functionaries of the Sainik Welfare after making donation towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund here this morning. He said the occasion should not only be a ritual but the campaign for raising donations has to be sustained by associating people at large in this endeavour. He said many of our valiant soldiers have made their supreme sacrifice and it is our duty to contribute for welfare of their families. Mufti Sayeed emphasized that not only the target of Rs. 34 lakh fixed this year for collection towards the Fund in the state has to be achieved, but efforts need to be redoubled to exceed it considerably. The Director Sainik Welfare, Jammu and Kashmir, Brig. (Retd) K. S. Kotwal presented a brochure to the Chief Minister brought out on the occasion. He also apprised Mufti Sayeed about the activities of the organization undertaken for the welfare of soldiers and their families. Gulchain Singh Charak, MLC and President Ex-Services League Maj. Gen. (Retd) G. S. Jamwal were among those present on the occasion. |
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Impressive show of photo-paintings at Abhinav By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 8: Chromatic splendor of semi-abstract photo-paintings at the Abhinav Art Gallery impressed every body right from the Governor, Lt. Gen (Retd) S.K. Sinha to the school kid present at the exhibition which opened here today. In a visible display of the power of creative experimentation, the works by photo-journalist and staffer of Indain Express, Naresh Sharma are marked by airiness and aesthetic aura which imbues nature, especially its commonplace floral and faunal manifestations with a poetic empathy. Called by Naresh Sharma, micro-photo paintings, these artistic works which not only enlarge the conventional perspective about photography but also present a successful adaptation of new technology like computers in creating new forms of artistic expression. The forte of the photo-paintings lies in the element of transformation to which details of flowers, foliage, fruits, dew drops etc. are subjected to the painterly eye of Naresh Sharma, who wields his computer like a brush. Semi-abstract character of photo-paintings wherein one encounters new possibilities which hitherto were hidden due to the limited operations of our eyes emerges as unique characterstic. Attended by large number of media personalities, legislatures, artists, literatuers, artists, art students and prominent citizens, the exhibition was inaugurated by the Governor. Speaking on the occasion the Governor said that though photo-journalism art are not much closely related but Naresh Sharma has exhibited his creative genius in his photo-paintings. He said that we see and observe many things daily but tend to forget them and it is only a creative and artistic mind that makes such common things uncommon. He said that Sharma has captured such day-to-day things in camera and presented these before us in attractive art forms. Earlier speaking in his welcome address, Ramesh Mehta, Secretary, Cultural Academy, said that it is occasion of great joy as the Governor who is also the Patron of the Academy is visiting the Academy for the first time. He gave details of the forthcoming programmes being organised including artist camps, art exhibitions and Kala Mela. Harsh Vardhan, well known artist and member of national Lalit kala Akedemi, New Delhi, also spoke on the occasion. The exhibition organised by Cultural Academy and North Zone Cultural Center, Patiala will remain open to the visitors from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. up to Dec 14. |
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SRINAGAR, Dec 8: Accussing Jammu and Kashmir Government of "turning a blind-eye" towards their problems, Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley today threatened to launch an indefinite hunger strike from Sunday if their grievances were not redressed by December 14. "Government has promised to mitigate our problems but nothing was done. We have decided to launch an indefinite hunger strike from December 14 if the Government does not come out with concrete and positive decisions within this period", general secretary of Hindu Welfare Society, an organisation of Kashmir Pandits, S K Tikoo said today. He said the decision to go for fast unto death from December 14 was taken at a meeting of the party at its headquarters at Barbarshah. We have been forced by the Government to take such a harsh decision, Tikoo said, adding on the one hand Government is talking of returning of Kashmir Pandit migrants to the Valley but on the other nothing is being done for those staying back. About meetings between his party delegation had with Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Revenue Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yasin, he said promises were made only to be broken. Failure of the Government to implement its promises clearly show lack of sincereity on its part, he said. We are finding ourselves at the cross-roads, Tikoo said, adding Government may be waiting for another carnage so that leftover members of the community are forced to leave valley. Among the list of demands were employment package for the youth of Pandit community, clusterisation of the community and treating displaced members of the community within the Valley at par with the migrants. (PTI) |
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Yaseen orders early disbursement of relief
JAMMU, Dec 8: A delegation of displaced people of 1947 led by R.K. Raina today called on Minister for Revenue, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen and putforth various demands. The delegation urged the Minister for immediate allotment of land for the construction of community hall in Jammu, for which Rs. 8.50 lakh have already been sanctioned. Allotment of plots at Kherian in Jammu for displaced people was also demanded. The Minister directed Secretary Revenue and Provincial Relief Officer to look into the matter and take appropriate action to resolve the issue immediately. Responding to the demand for release of balanced ex-gratia in favour of the displaced people, the Minister asked the concerned authorities to expedite the disbursement process and ensure that the relief goes to the genuine persons. He asked them to furnish the utilization certificate to the centre so that the Union Government sanctions more funds. Earlier, the Minister held a detailed discussion with the representatives of Kashmiri migrants for their honourable return to the Valley. Representatives of 162 Kashmiri migrant families from Sawalgam and Kulgam of district Anantnag who have already volunteered to go back to their homes, demanded immediate repair of their houses. |
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SKUAST-J approves design
for future Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Jammu today finalized and approved the design for future planning and development of the main campus of the University, which would be developed at village Chatha. A high power committee under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Mr H U Khan after hectic and detailed discussion for two days, approved the design. Competition at the national level had been invited for planning and designing of the main campus at Chatha and in response six number of offers were received. The jury comprising of Mr P R Mehtha, president, Council of Architect India, Prof V P Raori, former Principal School of Planning and Architect, New Delhi, Prof I J S Bakshi former Principal, School of Architect and Planning, Chandigarh, H R Magotra, Chief Architect, J&K Government, Vinod K Malhotra, Chief Town Planner, Jammu, V K Soi, comptroller, SKUAST Jammu and K K Gupta, Estates Officer SKUAST Jammu deliberated the issue. It was also decided to have an advisory committee for the micro planning of the campus to discuss necessary details with the architects of the project. The main campus at Chatha would accommodate the Academic Complex for various faculties of the University, Administrative block, research laboratories, central library, hostel for students, sports complex, guest house for the visiting scientists and residential accommodation for the staff. |
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BJP launches signature campaign
against Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Pradesh chief, Dr Nirmal Singh while lashing out at State Government alleged that instead of fulfilling the poll promises, it has added to the miseries of the people by enhancing four fold the power tariff. He also accused the Government for its failure in reducing the power cuts as promised during the electioneering. Addressing the Party workers while launching the signature campaign against the power tariff hike, Dr Singh said soon after assuming the office, the Chief Minister had promised to solve the problem, but during its one year’s rule no improvement was made in the system. The signature campaign was launched by Jammu District Urban BJP headed by Kavinder Gupta. BJP chief said instead of solving the problem the Government has put extra burden on the people asking them to install the meters on their own. Terming the decision totally anti people , he said it will encourage corruption. He also alleged that the people of Jammu will be more hit by this unpopular decision as the entire revenue comes from this region while the consumers in Kashmir were not paying the arrears even. Lambasting the Finance Minister, BJP chief said he dictates terms to Jammu people as Kashmiri rulers are considering the Jammu as their colony. He while demanding equal treatment with Jammu region urged the Government to implement the Wazir Commission report. Ridiculing the statement of Panthers Party chief, Prof Bhim Singh on Wazir Commission, he said the NPP supremo was hoodwinking the people. Addressing the gathering, BJP general secretary and ex MLA Ashok Khajuria accused the coalition for its failure in solving the peoples problems. He also termed the alliance between Congress, PDP and Panthers Party as a criminal nexus. He warned that the BJP will launch a decisive battle against the anti people policies of the Government and demanded that the decision be immediately withdrawn. Party district chief Kavinder Gupta said the campaign will be launched from door to door to seek peoples signatures against this un popular decision by BJP men and the same will be produced before the State Governor. He also made a strong dig at State Government for night power curtailment saying that it will expose people to lot of risk. He said BJP will not tolerate such anti people decisions and Party will collect over two lakh signatures in Jammu district Urban alone by launching a door to door campaign to be presented before the Governor. Terming the decision totally unjustified Kavinder wanted to know how a person who is given Rs 1500 under Rehbar-e-Taleem as salaries can pay such a huge amount as power tariff. He urged the people to make the campaign a grand success. The BJP leaders warned if Government failed to revoke the decision the Party will intensify the struggle. Among the other Party leaders who participated the signature campaign include, Rakesh Bharti, Mohan Lal Sharma, Suresh Gupta, all Vice presidents, Subash Jandial and Shiv Kumar general secretaries, Munish Kumar, Sulekha Chowdhary, Mahila Wing chief, BJYM state chief, Anil Parihar, Raj Rani, Antu Kotwal, Munira Begum and Babita. |
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J&K State Consumer
Protection Council meet Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Minister for Consumer Affairs and public Distribution Taj Mohi-ud-Din has underscored the need to constitute a regulating body comprising academicians, social activists, NGOs and consumers to regulate and oversee all matters connected with setting up and working of private educational institutions in the State. The Minister was addressing a meet of J&K State Consumer Protection Council here today. Taj observed that education is the fundamental right of every citizen and said that both Governmental and private educational institutions are doing commendable service in providing the quality education to the students. He expressed his displeasure over the functioning of some of the private schools for commercializing the otherwise noble profession. He said most of the consumers use to pay exorbitant fees and other charges in return poor standard of education imparted by them. With the constitution of a regulatory body, the better functioning of such institutions would be insured, he maintained. The Minister stressed that the required infrastructural facilities with sufficient accommodation, qualified staff and other facilities in the private educational institutions as per the guidelines of the -Government would be ensured for shaping better citizens. Taj said that the coalition Government is committed to provide better education to the students especially for those living in far-flung areas of the State. He said a new legislation- The J&K School Education Act’ 2002 was passed in April 2002 with a view to help achieve ‘universilisation of elementary education’ and to provide a better organization and development of school education in the State. During the deliberations, representatives of various consumer organizations put-forth their suggestions for ensuring quality and better functioning of the private educational institutions. They demanded that each private school must display/notify the fee structure of their respective institutions as per the guidelines of the Government. Among others, the legislators Ms. Farida Muneer, G.S. Jamwal, Commissioner/ Secretary Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution R.K. Jerath, Directors CA&PD, Preetpal Singh Betab and Abdul Hamid, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Chairman BOSE J.P Singh, members of State Consumer protection Council and senior officers of Consumer Affairs attended the meet. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Senior vice president of Pradesh Congress Committee Peerzada Mohd Syed in a meeting with PCC president Ghulam Nabi Azad discussed organisational and political matter and the ways and means to strengthen the party so that programmes and policies of Congress could be implemented for providing people the effective democratic process in the State. During interaction Peerzada discussed thread-bare the problems being faced by Gujjar and Bakerwal community an demanded re-constitution of the Gujjar and Bakerwal Advisory Board immediately for drawing comprehensive programme to ameliorate their socio-economic plight. He apprised Mr Azad that coalition Government is fully determined to implement the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) in letter and spirit, adopted by the present Government for equitable development of the State. Peerzada said to strengthen the democratic institutions and to ensure women participation in Panchayats at the grass root level, women have been granted 33 percent reservation and have also been given the right to vote, while taking decisions at the village level. Peerzada demanded for conducting public meetings in the State to make the programmes and policies of Congress a success for peace and prosperity of the people, who have been traumatised in the turmoil ridden State. He emphasised for protection of life and liberty of the party workers. PCC president Gulam Nabi Azad expressed satisfaction over functioning of coalition Government and showed his appreciation for maintaining transparency and accountability. He said that the present Government headed by Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed was very much successful in improving law and order situation in the State with active support of the coalition partners. |
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Evaluated answer scripts to be
delivered to Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Minister of State for Education Mr Abdul Rehman Veeri today announced that Government with the view of increasing credibility and examination system has taken a decision that photocopies of the evaluated answer scripts could now be delivered to the candidates of class 10th and 12th on demand after declaration of the results. These answer scripts could be obtained after applying of it in the office of Joint Secretary Education, on a payment of a fee of Rs 150 per paper. The instruction would come into force from session October-November 2003 in Kashmir division and from the session March-April 2004 in Jammu division. The Minister was addressing a review meeting of the department here today. Secretary Education, Mr M.M. Bhat and various other higher officials of education department attended the meeting. Mr Veeri said that students have the right to obtain their answer sheets in case they feel dissatisfied with marks obtained. The step taken would help strengthening the efforts of establishing healthy academic atmosphere in the State, he added. The Minister took a review of developments taking place under various plans implemented in the direction to improve the literacy rate and educational standard in t he State. Special emphasised was laid on Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, the scheme witch ensure that the State could obtain 100 per cent literacy rate by the year 2007. The Minister said that with over 5000 schools and EGS Centres opened during first year’s tenure of the Government, a fresh survey for the current literacy rate must be conducted. Asserting that a single type design for the school buildings of primary, middle and higher secondary level must be developed to avoid ambiguity on the issue, the Minister s aid that multi-story buildings wit proper light and air circulation in all the rooms should be designed and constructed throughout the State. The Minister also said that strict instructions have been issued for the heads of all the schools to maintain proper hygiene, which is a very basic requirement for an educational institution but is usually found lacking in Government run schools. Mr Veeri said that provisions are being made to provide buildings for all the schools working in the rented buildings. Laboratory, library and sports requirements of the schools are also being fulfilled completely in phased manner. |
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Harsh inaugurates book exhibition Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Minister for Education Mr Harshdev Singh today inaugurated the book exhibition organized by the Government College for Engineering Technology, Jammu. 16 publishers from across the country participated in the 3-day exhibition with special focus on latest text relating to engineering subjects. While inspecting the exhibition, Mr Harshdev Singh said that such large-scale display of latest books provides an opportunity for the students as well as the lecturers to select the study material of high standards, suiting their requirements. The books from the exhibitions will not only be chosen for GCET Library even the students would have a chance to buy good books at discounted rates with the consultants of their teacher, he added. The Minister asked the college authorities to strive for introducing latest job oriented subjects in the college including Environmental Engineering and Information Technology related courses. He s aid that GCET is a prestigious professional institution of the State and Government is making every effort to develop it on the most model lines matching the global standards. Later, the Minister had a meeting with the Registrar, Principal and heads of the departments of the college and discussed various issues relating to the college management. He asked for detailed proposal for the requirements of the students of the staff and college. He said that all efforts are being made to ensure speedy completion of the new building complex of the college, which is coming up in an area of 800 kanals of land in Jammu. |
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Ban on use of polythene in Dal lake Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 8: As a part of cleansing famous Dal lake from pollution, a ban on use of polythene bags has been imposed in and around the lake by Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LWWDA). This has been decided in a meeting of the representatives of various NGOs held under the chairmanship of Vice Chairman lakes and Waterways Development Authority, Ms. Tanveer Jahan. The ban will come into effect froth-with and any violation will strictly be dealt with by LWWDA in coordination with the representatives of various NGOs. The meeting discussed other issues pertaining to rehabilitation of Dal dwellers. Coordination among various departments like UEED, SMC, Viz a viz Dal Conservation and watershed management of Dal catchments. |
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Two bodies of graduate engineers’ merge together Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: The All J&K Degree Engineers Forum headed by Gandeep Kumar and other allied groups of graduate engineers in a meeting here today merged in All Jammu and Kashmir Graduate Engineers Association (Civil) led by M A Tak and constituted a new state body. The new body will fight for the interests of graduate engineers and against the anti cadre policies of the Government, an Association handout said. The meeting elected Mujib Ahmed Tak as its state president while N D Khawaza was elected state senior vice president. Rajesh Bhagat and Tariq Sofi were elected vice presidents. Gandeep Kumar was elected general secretary while Rajinder K Sharma and Qazi Javed were elected secretary and joint secretary respectively. Ashok Tandon, Altaf Ahmed, Braham Jyoti Sharma, Zulfikar Malik and Sanjay Nagpal were elected as chief organiser, organiser, treasurer, publicity secretary and office secretary respectively. The meeting urged the Government to issue the promotion/placement orders for all the available vacant posts of all the cadres in the R&B and Hydraulic wings of the Public Works Department strictly in accordance to SRO 209 of 1992. It demanded that no undue quota be given to any particular class/section thus depriving the genuine and deserving candidates. It also demanded regularisation of all the engineers from AE to CE level, immediate withdrawal of Finance Department Order No 169 of 2003, running grades in favour of all the graduate engineers as being given to doctors and separate grades to graduate engineers at entry level as JE Grade 1. |
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Shopkeepers of Patta Bohri, other areas hold meet Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: A meeting of shopkeepers Association Bohri Patta, Udheywalla, Anand Nagar, Om Nagar and Paloura was held here under the chairmanship of Kuldeep Singh Raja. The main problem discussed pertained to power cuts during evening hours due to which the shopkeepers and students were suffering equally. Other problems related to conditions of lanes and drains,,worst condition of road leading to Anand Nagar which was constructed barely five months ago. Association chairman appealed all the residents to remain united and hoped that the present Government would see through the reason and order an immediate action to mitigate the sufferings of the concerned people. Association decided to meet again next Sunday, the December 14 to discuss about the future mode of action. Other prominent persons who attended the meeting included Swatantar Sharma, Sham Lal, Manoj Gupta, Bansi Lal, Ramesh Chander Sharma, Bhabhi Ji, Pappi, Piddi Shah, P K Koul, Rimmy Raina and Ajay Gupta. |
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Sher-i-Kashmir Brigade distributes blankets Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Dec 8: On the occasion of birth anniversary of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the Sher-i-Kashmir Brigade, Kathua, distributed 300 blankets amongst poor Gujjar and Bakerwals. The function was held under the chairmanship of S Surinder Singh at Brigade Office Hatli-Morh, Kathua. Mr Singh while addressing stated that the programme was in tune with the long cherished dream of Late Sheikh Abdullah for upliftment of the poor and down trodden people of the State. He said Sheikh Abdullah always fought for poor people and mitigate the sufferings of the toiling masses, farmers, labourers, Gujjar and Bakerwals. He said it was due to his works that he is called Sher-i-Kashmir till today. The function was was held to commemorate and remember the dreams of Sher-i-Kashmir. On the occasion Brigade general secretary Surinder Gupta and Gujjar leaders addressed the gathering. Rich tributes paid to martyrs of armed forces Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Dec 8: Rich tributes were paid to the martyrs of the armed forces during the celebration of Army Flag Day by 14 Corps here today. A befitting ceremonial arms display was exhibited at historical polo-ground Leh. The brass band retreat of Ladakh Scouts, dog show, Sadhbhawana camp, canteen services and army medical camp were other features of the celebrations. Thousands of people throng polo-ground to witness the show, every celebrated by the 14 Corps whose existence was come into Ladakh few years back. Prominent among locals were president Anjuman-e-Immamin Haji Ghulam Hussain and president Ladakh Buddhist Association Tsering Samphel. Officiating GOC 14 Corps Major General Rakesh Dass was the chief guest on the occasion and in his address, he highlighted the significance of the Army Day and said that it is celebrated to commemorate the high valour of brave men, who sacrificed their precious lives while defending the country and protecting its integrity. Giving a brief about Ladakh Scouts, Gen Dass commended this Regiment for their courageous role displayed among others in Kargil war. Major General Dass felicitated the people of Ladakh for their role in cooperating the Army in defense of the country during Kargil imbroglio. KPs to return on
recognition of their claim Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Panun Kashmir Movement (PKM) has said that Kashmiri Pandit migrants will return to Valley only when their territorial claim on Kashmir is recognised and accepted as per the demand of home land in Valley. Mr Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo, president of the organisation in a public meeting held at Sharda Colony, Domana near Jammu said today that Pandits have a right to live in Kashmir as they are the aborigines of the land. Their right was trampled and the genocide of the Pandits was the culmination of this process. They can return only when their territorial on Kashmir is accepted and recognised by all. He pointed out that there was wide range of perceptional difference between the Government and the Pandit community on the issue of return and resettlement in the Valley. The Muslim precedence and majoritarianism evades all walks of life in Kashmir. The Unhealthy and malignant socio-political developments during the period 1947-89 led to economic squeez , exclusion, communal violence and terrorism against KPs in Valley. Mr J L Koul alleged that Government has miserably failed in its duties to protect the rights of Pandit community in exile. The PK youth are jobless. The assurance that they will be provided on return is only a black-mailing tactics. Mr B N Khar presided over the meet Mir for promoting adventure tourism in J&K Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8 : Minister of State for Tourism Ghulam Ahmad Mir has called for coordinated efforts to promote adventure tourism in the state in a big way. Speaking at a function held to distribute certificates among the participants of basic paragliding camp at Sanasar, Jammu yesterday, the Minister called upon the youth to take up adventure tourism as their hobby which would not only help develop their all round personality but promote tourism in the state as well. Paragliding camp started from 4th of this month would last for 6 days. Seventeen girls from Government Women College, Gandhi Nagar and Government Women College, Udhampur are participating in the camp. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department has provided 80 per cent expenditure on the camp besides free boarding and lodging for the trainers. The participants were imparted basic training in paragliding by the two qualified instructors of the tourism department. The Minister distributed certificates among the participants. Director Tourism Mrs Nirmal Sharma was also present on the occasion. Stern action against absentee officials: Sofi Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8 : Minister for Forest and Environment Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi today paid surprise visit to Directorate of Soil Conservation J&K Jammu and District Soil Conservation Jammu. During his visit, the Minister found about three officials, including Director Soil Conservation absent from duty. The attendance register has been found blank from 22-11-2003 to 30-11-2003 from S.No. 1 to 10. In district Soil Conversation office, six officials were found absent from duty. Sofi directed the Commissioner-Secretary Forest to take stern action against the absent officials and sought explanation from the drawing and disbursing officer. He said the Minister took strong notice for not maintain the movement register by the Director Soil Conversation and District Soil Conversation Officer, Jammu. It is pertinent to mention here that maintain of movement register by gazetted officer is mandatory. POTA Court issues arrest warrants against Malik Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Presiding Officer TADA/POTA Court Jammu, Mr PN Razdan today issued arrest warrants against Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) supremo Mohd Yasin Malik for securing his presence in the court in the cases pending against him. The court issued non-bailable warrants against Malik who is facing trial in a case of killing Air Force personnel in 1990 in which one Nanaji Butt alias Saleem was also an accused in the case. The court further issued general arrest warrants against Amanullah Khan, Chairman JKLF Muzaffarbad and also against Mohd Amin Dar in this case. The warrants against Section 512 CrPC were also issued against Mohd Altaf Butt for the offence of committing attack on Army in 1990 at Badshah Chowk, Srinagar in which Yasin Malik is one of the accused and facing trial. In the meantime, Advocates Yogesh Bakshi and BL Chatta filed an application before the court that accused Yasin Malik is out of the State and be exempted from the personnel appearance. The court, however, rejected the plea and issued non-bailable warrants against Malik for securing his presence. It may be mentioned here that Malik was earlier granted bail in various cases pending against him under TADA/POTA on medical grounds. Police constable held for creating nuisance in Bishnah Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Bishnah Police has arrested a constable of the 4th Security Wing of the State Police for creating nuisance in the town. Police sources said that the constable of 4th Security—Prem Pal was under the influence of heavy liquor when he was apprehended by the Bishnah Police led by SHO (DySP Probationer) Manjeet Kour from the main market of the town where he was abusing the shopkeepers. Even when he was brought to the Police Station he continued to create nuisance and resorted to use of vulgar language. He was immediately put behind bars and a case under Section 510 RPC registered against him. By way of initiating this step, SHO Bishnah Police Station has conveyed to general public that everybody is equal before the law. Meanwhile, Bishnah Police arrested two eve-teasers Ravi Kumar and Daler Kumar when they were standing outside a school. A number of complaints were received by the police about the eve-teasing outside the educational institutions. |
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