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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The Minister of state for Agriculture, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad today called for familiarizing ...more Work in courts remain paralysed on second day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The normal work in High Court and Subordinate courts here remained paralysed on the second ....more 4 killed, 32 injured in accidents on NH Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Four persons were killed and 32 others received severe injuries in separate road accidents while ....more Judgement
in Birpur Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: In a much publicized Birpur land scam case, the judgment has been deferred third time .......more Accommodation
to Minister’s PRO in Medical Enclave Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The allotment of accommodation to PRO to Minister for Health and Medical Education in.....more |
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KP employees, Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: All Retired KP employees and serving Civil Secretariat and other Moving and Non-Move KP employees as also J&K Shiv Sena have ......more Touching farewell accorded to Fayaz Sheharyar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The galaxy of legal, academic, literary and cultural luminaries of Jammu bid farewell to Mr Fayaz Sheharyar, who .............more Excelsior Correspondent Udhampur, May 8: The District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, Mr. Atal Dulloo conducted extensive tour of Mahore, the remotest area of the ........more Rs 521 cr relief distributed among Kashmiri migrants Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The 13th meeting of the Apex Level Committee constituted to streamline distribution of relief and related matters to the Kashmiri migrants putting up at Jammu was held here today. The Minister for Revenue, ........more |
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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The Minister of state for Agriculture, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad today called for familiarizing cost effective techniques of water harvesting to give boost to agriculture and horticulture production in the state in a big way. Speaking at the Divisional Kharief Conference-2003 held at Agriculture Complex, Srinagar today, the Minister urged for converging Research and Development towards multiple cropping system with a focus on improving water management system to utilize available Irrigation potential optimally. The conference was convened to draw up a road map for Kharief season. A thread bare review about procurement, availability and distribution of paddy, pulses, fodder and vegetable seeds and fertilizers was held at the conference to boost Kharief crop production both in agriculture and horticulture sectors in a big way. Mr Ajaz stressed the need for evolving drought prone varieties of seed and plant materials to off-shoot apprehensions of damages caused to crop cultivation due to dry-spells. He also called for further reactivating agriculture extension wings to keep farmers abreast with the latest advancements in the farm practices and emphasized for providing agriculture inputs particularly fertilizer, seeds and pesticides well in time to the farmers and fruit - growers. The Minister also stressed the need for conducting soil testing in various areas for balanced fertilization of the agriculture land and orchards which are co-related activities. Mr. Ajaz also called for reactivating Kissan Behbood Committies and creating more marketing avenues for Agriculture and Horticulture produce. The principal secretary Agriculture Production, Mr. B. R. Kundal called for formulating comprehensive District Kharief plans after co-ordinating and dove tailing the programmes and plans of various agriculture and allied departments including irrigation department. He also called for involving village Panchayats and village societies in water distribution and utilization system on the pattern of Pani Pachayats in vogue in some progressive states of the country. He said Agriculture, rural development department, Integrated watershed Development Project (IWDP) and co-operative departments should pool their resources for reviving sick water storage tanks. "We shall have to re-invent the traditional water storage practices", Mr. Kundal added. He impressed upon the field agencies to popularize rain-water harvesting techniques in a big way in their respective areas. He said there was a need to develop greater linkages between agriculture and irrigation departments for boosting crop production in a big way. Mr Kundal also highlighted the significance of pasture and fodder development for promotion of live stock and poultry which have tremendous potential to grow in the J&K State particularly in the Kashmir valley where there is a demand of about one crore poultry birds and 25 lakh sheep and goat for mutton consumption annually, the maximum quantity of which is imported from outside states. . He called for fixing realistic targets for the Kharief crops adding that farmers should be provided an assured credit line through co-operative and Land Developments Banks for which they have come into existence. Mr Kundal impressed upon the officers and field agencies to strive hard to come up to the expectations of the people who are monitoring the activities of administration microscopically. He said some new innovative horticulture promotion programmes like Market Intervention Scheme and Agro-expo zones have come under implementation in the state and the funds for the agriculture and horticulture departments shall have to deliver in view of the changed and congenial circumstances now prevailing in the state. He said officers and field agencies shall have to be accountable for any short fall in targets. During the day long conference many important decisions were taken to boost the Kharief crop production in the state. It was decided to launch an integrated scheme for reclamation of seed farms spread over an area of 800 hectares in the state. The funds for the scheme would be got from NABARD through co-operative department and would be in implemented in phases. Measures would also be taken to introduce leguminous and perennial fodder seeds. An action plan would also be formulated in co-ordination with the forest department for development of pastures in the state. Chief Engineering Irrigation, Special Secretary Agriculture Mr. M.H. Samoon, Registrar Co-operative, Dr Mohammad Din, Director Research, SKUAST, Kashmir, Director Extension Education, SKUAST, Kashmir, Directors of Agriculture Kashmir, Horticulture, Law Enforcement, Sheep and Animal Husbandry, Managing Directors of Agro-Industries and Jammu Kashmir Horticulture Produce Marketing Corporation and concerned districts heads of Agriculture and Horticulture departments attended the conference. Sofi seizes purchase records of Chatalam Pora Fish Seed Farm Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: Minister for Forest and Environment, Mr Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi today paid surprise visit to Chatalam Pora Seed Fish Farm, Pulwama and seized the records with regard to the purchase of seed, which is supplied to the private fish rearing farms. The Minister was accompanied by Minister of State for Forest, Thakur Puran Singh. During the visit, the Ministers observed that records with regard to purchases made during the past three to four years have not been properly maintained. The Ministers said that the records would be properly scrutinized to ascertain the authenticity of financial transaction. The Chatalam Pora Fish Seed Farm comprises of four ponds in which only one is functional and other three would be made functional after the receipt of seed from National Seed Farm Kathua. The Ministers were informed that these ponds have a composed culture in which three species namely silver, gross and common corp are being fed. They were informed that the farm provides fry finger lings of 50 gms. to the fish farmers at the rate of Rs 300 per thousand and advanced finger ling at the rate of 50 paisa per finger ling. The Ministers instructed the authorities to encourage only those fishermen who are presently engaged in the profession and cancel license of all those who parted way with fishing trade. Later, the Ministers visited the Divisional Manager Sales of State Forest Corporation and checked sales record of the division |
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Work in courts remain paralysed on second day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The normal work in High Court and Subordinate courts here remained paralysed on the second consecutive day today, due to the three day call given by Bar Association Jammu. The Association is protesting against the inaction of the State Government in not completing the construction of the Subordinate Court Complex at Janipura Jammu, despite the direction of the High Court in the writ petition filed by Jammu Bar Association through Ajay Kotwal. The ongoing agitation has also caused a strong resentment over the allocation of Government assignments by Advocate General, ignoring the merit and indulging into favoritism. The young lawyers, particularly, have demanded a transparency in the criteria for the allocation of the assignments, including the Standing Counsels for various Government departments/Corporations, on the basis of the merit and integrity. The Young lawyers have also criticized the inaction of the State Government in not starting work on the construction of lawyers chambers in Court Complex at Janipur. Beopar Mandal, BJP oppose opening of liquor vend Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, May 8: Mr Rama Nand Baria, president of Beopar mandal Udhampur as also city president of BJP has strongly opposed Government move to open country liquor shop at Rown Domail. Mr Baria said that earlier also moves were made by some liquor contractors to open liquor vend at Rown Domail, which was strongly opposed by the inhabitants of the area strongly and the shops could not be opened in that very particular area. Various deputation of the concerned people of the area have met the District Development Commissioner and the Excise and Taxation Officer Udhampur in this connection that no liquor shop be opened in the area. Even BSF whose family quarters and training centre is located in the vicinity have strongly objected to opening up of the liquor shop at Rown Domail. Mr Baria said any move of the Government to open a liquor vend shall be resisted at all costs. |
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4 killed, 32 injured in accidents on NH Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Four persons were killed and 32 others received severe injuries in separate road accidents while as an unidentified body of a man was recovered from Ranbir Canal. Police spokesman said that two persons were killed and two others received severe injuries when a Maruti car, they were travelling in, collided head on with a speeding truck number JK02A-9387 near Maghar Khad under the jurisdiction of Hatli Morh Police Post in Kathua district. The Maruti car bearing registration number JK02P-1699 was on its way from Jammu to Pathankot when it collided with truck coming from opposite direction. Soon after the accident, the truck driver fled from the spot leaving behind the passengers of the Maruti car bleeding profusely. All the passengers of the car were rushed to District Hospital Kathua by the police personnel of Hatli Morh Police Post, who reached the spot soon after getting the information about the accident. Two passengers of the car were declared brought dead soon after their admission in the Kathua hospital. The critically injured persons were, later, referred to Government Medical College Hospital for specialised treatment. Their condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. The deceased have been identified as Kuldeep Kumar, son of Chajju Ram of New Plots and Jagdish Rather, son of Darshan Lal of Janipur. The injured are Rafiq Massih, Ramesh Magotra. A case has been registered in this connection and hunt was on to track down the absconding driver of the truck. But no arrest was made till late this evening. In another road accident, two persons were killed and 28 in collision between two truck, comming from opposite directions, at Bagyal Morh under the juridiction of Kathua Police Station. One of the truck was reportedly carrying pilgrims to Darbar Sahib. All the injured persons were rushed to District Hospital Kathua and two of them were succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Some of the injured were, later, referred to GMC Jammu for specialised treatment. The deceased have been identified as Hardeep Singh and Sandeep Singh, sons of Harpreet Singh of Chatha. In yet another road accident, one Gorvinder Singh, son of Harcharan Singh of Chak Harni in R S Pura received severe injuries after a truck being drive by him skidded off the road and rolled down at Langate Morh under the jurisdiction of Kathua Police Station. Meanwhile, an unidentifed body of a man was recovered from Ranbir Canal near Slama Chak. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. One Asha Devi, wife of Raja Ram of Trikuta Nagar allegedly consumed poisonous substance at her residence. She was rushed to hospital when spotted unconscious by family members and doctors attending on her immediately provided her stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. Her condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. Speaker constitutes 3 financial committees Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The Speaker Legislative Assembly, Mr. Tara Chand has constituted three House Financial Committees of Committee on Public Accounts, Committee on Estimates and Committee on Public Undertakings. Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather has been nominated Chairman of the 11-member committee on Public Accunts. The other members are Mr. Sharief-ud-Din Shariq, Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Molvi Abdul Rashid, Mr. Raman Bhalla, Dr. Romesh Chander Sharma, Dr. Ghulam Nabi Lone, Mr. Mohammad Sartaj Madni, S. Manjit Singh, Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma and Mr. Jatindar Singh alias Babu Singh. Mr. M. Y. Tarigami will be the Chairman of Committee on Estimates. The other members of the committee are Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Mohammad Shafi Bhat, Dr. Chaman Lal, Mr. Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, Mr. Girdhari Lal, Peer Mohammad Hussain, Mr. Mohammad Khalil Band, Usman Abdul Majid and Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma. Mr. Prem Sagar Aziz, has been made Chairman of Committee on Public Undertakings. The other members of the House committee are Mian Altaf Ahmad, Mr. Mohammad Dillawar Mir, Dr. Mehboob Beig, Mr. Abdul Rashid, Mr. Yogesh Sawhney, Mr. Jugal Kishore, Mr. Faqir Nath, Mr. Sonam Wangchok Narboo, Mr. Sarfaraz Khan and Mr. Ghulam Hassan Khan. The Speaker nominated chairman and members of these house committees, exercising powers conferred by Proviso of sub-rule (3) of rule 344, Proviso of sub-rule (3) of Rule 346 and Proviso of sub-rule (3) of Rule 349 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. These committees shall be upto 31st March 2004. |
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Judgement in Birpur land scam case deferred third time Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: In a much publicized Birpur land scam case, the judgment has been deferred third time due to the transfer of Special Judge Anti-Corruption, Mr RK Magotra, who had reserved the judgment in this case, but didn’t deliver it. In identical circumstances earlier also, Special Judges Anti-Corruption, Mr VK Phool and Mr Vikas Kant Gupta were almost to deliver the judgement in the same case, but due to their transfer also, they could not announce it. This case dates back to 1991 , when it was registered on the complaint of then Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Mr Parvez Dewan in July 31, 1991, with City Police Station and subsequently transferred to Vigilance Organization. The Vigilance Organization, after competition of the investigation, had presented a challan on September 18, 1992. The Court had framed charges against the accused including then Additional Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Khazan Chand and then Assistant Commissioner (G), Jammu, Ved Prakash Sharma, on June 27, 1994. During trial, the judgment was written twice by Mr VK Phool and Mr Vikas Kant Gupta in the capacity of Special Judge Anti-Corruption, but it was not announced, owing to their transfer. Third time, when Mr RK Magotra, Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, who was about to deliver the judgment, was transferred. Mr Magotra had reserved the case for judgment, didn’t announce the same with the observation that this case was fixed for judgment since April 23, 2003. During the perusal of the case, it was disclosed that a crucial piece of evidence which appeared against accused UC Dingra had not been put to him and his explanation had not been sought regarding his statement. So, on April 24, 2003, a supplementary statement of Dingra was recorded and the accused was offered an opportunity to lead further defence in the case, which he didn’t avail. The Court had further observed that parties were heard on the point again and the case was fixed for final order for May 3, 2003. However, by then, the news about Mr Magotra’s transfer spread. Mr Magotra had observed that in the present case, the charge against the accused Ved Prakash Sharma entered into criminal conspiracy with other accused with the object of obtaining for himself and conferring upon others undue pecuniary benefit by abuse of his official position or by corruption or illegal means and in furtherance of said criminal conspiracy , he had passed an order on November 1, 1990 in a suit under section 32 of Land Revenue Act, by virtue of which the land measuring 800 kanals and 700 kanals was held to be in possession of accused Ravail Singh and Rashpal Singh respectively. Ironically, the impugned order was passed by Ved Prakash after his transfer. Mr Magotra observed that " by the irony of it, today I am also sailing in the same boat. To justify my conduct, I must justify that conduct of the accused and questioning of the conduct of the accused would put to question my own conduct and to that extent, I have acquired a personal interest in the case. Under the present circumstance, I find myself under disqualification to pass judgment in the case, as any judgment passed by me, may be vitiated or to be vitiated by extraneous consideration and would be lacking any appearance of justice" " In view of the accusations against accused Ved Prakash Sharma, the propriety demands that I should not pass judgment in the case unless and until it is confirmed that I am not under transfer. Since the transfer orders are to be issued, therefore, the case is fixed for further orders for May 10, 2003", Mr Magotra stated prior to his transfer. However, the Court issued bailable warrants to the tune of Rupees 10,000 each for the arrest and production of accused Krishan Singh and Ghulam Nabi, on the next date. |
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Minister’s PRO in Medical Enclave Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The allotment of accommodation to PRO to Minister for Health and Medical Education in the Medical Enclave has created commotion in the medical circles of Government Medical College Jammu. The faculty of GMC, under the banner of Medical Teachers Association has alleged that the accommodation was allotted to PRO to Minister in a clandestine manner. They said that even faculty member has to obtain permission of the Administrative Officer after getting the approval of the House Allotment Committee (a highest authority to allot the accommodation) and signing of proper agreement deed before obtaining the keys of any flat in the Medical Enclave. Even Principal of Government Medical College has no powers to allot any accommodation to any body. But the PRO to Minister was handed over the keys of C-9 flat by the Engineering Wing after throwing to winds all rules and regulations. Moreover, the renovation of the flat allotted clandestinely to the Minister’s PRO was in progress when the condition of the adjacent quarters remained pitiable and any request to renovate them is being denied by the authorities on the pretext of shortage of funds. The Medical Enclave is purely meant only for the faculty of the Government Medical College Jammu and none else can get accommodation in the enclave. Even the request by a Deputy Medical Superintendent of Chopra Nursing Home was turned down by the allotment committee as he was not a member of the faculty. The allotment committee could have sanctioned accommodation in his favour keeping in mind that his previous accommodation at Ajaib Ghar, Shalamar Road was being demolished. The faculty of the College has urged the Principal to either immediately cancel the allotment in the favour of PRO or be ready to face the consequences. The Principal was also urged to allot this accommodation to next person in the waiting list in the status of Associate Professor (who are entitled to such accommodation). The Medical Teachers Association also suggested the Health and Medical Education Minister Ch Lal Singh that if he wanted to help his PRO he should use his influence in getting accommodation for his PRO from the Estates Department as such a things will set a wrong precedence. The Association made it clear that no outsider will be allowed to stay in the campus at any cost and warned to seal the premises. |
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Retd KP employees, Shiv Sena condemn Apex Committee Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: All Retired KP employees and serving Civil Secretariat and other Moving and Non-Move KP employees as also J&K Shiv Sena have questioned the Government decision on the appointment of two non-official members on the Apex Committee for Migrants. The retired and serving KP employees of Secretariat and non-Move employees have expressed shock and dismay on the appointment of Mr Vaishnavi and Mr Bhan on the Apex committee of Migrants by the Government as both had fought elections on tickets of different political parties and lost miserably. The retired KP employees stated that there are several prominent leaders of the community who should have been inducted into the committee. The association demanded re-constitution of the said committee. They held that decision if any taken by the apex committee shall not be binding on the Kashmiri Pandit community. J&K Shiv Sena in a meeting under the chairmanship of Mr Vipan Hindu, vice president and Bharat Bhushan Kaul, criticised the Government decision on appointing two non-official members on Apex Committee for Migrants, who had contested recent Assembly elections on JKNPP and PDP respectively. Sena has question the Government about credentials of the members namely Rattan Lal Bhan and B K Vaishnavi, who could not get even more than 20 votes in last Assembly elections. Sena demanded that before taking this decision the Government should have also consulted other social and political broad-based members of the community. Sena urged the Government to revoke the decision. Others present in the meeting included Messrs Dimpy Kohli, Ajay Chouhan, Anan Sharma, Rakesh Gupta, Rajesh Sharma, Sanjay Raina, Rahul Raina, Ashok Dhar, Anil Bhan, Vinod Gupta and Sahil Kaul. |
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Touching farewell accorded to Fayaz Sheharyar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The galaxy of legal, academic, literary and cultural luminaries of Jammu bid farewell to Mr Fayaz Sheharyar, who recently relinquished the charge of Director Doordarshan Kendra Jammu and sent to Jalandhar Doordarshan. The people present on the occasion spoke about the content and the hardware which during the tenure of Sheharyar received a tremendous fillip. Some learned speakers talked about the innovations in programme production and presentation. The expansion and addition of software sources that became reality in brief tenure of one and a half years. Some intellectuals and literary personalities who spoke on the occasion included Dr Zahuruddin, Dr K B Razdan, Prof A N Sadhu, Advocate S S Anand Lehar, Malik Ram Anand, Sham Talib, Dr Shohab Inayat Malik, Jitendra Bakshi, B S Bhargav, Capt Lalit Sharma, Dr Vijay Puri, Prof Ashok Aima and Dr Harish Kaila, president Nami Dogri Sanstha. The speakers while commenting on the new assignment of Mr Sheharyar hoped that spirit of contribution that Sheharyar put in with his whole heart shall continue in Jalandhar DDK also. Besides a multi-lingual Mushaira was also organized on the occasion which was compered by Dr Shoaib Malik while the poets who recited their poems included Messrs Sham Talib, Malik Ram Anand, Balraj Bakshi, Harish Kaila, Avtar Singh Chandan, Mrs Nirmal Vinod, Liaquat Zafri, B S Bhargav and Arvind Kumar., Music composer and secretary, Nami Dogri Sanstha. |
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Excelsior Correspondent Udhampur, May 8: The District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, Mr. Atal Dulloo conducted extensive tour of Mahore, the remotest area of the district and took stock of on-going developmental works in the area. He was accompanied by a team of district officers. At Mahore Mr. Dulloo held a meeting with the local people. MLA of the area Mr. A.G.Malik who was also present at the meeting expressed his satisfaction over the working of government employees. Other prominent citizens also apprised various problems being faced by them. Mr. Dulloo gave a patient hearing to their problems and assured for redressal. He directed all the officials to gear up development activities of their respective departments. He also asked the Sarpanchs and Panchs to dedicate themselves for welfare of the people in their respective areas. Mr. Dulloo directed Mr. M.L.Sharma, District Social Welfare Officer who was accompanying him to prepare a plan for opening of a computer centre at tehsil headquarter Mahore. He also directed the Chief Education Officer to make postings of teachers in order to make the defunct schools functional besides distributing books and coir mats to then so that the main demand of the people of far flung area be fulfilled. He also ordered R&B Department to complete the road from Dak Bungalow Mahore to helipad by the end of June this year. He asked PWD to construct the Kishan Thal bridge and complete Community centre at Mahore also. He instructed the tehsildar to put up the matter with the army regarding non-payment of the rent of the accommodation occupied by them, and also asked to transfer all the revenue record from Gool to Mahore to ensure settlement of revenue cases at the earliest. He asked the tehsildar and SDPO to check the fare of buses plying from Mahore to Udhampur as people have complained for over charging. Later, Mr. Dulloo visited to Chassana to oversee the developmental work in the area. Enroute, he met a deputation at Sungri and listened their problems. He ordered the Superintending Engineer, PDD, to restore the power supply of Chassana village at the earliest. He also ordered BMO, Mahore who is holding the additional charge of CDPO to send the ration at Chassana for the Anganwari centres. He also instructed District Social Welfare Officer to expedite the pension cases of two widows of Chassana whose husbands had been killed and also ensure financial assistance to them on priority basis. |
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Rs 521 cr relief distributed among Kashmiri migrants Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The 13th meeting of the Apex Level Committee constituted to streamline distribution of relief and related matters to the Kashmiri migrants putting up at Jammu was held here today. The Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Hakim Mohammad Yaseen presided over the meeting. Among others, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Mr Raman Mattoo, Financial Commissioners of, Revenue and Finance Departments, Principal Secretary, Planning, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir and representatives of Kashmiri migrants attended. The meeting discussed in detail the relief and other facilities being provided to migrants at Jammu. It was informed that 15914 registered migrant families are putting up in Jammu division who have been provided financial assistance of Rs 521 crore under various categories so far. This includes cash relief of Rs 377 crore also. The meeting was informed that three camp colleges, nine higher secondary and two high schools have been set up at various places to provide better education facilities to the migrant students. Presently, 9 kg of rice, 2 kg of atta are provided to every migrant person per month besides one kg of sugar is being provided to the migrants per ration card, the meeting was told. The meeting was further informed that to provide better medicare facilities to the migrants, the services of migrant drivers would be utilized to run the ambulances available with the Relief Commissioner. The other important decisions taken in the meeting pertain to reviewing the outstanding electricity tariff from the migrants, matter of new registrations and construction of low cost structures for the migrants. Speaking on the occasion, the Revenue Minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen said that the present coalition government had accorded priority to rehabilitation of migrants. The centre, he said, had reacted positively to the comprehensive plan being formulated for rehabilitation of migrants. He directed that the meeting of the Apex Level Committee should be held quarterly. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8 Deputy Chief Minister Mr.Mangat Ram Sharma has said that Bani, a picturesque spot and full of natural beauty surrounded by high mountain peaks would be developed as a tourist destination and brought on the country’s tourist map. Announcing this at a largely attended public meeting at Bani,230 kms from here this afternoon, Mr.Sharma said that necessary infrastructure required for the development of the area as a tourist destination would be created. To start with a 20- room Yatri Niwas and a dak bungalow would be constructed. Minister of State for Rural Development, Mr. Gharu Ram, local MLA, Mr. Prem Sagar Aziz and Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Mr. B. D. Sharma were also present. Dy Chief Minister said that the present Government has launched several welfare schemes and accorded priority for the development of hitherto neglected and far flung areas. He said various road projects have been taken up in Bani under Prime Minister’s Sadak Rozgar Yojana and assured the people that they would not be allowed to suffer for want of basic amenities of life. He said for providing employment to the unemployed educated youth hundreds of schools have been opened in the far off areas besides medical aid centres. Mr.Sharma referred to the coalition Government’s Common Minimum Programme and said the promises made in it would be fulfilled. The implementation of the Wazir Commission recommendations would pave way for giving Tehsil status to Bani, a long pending demand of the area. He said the matter regarding opening of a degree college would be considered subject to the availability of funds Mr Gharu Ram in his address listed the measures taken by the Government during the past six months and said that for the first time 50 per cent development funds have been provided to the panchayats for undertaking works in the rural areas. He said the Government is committed to empower panchayats to play their assigned role without any interference from the Government. He said the panchayats have been involved in plan formulations and fixing priorities of development. He said work on construction on village ponds and bowlies have been taken in hand to meet the water requirement of the kandi belts of Bani Niabat. Deputy Chief Minister also reviewed the pace of development on various ongoing schemes in the area at an officers meeting which was among others attended by the Deputy Commissioner, Superintending Engineers of various engineering wings, Superintendent of Police and other senior officers of the District. Mr Sharma impressed upon the district administration to be available at their respective place of postings to redress the grievances of the public who have great expectations from the present dispensation. He called upon the district administration to personally supervise and monitor work on various schemes and there should be no compromise on the quality of work. He asked for expediting the work on the schemes taken in hand so that benefits percolate at the grass roots level. He stressed the need for implementing the Government policy of providing corruption free and responsive administration to the people in letter and spirit and cautioned that any officer found indulging in corrupt practices would not be spared. Dy Chief Minister asked the forest department to provide timber for construction purposes to the people on concessional rates and every effort should be made for building up buffer stocks of seeds and fertilizers. Mr Sharma also inaugurated additional block for the Govt Girls Middle school Bani. Later, in a meeting with the Chief Engineer NHPC, Mr. Sharma felt the need for expediting work on Sewa Hydroelectric project stage II slated to generate 40 mw of power. He was told that the power house has total installed capacity of generating 120 MWs of power and by the end of March last over Rs.67.36 crore have been expended on it. Out of the 6.5 km road, 6.3 km has already been completed while 1.90 long road leading to the dam has been completed. In addition work on 5.04 Km Adit II is nearing completion. The project will have three open channels of 28 ,39 and 50 metres length. Mr Sharma urged upon the NHPC authorities to provide jobs to the local youth in the construction of the power project. He expressed the hope that on completion, the project would help in improving the power situation in the state besides providing uninterrupted power supply to the industrial sector in the state in general and Kathua district in particular. Mr Prem Sagar Aziz local MLA addressed the gathering and highlighted the problems of the people of the area. He also presented a memorandum to Dy. Chief Minister listing various demands. He also complimented the Government for reducing the transport fare and pleaded for operation of more SRTC buses on Bani route. Earlier,on their arrival the Ministers were accorded a rousing reception and taken in a procession up to the venue of the public meeting. |
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Dr H K Saxena delivers impressive lecture at KU Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: Chairman, Youth Hostels Association of India and President World Youth Federation of Youth Hostels, New Delhi, Dr Harish K Saxena currently in Srinagar delivered an impressive lecture on " Youth Hostels on the promotion of Human Bondage" at University of Kashmir today. Dean Students Welfare, Prof S M Afzal Qadri, organized the function. Among others staff and students of the University, the function was attended by Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jalees Ahmad Khan Tareen and Commissioner-Secretary, Finance Mr. Mohammad Shafi Pandit. Mr Sexana while emphasizing on the promotion of Human Bondage said that youth of J&K State should coordinate with the youth of the country in building social and cultural relations between various castes and creed. He asked all the sections of the society to come together to flourish brotherhood and communal harmony in the State so that it will prosper in every field of life. Vice- Chancellor, Mr. Tareen while speaking on the occasion said that Kashmiri youth is most disciplined one as compared to the youth in other parts of the country. He said that it is matter of pride that there is no political interference in Kashmir University. He directed that facilities need to be extended for enabling Kashmiri youth to travel to India and abroad as travelling provides a great opportunity for massive exposure. Stressing for providing more hostel facilities to the students, Mr. Tareen pleaded for vacating youth hostels by security forces if any. He announced that an International Hostel will be constructed in Kashmir University, where students and staff from overseas can stay and interact with local students. He said that to make Kashmir University more fascinating and significant for generations to come, he is ready to beg borrow and steal money and add to the present infrastructure more buildings and facilities. The University authorities presented a publication set to the guest and Mr. Sexana presented a watch and cap to Mr. Tareen as a gift. Mr. Tareen became a life member of youth Association of India on the occasion. Dean Students Welfare, Mr. Qadri presented vote of thanks and appealed all the faculty members and students to become members of Youth Association of India. Cultural officer, University of Kashmir, Mr. G.H. Gurku was also present on the occasion. |
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Local advocate selected for LLM at San Francisco Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: A local advocate practising in Jammu has been selected for undergoing LLM International Legal Studies Programme by the Gilden Gate University School of Law, San Francisco, USA, commencing from August this year. Miss Suriya Mir, D/o Mr Abdul Qayoom Mir of Rajouri has been declared successful in a competition in which thousands of aspirants from all over the world participated. Having done her graduation from Degree College Rajouri she joined Law Faculty in the year 1993 and passed LLB Degree from Jammu University. She also passed diploma in Criminology and police sciences in the first division and was appointed standing counsel for labour and employment Department for two terms. She remained actively associated with numerous social and voluntary organizations like NSS, All India Women Conference, Lions Club, Red Cross Society of India, Modern Cultural Club etc. Miss Mir has participated in many state and national level camps on National Integration. She is reportedly the only Indian Lawyer selected for this coveted International Law Degree. The University, keeping in view her excellent academic record has also awarded her a merit tuition scholarship. |
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World Red Cross Day celebrated Sofi for awareness against AIDS Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: Like other parts of the country, the World Red Cross Day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Red Cross Movement. The main function was organized by Indian Red Cross Society, Srinagar branch, at Government Girls Higher Secondary Institute Kothi Bagh. The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Ch Lal Singh presided besides the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Mr Abdul Gaffar Sofi was the chief guest. As a part of the function a symposium on the topic of "The truth about AIDS-pass it on" was also held and the students drawn from various schools and colleges of the city participated. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister of State for Health, Mr Sofi said that the HIV/AIDS pandemic is spreading alarmingly all over the world and to check this fatal disease a vigorous campaign must be launched to create awareness among the vulnerable groups of the society. He said the state government has established a separate cell in the health department to cope up with the disease so that further spreading of the disease could be checked. The Minister stressed for urgency to invoke religious checks for maintaining discipline in our sexual behaviour. He said that man himself is the creater of many diseases and the sufferers should be treated with love and compassion. Expressing his anguish over the spread of disease, he again stressed that prevention is better than cure and this can control the disease from engulfing entire mankind on this earth. He urged the electronic and print media to create awareness among the people against the disease. Dr Munir Ahmad Masudi in his key address said that lack of awareness is the main cause of the disease and religious preachers can have a better impact on the people to check this disease. He said that about a crore people are suffering under the agonies of this disease in India and the state AIDS Preventive Society is very much active to controlled this disease by adopting various measures. Earlier, the honorary, General Secretary Red Cross Srinagar, Qazi Mohammad Amin gave a brief resume of the activities of the Red Cross Branch and highlighted the significance of service to humanity the main motto of the International Red Cross Society. Mr Sofi also distributed certificates among the students participated in the symposium. |
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Human Rights Commission needs new lease of life: Shakti Dal Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission has not solved any case since its formation in the year 1997 and there is a dire need to give more powers to the Commission. This was stated by state president of Shakti Dal, Mr Kuldeep Sharma, while addressing a press conference here today. "None of the cases pertaining to the human rights violation has been solved by the Commission so far because it doesn’t have enough powers to prevent violation of human rights", he said. Moreover, Mr Sharma said, the head of the Commission always remained under the pressure of the State Government and could not act as per the rules and regulations to protect violations of human rights in the State. "In other States the heads of the such Commissions are either Chief Justice of the High Court or judges of the Supreme Court. But in this state, where violation of human rights in much more as compared to other states, a District Judge has been made the Chairman", he further said, adding "any District Judge is under the direct control of Law Ministry and he can not initiate action without the permission of Ministry". He demanded that State Human Rights Commission should be given adequate powers as early as possible to deal with the cases of human rights violation and to ensure that people, whose human rights are being violated by security forces in Kashmir valley, would get justice. "During our three day visit to the Kashmir valley a number of people complained to us that security forces have not been behaving sensibly and they used to harass them one way or the other on the pretext of security", the state president of Shakti Dal said and added that such commission with adequate power will provide succour to the general public. He disclosed that Shakti Dal has decided to constitute block level committees to protect the human rights of general public. |
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Extra-curricular activities vital for mental growth: Baig Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: Minister for Finance, Planning, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mr. Muzaffar Hussain Baig has stressed the need for making extra curricular activities a part and parcel of the academics to help in physical development of the youth. Speaking at the prize distribution function of the inter-school racing competition, organized by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports here today, the Minister described the youth as the torch-bearers of the future who, he said have to shoulder the responsibility of the nation. For this, he said "we need to produce physically and mentally sound young generation who can achieve great milestones not only for themselves but for the nation as well. Mr Baig said to keep the youth mentally alert, it was necessary that they have alert bodies which can only be achieved through greater participation in physical activities. Such activities, he said also sharpen the competitive skills of youth and give them the capacity to take on bigger challenges in the life with courage and determination. He hailed the organizers for organizing such events, which, he said would go a long way in producing a vibrant society. Around 1600 students from the educational institutions of district Srinagar participated in the race. The competition was organized in under-19 and under-14 categories. While 900 students participated in the under-19 category, 700 students participated in under-14 category. The race was flagged off by the Minister from Sher-e-Kashmir Park and Nehru Park and culminated at Nishat Gardens. The Minister, on this occasion, gave away trophies to the winners of the race. In the under-19 category Imtiyaz Ahmad of SP Higher Secondary School, Srinagar bagged the first position, Parvaiz Ahmad of Higher Secondary School Shalimar second and Bilal Ahmad of SP Higher Secondary School Srinagar third position. In the under-14 category Abid Hussain of Boys Higher Secondary School Zadibal bagged the first position, Amir Rasool of Woodland High School Srinagar second and Ghulam Rasool of Valley Vitasta School Srinagar third. The Minister gave cash award of Rs. 5000, Rs. 3000 and Rs. 2000 respectively to the first three position holders. He also announced Rs 25000 grant for Thung Ta players who exhibited their skills on this occasion. |
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Minibus operators call off
strike Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8- The striking mini-bus operators have decided to call off their strike this evening. This follows half an hour joint meeting of the union leaders of mini-bus operators of Kashmir and Jammu provinces with the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed here. The representatives of the striking mini-bus operators agreed to call off the strike on the assurance of Mufti Sayeed that their genuine demands would be presented to the cabinet for reconsideration sympathetically. Earlier, they presented their charter of demands to the Chief Minister. The deputation of the striking mini-bus operators that met the Chief Minister included Sheikh Mohammad Yousuf, Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Minibus Transport Federation, Mr. Ashok Sharma, President Minibus Workers Union, Jammu, S. Niranjan Singh, Senior Vice President, Minibus Workers Union, Jammu and Mr. Vijay Singh, 407-Minibus Operators Union, Jammu. Mr Tariq Hamid Kara, MLC was also present. Meanwhile, a number of deputations and individuals from various parts of the state met the Chief Minister here this evening and apprised him about their problems and development needs. They included a deputation of scientists of environment and remote sensing. Mufti Sayeed assured them that their demands would be got examined for appropriate action. |
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Javaid asks PDD to launch sustained inspection drive to check overloading Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: The Power Development Department is bracing up to launch a sustained inspection drive to check overloading and power theft that leads to frequent damage of transformers. In this regard, the Minister of State for Power, Mr Javaid Mustaffa Mir today convened a meeting of chief engineers, superintending engineers and executive engineers of power development department to discuss the strategies to be adopted to make people aware about the proper utilization of power and motivate them to consume power as per the load agreements. Addressing the meeting, the Minister said that the measures taken after the coalition Government took over the reigns of administration have borne considerable results. He said there is need for united efforts and to identify areas where the problems exist and force the department to go in for scheduled and un-scheduled cuts. Mr Javaid said the feedback he has received from the department so far is that the frequent damage to the transformers is due to overloading. He said in order to overcome this problem the department has to motivate the consumers to use power as per the agreement and keep constant check on load circulation through the field staff. He said the time demands that immediate measures be taken to improve the system and this will be done by keeping a continuous check on the power misuse. He said the awareness campaign to be started is to be flooded from every quarter including through electronic and print media. Responding to the problems pronounced by the PDD engineers they face during the inspection drive, the Minister assured of full support of the Government and said that he will issue necessary instructions to the police and the district administration to provide all possible help to the department. He said long stayed field staff would be immediately shifted besides, technical manpower will be provided in the divisions, which lack the same. He said there should be a consensus among the PDD officials that it is their responsibility to save the department from accumulating huge liabilities. He said the most important aspect in this regard at this point of time is to save as much energy as possible only then the department will be saved from deficit it accumulates every year by purchasing the power on high cost and selling it to the consumers on highly subsidized rates. Asserting that the main responsibility of keeping a close check on overloading lies with the department, the Minister offered that he is ready to accompany the PDD officials in the areas where they apprehend any violence from public. He said, the Government wants to set the things right and make the people understand that the power saved would be utilized for the general welfare. "The Government has no other intention to take harsh steps", he added. Regarding the mechanism to be adopted to check overloading, the meeting suggested that auto cut switching system be fitted with the distributing transformers. It was further decided that the person found stealing power would be asked to give an undertaking that he will not indulge in such practice in the future. Among others present in the meeting included Special Secretary, PDD, Chief Engineer, (M&RE), Kashmir, Superintending Engineers and all the executive engineers of the power development department. |
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BBIA demandsimproved phone services Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Bari Brahmana Industries Association has requested the General Manager Telecom to depute more technical and field staff to make the Telephone Exchange at Bari Brahmana function in proper way. According to Association this exchange has never worked properly since its upgradation as on and off there is a shut down in the Exchange which results in total cut off from not only rest of States but even Jammu also. It added that there are only two field staffers to cater to the needs of over 3000 telephones resulting into unnecessary delays in attending complaints and telephones remaining out of order for months together. Sainik Colony residents demand adequate water Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Sainik Colony residents have urged the PHE authorities to supply sufficient quality of water to their colony. According to Sainik Cooperative House Building Society Limited Jammu since the day colony was included in the Master Plan for supply of water, there has been serious shortage of drinking water and the situation continued to deteriorate with every passing day. It said during 1991-92 when there were only 500 families in the colony, water used to be supplied for 7 to 8 hours daily and now when there are more than 3000 families water supply has come down to five to six hours which is grossly insufficient even for drinking purposes. The Society has stated further that there is no long term plan for assured supply of water to the colony. The water management, it added, is so poor that authorities are not even aware of functional state of two tube wells situated well within the colony. One of them (A Sector Tube Well) is made defunct as a result the colony is denied the rightful share of water. It added that water is supplied after three to four days that too with a miserably low pressure. The Society demanded that areas where the pipe water supply is not feasible, the same should be made up through water tankers. Weeklong theatre festival by Natrang from May 11 Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: The Natrang has drawn up a weeklong programme of theatre festival at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu, starting from May 11. The theatre festival of Natrang is to commemorate the 20th year of meaningful theatre movement, stated the artists of the Natrang at a press conference here today. The event will feature outstanding productions of this theatre organisation founded in 1983. It was disclosed that Natrang has performed nearly 850 shows of 74 plays in and outside the Jammu and Kashmir State. The festival will open with the famous Dogri play " Ghumanyee" written and directed by Mr Balwant Thakur. On the second, it is scheduled to have performance of Bagia Banchha Ram Ki" in Hindi and directed by Abid Hussain, a graduate from National School of Drama. It is proposed that " Mahabhoj" written by Mannu Bhandari and directed by Balwant Thakur will be played on May 13. While on May 14, Mahesh Elkunchwar’s popular play "Holi" will be staged. It is based on the life of college going students and portrays their feelings and problems. Much acclaimed "Bawa Jitto" play in Dogri will be staged on May 15, which is incidently foundation day of Natrang. This has been written by Prof Ram Nath Shastri and directed by Balwant Thakur. " Aap Hamare Hain Kaun", the only children play will be exhibited on May 16. Then finally on the concluding day, "Kanjos", based ib Moliere’s French comedy "The Miser" will be staged on May 17. Mr Suresh Kumar, Sanjeev Kumar, Anil Tickoo and Shishupal, who addressed the press conference disclosed that the artists of Natrang will be felicitated on the concluding day of the festival. Gang of burglars busted, 4 arrested Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, May 8: The police claimed to have busted a gang of burglars with the arrest of four accused from various parts of the town in series of raids. SSP Udhampur, Mr Vijay Singh Sambyal while giving details said that police achieved a major break through in solving several burglary/ theft cases which occurred in Udhampur in the recent past. He said that police party headed by SHO, Mr M L Thakur during series of raids arrested four accused from different locations. They have been identified as Rakesh Kumar, son of Nek Ram Sharma, Rakesh Kumar , son of Des Raj of Gadhi Dhar, Raju , son of Abdullah Munshi of Shiv Nagar and Phillips alias Beeru , son of Kunda Ram of Malta Udhampur. Mr Sambyal said that during their sustained interrogation vital clues regarding some burglary cases were established and some of them got resolved. Some gold ornaments were also recovered at their instance Two of the accused are in the age group of 14-15 years. The accused used to break open the locked houses during day / night hours and decamped with gold ornaments/ cash etc. They used to disburse the stolen property to the members of the gang. They also used to sell ornaments to Beeru who also used to collect the pieces of gold from the cremation ground, burnt along with the dead bodies. The police said that some more persons connected with the gang have been identified and their arrest is likely within a day or two. The SSP also advised the goldsmiths not to purchase gold from any such suspect. BJP criticises Rather for his remarks Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Bharatiya Janata Party described the baseless and unstable the allegation of the senior National Conference (NC) leader and former Minister Abdul Rahim Rather that New Delhi used foul means between 1953 and 1975 in order to erode the internal autonomy granted to J&K under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. Today Prof Hari Om, spokesperson of the Party in J&K pointed out that New Delhi has not imposed any Central Law on J&K against the State’s will. Even the State Autonomy Committee Report ( P-63) of which he was one of the chief draftsmen, has acknowledged that J&K has been brought under the jurisdiction of certain laws and institutions with the concurrence of the State Government. The BJP would appreciate the former Finance Minister if he could refer to any Central Laws which New Delhi has applied to J&K against the wishes of the State Government. He said the Party is not even prepared to buy his argument that there exists something like the "1952 Delhi Agreement", which according to him envisaged greater autonomy for J&K and limited the Central jurisdiction to just three subjects —defence, foreign affairs and communications. So far as 1952 Delhi Agreement is concerned, the BJP would want to remind Mr Rather that he had himself admitted during a seminar on greater autonomy at Srinagar some two years ago in response to my assertion that there existed no such agreement. The BJP firmly believes that extension of the Central laws and Institutions to J&K has only benefitted its people and that their withdrawal from the state would at once mean re-establishment of a local oligarchy with the common people having no civil liberties, no fundamental rights and no share whatsoever in the authority and control of the Government. Such a dispensation is not acceptable to the BJP as also to the patriotic people of J&K, he maintained. Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8: Mr Abdul Majid Khan, president All J&K Low Paid Employees Federation while addressing a employees rallies at Ganderbal, Sumbal, Sonawari and Kangan in Kashmir valley, made a strong plea to the Government to release DA installment from January 2003 and enhance monthly Medical Allowance to Rs 300 in favour of the State employees and pensioners. According to a press release, Mr Khan also demanded enhance of minimum wage to Rs 100, wages and honorarium of Village Guards, Numberdars, Hand Receipt/Consolidated Paid/Part Time workers and Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers immediately in order to save them from hardship being faced by them due to soaring prices of essential commodities. He also criticised the Central and State Governments for pursing anti-people and anti-working class policies in the garb of globalisation and economic reforms selling profit earning PSUs to big bussiness, MNCs and foreign investors, causing retrenchment of workers. He said that the Federation has always been in the forefront to plead the cause of working classes and the toiling masses following the footsteps of May Day martyrs and we will continue to do so under all circumstances. Regularisation of daily wager workers under SRO 64, grant of cash in lieu of leave to teachers and removal to teachers and removal of their pay anomalies and early redressal of grievances of clerks, Class IV employees, Anganwari workers and employees belonging to other categories and cadres were some other demands raised in these rallies. At Ganderbal rally was under the chairmanship of Ghulam Hassan Hajam in which Mir Ghulam Rasool Batwani, Mushtaq Shopiani, Sheikh Rubani, Abdul Sattar Mir, Ali Mohammed Khan, Noor Mohammed Sheikh, Khurshid Kabli, Abdul Ahad Rather, Noor Mohammed Katjoo and Bashir Ahmed Kalas were also spoke. At Sumbal Sonawari, Hafeez Ullah presided over the function while Bashir Ahmed Kalas presided over rally at Kangan. EWS Colony people highlight demands Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: A meeting of inhabitants EWS Colony Muthi Camp Road was held under the chairmanship of Mr Jaswant Singh Bhau to discussed the problems being faced by the people. Their main demands pertained to acute shortage of drinking water, renovation of lanes and drains, proper laying of slabs on drains and making functional street lights. The meeting requested the concerned PHE and JDA authorities to take immediate action and mitigate the sufferings of the inhabitants. TVVS celebrates foundation day Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, May 8: Tagore Vidyarthi Vikas Sanstha celebrated its foundation day today in the premises of Government Girls Primary School, Kathua. Mr Shallo Ram, ZEO was the chief guest while Mr Rajinder Kumar Gupta Sanstha president presided over. A cultural programme was also organized. Asha Rani who played in the National Hockey was honoured on the occasion. The Sanstha also adopted four more deserving and needy students of 9th and 10th class namely Lakhandeep Verma and Lal Din of Government High School Parliwand, Varsh Kumari of Government High School Govindsar and Rajni Bala of Government High School Gaiterwan. Sanstha will bear all academic expenses of these students. educational kits were distributed amongst adopted students on the occasion. 100 encroachments cleared in JMC operation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: Continuing its drive against the encroachments, Jammu Municipal Corporation removed about 100 encroachments from the areas of Vinayak Bazar, Jewel Chowk, Canal Road, City Chowk and Mohalla Malhotrian. Executive Officer, JMC Dr D R Kapoor disclosed that most of the shopkeepers were found to have encroached upon the footpaths, lanes, drains and road sides making it difficult for the pedestrians to move about as number of complaints have been regularly been pouring in the office of the Jammu Municipal Corporation in this regard. As many as 25 shopkeepers have been challaned and convicted in the court of law besides confiscating the goods of many habitual offenders. In addition to this, as many as ten structures which included a showroom of M/S Shanker Shah Jewellers, pillars of the construction raised by one Rajesh Kumar at Mohalla Malhotrian, on Circular road, Nanak Nagar and Shalamar Chowk. Some unauthorised structures were also raised to the ground. The Jammu Municipal Commissioner, Mr Jeet Lal has appealed the shopkeepers to keep their belongings within their shutter lines, making footpaths, roads, lanes convenient for the free movement of the pedestrians. Qazi visits Ganderbal villages Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 8 : The Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Qazi Mohammad Afzal alongwith team of officers of Revenue and Agriculture departments visited various villages including Lar, Raipore, Watalbagh, Watlar, Barsoo and adjacent villages of Vail, Ganderbal the other day these were affected hailstorm recently. The recent hailstorm in these areas caused considerable damage to agriculture and horticulture sectors. The Minister directed the officers to immediately initiate the process of assessing damage to fruit and other crops in these areas so that remedial measures are considered to help the affected people. Various public deputations also met the Minister and apprised him about the problems being faced by them and sought initiation of remedial measures. DRCS celebrates World Red Cross Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: District Red Cross Society Jammu organised a special programme on the occasion of World Red Cross Day at Red Cross Bhawan Jammu. Divisional Commissioner Jammu Mr Lokesh Jha was the chief guest who hoisted the flag. Flag hoisting was followed by a Red Cross pledge taken by office bearers of red Cross, Principals, teachers, members of Executive Committee and students from various educational institutions. The chief guest lit the traditional lamp and garlanded the portrait of Sir Jean Henry Dunant, the founder of Red Cross Movement. Dr Pawan Kotwal, Deputy Commissioner Jammu who is also chairman of District red Cross Society Jammu welcomed the chief guest and all other dignitaries. Mr N L Bakshi, Hony Secretary IRCS Jammu region highlighted the importance of the day and briefed how this noble organization came into being. Junior Red Cross volunteers sang a song written and composed by Yash Paul Yash. The chief guest lauded the efforts putforth by the District and regional branch in organizing very impressive programme and assured for all help for broadening the base and covering more needy persons. The programme was conducted by Mr Dinesh Gupta, Honorary executive secretary, Jammu district branch who also presented vote of thanks. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Messrs Mahesh Gupta, R Vijay Magotra, M K Sharma, Mrs Santosh Magotra, V K Sethi, M N Sehgal, Mrs Prabha Jain, Dr Renu Nanda, Dr Yugal K Mehta, S Mohinder Singh and Mrs Davinder Kour. Jugal Kishore inaugurates Baridar jute industry unit Excelsior Correspondent Katra, May 8: The Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Jugal Kishore inaugurated Baridar Jute Industry, Training and Earning Unit at Katra today. The unit set up at a cost of Rs. 43 lakhs will manufacture jute and cotton products. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that demand of jute products are increasing day by day. He asked the Industry department to launch awareness programme in the district and properly guide the general masses about the schemes launched by the government for the benefits of un-employed youth. He asked the General Manager, District Industries Centre, Udhampur to explore the possibility for setting up of more industrial units in the area. Complementing the proprietor, Mr. Darshan Poojari for setting up the unit, the Minister said that the other youth of the area should take aspiration from him and come forward for setting up their own units instead of hankering of the Government job. Earlier, proprietor of this unit apprised the Minister that employment to 70 persons have been provided in this unit and assured that full support including financial assistance would be given to the workers for arranging social activities. Mementoes were given to the Minister of State, Mr. Jugal Kishore, Additional SP, Katra, Chief Accounts Officer, Shrine Board, General Manager, DIC, Udhampur and Poojari of Shree Mata Vaishno Devi Shirne. Among others function was attended by the officers on special duty Shrine Board, large number of women, prominent citizens, local officers and pilgrims of Shree Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. Family health awareness campaign to be launched in Rajouri Excelsior Correspondent Rajouri, May 8: A vigorous Family Health Awareness Campaign organized by District Coordination Media Committee would be launched in district Rajouri from May 15 to May 30, 2003 to ensure Aids free society in the State. This was disclosed by the District Development Commissioner, Rajouri, Mr. M. K. Dwivedi while addressing daylong workshop on Aids organized by District Coordination Area Committee here today. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Dwivedi underscored the need to create awareness at the grass roots level as the disease has no effective treatment except prevention only. He called for coordinated efforts of opinion leaders, educationists, NGOs and religious leaders in disseminating information to all the masses. He stressed the need for involvement of Panchayats in a big way to make the programme a success by adding block committees under the chairmanship of Tehsildars/BDOs to monitor the effective implementation of the drive. He directed CEO to chalk out a comprehensive strategy to involve school and college administration to eliminate this disease which mainly transmitted through sexual observations. Earlier, CMO, Rajouri in his welcome address disclosed that as many as 140 camps would be set up to cover the district. Each camp would be manned by two doctors and two health workers. During the camp, general health check up and HIV tests would be taken besides educating the people regarding various modes of transmission of the killer disease and the light will be thrown on its various symptoms also. Later, a question answer session was conducted in which the audience sought clarification from the speakers on the various aspects of the dreaded disease and matters related thereto. Power shut down in Jammu areas Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, May 8: Following the repair work of 33 KV feeders, from May 9 to May 13,2003, the power supply in some localities of Jammu shall remain effected from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. The power supply in parts of Nanak Nagar, Gandhi Nagar, Trikuta Nagar and part of Gangyal area and Greater Kailash shall be effected on May 9,2003 while the power supply in Greater Kailash, Preet Nagar, Gangyal Industrial area, Gangyal town, Nai shall also be effected on May 10th, 2003. Besides the areas of Police Line, Bahu complex, part of Gandhi Nagar and Nanak Nagar, University complex, Ware House and MES will be effected on May11,2003. The supply in Nai Basti, Ashok Nagar, part of Shastri Nagar, Satwari, Sanjay Nagar, Dagiana, Jewan Nagar, Narwal Pain, Airforce, MES, Satwari and Airforce shall be effected on May 12th, 2003 and the areas of Transport Nagar, Channi Himmat and Sainik colny shall be effected due to shut down on May 13th May. The shutdown shall be subject to fair weather conditions and the timing of shut down will be from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. in all the mentioned places. DCC hails expansion of Municipal Wards Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 8: District Congress Committee Jammu (urban) has hailed the decision of the Government to expand the jurisdiction of Jammu Municipal Corporation including Trikuta Nagar, Chhani Himmat, Chhani Rama, Narwal, Gangyal, Sunjwan Digiana etc. The meeting was chaired by Mr Om Chopra, president DCC and ex-MLA, who dwelt at length dealt with mis-governance of National Conference Government with covert support of BJP which almost pushed every citizen to wall under the monster of corruption, nepotism, red-tapeism and despotic syndrome. Mr Chopra said a delegation of Congress Committee had met the Deputy Chief Minister Mr Mangat Ram Sharma and in the ensuing discussion Mr Sharma was pleased to assure his support for resolution of the issues raised in the interaction. The DCC reiterated its demands like De-novo delimitation of Municipal Wards in consultations with political parties, right to franchise to electors irrespective of their state subject status and 33 percent reservation for women in Municipal Corporation elections. Prominent among those who attended the meeting were Messrs D S Langeh, Nek Mohd, Mansa Ram, Mohd Saleem Khan, R K Bajaj, Ram Malhotra, Mohinder Kumar Pandotra, C L Bhatti, Inder Sehgal, Capt Jagan Nath, Ram Labhaya, Mohan Lal Sharma, Krishan Lal Abrol, Krishan Lal Gupta, Mrs Shanti Vaid, Lalita Sabharwal, Lalita Sharma, Kanta Bhan and others. Annual plan for Doda district fixed Excelsior Correspondent Doda, May 8: The draft annual plan for Doda district under SCA to TSP SCA to SCP for the current financial year has been fixed as Rs. 146.21 lakh for (SCA to TSP) schedule tribes and Rs. 15.35 lakh for (SCA to SCP). This was stated at a joint meeting of sectoral officers and members of ST/SC advisory group held here today under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Doda, Mr. Mehboob Iqbal. The draft plan for schedule tribes include Rs. 48.00 lakh for providing power supply to additional schedule tribes bastis under power sector. Followed by Rs. 20.00 lakh for providing drinking water under PHE sector, Rs. 26.50 lakh under Agriculture, Rs. 18.80 lakh for construction of bridle path, tankies and other works including forty houses under IAY, under RD sector. Rs. 12.41 lakh for extension of computer course in gujjar and bakerwal hostel, besides extension of cutting/tailoring centers under social welfare sector and alike. Similarly, under schedule caste SCA to SCP Rs. 4.55 lakh have been proposed under Agriculture, Rs. 4.40 lakh under Rural Development sector for construction of 20 houses under IAY pattern for schedule caste community, Rs. 1.10 lakh each to Animal and Sheep Husbandry sector for establishment of eleven units in each sector on 50% subsidy, Rs. 1.10 lakh to Horticulture sector for distribution of olive/walnut and apple trees on subsidy to cover an additional area of 100 hectares. In addition Rs. 0.80 lakh each have kept for Handloom and handicraft sectors for establishment of two weaving and one sozni training center by each department respectively. While reviewing the achievements registered under (SCA to TSP) and SCA to SCP during last financial year, it was stated that an expenditure of Rs. 97.46 lakh were incurred on various welfare schemes related to schedule tribes and Rs. 8.91 lakh for schedule caste communities respectively. An area of 210 hectares under schedule tribes and 35 hectares under schedule caste welfare schemes under Agriculture sector alone was covered under gully plugging/community development nallah bank erosion control, land leveling and diversion drain/bund schemes respectively during the year. Speaking on the occasion, the District Development Commissioner impressed the advisory group members to furnish the list of beneficiaries after consultation with people in their respective areas with in a months time. He said that care should be taken to ensure that schemes under PHE and power sectors should completed by the end of current financial year and maximum population is benefited under all these schemes. |
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