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roads IDFC to assist J&K in infrastructure development, investment Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov. 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has identified two major roads of great tourist-cum-pilgrim importance for widening and upgradation to international standards. The country’s leading Mumbai-based IDFC has been asked...more ASKPC
reiterates Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) while welcoming the statement of Dr Murli Manohar Joshi, Union Minister for Human Resource and Development that time is..........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: A man allegedly committed suicide while as seven persons were injured in separate road accidents..............more BSF killed
208 HOSHIARPUR, Nov 25: As many as 208 hardcore terrorists, including Gazi Baba and Rashid Bhai of Jaish-e-Mohammad, have been killed by the BSF....more Charges
framed against Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Principal Sessions Judge Jammu, Mr Subash Chander Gupta has framed charges against two Pak trained militants— Mudassar Ahmad Wani of Harmain Shopian and Dalawar........more |
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CS reviews
works on Sewa Excelsior Correspondent Kathua, Nov. 25: Sewa Hydel Project Phase -II Basohli shall be completed by 2007. This was conveyed to Chief Secretary, Dr. S. S. Bloeria who reviewed the progress of ongoing works on the project in a high level meeting of officers held at Ranjit Sagar Dam yesterday. ..............more Tributes
paid to Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Rich tributes were paid to the martyrs of Mirpur and Muzaffrabad who laid down their lives in 1947, in different functions organised here today.......more Court
acquits Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, Mr MK Hanjura today acquitted one Om Prakash Bhagat, the then storekeeper Central Jail Jammu against whom charges of misappropriation of store articles worth rupees 1,71,638 were leveled............more Permanent
Lok Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov. 25: A permanent Lok Adalat was held here today under the Chairmanship of Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Chairman District Legal Services Authority, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Jammu........more |
CM orders upgradation of 2 major
roads Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov. 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has identified two major roads of great tourist-cum-pilgrim importance for widening and upgradation to international standards. The country’s leading Mumbai-based IDFC has been asked to prepare detailed projects and arrange private investment for Srinagar-Chrar-i-Sharief-Yusmarg road in Kashmir and Domel-Katra road in Jammu. These two roads are significance in view of heavy traffic of pilgrims visiting the world famous shrines of Chrar-i-Sharief and Vaishno Devi. Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed gave these instructions after the IFDC Chairman-cum-Chief Executive, Nasir Nunji gave presentation to him and other Ministers here this evening. Finance Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig, Power Development Minister Mohammad Sharief Niaz, Minister of State for R&B Sayeed Bashir Ahmad, Chief Secretary Dr Sudhir S. Bloeria, Principal Secretary, Planning and Finance, Vijay Bakaya and other senior officers were also present. Infrastructure Development Finance Company Limited (IDFC), with an equity of Rs 1600 crore, is a leading firm for formulating and executing commercially viable infrastructure development projects in critical sectors like roads, tourism, solid waste management, power reforms, communication, post-harvest management. It also helps in formulating policies, evolve strategies and arrange investment for executing projects in these sectors through public private partnership. The company has so far has made a cumulative disbursement of Rs 4000 crore for execution of various high profile projects in the country. Mufti Sayeed ordered that infrastructure development of Chrar-i-Sharief town and tourist resort of Yusmarg should be made part of the project to facilitate the pilgrims and tourists. He asked IFDC to send its teams to the areas for formulating projects expeditiously. He said more road projects and bridges should be taken up later as connectivity and other infrastructure are key to development and progress of the State. Referring to the development of tourist resorts in the State, the Chief Minister emphasised the need for according highest priority to Sonamarg as this picturesque spot has a vast potential for coming up as a major tourist destination in the valley. He said it also has an added importance in view of being the gateway to Ladakh and alternate and convenient route to Amarnath pilgrimage. He said the matter has also been taken up at the highest level at the Centre for upgrading Srinagar-Sonamarg road in view of heavy rush of traffic on it. He said there is need to expand infrastructure in tourism sector particularly for high class tourists by evolving short and long-term strategies as the number of tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir is likely to increase manifold next year as we are hopeful of peace dawning the valley. He said the strategies should cover pilgrim and adventure tourism as well. He said there are several picturesque spots including Padri, Seojdhar, Sarthal, Sanasar, Mansar, Sruinsar, Mantalai,Kokernag, Aharbal etc. that require greater thrust for creating and expanding tourist infrastructure and projects need to be formulated for these at a later stage. The Chief Minister stressed the need for handing over some small and micro hydel projects to IDFC and said that a beginning in it could be made with Ganderbal and Lower Karthai projects. He also emphasised that solid based management projects for capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu should be prepared by IDFC. Mr. Baig said that Pahalgam-Chandanwari road should also be considered for widening and upgradation for creating better infrastructure facilities for the Amarnath pilgrims. The tracks leading to Amarnath cave shrine should be better developed as the shrine can expect heavy pilgrim traffic in future, he added Mr. Niaz sought infrastructure development for tourist places like Sarthal, Padri, Seojdhar, Bhaderwah etc. Dr. Bloeria said that power sector reforms is another area where the IDFC could be a partner of the State Government. Project for power metering can also be considered as the State is far behind in this aspect. Principal Secretary Power Development Anil Goswami, Commissioner/Secretary R&B Pramod Jain, Secretary Tourism Najmus Saqib and Secretary PHE Atul Dulloo also participated in the meeting. |
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ASKPC reiterates separate state demand for KPs Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) while welcoming the statement of Dr Murli Manohar Joshi, Union Minister for Human Resource and Development that time is not ripe for the return of KPs to Valley, reiterated that migrants will only return after a separate state is carved out for over four lakh Pandits in the Valley. The meeting which was chaired by the ASKPC chief Amarnath Vaishnavi took strong exception to Income Tax Commissioner and warned him for forcing the migrant employees to pay the tax. He said though Government has admitted its failure in not providing the protection to the minorities in the Valley who have been forced to flee from their homes and hearths, it issued deferment orders regarding the deduction of IT from them. The meeting in an appeal to Union Finance Minister, Jaswant Singh and Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed have sought their intervention in the matter. It expressed the hope that the Central Government will rise to the occasion and come to the rescue of the hapless people. It while hailing the enhancement of cash relief has demanded construction of one room tenements with kitchen and bathrooms. Addressing the meeting H L Chatta, general secretary, ASKPC expressed grave concern over Government’s failure to provide jobs under SRO 43 to Nadimarag victims while R K Raina demanded restoration of migrant property and Hindu shrines in the Valley. Meanwhile, Member Apex Committee Migrants, R L Bhan has hailed the enhancement of cash relief to migrants. He expressed the hope that the Government will also take keen interest in solving the unemployment problem being faced by the community youth. NC Minority Cell, general secretary and ex MLC B L Bhat, Roshan Lal Pandita, Member Development Committee, Purkhoo and A K Jyotshi of Relief Holders Association have also welcomed the enhancement of cash relief. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: A man allegedly committed suicide while as seven persons were injured in separate road accidents. Police spokesman said that a man—Kishore Kumar, son of Sadhu Ram of Sambi under Sainik Colony Police Post allegedly committed suicide by setting himself ablaze at his residence. He was rushed to Government Medical College Hospital with severe burn injuries and later he succumbed to his injuries. It could not be ascertained as to what prompted him to take this extreme step. Meanwhile, seven persons— Bilai, son of Anwar of Miran Sahib, Jaswinder Singh, son of Joginder Singh, Daleep Singh, son of Dula Singh of Govindpur, Atik, son of Amin Mughal of Ustad Mohalla, Parvez Ahmed, and Deeraj Kumar, son of Hazarie of Sainik Colony— received severe injuries in separate road accidents. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. A woman—Baby Kumari, wife of Vijay Kumar of Purmandal allegedly consumed poisonous substance at her residence. She was rushed to hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. 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. |
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BSF killed 208 hardcore terrorists in J&K HOSHIARPUR, Nov 25: As many as 208 hardcore terrorists, including Gazi Baba and Rashid Bhai of Jaish-e-Mohammad, have been killed by the BSF during insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir in this calendar year so far, BSF Director General Ajai Raj Sharma today said. Addressing a press conference at the subsidiary training centre of the BSF at Kharkan, 12 km from here, he said that 62 BSF jawans and officers had laid down their lives in these operations in J&K. Besides, 50 jawans and officers of the BSF had also sacrificed their lives in other parts of the country while protecting the borders during this calendar year. The BSF had also arrested 114 terrorists during this period, he added. Besides, this security force had seized huge quantity of fire arms and ammunition from terrorists. Replying to a question, he said that out of 180 km-long border in J&K, 80 km length has been fenced with barbed wire till now. The work on the remaining portion was in full swing which was likely to be completed before the scheduled period in 2006, he added. The BSF chief said that training centres for terrorists in Pakistan occupied Kashmir were still continuing. Referring to the situation along the Indo-Bangladesh border, Mr Sharma said the relation between the BSF and the Bangladesh Rifles has improved now and, as a result, the infiltration on this border has been reduced. The BSF have so far arrested 16,000 to 17,000 Banladeshis while while they were infiltrating into India, he said. Replying to another question regarding replacement of the BSF with the CRPF in J and K, he said that CRPF was a good force and it would also produce desired results there. Referring to the incidents of indiscipline in the BSF, the Director General said the main reason for this act was lack of co-ordination among the seniors and juniors. "Ignoring the problems of juniors by their seniors has led to indiscipline," he said. The BSF Director General said that after a long period the BSF had got sanction of cadre restructuring from the Union Government which would lead to the addition of 1700 new ranks in the force. He said that starting with a modest strength of 25 battalions in 1965, the BSF came a long way and have now emerged as the largest paramilitary force in the world, deployed in an area of about 7,500 km of border with Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Bhutan. Earlier, Mr Ajai Raj Sharma took salute from 329 newly passed out recruits in an impressive passing out parade. IG (Punjab frontier) G S Gill accompanied the Director General during his visit to the STC Kharkan. The Director General awarded trophies to nine cadets for their outstanding performance in different subjects during their nine-month basic training. Recruit Constables Shiv Kumar and Harender Kumar were adjudged the overall best cadets. (UNI) |
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Charges framed against 2 Pak trained militants Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Principal Sessions Judge Jammu, Mr Subash Chander Gupta has framed charges against two Pak trained militants— Mudassar Ahmad Wani of Harmain Shopian and Dalawar Ahmad Naik of Harbari Neel Banihal for the commission of offence under Section 2/3 EAO and 7/25 Arms Act. The court, however, released Mohd Abdullah Sohail of Chabeen Boss Banihal against whom no offence was constituted. The court said that mere disclosing by the accused about the money to be delivered to the accused Mohd Abdullah and admission of Mohd Abdullah after his arrest will not constitute any offence against the accused Mohd Abdullah. The court observed that the judicial confession before the witnesses about going to Pakistan for obtaining training in arms and ammunition and thereafter coming from Pakistan for causing sabotage activities in the State at the instance of the ISI and recovery of rupees six lakh from the accused persons is sufficient to prima facie held guilty of offence under section 2/3 EAO and under section 7/25 Arms Act. |
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CS reviews works on Sewa Hydel Project Stage-II Excelsior Correspondent Kathua, Nov. 25: Sewa Hydel Project Phase -II Basohli shall be completed by 2007. This was conveyed to Chief Secretary, Dr. S. S. Bloeria who reviewed the progress of ongoing works on the project in a high level meeting of officers held at Ranjit Sagar Dam yesterday. Among others, Principal Secretary, Power Development Department, Mr. Anil Goswami, District Development Commissioner, Kathua, B. D. Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police. M. K. Sinha, Chief Engineers (Adm and Field), Ranjit Sagar Dam, Chief Engineer, Designs, J&K, Executive Director, National Hydro-Electric Power Corporation, Chief Engineer, NHPC and other officers of Fisheries, Forest and Revenue were present in the meeting. The Chief Secretary stressed on the NHPC Authorities to accelerate the pace of works for the construction of Sewa Hydel Project, Stage-II so that the project can be completed within the stipulated time. He directed the district administration to extend full cooperation to NHPC authorities in acquisition of land, mobilization of machinery, material and work force. Dr. Bloeria exhorted NHPC officials to provide rehabilitation package for the dam ousters at the earliest and provide them due share in works force and technical manpower. Earlier, A. K. Sachdeva, Executive Director, NHPC apprised the Chief Secretary that Sewa Hydel Project Stage-II of 120 MW capacity shall be completed within 48 months at an estimated cost of Rs. 665.47 crores. This project will require 94.04 hectare of land for its structure out of which 33 hectares is forestland, 20.72 hectares Government land and 40.32 hectares is the private land. The Chief Secretary also took stock of the issues pending with the Punjab Government. He stressed on the Ranjit Sagar Dam authorities to complete the Shahpur Kandi project expeditiously so that J&K’s share of 1150 cusecs water could be got in full and irrigation needs of Kandi areas of the district Kathua and Jammu were met fully. The DDC, Kathua apprised the Chief Secretary of need of operationalising motorized boats from Satwain to Basohli town and from Basohli to Sarti (Gurdaspur), completion of Shahpur Kandi Project completion of works on re-aligned Dhar road, release of balance amount of compensation of land and forest trees, extending employment package to remaining 336 ousted. families and working out of modalities for providing fishing rights on J&K side. |
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Tributes paid to martyrs of Mirpur, Muzaffrabad Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Rich tributes were paid to the martyrs of Mirpur and Muzaffrabad who laid down their lives in 1947, in different functions organised here today. Today’s programme of tributes commenced with ‘Parbhat Pheris’ taken out from different colonies of the POK refugees like Rehari Colony, Bakshi Nagar, Roulki, Sarwal and Reshamghar. The atmosphere echoed with sky bursting slogans like..‘Shaheedan-e-Watan Amar Rahein’ and ..."Shaheedon Ki Kurbani Ko Mat Buloo". Besides a large number of men and women, many school children from the community also participated in the March during wee hours. The March culminated at Shaheedi Smarak at Maheshpura Chowk where floral tributes were paid to the martyrs by the people and remembered them. In connection with this 56th Balidan Divas, the Mirpur Shaheedi Smarak Committee also performed a yagna at Balidan Bhawan, Arya Samaj Mandir Bakshi Nagar to mark the occasion. Meanwhile, a quiz contest was also organised as a part of this programme the other day, where questions related to history and culture of Mirpur, POK were asked from the four teams of students. The mementos were also given to the winners of the contest. The speakers at the public meeting recalled the supreme sacrifices made by the martyrs and paid their glowing tributes. Mr Amar Chand Gupta retired Director Accounts & Treasuries presided over the function. Another function was organised at Gurdwara Bakshinagar jointly by Mirpur Sikh Foundation of India, State Forum for Justice & Human Rights and People representing Mirpur, Muzaffrabad and Poonch areas to mark the fall of Mirpur on Nov 25, 1947 and to pay tributes to the martyrs. The speakers recalled that while brave people or Mirpur organised their civil defence and gave tough resistance to the invaders for more than a month, no contingent of State Forces was dispatched to Mirpur from Jammu and ultimately Mirpur fell to the raiders on Nov 25, 1947. An insignificant number of 200 troops of the state force escorted Rao Rattan Singh, the Deputy Commissioner of Mirpur while leaving the mob of about 25,000 persons to their fate. Over 18,000 were killed, some were made prisoners at Alibeg Camp and a large number of small boys and scholars were mercilessly butchered. Women folk jumped into wells and canals. Many women sacrificed their lives to save their honour. Instances of Master Avtar Singh, Bhai Mohan Singh and Raja Harbans Singh were cited. Sacrifices of a few good Muslims to save non-Muslims of their locality was acknowledged like that of Master Abdul Aziz and Maqbool Sherwani. Hero of Poonch Brig Pritam Singh was also remembered. Prominent among those who spoke on the occasion included—Dr Kulwant Singh-convenor of the Forum, veteran Akali leader-Sant Singh Teg, H S Bahri, C S Gupta, P S Bindra, Dr Gurmeet Singh and others. |
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Court acquits storekeeper in misappropriation case Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, Mr MK Hanjura today acquitted one Om Prakash Bhagat, the then storekeeper Central Jail Jammu against whom charges of misappropriation of store articles worth rupees 1,71,638 were leveled. He was acquitted as the prosecution failed to prove the case. In his 14 page judgment, the Judge observed that the Investigating Officer or any other person has not cared to look into the aspect of the case that the articles alleged to have been misappropriated by the accused were infact shown to have been issued to Hari Chand Bhagat, the then Superintendent Central Jail Jammu and the irony was that this officer constituted a committee to conduct the physical verification and the physical verification in turn has formed the bedrock of this case. The Court maintained that the accused has been compelled to suffer the ordeal of the trial for the lapses on part of the then SP Jail who has flouted the provisions of Jail Manual and CSR on the subject of physical verification of stores. |
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Permanent Lok Adalat settles 40 cases Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov. 25: A permanent Lok Adalat was held here today under the Chairmanship of Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Chairman District Legal Services Authority, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Jammu. Three Benches were constituted. Bench No. 1was headed by Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, assisted by Miss Sudesh Warikoo, Ist Additional District Judge (Bank Cases), Jammu, to deal with Matrimonial and Motor Accidents claims cases, 17 cases of Matrimonial natures were taken up out of which 4 cases were settled. 6 cases of Motor Accidents claims were taken up out of which three cases were settled. Rs. 8,60,000/-was awarded as compensation. Bench No. 2 was headed by Mr. R. K. Wattal, (Special Excise Mobile Magistrate), Jammu assisted by Mr. M. R. Chak 3rd Additional Munsif, Jammu to deal with Municipal cases, 145 cases were taken up out of which 30 cases were settled and Rs. 2500/- were realized as fine. Bench No. 3 was headed by Mr. Vinod Chatterji Koul (Municipal Mobile Magistrate), assisted by Mr. M. R. Chak, 3rd Additional Munsif, Jammu to deal with Excise cases. 18 cases were taken up out of which 3 cases were settled and a fine of Rs. 2800/- was realized. Th. Kartar Singh, Presiding Officer MACT, Jammu, representative of Insurance companies, litigants, Advocates and prominent citizens were present in the Lok Adalat. The next Lok Adalat shall be held on 6.12.2003. |
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Speaker for expeditious rehabilitation of border migrants Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 25: The Speaker Legislative Assembly, Tara Chand convened a high level meeting of officers here today and discussed the issue of rehabilitation of border migrants. The Financial Commissioner, Home, S.D. Singh, Principal Secretary, Planning and Finance, Vijay Bakaya and Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Lokesh Jha attended the meeting. The Speaker reviewed the progress of relief measures and other allied issues concerning the border migrants and stressed upon the officers to vigorously pursue the proposal of relief package sent to the Centre for its early implementation so that the steps for resettling the border people in their homes are taken. The Speaker said that the delay in the process of return of border migrants to their homes will create more problems for them as they are facing many hardships in the camp. Mr Tara Chand also asked the officers to conduct afresh verification of new cases of damages of houses and other property due to Pak shelling so that all the deserving persons could get relief. He referred to his meting with the Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Home Affairs, recently wherein he has assured for early implementation of the relief package announced by the Prime Minister and extension of cash relief for another six months. He emphasized for close coordination with the concerned ministry for early sanctioning of the package. The Speaker also directed the officers to identify the land for construction of permanent shelters for migrants by giving priority to the people living in zero line villages. |
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BJP to launch signature campaign
against Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Terming the decision of coalition Government to increase the electricity load and tariff as arbitrary, irrational and undemocratic, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today demanded white paper on the electricity tariff being generated from the Ministers and bureaucrats. This apart, the party has decided to start signature campaign in Jammu district against this anti-people decision of the coalition Government and if the decision was not taken back the party would start massive agitation. Talking to media-persons, party’s Jammu District Urban president Kavinder Gupta said that by way of increasing electricity load and tariff overnight the Government has conveyed to everyone that it was worst ever cruel, oppressive and anti-people Government and asked what sort of healing touch is this? "The increase in power tariff, electricity load and directions to the consumers to install electronic meters on their own cannot be justified because of the fact that the people of Jammu region already stand marginalised in every sphere. Even shopkeepers who are using electricity only for three hours in the evening have not been spared and their electricity load has been enhanced by 100 percent", he said. Why should the people of Jammu region pay enhanced tariff that too on enhanced load when they are being deprived of benefits in all spheres and how Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had forgotten those appointed by him for just Rs 1500 per month. Is it possible for them to pay Rs 750 as power tariff per month, Mr Gupta asked. Making it clear that BJP is not opposed to the installation of tamper proof meters, he said "we are opposed to installation of meters by the consumers on their own and increase in power tariff as well as electricity load". He sought white paper from the Government about the revenue realisation from the ministers and bureaucrats and alleged that bureaucrats and ministers have been using electricity without paying even a single penny. To intensify struggle to force the Government to withdraw the decision, he said, BJP was going to start signature campaign from December 1 and after that Governor will be apprised that common masses are against this decision. "If the said step would not yield any fruitful result we will organise protests, dharnas and bandhs", he warned. |
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Governor, Chief Minister greet people on Id-ul-Fitr Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Governor Lt. Gen (Retd) S K Sinha and Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed have extended their greetings and good wishes to the people of State on the auspicious occasion of Id-ul-Fitr. In a message, the Governor said that Id-ul-Fitr which marks culmination of the holy month of fasting, symbolize patience, self-discipline and compassion that are the hallmark of Islam. He said that Id brings with it happiness, joy and festivity for every one. The great religious of Islam preaches harmony, self-restraint, equality, brotherhood and peace, which is the need of the hour. He said that all the religions show to the mankind the path of righteousness, humanity and purity of thought. He said that festival of Id reinforces such values and he called upon the people to re-dedicate themselves to these values. The Governor hoped that the Id-ul-Fitr will usher in a new phase of peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister, in his message said that Id-ul-Fitr makes the happy conclusion of the month long fasting and special prayers through which Muslims all over the world undergo a rigorous training of spiritual purification and self-restraint. The holy month of Ramadan, he said, is a unique experience for the devout to submit to the will of almighty and invoke His blessings at the culmination of which is celebrated the Id-ul-Fitr as thanks giving occasion. Mufti Sayeed said that this year’s Id-ul-Fitr has an added significance as it brings a new and strengthened hope for restoration of peace with dignity and end of violence. Being celebrated in the backdrop of fresh peace initiatives by India and Pakistan, this Id may herald a new beginning for which we had been praying for long and bring an end to the sufferings of the people of the State due to prolonged violence and bloodshed. He said that the State and its people have the greatest stake in peace and are looking forward with hope and enthusiasm to the success of these initiatives. He welcomed the latest offer of unilateral cease-fire by Pakistan on the eve of Id-ul-Fitr and India’s positive response to its respecting people’s yearning for peace. The Chief Minister appealed to the people especially the well of sections to spare a thought for the underprivileged and deprived segments of the society and reach out to them on this auspicious occasion. Helping the orphans and the destitute would add to the bliss of Id-ul-Fitr, he added. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Joint Secretary in the Union Home Ministry, H S Brahma clarified his statement regarding treatment to border migrants at par with Kashmiri Pandits. In a rejoinder faxed to Excelsior from Delhi, Mr Brahma clarified that during his visit to Devipur camp at Akhnoor some people raised the issue of enhancing the relief given to the border migrants living in various camps at par with the relief given to Kashmiri migrants. "Again the same issue was also raised in Jammu while I was sitting with Speaker, J&K Assembly, Minister of PWD and R&B and Divisional Commissioner Jammu in which I replied that the issue of payment and revision of relief to the border migrants cannot be decided at my level and this has to be done at the highest level. Of course, I confirmed that there are two scales of relief", he clarified. Regarding other issue of Rs 76 crores package sought by the State Government for rehabilitation of Akhnoor border migrants, he clarified that he had mentioned that the Union Government was keen to rehabilitate the affected families and decision will be taken at appropriate level after consulting the State Government for their expeditious return. On the issue of construction of 444 flats at Anantnag and Budgam, he further clarified that he had mentioned that the State Government has submitted a plan to the Government of India for consideration. "On the specific request of the J&K Government I was deputed to visit the sites etc for which I clearly mentioned that the decision to construct or otherwise will be taken at the highest level in the Ministry after discussing the matter with the State Government", he stated in his rejoinder. |
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Jugal spells private
institutions role in education Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 25: Describing present era an era of knowledge, the Minister for Science, Technology and IT Rigzin Zora emphasized the need of harnessing IT in right perspective for sustainable development through new technique and innovations. He termed IT a potent instrument in transforming socio - economic profile of rural folk and said the coalition Government is struggling a lot to live upto the expectations of the people. The Minister was speaking at the annual day celebration of KAWA Institute of Management of technology at Abhinav Theatre here yesterday. The Minister for PHE and Irrigation, Jugal Kishore presided over the function while MLA, Balwant Singh Mankotia was the guest of honour. Referring to the steps being taken for promoting Information Technology in the State, the Minister said that a mega Software Technology park is coming up in Jammu shortly. Srinagar has already a Software Park and with the facility in Jammu, the younger generation would immensely benefit from the new trends in the field. He exhorted the youth to keep themselves abreast with the advancement of technology that would ultimately place them in good stead in the competitive world. On the part of the Government, he said every possible step would be taken to popularize IT in the State. In this context, he referred to the commitments made by Union Minister for Disinvestment and Information Technology, Arun Shourie and IT expert S.W. Swaminathan who assured to help the State in this field in a big way. The Minister said that the Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, is very keen to expand the reach of IT all over the State on the patron of Andhra Pradesh which has become a role model for the whole country. Mr Rigzin lauded the outstanding performance of the staff as well as students and assured all support from the Government to broaden the horizons of IT in their institute. He said that KAWA has largest number of institutions in the country due to quality of education they provide to the students. Mr. Jugal, who also spoke on the occasion said that proliferation of such good institutions in the State is of utmost importance so that the desirous students do not have to go out State for getting quality education. He said that the responsibility of an institute is not confined only to impart education to students but it should be profession oriented to compete with global standards. He said that the Government is using this facility to bring in simple, moral, accountable, responsive and transparent governance(SMART-GOV). Information Technology would result in generation of employment avenues for the skilled manpower in the State, he added. Later, the Ministers distributed prizes among the excelling students. |
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CMO Udhampur flags off
rally of DAHWA Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 25: Chief Medical Officer Udhampur Dr Tara Singh Charak, flagged off a rally of students and prominent citizens as a part of Sampooran Shiksha Abhiyan, from Government Higher Secondary School Sudh Mahadev in Chenani block under the aegis of Destitute And Handicapped Welfare Association led by Mr S S Sumbria. Over 1000 students, leaders of political and social organisations and prominent citizens participated in the rally. The rallyist were raising slogans stressing on the demand of ‘each one; teach many’ and ‘a learnt mother can teach seven generations. Chief Medical Officer Dr Tara Singh appreciated the efforts of DAHWA and assured all out cooperation and assistance from the Health Department in this regard as also in the proposed health camp to be organized by DAHWA. Mr S S Sumbria, chief of DAHWA spoke about achievements and objectives of DAHWA. He announced to open a vocation centre at each block of Chenani block after its every resident was able to make a signature on his own name. He said training about various trades would be imparted so that people could supplement their income. While thanking the Education Minister for upgrading he school at Sudh Mahadev, Mr Sumbria appealed him to also provide accommodation and other infrastructural facilities for the students. Mr Sumbria demanded opening up of two more centres for providing seed and fertilizer one each at Bape and Sudh Mahadev in view of ensuing Rabi crop, as seed and fertilizer were not available at the existing stores. The camp was organised by Shamsher Chand, Padam Dev Singh and Shanker Singh while others who spoke included M L Sharma, Attar Singh and Block Medical Officer Chenani Dr Bansi Lal. |
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CMH College organises ‘Display Your Talent’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: CMH College of Education organised ‘Display Your Talent’ contest in the college premises wherein students presented various items. The participants presented colourful items depicting culture of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. The items, presented on the occasion, included Saraswati Vandana, skit, dance, monoacting, solo song, Western dance, classical dance, poetry and Punjabi Bhangra and ‘Gidda’. Naresh and Rahul stood first while Rahul and Gurjeet bagged second position. Manju, Sonia and Himanshu remained at third place. The cultural items were highly appreciated by the students , teachers and staff of the college who were among the audience. Chairman of the college, Mr A Choudhary, presided over the function. He appreciated talent of the students and assured that the college management would try to provide them maximum facilities for academic as well as extra curricular activities. Mr Choudhary also sought the co-operation of students in development of the college and maintaining good atmosphere on the campus. |
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JN Wazir Memorial School celebrates Annual Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Wazir Janki Nath Memorial Nursery & Foundation School celebrated its Annual Day. The Minister for Education Harsh Dev Singh was the chief guest on the occasion. The students presented a colourful cultural programme which commenced with Kathak namaskar. It was followed by group songs and folk dances. An interesting feature of the cultural show was presentation of song and dance items by the Tiny Tot of Nursery and LKG classes. Their presentation included patriotic songs. The students also performed Balle conveying the message of saving the environment by afforestation and anti-pollution measures. While Welcome Address was delivered by Sumalini Kotwal, vote of thanks was given by Mrs Himalini Singh, Director of the school. Mrs Sudarshan Wazir presented memento to the chief guest. Aman Wazir son of late Justice JN Wazir is the promoter of the school. The Education Minister Harsh Dev Singh, in his speech, appreciated the talent displayed by the young students in presenting the cultural programme. |
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Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 25: Additional Deputy Commissioner, inaugurated the cleanliness drive in city organized by the Civil Defence Organisation here today. Large number of Civil Defence Wardens, volunteers and senior police officers were present on the occasion. The prominent among those included SSP, Commandant Aux. Police, Deputy Controller CD Jammu, Deputy Chief Warden and volunteers of Jammu city. The procession of CD Wardens /volunteers while displaying the banners was taken out in Old Sabzi Mandi, Pakki Dhakki, Pacca Danga and Parade etc. The volunteers lifted the polythene bags from the roads and streets educating the general public about the ill effects of polythene bags. They appealed the general public not to throw the polythene bags on the roads and streets as they caused pollution in the city and choked the drain. Natrang launches Morning Theatre in Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Morning Theatre for schools was formally launched today by Natrang at Abhinav Theatre with the presentation of Balwant Thakur’s play ‘Mere Hisse Ki Dhoop Kahan Hai’. The inauguration was done by Director School Education Mr Hirdesh Kumar Singh, who was the chief guest. Mr Williams Thomas Charles, Principal, Delhi Public School was honoured on the occasion as a part of launching of Theatre in Education programme in Jammu. Mr Hirdesh Kumar Singh while appreciating the efforts of Natrang said that with the launch of Morning Theatre for school children, Jammu is going to be the first city which has given priority to children in terms of their artistic and intellectual development. Natrang Jammu will be starting its groups in the select schools of the city, which will provide faculty support in performing and fine arts to the students of these institutions. The aim of such units will be to have appreciation course in music, dance, drama, film and fine arts. The inaugural show was followed by repeat show of the play "Mere Hisse Ki Dhoop Kahan Hai" which was specially staged for the students of Army School Kaluchak. It may be recalled that the play "Mere Hisse Ki Dhoop Kahan Hai" has been acclaimed as one of the most significant Theatre production by children and has been staged for over 64 times within Jammu and Kashmir and outside in Delhi, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jabalpur, Patiala and Balaghat (MP). Balwant Thakur said that educational institutions resemble like office and factories and it is not surprising to see the role of a child as a uniformed obedient little machine being fitted with pre-packaged units of science, maths, humanities etc. They are programmed to compete and memorize to pass examination or otherwise to fail or be rejected. The natural methods of artistic expression and education in our times have been divorced from each other. In Theatre-in-education they are re-united and provided a powerful and effective leaning medium for all categories of children whether infant or senior, academically bright of illiterate. Natrang artists who participated in the said play included Sumit Sharma, Pancham Singh, Sonia Sharma, Aarushi Thakur, Mohit Sharma, Mukta Passi, Sajra Qadir, Kanhaiya Sharma, Pawan Verma, Kamaljeet Kour, Deepak Virdhi, Rahul Chanda, Arti Gupta, Biplove Gupta, Ruhi Singh, Juhi Singh, Parul Magotra, Mohd Yaseen, Aatish Gupta and Rohit Verma. Sanjeev Gupta played the music and Satish Lalotra was on Dholak. Suraj Ganjoo designed the lights and Anil Tickoo was assistant director. Pankaj Sharma and Vikrant Sharma were stage managers and Mr Neraj Kant, the production controller. Varsity notes By Nishikant Khajuria The ongoing exhibition of Jammu’s heritage at the University Gymnasium Hall, has been extended for another day following unprecedented response of visitors, including VVIPs and students. Now the valedictory function, which was scheduled to be held tomorrow, will be organised on November 27 at 11 a.m. Colourful cultural items, including traditional Dogri dance, Bhaderwahi ‘Kud’ and Basohli’s ‘Gitlu’ will be presented in the function. Till date, the exhibition has been visited by at least 10,000 people. Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma, Education Minister Harshdev Singh, Mohd Yusuf Tarigami, Jugal Kishore, Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari (all MLAs) and Mohd Yusuf Teng are among the dignitaries who visited the exhibition and evinced keen interest in the rare artefacts displayed there. Around 3500 students from different schools and colleges in Jammu region, visited the exhibition and witnessed their glorious heritage. According to Dr Anita Charak Billowaria, head of the Centre for History and Culture of Jammu Ladakh Regions and member of JU Heritage Cell, the first ever exhibition of Jammu’s heritage in the University received tremendous response of commoners as well as intellegentia. Main objective of the exhibition was to aware new generation about their rich cultural heritage, she added. * * * * * Jammu University and its affiliated private B Ed colleges are caught in an uncomfortable situation following the non-State students demand to either get their B Ed degree recognised by the National Council of Teaching Education ( NCTE) or refund their admission fee. While getting recognition from NCTE - the all India governing body for B Ed colleges, during the ongoing session is impossible, refund of admission fee to the students who are demanding for the same, is also impractical. However, on the other hand, demand of around 6000 students from Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and other parts of the country, who have been admitted to different colleges here for the current session, also can not be termed unjustified following a recent job advertisement notification by the Rajasthan Government according to which the B Ed degree, not recognised by NCTE, is invalid. Till publication of this advertisement, the B Ed degree of any institution, affiliated to Jammu University or Kashmir University, was considered valid despite its not being recognised by NCTE because of special status to the State under Article 370 of Indian Constitution. It may be mentioned here that B Ed degree of Jammu University and Kashmir University are recognised only by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and not by the NCTE (National Council for Teacher’s Education). However, except for Jammu and Kashmir State, the B Ed colleges all over the country are required to be recognised by NCTE. According to official sources, though the NCTE had asked JU to get its B Ed course recognised from the body during the tenure of Prof Y R Malhotra as the Vice-Chancellor, the University did not apply for the same taking plea of advantage of Article 370 of the Constitution. At that time, getting B Ed degree recognised by NCTE, was considered unprofitable for the JU Directorate of Distance Education (DDE) since the governing body permitted only 500 seats for the Directorate where thousands of students were admitted for the course per year, disclosed the University sources. Further, the duration of NCTE recognised B Ed course is two years instead of one year and their syllabi is also different from that of the only UGC recognised. Keeping in view of these points, then JU administration felt it better to continue with the only UGC recognised B Ed course and no question mark was raised over validity of the University degree till last academic session. However, the Rajasthan Government’s decision has caught Jammu University and its affiliated private B Ed colleges between devil and deep sea. While continuing with the only UGC recognised degree spells almost nill inflow of students from outside the State, applying for the NCTE recognition means a cut short in the number of seats and creation of more infrastructure. Sahara to operate flight to Jammu, Srinagar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 25: Sahara Airlines will soon become the third Airlines to operate its flight to Jammu and Srinagar, the two capital cities of the State. According to sources, Sahara Airlines is introducing its flight to Jammu and Srinagar from December 10. Initially, the Airlines will operate a medium 50 seater aircraft. Its flight will operate from new Delhi-Jammu-Srinagar-Jammu-New Delhi. The Airlines also planned to connect Chandigarh with Jammu via air route. Presently, Chandigarh has not been connected with Jammu either by air or by rail. So far, only Indian Airlines and Jet Airways are operating their one flight each to Jammu and Srinagar. |
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