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of physically challenged Every penny offered at shrines to be utilized according to tenets of Islam: Mufti Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today asserted that every penny of the offerings made....more Man dies
mysteriously; Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: A man died under mysterious circumstances while as three persons allegedly made attempts..........more DSS
warns agitation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: The Dogra Sadar Sabha (DSS) today warned to launch a protest demonstration on October 18......more Irregularities
in Polytechnic exam results Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: To catch attention of authorities, an aggrieved Polytechnic student took the extreme step.......more DGP orders
promotion Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Director General of Police Gopal Sharma has ordered promotion..........more |
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ICRC hails
Mufti’s healing Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Asserting that conditions in jails in Jammu and Kashmir are best in the country, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that the coalition Government believes in pursuing humane approach even while dealing with militancy situation......more DB admits
two LPAs Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: A division bench of State High Court Jammu wing comprising Justice R C Gandhi and Justice Y P Nargotra admitted two Latters Patent Appeals (LPAs) filed by Owais Ahmed whose services as Assistant Tourist........more Sarpanchs,
Panchs of Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 15: Sarpanchs and Panchs of all the blocks of district Kathua staged dharna at the district headquarters here in support of their common demand......more Dy CM
provides incentives Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: As a part of the State industrial package envisaging attractive incentives to the entrepreneurs to set up.....more |
Wakaf Board organises camp in aid
of physically challenged Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today asserted that every penny of the offerings made at the shrines and the income of the Wakaf Board would be utilized for the benefit of the deserving according to the tenets of Islam. He said activities of the Board would be transparent and open to public scrutiny. The Chief Minister who is also the Chairman, J&K Wakaf Board, was addressing a largely attended function at the camp organised here by the Board in collaboration with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, a Rajasthan based NGO known the world over for manufacture of the Jaipur Foot, for distributing artificial limbs, clippers and tricycles among physically challenged persons. The Lions Club, Srinagar and Mumbia and J&K Bank also extended a helping hand. "Wakaf Board besaharoon ka sahara banega", Mufti Sayeed said and affirmed that the orphans and the destitute would be the main focus of the Board. He said thousands of children have been rendered orphans, women widowed and maimed during the prolonged turmoil in the State. These people, he said, need the help and the Wakaf Board had to rise to the occasion and meet the challenge. Disapproving the idea of raising commercial complexes by the Board out of the offerings made by the people, the Chief Minister said the money would be spent for the noble purpose it had been offered. "I do not want to criticize anybody but the fact remains that Rs. 2 crore is still outstanding with tenants as rent of the commercial buildings constructed by the erstwhile Muslim Aufaq Trust", he said adding that he would rather like to invest this money in the welfare of the destitute. Referring to the institution of Zakat as envisaged in Islam, the Chief Minister said the fund would be spent specifically in aid of the persons as identified by the Quran and Shariah. He said every penny would be accounted for and the accounts made available for public audit on the recently launched website of the Board. He said he was receiving calls from affluent Kashmiris settled abroad willing to contribute to the Zakat fund of the Board that would further boost welfare activities of the Board. The Chief Minister announced setting up of a Rehabilitation Centre here for providing artificial limbs to the physically challenged and offered land to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti for the purpose. The Centre would locally manufacture the Jaipur Foot and prosthetic aid for the disabled. He expressed pleasure on the Wakaf Board initiative to reach out to the physically challenged. Dwelling on other activities of the Wakaf Board, Mufti Sayeed said that environment around the Hazratbal Shrine would be improved and the entire premises given a facelift to allow more and clean space for the devotees. Likewise, he said, the famous Idgah and the Baba Rishi Shrine would be properly developed. He said the Tourism Department has also allocated Rs. One crore for the development of the Baba Rishi Shrine. Later, the Chief Minister formally inaugurated the 10-day camp where 500 physically challenged persons including 23 Rajouri landmine victims, have been registered for receiving artificial limbs and other prosthetic aid. Interacting with physically challenged persons at the camp, Mufti Sayeed expressed dismay at the delay in providing relief to the victims of landmine blasts, cross border firing and other militancy related incidents some of whom were waiting for assistance for over two years. He asked the concerned agencies to prepare a list of such persons for immediate relief. In his address, Dr. Mehta introduced his organization and said about 19000 ‘Jaipur Foot’ were provided by the Samiti every year to the needy. Dr. Mehta said that his organization was working on the improvement of the Jaipur Foot with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop a lighter and more convenient aid. He said the Samiti would hold mobile camps in Jammu and Kashmir. On this occasion, two physically challenged persons equipped with the Jaipur Foot demonstrated their running skill despite the handicap. |
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Man dies mysteriously; 3 attempts suicide Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: A man died under mysterious circumstances while as three persons allegedly made attempts to end their lives. Police spokesman said that a man—Javed Iqbal, son of Mohd Hussain of Gandoh died under mysterious circumstances at village Thalerian. He was spotted by some villagers, who immediately informed the police and shifted him to hospital. Police has initiated proceedings under Section 174 RPC. Meanwhile, two persons—Hem Raj, son of Hans Raj of Prithvi Chak under the jurisdiction of Kathua Police Station and Neeru, daughter of Joginder Singh of Santra Morh under Pouni Police Post allegedly consumed poisonous substance at their respective residence. Both were rushed to Government Medical College Hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. Doctors attending on them immediately provided them stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. Their condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. It could not be ascertained as to what prompted them to take this extreme step. A 38-year old man Balbir Singh, son of Thoru Singh of Faloura attempted to end his life by hanging himself at his residence. But his attempt was foiled by family members, who immediately swung into action as soon as they came to know about Balbir Singh hanging himself. Balbir Singh was rushed to hospital and his condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. Meanwhile, Jatinder Singh, son of Mohinder Singh of Nanak Nagar received severe injuries after his scooter was hit by a car at Sanjay Nagar under Gandhi Nagar Police Station. He has been hospitalised. One Parveen Gupta, son of Mulkh Raj of Billawar received severe burn injuries in accidental fire at his residence. He has been hospitalised and his condition was stated to be critical. |
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DSS
warns agitation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: The Dogra Sadar Sabha (DSS) today warned to launch a protest demonstration on October 18 in case the Centre further delays inclusion of Dogri language into the 8th Schedule of Indian Constitution. This warning came from DSS chief and MLC, Gulchain Singh Charak at a joint meeting of various organizations and educationists organized by Sabha here this evening. He criticized the Centre for its delay-dallying tactics on the issue saying despite the assurances given by the Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, no steps have been taken to fulfill this demand. He said after the support of Congress and other parties the Centre should have no difficulty in the inclusion of this language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. Addressing the meeting Prof M R Puri, former Vice Chancellor, Jammu University said the inclusion of Dogri in the 8th Schedule is an old demand and it was raised by Dr Karan Singh and Dr D C Prashant at many times in Parliament earlier. Quoting Dr Prashant he said, the main hurdle in the inclusion of this language is the technical problem i. e no two languages from a state have been included in the 8th Schedule . He said it was the result of protracted struggle by the people of Jammu region that a new agriculture university was established for the region. He however regretted that this institute has been named after Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and urged the Government that the name of both SKUAST, Jammu and second bridge on River Tawi be changed. He urged the DSS to keep this point also in its agenda. Expressing concern over the delaying tactics adopted by the Centre over the issue, Prof Baldev Singh said the Dogri language was facing total discrimination through the hands of Union Government. He said over 46 lakh people speak Dogri and there was no reason in its non inclusion in the 8th Schedule when Kunkuni, Manipuri and Nepali languages which are spoken by 17 lakh, 12 lakh and 20 lakh people respectively have been included. Om Parkash Gupta, vice president Chamber while assuring full support to the struggle on behalf of trading community said a united battle should be launched for achieving the goal. Sita Ram Sapolia from Samba assured full support to the struggle saying the message should be taken to every nook and corner of the region. Supporting the demand Gurcharan Singh Oberoi expressed serious concern over the stepmotherly treatment which the Dogri language has been given despite the fact that 40 percent of Indian Infantry people are from Dogras. Ex MLA Baldev Sharma while supporting the DSS move regretted that the small languages have been included in the 8th Schedule While the Dogri has been deprived of its due share. Among others the senior Congress leader Pradhuman Singh also addressed the meeting. |
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Irregularities
in Polytechnic exam results Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: To catch attention of authorities, an aggrieved Polytechnic student took the extreme step when he attempted self immolation during a protest demonstration in front of J&K Technical Board office, here today. The student, identified as Prikshit Singh, a student of IInd year in Government Polytechnic for Boys, Jammu, sprinkled kerosene oil on his body and set himself on fire. Even as other students in the demonstration, immediately rushed to save their colleague and extinguished the flames, Prikshit fell unconscious and sustained minor burns. He was immediately shifted to Gandhi Nagar hospital where doctors declared him out of danger. Police also rushed to the spot and controlled the situation. The trouble errupted this morning around 11.30 a.m. when students from different Polytechnics in Jammu assembled near the office of J&K Technical Board at Bikram Chowk and held demonstration in protest against alleged irregularities in the examination results. They raised slogans against the J&K Technical Board and demanded re-evaluation of their answer sheets. The protesting students, including girls, were also demanding introduction of carry-on system in Polytechnics and a through probe into alleged irregularities in the exam results. The immolation drama took place during demonstration following which the protesting students were forced by police to march towards Government Polytechnic for Boys where office of the Principal was gheroed. The protesting students were addressed by SSF president Rajinder Singh Jogi and ABVP leader Pawan Sharma who extended their full support to the Polytechnic students’ demands. They announced that the ongoing protests will continue till all demands of Polytechnic students are conceeded by the Government. Mr Jogi also demanded separate Technical Board for Jammu. Meanwhile, the State Board of Technical Education has notified that the Polytechnic students who have any complaint regarding examination results, can get their answer scripts re-checked. After re-checking, if the Board authorities feel that there is any irregularity committed by the examiner or Board officials, the answer scripts of such candidates can be got re-evaluated, notification issued by the Board Secretary Prof A G Khan, added. However, regarding change in the policy of allowing candidates failing in more than 4 subjects to sit in the next class, the matter is being taken up with the higher authorities, the notice further said. |
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DGP orders promotion of 9 ASIs, 18 HC of Telecom cadre Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Director General of Police Gopal Sharma has ordered promotion of nine Assistant Sub-Inspectors and 18 Head Constables of Police Telecom. This apart, sanction has been accorded to the grant of promotion INSITU in favour of two Inspectors and seven Sub-Inspectors of Police Telecom cadre. The Assistant Sub-Inspectors of Police Telecom Cadre, who were brought on promotion list "E" of the cadre recently, have been promoted as Sub-Inspectors with immediate effect. They are Vijay Kumar, Bal Krishan, Ashok Kumar, Kamal Kishore, Avtar Singh, Kanwal Singh, Harbans Lal, Bodh Raj (SC) and Mohd Akbar (ST). The Head Constables of Police Telecom cadre, who were brought on promotion list "D" and promoted as Assistant Sub-Inspectors are—Javid Hussain, Ali Mohammad, Ghulam Hassan, Abdul Ahad, Kewal Krishan, Kuldeep Singh, Kuldeep Singh, Om Parkash, Ghulam Mohammad, Narotam Singh, Ali Mohammad, Tahseen Ahmad, Sunil Krishen, Mohammad Amin, Ghulam Nabi, Romesh Kumar, Manzoor Hussain and Natha Ram (SC). Meanwhile, DGP accorded sanction to the grant of promotion INSITU in favour of two Inspectors and seven Sub-Inspectors of Police Telecom cadre with effect from the dates the promotions are due to them (after completion of nine years of service in present rank) in terms of SRO-14 of 1996 dated January 15, 1996 (Higher Standard of Pay Scale Scheme) Rules—1996. They are Inspector Bashir Ahmed No. 2353/NGO, Inspector Bashir Ahmed No. 2355/NGO, SI Madan Mohan, SI Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, SI Showkat Ahmad, SI Ghulam Hassan, SI Ajay Punjabi, SI Ravinder Kumar and SI Surjeet Singh. However, SI Madan Mohan is being granted Promotion INSITU from January one, 2002—the date he qualified for the same and SI Surjeet Singh is being granted the same in the rank of ASI with effect from January 1, 1996—the date he qualified for the same in the said rank. Meanwhile, SI(W) Manmeet Singh, whose promotion to the rank of Inspector was not cleared during the year 2002 owing to pendency of departmental enquiry and missing of the page of his service record, has ultimately been promoted as Inspector with effect from date when his immediate junior was promoted as such. The DGP order mentioned that his name shall figure in the seniority list between Inspector Abdul Mateen Taq and Inspector Shoqkat Sultan. SI Manmeet Singh was promoted after his involvement in the case was not established during departmental enquiry. |
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ICRC hails Mufti’s healing touch philosophy Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Asserting that conditions in jails in Jammu and Kashmir are best in the country, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that the coalition Government believes in pursuing humane approach even while dealing with militancy situation. Interacting with a team of International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) headed by its Regional Director, South Asia, Mr. Vincent Nicod here this evening, the Chief Minister said that clear instructions have been issued to law enforcing agencies to adopt innovative methods of interrogation to elicit information from arrested persons without torturing them. He said, he has been in constant touch with the jail and police authorities to get proper feedback. He, however, added that militancy situation is most challenging especially in view of fidayeen attacks. But even then the forces by and large exercise exemplary restraint to ensure that no innocent is harmed while responding to the situation. The Chief Minister said that with the help of the people, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has improved discernibly and atmosphere is considerably relaxed. He said the people are yearning for peace and it will dawn sooner than latter though it is a time consuming process. He said there is now sense of security among the people with markets remaining abuzz with activity till late in the evening, which was not the case in the past. The Chief Minister urged the ICRC team to provide constant feedback to the state authorities as there is always a scope for improvement in any situation. He said the arrests are not much now and only those are apprehended who are involved in theft and other normal crimes. The Chief Minister said that an erroneous perception has been created in Pakistan that the people of Kashmir are captives of the security forces. He asserted that we are a free people, which everyone can see for himself. Mr. Nicod appreciated the healing touch philosophy of the Mufti Government and said it goes well with the objectives of the ICRC. He said the organization has very good contact and working relationship with the leadership of police and security forces in the state, adding that the conditions in prisons are good in Jammu and Kashmir. He said they fully appreciate the situation confronting the State Government and appreciated the cooperation being extended by the local branch of the Red Cross to ICRC. |
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DB admits two LPAs of Owais Ahmed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: A division bench of State High Court Jammu wing comprising Justice R C Gandhi and Justice Y P Nargotra admitted two Latters Patent Appeals (LPAs) filed by Owais Ahmed whose services as Assistant Tourist Officer has been quashed by the Single Judge and issued notice to the respondents. Owais Ahmed is son of Mohammed Shafi Uri, a Cabinet Minister in Farooq Abdullah Government. Division bench also stayed the operation of Single Judge’s order dated September 15, 2003 whereby the appointment of Owais Ahmed was quashed in relaxation of rules. Two LPAs filed in a two writ petitions filed by Rajan Gupta and Yogal Kishore Anand challenging the appointment of Owais Ahmed in relaxation of rules vide Order No 1421-GAD of 1998 dated October 29, 1998. Advocated D C Raina, appeared for the appellant during the course of arguments, submitted that the state has the power to relax the recruitment rules or any other rules made under Article 309 of the Constitution of India, read with the corresponding provision contained in Section 124 of the Constitution of the State. Such relaxation, according to advocate Raina, is permissible to meet any emergent situation where un-justice mights have been caused or likely to be caused to an individual or class of employees or where the working of the rule might have become impossible. It is worthwhile to mention here that Single Judge while quashing the alleged backdoor appointment of a son of Minister referred various judgments of the Supreme Court and division bench of the State High Court. The decision of the Single Judge was challenged by the appellant in the division bench and today stayed operation of the decision. |
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Sarpanchs, Panchs of Kathua stage dharna Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 15: Sarpanchs and Panchs of all the blocks of district Kathua staged dharna at the district headquarters here in support of their common demand of delegating more powers to them. The Panchayat members as per their scheduled programme assembled near DC office ( Mini Secretariat) in the morning and held massive demonstration followed by day long dharna. Sarpanchs from various Panchayats also spoke on the occasion and criticised the concerned Ministry for not providing full powers to them. They said the Panchayat elections were held in 2001 but till date they were not given full powers as per the constitution for the effective participation in the decision making process. The major allotment of funds is still on the disposal of BDOs and District authorities of the RDD. Later, the Sarpanchs also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister through Deputy Commissioner Kathua. The main demands raised in the memorandum included— grant of full powers to the Panchayats, sanction of monthly honorarium of Rs 4500 to 5000 to the Panchayat members, provision of emergency funds to the Panchayats, Utilisation of MLAs, MPs, MLCs funds with the consent of Panchayat Members etc. Pt Govind Ram Sharma, Parshotam Singh , Mohan Singh and Balkar Singh were leading this agitation. They stressed for the realy resolution of their demands. Meanwhile, another deputation of Panchayat members led by Sarpanch Chaggar Singh also met DC Kathua and submitted a memorandum today. He also apprised him of the water scarcity related problem being faced by the people of Chhanpora, Chandwan in Hiranagar area. |
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Dy CM provides incentives to entrepreneurs Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: As a part of the State industrial package envisaging attractive incentives to the entrepreneurs to set up their industrial ventures, Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma today provided incentives amounting to over Rs. 5 lakh to four entrepreneurs of the Kashmir valley at a function here this morning. Among others, present at the function, were Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce A. Sahasranaman and Director Industries N.K. Verma. The entrepreneurs who were given incentives include M/s Banday Impex Pvt. Ltd., M/s Khyber Industries Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Tramboo Cement Industries. M/s Sangergul Ice Cream Factory, Tral was also given incentives amounting to Rs. 1.12 lakh as 30% capital investment subsidy. The other three entrepreneurs were given incentives as interest rebate on working capital, subsidy on project report and subsidy on purchase and installation of testing equipment. Interacting with the entrepreneurs, the Deputy Chief Minister called upon the unemployed to come forward in a big way and set up their industrial ventures for which the Government will provide attractive incentives. He urged the people to avail the benefits provided under the industrial package adding that Jammu and Kashmir is the only State in the country where incentives are available under Central and State packages. Mr. Sharma asked the Director Industries to immediately sanction the incentives due for the second quarter so that the entrepreneurs do not face difficulty in installing their units. In the meantime, the Government today released funds to the tune of Rs. 8.91 lakh for District Industries Centre, Leh as a part of the package of the incentives for the current financial year. Earlier, Rs. 27.83 lakh had been provided to Leh under the package. |
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Seminar on promotion
of leather industry in J&K Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Saying that Jammu and Kashmir has vast potential for promotion of leather industry, Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma today called upon the industrialists both within and outside the State to invest in a big way and make optimum utilization of available raw material. He was inaugurating a seminar on "Promotion of Leather Industry in Jammu and Kashmir" organized by SIDCO at SKICC here. Leading leather exporters of the country especially from Chennai including Dr. T. Ramaswami, Director, Centre Leather Research Institute (CLRI) participated. Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Raman Mattoo, Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce, A. Sahasranaman, senior officers of industries and allied departments besides local industrialists were also present. The purpose of holding the seminar was to find out ways and means as to how the State could be developed industrially and to boost its economy. Mr. Sharma said the State, having large reserves of limestone, gypsum and other raw material, has not been able to tap these optimally due to resource constraints resulting in industrial backwardness. However, he expressed the hope that the steps taken by the coalition Government and subsequent visits by the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and he himself to invite the industrialists to invest in Jammu and Kashmir have started showing encouraging results and the State has received investment proposals worth several hundred crores of rupees recently. Dispelling the apprehensions of the industrialists about the security concerns, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is as safe as any other part of the country notwithstanding stray incidents of violence at isolated places. He made a fervent appeal to the industrialists of the country to invest in Jammu and Kashmir saying that investment in the State would be for investment in peace. The investment in the State will help in alienating the people’s problems and remove discontent among the unemployed youth, Mr. Sharma added. Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Raman Mattoo stressed the need for optimum utilization of available raw material and called upon the industrialists to help in industrial development of the State, which has heavily suffered due to the turmoil. He said rapid industrialization will bring a great revolution to the state’s economy besides meeting the challenge of growing unemployment problem. Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce, A. Sahasranaman, in his welcome address, said that the Government accords top priority to the promotion of leather industry and dwelt at length on the state’s industrial policy and incentives available to entrepreneurs. He said Jammu and Kashmir is the only State in the country where incentives are available under the Central and the State Industrial packages. Director, CLRI, T. Ramaswami assured full cooperation for promoting leather industry in the State for which sustainable raw material is locally available. He said the institute will provide training on updating the leather technology. He said the visit of the leather exporters to the valley is the outcome of the Chief Minister’s interaction with them at Chennai recently. Mr. M.M. Hashmi, a leading exporter of the country, said the Jammu and Kashmir was climatically ideal for promotion of leather industry. He said the annual leather production of the country has touched a record of Rs. 20,000 crore. He said the industrialists would consider going in for joint venture with the State Government for promotion of leather industry in Jammu and Kashmir. |
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Professionally qualified persons
should Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Stressing the need for encouraging professionalism in governance, Minister for Finance and Planning, Muzaffar Hussain Baig today called for making productive use of human resource by engaging professionally qualified persons for manning technical jobs. Speaking at the inauguration of the 2-day seminar on "Role of Technical Manpower in Laboratory Services in the Contemporary Science Curriculum", at University of Kashmir, the Minister said the Government could even consider amending the recruitment rules to ensure that professionally qualified persons are appointed against the posts which are of purely technical nature and require specialized expertise in the respected area. The State, Mr. Baig said is rich in human resource wealth which needs to be put to productive use by channelising its knowledge towards the specialized areas, it has been trained for. "Take the example of Singapore, the country with almost negligible mineral and other natural resources. Even the drinking water for that country is coming from Malaysia", he said adding that even then the people there were among the richest of the world in terms of per capita income. The secret behind Singapore’s prosperity, he said is its human resource development, which has immensely contributed towards its progress, "Why can’t we replicate the same model for our society", he asked. The main hurdle in the development and proper use of the human resource in the State, Mr. Baig said is the lack of equitable opportunities of education and other basic amenities of life to the people. To achieve this objective, he said focused attention has to be laid on making available quality education to the people across the State. "Without education, we can’t expect a great revolution", he said adding that unfortunately, it is the area, which has not got proper attention in the past. He said the government’s have failed to keep pace with the growing demand for educational facilities with the increase in population, resulting in deterioration of educational standards. "You can’t improve the lot of the society by improving the living conditions of the top 5 per cent, you have to give equal share in development to the remaining 95 per cent who are still far away from development", he said. Blaming the myopic policy makers for throwing the educational sector into the oblivion, the Minister said the misplaced priorities and lopsided planning have added to the rot that has crept into the system over a period of time. "To make the planning process more result-oriented, the Government have to consult the right people from the field as it is a participatory process", he said and added that unfortunately that has not been the case with the democracies. To bring about a revolutionary change in the society, Mr. Baig said the leaders have to be visionary. "If the very people who formulate and execute plans, suffer from lack of commitment and knowledge, how can they prove successful leaders", he said and added that it is not only reflects the Government apathy but lack of respect for our future generations as well. Mr. Baig hailed the initiatives taken by the Vice-Chancellor of the Kashmir University, Prof Jalees Ahmad Khan Tareen to bring an overall change in the academic and other activities at the campus. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Education, A.R. Veeri called for introducing specialized courses to produce skilled hands in the State. He said to keep pace with the growing market needs for skilled manpower, there is a need to introduce more professional courses in the educational institutions. He also called for greater participation of private sector in making available quality education in the State. He said there has been manifold increase in the roll of students and the Government alone can’t keep pace with the increasing demand for educational facilities. He said the private sector has to chip in to facilitate the efforts of the Government by setting up institutions of higher education in the State. Earlier, Prof M.A. Qureshi, Head of Department Chemistry, the organizers of the seminar, threw light on the objectives and aims of organizing the seminar. |
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Agri Deptt's exhibition on World Food Day today Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: In connection with the World Food Day being celebrated tomorrow, the Agriculture Production Department in coordination with Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, would organize a grand exhibition to display major achievements registered by the various allied development departments including horticulture, agriculture, animal and sheep husbandry and sericulture departments at the SKUAST (K) museum complex. About 400 progressive farmers from across the State would be given first hand information regarding latest advancements and technologies related to agriculture promotion during the day long programme. The Vice Chancellor SKUAST, Kashmir will inaugurate the exhibition. This was decided at a high level meeting held here today to finalize arrangements for "World Food Day" celebrations. The Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production, B.R. Kundal presided. The theme of the current year’s "World Food Day" is "international alliance against hunger". Besides the main function at SKUAST, special programmes would also be held at all the district headquarters of the State. A lecture session on significance of the "World Food Day" would also be held wherein lectures on importance of global agriculture trade, importance of intellectual property rights, biodiversity, its conservation and exchange, and role of organic foods would also be held at SKUAST, Kashmir which would be followed by farmer and scientist interaction. Mr. B. R. Kundal, impressed upon the concerned officers to launch massive awareness programme about the World Food Day in their respective areas. |
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Corps of EME celebrates 60th anniversary Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Oct 15: Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) celebrated its Diamond Jubilee anniversary today. Maj Gen R S Batra, Maj Gen EME and Colonel Commandant, extended his greetings and good wishes to all ranks of Corps of EME in Northern Command including civilians and their families. He also complimented all ranks or their dedication and significant contribution in ensuring high operational fitness of the state of the art weapons systems and equipment in the Northern Command theatre. Corps of Eme has an onerous task to provide engineering support to all types of vehicles, guns, communication equipment, radars, helicopters and other state of the art equipment including UAVs. EME personnel are trained well and have kept pace with the fast changing technologies. They have carried out unique and innovative repairs overcoming various hurdles including the hazards of terrain and high altitude. In execution of their task, they have operated effectively both in the rear and forward areas supporting the troops deployed in low intensity conflict operations as well as those deployed on the borders in the face of enemy. EME has risen to the occasion and met the challenges of complexity of repairs and maintenance of modern equipment and weapon system deployed in the theatre. Apart from excelling in the professional field and soldiering, EME has also performed exceedingly well in national and international sports arena and won noteworthy laurels. It is staking its claim to getting international recognition in the field of Sailing and Rowing. To mark the celebrations a number of events were conducted including Barakhana and Pagal Gymkhana. Lt Gen Hari Prasad, Army commander complimented all ranks of EME on the eve of Diamond Jubilee celebration by stating "On the occasion of 60th Corps Day of EME I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all ranks, civil staff and their families and I wish you continued success in all your future endeavours, good luck and God speed". |
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Peerzada inaugurates 3-day workshop Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Minister for Rural Development Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed inaugurated 3-day capacity building workshop for NGOs here today. The workshop was organized by Kashmir Valley Welfare Association and NGO from Srinagar in collaboration with Council for Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology regional committee Chandigarh. The workshop aimed at building the capacity among the NGOs of J&K. Secretary Union Ministry of Rural Development, Mr M.Shanker, Chief Secretary, Dr.Sudhir. S. Bloeria, Director General CAPART, Secretary Rural Development Department and Director Rural Development were also present. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that Government is all set to implement Panchayati Raj in the State. He said elections in leftover Panchayats would be conducted on schedule. He said that NGOs can play a vital role in making peoples participations in implementation of development and welfare schemes initiated by the State Government under various centrally sponsored schemes. He stressed the need for making people aware about the programmes and policies of the Government. The Minister called upon the NGOs to get expertise from the experts participating in workshop. Union Secretary Ministry of Rural Development also spoke on the occasion and said that implementation of Panchayati Raj is on the top of government’s agenda. |
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VHP-Bajrang Dal activists leave for Ayodhya Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Notwithstanding, what they called, oppressive measures being undertaken by Mulayam Singh Yadav Government to suppress the Ram Bhakts, a large number of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal (BD) activists today left for Ayodhya to participate in scheduled convention of the VHP on October 17, 2003. Shouting slogans in favour of Ram temple, the activists marched through different bazaars and localities of the city before reaching at Railway Station. Jai Shree Ram, Sogand Ram Ke Khatey Hai- Hum Mandir Vahi Banaigay repeatedly rented in the air as enthusiastic VHP activists were shouting slogans in favour of Ram Temple. The batch of VHP activists which left for Ayodhya comprised some Sadhus and prominent leaders of the state unit of the Parishad apart from large number of the activists of the Bajrang Dal. The procession started from Geeta Bhawan and passed through Parade Ground, Moti Bazaar, Pucca Danga, Purani Mandi and many other bazaars of the city. The processionists were led by Hem Raj Khajuria, Sushil Sudan, Nandkishore Sharma and Omi Khajuria. A large number of people including some prominent citizens were seen also accompanying the Ram Bhakts. At some places the processionists were received by the people. Religious fervour gripped Jammu Railway Station when large number of people reached there and resorted to shouting slogans in favour of Lord Rama. With saffron bands on their heads, youth were shouting Hum Mandir Vahi Banaigay and their slogans were echoing in the closed Railway Station. Earlier, while addressing the Ram Bhakts at Geeta Bhawan, VHP state president Dr Rama Kant Dubey warned the Government against adopting oppressive measures to stifle voices of Ram Bhakts who want to start peaceful agitation for the construction of Ram Temple at the birth place of Lord Rama. He said that Mulayam Singh Government has been repeating previous mistakes. Asserting that Hindus will not succumb to any pressure from the Government, he said that temple will be constructed at the birth place of Lord Rama. He warned the Government against playing with the sentiments of the Hindus. Other speakers, exhorted the Hindus to come forward to pressurise, what they called, ‘so-called secular parties’ to support construction of Rama Temple. Hindus must united work for the construction of the Rama Temple. They said that construction of Rama Temple was must to restore the dignity and honour of the nation. |
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Lal Singh for upgrading medical infrastructure Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Oct 15: Maintaining that the Government is committed to equip all the health institutions of the State with latest diagnostic facilities and adequate infrastructure, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Ch. Lal Singh today said that the basic objective is to provide best possible health care to the ailing humanity. Addressing the Heads of Department from Government Medical College, Jammu, in a meeting convened here today, the Minister stressed for working in a very planned and systematic manner to provide maximum benefits to the patients. The meeting was convened to priorities the requirements of various departments and provide these within the existing funds in a phased manner. The Heads of Department deliberated upon all the requirements, which included machinery, equipment and other infrastructure alongwith the approximate cost involved. They apprised the Minister of immediate necessities of varied departments for the convenience of the patients. They emphasized on posting of Bio medial engineers in the Government Medical College, Jammu for routine maintenance of highly sophisticated machinery and equipment. Mr. Singh discussed the requirements put forth and said that the equipments and other facilities would be provided on need basis and the ones urgently required would be sanctioned first within the available resources. He assured that the remaining infrastructure would be kept in ultimate requirement quota and as soon as more funds are available these would also be provided. He reiterated that the priority will be provided to ease the sufferings of the patients who have pinned high hopes on the new regime. He said that things have changed and people themselves have witnessed tremendous improvement in the working of the health institutions and prefer to be treated in Government run hospitals, centres rather than going for the expensive private ones. He asked the doctors to work with added zeal and dedication to uphold the sanctity of this sacred profession. Principal GMC, Jammu Dr. H. L. Goswami was also present on the occasion. Later the Minister interacted with the health functionaries from various districts of Jammu in a meeting convened at Government Medical College, Jammu this afternoon. Mr. Singh sought their cooperation and welcomed suggestions to further strengthen the district health institutions. He expressed his satisfaction over the working of the health centres but at the same time stressed for providing the efficient health care delivery system to the people especially those residing in far flung, remote areas of the districts. He assured to equip the health centres, which remained neglected over the years with all basic facilities to provide much needed relief to the inhabitants. The doctors gave list of immediate requirements of their respective medical institutions to the Minister and apprised him of other problems being faced by the staff. Mr. Singh said that the purpose of organizing the district level meet was to provide an opportunity to the doctors to put forth their problems and demands for early solution and discuss various other related matters. He gave a nod to the urgent requirements and assured that the rest would be provided in due course of time subject to availability of funds. He said that their other genuine grievance would also be redressed shortly and assured justice with every staffer irrespective of being junior or senior in rank. |
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Mula Ram distributes certificates among trainees Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Oct 15: The Government is contemplating to set up institutions one each at Jammu and Srinagar for imparting training to field functionaries of Social Welfare Department instead of sending them outside the State for training. This was Stated by the Minister for Social Welfare, Mula Ram at a valedictory function organized here today for distribution of certificates among the trainees who have completed 3-month job training course at various training centres. The training was imparted to the Anganwari workers in Nutrition, pre-school education, immunization, health chock up and health and nutritions education. Referring to the demands, the Minister said that norms have been set up to promote Anganwari workers on the basis of merit and education. 50 per cent promotions have been reserved for Anganwari workers, he added. Mr. Mula Ram said that pre-education system is being introduced in Anganwari centres soon to boost education in rural and far flung areas. Stressing upon the field workers to work with zeal and dedication, the Minister said that with the introduction of various new schemes in the department the role and responsibilities of field staff has increased manifold and hoped that they would come up to the expectations of the Government. Mula Ram said that a women hostel has almost been completed at Roopnagar, Jammu an estimated cost of Rs. 1.25 crore. This hostel will provide accommodation facilities to 120 workingwomen thus provide a great relief to them. Later, the Minister went round various stalls put up by training centers which include, Maa Centre for Education Research and Development, Talab Tillo Social Welfare Training Institute, New Plot and Institute of Women and Child Welfare Nitco Lane and appreciated the crafts and pre-school material besides, stuff toys etc arranged by these centres. A colourful cultural programme was also organized by the trainees on the occasion. The Deputy Director, ICDS, Jammu, Parshotam Sharma presented vote of thanks. The Deputy Director Schemes, Deputy Director Social Welfare and other district officers of the department were also present. |
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DYF holds rally, demands Degree College at R S Pura Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Jammu Kashmir Democratic Youth Federation held a rally in R S Pura which started from SKUAST-J and passed through various streets of R S Pura town and concluded at the office of Tehsildar R S Pura. At the concluding point of rally a public meeting was held under the chairmanship of Mr Kishore, State vice president of Democratic Youth Federation, who stated that opening up of a degree college at R S Pura was the need of the time as also a long standing demand of border area people. Mr Kishore said that Federation has been fighting since long for opening up of a degree college at R S Pura because there are a large number of students in the tehsil who don’t find any opportunity to get admission in Jammu colleges because of lack of space or accommodation. The DYF leader stated that if the Government failed to open up a degree college at R S Pura, the Democratic Youth Federation would be compelled to decide its future course of action. Others who spoke on the occasion included Messrs Juma Ram, S Mandev Singh, Com Bishan Dass, Jainwal Singh, Pawan Kumar, Ravi Kumar, Raju Satia, Devinder Kumar and Naresh Kumar. BJP leaders’ plea to Chairman District Development Board Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Oct 15: The Bharatiya Janata Party leaders of Rajouri district have urged the chairman District Development Board to take the prominent people of the district into confidence before holding of the Board meeting. The BJP district president Yougesh Sharma and Party leader Vivod Gupta expressed concern over the dilapidated condition of the various roads in the Rajouri Township. They said before the holding of meeting the development of the area be discussed with the people. They said the condition of Rajouri market is very bad and people are facing the environmental hazards after the blocking of the rain water. The Notified Area Committee (NAC) Rajouri is facing the shortage of funds to undertake the development of the town in hand, they alleged. The garbage dumps are lying everywhere and no attention is being paid by the Government and administration towards it and in keeping the town clean. The BJP leaders urged the authorities to pay immediate attention for renovation of Khura, Tanda road which has become a death trap due to its bad condition. Give benefit of SRO 43 to real victims: CPI (M) Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Communist Party of India (Marxist) Migrant Cell has demanded that the genuine victims of terrorism be given benefit under the employment package and SRO 43. In a statement issued here today, the president of the Cell Makhan Lal Bhat alleged that though the Government has claimed that it provided jobs to 30,000 people during last one year but many deserving people have been ignored in various parts of the state. Yogeshwar Maharaj appeals people
to participate Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: The forthcoming Ati Maha Vishnu Yagna has been pre-poned by one day. The Yagna, which was scheduled to be started from October 27 now begin from October 26 and will culminate on November 6. This was announced by Sant Shri Yogeshwar Balak Maharaj of Badrinath Dham, who is force behind this historical Yagna. Addressing a press conference, Balak Yogeshwar Maharaj said that main aim of the Yagna was to bring peace in the state in particular and country in general. He said that this Yagna is being performed for the welfare of the humanity as a whole. Balak Yogeshwar Maharaj of Badrinath Dham, who belongs to Sandoor village of Pouni area Reasi tehsil, called upon the people of Jammu to participate in large number in the Yagna as these types of Yagna are rare occasion and people of Jammu must take benefit of this auspicious occasion. Appreciating people of Jammu for donation generously for the Yagna, Yogeshwar Maharaj sought cooperation of sections of the society irrespective of their caste, creed, colour or religion. "This Yagna is for every one", he said and advised the people to take Parikrama of the holy Yagyashalla and participate in the Puran Ahuti. He said that aim of the Yagna is for the universal peace, for India and with particular reference to Jammu and Kashmir which is witnessing terrorism over a decade now. He predicted that after the culmination of Yagna there would be some visible results of purification. "In this Yagna chanting of religious hymns, recitation of Mantras during the Yagna would be to pay obeisance to God and to invoke his blessing aimed at universal peace with particular reference to J&K". Yogeshwar Maharaj replying to a question said that this land is his birth place so he has emotional attachment with this Dev-Bhumi. He expressed his gratitude towards people of Jammu region for showing love and affection to him. Balak Yogeshwar Maharaj, who visited his native place of village Sandoor of Pouni for taking Diksha from his mother, said that it was very emotional moment. "It was all due to the affection of people that even I could not control my emotion", he said. Release salary of Anganwari workers: LPEF to Govt Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Mr Fazal Ahmed Khan, tehsil president Class IV Union, Surankote of Low Paid Employees Federation has stated that Anganwari workers and helpers of Social Welfare Department working in Surankote tehsil have not received their salary for the past nine months. Mr Khan has urged the Director Social Welfare and other functionaries of the Department to pay salary immediately as the workers were already reeling under acute economic hardships. Similarly Baldev Raj, provincial president Class IV Union Jammu has stated that in number of tehsils of Jammu province, the Village Guards (Chowkidars) have not been paid their monthly remuneration for the last several months like in Billawar tehsil despite the matter having been brought to the notice of Divisional Commissioner Jammu nothing has come out. He has also urged on the Deputy Commissioners of Jammu province to release the monthly remunerations in their favour at an earliest. Besides he has also urged the Government to enhance the monthly pay perks of village guards and their regularisation against Class IV posts in Panchayats recently created by the Government, as this section of employees is already facing severe financial hardships. Acctt employees highlight various burning demands Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Office bearers of J&K Accounts Employees Association held a meeting under the chairmanship of Mr J S Charak to take stock of the situation arising out of the injustice and wrong doing meted out to sub-ordinate staff. Members shouted that the fractured and lame-duck transfer policy has been imposed on sub-ordinate staff only and officers of the Department have been kept out of the purview of this policy. They said authorities in Jammu have failed to convince the association regarding creation of categories and their basis and regarding other anomalies and rather authorities were convinced that the said policy contained many flaws which needed to be corrected. Members expressed their dismay over non-shifting of Director Accounts and Treasuries Jammu, various Treasury officers and other senior officers of Jammu province who have been sitting at one place for more than five years or so. They alleged that these officers have made the Department a den of corruption. They maintained that without shifting this chain of officers, mal-practices cannot be checked in the Department. Association urged the Finance Minister to transfer these officers immediately so that financial discipline could be maintained and also concede the demands already agreed upon by him in the month of June this year. The cadre unanimously criticized the proposal of the Government of granting super time scale to the present two senior most Directors and also granting promotion to Director Accounts and Treasuries as Director General which is of no avail to the Department. They stressed on posting of an IAS officer as Director Accounts and Treasuries to streamline the functioning of the Finance Department and stressed on immediate shifting of present Director Accounts and Treasuries. Kashmiri Pandits protest outside CM’s residence SRINAGAR, Oct 15: Kashmiri Pandits residing in the Valley today staged a protest demonstration outside Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s residence here and threatened to migrate if their demands were not met within three days. If the State Government does not meet our demands within three days, we will be forced to take the extreme step of migration from the Valley as enough time has been given to the administration to look into our demands, spokesman of Hindu Welfare Society, a Kashmiri Pandit organisation, C L Bhat told reporters here. "In the aftermath of Nadimarg massacre, we had deliberation with high level officials, including ministers of the Government and put forth some genuine demands of the community," Bhat said On one hand the Government is talking about bringing back those Kashmiri Pandits who have migrated but on the other they are not able to redress the problems of a handful who have stayed back in the Valley through thick and thin, he said. Among the list of demands were employment package for the youth of Pandit community, clusterisation of the community and treating displaced members of the community within the Valley at par with the migrants, Bhat said. (PTI) Bail application of rape accused rejected Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 15: Sessions Judge Kathua has rejected the bail plea of one Parshotam Kumar of Chann Mathurian in Hiranagar for his alleged involvement in rape case. The accused was arrested by Hiranagar police vide FIR No. 150/ 2003, under section 376/ 323 RPC August 16. The incident also took place on the same day and police swung into action immediately. The court observed that incident is of serious nature and the victim is minor. For several other reasons mentioned by the council of the victim, no good ground for admitting the applicant—accused is made out. The prayer is therefore, rejected and the application is dismissed, the judge observed. According to FIR, the accused—Parshotam intercepted the prosecutrix — minor girl Bholi (13), when she was returning to her residence on foot on August 16. It was seven in the evening, he took to girl to the nearby bushes and committed rape on her. After the matter was reported to police, the accused was nabbed after some time. The council of accused filed bail application on the plea that Parshotam was being falsely implicated. Awareness camp against deadly devices held in Rajouri Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Oct 15: The Youth Welfare Association has started an awareness campaign in Rajouri township against the deadly devices like bombs, RDX, IED, timer etc which are being planted by terrorists to create death and destruction. In this connection a demonstration was given in the town today inwhich besides the army, Civil and police officers, the prominent citizens, youth and members of the business community participated. Those who attended the camp include Station Commander, Brig. V B Nair, DIG Rajouri, Poonch Range S N Issai, Deputy Commissioner, M K Dividi and SSP S A Mujtaba. Sub. J P Tiwari gave a demonstration on the deadly devices by displaying their duplicates before the public. He gave a lecture that how the accident can be averted in case a deadly device is seen lying any where. In his speech Brig. Nair said people should be duty bound to inform police or army while finding any such type of device anywhere. He said we should be utmost vigilant and not give any chance to enemy to catch us unaware. He assured full cooperation by army like before in redressing their grievances and maintenance of peace and tranquillity. Mr Issai said innocent people are killed in the blasts and it has been observed that some vested elements instead of coming to the rescue of people on such occasions try to emerge as leaders by creating hurdles in the way of police and security forces. He said instead of creating hurdles in the way of security forces in case of any such eventuality they should come forward and help. He said the people should be vigilant against such devices and never touch while finding any thing lying anywhere. The recent killings could have been averted in the town had the people not touched the VCR or Radio set which were lying in the roadside. Mr Dividi urged the participants to make the school children, their home people and other colleagues also aware about the safety norms so that such unfortunate incidents are averted in future. Todays demonstration camp was organized by Rajesh Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Mushtaq Dar, Babloo Sharma and Shafqat Wani. Dogri Sangarsh Morcha to intensify agitation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: In its executive meeting held at Dogri Bhawan, Dogri Sangarsh Morcha decided to hold public meetings at district and tehsil headquarters in October and November to carry forward the on-going struggle for Dogri’s inclusion in the 8th scheduled to the grass root level. In the first phase the meetings will be held at Udhampur, Kathua, Samba, Akhnoor, Bishnah, Billawar, Basoli, Hiranagar, Ramnagar and Reasi. Morcha has also written letters to the Prime Minister and Home Minister urging them to present official bill for inclusion of Dogri in the 8th schedule during the ensuing session of Parliament. The Morcha appreciated leader of opposition, Sonia Gandhi for writting a letter to Prime Minister for inclusion of Dogri in 8th schedule. Morcha also appreciated all other political and social organisations for supporting the cause of Dogri. Morcha called upon various organisation and individuals to send telegrams and letters to the Union Home Minister asking him to place official bill in the coming session of Parliament in this regard. Prof Nilamberdev Sharma presided over the meeting and Dhian Singh, Dhanraj Bargotra Jugal Mahajan, Dr Gian Singh and Hari Chand Jalmeria expressed their views. |
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