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| Evalue multi-dimensional approach to combat terrorism: Sinha Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: The Governor, Lt. Gen.(Retd.) S.K.Sinha, PVSM has emphasized the need for evolving a multi-dimensional approach to combat the natural.....more 2 killed,
10 injured Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Two persons were killed and 10 others received severe injuries in separate road accidents while as a girl allegedly consumed.....more 48
advocates appointed Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: The State Government has appointed 48 advocates as standing councils in various departments in Kashmir Division for subordinate courts.......more JD Fire
Services directs Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: A meeting of Command and Sub-Command officers was held under the supervision of Mr R S Sodhi, Joint Director Fire Services Jammu Range regarding......more Three-day
UGC Golden Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Jammu University is all set to host prestigious three-day UGC Golden Jubilee National Seminar from October 20 and preparations have been finalised in this connection........more |
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Use air
power to tackle Pak Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Former Vice Air Chief, Air Marshal Vinod Patney today stressed the need for giving more importance to air power instead of adopting means of conventional warfare. Air Marshal (Retd) Patney was of the view that air power should be utilised in Jammu and Kashmir for tackling Pakistan sponsored terrorism.......more Mother
Teresa celebrations Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: The Catholic Church is officially declaring "Mother Teresa Blessed" on Sunday (Oct 19) which is also observed as Mission Sunday all over the world........more DSS takes
out rally against Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Dogra Sadar Sabha today took out a protest rally against the delay on the part of Central Government for inclusion of Dogri language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution........more 3 gamblers
arrested Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Bishnah Police today arrested three gamblers and recovered thousands of rupees from their possession......more |
Evalue multi-dimensional approach to Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: The Governor, Lt. Gen.(Retd.) S.K.Sinha, PVSM has emphasized the need for evolving a multi-dimensional approach to combat the natural and man made disasters like terrorism. He said, it is imperative that we should devote ourselves towards the cause of mitigating the sufferings of the people. The Governor was addressing the State Management Committee meeting of Indian Red Cross Society here today. Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Health Minister, Ch. Lal Singh, Chief Secretary, Dr. S. S. Bloeria, Additional Director General of Police, Mr. Masood Choudhary and Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir provinces also attended the meeting. The Governor who is also the President of the State Branch of Indian Red Cross Society, while highlighting the role of Red Cross Society J&K State Branch said that the society has remained fairly active over the last 15 years of turmoil in the State in providing relief measures to the victims of terrorism and Pak proxy war sponsored proxy war. Lauding the role of army, para-military forces and J&K Police, the Government said that our forces have appreciated the problems of the needy people in real sense and have helped the people of border areas with their, trained man power during emergency. Speaking on the occasion the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said that Red Cross Society has to play a significant role in J&K State. He said a large section of our people is in distress. He said that compassionate and caring organizations like Red Cross Society and other NGOs have to come to the help of the people suffering from day to day causalities of terrorism. The Chief Minister said that the Red Cross Society has to play a greater role in giving comfort and relief to the victims of natural disasters and also to the victims of shelling and firing from across the border. The Chief Minister said that for the mobilization of the funds, the approach of the society should be vibrant and dynamic and the management of the society should develop contacts with the national and international institutions. During the discussions, Health Minister, Mr. Lal Singh said that the Red Cross Society has to reorganize its efforts to come up to the expectations of the people. He said, greater efforts are required to make the people aware of the potential disasters. He said the magnitude of problems in the State is so high and the Red Cross Society have to utilize its all resources in a proper manner. The Minister said that the Health Department is always ready to extend necessary help to the society. While giving the resume of the activities of Red Cross Society, the Honorary General Secretary, Qazi Mohammad Amin said that variant topography of J&K State and the multi dimensional disasters need greater efforts and much resources to redress the problems of the people. He said, the State Red Cross Society has taken various steps to mobilize its resources. During current year, the society got an amount of about Rs.4.56 lacs from the sale of the tickets in Jammu region. While in Kashmir division, the amount was to the tune of Rs.4.30 lacs. He said, we are trying to improve further the functioning of the society to enabe it to wipe tears of suffering humanity without any discrimination in this trouble torn state. |
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2 killed, 10 injured in road accidents Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Two persons were killed and 10 others received severe injuries in separate road accidents while as a girl allegedly consumed poisonous substance at her residence. Police spokesman said that Dr G L Koul was killed after he fell down from his scooter near Army School Barnai. He was rushed to Government Medical College Hospital in critical condition where he succumbed to his injuries. Police has registered a case in this connection. In another road accident, one person was killed and five others received injuries in collision between truck bearing registration number JK03-0101 and Tata Sumo bearing number JK01D-8300 near Ramsoo Bridge under the jurisdiction of Banihal Police Station. After colliding with each other both the vehicles rolled down into nullah. On the receipt of information, a police party rushed to the spot and started rescue operation. All were rushed to hospital where one of them was declared brought dead. The deceased has been identrified as Ghulan Nabi Dar of Uranhal in Kulgam. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. In yet another accident, three school going children and a scooterist were injured when their two-wheeler was knocked down by a speeding car at Nai Basti under the jurisdiction of Gandhi Nagar Police Station. They have been identified as Pardeep Singh, Palvi and Pankaj, all the children of Ram Singh of Beli Charana and Vijay Kumar, son of Beli Ram. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. Police has registered a case in this connection and hunt was on to nab the absconding Maruti car driver. Meanwhile, a girl—Sheetal Kour, daughter of Inder Singh of Kunjwani 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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48 advocates appointed as standing councils Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: The State Government has appointed 48 advocates as standing councils in various departments in Kashmir Division for subordinate courts. The newly appointed standing councils are Bashir Ahmed in PHE Department, Zibair Ahmed PWD, Ms Romana Siddiqui, Sports and Youth Services, Ms Shazia, Animal Husbandry, Sowkat H Naqashband, PDC, Tahir Majid, Rural Development, Shafiq Dar, Director Funds, Mehraj-ud-Din Bhat, Forest Department, Aga Humayu, Pollution Control Board, Ishtiaq A Khan, Health and Medical Education Department, M A Chasshu, Director Local Bodies, Ms Rubina, Social Welfare Department, Ms Nuzhat Koul, Stores and Procurement Department, Irshad Ahmed Parrey, Fisheries Department, Nazir Ahmed Malik, Estates Department, Bashir Ahmed Bhat, F C & Irrigation, A R Mir, Sheep Husbandry, Ms Safina Baig, Education and Ghulam Hassan Dar, Cooperatives. Mufti Ishtiyaq has been appointed in Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Hilal Akbar Lone in Motor Vehicles Department, Irfan A Khan, Tourism Department, Ms Rehana, Gardens & Parks, Nazir Ahmed Baba , PDD, Ms Fatah Iqbal, Salex Tax, Abdul Majid Bhat, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, Malik Mukhtiar Ahmed, Sales Tax Tribunal, Ms Sayeed Bilquees, Police Headquarters, Miss Asfa Jan, Agro Industries, Ali Mohammed Dar, Directorate of Industries, Vikar Zadian, Excise Department and Zahoor Ahmed Qureshi, Horticulture. Tauseef Joo has been appointed in UEE Department, Miss Ulfina Tak, Stationery and Printing Department, Mumtaz Kapra, General Administration Department, R A Khan, State Financial Corporation, Ms Sofia Mudassir, Competent Authority E E, Ms Shabnam Munshi Agriculture Department, Ms Asfa Ali Padroo, Housing and Urban Development Department, Javed Reshi, Revenue Department, Azhar -ul-Amin Service Selection Board, Najib Fazili, Custodian General, Custodian Department, Ms Nighat Ara, Women Development Corporation, Muzaffar Kirmani, SIDCO, Humera Bashir, District Industries Office, Srinagar, Javed Ahmed J&K PCC, Alu-ud-Dn Ganai, State Forest Corporation and Abdul Manan Shah, Government Medical College, Srinagar. |
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JD Fire Services directs staff to be alert on Diwali Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: A meeting of Command and Sub-Command officers was held under the supervision of Mr R S Sodhi, Joint Director Fire Services Jammu Range regarding fire prevention/protection arrangements during Diwali festival on October 25. The Joint Director directed his officers to remain vigilant and alert to deal with eventuality in case of any mishap and asked the people to remain extra vigilant while burning crackers. During the meeting measures to be adopted during festival were discussed in detail. Command and Sub Command officers were asked to lay stress on the precautions needed to be taken care of while stacking and burning crackers to avoid mishaps which can result into big catastrophe. Joint Director Fire Services also desired the public cooperation to ensure safety of respected citizens. |
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Three-day UGC Golden Jubilee
Seminar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Jammu University is all set to host prestigious three-day UGC Golden Jubilee National Seminar from October 20 and preparations have been finalised in this connection. This was stated by Dean Academic Affairs Prof O P Sharma while talking to media persons on the Campus, here today. He disclosed that Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Muzaffar Hussain Beig will inaugurate the seminar while Minister of Education Harshdev Singh will be chief guest at the valedictory function on October 22. ‘Governance of Higher Education’ is topic of the seminar which will comprise of total nine sessions, including seven technical sessions, Prof Sharma divulged. Experts from within and outside the State, senior Professors of the University, prominent citizens, College Principals and student representatives are attending the seminar and presenting their papers while UGC Vice-Chairman Prof V N Rajasekharan Pillai will deliver the inaugural address, he added. All the papers presented in the seminar and its final report will be sent to the UGC for inclusion in the UGC Golden Jubilee volume on higher education, Prof Sharma further said while highlighting the importance of the seminar. Senior Professor and member of the co-ordinating committee, supervising preparations of the seminar, Prof A N Sadhu listed the issues which will be discussed in the seminar. "‘Challenges to higher education’, ‘Autonomy and accountability’, ‘Governance in higher education’ and ‘Quality education and standard’ are the issues which will be discussed thoroughly in the seminar," he said Prof Sadhu further disclosed that Jammu University was among twelve varsities in the country which have been selected for hosting the prestigious UGC seminars in connection with Golden Jubilee celebrations. Former Head of Mathematics Department Prof R K Singh, who was also present in the press conference, hoped that the UGC seminar would help largely to Jammu University, particularly its research scholars. Associate Dean and Director External Relation Dr Pritam Singh was also present in the press conference. |
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Use air power to tackle Pak
sponsored proxy Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Former Vice Air Chief, Air Marshal Vinod Patney today stressed the need for giving more importance to air power instead of adopting means of conventional warfare. Air Marshal (Retd) Patney was of the view that air power should be utilised in Jammu and Kashmir for tackling Pakistan sponsored terrorism. Delivering a public lecturer on ‘Air Power— India’s Defence’ organised by the Centre for Strategic and Regional Studies University of Jammu, the former Air Vice Marshal, who has served as AOC in Jammu and Kashmir during Kargil Operation, said that nature of warfare and technology have been increasing very fast so new strategies should be adopted to face the new challenges. Mr Patney said that in the present situation importance of air-power has increased and it has become vital component to protect national integration and nation interest. "Strategies of the conventional war-fare have also changed and in the changed circumstances it is air power which can play important role in case of power", he said, adding, "air power has ability to change capacity of any force". Pointing towards recent American attack on Afghanistan and Iraq, he said that United States of America (USA) effectively utilised air power during these attacks and easily won the battle despite hostile topography. Vice Air-Chief was of the view that Americans got maximum casualties during Vietnam war because neither air-power was effectively utilised nor there was strategic coordination. Air Marshal Patney, who was A.O.C in Jammu and Kashmir during Operation Vijay which was launched to flush out Pakistani intruders from the hills of Kargil, said that it was his personnel view that air power was not effectively utilised during that operation. "Number of casualties could have been minimised if air power was effectively utilised during Operation Vijay", he argued. "Casualties in Kargil Operation and during border build up were very high", he regretted, Recalling India’s war with China in 1962, former Air Marshal said that forces received defeat as air-power was not effectively utilised at that time. Stressing the need for modernising and strengthening air-power, Mr Patney said that among the three wings of armed forces, it is Air-Force which is always prepared to face any challenge at any time. While suggesting to utilise air-power in tackling terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Patney especially mentioned flushing out operation at Ali Jan commercial complex near residence of Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed where two terrorists were holed up. "By using air-power commandos should be air-dropped to minimise casualties and bring effectiveness in the operation", he suggested. Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Prof Amitabh Mattoo chaired the session. |
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Mother Teresa celebrations
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: The Catholic Church is officially declaring "Mother Teresa Blessed" on Sunday (Oct 19) which is also observed as Mission Sunday all over the world. Fr Dr Elias Rodrigue disclosed that three stages in the official process of recognising someone as a saint in the Catholic Church namely to consider a deceased holy person " a servant of God". The miracle reported through the intercession of such a person are thoroughly examined and verified by competent authorities before such a declaration is made. He said this event is of great significance because Mother Teresa loved the poorest of the poor. She became citizen of India through her motherly concern for the destitute. She showed us the noblest character of motherland, reaching out to all the needy people, irrespective of caste, creed or nationality. Thus, she fostered real spirit of brotherhood, which our country needs much. Fr Elias stressed the fact that the spirit of selfless-service of Mother Teresa lives on in the Church through all the Charitable institutions in general and in particular through the ministry of " Missionaries of Charity" an institution that Mother Teresa herself founded and guided. Sr Alice (PVBM) disclosed that variety programs are being organised in the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar and in the 147 other Dioceses of India as well as in the many countries of the world. |
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DSS takes out rally against
inordinate delay Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Dogra Sadar Sabha today took out a protest rally against the delay on the part of Central Government for inclusion of Dogri language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. Amidst shouting of slogans in favour of Dogri language’s inclusion in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution and against the discriminatory attitude of the Central Government, the rally started from Dogra Sadar Sabha and after passing through main bazars of the old city culminated in front of Divisional Commissioner’s Office at Mubarak Mandi where protest demonstration was held. Addressing the demonstration, president of Dogra Sadar Sabha Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak, Congress MLC Pardhuman Singh and other senior leaders of Congress and Dogra Sadar Sabha said that time and again Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave assurances about the inclusion of Dogri in the Constitution’s 8th Schedule but the assurances have not been translated into reality so far. "The way the Prime Minister tried to remain mum on the issue during civic reception at Jammu before being pressurized to say some words it seems that Central Government continued to be ignorant towards this demand", they said and added that this time Central Government has to bring the bill in the coming Parliament session and get the same passed because leaders of all local parties have extended their support for the same. They further said that more than one crore people of Northern region including from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) and West Pakistan have been speaking this language as such it should be immediately included in 8th Schedule as further delay could create some unexpected scene. "We will continue to carry on relentless struggle to bring the demand to its logical end at all costs", he said and added that entire opposition at Centre was in favour of granting due status to Dogri. Later, a memorandum was submitted to Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee through Divisional Commissioner Jammu. Through the memorandum, the Dogra Sadar Sabha leaders also urged the Government to see that Dogra Domicile certificates be issued by respective Tehsildars without any delay as many people have alleged inordinate delay in this regard. |
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3 gamblers arrested by Bishnah Police Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Bishnah Police today arrested three gamblers and recovered thousands of rupees from their possession. Police spokesman said that on the receipt of information about the gambling, a police team of Bishnah Police led by SHO (DySP Probationer) Manjeet Kour swung into action and raided village Hansa Dabbar. Three gamblers were immediately taken into custody while another managed to escape from the area alongwith some money. The arrested gamblers have been identified as Bal Krishan, Sukh Sagar and Waryam Singh. All have been booked under Gambling Act. A hunt was also on to nab the absconding gambler. |
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Chaman warns Pak against perpetrating terrorism Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Union Minister of State for Defence, Prof Chaman Lal Gupta has cautioned Pakistan that cross border terrorism is a dangerous game plan and India cannot be cowed down by such tactics. Addressing a public meeting at Mantalai, Prof Gupta said that terrorism is a big menace but its perpetrators would not achieve anything out of it expect causing suffering and miseries to the mankind. He said that proxy war launched by Pakistan through exporting terrorism in State would meet the same fate as Pakistan had to face humiliation in the earlier four invasions of this State. India is strong enough to defend its frontiers against any challenge, he added and said that Jammu and Kashmir is an irrecovable part of India. Prof Gupta said that to defend Jammu and Kashmir as part of the country, India has made tremendous sacrifices through blood and money both. The internal revenue of the State is just Rs 1200 crore whereas the salaries of the State staff cost about Rs 3500 crore. In addition to this over Rs 3000 crores are being provided by the Centre every year for developmental activities, inspite of the various fiscal problems in other parts of the country. Prof Gupta regretted that this hard earned money of poor Indian is not being properly utilised by the State Government and despite huge spending the people of many areas are still faced with lack of basic necessities of the like that of drinking water, road, communication, electricity, medicine etc. The Union Minister appreciated the good work being done by the Village Defence Committees and the valour demonstrated by many of the Sahayak Police Officers (SPOs) and said that efforts were on to get enhanced the emoluments of the SPOs and strengthening of VDCs. The meeting was also addressed by Shiv Charan Gupta, ex-MLA, Chajju Ram, Haju Ayub, Krishan Lal, Geeta Manhas and others. |
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Mufti’s house in
news Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: It was yet another evening with a difference at the official residence of Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed at M. A. Road here today. And that too just a few hours after the killing of two holed up terrorists in Dr. Ali Jan Shopping Complex that created media sensation through out the country for what they called attack on CM’s House. But the environment in and around Chief Minister’s House was not that panicky as people across the country might have imagined in the wake of ‘fidayeen attack’. Significantly, the occasion was a ‘reception’ hosted by Mufti Sayeed to nearly 100 children of militancy victims drawn from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been adopted by the army and studying in Army Public School at Beas. The occasion became more important with gracious presence of former Prime Minister Mr. V. P. Singh, who ignoring the yesterday’s sensational militants’ act on M. A. Road, descended on the valley as per his scheduled tour. Mufti Sayeed, Mr. V. P. Singh and his wife interacted with the unfortunate children who have now got a new vision for a future. They enquired from them about their stay at Beas as well as the studies. Though they have been admitted at the Army Public School only about a month and half ago yet the level of confidence acquired by them speak about a promising future they are looking ahead. Most of them are from far-flung areas like Drass, Kupwara, Machil and Tangdar. Mufti Sayeed himself served tea and snacks to his ‘little guests’ and spent about an hour with them. The children too had a nice evening and lot of fun as they played in the lawn. They also apprised him about Pahalgam, Gulmarg and other tourist spots they have visited yesterday and today. The Chief Minister during his visit to Beas School last month had invited them for a holiday in Kashmir and now they are in the serene valley. The children were also enthusiastic as they are visiting their homes for a couple of days on vacation before returning to Beas. They are keen to share their experiences at the school with their relations and friends back home. They had all praise for the army authorities and said they had never even dreamt of studying in such a reputed school. Altaf Hussain from Chowkibal, Kupwara, a 5th class student said that ‘I am sure of my bright future given the facilities being provided by the army for his studies, board and lodge, and that too all free of cost. Similar were the views of Javed Ahmed Shah from Drugmulla, Kupwara, now studying in 7th class and Shahbaz Ahmed from Drass, student of 6th class. Jigmat, a little girl from a remote village in Leh, studying in 5th, was bulging with confidence and told his host that she would put in hard labour and bring laurels to the State as she has got a lifetime opportunity for it. Mr. V. P. Singh and other dignitaries also had a detailed interaction with the children and some of the teachers accompanying them. Later, talking to the media persons, Corps Commander, 15 Corps, Lt. Gen. Nirbhay Sharma said that the children have been adopted under a pilot project to provide them greater opportunities. He said several such schemes have been planned for the State children to ensure a better future for them. He said their entire expenditure would be borne by the army up to 12th class and they would be also helped in placement and rehabilitation. Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Mangat Ram Sharma, Finance Minister Mr. Muzaffar Husain Baig, PDP chief Ms. Mehbooba Mufti, DGP Mr. Gopal Sharma, were among the distinguished personalities present on the occasion and interacted with the children. |
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Union Rural
Development Minister announces Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 18: Announcing a special package of Rs. 81 crores under Rural Development sector for J&K, the Union Minister for Rural Development, Mr. Kashi Ram Rana said that this would be over and above normal allocation of Rs. 183 crores of the current fiscal year. The package is aimed at economic upliftment of poor rural masses particularly those living below poverty line. Addressing media persons here today after wrapping up his two day visit to the valley, the Minister said that against a kitty of Rs. 175.38 crore, an amount of Rs. 132 Crores has been utilized in the State on varied schemes like SGSY,SGRY, IAY and PMGSY. A landmark achievement under Swaran Gram Rozgar Yogna has been registered by 100 percent fund utilization. Similarly, under SGSY 95 percent achievement has been recorded. Both the schemes have been formulated with an idea of banishing poverty of rural masses by involving them in taking up self employment oriented ventures. Mr Kashi Ram expressed happiness over the implementation of Rural Development schemes in the State with great enthusiasm and zeal adding that in the Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting in Srinagar, the other day it was desired that it would be more appreciable if the implementation process of various Rural Development is accelerated more so as to yield far better results. He said that although the performance of SGRY, SGSY and IAY which have been tailored to make dent in the unemployment of rural masses besides providing shelter to the houseless has been found up to the scratch, yet there was ample scope to improve upon the performance of PMGSY and Rural drinking water supply schemes. He suggested to set up vigilance monitoring committee headed by local Member of Parliament for effective implementation as is prevalent in other States. The Minister for Rural Development, Peerzada Mohammad Syed who also was present thanked the Union Minister for announcing a Special Package for the State and assured him of making judicious use of the funds allocated under different rural development schemes. He said that the Rural Development Department is proposing to set up training institutes at both at regional and district levels as also constructing 2700 panchayats Ghars in the State. Present among others were Union Minister of State for Rural Development, U.V. Krishnan Rajiv and Minister for PHE, Qazi Mohammad Afzal, Secretary Rural Development Deptt, Bashrat Dhar. The Union Minister said that there is no dearth of funds for the State under rural development sector and emphasised for sending more projects to his ministry for assistance that would be forthcoming. Mufti Sayeed said that the coalition Government has embarked upon a massive rural infrastructure development effort with involvement of the people for socio-economic transformation at the grass roots level. He said the rural development sector has large potential for providing livelihood and instant development gains and appreciated the centre for providing liberal funds for the purpose. He said the performance of rural development sector has been appreciable in the State and effort is on to give it further momentum. The Chief Minister said that keeping in view the unemployment problem confronting the State, rural development has become more vital for generating employment in the rural areas. He said monitoring mechanism has been strengthened for best possible implementation of rural development schemes and maximising benefits thereof to a large section of the populace. |
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Border migrants call off dharna Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Border migrants consisting of 90 villages of Chhamb Sector today called off their dharna till November 21 on the assurance of Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) chief, Prof Bhim Singh. These migrants who were on dharna for a long time were demanding relief, compensation for land and relief for fodder etc. Prof. Singh who visited Khour today was accompanied by Party state president Sardar Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, vice president, Kuljit Singh Jamwal, Faqir Nath, MLA, Miss Anita Thakur , Rajinder Jamwal, Ghulam Ali, Kuldeep Singh, Pankaj Sharma and others. On their arrival the JKNPP leaders were accorded a warm reception by the border migrants. Addressing the gathering Prof Singh assured them full support on behalf of his Party . He said his Party was struggling hard for their cause and it will continue struggle till all their genuine demands are met. The JKNPP chief appealed the border migrants to call off their protest dharna till November 21. He, while praising the border people for their work said that JKNPP is committed to fight for the brave soldiers of the soil. He said the border migrants’ demands will be fulfilled shortly and urged the State Government to provide relief to them without any further delay and implement the directives of Supreme Court in letter and spirit in this regard. |
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JAM provides relief to victims of terrorism Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Jammu Adhikar Morcha, in its continued programme of social and national service, held a function to provide regular relief to victims of terrorism and assistance in the marriage of two displaced migrant girls. Speaking on the occasion Morcha chairman Ravi Sethi said JAM was constituted with only purpose of public and national service in mind and since its inception it has provided regular relief in form of ration, sewing machines, monthly pension etc to most needy and families of victims of terrorism despite its limited resources. Besides setting up of a hand pump at Camp Belicharana Morcha has also raised a bathroom for ladies. On the occasion Mr Sethi provided assistance in the marriage of two more migrant girls- Miss Madhu, daughter of Bhagat Ram of Poonch and Miss Dimple Kumari daughter of Bodh Raj of village Massri (Doda). Mr Sethi said father of Dimple Mr Bodh Raj, who was not present due to security reasons is a true patriot who has provided valuable assistance to security forces in fighting terrorists in Doda district as a result of which his family had to flee from Doda. On the occasion ration and other items were also provided to needy families. |
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10,000 patients benefited in Basohli Health Mela Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 18: Over ten thousand people from Basohli, Bani, Billawar tehsils and adjoining Punjab and Himachal areas were benefited with three-day Parivar Kalyan Health Mela which concluded at Basohli today. The mela was organised by the Directorate of Family Welfare and RCH Project of the State Health department. Specialist doctors from various hospitals of Jammu and Kathua participated in this grand mela and rendered their services. It was one of the largest and a unique mela for providing super-speciality treatment to the people. The teams of doctors examined over 10,000 patients including a large number of children and women. Lady Gynaecologists were pressed into service of the rural women who are often shy of talking freely to the male doctors. About three minor and major operations were performed in three days by the doctors. A senior Medical officer disclosed that 139 Family Welfare Operations were also performed with new technique. 115 Leproscopic operations were also performed on different patients. Sixteen patients suffering from piles were also operated upon in this camp. The Eye-specialists performed about 120 cataract operations in last three days. Besides this, about 560 persons were provided ultra sound facility with the new unit installed recently. It was inaugurated on first day of the Mela by Minister for Health and Medical Education Ch Lal Singh. The locals and specially the Sarpanchs and Panchs of various Halqas have highly appreciated the conduct of such Health Mela in the area. The spokesman said that the main aim was to create awareness among the people regarding routine check up, provide treatment at doorsteps to the needy and poor and also educate the people through exhibition about various diseases and programmes of the Health and Family Welfare department. J&K AIDS Control Society, Distt Leprosy wing, Homeopathy, Field Publicity department, TB Association, ICDS Project of Social Welfare Deptt and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan also participated in the Exhibition and educated the visitors to the Health Mela. |
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BJP opposed to recruitment
policy of Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Spokesman of the Pradesh BJP Prof Hari Om did not share Finance Minister Muzzaffar Hussain Baig’s view that all appointments would be made "purely on merit" and that `there have been no complaints of any discrepancies’ in appointments made during the tenure of present Government. He has said that no Minister in Mufti Government can befool the people any more by making such false statements and opined that nature of Congress-Panthers Party-PDP coalition Government was similar to the one Dr Farooq Abdullah provided during his tenure. Prof Hari Om said BJP has been left with no other option but to demand a reversal of existing Valley-centric recruitment policy as only a radical change in the existing policy could enable the unemployed and suffering youth of Jammu and Ladakh regions to obtain their due share in the crucial service sector. BJP spokesman said what has shocked Jammuites and most is that Education Minister belonging to pro-Jammu Panthers Party was following the dictates of his Kashmiri Masters and exploiting the Prime Minister’s employment package to accommodate Kashmiris alone in his Nation Building Education Department. he said BJP has expressed regrets all the more because Education Minister was not showing any regard to the pressing needs and aspirations of unemployed youth of the region to which, he claims, belongs to. Prof Hari Om has asked education Minister to explain the circumstances and criteria under which his Chief Minister distributed on October 13 as many as 1,05 appointment orders among Kashmiris in a public assembly at Srinagar in his very presence under PM’s employment package. Party spokesman also referred to glaring disparities between the claim of Finance Minister and stark realities and urged him to disclose those compelling reasons which made him not to appoint even a single law graduate from Jammu region while issuing appointment letters to 48 law graduates hailing from Valley. Prof Hari Om has strongly urged the State Government to abandon the existing recruitment policy which, he said, was anti-Jammu and anti-Ladakh by any standard and made a fervent appeal to Jammuites to fight unitedly against the discriminatory policies and for their rights. |
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Govt snatching livelihood of PDD
staff by privatising Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: Government has resorted to snatching the livelihood of the Power Development Department (PDD) employees by privatising power bill system. This was stated by president of Provincial Power Employees Union (PPEU) Shakti Gupta while addressing a press conference here today. "The tender for printing and distribution of power bill has been allotted to an influential contractor in clandestine manner by the Department vide order number CEJ/TS-II of 2003 dated October 3", he said. "The step to privatise the power bill system is initiated despite being aware of the fact that enough number of computers have already been purchased for the purpose and even staff has been deployed to execute the job", he disclosed and said that this step has made it clear that Government has started hammering PDD staff and snatching their livelihood to appease some persons. The fate of Cooperative Society at Vijaypur, Kalakote Thermal Power House, which was purchased by divorcing the operation of Miran Sahib Power House, and Baglihar Hydel Power Project are enough indications that such steps would never yield any fruitful result and instead put additional burden on the State exchequer, Mr Gupta said. "We are opposed to the first leg of privatisation of the department by inviting private agency for the purpose of computerisation and distribution of power bills to the consumers", he made it clear and said that on one side coalition Government has got a case against former Chief Secretary registered on the issue of Canal Power House, which was allotted to private agency, and on other side it has started toeing the lines of previous regime by privatising the department. For what purpose, he asked, the computers were purchased if the power bill system was to be privatised by the Government. He also launched scathing attack on Government for withholding the wages of the daily wagers for the last over 10 months without any reason. "It was the Government which through its communication number AS/PS/PDD-232/99 of August 12, 1999 had made it clear that all the daily wagers even post 1994 appointed will be regularised after completion of seven years of services. But now the Government has changed its stand and started harassing the poor daily wagers", he said. Mr Gupta also demanded benefit of SRO-149 of 1973 in case of both ITI, Matriculates and non-Matriculates and SRO-59 and warned to start agitation if the demands were not conceded within a month. |
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977 plots allotted through draw of lots at Kathua Excelsior Correspondent Kathua, Oct 18: The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdul Majeed Wani today allotted plots by draw of lots in housing colony, Kathua. The colony has been developed by J&K Housing Board. The development of the colony over an area of 674 kanals of land comprising 977 plots of different sizes has been planned by the Housing Board in three phases. The J&K Housing Board has decided to develop only one sector for which draw of lots was conducted. In order to maintain transparency the plots have been allotted by draw of lots in terms of guidelines issued by the Government. Among others, the District Development Commissioner, Kathua, B. D. Sharma, SSP, K. L. Bhagat and senior officers of Housing Department were present on the occasion. Governor inaugurates symposium on livestock Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 18: The Governor, Lt. Gen. (Retd), S.K. Sinha has called upon agriculture scientists to evolve strategies for bringing improvement in livestock production and productivity enabling to meet the requir-ements of country’s teeming millions. Inaugurating a 3-day National Symposium on strategies for sustainable livestock development organized by SKUAST at Shuhama, the Governor emphasized on planned development of feed and fodder resources for sustaining up-graded livestock population and conservation of native breeds. Referring to the ban on sale of Shahtoosh and its fullout on the traditional craftsmen and women in Kashmir, he urged scientists to explore the possibilities of rearing the Tibetan Antelope as a farm animal so that its wool could be harvested the manner it is done in Pashmnina goats. Earlier, in his welcome address, vice-chancellor (SKUADR-K), Prof. Anwar Alam while giving a brief account of the status of livestock industry in the state,stressed the need for its sustainable development. He hoped that the scientists attending the conference will come out with concrete suggestions that would help the state’s policy makers to evolve strategies for meeting food and nutritional requirements of the growing population. The symposium was among others attended by Minister for Agriculture, A.A.Zargar, Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Yashpal Kundal and Principal Secretary Agriculture Production, B.R.Kundal. A galaxy of scientists from national institutes including ICAR, IVRI, CLRI and vice-chancellors of northern State Agriculture Universities. Mr Chris Zundee from PAL, presented a paper on Alpaca and Llamas, small camelid animals is being introduced in the State by 2005. JU VC pays homage to student martyrs Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: On the third and final day of the Martyrs Day observance, Shri Akhand Ramayan Path concluded this morning with Bhog and Havan Puja at the Shahidi Sthal near GGM Science College. Jammu University Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo also visited the Shahidi Sthal and paid tributes to student martyrs. He offered juice to JJSF activists who were observing fast for the last three days as a mark of respect to the martyrs. Speaking on the occasion, Prof Mattoo opined that students’ involvement in the politics and society were interlinked. However, he advised the students not to be an instrument to the political parties. The Vice-Chancellor assured that Jammu University will do its best to provide best infrastructure and facilities to the students so that the latter are not forced to sacrifice more for their genuine rights. The gathering was also addressed by JJSF president Pushvinder Singh and chairman Kuldeep Singh Chib. Mr Pushvinder demanded introduction of a chapter on the heroic story of sacrifice of student martyrs in the primary class books. Students from different colleges participated in the Hawan Puja and paid homage to the martyrs. Mehfil-e- Sufiyana Mouseeqi organized Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 18: Saying that violence has no place on the soil of Saints and Rishis, the Tourism Minister, Ghulam Hassan Mir, urged the youth to channelize their energy in restoring the glory of Kashmiri cultural ethos to make it once again an abode of peace and tranquility. The Minister was addressing at a Sufiyana Mouseeqi (music concert) organized by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages here today. The renowned Sofiyana Museeqikar and Sangeet Natak Academy awardee, Mr. Gh. Mohd Saznawaz presented a mesmerizing hour-long concert that enthralled the audience. The Minister, who was also the chief guest on the occasion, said that youth have a pivotal role in bringing back the smiles on the face of the people by preserving and promoting cultural heritage of Kashmir that preaches universal harmony, tolerance and amity. The situation has to be reversed towards lasting peace, the dawn of which has begun with the coming into power of the 5-party coalition Government, he added. Lauding the thrilling and captivating performance by the artists, Mr. Mir said that the State has no dearth of talent but the need is to identify and sharpen them by exposing them to the national and international levels. He said that the three regions of the State have their own varied cultures and traditions which blended into one makes Jammu and Kashmir unique and rich. The artists of the State, he said possesses all the qualities but need only encouragement and right direction, the Minister added. The Government, he said would not dither in extending required facilities for promoting the artists of the State. Mr. Mir said that the State is gifted composite culture, art, craft, language and dialects and in music too the State has the distinction of having different music and ragas that have enriched the Hindustani music. He said that soothing tones of Santoor, Sarangi and folk songs have salubrious effect on the minds of the people. Deliberating on the Sufiyana Mousieeqi, the Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir occupies a distinct place in the cultural history in this regard. He said that the sublime effect of Sufiyana Mousieeqi engulfs not only the hearts and minds but also on the soul. ‘It takes you in different world which one cannot imagine and deliberate upon’, said Mr. Mir. Reiterating the coalition Government’s resolve to revive cultural heritage of all the regions of the State, the Minister said that the tourism department has organized festivals at Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Katra and Leh this year for promoting and popularization of the culture and traditions. He said more such festivals are being planned in near future also. Secretary Cultural Academy Mr Ramesh Mehta who also spoke on the occasion said that the culture and tourism is interlinked and added that the Government is making earnest efforts to promote the culture of all the three regions. He said that by organization of such festivals has educational importance in so far that the youth of the State is apprised of their rich and glorious cultural heritage. He also sought the cooperation of the writers, artists and intellectuals in making their contribution for enriching the Academy with new innovations and styles. MLA Mr Mohammad Khalil, former Secretary Cultural Academy Mr M.Y. Taing and prominent writers and artists attended the Mehfail. Bladder cancer surgery
performed successfully Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 18: In a landmark step at Bee Enn General Hospital, Rumal Singh suffering from cancer urinary bladder (multifocal invasive type) was successfully operated upon by a team of doctors led by Dr Satish Sharma, surgeon and urologist and Dr Satya Dev Gupta, anesthesiologist and intensive care specialist, Dr Arun Arora-anesthesiologist. The radical cystoprostatectomy surgery which took 9 hours included removal of cancerous bladder, prostate and adjacent structures and diversion in urine to the abdominal wall by convalescing at the hospital for the last 11 days and will soon be discharged. Dr Satish Sharma has done his fellowship training in urology from Germany and is a receipt of prestigious union of international cancer control Geneva award. He has also received the Norwegian Cancer Society award. Speaking on the occasion, he praised the state of art facilities at Bee Enn General Hospital and said that the hospital has the distinction of being the first hospital in private sector to conduct such specialised surgeries in Jammu. He further said that for similar surgery out the State patient will have to pay lakhs of rupees. At Jammu the cost of surgery works to 1/3 of the outside State cost. Dr Satish Sharma expressed his gratitude to Dr Satya Dev Gupta and his colleagues Dr Arun Arora, Dr Kuldeep Singh and also resident doctors and paramedical staff of Bee Enn Hospital for helping him in conducting the marathon surgery successfully. Legal Line By Rajesh Bhat Dear Readers: The Legal Line is in its third issue today with tremendous response from the public to our earlier two columns. We seek readers’ suggestions to make this column more interesting so that it could benefit the common men, who are one way or the other connected with law. We will be happy to solicit your views and incorporate the same in our future columns. Such Advocates, who want to talk about the particular issue, may contact us directly any time without any inhibition. The basic idea of this column is that people should know law and the rights which they enjoy under Indian/State Constitution. Contact us on Legal-Line, C/o Daily Excelsior Janipur Jammu any day so that your view point on a particular subject could be projected in the right perspective. The Acting Chief Justice VK Jhanji of the State High Court, in a significant judgment recently ordered a husband, a Muslim by faith, to pay maintenance of Rupees 500 per month to his divorcee wife. This prompted us to take up the topic of divorce in brief, so far as it pertains to Muslim ladies in our Society. The Legal Line wanted to know for the information of general masses that whether a Muslim lady too can approach the court for the dissolution of the marriage or is this prerogative vested only with the Male?. To know the answer, we contacted an upcoming bright lawyer of our State, Tahir Khursheed Raina to know his view-point on the subject. According to Mr Tahir, Islam favours the pious relation of marriage than divorce, as man is half without marriage. Divorce, according to Mr Tahir Raina is an undesirable act and can be sought in extreme conditions and that too with proper procedure as per the tenants of Islam and giving so many opportunities to both the sides for reconciliation before going for the ultimate departure. Coming to the topic ‘ Can Muslim woman seek dissolution of marriage?’, Mr Tahir Raina referred to the Jammu and Kashmir Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act 1999, whereby a Muslim lady can definitely seek dissolution of marriage and is entitled to seek decree for the dissolution of her marriage on any of the nine grounds listed in the Act. If the whereabouts of the husband have not been known for a period of four years, the woman can approach the court for the dissolution of her marriage. Further, the Act says that after a woman has asked her husband to provide her maintenance, if he wilfully neglects or fails for a period of not less than two years to do so, the lady is entitled to obtain a decree. Further, if a husband has been sentenced to imprisonment for a period of seven years or upwards, the dissolution is possible, or if a husband has failed to perform, without reasonable course his marital obligations for a period of three years. In the Act, it is mentioned that if the husband is impotent at the time of marriage and continues to be so, the woman has a right to dissolute the marriage. This Act— the J&K Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act 1999 (1942 AD) is applicable to the whole of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and it had received the assent of Maharaja on October 21, 1942 and was published in Government Gazette on 3rd of Poh, 1999. In the Act it is mentioned that the dissolution of marriage can also take place if repudiated the marriage before she attained the age of 18 years. A clause is mentioned that the lady can seek dissolution if the husband treats her with cruelty— like habitually assaults her or makes her life miserable by cruelty of conduct, associates with woman of evil repute or leads a life of debauchery, attempts to force the wife to lead an immoral life or if a husband has more wives than one and doesn’t treat them with equality or any other ground which is recognized as valid for the dissolution of marriages under Muslim Law. Mr Tahir Raina says that there are certain clarifications in the Act before the dissolution takes places. In case of whereabouts of a husband are not known for four years and if a decree is passed on this ground, the same shall not take effect for a period of one year from the date of such decree, and if during such period the husband either appears in person before the court or satisfies the court through an authorized agent as to is whereabouts, the court shall set aside that decree. Mr Tahir while quoting the Act, says that no decree shall be passed on the ground-III, (sentencing of husband for a period of seven years or more) until the sentence has become final. Further, in case of impotency of the husband, before passing a decree, the Court has to make an order requiring the husband to satisfy the court within a period of one year from the date of such order that he has ceased to be impotent and if the husband so satisfies the court within such period, no decree shall be passed on the ground. Mr Tahir feels that divorce is a last measure as Islam like other religions too is extremely in favour of reconciliation in the event of any disagreement or misunderstanding between the spouses and only in the extreme situation, the provision of dissolution/divorce is to be invoked. |
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