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| Mufti urges people to pay power tariff Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Asserting that his government has bowed before people’s demand and given relief of about Rs. 400 crore in power tariff, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.....more Rail
to reach Udhampur by March Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that rail connectivity to Kashmir would speed up socio-economic transformation......more Nissar
orders revaluation Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: A meeting of officers of Education, Technical Education and Principals of Polytechnic College was held here today........more One
killed, 7 injured Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: One person was killed and seven others received injuries in separate road accidents while.....more Mula Ram
hails Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: During the first seven months of the current financial year, financial........more |
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Seminar
on ‘Governance of Higher Education’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Vice-Chairman of University Grants Commission Prof V N Rajasekharan Pillai has stressed for decentralised academic management in higher........more J&K
signs MoU Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma today inaugurated a 3-day workshop on ‘Export potential for carpets in Europe and Exim Procedures’ here this evening........more Pradesh
Vishwakarma Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Pradesh Vishwakarma Sabha took out a Shobha Yatra on the eve of Vishwakarma Day........more Mir
announces special Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 20: Announcing a special package for the owners of House Boats, Shikaras, Guest Houses, Hotels besides......more |
Mufti urges people to pay power tariff Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Asserting that his government has bowed before people’s demand and given relief of about Rs. 400 crore in power tariff, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today called upon the people to pay power tariff urgent and regularly on the new electric flat rate slabs. This would help in maintaining present level of power supply and pace of development in the state. Addressing a largely attended public meeting at Frisal in Homeshalibugh constituency of Anantnag district today, the Chief Minister said that the government has recently announced relief in power tariff and now they should immediately clear their power dues. He also asked government officials, industrialists, mill owners and other sections of consumers to be prompt in payment of electricity charges. He said the new slabs have been worked out in such a way that poorer sections get maximum relief. He also emphasised for regularizing all the illegal connections forthwith failing which a stringent action would be taken for power theft. Mufti Sayeed said that the government is spending a whopping sum of Rs. 1600 crore annually on power purchase from the northern grid against which the recovery last year was around Rs. 320 crore last year. Minister for Agriculture Abdul Aziz Zargar and Minister of State for Health and Medical Educatin Abdul Gaffar Sofi also addressed the public meeting. The Chief Minister announced that Frisal, Qumoh, Arwani and Yaripora would be upgraded as notified areas committees for their integrated development to provide best possible civic amenities to the people. Mufti Sayeed said that detailed project reports would also be prepared for Loktipora, Hassanpora and Tulkhana lift irrigation schemes and work on these would commence shortly to provide assured irrigation facilities to the area. He said that rice research centre in the area would be fully equipped and upgraded for larger benefit of the farmers. Referring to the setting up of additional campus of Kashmir University in south Kashmir, the Chief Minister said that a suitable stretch of land is being identified in the area. He said the campus would be environment friendly and constructed at a specious place keeping in view its future expansion. Referring to the development needs of the area, the Chief Minister said that every thing possible would be done for speeding up socio-economic uplift of the people of the area. The Chief Minister, said that peace is a pre-requisite for speedy progress. He asserted that the commitments made by the coalition government to the people of the state in its common minimum programme would be fulfilled in letter and sprit. Giving full credit to the people for a relaxed atmosphere and semblance of normalcy in the valley, the Chief Minister said markets remain open and public transport plies till late in the evening while Srinagar-Jammu national highway also remains open till midnight. Referring last Friday’s militant attack on M. A. Road here, he said there was no panic among the people that shows a sense of security among them. Mr. Zargar appreciated the people for strengthening democracy in the state by participating in the assembly election last year and discouraging family rule. He described it as a silent revolution. Mr. Sofi, who is also the local MLA, said that the area, which remained neglected during the past regime, has witnessed a new phase of socio-economic transformation during the past one year of the coalition government. He said two high schools have been upgraded to the higher secondary level, 22 new primary schools opened and lift irrigation schemes made functional. |
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Rail
to reach Udhampur by March Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that rail connectivity to Kashmir would speed up socio-economic transformation and strengthen peace process in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister was interacting with a team of senior officers of the Railways headed by the General Manager, Northern Railways, R. R. Jaruhar at a meeting here this evening. He appreciated the accelerated pace of execution on the project and said that the hope has been strengthened for a dream coming true soon. It has also generated lot of economic activity and open new vistas of development. Mufti Sayeed assured the railway authorities that explicit instructions would be issued for construction of access roads to the railway stations. He said the support from the state government would be forthcoming for expeditious completion of the rail project. The Chief Minister emphasised the need for taking up construction of railway holiday homes simultaneously, as it would generate employment and economic activity for the locals. He said the architecture of these should merge with the environs. He also called for involving consortiums of unemployed engineers of the state as well as contractors by allotting them construction work in the project. Mr. Jaruhar appreciated the promptness with which the State Governments has acquired land and handed it over to the railway for execution of the project. He said the work on laying the track would commence soon. He said best design engineers have been associated for designing the bridge on river Chenab in view of its height and length. The railway authorities stated that 6000 people including 1100 engineers of the state are working with various contractors in the project. He said it has also created indirect employment for a large number of locals. They informed the meeting that Jammu-Udhampur railway project would be commissioned by March next year while Udhampur-Katra and Qazigund-Baramulla sections of Rs. 5500 crore Udhampur-Baramulla rail link project would be completed by March and December 2005, respectively. Katra-Qazigund section of this high profile project would be commissioned by August 2007. Chief Administrative Officer, Northern Railway, Mr. Rakesh Chopra also participated in the deliberations. |
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Nissar
orders revaluation of answer sheets Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: A meeting of officers of Education, Technical Education and Principals of Polytechnic College was held here today under the chairmanship of Minister for Youth Services and Sports and Technical Education, Haji Nissar Ali. The meeting discussed the results declared by the State Board of Technical Education (SBOTE) recently and decided that the Principals of all the Polytechnic colleges would obtain willingness of the students’ by October 30 desirous for revaluation of their answer sheets. Such students have to deposit Rs. 100 fee for this purpose. Students who want to check their answer sheets should deposit Rs. 50 by November 5, 2003. It was also decided in the meeting that the SBOTE would start revaluation process after November 5. The SBOTE would get the services of permanent technical teachers of Polytechnic colleges for this purpose, who would complete the process of revaluation within the prescribed period fixed by the SBOTE. Addressing the meeting, the Minister exhorted the SBOTE authorities to implement the norms already fixed for conducting of examinations to avoid any irregularities. He said strict action would be taken if any lapse on the part of examiners, checkers and evaluators found. He asked the teaching faculty to work hard and impart standard education to the students. He said that the heads of departments in their streams, who will bring better results, would be rewarded suitably. Among others the meeting was attended by the Commissioner Secretary Mrs Sunali Kumar, Director Technical Education, G. H. Khan, former Director Technical Education, Mrs Masooda Yasin, Secretary SBOTE and Principals of Government Polytechnic colleges. |
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One killed, 7 injured in road accidents Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: One person was killed and seven others received injuries in separate road accidents while as a youth was stabbed. Police spokesman said that an unidentified person was killed in road accident at Mamka under the jurisdiction of R S Pura Police Station. He was rushed to hospital by driver of vehicle bearing registration number JK02-1389 and later he succumbed to his injuries. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. Meanwhile, seven persons— police wireless operator Sunil Kumar, Banto Bibi, wife of Rafiq of Jouria, Feroz Ali, son of Kaka Hussain of Phallian Mandal, Darshan Lal, son of Kaka Ram, Darshal Lal, son of Kaka Ram, Ramesh Lal, son of Girdhari Lal of R S Pura of R S Pura, Bachan Lal, son of Kunj Lal of Akhnoor and Ravinder Gupta, son of Sardari Lal of Gandhi Nagar received injuries in separate road accidents. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. Meanwhile, one Surjeet Singh, son of Hardeep Singh of Model Town Digiana was stabbed by one Jarnail Singh of Digiana. The victim has been hospitalised. |
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Mula Ram hails recovery drive by SC/ST Corpn Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: During the first seven months of the current financial year, financial assistance of Rs 34.81 lakh has been provided to 456 SC, ST and other backward entrepreneurs for setting up income generating units in the state as against Rs 38.42 lakh provided during the last financial year for setting up 655 such units. This was disclosed at the 30th meeting of Board of Directors of Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe and Backward Classes, Development Corporation held here today under the chairmanship of Minister for Social Welfare, Mula Ram. Several decisions were taken to improve functioning of the corporation. Representative of Union Social Welfare Ministry informed the meeting that they could also provide a helping hand in imparting necessary training in different trades. He said for this purpose necessary survey for the feasibility of viable industries would be conducted before giving a final nod for such proposals. Mr Mula Ram expressed satisfaction over the process of loan recovery in the state and hoped the corporation would strive hard for achieving better results in future also. Decisions of the previous meeting and action taken thereof were also reviewed at the meeting. The Commissioner/Secretary Social Welfare, G.D. Wadhwa, Director Social Welfare, Kashmir, G.N. Bodha and representatives of State Finance/Planning Department were also present in the meeting. |
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Seminar on
‘Governance of Higher Education’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Vice-Chairman of University Grants Commission Prof V N Rajasekharan Pillai has stressed for decentralised academic management in higher education and opined that students should also be made part of this. "Decentralisation of all sections with delegates of power coupled with accountability is must for actual growth of varsities, he said while addressing the inaugural session of three-day UGC Golden Jubilee National Seminar on ‘Governance of Higher Education’, at Jammu University, here today. Prof Pillai stressed that University means academic freedom and academic freedom means autonomy of teachers. "A teachers should have say and independence in preparation of syllabus, examinations and evaluation and if he is not functioning independently that means someone is interference in his autonomy," he opined. The UGC Vice-Chairman disclosed that World Bank’s financial assistance to UGC and other education bodies was also subjected to autonomy of these institutions and listed the names of some prestigious varsities and colleges working with full autonomy. He also disclosed that in developed countries, most of the colleges and varsities are autonomous. Suggesting that there should be institutionlised mechanism for autonomy, he also stressed for interaction between students and teachers of the different departments. Disclosing that in India only 0.5 per cent of the population was getting higher education, Prof Pillai said that the data speaks about the urgent need of attention required for further development of higher education. " And the target can be achieved only by restructuring governance part of higher education," he added. Minister for Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Muzaffar Hussain Baig, who was the chief guest on the occasion, also favoured the opinion of UGC Vice-Chairman on autonomy of teachers and said that it was need of the hour. He opined that there was an intimate linkage between the higher education and the primary education and one can not be separated from each other. "Therefore if at all we have to arrive at the proper understanding of crisis in higher education, we must also try to diagnose the problems in the field of primary education," he explained. Mr Baig stressed that education must be a process of social building and meet day to day challenges. JU Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo, in his presidential address, opined that core issue of the crisis in higher education is primarily linked with the system of governance. "Many of the institutions we are working with today are basically a colonial legacy and it is high time that we initiate the process of restructuring and replacing them with systems which are able to meet the contemporary demand of globalisation," he said Earlier, Dean Academic Affairs Prof O P Sharma presented the welcome address and spoke about the basic objective of holding the seminar. He expressed the hope that given the nature and participation of scholars from different regions, some fruitful deliberations would take place. Vote of thanks was presented by Prof S K Sharma while Prof Keshav Sharma anchored proceedings of the inaugural session of seminar. The inaugural session was followed by technical session in which Prof A N Sadhu made a presentation. |
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J&K signs MoU with PHDCCI
for Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma today inaugurated a 3-day workshop on ‘Export potential for carpets in Europe and Exim Procedures’ here this evening. The workshop has been organized by the newly established Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) in collaboration with PHDCCI, New Delhi and Konrad Adenauer Foundation, Germany. Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Raman Mattoo, Chief Secretary Dr. Sudhir S. Biloria, Director General IMPA, K. B. Pillai, Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce, A. Sashasranaman, Secretary General, PHDCCI, B. P. Dhaka, Director Indo-German Export Promotion, Dr. Dietrich Kebshul, President Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Jammu, Ram Sahai and senior representatives of PHDCCI were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Sharma said that entrepreneurship development has to play a crucial role in creating income earning opportunities besides increasing participation of disadvantaged and marginalized groups in the society. He said the development of small and medium industries would go a long way in tackling the unemployment problem among the educated youth, which has assumed serious dimensions. He laid stress on skill development especially when entrepreneurship is at the cross roads of liberalization and globalization. The Deputy Chief Minister laid emphasis on optimum utilization of available resources and said that only such industries should be set up for which the local raw material and manpower is available locally. He said the Kashmir handicrafts, which is known for all over the world, has the great export potential and the sector needs to be tapped fully. Explaining the objectives of establishing JKEDI, Mr. Sharma said the purpose is to encourage and develop entrepreneurship development in the state and provide training and consultancy services to the existing and prospective entrepreneurs in all aspects relating to entrepreneurship development. The Deputy Chief Minister called upon the institute to select only the deserving and willing entrepreneurs for imparting training in different trades. He said the priority should be given to the educated unemployed youth who have either crossed the upper age limit or who are nearing completion. Minister of State for Industries Raman Mattoo said that it is an irony that despite huge reserves of raw materials like limestone and gypsum, the state was importing cement worth Rs. 300 crore annually. He said we have not been able to cross over Rs. 700 crore mark in carpet exports. He said the government has given top priority to the industrial sector as it has vast potential for employment generation. He said thrust is being laid on optimum utilization of available resources and maintained that there should be no ambiguity in thoughts and actions. Chief Secretary Dr. Sudhir S. Biloria in his address dwelt at length on the entrepreneurship development and said that it will help in better understanding human beings. He said the institute, which was conceived in 1997 has remained in limbo for six years and with the active cooperation of PHDCCI the institute has become functional in the state from today. Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce A Sashasranaman, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ram Sahai and Secretary General PHDCCI B P Dhaka also spoke on the occasion. Later, an MoU was signed between the Jammu and Kashmir Government and PHDCCI envisaging close cooperation for entrepreneurship development in Jammu and Kashmir. Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce A. Sashasranaman signed the MoU on behalf of Jammu and Kashmir while the PHDCCI was represented by its Secretary General B. P. Dhaka. |
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Pradesh Vishwakarma Sabha takes out Shobha Yatra Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Pradesh Vishwakarma Sabha took out a Shobha Yatra on the eve of Vishwakarma Day. People from the districts Jammu, Kathua, Udhampur and Rajouri participated in a big way in the Yatra which started from Vishwakarma Mandir New Plots. The Jhanki comprised of various tableaux taken out by the devotees. A large number of devotees on scooters and cars formed the religious procession which passed through the main streets of the walled city and culminated at Vishwakarma Temple at Shaktinagar. Before serving Langer to the participants the gathering was addressed by Messrs Kali Dass, H R Chargotra, Romesh Billa, R L Chargotra, K C Raina and other top executives of Vishwakarma Sabha. The speakers stressed on the community to be united and shun social evils prevailing in the society including smoking and drinking. Prominent people who took part in the procession included Messrs Harbans Lal, Col C D Mangotra, Capt Mohan Lal, Romesh Billa, Ragbir Chand, Lakhpat Rai, H R Chargotra, Prof Kali Dass, Joginder Paul, Jagdev Chalotra, K D Dalmotra, Mangal Dass, Sain Dass, Mohinder Lal, Sham Lal, Bodh Raj, Romesh Angotra, Parshotam Angotra, Rattan Lal, Nagar Mal and many others. |
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Mir announces special tourism package Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 20: Announcing a special package for the owners of House Boats, Shikaras, Guest Houses, Hotels besides Ponnywallas, the Minister for Tourism Ghulam Hassan Mir said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir were keenly interested in revival of tourism industry as it largely contributed to their economy. Addressing a well attended Press Conference here this morning, the Minister spelt out the salient features of the package aimed at to provide financial succor to the affected sections directly associated with tourism. These include soft loans ranging between Rs. one lakh to Rs.3 lakh on 4 per cent nominal interest for the Houseboat owners under different categories for renovation and repairs of their boats. The package also includes bank loans for hoteliers and guesthouse owners for renovations and refurbishment of the guest rooms. They will be entitled to a subsidy enabling them to avail of loan facility on barely 4 per cent interest. Similarly all registered Shikara owners would be eligible for assistance of capital grant of Rs. 20,000 for repairs and up-gradation of Shikaras. He said 50 per cent of the cost of repair and refurbishment or Rs. 10,000 (which ever is less) will be disbursed as first installment while as second installment shall be released on completion of repair and renovation work. He also announced that 235 beneficiaries have been identified under this scheme for providing loans under the package which would be advanced to them at a function within a couple of days. Mr. Mir appealed to Media persons to project positive side of the situation in the valley through print and electronic media so as to dispel fear psychosis and entice more and more domestic, as well as foreign tourists in the valley. He said tourism played a vital role in boosting the economy of the State, therefore, intensive focus is being paid on revival of this sector. Giving details of tourist influx in the valley, the Minister said that as many as 1.75 lakh tourists over and above 1.50 lakh pilgrim tourists have visited the valley during this season as compared to a few thousand of tourists during past many years. Replying certain questions by media persons, Mr. Mir said that tourist infrastructure in the State was being strengthened for the comfort and convenience of the visiting tourists as also an effective publicity drive within and outside the State for promotion of tourism has been launched, which started yielding encouraging results. He also expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee who also evinced keen interest in the revival of tourist industry in the State and approved the said package. Apart from Minister of State for tourism G. A. Mir, Secretary tourism Najam-u-saqib, Director General Tourism Saleem Beigh and Director Tourism, Nazir Ahmad Bhat and Managing Director JK TDC Abdul Aziz Wani were also present. |
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Mufti for cultural renaissance in J&K Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Maintaining that voluntary organizations have to play a major role in shaping the destiny of students, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that his Government would support efforts that can lead the youngsters from ignorance to enlightenment. He called for sustained efforts by various NGOs to achieve this righteous objective. Addressing academicians, teachers and students from across the valley at a composite cultural programme "Saine Kasheer" organized under Project Croksy by Institute of Peace, Research and Action (IPRA) in collaboration with Directorate of School Education, Kashmir at SKICC here today, Mufti Sayeed said that NGOs working with missionary zeal can supplement government’s efforts to universalize education and raise its standards. He said even during turmoil missionary schools did commendable job by contributing their share in educating the students of the valley. The Chief Minister said his Government has embarked on a mission to ensure a better tomorrow to the children especially orphans and those affected due to turmoil. He said every effort would be made to adopt these neglected lot, saying that he personally visited orphanages and other such centres to give them confidence that someone is there to assuage their sufferings. Lauding the role of Prof. Susheela Bhan, Director IPRA for the efforts to ensure greater interaction among the student community, the Chief Minister said this type of activity helps the children. He said a cultural renaissance was required to preserve our rich cultural heritage commonly known as Kashmiriyat. Mufti Sayeed said that winds of change were blowing in the State and the mindset of the people was for return of complete normalcy. He said though sporadic incidents of violence do take place but the people yearned for a solution of the Kashmir problem. He said the Prime Minister had extended hand of friendship to Pakistan from Kashmir and hoped that the process would continue. Any sort of Indo-Pak tension brought miseries to the people of the State, he added. He said during the militant attack near his official residence, the police were successful to rescue unharmed students of a computer centre from the shopping complex. The Chief Minister directed that all the students who took part in the various cultural programmes at today’s function be taken to Pahalgam for a visit. Mufti Sayeed also released a newsletter of IPRA on the occasion. The Chief Minister gave away trophies and prizes to the winners of various events. |
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Boarding school in every district soon: Govt Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Jammu and Kashmir Government contemplates to set up boarding schools in every district of the State for the children hit by militancy in either way for which expanses will be borne out by the State Rehabilitation Council. The land for the purpose would be identified by the respective Deputy Commissioners in consultation with District Social Welfare officers. This was stated by the Minister for Social Welfare, Mr Mula Ram at a meeting of Deputy Commissioners and District Social Welfare officers of Kashmir division while reviewing implementation of schemes of rehabilitation council here today. The Commissioner/Secretary, Social Welfare, G.D. Wadhwa, Director Composite Rehabilitation Centre (CLC), Sahani, Executive Director Rehabilitation Council, Ahmad and Director Social Welfare Kashmir, G.N. Bodha attended the meeting. The Minister stressed upon the officers to gear up men and machinery to reach out to every militancy victim and ensure that the benefit of schemes percolates to the deserving. Mr Mula Ram expressed satisfaction over the performance of field agency and hoped they will leave no stone unturned in implementation of schemes of the council in letter and spirit. He also directed to ensure that all the pending cases of scholarship after completing required formalities are sent to the concerned quarter within a fortnight for early disposal. Several other measures aimed at in providing timely relief to the victims were discussed. Director CRC, Mr Sahani suggested to organize identification-cum-distribution camps in every district for distribution of artificial limbs, hearing aids devices, wheel chairs and other items among the beneficiaries. He said all the items except artificial limbs could be made available forthwith for which one months time would be required for its measurement and fabrication. He said such aids could be given free of cost to those beneficiaries whose income is registered below Rs 500. Divulging on different schemes, Executive Director Rehabilitation Council, Gowhar Ahmad said that the Council is putting its efforts to provide much needed and timely relief under different schemes to the people. He added the current years action plan has been fixed at Rs 8.06 crore, of this interim relief of Rs 90 lakh has recently been released for disposal of registered cases and kept at the disposal of Deputy Commissioners to meet out the requirements. |
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Kundal for
formulating district level Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: The Principle Secretary Agriculture Production, B.R. Kundal has called for comprehensive micro planning for boosting horticulture and agriculture production in the State in a big way. Speaking at a review meeting on various schemes under centrally sponsored micro-management programme at Agriculture Complex, Lalmandi, here today, Mr. Kundal asked the Officers to formulate model schemes for expanding the horizon of horticulture and agriculture production in the State with focus on developing separate varieties and species of fruits. He asked the officers to dove-tail schemes for getting optimum results adding that the concerned Chief Horticulture and Agriculture Officers should formulate a standardized micro plan for Agriculture and allied sectors for the current year within a fortnight. The plan shall have focus on developing hybrid nurseries with assured irrigation facilities also, he added. About Rs. 17.77 Crore are being spent under micro-management on promotion of agriculture and allied sectors during current year which includes Rs. 1.93 Crore as unspent balance of last fiscal State’s share would be about Rs. 1.95 crore. Mr. Kundal also called for constitution of a joint monitoring cum evaluation committee of Agriculture and allied departments to oversee implementation of Micro-management programme constantly. He asked the director, horticulture planning and marketing to start procurement of C-grade apple from the fruit growers instantly under market intervention scheme. He said a compressive vegetable development plan for each district should be formulated instantly keeping in view the potential of the area. He asked the officers to promote concept of on-farm cold stores for preserving vegetable production and increase its shelf life. The special secretary Agriculture production deptt. Mohammad Syed Khan, Heads of agriculture and allied departments, chief agriculture and horticulture Officers also attended the meeting. |
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Rich tributes paid to
Laxmi Bai Kelkar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Ch. Lal Singh today urged the social and voluntary organizations to shun politics and work for the betterment of society in real sense. The Minister was addressing a function organized at Women College Parade by RashtraSevika Samiti in commemoration of 98th birth anniversary of Laxmi Bai Kelkar, popularly known as Mosi Ji, the founder of the organization. He said social organizations should keep aloof from Party politics and they should not promote any particular ideology in the larger interests of nation and people. The Minister said though he has no ideological link with the organization as both belong to a different school of thought "still I attended the function when I was invited". He regretted that the social organizations created for service of man kind deviate from their path and promote the particular political philosophy which is not in the better interests of the nation. Eulogizing the role of Indian women and the status given to them by our ancestors, he said the women are actually the pillars of our society. It is they who can protect our rich culture and traditions, he added. Regretting that the modernization was fast replacing our rich culture, the Minister said those who forget their identity perish. "We have to change our thinking as per our culture and traditions", he added. "I feel proud to be a Hindu and not the one who is for a particular community but for all Indians", he said, adding a true Hindu is he who respects every human being irrespective of his cast, creed, colour and religion. He while expressing concern over the decreasing role of women population, regretted that abortions are done to avoid the birth of a girl child. This is a big social evil to which our society is rapidly falling the prey, he added. Ch. Lal Singh said he has launched a campaign against those doctors conducting the sonography tests for such purposes. He also lashed out at the political parties supporting such people. He, while exhorting the girl students to enrich their own culture and traditions asked them to say a good-by to the modernization which is ruining the society. He also assured them that his Ministry will open a health camp in the Parade Women College and issue the health cards to all students. The Minister on the occasion also released two booklets namely Mritinjai Ham Hindu Hain and Hindutva Bharat ki pran shakti. Earlier addressing the function Prem Lata, Seh Kari Vahika of the Samiti highlighted the role of her organization. She also paid rich tributes to Mosi Ji and threw light on her valuable contribution for nation building. She said various projects have been undertaken by the Samiti in different places of the country for the upliftment and empowerment of women. Addressing the function Promila Tayeji, the chief of the organization said the women can play a great role in health care. She said the empowerment of the women is necessary for the better health of the people and society as a whole. She said in today’s terminology the empowerment of the women means arming them with their rights but for Mosi Ji it was altogether a different thing. For her the empowerment of the women was to make them more stronger. She said the education is not only how to earn money but how we will become good human beings. Among others the function was also attended by College Principal, Prof Vijay Laxmi, Rama Ji J&K chief of the Samiti, Sneh Bali, Mamta Singh, Sulekha Choudhary and representatives of various social organizations. |
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Dogri Sahitya Sabha dedicates
seminar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Dogri Sahitya Sabha has decided to dedicate this year’s seminar to renowned Dogri poet Late Padamdev Singh ‘Nirdosh’ in the annual cultural and academic event which will start at Town Hall Akhnoor on October 26. In the fifth meeting of Sabha which concluded under the chairman of DSS Kunwar Shakti Singh, Sabha president Ashok Mishra told that that the seminar will be inaugurated by Assembly Speaker Tara Chand and R&B Minister Madan Lal Sharma will preside over. He said seminar will commence with conferring of honour "Nirdosh Smriti Samman-2003" to six luminaries who have distinguished services to their credit for upliftment of Dogra culture and social welfare. The same evening will be dedicated to Nirdosh and Ved Pal Deep, in which there is possibility of participation by some top singers of the country. Seminar will conclude with traditional ‘Kavi Sammelan’. |
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Balyogi Yogeshwar delivers religious sermons Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Swami Balyogi Yogeshwarji delivered his religious sermons at Mandir Devi Dwara Pir Mitha Jammu this morning. This function was organised by All India Young Blood Organisation, J&K in which Balyogi Yogeshwar was accompanied by various saints and chairman of the Ram Narayan Trusty, Suresh Sharma. A large number of devotees were presented to pay their respect to Balyogi. Virinder Mahajan, president of the Organisation welcomed the Sants and requested all the people of Jammu to participate in the forthcoming Ati Maha Vishnu Maha Yagna which is going to be held from October 26 to November 5, 2003 at Tawi island. Addressing the function, Pawan Gupta, secretary of the Organisation said that it was golden opportunity for the people of Jammu to get salvation by participating in the forthcoming Yagna. He urged upon the people to utilise this opportunity. Speaking on the occasion, Swami Balyogi said that main aim of organising this Yagna was to restore peace in the country in general and State in particular. He said that forthcoming Yagna will purify souls of people. Ashok Verma, Naresh Kumar, Ravinder Verma, Kishore Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Krishana Sharma and others present on the occasion. |
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Wazir inspects work on Reasi-Bhamag road Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Chief Engineer PWD (R&B) Jammu A S Wazir conducted two day tour of remote Bhamag area in tehsil Reasi of district Udhampur. The Chief Engineer on the instructions of the Minister for PWD, Madan Lal Sharma supervised the construction work being carried out on this link road which will connect Bhamag area with Reasi. Mr Singh also visited Sahri Bariot area about 15 kms on foot. Mr Singh issued on the spot instructions to liquidate the claims of the labourers/ contractors and speed up the pace of work going on. The Chief Engineer also met a deputation of the people of Landhar -Pancheri area and issued on the spot instructions to the field staff of Udhampur Division to speed up the pace of work on Landhar-Galiote road for which adequate funds have already been released. Construction work on Ajal-Mongri road, Ladda road and construction of Dak Bungalow at Mongri were also inspected. |
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Gupta lashes out at Jehadi forces Excelsior Correspondent DODA, Oct 20: Union Minister of State (MoS) for Defence, Prof Chaman Lal Gupta has said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve all praise for their constant fight against the Jehadi forces and Pak sponsored Proxy war. Addressing a public meeting at Bulandpur village he said the terrorists coming from Pakistan have also killed a large number of Muslims along with Hindus and Sikhs in the state. The only fault of these people was that they were not supporting the Pakistan and its Jehadi forces, he added. Lashing out at the Jehadi forces he said what kind of Jehad is to chop off hands, noses, ears and limbs of the people. He said Pakistan after its defeat in four wars has now launched a proxy war and in this war she is also slated to face a crushing defeat. "In Pakistan the military rulers did not allow democracy to flourish so they have no right to talk about Kashmiris", he added. Referring to the problems of the people in Doda district, the MoS Defence accused the State Government for not utilizing the huge funds properly provided by Centre for developmental works. The people in this hilly belt face multiple problems, he added. He said the Blundpur can be developed as a best tourist resort but so far no steps have been taken in this regard by the successive state governments. Prof Gupta during his visit to the village inaugurated two rooms of school building. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Nami Dogri Sanstha (NDS) held a literary meet at Jagriti Niketan School here. Mrs Ayodhya Rani Gamkhar presided over the meet while’s Satya Prakash Anand was the chief guest on the occasion. In phase one of the literary meet, short stories were read by Mrs Gamkhar, Sham Talib, Satpal and Dr Harish Kaila. In phase second, a poetic session was held in which SP Anand, Dr Kaila, Mrs Gamkhar, Yash Paul Yash and Sham Talib recited their latest poems. Mrs Gamkhar termed the "Goshti" as a successful one. Dr Harish Kaila extended vote of thanks to the participants and appreciated the collected efforts of one and all for the cause of Dogri language, art and culture. CE PDD refutes PPEU chief’s statement Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Chief Engineer Electrical (M&RE) Jammu wing has strongly refuted the statement of president—PPEU, Shakti Gupta which has appeared in the section press. In a statement the Chief Engineer clarified that it was general complaint of the consumers that they were not getting monthly bills of the power consumed. Moreover, it becomes difficult for them to pay the accumulated electricity bills. In order to overcome this difficulty a decision to print and distribute the electricity bills in Jammu and Kashmir was taken in a meeting held by Principal Secretary PDD on July 31 this year. On the basis of this meeting, tenders were invited by M&RE Chief Engineers of Jammu and Kashmir provinces and wider publicity was given to the whole process. Seven tenders were received which were opened on Sept 9 and the contract was allotted to the Ist lowest tenderer. The Department is contemplating to take a legal course against Shakti Gupta, president PPEU for his irresponsible statement, he maintained. Dy CM spells private sector role in total literacy Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Educational institutions have a great role in imparting quality education to enable children competes in the international arena and face the challenges confidently. The education should be value based to prepare children as responsible citizen’. Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma said at a function organized in connection with the observance of parent’s day of Srinagar British School at Tagore Hall here this morning. Mr. Sharma called upon the private institutions to supplement the Government efforts in achieving the goal of cent percent literacy in the State. Despite having free education from primary to university level in Jammu and Kashmir, the literacy percentage was far below the national average, he said and added that to achieve this objective the Government has set up a network of educational institutions in the State. He said the private institutions have a great role in imparting quality education to the children so that they compete at the national and international levels. Mr Sharma said the coalition Government is contemplating to formulate a comprehensive education policy, which will take care of the futuristic requirements of the infrastructure and other modern scientific equipments for the schools. He said the policy would also envisage private participation in the education sector for achieving the goal of cent percent literacy rate in the State by 2011. Referring to the Srinagar British School, the Deputy Chief Minister complemented the management for imparting quality education and achieving excellence in a short span of time. He said the school is credited to have introduced modern techniques of teachings, right from the preparatory level. Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE), J. P. Singh, in his address, complemented the school for securing international certificate for imparting quality and value-based education. Mr. Sharma later presented trophies and prizes among the students who had excelled in academics and other curricular activities. Earlier, the Tiny Tots of the school presented a variety cultural programme depicting the rich cultural heritage of the State and won applause from the audience. Secretary Cultural Academy Ramesh Mehta, Joint Secretary, JKBOSE, Dr. N. A. Shah and hundreds of parents were present on the occasion. The Principal of the school, Dr. Nasrut Sadat in her welcome address, gave the resume of the activities of the school. World Bank project for
conservation of Wullar Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 20: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that a comprehensive project would be prepared for conservation of Wullar lake with World Bank assistance. Interacting with the members of Kashmir People’s Ecological Council, an NGO, here this evening, the Chief Minister said that the State Government is also contemplating to prepare an ambitious project for cleaning river Jehlum. Project for Nagin lake will be prepared while project for Hygam water body has been formulated. He said the condition of all the lakes in Jammu and Kashmir would be improved in a phased manner for their conservation. Referring to the world famous Dal lake here, the Chief Minister said that an ambitious multi-dimensional project has been formulated for it. He said seven sewerage plants are being set up and encroachments would be removed and Dal dwellers rehabilitated at an alternate site to restore pristine glory of the lake which is a major attraction for the tourists worldwide. He said no houseboat waste or plastic material should be thrown in the lake and impressed upon the NGO to create awareness among the people about it. Prof. Saif-ud-Din Soz, MP urged the Chief Minister for preparing a profile and status paper on all the water bodies of the State for working out a strategy to conserve these for posterity. He also appreciated several measures already initiated by the coalition Government for conservation of water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that things have started moving positively on development front as well. The KPEC members lauded the steps taken for development of Gulmarg and other tourist spots. A presentation on concept plan of Badamwari amusement park here was also made on the occasion. The park is being developed by the Jammu and Kashmir Bank over an area of 280 kanals. It will have 6 zones for science city, solar technology park, food corner, craft bazar, boat club, rides, open space, flower beds, restaurant and children’s corner. The Chief Minister directed that no tree should be cut and rather massive plantation taken so that the park has at least 90 per cent green cover. He said that no concrete structures should be raised and the built up area must have a traditional architectural touch. The garden and Badamwari should not be disturbed and the park come up as another major attraction for the locals and the tourists in the summer capital. Several other measures for conservation of forests, wetlands, lakes, streams and wildlife also came under discussion during the meeting. Priority is to make BJP a vibrant opposition: Nirmal By Dinesh Manhotra His unanimous election as state president indicates that there is cease-fire among warring factions of the local party but many challenges ahead of the newly elected state president of BJP Dr Nirmal Singh. Besides placating all factions with in the party, he has to revitalize the virtually ‘dead’ state unit of the BJP which was completely wiped out in the recently held Assembly elections. Dr Singh was already serving the party as nominating president from December 2002 when the then president Daya Krishan Kotwal resigned owing responsibility of the debacle in Assembly election. But after his election on Sunday he is now a elected president and will be remained on this post for three consecutive years. Banking on ‘exploiting’ issues related to regional discriminations, Dr Singh seems to be prepared to adjust some talented‘dissidents’ on important posts not only to pacify them but also to utilise their talent in constructive activities. A Reader in the Post Graduate Department of History of Jammu University, Dr Singh remained state president of ABVP before joining active politics. In his conversations with EXCELSIOR, the newly elected president discloses his future plan and strategy to revive the party and make BJP a vibrant opposition. Excerpts. * It is official now that you will remain president for three years. What are your priorities ? Before listing my priority, I want to make it clear that alone Nirmal Singh cannot do any thing. All our workers and leaders will have to unitedly face the challenge as a team. Our first and fore-most priority is to make BJP a vibrant opposition in the State and expose mis-deeds of the coalition Government particularly to corner Congress and Panthers who had got votes from the people to done justice with Jammu region. * Don’t you think that it is a difficult rather impossible to make BJP a vibrant opposition unless factionalism removed from the party ? Neither there is any factionalism nor groupism. The way my elections were held is a clear indication that state unit of BJP is united like anything. There can be some difference of opinion among workers on certain issues but it does not mean that there are differences. In a political party these types of differences are routine affairs. * It means that you will also adjust dissidents in new team ? What do you mean by dissidents. There is no dissident in party and we all are team members and will unitedly work and face the challenges. As far as formation of new team is concerned, all leaders will be assigned jobs keeping in view their capabilities. While forming new team our first priority will be to see how party will be strengthen in the State. * BJP is virtually dead in the state. Don’t you think that it is impossible to revive the party at this juncture ? I do admit that BJP has got only one seat in the Assembly elections but it does not mean that party has no base in the the State. People of the Jammu region still have pinned hopes on BJP and majority of the people are of the opinion that only BJP can provide them justice for the yoke of Kashmiri rulers. Secondly, mis-deeds of Congress and Panthers have provided an opportunity to our party to re-capture the lost base. Both Congress and Panthers had votes from the people of Jammu region with a promise to provide justice to Jammu region. But way these parties have maintained criminal-silence over miseries of Jammu region has exposed their real face before the masses. There is a feeling among people that they have committed blunder by voting in favour of Congress and Panthers as main aim of these coalition partners is to enjoy power. * You mean that BJP has recovered its lost ground ? Yes. BJP has not only recovered its lost ground but its popularity is also increasing due to mis-deeds of this regime. It is all due to the increasing popularity of the BJP that coalition Government has been post-poning Jammu Municipal Corporation’s elections by one way or other. * Centre has been generously giving funds to this State but state unit of BJP has miserable failed to cash it. What are the reasons ? We are very much aware that State Government has been brazenly taking publicity of the projects being funded and sanctioned by the Centre. What I want to make it clear is that we will neither allow State Government to take political mileage from Centre’s fund nor this regime will be allowed to swindle Centre’s fund. We will monitor all funds and projects sanctioned by the Centre. Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 20: Excise toll post Lakhanpur today seized three packets of narcotics from a Kashmiri youth during search of a vehicle No. JK13-0588 at Lakhanpur. Recovery was made from the possession of Mohd Latif Dar son of Assadulah Dar, a resident of Srinagar, who was driving the vehicle. It was not immediately clear as to whether the seized narcotics was heroin or brown sugar. Its samples have been sent for testing. A handout said three packets of narcotics was concealed in unstitched ladies suits, which had been packed in the blankets. A case in this connection has been registered with Lakhanpur police station. |
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