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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: In connection with the on-going Ati Maha Vishnu Yagna, an impressive Kalash Yatra was taken out in the City of Temples. Power ...more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: The Infantry Day was celebrated today with great enthusiasm throughout the Jammu Region........more Healing
touch is for victims Excelsior Correspondent BARAMULLA, Oct 27: Endorsing the healing touch policy of the Coalition Government, Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha today said the healing .........more Nine
cases settled Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 27: Nine cases were disposed off in a Lok Adalat organised by District Legal Services Authority Kathua under the .....more Taj lauds Panchayat system for development Excelsior Correspondent Baramulla, Oct 27: The panchayat system is aimed at providing a viable medium for fulfilling the development aspirations of the people......more |
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Pak
exposed before Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Union Minister of State for Defence Prof Chaman Lal Gupta has said that nefarious designs of Pakistan of abetting ........more Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 27: The Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today paid obeisance at the Dargah of Hazrat Baba Payam-ud-Din Reshi, a venerated . ........more Court acquits range officers, forest guard after 19 years Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Special Judge Anti Corruption, M K Hanjura today acquitted two range officers, Triloki Nath Pandita, Mohammed Syed .........more City
witnesses worst Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: City today witnessed worst ever traffic jam. There was virtually chaos and confusion in the city and Traffic cops were looking helplessly to clear the choked roads.......more |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: In connection with the on-going Ati Maha Vishnu Yagna, an impressive Kalash Yatra was taken out in the City of Temples. Power Minister Mohammed Sharief Niaz today visited venue of the Yagna and inspected arrangements at the venue. City today witnessed impressive Kalash Yatra which was taken out in connection with the Yagna. Large number of devotees participated in the Kalash Yatra which started from Indira Chowk. A special Aarti and Pooja was performed at Raghunath Mandir and Hanuman Mandir Purani Mandi. The Yatra was led by about 700 devotees who had Kalash on their heads followed by large number of people who were chanting bhajans and performing Kirtans on the way. Religious fervour gripped in the city when Yatra passed through different bazaars and localities of the city. Kalash Yatra passed through Raghunath Bazar, City Chowk, Old Hospital Road, Purani Mandi, Raj Tilak Road, Parade, Moti Bazar, Pucca Danga and many other places before reaching at venue of the Yagna where special Pooja was held in this connection. Management of Ram Rajya Nar Narayan Sewa Ashram, which is conducting the Yagna, stated that Havans will be started tomorrow for which about 100 Kundas have been developed. These Kundas are specially designed keeping in view the Vedic culture. Management also informed that those who are interested to sit in Havan as Yajman should reach Yagna venue before 8 am on Tuesday morning. Havans will start at 9 am tomorrow and will be held every day. The Purant Ahuti will be held on November 5, 2003. Meanwhile Power Minister Mohammed Sharief Niaz this evening visited venue of the Yagna and inspected arrangements of the Yagna. The Minister visited every Pandal of the Yagna to inquire about the arrangements. Minister assured the management of every possible help to provide facilities to the devotees. The Minister was accompanied by senior officers of the Power Development Department (PDD) including Chief Engineer and Superintending Engineer. Later talking to EXCELSIOR Minister expressed satisfaction over arrangement being made in the Yagna. He said that he has directed the concerned authorities to take every possible steps to provide every possible help to the devotees and management of the Yagna. He said that arrangements have been made to provide 24 hour power and water supply at the Yagna venue. He said that arrangements have been also made to provide medical facilities to the devotees during the Yagna. He said that it is opportunity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir that this historical Yagna is held in this State for the world peace. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: The Infantry Day was celebrated today with great enthusiasm throughout the Jammu Region. It was on this day in 1947 that the gallant Infantry men commenced their military operations in Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard the national integrity by fighting the Pak invaders. To commemorate the supreme sacrifices of those gallant men, this day is celebrated every year as the Infantry Day. The General Officer Commanding (GOC), Nagrota Corps, Lt. Gen TPS Brar in his special message to the troops commended the professionalism, high degree of motivation, devotion to duty and high morale exhibited by the Infantry men despite heavy odds. He said that the Infantry has done the nation proud and he is confident that they will continue to acquit themselves with the same zeal in fulfillment of their objectives and add further glory to the noble traditions and ethos of this arm of armed forces. |
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Healing
touch is for victims of violence: Sinha Excelsior Correspondent BARAMULLA, Oct 27: Endorsing the healing touch policy of the Coalition Government, Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha today said the healing touch policy is aimed at giving healing touch to the wounds of the injured and it is not for those who inflict wounds on others. Speaking at a function organized by the army here today to commemorate the sacrifices of the soldiers and the people of Kashmir valley given while fighting the enemy in October, 1947, the Governor lauded the role of the troops in safeguarding the honour and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir during the invasion of Pakistani tribesmen. "Today again the army is fighting a proxy war unleashed by the enemy from across the border," he said and added with optimism that the army would come out victorious in its ongoing war against terror. Gen Sinha said although the infiltration is till going on and every day around a dozen people get killed in militancy-related incidents, the measures taken by the army to curb infiltration from across the border have started yielding results. "With the efforts of our troops and installation of latest gadgets along the line of control and international border, we have to a large extent succeeded in curbing infiltration of militants from across the border," he said. Ruling out any unilateral ceasefire during Ramadhan, the Governor, however, said," if the militants stop their actions during the holy month, we can also put our operations on hold." He said unilateral ceasefires only give the militants a breathing period to regroup and reorganize, "which we would not allow them to do." Narrating his experiences of 1947 war in Kashmir, in which he himself participated as an army officer, Gen Sinha said it was a joint effort of the army, air force and the people of Kashmir which saved the valley from the wrath of the tribesmen. He said it was the first major operation of the Indian army after independence and they had to rely on old ammunition and logistics to take on the enemy who had unleashed a reign of terror in the valley. He said even Mahatma Gandhi was perturbed by what was going on in Kashmir at that time and wanted peace to be restored in the valley at any cost. "And when army retrieved Baramulla from the tribesmen, Mahatma complimented the troops," he said. Given the importance of Baramulla in 1947 war, the Governor suggested setting up of a war museum on the town reflecting the memories of the invasion. The Governor paid glowing tributes to Brigadier Rajinder Singh, Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Roy, Maqbool Sherwani and other martyrs who laid down their lives while fighting the invaders. The Governor on this occasion, presented mementos to the civilians and retired soldiers who played a vital role in the 1947 war. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Finance and Planning, Muzaffar Hussain Baig hailed the recent initiative of the Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee aimed at ending Indo-Pak hostilities and restoring long-lasting peace in the subcontinent. He said it is now the duty of the security forces and the Jammu and Kashmir Government to compliment these confidence-building measures by winning over the hearts and minds of the people of the State, who are yearning for peace. "We have to together take upon ourselves the great national task of ending the alienation of the people whose lives have been ravaged by violence and they witness only death and destruction around them every day," he said and added that the army has an added responsibility in this task and they have to fight militancy not as a conventional war against the enemy but have to overcome this great historical challenge with compassion and determination which is in its cultural ethos. Mr Baig called upon the army to uphold the human rights while fighting militancy and try to avoid any trouble to the civilians. "While fighting a war sometimes unfortunately in extreme cases innocent civilians become the target and this results in resentment among the masses, we have to take are that such incidents are avoided," he said and added that while the militants should be dealt with an iron hand, care has to be taken to avoid civilian killings. He said during his interaction with the senior army officers he was impressed by their concern for the common Kashmiris. "When at Dharu, Baramulla an Imam and his son were killed by the army, the then Corps Commander Gen Patankar himself went to the family and apologized for the act of his troops," he said and added this is the attitude which is going to pay the dividends for restoring peace in the State. He said if the army has the iron fist to take on the perpetrators of violence they have a human heart as well. Mr Baig said nobody should misunderstand the healing touch policy as softening of attitude towards the militants. "It is for the victims of the militancy and not for those who unleash terror," he said and added that it is meant to exhaust the breathing space for the militants by ending the alienation of the people and curbing the human rights violations. Mr Baig expressed the hope that with the efforts of the security forces and the people of the State, Jammu and Kashmir would soon witness the return of peace with dignity and honour. The Governor accompanied by Minister for Finance and Planning, Muzaffar Hussain Baig earlier laid wreath at the war memorial at Baramulla. Congress leader, Ghulam Rasool Kar, GoC 15 Corps, Lt Gen Nirbhay Sharma and GOC 19 Division Maj Gen Raj Mehta also addressed the gathering. |
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Nine cases settled in Lok Adalat Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 27: Nine cases were disposed off in a Lok Adalat organised by District Legal Services Authority Kathua under the instructions of Mr J R Kotwal, Chairman, DLSA (District and Sessions Judge Kathua) in the court premises today. The cases were disposed off by conciliation and mediation by the members of the Lok Adalat. Two benches were constituted for settlement of the cases. First bench comprised of Mr J R Kotwal, District and Sessions Judge Kathua, Mr M K Sharma, Sub Judge (CJM) Kathua and Advocate Arvind Gupta. The second batch comprised of Mr Ritesh Dubey, Munsiff, District Mobile Magistrate Kathua and Mrs Rajni Sharma, Munsiff Kathua. Lok Adalat was attended by the members of the Bar, Mr N K Khajuria, District Manager, J&K Bank Kathua, Dr Bhagat, Divisional Manager, DO-1 Oriental Insurance Company Jammu and litigant public. Chairman District Legal Services Authority Mr J R Kotwal impressed upon the participants about the concept and benefits of the Lok Adalat. He appreciated pragmatic and practical approach of the representatives of various institutions and members of the Bar in settlement of the disputes amicably. He also informed the participants and litigants present that next Lok Adalat which was scheduled to be held on November 29 has been pre-poned and shall now be held on November 22. In the end Mr J R Kotwal thanked all the participants for the cooperation extended by them in smooth conduct the Lok Adalat and hoped that such cooperation would be extended by them in future also. |
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Taj lauds Panchayat system for development Excelsior Correspondent Baramulla, Oct 27: The panchayat system is aimed at providing a viable medium for fulfilling the development aspirations of the people. Speaking at a panchayat conference at Boniyar, Uri organised by Rural Development department today, the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution department, Taj Mohi-ud-Din said that by this process the power shall be transferred to elected representatives of the people at the grass root level besides, these institutions have been delegated with the financial powers to fix the priorities of development and to monitor the functioning of other institutions working in their respective areas. The Minister added that this would pave way for peoples involvement in decision making The Minister had an extensive tour of hilly areas of Boniyar and Uri blocks. At Bijhama Higher Secondary School, the Minister inaugurated laboratory block, panchayat ghars at Boniyar and Bijhama constructed at a cost of Rs.21.50 lakhs besides the Minister laid foundation stone of Handicraft Production Centre being constructed on special SGSY scheme at Chandanwari at a cost of Rs. 7.00 lakhs. The Minister later distributed IAY cheques worth Rs. 16.00 lakhs at Uri and Chandanwari for construction of residential houses. |
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Pak exposed before world for abetting terrorism: Gupta Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Union Minister of State for Defence Prof Chaman Lal Gupta has said that nefarious designs of Pakistan of abetting terrorism in J&K will not be allowed to succeed. While addressing border villagers from Chhamb the Union Minister said Indian troops are maintaining high alert in dealing with militancy and the days are not far off when cross border terrorism will be completely eliminated. He launched the role of Indian Army for providing every possible help to the masses of J&K through various Sadhbhavana programmes. He pointed out that people of J&K would ever remain indebted to the Indian Army which came to their rescue in fighting Pak sponsored mercenaries in 1947 when they invaded Kashmir. He reiterated that J&K is an integral part of India and Pakistan has no locus standii on it. He said the Military rulers of Pakistan had always been distorting the ground realities and putting the people of J&K state to sufferings and miseries by indulging in cross border terrorism and other acts of sabotage and subversion. Pakistan will face defeat in the proxy war too, unleashed by it in J&K. The Minister also recalled the sacrifices of Brig Rajinder Singh , the saviour of Kashmir and said that on Oct 27, 1947 the Indian forced landed in Kashmir after signing instrument of Accession by the late Maharaja Hari Singh with India. Prof Gupta said that Central Government has extended the hand of friendship and peace and all separatists should avail of this opportunity and have talks with the Centre to find a solution to the Kashmir issue in peaceful manner. Terrorist should also realize that bloodshed is no solution to any problem. Now the whole world knows that terrorism in India is emanating from Pakistani soil and it is strange that Pakistan is still trying to befool the world community. |
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Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 27: The Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today paid obeisance at the Dargah of Hazrat Baba Payam-ud-Din Reshi, a venerated saint of "Reshiyat cult", situated amidst forests on way to famous tourist spot of Gulmarg- 62 kms from here. He prayed for peace, progress and prosperity of the state and as a mark of respect, the Mujawir of the Dargah performed Dastarbandi to the Chief Minister. The Minister for Tourism, Ghulam Hassan Mir, Chief Executive, Waqf Board, Nayeem Akhtar, Director General Tourism, Saleem Beig and Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Deeraj Gupta and Chief Executive Officer GDA, Farooq Ahmad Shah were also present. The Chief Minister took round of the shrine complex where he inspected various development works undertaken by the Waqf Board to felicitate the devotees thronging across the state round the year. He was informed that the existing facilities comprising of toilets, pathways, dormitories and kitchen for the visiting devotees that were in tatty and shabby condition, have been taken up for construction and renovations. The Management of Waqf Board of the holy shrine has received donations of the order of Rs. 11 lakh upto September ending this year as against barely Rs. 4.56 lakh during the last year. Alone in the past few months since taking over of the management by the Waqf Board, 40 per cent increase in the donations has been recorded when compared with the donations of preceding months. The Chief Minister was informed that focus was being laid on creating common facilities and basic infrastructure for the pilgrims with more emphasis on sanitation and cleanliness as the place lacked this before. Two new sanitary toilet blocks recently have been taken up for construction besides face-lifting and renovation of existing lodging units, which are nearing completion. Similarly, a long pathway in the shrine premises is about to be completed for the convenience of the devotees. The Chief Minister was also informed that a comprehensive beautification plan as a sequel of promotion of pilgrim tourism in Baba Reshi was drawn up with a kitty of Rs. 1.24 crores which envisages development of a park, bus stand and other facilities within and around the shrine premises. A "Bait-ul-Zaireen" consisting of 16 rooms for lodging of such pilgrims who would like to stay for the night, there is shortly being completed at a cost of Rs. 34 lakh. Mr. Sayeed instructed the management of Waqf Board and Gulmarg Development Authority officer to take steps for landscaping of the premises as soon as on-going construction works are completed. He asked them that sanitation and cleanliness aspects need to be given proper attention. Earlier, the Chief Minister took a meeting of officers of Gulmarg Development Authority and Tourism in which he reviewed the implementation of various beautification schemes under Action Plan. A colossal sum of Rs. 1.50 crore has been earmarked for taking up of different works including development of an artificial Lake, Parks, Shopping Arcade, parking place and Golf Course in Gulmarg. He also enquired about the arrangements being made for hosting of National Winter Sports in coming February. |
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Court acquits range officers, forest guard after 19 years Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Special Judge Anti Corruption, M K Hanjura today acquitted two range officers, Triloki Nath Pandita, Mohammed Syed and one Forest Guard, Mohammed Yahya Peer of Social Forestry, Srinagar of the charges of corruption, embezzlement and conspiracy leveled against them in a FIR lodged by Vigilance Organization in 1984. In the 124 page judgment , Mr Hanjura said that under the circumstances the case has not been established against the accused as there was no satisfactory evidence on record to state that the accused did not plant the entire number of one lakh trees. The Court said so for as fabrication of signatures of the Principal Sainik School Mansbal is concerned there is no legal evidence on record to state so. The prosecution version that the receipt was fabricated and did not contain the signatures of the Principal G K Gandhi who was the most important and material witness in the case has not been examined by the prosecution who was the best person to state whether his signatures were genuine or not. The court further said that the case of corruption has taken place in the year 1981-82 while the case has been registered against the accused on October 9, 1984 which means that the instant case is 19 years old. While acquitting the trio of the charges leveled against them, the Special Judge observed, that the right to speedy trial available to the accused has thus been violated in the present case by keeping the fate of the accused hanging for a long period of 19 years. According to the Vigilance FIR the trio during their posting in Social Forestry Ganderbal had misappropriated the money by way of preparing fictious documents for the plantation of trees in Sainik School Mansbal. In the FIR it was also alleged that the Principal Sainik School Mansbal had issued two receipts one of 10,000 plants and other for 40,000 plants. And the accused forged receipts for 60,000 plants and the amount as such was drawn from the treasury. |
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City witnesses worst ever traffic jam Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: City today witnessed worst ever traffic jam. There was virtually chaos and confusion in the city and Traffic cops were looking helplessly to clear the choked roads. Traffic in the city was disrupted today morning when Kalash Yatra was taken out in connection with the on-going Ati Maha Vishnu Yagna. Due to Kalash Yatra traffic was disrupted and some roads were choked. But even after passing of this Yatra, traffic in most parts of the walled city remained jammed and choked. Worst affected areas were Kachi Chowni, Parade Ground, City Chowk, Raghunath Bazar, Jewel Chowk etc. Kalash Yatra passed through interior of the city but traffic movement was affected in almost all parts of the city. Instead of removing jams, cops of Traffic police were seen standing on the road sides allowing the situation to further worsening. Worst suffers of the traffic jam were commuters who were travelling in mini-buses. |
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BJP asks leaders to strive for proposed Jammu bandh on Nov 3 Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: State BJP president Dr Nirmal Singh convened a meeting of State party leaders and district and morcha presidents to discuss measures for making proposed November 3 Bandh and Chakka Jam in Jammu region a grand success. Dr Singh urged the party leaders to work day and night to mobilize public opinion in favour of proposed bandh and paralyse functioning of the State Government on the day of bandh. He also appealed all the trading, social, cultural and literary associations and transport unions to extend their support for the bandh in order to register their protest against the discriminatory policies of the Government. Dr Nirmal Singh said time has come for BJP to strike against the militant-friendly Mufti Government and ensure that national interests in the State are not only protected but also promoted by exposing the misdeeds of the coalition Government. He said plight of Jammu youth, border migrants and refugees from West Pakistan, traders, hoteliers, transporters is very pitiable and that we have to work hard to mitigate their hardships. Only a united action could achieve this, he said. Prominent among those who participated in the meting included Messrs Ashok Khajuria, Bali Bhagat, Prof Hari Om, Jyoti Prakash Sharma, Chander Prakash Ganga, Charanjit Singh Khalsa, Kavinder Gupta, Pawan Gupta, Col Uttam Singh, Chajju Singh, Brij Mohan Sharma, Surekha Choudhary, Hira Lal Chatta, Romesh Arora, Bansi Lal Bharti and Ashwani Bali. |
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MLA Hiranagar visits border areas of his constituency Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: MLA Hiranagar and Chairman of the SC/ST Advisory Board, Girdhari Lal Chalotra conducted an extensive tour of the border areas in his constituency. During the tour, he visited Chakra, Chak Bhaguna, Ganga Chak, Chak Change, Chaan Tanda, Gujra Chak and Mathrachak and met people to listen to their grievances. He also visited Marheen and inaugurated a camp organised by the Ayurvedic Medicines Shahid Bhagat Singh Memorial Committee. He also inaugurated L/D at Changal. During his interaction with people of the border area, the latter apprised their MLA about the problems being faced by them. The main problems of all the villages were scarcity of drinking water, poor power supply and dilapidated condition of roads. Mr Girdhari Lal assured people that all their problems shall be brought into the notice of concerned authorities for a positive action. At Mathurachak, he assured people that Government Primary Schools Mathurachak shall be upgraded to Middle School very soon. Meanwhile, the Congress MLA has strongly condemned the train blast incident at Jatwal and killing of two persons near Hiranagar last night and urged the Government to crush ongoing terrorism in the State with an iron hand. |
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Madr-e-Meharban Institute hopeful of getting recognition for more courses Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Pharmacy Council of India has agreed to visit the Madr-e-Meharban Institute of Health Sciences at the time of examination in Pharmacy for a decision on the institute’s request to recognise it for Diploma in Pharmacy. This was informed by Dr Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, president managing committee of Madr-e-Meharban Institute during his visit to new premises of the institute at Narwal. He told the students that if Pharmacy Council recognises the Diploma , Madr-e-Meharban Institute would be first in the State to get such a recognition. The Diploma holders can seek services anywhere in the country and even abroad. he added. Mustafa Kamaal further disclosed that negotiations were also going on with Advances Studies Institute for Education, Rajasthan for B Sc in Physiotherapy and Diploma in Optometry. He said that Government has extended the NOC in Lab Technology, Pharmacy and Physiotherapy. the courses of disciplines of Nursing including FMPHW and Radiology have also been approved by the Government and the orders for the same are expected to be issued on opening of Darbar at Jammu next month, he added. Dr Mustafa Kamaal was accompanied by Dr R K Raina and Dr Swarn Singh, Director and Joint Director, respectively of the institute. |
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Red Cross volunteers bring laurels to J&K Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: A team of 12 junior Red Cross volunteers including six boys and six girls in the age group of 12-16 have brought laurels to the state in a training- cum-study camp held at Shimla. Selected from Government Educational institutions from Bishnah in district Jammu these volunteers had been sent to the camp under the guidance of Guddi Anand, Sham Dass Choudhary and Sanjeev Gupta —teachers. The team arrived recently after attending seven day camp. The contingent included— Babita Kumari, Neha, Jeetu, Neetu Sharma, Pooja and Meetu Bala from Govt Girls High School Bishnah whereas, Varun, Jagdish, Anchal, Anil, Vijay and Shamji Sharma from Govt Boys School. A total 200 students/ volunteers representing 17 states participated in the camp and the team of J&K actively took part in each event and won many prizes including the most prestigious award in 50 mt race by getting Ist position , II position in exhibition for which the whole team deserved appreciation. |
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Centre allocates Rs 80 cr for rural development Exclsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 27: Announcing that 119 Information Technology Community Centres (ITCC) were being set up in all blocks across the State, the Rural Development Minister, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed said that these ITCC would go a long way in establishing connectivity and e- governance for sharing of information and other statistical data about development activities. Addressing a public meeting at Anantnag yesterday, Peerzada said that the Centre had allocated additional amount of Rs. 80 crore over and above the normal budgetary allocations for execution of various rural development schemes aimed at socio-economic emancipation of the poor rural masses as also generation of employment opportunities for them. He said that Rs. 3 lakh for each panchayat have been earmarked for taking up of public utility works. The Minister said that Panchayat and local body elections in the State were imperative for steering the development process in a balanced way for which elections would be conducted in near future. He appealed people to actively participate in the elections so that their elected representatives could actively involve themselves in running these democratic institutions more effectively and efficiently. Peerzada said that the coalition Government was committed to implement common minimum programme (CMP) and leave no stone unturned to translate it into reality. |
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2 lakh pilgrims likely to visit Jhiri Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Over two lakh pilgrims from within and outside the State are expected to participate in this weeklong Jhiri Mela of its kind this time. In the interest of the pilgrims the divisional administration has banned use of intoxicants and gambling etc during the Mela. This was Stated at a meeting of the concerned officers held here today to discuss and finalize the necessary arrangements of the ensuing Jhiri Mela. The District Development Commissioner, Dr Pawan Kotwal presided. The members of Jhiri Mela committee and Sarpanchs of the area also attended. The officers were asked to be restrictive enough in respect of banned items and their use must not allowed at all during the Mela, the meeting was told. In view of prevailing security scenario, the officers of the Elective department were asked to remain regular about supply of electricity to the Mela site especially during night time. There should be uninterrupted supply of power during the Mela. Officers were advised to keep adequate generators as stand on power arrangement at the site of Mela alongwith sufficient number of floodlights. The meeting was told that the identity card system should be introduced for the workers, volunteers and officers on duty. These cards will be counter signed and attested by the BDO concerned who will be the Mela officer this time. The RTO was asked to ensure deployment of adequate number of pilgrim vehicles to the site of Mela to facilitate the movement of the pilgrims upto the site from Jammu city. The forest officers and the BDO was asked in the meeting to ensure sufficient stock of firewood and raising of toilet facility for the pilgrims the meeting was informed. It was also decided that to avoid any untowards incident at the site, the layout plan of the shops and other establishment during the Mela will be discussed in thread bear with the representatives of the locals departmental and traders who intend to raise their stalls during the Mela. Addressing the meeting, the DDC said that Mela is a good opportunity for those departments and the traders who wish to sell their products and thus could cash the show. Dr Kotwal appealed the femininity that keeping in view sanctity and religious spirit of the Mela drink, drive and dance should not be our endeavour on the occasion neither at could be allowed in any case. |
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Accession Day celebrated at
various places Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Calling upon the misguided youth to shun violence, Minister of Education, Harsh Dev Singh today stressed on the need of spreading message of brotherhood and religious tolerance. Addressing a function organised by the Council for Promotion of Dogri Language, Art and Culture in connection with the celebration of State Accession with Union of India, Education Minister said that religious tolerance is base of Indian culture and it should be further strengthen. He said that misguided youth, who have taken gun, should be educated and informed about religious tolerance. Pointing towards situation in Pakistan, Mr Singh said that what to say of religious tolerance even civil rights are denied in our neighbouring country. He said that those who believed in gun should think what is happening in Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion, president of the Republican Party of India (RPI), Ram Dass Athabllay, Lok Sabha member, who came all the way from Maharashtra to participate in Accession Day celebration, stressed on the need of building pressure on Pakistan to liberate occupied Kashmir. He expressed his satisfaction over peace process being initiated by both the country. Mr Athabllay, who was member of the team of MP which visited Pakistan, said that people of Pakistan want peace but there are some powers who don’t want peace between India and Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion, Panthers Party chief Prof Bhim Singh that he has been saying for decades that October 27 is to people of Jammu and Kashmir what August 15 means for other countrymen. "We were not constitutional part of Bharat on August 15, 1947. They tried to suppress this most important chapter from our history to undermine the historic contributions of Maharaja Hari Singh by signing the Instrument of Accession on October 26, 1947", he reminded, adding, "since October 27, 1947 people of Jammu and Ladakh regions have suffered untold miseries, Himalayan High Wall of discrimination". Prof Singh further stated that the reign of terror is continuing inspite of dozens of judicial verdicts, ordains of the commissions, that of the media and the high probe committees, Jammu has become a playing ground for some of their intriguing games. Prof Ram Nath Shatri, Prof Hari Om and other prominent intellectuals also spoke on the occasion. |
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Haji asks community to remain united Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: The working committee meeting of J&K Gujjar Bakerwal Conference held under the chairmanship of Haji Buland Khan stressed on the community to remain united for all their round development. While addressing the Haji said none will come out to ask you about problems unless "we become united and be able to putforth demands before Government". He said no doubt SRO 126 is there for reservation but the same was not being implemented in letter and spirit. He added that the said SRO has not been made applicable in various Government schemes relating to recruitment, like Rehbar-e-Taleem and Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and stressed that there must be reservation in these also. The Conference general secretary Ch Ghulam Rasool Asghar spoke about various organisational issues and reiterated the Conference demands like political reservation and inclusion of Gojri in the 8th schedule of the constitution of India. Various resolutions were passed in the working committee meeting which among others pertained to permanent settlement of nomadic section of the community, free coaching to students of the community at district level and the like. Others who spoke included MLA Javed Rana, Haji Nizan Din MLC, Advocate Javed Iqbal Chowdhary, Ch Nazir Ahmed, Ch Mohd Younis Chouhan, Dr Abdul Gafoor, Ch Mohd Yaqoob, Ch Saif Ali, Ch Ghulam Mustafa, Ch Mohd Yousif and Ch M Amin Qamar. |
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Diwali gift to children of Primary School Jagti Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Encouraged by the prompt response of NCC Camp Commandant Lt Col Bipan Kumar in undertaking the resuscitation work of the Bowli in ancestral home of Mian Dido, viz village Jagti, the Sarpanch A S Jamwal had requested for renovation of the Primary School building of the village also. The school building was found to be totally neglected, resembling more of a ghost house rather than a school. NCC Camp Commandant immediately accepted the request. And NCC cadets with unbound vigour and enthusiasm, led by NCC Officer Lt Col N C Jamwal, transformed the school building, the playground and surrounding area into a neat, clean and tidy school comparable to any modern school. The NCC Camp Commandant dedicated the efforts of NCC cadets as a Diwali gift to the school children of Jagti village. It may be recalled that NCC cadets had cleaned and renovated an ancient Bowli at village Jagti a few days ago. Muslim Fed discusses Gujjar Nagar issue Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Muslim Federation Jammu in its meeting held under the chairmanship of Mr Abdul Majeed, its president, discussed various issues which were raised by a deputation of Mohalla Gujjar Nagar, specially related to the community and the administration dealing with it. Recently, the meeting noted with concern, Municipal Commissioner Jammu in a TV interview disclosed that JMC was going to change the name of Gujjar Nagar, which was astonishing, said the MF leaders, stating that locality has been established under the very same title. the participants in the meeting raised a number of questions regarding the conspiracy and the political elements behind the authority who disclosed it on media. Participants unanimously condemned such an act and resolved that such conspiracy will not be tolerated at any cost and warned the elements that be behind such move that instead of destructive measures, Municipal Corporation should adopt a constructive approach like shifting of slaughter house, which is a long pending demand because the same falls within the locality Prominent citizens who attended the meeting were Mohd Hussain, Ch Neik Mohd, Javed Ahmed Mir, Master Javed Ahmed, Advocate Whayat Ahmad, Mohd Akbar Khan, Bashir Ahmed and others. Rajouri-Poonch People’s Forum for equitable development Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Oct 27: Rajouri-Poonch People’s Welfare Forum (RPWF) in a meeting organised at Thanna Mandi discussed various issues relating to the welfare of twin border districts. Chief executive of the RPWF Advocate Tahir Khurshid Raina highlighted various efforts of the Forum for the welfare of the region during the past one year and dwelt at length about the problems faced by the people, accusing the Government of under-development of the two districts over the past 50 years and called for equitable development. Hailing the Government for establishment of Baba Ghulam Shah University, the Forum requested it to fulfill other demands like Autonomous Hill Development Council status to Poonch-Rajouri, re-opening of Mughal Road, ST Status for the two districts, special industrial and economic package, rail link and separate Parliamentary constituency for Rajouri-Poonch districts. The speakers requested the people of the two district to come forward unitedly for achieving the demands. Those who spoke on the occasion were Messrs G N Shahbaz, Sardar Mohd Iqbal, Haji Mohd Sayeed Raina, Khurshid Bismal, A R Fida, Abdul Qayoom Raina, Seth Mohd Rafiq, Nazir Ahmed Ganie, Abdul Hamid Raina, Ch Mohd Aziz, Abdul Ghani Shawl, Haji Mohd Maqbool, G N Kamlaq, Haji Latif Thakar, Naiem Gulshan, Mansoor Raina, Altaf Dar and Mohd Khurshid Khan. Sofi lays foundation stone of three bridges Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 27: Minister for Forests and Environmental Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi today laid foundation stone of three foot bridges at Jaggerpora, Baripora Handwara and Wohipora langate, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 87 lakhs, Rs. 48.50 lakhs and Rs. 70 lakhs respectively. All the three-foot bridges would be constructed on Nallha Pohru. Addressing various gatherings on these occasions, Mr. Sofi exhorted that coalition Government is committed to provide road connectivity through out the state, particularly in the rural areas, as it is the basic step for the development of these areas. He recalled the tragic incident that took place on 25th April 2003 at Jaggerpora in which 6 school going children’s are washed away by flood. He said that I have committed on that day that a foot bridge would be constructed with in a shortest possible time to avoid any eventuality in future. The Minister at the occasion lauded the bravery act by Mr. Sonullah Panzoo, who have save 20 school going children at that time. He said that the Government has already sent his case to Central Government for National bravery award. He also paid Rs. 5,000 from his own pocket to this brave man. Mr. Sofi said that the other two-foot bridges viz, Baripora and Whoipora would serve as economic connectivity for these areas, as these areas are habitants of orchid growers. He said this is the long pending demands of these villages as they are facing lot of problems during harvesting time due to non-availability of these bridges. The people of these areas have assured the Minister that they will provide land for approaching road for these two bridges free of cost. Later the Minister inspected the Gamma unit K-06 of Deputy Direct of Forest Protection Force at Nutnussa. He directed the officers to make better coordination among the department to check the menace of smuggling. The Minister was informed that Gamma unit has sized about 3000 cft. timber from January 2003 upto this month. He said that orders would be issued soon for upliftment of this sized stock to the sales depots where it will be purchased among the consumers. The Minister was accompanied with senior officers of district administration. Bhai Ranjeet Singh seeks votes for candidates of Dera Nangali Sahib Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Former Jathedar of Akal Takht Bhai Ranjeet Singh today called upon the Sikh Sangat of the State to elect those candidates for the State Gurudwara Parbandhak Committees who have blessing of Dera Nangali Sahib. Addressing a press conference here today along with Akali leader Sucha Singh Chotaypur, Bhai Ranjeet Singh cautioned the people against nefarious design of those leaders of Punjab who have been launching a vicious campaign in Jammu. "Leaders of Akali Dal (Badal) are already exposed in Punjab", he said and shifted all blames of Akali Dal (Badal) leaders for degradation of Sikhism. He regretted that instead of serving the Sikhism Badal and his party leaders have been exploiting the religion for their political gains. Taking a strong exception of the campaign launched by Sucha Singh Langeh, former Minister of Badal Government and Akali Dal leader, who have been campaign for Akali Dal (Badal) candidates in Jammu, Bhai Ranjeet Singh said that Langeh has no bussines in elections of the Gurudwara Parbhandak Committee of Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to a question Bhai Ranjeet Singh said that they have decided to visit Jammu to frustrate evil designs of Sucha Singh Langeh and other leaders who have been campaigning in support of Akali Dal (Badal) candidates. "We are here to expose Akali Dal (Badal) who have been befooling the people to get political benefits", he said. Sucha Singh Chotaypur, while speaking on the occasion, asked the people to elect those candidates who have blessing of Dera Nangali Sahib. BCWU celebrates Vishwakarma Day at Gandhi Nagar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: Shri Vishwakarma Day was celebrated with traditional gaiety and devotion at Gole Market Gandhi Nagar in which a large number of artisans, masons, carpenters, labourers and other citizens participated. Function started with Pooja and some cultural programmes which was organised by Building and Construction Workers Union, affiliated to INTUC, under the presidentship of Ram Rakha Bangaroo. Deputy Chief Minister Pandit Mangat Ram Sharma was the chief guest on the occasion while guests of honour were Social Welfare Minister Mula Ram, Rural Development Minister Ch Garu Ram, Animal Husbandry Minister Yash Paul Kundal and local MLA Raman Bhalla. Speaking on the occasion Mr Sharma stated that some of the labour laws have already been revised to suit the present day needs of the labour in both private and public sector, which are being issued shortly. He promised that all problems and grievances of labour class would be looked into by the coalition Government. Earlier while addressing Mr Bangaroo highlighted the problems being faced by the labour community, particularly in private sector. Sardar Charanjit Singh, Labour Commissioner and Mr Zargar, Assistant Labour Commissioner summarized various schemes and programmes being framed by the Government for upliftment of the labour. Others present on the occasion were BCWU chairman Harbhajan Singh, Giani Puran Singh, Sardar Natha Singh, S Jassa Singh, Vijay Kumar, president Ravi Dass Sabha, Sham Lal Bassan and Tarsem Lal Khullar. The function ended with a vote of thanks by Mr Daya Ram. Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Oct 27: Coming heavily on Pakistan for violating each norm towards peace process with India and keeping alive cross-border terrorism, the Governor Gen S. K. Sinha (Retd) today said that the results of 1947, 1965, 1971 and Kargil war are clearly lying before Pakistan as an open book in which it had to suffer defeat every time. He asked Pakistan to honour the hand of friendship extended by the Indian Prime Minister to make South East Asia a zone of peace tranquility and development. Speaking at a function organized here in connection with martyrdom day of Brigadier Rajinder Singh the Governor said that this great son of the soil has made a supreme sacrifice while defending the solemnity and integrity of the mother land at the most crucial times of partition of the country. Relating the history of the episode, the Governor said that the sacrifice of Brigadier Singh was of an a historical importance. The Brigadier kept the Pakistani army at bay for about four days in October 1947 and this was the decisive time for the Maharaja of the State and the Government of India to send the Indian army to Kashmir for giving befitting reply to the aggressors from Pakistan. Gen Sinha while lauding the sacrifice of Brigadier Rajinder Singh said that those were the days when the army was not equipped with the latest modern technology and even the airport at Srinagar did not have a proper landing site as it was full of grass. The decotas bringing security forces from Delhi to Srinagar had also to face difficulty in reaching the Valley. But the missionary zeal and spirit of patriotism in jawans and officers made every thing possible. Remembering the days of October 1947 Gen Sinha said that he could not personally meet the great Brigadier as the later had sacrifices himself while fighting bravely against the Pakistani troops near Uri but had heard everything about Brigadier’s super strategy of war in which he used a small number of soldiers to fight against manifold more enemy. Gen Sinha said that the true homage to Brigadier Rajinder Singh is to get inspiration from his achievements. He eulogized the people of the region to have given birth to such a great son of the soil. He said not only this great hero but even General Zorawar Singh should also be remembered with a mounted zeal and devotion. In this regard he suggested to erect a memorial in the memory of General Zorawar Singh. Major General Rajinder Singh, GOC-26 Infantry Division while paying his glowing tributes to Brigadier Rajinder Singh said that gallantry and chivalry is the traditions of the Indian army which the jawans and the commanders have to observe at any cost while defending the integrity and solidarity of the motherland. He said that the army has taken up a project to further beautify the entire village to which Brigadier Rajinder Singh belonged. For an Indian solider the integrity of the country is most important, he added. The Vice Chancellor of the Jammu University, Prof. Amitabh Mattoo while paying his tributes said that the University has already set up an auditorium in the name of great solider as a mark of his supreme contribution to the nation. He said the University is contemplating to open a library in the native village of the great martyr. The Joint Secretary of the Memorial Trust, Mr. K. K. Duggal while giving a detailed resume of life and achievements of Brigadier Rajinder Singh said that born in a village of Baguna in Samba tehsil of Jammu district in the home of Subedar Lakha Singh on 14th June 1899, Mr. Singh graduated from Prince of Vales College of Jammu. He said that Brigadier Singh is rightly known as the saviour of Kashmir as he made supreme sacrifices while fighting the enemy with a superb military strategy. Mr. Gulchain Singh Charak and Retd. Maj. General G. S. Jamwal also paid the glowing tributes to Brigadier Rajinder Singh. The welcome address was delivered by Brigadier M. S. Tullo, President JIEEL, Kashmir Division. The children of Fouji Public School, Rajinder Vihar presented patriotic song. Ghulam Mohammad and party presented war music ‘baran’. The students of Karan Nagar Welfare Society also presented a patriotic song. The daughter of Brigadier Rajinder Singh, Mrs. Urushi Pathinia was also present on the occasion. Earlier, floral tributes were also paid to the statue of Brigadier Rajinder Singh. This statue has been installed in a chowk situated below Civil Secretariat Jammu. The function among others was also attended by prominent citizens, ex-servicemen league, students and teachers of different schools and colleges. The queen of battle celebrates Infantry Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 27: 27th October is one of the most historic days for the Indian Army, as on this day in 1947, the Army of independent India undertook its first military operation in J&K and prevented Pak raiders from capturing the Kashmir valley. Infantry Day is celebrated to commemorate this glorious action of Indian Infantry post independence era. Tiger Division celebrated the Infantry Day with paying of tributes to the brave soldiers who fought gallantly and made the supreme sacrifice, while defending the unity and integrity of the country. At the J&K War Memorial at Jammu, the serving and retired soldiers paid homage to the brave soldiers who laid their life for the country. The ceremony began with General Officer Commanding of the Tiger Division, laying wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti followed by other serving and retired officers. The ceremony was conducted meticulously and it revived the memories of the supreme sacrifice of 4076 gallant soldiers, who valiantly fought the Pak raiders in 1947 J&K conflict. The Infantryman has come a long way since then and his fearless gallantry, dedication and devotion to duty has made the entire nation proud. Be it Siachin Glacier or the burning deserts of Rajasthan or dense Jungles of North East, the Infantryman has defended the nation's territorial integrity and won accolade from all. |
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