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| Govt to remove teachers' pay anomaly Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Aug 12: The Government would seriously consider removing the existing pay anomaly in case of teachers in Government schools......more Veeri
reviews law & order Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: Minister of State for Home, Abdul Rehman Veeri in a meeting of the Police officers held here today reviewed law and order situation.........more People
enter into scuffle Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A group of persons today made abortive attempt to prevent Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) from removing encroachment from the graveyard in Bagh-e-Babu area and entered into scuffle with municipal staff...........more Cong
hell bent to purchase MLAs: Bhim Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: The working committee of the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) has issued one line whip to its legislators to oppose and defeat the Women Disqualification Bill when it is presented in the State Assembly and Council session beginning from August 18.....more Bihari
youth nabbed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A youth hailing from Bihar was captured by the Border Security Force men when he was trying to cross over to Pakistan from...........more |
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2.8
lakh Cellone connections to be given in 2nd phase By Mohinder Verma JAMMU, Aug 12: Here is a good news for those who cannot afford Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s Cellone mobile Service. The BSNL has a plan to cater to such subscribers who have a limited budget. It will start Wireless in Local Loop (WLL) service with roaming facility on the pattern of Reliance in Jammu and Kashmir from March next year............more ‘Implement
SC order NEW DELHI, Aug 12: The All India Medical and Engineering Colleges Association has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to allow the private self-financing engineering colleges in the state to take 50 of the students under the management quota as directed by the Supreme Court..............more Music
programme Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A colourful programme of music and dance showcasing rich cultural mosaic of the nation was presented in connection with Independence Day celebrations, here today..................more Seven KAS
officers posted Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: The State Government has posted seven KAS Officers in the Social Welfare Department......more |
Govt to remove teachers' pay anomaly Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Aug 12: The Government would seriously consider removing the existing pay anomaly in case of teachers in Government schools. Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed gave this assurance to a delegation of J&K Teachers’ Forum that called on him here this morning to apprise him about the anomaly and requested for its early removal. The Forum was led by its President, Abdul Qayoom. Minister of State for Education, Dr. Ghulam Nabi Lone, Secretary, Education, Mohammad Manzoor Bhat and Director, School Education, Kashmir, G. A. Peer were present. The Chief Minister inquired about the improvement in the education sector particularly following the revolutionary steps taken by the Government to streamline and improve the system in the State. He was told that the improvement has been acknowledged by the Central Government also. The Union Secretary, Secondary and Elementary Education, B. S. Baswan after his recent visit to the State told reporters in New Delhi that there was resurgence in the education sector in Jammu and Kashmir despite militancy. He rated the State next only to Tamil Nadu in education and commended the State government’s efforts as extremely encouraging, the Chief Minister was informed. The Chief minister was also informed that a leading international software company will provide about 500 computers to Jammu and Kashmir Government for supplementing its effort to improve computer education in schools. To a query by the Chief Minister about the impact of nursery classes introduced in the Government schools, it was said that in many cases students of private schools were migrating to Government schools after the parents saw the qualitative improvement in education in Government schools. The Chief Minister inquired about sports activities in educational institutions and also called for introduction of brief chapter on Kashmir history in the curriculum. He also asked the education department to fix a cut off percentage for admission in +2 schools particularly in science and commerce subjects emphasising on the self-sustainability of the education system in the State. The Chief Minister also stressed on continuous training programme for teachers to acquaint them with the modern trends in teaching. On the pattern of DPS, he suggested conducting of training programme by the Board of School Education. To appreciate and address the problems of the teachers community and those relating to the improvement in quality of education and management of schools Teachers’ Day would be celebrated on September 18, 2004 during which State and zone awards would be given to best teachers. A Lecturers’ Workshop would also be held to discuss quality of education at higher secondary level besides the Principals’ Conference taking stock of problems of management of Government and private schools. |
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Veeri reviews law & order situation in Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: Minister of State for Home, Abdul Rehman Veeri in a meeting of the Police officers held here today reviewed law and order situation in Jammu division. Inspector General of Police Jammu Zone, P L Gupta briefed the minister about the situation on the anti-militancy front, law and order and crime in various districts of Jammu zone. He also apprised him of the situation in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch and also in the interiors of district Doda with special reference to the role of VDCs, SPOs and other policemen. Mr Veeri was also briefed about the situation in Jammu city and security and police bandobust made for the on going Shri Amarnath yatra and the forthcoming Independence day functions. The IG also informed about the good work done by the Jammu police in prevention of and detection of crime. The minister exhorted the police officers to maintain a high degree of alertness and vigilance to ensure that the Independence day functions as also the Amarnathji yatra pass off peacefully. Among others who were present in the meeting included DIG Police Jammu-Kathua Range Farooq Ahmed and SSP Jammu, Kamal Saini. |
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People enter into scuffle with JMC employees Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A group of persons today made abortive attempt to prevent Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) from removing encroachment from the graveyard in Bagh-e-Babu area and entered into scuffle with municipal staff. Police spokesman said that on the receipt of a complaint from some locals about encroachment on the land of graveyard a team of JMC led by Executive Officer D R Kapoor swung into action and started razing the boundary wall raised on the graveyard land by one Abdul Gani. When the demolition operation was going on, a group of persons attempted to stop JMC team from executing the work and even entered into scuffle. However, a police team from Bagh-e-Bahu immediately reached the spot and foiled the attempts to prevent JMC from removing encroachment. The majority of the people living in the area have appreciated JMC efforts for removing encroachment from the grave-yard. Meanwhile, Mohalla Welfare Committee, Shahabad, Gujjar Basti, Bahu Fort appreciated the removal of encroachment from the graveyard land. President of the Committee Bagh Ali said that all this become possible due to the intervention of Deputy Commissioner Jammu Dr Pawan Kotwal. |
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Cong
hell bent to purchase MLAs: Bhim Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: The working committee of the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) has issued one line whip to its legislators to oppose and defeat the Women Disqualification Bill when it is presented in the State Assembly and Council session beginning from August 18. Disclosing this to media-persons, supremo of the party and Member Legislative Council Prof Bhim Singh said that the whip was issued at an emergency meeting of the working committee held last evening. "We are totally against this Bill because it is anti-civilisation, anti-women, anti-human and against the tenet of Islamic and Hindu law besides being an infringement on basic and fundamental rights of the women", he said. He further said the working committee has directed the legislators of the party to remain in the house the day Bill is brought for consideration and passing. "Necessary directions have been passed to the party legislators that under no circumstances they will stage a walk-out even if the Congress and PDP legislators try to play that trick", he added. The working committee, Prof Singh said, has also directed its legislators to pressurise the Government to adopt the central law to limit 15 percent ministers out of the total strength of the two houses or adopt 4:1 formula devised by party supremo. The committee has also demanded that JKNPP should also be given chance to head the Government according to Common Minimum Programme. Alleging that Congress has ‘purchased’ six MLAs under a well-planned conspiracy, Prof Singh said that JKNPP has moved a motion before the Speaker Legislative Assembly seeking disqualifiation of these MLAs under Schedule 7, Para-2 and Sub-Section-2 of the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. "In case Speaker don’t take any action in this regard we will knock the door of High Court", he warned. To a question, he said that Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet too have tainted ministers and demanded a white paper in this regard. "There is a need to ascertain as to how many ministers have to pay the Government money and how much FIRs have been lodged against them so far", he stressed. |
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Bihari youth nabbed crossing over to Pak Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A youth hailing from Bihar was captured by the Border Security Force men when he was trying to cross over to Pakistan from Manguchak area of Samba sector last night. Identified as, Salim, son of a Riksha puller from Matiyari, under the jurisdiction of Ratmahal Police Station of district Sahibganj in Bihari, the youth was nabbed at around 11 pm on Wednesday near the barbed wire fencing near Manguchak BSF post. A BSF patrol of 43 battalion, noticed some movement and captured the exfiltrator at gun point. He was later taken to nearby BSF post. Nothing incriminating was recovered from his possession. However, some Indian currency was found in his pocket. During preliminary interrogation, Salim disclosed that he belonged to a very poor family and his father was a riksha puller at Sahibganj in Bihar. He said his father had sent him to Mumbai to get some job and support family. But as he failed to get a job in Mumbai after long struggle he decided to go to Pakistan by crossing border from Jammu area. So, he boarded a Jammu bound train and reached here. After inquiring about the border area from the locals, he reached here and was trying to cross over to that side but failed to manage due to fencing. The youth was later handed over to Border police and may be sent to Joint Interrogation Centre. |
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2.8 lakh Cellone
connections to be given in 2nd phase By Mohinder Verma JAMMU, Aug 12: Here is a good news for those who cannot afford Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s Cellone mobile Service. The BSNL has a plan to cater to such subscribers who have a limited budget. It will start Wireless in Local Loop (WLL) service with roaming facility on the pattern of Reliance in Jammu and Kashmir from March next year. The BSNL’s investment of crores of rupees for WLL service in Jammu and five other stations of Bari Brahmana, Akhnoor, Basohli, Kathua and R S Pura could not click due to its poor performance owing to outdated technology. To upgrade it, the Nigam mooted a plan to start switch based service—WLL with roaming facility to connect more people and bring them in its fold. Highly placed sources in BSNL said that the WLL service with roaming facility would compete Cellone because in switch based service the customers would not face problems like "out of reach and low signal", which they were presently confronting with. Further, WLL with roaming facility will be cheaper than GSM Mobile", the sources added. "The plan has already been finalised by the BSNL headquarters and process of placing orders would start soon as in Jammu, the switch-based service is expected to be launched from March, 2005", the sources disclosed, adding that in Jammu and Kathua districts, about 19500 connections would be given in first phase. The switch-based service is based on advance technology and doesn’t require too much of towers. For 19500 connections in two districts, there will be just 33 towers, the sources said, adding that this new service will be as good as Cellone mobile service or any other private mobile service. At present, BSNL has about 3400 WLL connections in Jammu Urban and 1500 in Jammu Rural comprising Bari Brahmana, Akhnoor, Basohli, Kathua and R S Pura. "Subscribers possessing WLL connections at present need not to worry as the existing WLLs would be converted into switch-based service to make them roaming", the sources said. About the Cellone connections, the sources said that in the second phase from January next year, additional 2.8 lakh connections would be given throughout the State that too by providing more linkage. After completing first phase, the BSNL authorities would start installing towers in the areas where the connections would be given in second phase. Moreover, efforts would be made in the second phase to provide connections in the uncovered areas. |
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‘Implement SC order on
admissions in J&K NEW DELHI, Aug 12: The All India Medical and Engineering Colleges Association has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to allow the private self-financing engineering colleges in the state to take 50 of the students under the management quota as directed by the Supreme Court. Jammu and Kashmir was one of the few states, which had not implemented the apex court order, Association president T D Naidu said. The colleges in the state had a good response from the students this year and implementation of the court order would brighten the prospects further, he said. (UNI) |
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Music programme showcases nation’s cultural mosaic Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A colourful programme of music and dance showcasing rich cultural mosaic of the nation was presented in connection with Independence Day celebrations, here today. Organised by Radio Kashmir Jammu and Song & Drama Division, the programme was a major collaborative effort in which both the central departments of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, have come together after a long time to highlight the composite cultural and artistic heritage of the country. Toady’s programme presented by the regular artistes of the Songs and Drama Division, along with casual artists booked for the occasion and Radio Kashmir acting mainly as a facilitator, started with Dogri folk dance. The rhythmic slow steps, coupled with melodious lyrics, set the tone for the musical evening. The item that followed included a patriotic group song, Punjabi song by Kanta Sharma, Kashmiri folk dance, Rouf, and again a Punjabi duet by Usha Handoo and Neelam. Presenting a peep into the colurful folk dance tradition of nomad tribes of Andhra Pradesh, the Lambari dance was the next item which followed was a competent recital of qawalli in praise of Garib Nawaz, Khawaja Mohi-ud-Din Chishti, Ajmer Wale. Sung by Vijay Malla & party, the recital recreated the magic of Sufiana alam and brought to fore the composite spiritual legacy of the country. The colours of Maharashtra and Rajasthan were splashed through Lavani and Dal-badli folk dances. The programme attended by a full house was enjoyed and appreciated by audience. |
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Seven KAS officers posted in Social Welfare Department Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: The State Government has posted seven KAS Officers in the Social Welfare Department. Consequent upon these adjustments the Government has also issued the transfer and adjustment orders of 12 KAS officers in various departments. The KAS Officers who have been adjusted in the Social Welfare Department include Suraj Parkash Gupta, Mrs Sheela Bhagat, Mohammed Masood Bhat, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, Syed Anwar, Showkat Ahmed Dar and Kuldeep Singh. In addition to this, the Government has transferred Altaf Hussian, Deputy Secretary PDD and posted him as Special Officer Auqaf .Ghulam Hussian Mir, Special Officer Auqaf has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to Revenue Department. Ms Vijay Kumari has been posted as Deputy Secretary to Industries and Commerce Department, while Kachoo Nissar Ali has been posted as Deputy Director Employment, Kargil. Mohammed Hafeez has been posted as Assistant Commissioner Poonch, while B L Bhat has been posted as Deputy Secretary to Revenue Department. Ajay Singh Jamwal has been posted as Deputy Secretary to Home Department and Arif Ullah has been posted as Personnel Officer in the office of Director School Education, Kashmir. Shabir Hussian has been posted as Deputy Secretary to PDD, while Ghulam Rasool has been posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate Zanaskar. Gulzar Hussian has been posted as General Manager DIC Kargil and R L Vishen has been posted as Deputy Secretary Rural Development Department. |
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MBBS paper leakage scam Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: In a much publicized leakage of question papers of entrance examination, Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu Kartar Singh has granted bail to Kuldeep Salwan, a resident of 151-Model Town in Sonipat, Haryana, who was working in the printing press where the question papers were printed, with the directions that the petitioner is admitted to bail on furnishing bail bond and personal bond of the amount of Rs 25000. The accused was, however, directed to attend the investigation as and when required. While granting bail to the accused, the Judge after hearing Sindhu Sharma, Advocate appearing for the petitioner and Senior Prosecuting Officer appearing for the Crime Branch, observed that the investigating agency issued notice to the accused directing him to make available himself at Srinagar for recording his statements. Apprehending his arrest, he approached the High Court for pre-arrest bail in which the State filed objections through Advocate General and admitted that the presence of the petitioner was required only to record his statements as a witness and he would not be arrested. The High Court disposed off this bail application vide Order Dated February 13, 2004 by observing that in support of the averments made in the objections B S Slathia, Additional Adovcate General made a statement at the bar that the petitioner is not an accused in the case no investigating agency ever intended to effect his arrest but his attendance is being secured as a witness in the case. According to the police report which indicates that a case under Section 420/120-B RPC read with Section 5(2) PC Act has been registered against the petitioner. He was arrested on August 4, 2004. SPO for the Crime Branch has stated that the police report be treated as objections. The court further said that persued the police report carefully from perusal it appears that the petitioner is in the custody since August 4, 2004 and the only allegation against him is that during the course of interrogation he admitted that he and Vijay Kohli the owner of the Vishal Art Printers New Delhi, where the question papers were being printed used to supply papers to the Controller of Examination, Board of Professional Entrance and as per the police report he was the competent to do so. The police is further reported that the investigation is still in progress. Subsequent times have been issued to the IO to interrogate the petitioner and his liberty cannot be curtailed anymore because nothing is to be recovered from him and his custodial interrogation is almost complete. The other accused have already been admitted to bail in this case and there is not necessity to keep the petitioner in custody. With these observations, Kartar Singh, Special Judge Anti-Corruption granted bail to the accused to the amount of Rs 25000. |
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Samaj Kalyan Kendra to launch its website soon Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: The premier voluntary organisation, J&K Samaj Kalyan Kendra devoted to cause of social welfare and service to disabled, is shortly launching a website to highlight its programmes as well as activivites and achievements. Stating this, Inderjeet Khajuria, president, J&K Samaj Kalyan Kendra, in an interview told EXCELSIOR, here today that the people will have easy and wider assess to this NGO and avail of its services or participate in its programmes. The Kendra has, under vocational education scheme of Human Resource Development ministry taken up 6-month training programme in computers, motor and transformers winding as also tailoring and embroidery courses. Only disabled persons are admitted to these courses and provided a stipend of Rs 650 p.m. during the training period, he informed. As part of vocational oriented education, training in printing technology and other trades are also being offered. Referring to special school for deaf anb dumb, run by the Kendra for the past over 20 years, Mr Khajuria said 60 such boys and girls with diability are receiving formal education upto 10th class, which is recognised by the J&K Board of School Education. Questioned about the teaching methodology, Roshan Bhan, Principal of the school, said through speech therapy and sign language suitably trained staff are performing this difficult job well. Specialised equipment is available in the institution. The Samaj Kalayan Kendra has proposal to start phyio-therapy clinic after arranging finances for the purpose. A neuro-therapy and orthopaedic workshop are already functioning. Explaining about the difficulties, the president said that a piece of land at Sidhra was promised to the Kendra and though payment for it was made to JDA but no action seem to been taken so far. The land, he stressed is urgently required for construction of Kendra complex and hostel for disabled and disadvantaged students, said Mr Khajuria. A plea was made that the school for deaf and dumb should be given liberal grant-in-aid by the Education Department, on the pattern of any other private education instittions in the State. He praised the entire team of the Kendra for creditable work being done. |
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All J&K Christian Forum elects body for Jourian Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: A grand function was organised by Christian community at Jourian, block Khour in Akhnoor tehsil in which Markes Gill, State president of All Jammu and Kashmir Christian Forum was the chief guest who was welcomed with garlands. In the meeting, need was felt about nomination of president-cum-Choudhary of the Biradari for village Jourian, block Khour and accordingly Babu Masih was unanimously elected as president/Choudhary of community for Jourian. Mr Markes Gill put turben on the head of the newly elected Choudhary. While addressing Markes Gill said election of Choudhary was for the benefit of the Biradari, so that their problems could be taken up with authorities concerned by the president for getting these redressed. He appealed the Biradari members to remain united to become force so that the problems if any of the community could be projected to the proper fora. Office bearers elected to assist Jourian Choudhary Babu Masih included Dana Masih as vice president, Nickles Chouhan as general secretary, Justin Sotra as joint secretary, Sadiq Masih as treasurer/cashier and Yauqub Masih and Sharief Masih as advisors. The guests of honour included Sardar Gill and Sagar Gill from R S Pura, Raval John Bhatti, president block Akhnoor, Sohan Matto, Choudhary Block Marh, Yaqub Bhatti, president Satwari block, Yousuf Sandhu, president All J&K Christian Forum Bishnah, Darshan Masih, Anil Gill, Victor, Adwin Khokhar, Waryam Teji, Romesh Chander, Sonu Bhatti, Viney Sotra, Asif Teji, Mohan Masih, Sagar Bhatti, Raju Sotra, Joual Teji, Aizale Bhatti and Manga Masih. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: United Forum of Bank Unions, J&K, held a day long dharna at Bahu Plaza against evasive attitude of Indian Banks Association for early wage revision for bank employees and officers which is due from November 2002. Before sitting on dharna in front of State Bank of India Zonal Office, Bahu Plaza, a massive demonstration was held opposing IBA and UPA Government for delaying the wage revision of bank employees who are working tirelessly for the enlarging of bank profits. Despite all reasonable efforts to convince the IBA for expediting the wage settlement, nothing tangible was achieved from the IBA, alleged Varinder Bhat, Deputy General Secretary of State bank of India Officers Association J&K Circle. To protest against the continued rigid and inflexible approach of IBA, the employees and officers of entire banking industry would observe one day strike on August 24, declared R K Dhar, general secretary National Confederation of Bank Employees, J&K State. He also warned IBA for further indefinite strike action if wiser sense did not prevail upon IBA to avert the deteriorating industrial relations in the banking industry as Bank employees want a fair and reasonable wage settlement, which was due for the last 20 months. A K Johar, state secretary AIBOC also spoke on the occasion. |
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FFAA flays Govt for repealing POTA Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: J&K Far Flung Area Association (FFAA) in its meeting under the chairmanship of Dhani Ram Shastri flayed the UPA Government for repealing of POTA, when there was dire need of strengthening of the same to make the law more effective. The meeting through resolutions demanded immediate increase in the wages of SPOs, VDC members, ReTs, contractual and part time workers etc. Association president Mohinder Singh Thakur while addressing flayed the Government for taking pains to rehabilitate the ultras, who once had created terror and now have surrendered to the Government by way of providing them sustenance allowance of Rs 2000 besides depositing Rs 1.5 lakh in their personal accounts. Association held that there was no guarantee of surrendered militants re-joining the terrorist activities, while those serving the national cause stand neglected and ignored by the Government. The meeting also took strong note of senior bureaucrat from the State Wajahat Habib Ullah for his anti-national utterances abroad thereby putting a question mark on the security forces and other security agencies. |
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Disability camp organised at Bhadarwah Excelsior Correspondent DODA, Aug 12: A medical camp, first of its kind in Doda district, was organized by Department of Health at Bhadarwah yesterday. People with different kinds of disabilities were examined by a board of doctors and certificates were issued to them in presence of Chief Medical Officer, Doda, Dr Shahid Mughal. Deviating from its earlier practice where disabled people were brought to District Hospital Doda on specified days for examination by doctors, the health department in a well-coordinated activity organised a camp at Bhadarwah. The public was informed about the camp well in advance to bring their disabled members of family to Bhadarwah from the entire block for the purpose. This effort has removed the huge difficulties posed to the relatives of the disabled people, who had to carry them all the way to Doda for the examination by specialists. Keeping in view the enormous problems faced by the public, the camp organized at Bhadarwah was a great success. A total of 500 disabled persons from the entire Bhaderwah block attended the camp and were examined by a team of doctors including orthopedic surgeon, ophthalmologist, B.M.O Bhadarwah and Chief Medical Officer Doda. More than 200 disabled persons were issued disability certificates on the spot for scholarship and other kinds of relief by the social welfare department. Two officials Imtiaz Nehru and Surinder Singh have been playing a key role in mobilizing the people to attend medical camps at different places in the district. The public of the district have appreciated this step taken by the health department to ameliorate their suffering vis-à-vis the examination and issuance of certificates to the disabled persons. Cook’s bid to curtail Wazwan menu From Shafaat Ahmad Kira Srinagar, Aug 12: Habib-ullah Kawa , a Kashmiri Waza (cook) by profession should have been a happy man today-but a ban imposed on him by his fellow workers to work has left him in a sad state of affairs. Habib-ullah, who had negated his communities dictum of restricting the number of delicacies during marriages has been made to pay a heavy price for not obeying the rules framed by the Anjuman-a-Ashpazan,an organisation of cooks working to curtail extravagant spending on traditional Wazwan during marriages. According to the Anjuman-cooking an unlimited number has led to lavish spending which has created social imbalances in the society. "Wazwan is our part of the Kashmiri identity which we are so proud of. But, now Wazwan is used as a tool to show off wealth, which started to create problems for those members of the society who could not spend lakhs of Rupees. That is why we stepped in and came forward to rid our society of the evils, which have crept-in, in the name of Wazwan," says Ghulam Nabi, Chief of the Anjuman. Lavish spending apart Wazwan a traditional combination of delicacies of rich mutton-based feast is famous all over the world. The wazwan comprises of 20 or more specially prepared delicacies. The Government in May this year tried to enforce Guest Control Order of the essential commodities Act to limit the extravaganza spending during marriage ceremonies by curtailing the amount of mutton cooked to just 60 kilograms. But, the severe resentment within and outside the Government halted its implementation. The traditional Kashmiri chefs stepped in here, and instead of Guest Control as envisaged in the Government Act, they proposed for dish control. They declared that they would prepare a maximum of seven dishes. Incidentally, the move evoked a favorable response from the common people, who deem it more acceptable than the Governments "failed" guest control. "It is a welcome step. Wazwan has become such an extravaganza that even those with animal like appetite could not eat all the servings," says Wali Mohammed, a retired schoolteacher who has seen Wazwan in its simplest of forms during his childhood. "The present form of Wazwan is a mere wastage of money. How can you imagine a man taking nearly two kilograms of meat during a Wazwan," he says. Adding that the hosts as well as the cooks were not able to keep count of the dishes served during the Wazwan. "We have made a beginning and hope to bring the Wazwan to what it was in the past. Wazwan was cooked to mark the auspicious ceremonies like marriages but, it has now turned into a social evil with as many as 35 to 40 dishes making their entry in the menu," says Abdul Rashid another activist of the Anjuman. The Anjuman in order to enforce its dictum has formed squads to check whether its rules are being followed in letter and sprit. Besides, the squads have been authorised to charge a fine of Rupees 10,000 from those cooks who are seen voilating the rule of cooking more than seven mutton preparations. Those members of the Anjuman who voilate the dictum also face social boycott from its community members in addition to a ban on working for an unlimited period of time. Curtailing the lavish spending on marriage ceremonies in not a new experience to the Kashmiri society,as the Government too has tried its hand to curtail the spending- which not only leaves the host bankrupt but, generates hundereds of kilograms of garbage. Even in hygienic sense, the Wazwan is cursed as "injurious". "We are already reeling under a situation where high blood pressure, cholesterol level and other psychosomatic diseases", says Dr Ashfaq Ahmad. "Wazwan is only adding to these ailments", he adds. Kashmiri Wazwan has during the last few years witnessed increase in the number of dishes being cooked. As a result of this, mutton worth Rupees 30 Crore is annually imported from various States solely for marriages.This is in addition to annual consumption of mutton worth Rupees 100 crore being consumption in the Valley. |
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DIG Doda visits Warwan as part
of mass Excelsior Correspondent DODA, Aug 12: As a part of mass contact programme, DIG Udhampur-Doda Range Satvir Gupta today visited remotest and inasscessible corner of the Doda district—Warwan and held meeting with the civilians. During the course of interaction, the public appreciated the efforts of the Police in maintaining law and order besides curbing militancy and mitigating the sufferings of the common masses. Highlighting their grievances, the people alleged shortage of ration in Warwan and said that due to non-availability of the teachers in the area the students have been facing difficulties in getting education. After giving patient hearing to the demands of the people, the DIG assured that he would bring their grievances into the notice of concerned departments for necessary action. The people were advised to cooperate with the police and civil administration to ensure peace and development in the area. The people assured full cooperation to the administration in all fields. After the mass contact meeting and listening to the grievances of the common masses, the DIG reviewed the existing security scenario and passed necessary instructions relating to the security measures. He stressed upon the officers of Police, para-military forces and army to maintain close relation with each other and collectively launch combing operations in the area to flush out militants. He said that all necessary security arrangements be made to ensure incident free Independence Day celebrations. |
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2 members for SHRC recommended Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Aug 12: The Committee provided under the J&K Protection of Human Rights Act met here today to finalise and recommend to the Governor the names for filling two vacancies of members in the State Human Rights Commission. The vacancies were caused due to the retirement of Mohinder Singh and G. Q. Mughal. The meeting was presided by the Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed while Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma, Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Tara Chand, Minister for Law, Parliamentary Affairs and Finance, Muzaffar Hussain Beig, Chairman, State Human Rights Commission, Justice (retd) A. M. Mir and Commissioner/Secretary Law, A. H. Kochak were present. Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Abdul Qayoom could not attend due to indisposition. The Committee decided to forward two names to the Governor for appointment as members of the Commission. The State Human Rights Commission was constituted under an Act of the Legislature in 1997 with a Chairman and four members. The two exiting members include Qazi Muzaffar Ahmad and G. M. Mir, both retired district and sessions judges. Mohinder Singh and G. Q. Mughal belonged to Jammu division Meanwhile, the Committee provided under the Accountability Act would meet here on August 17 to recommend to the Governor a name for appointment as the Chairman of the Accountability Commission. The committee comprises the Chief Minister, Chief Justice of the State High Court, Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Minister for Law and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lower House of the State Legislature. The Commission came into effect under an Act of the Legislature on January 25, 2003 Qazi inaugurates craft willow wicker training centre Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Aug 12: As part of the programme launched by State/Central Government for upliftment of socio-economic profile of rural women, a craft willow wicker training centre was inaugurated by Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Qazi Mohammad Afzal at Hakim Gund in Ganderbal tehsil today. Vice Chancellor Kashmir, University Prof. Abdul Wahid senior faculty members of the University, local officers and prominent citizens were present on the opening ceremony. The Centre being run by bio-technology unit of Science and Technology Department in collaboration with Kashmir University would provide training of Willow Wicker Production to the candidates and in the first instance Rs 24 lakh have been provided as a grant by the State and Central Government. In his inaugural address, the Minister enumerated the steps taken for upliftment of socio-economic conditions of rural women folk, appreciated the efforts of project authority of Kashmir University for setting up of such craft Centres in rural areas. He hoped that the authorities would identified such needy areas where these Centre would remain vital for supplementing the income of weaker sections of the society. Earlier, the project officer of Kashmir University Prof. Abid Hussain explained aims and objective of launching such schemes and said that the craft centre in the first instance would provide training to 30 needy and deserving girls identified in the area. He said apart from monthly stipend of Rs 1,000 each, the trainees would be made conversant of the willow wicker craft so that after completion of one year training the girls can set up their own income generating units. Later, the Minister inspected the newly created degree college and took stock of the ongoing construction of various college buildings. The degree college building is coming up at an estimated cost of Rs. 5 crore. UTI Bank opens third offsite ATM at Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: UTI Bank, the first new generation private sector bank of the country has opened its third offsite ATM at Jammu today. Col A K Singh , Commanding Officer, 526 ASC Battalion inaugurated the Bank’s ATM at 7 JDA Complex , New Plots. Speaking on the occasion , Ajay Kaistha, Branch Head, UTI Bank Jammu said, "this marks another step towards the extensive consumer banking focus that we are providing across the country and reinforces our commitment to bring superior banking services, marked by convenience and closeness to consumers in Jammu." The newly inaugurated ATM is well versed with all the facilities of cheque, cash deposit, payment for utility services and premiums of LIC policies and transfers etc. Mr Kaistha said the Bank has 2.5 million customers and deposits of over 20,000 crores and advances of Rs 10,000 crores as on March 31 this year. Mega shopping complex coming up at Anantnag Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Aug 12 : The first mega shopping-cum-commercial complex designed on the pattern of metropolitan city would be raised at Anantnag on the available space of State Road Transport Corporation yard. The work on the construction of the complex costing Rs nine crore would be taken up shortly. The self financing complex is slated to be completed within three working seasons with all modern facilities. Approval to this much needed asset was accorded here at a high level meeting convened by Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Tourism Ghulam Hassan Mir here today. The Director Local Bodies, Kashmir, Vinod Koul and Chief Architect, Muneer Ahmad spelt out the salient features of the project which include construction of 120 shops, 13000 sq. ft space for commercial establishments and a parking block for over 100 vehicles. The complex has been designed on the pattern of modern complexes of metropolitan cities having all latest facilities like lift, shopping centres, restaurants and other customer services. While approving the site plan, the Minister exhorted upon the executing agencies and concerned engineers to devise effective strategy for completion of the vital and much needed asset within three working seasons. He said the complex comprising ground and four storeys shall have provision for having access from the two road sides. He also directed for the availability of customer facilities. Those present in the meeting include Commissioner Secretary Housing and Urban Development, P. G. Dhar Chakarborthy and other senior functionaries of the concerned departments. Problems of Banihal area people highlighted Excelsior Correspondent DODA, Aug 12: J&K State Samaj Sudhar Committee in a meeting under the presidentship of Mohd Yousuf Wani at Banihal, raised the grievances and demands of people of Banihal and also of Doda district. The local people alleged that Government has ignored development of Banihal while there was dire need of repair to roads and school buildings and posting of doctors and other staff in hospitals of Banihal. They said the Chief Minister and his Deputy had assured to open a degree college at Banihal, about a year back but so far nothing has been heard on this account. They demanded district status for Ramban for proper development of the area. They demanded construction of Nachalana National Highway from Ramban to Banihal. People also demanded plying of more buses between Banihal and Qazigund. They also called for expansion of present bus Stand at Ramban. The demand for providing financial assistance to Gujjars at the rate of Rs 20,000 for construction of their dwellings was also raised in the meeting and Mr Wani appealed the Government to concede the genuine demands of Banihal tehsil in particular and of Doda district in general. Anil Manhas, Bilal Ahmed Mir, Ch Farooq Ahmed, Mrs Raj Sharma and others also took part in the meeting. Sectt employees demand 50 pc DA merger Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Aug 12: Employees of all ranks working in the Civil Secretariat today held a protest demonstration while urging upon the Government to concede to the demands of merger of 50 percent DA with basic pay, 20 percent DA from January 2004, and enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60 years. Most of the employees working in the Civil Secretariat assembled in the lawns of the Secretariat and did not attend any work till this noon. Chanting slogans against the Government apathy and reiterating a united fight against anti-employees’ policies, various leaders of the employees’ bodies expressed dismay over Government’s non-seriousness in addressing their problems. The speakers urged upon the Government to concede to the pending demands of employees, which include merger of merger of 50 percent DA with basic pay on central pattern, 20 percent DA with effect from Ist January 2004, and enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60 years. The speakers urged upon the Government to settle their genuine demands without further delay. They argued that the cost of living things was not high for central Government employees alone but the State Government employees were also equally being hit. The speakers asserted that they were conscious of their duties to the society and assured that they would make all efforts to improve the work culture in various departments. President of Jammu and Kashmir Civil Secretariat (Non-Gazetted) Employees Union, Nazir Ahmed Mir, warned the Government not to take their genuine demands lightly. He said that if Government would not concede to their demands within twenty days, the employees would be forced to take agitational path. Mir Poonchi accorded warm welcome at Dara Dullian Excelsior Correspondent POONCH, Aug 12: Mir Poonchi, senior Congress leader and former MP was accorded a rousing reception, when he visited Dara Dullian Halqa after his appointment as vice president of Pradesh Congress Committee amidst slogans in favour of Mrs Sonia Gandhi, Mrs Ambika Soni and Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad. A big public meeting was held under the chairmanship of Haji Alaf Din, president Halqa Dara Dullian in which various local Congress leaders while thanking the Congress high command for appointment of Mir Poonchi also raised various local demands. They demanded plying of City Bus Service from Poonch to Dara Dullian and appealed that the sanctioned Police Station at Dara Dullian may not be shifted to other place as also provision for supply of drinking water to Mohalla Dingi Chir. A youth leader Ch Mir Mohd thanked the people for welcoming Mir Poonchi and appealed the people to support Mr Poonchi in strengthening Congress party. S Krishan Singh, senior Congress leader of Poonch also accompanied Mir Poonchi to Dara Dullian. While speaking on the occasion Mir Poonchi thanked Dara Dullian public for extending his great reception and assured them to take up their problems with the local administration. He also requested Mrs Sonia Gandhi to pay a visit to Poonch as was done by Mrs Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister. JMM appeals people to unite for cause of Jammu region Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: Jammu Mukti Morcha has called upon the political and social organisations of Jammu region to get united and fight for the common issues haunting the people of the province since long. The Morcha resolved this in its meeting held yesterday under the presidentship of Prof Virender Gupta, other dignitaries being H B Khajuria, Vikran Gaur, Ashwani Khullar, R C Gupta, Jagdish Sharma, Ashok Singh, Sudhir Singh Anand and Rajesh Gupta. JMM felt that Congress and BJP have a major responsibility for consolidating the issues and launching an agitation against the anti-Jammu policies of the present State Government. The pressing issues are implementation of Wazir Commission report, delimitation of Assembly constituencies giving due representation in the State Assembly to people of Jammu region, prevailing unemployment and corruption. Morcha supported the demand of opening up of degree colleges at Ramban, Nowshera and Samba and asked the Government to take immediate measures to set up degree colleges at these places. The move of the Power Development Department to install electronic meters in Jammu region was being viewed with suspicion by the public, said the JMM saying that pilferage of Power was more in Kashmir Valley than in Jammu region. Hence electronic meters first be installed in the Valley. J&K Peace Foundation organises relief camp Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: Jammu and Kashmir Peace Foundation organised a relief camp at village Kamila in Samba. In the relief camp, Peace Foundation distributed 40 sewing machines among widows. Grievances of locals were highlighted on the occasion and a public meeting was also organised. Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Yashpal Kundal was chief guest on the occasion. Peace Foundation honoured him with Best Politician award for his people friendly approach and services to the society. Chairman of the Foundation, Fayaz Ahmed Bhatt assured that more such relief camps would be organised in future and help provided to poor and needy people. Yash Pal Kundal and all India general secretary of Gandhian Society, S P Verma, also addressed the gathering. Mallika Sarabhai’s ‘Colours of Heart’ at Abhinav today Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 12: Jammuites will have the privilege to witness a piece of contemporary art with the presentation of ‘Colours of Heart’, a multi-media production, at the Abhinav Theatre, here tomorrow. Developed at the Darpan Academy of Performing Arts, Ahmedabad and designed by Mallika Sarabhai, the dance, musical and theatre piece will feature British-Pakistani Samia Malik. Produced with he help of artists, composers, choreographers of international experience, ‘Colours of the Heart’, is a saga titled ‘Women’s Voice/Silent No more’. And rightly the performance has Mallika Sarabhai and five dancers with Samia Malik as the anchor singer. The other member of the troupe include Sonal Solanki, Arundhati Singha, Italian Ambra Bergamasco, R. Jennine Osayande. The production designed by Yadavan Chandran which has been premiered at Natakarni, November, 2003, at Ahmedabad, is presently being performed in different cities of the country with the help of British Council, Jet Airways and Taj Hotel Resorts and Palaces. The rare opportunity to witness this piece of contemporary art designed by Mallika Sarabhai, country’s well known dancer, choreographer, actress, director, writer and many more, has been brought to the state by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages. The seventy minutes performance will be held at Abhinav Theatre, tomorrow at 7 p.m. IFJ chairman Untoo arrested in Srinagar SRINAGAR, Aug 12: Police today arrested the chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Human Rights Forum (HRF) Mohammad Ahsan Untoo at historic Lal Chowk for violating prohibitory orders. In a unique protest against the alleged Human Rights (HR) violations by the security forces in Kashmir, Mr Untoo, alongwith his supporters, appeared at Lal Chowk, nerve centre of the summer capital, in a wooden cage with his hands, neck and legs tied with chains. The police personnel present in the area immediately took him into custody. He was later lodged in police station Maisuma. Earlier, Mr Untoo, who was recently elected chairman of the International Forum for Justice (IFJ), an organisation working in 14 countries across the globe, told reporters that he used a non violent method to draw the attention of the world organisation towards the HR violations by security forces in the Kashmir valley. He alleged that when people in entire country were celebrating Independence Day (ID) on August 15, people in the Kashmir valley were being put to harassment by the security forces in the name of security measures. He alleged that security forces are conducting house-to-house search operations and parading male members before the cats informers in most localities around the Bakshi stadium, venue for the main Independence Day function, for the past one week. Elders are being humiliated during the frisking, he alleged. Mr Untoo alleged that a number of youths were detained on the eve of ID. He said the released militants were also being asked to report to nearby police stations or security force camp everyday. He alleged that there was no change in the HR situation after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)- Congress Government assumed power in the State. People are being arrested, tortured and killed in fake encounters, he said. (UNI) |
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