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| Mangat inaugurates Handloom Expo Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: The fortnight Special Handloom Expo was inaugurated today evening at sprawling premises of Jammu Haat by Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma.......more Employees’
leaders Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Consequent upon the formation of Committee by the Government, the Employees Joint Action Committee Jammu/Kashmir and Co-ordination Committee of Civil Secretariat............more Gulzar
for extending Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 1: Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (Gulzar) group, Ghulam Ahmad Gulzar, today said that filing............more Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: State Roads and Buildings Department has formulated a Rs 150 crore project for the construction of about 4742 two-room sets..........more IT
expert delivers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Income Tax expert and author of many books, Girish Ahuja visited Jammu and deliberated on the Income Tax matters at a seminar organised by J&K Branch...............more |
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Bhaderwah-Doda
to get Excelsior Correspondent BHADERWAH, Dec 1: Member Parliament and PDP Chief, Ms Mehbooba Mufti has called for independent development authorities for Bhaderwah, Kishtwar and Doda adding that Chamba-Kishtwar- Simthan would be interlinked with Kashmir valley to develop the area as a major tourist circuit...........more Over
57 lakh pilgrims Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, Dec 1: A record number of over 57.01 lakh pilgrims from various parts of the country have visited the holy cave Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji.................more ‘Embezzlement’
by ZEO Mahore Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: A complaint filed by a teacher Noor-Ud-Din Lone before Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, seeking action against Abdul Gaffar, incharge Zonal Education Officer Mahore and Mohd Iqbal, Senior Assistant in ZEO Mahore Office for allegedly misappropriating the Government money to the tune..............more PM’s
package Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Youth Congress (PYC) today termed the Prime Minister’s package as youth-oriented and said that this would go a long way in uplifting...........more |
Mangat inaugurates Handloom Expo Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: The fortnight Special Handloom Expo was inaugurated today evening at sprawling premises of Jammu Haat by Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma. The expo is sponsored by Union Textile Ministry and is organised by Jammu and Kashmir handloom development department to promote local artisans as well as to provide ready market avenues for the consumption of their items. As many as 58 stalls of handlooms products have been installed in the special expo by the selected industrial cooperative societies of each district of the state, NGOs as also participation of the societies from the adjoining states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. The Deputy Chief Minister who inspected all the stalls in the expo evinced keen interest in the items and products displayed there. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister termed the expo as a winter bonanza for the Jammuites who would be able to get genuine handloom products at affordable and reasonable rates under one roof. The consumers are most benefited section of the expo who would be able to purchase the crafted items not only of the state but also of the adjoining states at the discounted prices being offered to allure them. Promoting interaction among the artisans coming not only from various regions of the State but also from the adjoining states is another objective behind the organisation of the expo, said Mr. Sharma. He said the interaction would add to their expertise, design besides enrichment of artisan’s skill and craftsmanship. Recalling the days when Jammu Haat used to an exhibition-cum-sale centre, the Deputy Chief Minister hoped that with improved scenario organization of national and international exhibitions would once take-off with similar pace and zeal. He said that expo is most suited market avenue for the artisans of Jammu and Kashmir, who would get a fora not only for display of their skill but also for consumption of their products. Mr. Sharma also advised the organisers to create sufficient recreational facilities for entertainment of the visitors. This should be supplemented with presentation of cultural programmes by artists of cultural academy, state information department and college and school students every day besides installation of eatables stalls. Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Raman Mattoo who also spoke on the occasion said that motive behind organisation of the expo by the State Government is to boost sales, trade and production of the handloom products. Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce A Saharanaman deliberated at length about the programme and policies of the coalition Government to promote and revitalize handloom and handicraft sectors on which nearly 20 lakh people depend for their survival. He said that an international business centre at Pampore is being established on the grounds of one at Pragati Maiden in New Delhi where exhibitions and expo would become routine affair. He also informed about the setting up of Indian Institute of Carpet Technology and Craft Development Institute at Srinagar where artisans would be imparted training on the operation of latest implants and design mechanism. An Export Centre at an estimated cost of over Rs. 6 crore too is being contemplated besides provision of Artisan Credit Cards to nearly 25,000 during the current year for enabling them easy loan assistance. |
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Employees’ leaders hold meeting with Govt Committee Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Consequent upon the formation of Committee by the Government, the Employees Joint Action Committee Jammu/Kashmir and Co-ordination Committee of Civil Secretariat, on the invitation of the Government held discussions with the Committee today. The meeting was held in a cordial and fruitful manner and the Committee members were apprised of the stress and strain caused to the employees due to the non-fulfillment of the earlier promises and conceding to the pressing, genuine and agreed demands of the employees. The meeting remained inconclusive and it was decided to meet again on December 6, 2004 for further discussions. The Government side was represented by the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Principal Secretary to Government, General Administrative Department. The employees were represented by Nazir Ahmed Mir, Chandji Bhat, Bashir Ahmed Shola, Krishan Singh, Mohammed Sadiq Sheikh and Amarjeet Singh from Secretariat Co-ordination Committee, Ram Kumar Sharma, Gafoor Dar, Prem Paul Singh, Pardeep Kumar, Anwar Beig and Subash Chander from EJAC Jammu and Khursheed Aalam, Mirza Nazir, Ghulam Nabi Telbali and Tasleem Rasheed from EJAC Kashmir. The representatives of employees put their view point before the Committee and demanded release of 2 percent DA from January, 2004 and 3 percent DA from July 2004, merger of 50 percent DA with basic pay on the pattern of Central Government employees, enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60 years, enhancement and uniformity of wages for all temporary workers and revival of LTC. |
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Gulzar for extending support to Geelani group Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 1: Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (Gulzar) group, Ghulam Ahmad Gulzar, today said that filing shadow candidates in the last Assembly elections by some leaders of the Peoples Conference led to the split in the separatist Hurriet conference. Addressing media persons in Srinagar today Gulzar said that those leaders who claim to be the true descendants of slain separatist leader, Abdul Gani Lone were responsible for such an act. Gulzar said that these leaders on the one hand wish to be part of mainstream politics and on the other want to be champions of the ongoing'freedom movement'in Kashmir. Without naming the Lone brothers Gulzar said that the separatist amalgam Hurriyat conference should have taken action against the Lone brothers for filing shadow candidates in the elections. "The leadership of the Hurriyat failed to take action at that time and later on this became the reason that the Hurriyat had to face a split". Ghulam Ahmad Gulzar said that all separatist leaders should strengthen the hands of the present chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani. He urged all the leaders to accept his leadership and take the 'freedom movement' forward. Gulzar also appealed to those leaders who have been 'thrown out' from the Hurriyat Conference, to accept their mistakes in public so that these leaders will be taken back in the Hurriyat fold. Commenting on the present thaw in the Indo-Pak relations, the separatist leader said that the leadership in India and Pakistan will accept Kashmiri people as the third party in the Kashmir tangle and will invite them to be part of the ongoing negotiations. Gulzar also cautioned Indian leadership about their plans to consider a military solution to the Kashmir problem. "Kashmir is a political problem and any solution that will be acceptable to the people has to be a political one," he said. |
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J&K
to take up Basohli bridge issue with Centre Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: State Roads and Buildings Department has formulated a Rs 150 crore project for the construction of about 4742 two-room sets for the Kashmiri migrants languishing in various camps in Jammu and Udhampur districts. The exercise for the construction of two- room accommodation for the KP migrants was launched after the announcement of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh during his recent visit to the winter capital city of the State. Out of the total sets being constructed, 1400 are being constructed in the first phase and the entire exercise will be completed in just three phases. A total of 399 sets are being built at Battal Wallian in Udhampur. Minister incharge Roads and Buildings, G A Mir told Excelsior that a project for the construction of around 4742 two-room sets has been formulated by his department and some sites have also been identified for the purpose. The department requires around Rs 150 cr for the construction of these sets including the cost of land. The aspects of sewerage and proper drainage system is also being taken care of and several agencies have been involved in this exercise. Referring to the present status of the one- room accommodation, the Minister said the existing structures in the camps at Muthi, Mishriwalla, Nagrota, Purkhoo in Jammu and Battal Wallian in Udhampur will be reshaped and converted into two-room sets. By combining two sets, a two-room flat will be developed for single family. He said all the existing structures at various migrant camps will be fully utilised. Some land has also been identified for the construction of new flats and it will be acquired accordingly. At Battal Wallian in Udhampur, flats for 399 families will be constructed. He said the project will be discussed in the Cabinet and then finalised for its implementation and execution. Commenting on the present status, Relief Commissioner Ravi Thussu said there is nearly 5,000 one-room accommodation at Muthi, Purkhoo, Mishriwalla, Nagrota and Udhampur. He said the exercise is going on and provisions of attach bathroom and a kitchen are also being studied with these flats. At present concept of community latrines is existing in various camps and that is also under active consideration. But final decision lies upon with the State Cabinet and the availability of funds. He disclosed that around Rs 9 cr has already been received from the Government for the repair/ modernisation of around 500 quarters at Muthi-Phase II and Purkhu. There is massive leakage of water from roofs of these quarters and after several complaints from migrants, some money has been sanctioned for their modernisation. Besides, 42 kanals of additional land is available at Purkhoo and that site may be utilised for the new constructions. Responding to a question, the R&B Minister said bridge at Basohli over river Ravi is very important to connect J&K with Punjab and Himachal and moreover, in view of tourism potential its significance is manifold. Since the project requires huge funding and lot of expertise, the J&K Government will take up the issue forcefully with the Centre to allot separate funds for this major project. Survey has already been conducted and site also identified by another agency. Another bridge with the cost of Rs 4.5 cr over river Chinab near Mera-Mandriyan in Akhnoor has been taken up. It will be single span nearly 160 mt long bridge and will be completed within two years. Second bridge over Chenab at Akhnoor is being taken up by GREF with the estimated cost of nearly Rs 16 cr. All the hurdles reported to have been cleared and work on it is being taken up shortly by the concerned agency, he maintained. |
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| IT expert delivers lecture at
Chartered Accountants seminar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Income Tax expert and author of many books, Girish Ahuja visited Jammu and deliberated on the Income Tax matters at a seminar organised by J&K Branch of NIRC of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. He spoke on the latest amendments in the Income Tax Act. He urged the Chartered Accountants and business community to be very careful in deducting tax at source under the various provisions of the IT Act as non deduction of TDS on specified payments can lead to non deduction of those payments while computing the income of the business house. The audience which included the Chartered Accountants from all over the state were spell bound by the deliberations made by Mr Ahuja during the seminar. He also spoke on the issues relating to the taxation of non profit making organisations. Mr Ahuja was accompanied by Charanjit Singh Nanda, the Central Council Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. While addressing the gathering he asked the CAs of the state to strictly adhere to the Code of Conduct and ethics as laid down by the Institute. He gave a bird’s eye view about the peer review which is to be conducted on the CAs firms. Rajat Mengi, chairman of the J&K Branch of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India in his welcome address highlighted the issues which CAs of the state are facing. He strongly advocated with the Central Council members for helping the Branch in constructing its own building at Jammu. Mr Nanda assured the members that he will leave no stone unturned in fulfilling the dreams of the CAs of the State. The seminar was conducted by Vikram Garg, secretary of the J&K Branch and the vote of thanks was proposed by Pardeep Gandhotra. The function culminated with the chanting of National Anthem. |
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Bhaderwah-Doda to get
development Excelsior Correspondent BHADERWAH, Dec 1: Member Parliament and PDP Chief, Ms Mehbooba Mufti has called for independent development authorities for Bhaderwah, Kishtwar and Doda adding that Chamba-Kishtwar-Simthan would be interlinked with Kashmir valley to develop the area as a major tourist circuit. Addressing a series of public meetings at Bhaderwah, Pranoo and Assar on the concluding day of her three day tour to district Doda, Ms Mehbooba said Doda district being drought prone, special funds would be earmarked in the budget to augment irrigation facilities in the area. Assuring the people that a University would be set up soon in the district to meet the education persuits of the people, Ms Mehbooba said Union Defence and Home Ministers have been approached to raise some more battalions of IRP and territorial army to appoint youth of the hilly and remote areas, who posses comparatively low qualifications. She also announced to upgrade Bhaderwah hospital to hundred bedded grade adding that an ambulance would also be provided out of the constituency development fund of MLA, Ms Shanta Devi. Minister for Agriculture, Abdul Aziz Zargar, Minister for PHE, Qazi Afzal, MLA Shanta Devi, PDP general secretaries, Ved Mahajan, M S Tariq, Romesh Mottan and other senior party leaders also spoke at the public meetings. Ms Mehbooba said that PDP has made a humble beginning for peace and reconciliation to end blood-shed in the trouble torn state and the terror stricken people now feel a sense of security in relaxed atmosphere. Markets are humming with business till late in the evening and tourist influx has witnessed a steep rise, the PDP Chief maintained. She executed confidence that Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Jammu Sialkote roads would be opened shortly after some positive developments has take place between the two sides in this regard. She said hostilities are changing into love and friendship, adding that the man made barriers between the two neighbouring countries would soon vanish bringing the divided people close to each other. Qazi Mohammad Afzal, while speaking to the public gatherings said that coalition Government is committed to provide basic amenities especially drinking and irrigation facilities to the people of Doda district. He said a special comprehensive plan would be executed shortly for digging tube-wells and setting up of lift irrigation schemes in nook and corner of this hilly and mountainous region. Addressing the public meeting, the Agriculture Minister announced Rs 12 crore extensive sheep and wool development project exclusive for Doda district. The project has been submitted for 100% percent financial assistance. The project envisages to set up fodder banks and wool scouring plants at Bhaderewah, Kishtwar and Doda. He announced a fruit and vegetable Mandi at Assar and assured that vast potential of horticulture in Doda district would be exploited through Rs 100 crore Technology Mission for Horticulture. |
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Over 57 lakh pilgrims visit Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, Dec 1: A record number of over 57.01 lakh pilgrims from various parts of the country have visited the holy cave Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji upto ending November from January Ist this year. During the corresponding period of last year 50.30 lakh pilgrims had darshan at the holy cave. Thus an increase of over 6.71 lakh pilgrims has been registered in the yatra. Alone in November, about 4.34 devotees paid obeisance at the shrine as compared to 3.80 lakh pilgrims during the corresponding period last year. Presently, 9000 to 10000 pilgrims are reaching at the base camp Katra for their onward journey to the holy cave. Meanwhile, as the winter season has set in, yatries are requested to bring warm clothes. Sufficient blankets are available on normal security base at Adhkuwari, Sanji Chat and Bhawan for the facilities of visiting pilgrims. Apart from executing recent development works, Shrine Board has constructed number of toilet track. Proper arrangements for drinking water facility has also been made. A large number of shelter sheds have been constructed for visiting pilgrims. |
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‘Embezzlement’
by ZEO Mahore Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: A complaint filed by a teacher Noor-Ud-Din Lone before Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, seeking action against Abdul Gaffar, incharge Zonal Education Officer Mahore and Mohd Iqbal, Senior Assistant in ZEO Mahore Office for allegedly misappropriating the Government money to the tune of rupees 20 lakh, has been referred to DIG Vigilance to initiate action. In the complaint filed before Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu Mr BL Bhat, it was mentioned that one Mohd Amin Bhat came to be appointed as Third teacher on an honorarium of rupees 1,500 per month in March-April 2003, but he has been deprived of his emoluments since the date of his appointment and the same have been embezzled by the accused. It has been further submitted in the complaint that both the accused have spread a reign of terror throughout the zone as they have allegedly misappropriated huge funds which were to be utilized for the construction of school buildings. The complainant has also given many others instances wherein it has been alleged that the duo ‘embezzled’ the Government money. Upon this, the Court referred the complaint to DIG Vigilance to initiate action. |
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PM’s package youth-oriented: PYC Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Youth Congress (PYC) today termed the Prime Minister’s package as youth-oriented and said that this would go a long way in uplifting the youth of the State. Talking to media-persons, state president of Youth Congress Mohd Amin Bhat said "this is for the first time in the history of the State that the Centre has given full benefit to youth of the State by announcing to lift the ban on recruitment, immediate creation of 24,000 new jobs and over one lakh jobs in new projects". "The package has complete vision plan to uplift the youth of this State and I hope youth of State would give full cooperation to the Coalition Government in the State for implementing the package more effectively for the benefits and development of the three regions of the State. Elaborating the package, he said that all one lakh jobs would come up by establishing one thousand micro-projects across the State, raising five additional Indian Reserve Battalions for the State Police and new recruitment in CRPF and other security forces battalions. This will create 10,000 new jobs across the State. In addition to this 6,817 Anganwaries in every habitants to generate 14,000 employment opportunities for women across the State. Moreover, 50 tourist villages across the State to be established and this will create huge self employment for youth across the State. Speaking on the occasion, Spokesman Kamal Anand and Man Mohan Singh, senior vice-president of PYC said that this package has total literacy for all the regions of the State by announcing 14 degree colleges and nine women ITIs. "The Agriculture Graduates will also get benefit under Agri-Clinic Scheme for self employment", they added. They appealed the youth of the State to give full cooperation to the Coalition Government for implementing the said package more effectively for their benefits and development of the region. |
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Constable dies in accidental fire Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: A constable died in accidental fire from his official weapon while as eight persons were injured in road accidents. Police spokesman said that the service weapon of constable Nazir Ahmad of JKAP VIth Battalion went off all of a sudden while he was on sentry duty in Kishtwar area. He died on the spot. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. Meanwhile, eight persons were injured in separate road accidents. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. They have been identified as Ashok Kumar, son of Dwarka Nath of Rajouri, Paramjit Singh, son of Thakur Singh of Dogra Nagar, Jaswant Raj, son of Kartar Chand of Akalpur, Vicky, son of Maryan Singh of Bhagwati Nagar, Tulsi Ram, son of Jai Krishan of Kishtwar, Utfal Begum, wife of Mohd Hussain, Vinod Sharma and Udhay Chand of Talab Tillo. Meanwhile, two persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. Identified as Darshan, son of Piala Lal of Kathua and Bimla Devi, wife of Pritam Singh of Billawar, they were rushed to Government Medical College Hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. Doctors immediately provided them stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. Their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. Two persons—Raj Kumar, son of Chuni Lal and Sunita Devi, daughter of Chuni Lal of Bishnah received severe burn injuries in accidental fire incidents at their respective houses. Both have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be critical. |
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End
discrimination against women to Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 1 : HIV is one of the biggest social, economic and health challenge in the world. It is a global emergency claiming over 8000 lives a day, in fact 5 people die of AIDS every minute. This was stated by Minister for Health and Medical Education Mrs. Suman Lata Bhagat while addressing a function organised by Jammu and Kashmir State Prevention and Control Society ion collaboration with Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar in connection with celebration of world AIDS Day 2004 here today. The title for this year has been selected as "Women, Girls and HIV & AIDS". She said that HIV known to cause AIDS is a great threat to humanity and health. She said that persons with HIV cannot be called AIDS patient until the virus seriously damages their immune system, making them vulnerable to a range of infections, some of which can lead to death. Giving details of spread of AIDS, she said that HIV is transmitted through body fluids in particular blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk, adding that women are more likely to become infected than men. Sexual violence is an issue affecting women everywhere in the World, it can be more damaging when it involves the transmission, sometimes deliberate through rapes and atrocities. The Minister said that another factor is discrimination of women in respect their job prospects, economic and social position, access to health care and education. To tackle the problems, the Minister suggested that efforts need to be made to end discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS, educate people in safer sex and drug use, using appropriate media, provide financial and medical assistance so that people with HIV and AIDS could be treated. She said that awareness about AIDS can protect the humanity from this deadly disease. The function was among others attended by Director Health Services, jammu Dr. Kailash Kohli, Project Director, AIDS Control Society, Dr. N. A. Wani, Project Director, RCH, DR. Rakesh Khajuria, Principal, Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Mrs. Asha Sharma and several prominent personalities and students. On the occasion, exhibition of posters and muisical items on AIDS Control was also organised by the students of the college. The first three positions were bagged by Komal Harijan, Mahuva Gupta and Gursimran respectively. Earlier, inter-college debate/symposia on the control of HIV/AIDS was organised at Gandhi Memorial College of Education at Bantalab, Raipur. Students of different colleges participated in the debate. Health Minister distributed prizes among the meritorious best speakers which include Anjana Sharma, Chandani Sharma, Pooja Verma and Maninder Singh. |
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Seminar on ‘Quality
Sustenance, Enhancement Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: A two-day State level seminar on ‘Quality Sustenance and Enhancement in Higher Education’ was inaugurated at GGM Science College, here today. Sponsored by National Assessment and Accreditation Council, the seminar was inaugurated by Education Minister Harsh Dev Singh and attended by Dr Latha Pillai, Senior Advisor NAAC, MoS Education Dr G N Lone and Commissioner Secretary Education P K Tripathi. In his keynote address, Vice-Chairman UGC, Prof Rajasekharan Pillai said that education is for improving quality of life and life management systems. Explaining how colleges and universities can be a part of literacy movement in the country, he was of the view that technology should be used in the spread of literacy and innovations have to come from teachers and e-teaching should be integrated with the conventional class room. In his address, Harsh Dev Singh said that education was the first to suffer during militancy and the present Government took harsh steps to improve educational scenario in the State. He gave a resume of the steps taken to improve quality of education in the State by the new Government. Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries and the delegates, Dr N D Wani, Director Colleges, said the views and suggestions of the participants would receive due consideration in framing the new policies for higher education. Vote of thanks was presented by Prof C S Khajuria, Principal of the college while proceedings were conducted by Dr A K Munshi, convenor of the seminar. On the occasion, a Souvenir, Heritage Magazine, Alumni Directory, IQAC News Letter, College Time and magazine of Evening College were also released by the dignitaries. In the afternoon session, there was paper reading by various college teachers on different topics relating to quality sustenance. Those who presented papers, included, Prof Indira Rathore (Principal of MAM College), Prof Rita Munshi (Principal SPMR Commerce College), Prof Mahmuda Mir (former Principal of Government Women College MA Road, Srinagar), Prof Ashok Aima, Prof Ashok Manwati, Prof D C Raina and Dr A K Munshi. The highlights of the afternoon session were power presentation by Dr Latha Pillai. After the presentation, she also fielded queries from the participating delegates. |
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Viraat Cultural Society stages play on AIDS Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Viraat, a socio-cultural society, presented a short play ‘Zaroorat Hai’ on the occasion of World Aids Day at Viraj Kala Kendra, Gandhinagar here today. The story pertained to the agonies faced by AIDS victims in the society where they are treated more as objects of contempt in the same manner as criminals rather than treating them with sympathy and care. It is all matter of our upbringing and social orientation that will determine our responses to this dreadful social menance in the years ahead, rather than our indifference and apathy, the central theme of the play loudly conveys. The play was written and directed by young playwright, Varun Suthra while the background music was provided by Prikhyat Sharma. Among those played different roles included—Ashish Mahajan, Sandeep Bhagat, Jasleen Kour, Abhishek Vaid, Sumit Sharma, Tarun Sharma, Abhishek Magotra, Mohit and Aarti. The society proposes to have repeat performances of the play at different fora so that a meaningful fight against AIDS is carried forward. Prof Rita Jitender and Director Tourism Nirmal Sharma were the special invitees to the programme. |
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Plan formulated for beautification of Handwara, Kupwara Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Government has formulated integrated development plan for beautification of Handwara and Kupwara towns in North Kashmir. The plan envisages all over integrated development of the twin towns of the district, besides improvement in civic amenities. The work on the plan devised under centrally sponsored Integrated Development of Small and Medium Towns (IDSMT) would be taken up soon. This was decided at a meeting held here today under the chairmanship of Forest and Environment Minister, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi, which among others was attended by Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdul Majid Wani, Director Local Bodies Kashmir, Vinod Kumar and other senior officers. Thread bare discussion was held over the effective implementation of the plan and other related parameters. It was decided that several technical gadgets including Sucker and other equipments would be procured as a short term major to cope up with the situation to meet sanitation requirements in the two towns. It was also decided that work on renovation of shopping plaza near old bus stand land, street lights besides augmentation of other civic amenities in Handwara town would be accelerated. |
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AIDS Day observed at Lal Ded and SKIMS college Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 1: In connection with World AIDS Day, impressive functions were held at SKIMS Medical College Bemina and Lal Ded Hospital here today. Minister of State for Health, Abdul Gaffar Sofi was the Chief Guest at both the functions, where a large gathering of students and doctors besides Principal SKIMS Medical College, JVC, Bemina Dr. Mohammad Afzal Wani and Medical Superintendents of JVC and lal Ded Hospital were present. Calling upon the social activists and NGOs to contribute their mite in eradicating the deadly disease of AIDS, the Minister said that precautionary measures need to be taken to get rid of this disease which takes a heavy toll of life every year in the world. Since this year’s, AIDS day has been attributed to women folk, it is mandatory to educate them about the scourge of AIDS, which could go a long way in controlling the spread of this disease. He said AIDS not only to the leads to death but is also a social stigma and brings disgrace both to the affected and his family members. Mr. Sofi said that AIDS poses serious threat to mankind and in order to live AIDS free life, one must know the precautions to be taken to remain away from this deadly disease. He said if we follow the religious teachings in letter and spirit we would never fall prey to this disease. On the occasion, the Minister released a book on ‘AIDS’ compiled and published by the SKIMS Medical College. |
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Dr Nagendra assumes charge of VC SKUAST Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Dr Nagendra Sharma has assumed charge of the Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu today. He assumed charge from H U Khan, whose tenure expired on October 19, 2004. Prior to his new assignment as VC of this University, he was Director and Vice-Chancellor of National Dairy Research Institute (Deemed University). He has also been Vice-Chancellor, Indian Veterinary Research Institute (Deemed University) and Director Central Institute of Research on Goats, Makhdoom. Dr Sharma is follow of National Academy of Veterinary Sciences (India), chairman of Food and Agriculture Division (FAD 56) of Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS). Born on September 5, 1943 in a farmer family of Nalanda district Bihar, Dr Sharma completed his Ph.D in Poultry Sciences from Rohilkhand University in 1980 and was awarded Doctor of Sciences (DS) in Meat Science and Nutrition from LAO/INRA France in 1984. He has guided more than 15 Master’s and Doctoral scholars and written more than 200 publications. He is recipients of Gits Award 1966, KU Patel Memorial Award 1973, Malika Trivedi, IAAVR award and Lifetime Achievement Award for Veterinary Profession in 2002 for outstanding research and professional contributions. He has worked for the poor farmers so as to enhance their earning. He has developed technologies for tenderization of meat from spent animals and poultry, process designs for low calorie meat products, extended shelf life of meat and milk products, quality control standard for milk, meat and poultry production and mythology for clear milk production, a release issued here stated. Separatists, NC condemn Chadoora, Sumbal incidents Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 1: Separatist groups and opposition National Conference (NC) have condemned the shoot-out incidents in Chadoora and Sumbal areas in which three civilians were killed and scores others injured. They have lamented at the coalition Government for failing to stop human rights violation in the State despite tall claims. A spokesman of Mirwaiz Omar Farooq led Hurriyat Conference in a statement today said that there was a sudden spurt in violation of human rights after the visit of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Valley. "Hurriyat Conference is deeply anguished over the rise in human rights abuse in Kashmir valley. We have decided to observe a token hunger strike in protest of these violations. The date and place would be announced soon," the spokesman said. A spokesman of the Jammu Kashmir Libration Front (JKLF) in its statement said that it was "shameful" on part of Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed to defend the brazen violations by security forces. "We strongly condemn these atrocities at the hands of occupational forces. These are unacceptable to us and are worst form of state terror," the spokesman said. National Conference (NC) president, Omar Abdullah, while condemning the killing of three civilians, demanded a high level probe by an independent body into the twin incidents. According to a statement, Omar termed it unfortunate that the hapless civilians were fired at who were protesting against the failure of incumbent government on all fronts. "The promises of coalition Government to provide employment to all households, end to human rights violations, peace with dignity have proved a mirage. The coalition Government has failed on all fronts. Where is its slogan of goli nahin boli (No bulets but dialogue)," he said. The Kashmir province leaders of the NC in a meeting, which was chaired by the party’s provincial president, Dr Mehboob Baig, unanimously passed a resolution on human rights violations. The resolution said that eversince Mufti Government came to power there was unprecedented increase in the abuse of human rights. Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (PC) chairman, Sajjad Gani Lone, in a statement, expressed deep concern over the fresh spurt in the human rights violations. "Though Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference does not think that the Kashmir problem is a human rights issue, but the recent increase in the human rights violations warrants the attention of every civil society. Despite the tall claims by the incumbent state Government of improving human rights situation, the reality and the facts on ground are proving otherwise round," he said. "The recent state-manage killings are pointing towards some nefarious designs of the Mufti Government. This needs to be ascertained at the earliest so that the further violations are checked in time," he elaborated. Several other groups including Awami Action Committee (AAC), Javaid Mir’s Jammu Kashmir Libration Forum (JKLF), Jamiat-e-Ahli Hadees and Jammu Kashmir Jamiat-e-Hamadania have condemned the shoot-out in Chadoora and Sumbal areas. BSF Jammu Frontier celebrates Raising Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 1: Raising day of the Border Security Force (BSF) was celebrated by the BSF men at unit, sector and frontier level with great enthusiasm here today. The children of BSF School, Ploura also organised an impressive function in this connection. The parents of children, staff and special invitees also witnessed the programme. Cultural programme presented by the children was widely appreciated. The children depicted the cultural heritage of the state and the border belt of this region. In order to mark the occasion, a Barakhana was also arranged at BSF Frontier headquarters, Jammu for the troops where in all officers , subordinate officers and all ranks participated. The families of the officers and jawans also celebrated the function at the Frontier headquarters here. DIG BSF Jammu sector, P K Mishra and DIG M K Razdan also attended the function. The function commenced with the cutting of a cake by the DIGs. Meanwhile, on the eve of 39th BSF Raising Day, a Medical camp was also organised by the BSF personnel at border village of Chak Dulma in Hiranagar for providing medical assistance to the border population. A large number of women and children also turned to the camp and availed the facilities. Free medicines were also provided to the needy and poor patients. The villagers appreciated the gensture of BSF. Prof Aslam invited to ESCWA meet Excelsior e-mail Service JAMMU, Dec 1: Professor M. Aslam currently serving as a professor at IGNOU, New Delhi, who hails from Jammu and Kashmir, has been invited by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) to serve as an expert for the international seminar on ‘Rural Development-Policies, Strategies and Institutions’ to be held from 20 to 22 December, 2004 in Beirut, Lebanon. He will be representing ‘Afro-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO)’ in the seminar and will make presentation on Asia experiences in rural development. Aslam has earlier served as Director (Training) at the Centre for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) between 1981-88. He is with IGNOU for the last more than 12 years as a professor and served as Director/Dean, School of Continuing Education, IGNOU between 1998-2001. Sarod maestro to perform in Akhnoor, Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 29: "An any young person who wants to be a musician must have proper talim from right kind of guru, followed by riaz , imagination and above all respect for the subject", was how Pandit Tejendra Narayan Majumdar, the well known Sarod player from Calcutta, enumerated the pre-requisites for taking up classical music as a vocation. Tajinder Majumdar, who is visiting Jammu on the invitation of J&K Cultural Academy, will be performing at Akhnoor, tomorrow, November 30, 2004., under Border Area Development Scheme. He is the first artist of national and international repute to perform in a border town, said Ramesh Mehta, Secretary, Cultural Academy. Tajinder Majumdar, one of the talented Sarod players of present generation, was initiated into music by his grandfather, Bibhuti Ranjan Majumdar, and later his father, Ranjan Majumdar. After vocal and rhythm training under Amresh Choudhary and Anil Palit, he went under the tutelage of Ustad Bahadur Khan. After 18 years of rigorous study, recognition came when he stood first in All India Radio Music Competition and was awarded President’s Gold Medal and Pandit D. V. Paluskar award. Presently he is under the continuous guidance of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan and carrying on the mantle of Senia Mahiar gharana. Today, most of his time is taken up in visiting abroad, presenting concerts, lecture demonstrations, doing recordings and taking up teaching assignments. Being a contemporary musician, he is also open to experimentation and often performs in innovative collaborations. Tajinder Majumdar will also give Sarod recital in winter capital on December 1, 2004, at the Abhinav Theatre. |
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