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| Geelani undergoes gall-bladder surgery NEW DELHI, Dec 18: Hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani underwent surgery for removing gallbladder stone, family sources said here today......more JAKFED
likely to cross Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: JAKFED is all set to cross over an annual turn over Rs 75 cr by the end of this financial year..........more Bagh-i-Mehtab
flat Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 18: The lucky owners of three room flat accommodation constructed by Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board at the posh Bagh-i-Mehtab locality near, here were selected through a draw of lots that was held in the office of the Managing Director State Housing Board at Kashmir on Friday...........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: The issue of development and promotion of Punjabi language in the State figured prominently........more PYC
demands 25 pc Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Flexing its muscles against ‘old guards’ of the party, Pradesh Youth Congress (PYC) today demanded 25 percent quota for youth in the forthcoming elections........more |
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Rs 32 cr
spent under Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar Dec 18: Against current year’s annual plan of Rs.74.46 crores for Anantnag district, over Rs.31.81 crores have been utilized for implementation of various developmental and welfare schemes by ending November last in Anantnag district...........more Two held
for smuggling Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Dec 18: Police today seized 12 bovine animals and arrested two smugglers during routine checking at Military Hospital Check Post on the National Highway..................more Vaishno
Devi pilgrim Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Body of a Vaishno Devi pilgrim was recovered under mysterious circumstances while as two persons were injured in road accidents.............more 45 per
cent plan funds Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 18: Against approved plan outlay of Rs. 60.57 crore for Pulwama district, an amount of Rs. 27.42 crore stand utilized on the implementation of various development and welfare schemes by November end this year......more |
Geelani undergoes gall-bladder surgery NEW DELHI, Dec 18: Hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani underwent surgery for removing gallbladder stone, family sources said here today. The firebrand Jamaat leader was operated upon in the Ganga Ram Hospital here yesterday, they said. The sources said he was recuperating and would be discharged from the hospital in a couple of days. In February 2003, Mr Geelani underwent a kidney operation at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai after he was granted parole. The Jammu and Kashmir Government had ordered Mr Geelani’s release on parole on health grounds, after about nine months of detention in a Ranchi jail under the Public Safety Act. He was flown by a state aircraft to Mumbai for treatment. The separatist leader had been arrested in June 2003 following a series of raids by the Income Tax Department and police at several places in the valley, including his residence, to check the funding of militant outfits. (UNI) |
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JAKFED likely to cross turn over of Rs 75 crore Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: JAKFED is all set to cross over an annual turn over Rs 75 cr by the end of this financial year. It was disclosed in the 274th meeting of the Board of Directors of JAKFED held here today under the chairmanship of Mohd Ayub Khan. Managing Director of the JAKFED V C Sharma while presenting the agenda of the meeting disclosed that JAKFED was all set to cross its annual turn over to Rs 75 cr during the year 2004-05 against last year’s figures of Rs 60 cr. The performance of each business activity being undertaken by JAKFED was reviewed by the Board of Directors and appreciated in achieving the revised targets by putting hard work. The directors took major decisions for the upliftment of JAKFED and Cooperative sector as a whole by opening of model service sale centres in the state in collaboration with IFFCO. The directors also discussed the measures to be adopted by JAKFED for restructuring the organisation. A sub-committee was formed which will meet the Chief Minister and others for reconsidering the decision of allotment of JAKFED land to Dental hospital by the Government. Proposal of the management regarding formulation of internal audit wing in JAKFED for making employees of the Federation accountable was also approved.Efforts of effecting recovery were also appreciated. It also resolved in the meeting that registrar Cooperative Societies be requested to direct the Cooperative Marketing Societies to restart the business activities with the JAKFED on cash and carry basis by delinking the old recoveries till the final outcome of the court cases. Grievances cell to redress the grievances of the employees has also been constituted. |
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Bagh-i-Mehtab flat owners selected through draw of lots Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 18: The lucky owners of three room flat accommodation constructed by Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board at the posh Bagh-i-Mehtab locality near, here were selected through a draw of lots that was held in the office of the Managing Director State Housing Board at Kashmir on Friday. A total of 14 applications were received by the public desiring to own flat accommodation in Bagh-i-Mehtab locality for the three flats that were constructed there. Of them, seven applicants desired for the accommodation at first floor while the remaining opted for the two flats comprising three rooms at the second floor. The first floor accommodation selectee is Rafiq-ud-Din, son of Ghulam Qadir Din , while the selectees of the second floor are Mrs Naseema, wife of Sheikh Mohammed Sadiq and Gulzar Hussain Mir, son of Baker Mohammed Mir. The draw of lots medium was opted by the Housing Board in view of the large number of applicants desiring to have flat accommodation,as this would ensure transparency in selection procedure. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: The issue of development and promotion of Punjabi language in the State figured prominently on the opening day of the two- day conference of Punjabi writers, poets and litterateurs, here today. Organised by Punjabi Sahitik Sangh, the conference was inaugurated by Minister of State for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Sardar Manjit Singh, while S. Amrik Singh was among the members of the presidium. The charter of demands presented by President of the Sangh, S.Kirpal Singh Kasali, included introduction of Punjabi from Primary standard, opening of Punjabi post-graduate department in Srinagar University, filling of posts of Punjabi lecturers in colleges and schools, recognition of Punjabi as the second language, increase in time of Punjabi porgrammes at All India Radio and construction of Punjabi Bhavan. Responding to the demands, the minister assured that the genuine demands would be addressed in a phased manner. He also promised every possible help to the Sabha. The highlights of the inaugural session included release of seven books by authors like Parshan Singh Sharaf, Jaswant Singh Shan, Rashpal Singh Bali. A quarterly Punjabi magazine ‘Heemal’, published by Punjabi Sahitik Sabha, Kashmir, was also released on the occasion. Prominent Punjabi authors honoured on the occasion included Prof Janak Singh Kirti, Gurbachan Singh Aas, Smt Sukhbeer Kaur, Rashpal Singh Bali and others. The second session comprised of ‘Kavi Darbar’ in which large number of poets participated. These included Amar Singh Kooka, Raj Pal Singh Mastana, Hardayal Singh Rehbar, Des Raj Danish, K.K. Shakir, A. R. Gamkhar, Nargis Sitara, Dr Monojit, Smt Surinder Neer, Bhupinder Bhargava, Bachan Bharti, Seva Singh Sheetal, Davinder Singh Vishva Nagrik, Dr Baljit Raina, Shamsher Singh Chaulvi and others. The poetic symposium was chaired by Gurcharan Singh Gulshan. During the last session of today’s conference, a play in Punjabi, ‘Nachangi Saari Raat’, was performed by Balraj Sahni Punjabi Rangmanch. Written and directed by Kirpal Singh Kasali, the play highlighted the problem of senior citizens who in this age of materialism are having a raw deal from their children. Those who acted in the play included Madan Rangeela, Santosh Sangra, Sapna Soni, Kirpal Singh Kasali, Lakshmi Tagotra and Shammi who also did the make-up. The lights were designed by Daya Ram Daya. Tomorrow, the proceedings of the last day of conference will include ‘Kahani Goshti’, paper reading session and music programme |
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PYC demands 25 pc quota in
local bodies Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Flexing its muscles against ‘old guards’ of the party, Pradesh Youth Congress (PYC) today demanded 25 percent quota for youth in the forthcoming elections to local urban bodies elections scheduled to be held in next year. Threatening party leadership against the neglect of younger generation in the forthcoming elections, Youth Congress minced no words in attacking senior leaders for, what they called, just exploiting the youth. While as PYC president Mohammed Amin Bhat warned to stage indefinite dharna at party headquarters if quota was not given to them, other leaders threatened not to work for official party candidates in the ensuing elections. One after another, Youth Congress leaders attacked senior leaders of the party including Ministers for not giving due considerations to the problems of young lot of the party. Much heat was generated in today’s one day convention of Youth Congress which witnessed workers attacking senior leaders. Speaking on the occasion, PYC president Mohammed Amin Bhat warned the leadership against neglecting younger generation. While demanding 25 percent quota for Youth Congress workers in local bodies elections, Mr Bhat said that it was high time to give due representation to youth leadership. "We will restore to indefinite dharna if our demand of 25 quota was not fulfilled", asserted Mr Bhat while giving a strict warning to party leadership. He was of the opinion that Youth Congress was a backbone of the party and leadership must give due consideration to his demand. "How long we will be used by the senior leaders", he questioned and called upon the workers to show their strength. Senior vice-president Manmohan Singh, while demanding due share from the party leaders, suggested that adequate representation of young lot will help the party to further expand its base in the region. Mr Singh said that it was hightime to infuse fresh blood in the party and forthcoming local bodies elections were an opportunity for launching new leadership for the party. Similar views were expressed by general secretary and spokesman of the PYC, Kamal Anand, who also supported views expressed by leaders regarding 25 percent quota. Narinder Gupta, Uttam Singh, Thomas Khokhar, Rajesh Sharma, Ravi Singh, Ashish Sharma of Vijaypur, Surinder Gupta, Lucky Singh, Kewal Krishan Jogi, Prem Singh, Amit Chib, Ashwani Puri, Ajay Toni among others present in them meeting which was also attended by all district presidents. Youth Congress also organised another function at Shakti Nagar in which 10 sewing machines, 50 blankets and 33 old age widow pensions cheques were distributed among need person. The function was organised PYC vice-president Manmohan Singh. The blankets were given by the Red Cross Society of Jammu. |
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Rs 32 cr spent under Anantnag annual plan Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar Dec 18: Against current year’s annual plan of Rs.74.46 crores for Anantnag district, over Rs.31.81 crores have been utilized for implementation of various developmental and welfare schemes by ending November last in Anantnag district. This was revealed at a District Development Board review meeting of Anantnag district held here today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. The District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, Baseer Ahmad Khan gave a resume of the achievements registered during current financial year claimed that Rs. 8.89 crore and Rs. 22.92 crore have been spent on engineering and non-engineering sectors respectively. Under R&B sector 158 km roads have been upgraded, 1861 RMs drains, 10 bridges/culverts, 1681 RMs walling constructed and 12.25 km earthwork completed. Under PHE sector, 26 schemes are under execution and against a target of over 30,000 souls of 29 villages as many as 20,000 souls have so far been provided potable water. Under Irrigation Sector 28 schemes under different programmes are under execution for stabilisation of irrigation facilities in the district. Buildings for 2 PHCs have been constructed while work on 46 hospital buildings including 22 PHCs is at different stages. Out of 157 gutted school buildings, 133 buildings have so for been completed. As many as 142 Education Guarantee Scheme (EGS) Centres have been opened under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) while 60 primary schools are being opened and 47 schools are being upgraded by the end of current financial year. For improvement of power supply, three receiving stations have recently been commissioned at Nillow, Hillar and Nowgam Shangus with an expenditure of Rs.2.21 crore while 2 grid stations at Kulgam and Mattan are under execution at a cost of Rs.26.50 crores. The District Development Commissioner informed the meeting that the production of mutton, wool and milk has increased to 21.40 lakh kgs, 6.53 lakh kgs and 1.02 lakhs metric tons respectively so far during the current financial year. Similarly, the production of honey, mushroom and cocoon has been recorded at 152 quintals, 619 kgs and 45,265 kgs respectively this year. Under Centrally sponsored Swarm Gramine Rozgar Yojna (SGRY) out of 1026 works as many as 717 rural development works including roads, school buildings, lanes, drains etc. have been completed with an expenditure of Rs.1.62 crores generating about one lakh mandays. Under additionality, out of 2255 different works, 1936 works have been completed with a cost of Rs. 8.23 crores. |
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Two held for smuggling bovine animals Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Dec 18: Police today seized 12 bovine animals and arrested two smugglers during routine checking at Military Hospital Check Post on the National Highway. Police spokesman said that during routine checking police personnel led by SHO Jagdev Singh signaled a truck bearing registration number JK02E-3587 to stop at MH Check Post but the driver of the truck accelerated the vehicle and fled from the spot. SHO under the supervision of SSP Udhampur Vijay Singh Sambyal immediately swung into action and chased the truck at Therd, about three kilometres from Udhampur. On checking the documents of the truck, police came to know that real number of the truck was JK02F-6545 but the smugglers used fake number to dodge the police. In the vehicle, police found 12 bovine animals which were being smuggled to Srinagar from Jammu. The driver of the vehicle—Jakir Hussain of Sidhra Jammu and owner of the truck Mohd Latif were immediately arrested and the vehicle alongwith animals was seized. A case has been registered in this connection. Meanwhile, police arrested a drug-peddler and recovered 72 pouches of country made liquor from his possession. He has been identified as Ramesh Kumar, son of Munshi Ram of Katra. |
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Vaishno Devi pilgrim found
dead under Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Body of a Vaishno Devi pilgrim was recovered under mysterious circumstances while as two persons were injured in road accidents. Police spokesman said that a Vaishno Devi pilgrim Naresh Kumar, son of Bhola Ram of Shastri Nagar found dead under mysterious circumstances at Bhawan. Police has initiated proceedings under Section 174 CrPC. Meanwhile, two persons—Yograj Singh, son of Heera Singh of Trikuta Nagar and Bhagat Singh, son of Than Chand of Shastri Nagar sustained injuries in separate road accidents at Vijaypur and Satwari. Both have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. Two persons—Ram Ashraj, son of Ram Moeshraj of Chanderkote and Dilbagh Singh, son of Hari Singh of Chanderkote allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. Both were rushed to hospital when spotted unconscious. Doctors attending on them immediately provided them stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. Their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. |
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45 per cent plan funds utilized in Pulwama Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Dec 18: Against approved plan outlay of Rs. 60.57 crore for Pulwama district, an amount of Rs. 27.42 crore stand utilized on the implementation of various development and welfare schemes by November end this year. This was Stated in the Pulwama District Development Board review meeting held here today under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Principal Secretary, Planning, M. I. Khanday, Divisional, Kashmir, Mr, Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Head of departments and district officers were also present. Giving a resume of achievements registered under various sectors, District Development Commissioner, A. Lateef-u-Zaman Deva said that under R&B sector, 45 km road length has been black topped, 26 kms brought under WBM grade III, 32 kms under grade II and 6 kms under grade-I, claiming an expenditure of Rs. 3.46 crore while 106 schemes are under execution. Under PHE sector, he said 23 schemes were expanded and augmented benefiting 85395 souls involving an expenditure of Rs. 2.15 crore. Under education sector, the District Development Commissioner apprised that 30 primary schools are being opened under SSA while 135 primary, 12 middle and 6 high schools are being up-graded to different levels during the current financial year. 10 school buildings are under execution at a cost of Rs. 35 lakh. Under Health sector, 5 health centres have been up-graded while 77 health centres are proposed to be up-graded during the fiscal year. Rs. 4.18 crore stand spent on this sector. Deva added that under Social Welfare Sector, 4865 students were provided pre-matric scholarship while, 35240 children were covered under ICDS. He said under Agriculture sector, an area of 55700 hectares were brought under high yielding varieties of Kharif while 43100 hectares have been brought under Rabi programme. In the Horticulture sector, 112 hectares of land were brought under fresh fruit cultivation in the district. District Development Commissioner further informed that the population of live stock and poultry has touched 190477 and 406452 respectively resulting an increase in milk production to 162000 tons and egg production to 2.50 crore. Under Rural Development sector, 348 works stand completed involving a cost of Rs. 1.60 crore under SGRY, generating 1.03 lakh mandays. 35 Self Help Groups were formed and a revolving fund of Rs. 42.24 lakh sanctioned in their favour. On the occasion, MLAs raised various public utility issues. |
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Qazi for judicious use of drinking water Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 18: Reiterating that upgradation of Social Sector is the priority commitment of coalition Government, the Minister for PHE Irrigation and Flood Control Qazi Mohd Afzal has said that potable water supply would be provided to the people at their door steps. The Minister was addressing a public gathering at Nagrota here today. The Minister said that Government have formulated a comprehensive plan for upgradation of existing water supply schemes to meet people’s requirements. He called upon the people to use drinking water judiciously. The Minister also announced that a hand pump would be installed at the Shamshan ghat of Nagrota. The Minister also inspected some ongoing development works in Nagrota. On the occasion, a number of N.C workers joined the P.D.P. Others who spoke on the occasion include Rangil Singh, G.Q. Wani, Dhaman Bhasin, Renu Azad and Ashaq Hussain. |
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KP factions
discuss common problems Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Various Kashmiri Pandit organizations in their meeting today highlighted the problems being faced by the community. The Non Camp Migrant Coordination Committee which met here under the chairmanship of B N Khar made an appeal to all organisations to frame a common memorandum to be presented before the visiting Inter Ministerial Committee members on the problems of camp and non camp migrants. The meeting demanded economic and employment package for community, its permanent rehabilitation, grant of minority status, simplification of voting procedures and resolution of pending issues of displaced employees, businessmen and agriculturists. It assured full support and cooperation to the initiative taken by JKVM in this regard. A meeting of migrant camp dwellers was held at Purkhoo under the chairmanship of Roshan Lal Raina in which the members expressed satisfaction over the appointment of Sushma Chowdhary as the head of the Inter Ministerial team. The meeting expressed the hope that the State administration will put forth the genuine demands of the displaced community before the Committee. It also expressed concern over the irregular power supply in the camp and pitable condition of relief holders. Another meeting was held by Displaced Hindu Welfare Committee Camp Mishriwala under the chairmanship of R N Dhar. The meeting expressed the hope that the visiting team will take the initiative in redressing the grievances of the displaced people and prepare a plan for their rehabilitation. The meeting demanded that a special recruitment drive be launched for the displaced youth with grant of age relaxation in both Central and state government departments. Kashmiri Displaced Samiti Purkhoo camp in its meeting today held under the leadership of Krishan Ji Koul said that appointment of Sushma Chowdhary as the head of the Committee indicates the seriousness of the Government in resolving the problems of the migrants. |
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Sheikh alleges discrimination
with Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Sheikh Abdul Rehman, Ex-MP, after seeing off the first batch of Hajis from district Doda, has expressed great pain and anguish over callous attitude and step motherly treatment meted out to the Muslims of Jammu division, as they have to report first at Srinagar in their way to Jeddah for Haj pilgrimage instead of boarding at Jammu. In a statement Mr Rehman appealed the Central and State Government to make their return landing at Jammu and saving age old Hajis from torturous journey from Srinagar back to their native homes in Poonch, Doda or Kathua. During his tour of far off areas of Doda district a number of deputation met him and apprised about non-availability of BPL ration/sugar in the entire area. It was told that sugar has not been provided to them since May this year and that there was a big fraud in the distribution of BPL ration/ Antodya and Anna Purna schemes, if looked into properly. Mr Rehman asked the vigilance team of Chenab Valley Hill Development Council to prepare the date of ration denied to the people since May 2004 so that case could be referred to concerned authorities including Vigilance Organization or Crime Branch. He said several embezzlement and misappropriation cases including much publicised fraud case worth Rs 42 crore of Marwah, have surfaced in Doda district and gathering dust till date. He added that ration dealers who have to bear the carriage charges including loading and un-loading have not been paid by the Government for the last several months which can be one of the reasons for not providing rations to the public. |
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LPEF terms Govt-employees agreement as betrayal Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Representatives of all the districts of jammu province of All J&K Low Paid Employees Federation have endorsed the views expressed by Federation chief Abdul Majid Khan that the stage managed drama of strike, the agreement and the announcement of Government was a betrayal with the cause of employees and their genuine needs and aspirations. They said release of two DA instalments was assured by the Chief Minister to a delegation of Federation, but the so-called leaders of EJAC bargained the benefits which accrue from the merger of DA into basic pay and pension as according to to Government announcement the employees will get its benefits after March 2005 and HRA benefit after September 2005., which was contrary to what has been given to Central Government employees. They said further that issue of enhancing retirement age to 60 years has been shelved while daily wage rate has been increased to a meagre of Rs 10 that too for those who were employed before January 31, 1994 and nothing has been ordered about their regularization, despite the fact that thousands of daily wagers were appointed after January 31, 1994 by the Government but have been provided no relief. Besides the demands of the teaching community have not been conceded regarding restoration of their basic pay scale and initial higher start as also pending grievances of clerks, Class IV employees and personnel of other sections. They reiterated Federation’s firm resolve to continue the struggle for the achievements of the demands of the employees. |
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Stir enters 13th day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: While as the ongoing agitation by the students of Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET), Jammu, entered 13th day today, concerned Education authorities have claimed to discuss the demands of agitating students and issue necessary instructions. According to Director Colleges, Dr N D Wani, Education Minister Harsh Dev Singh chaired a high level meeting of officers of the Education Department wherein issues confronting the students and staff of GCET were discussed. The Minister authorised the concerned authorities of Education Department and Head of the Institute for providing necessary laboratory facilities, internet facility, expedite construction of new campus, provide funds for campus selection and arranging long education tour, he added. Mr Wani also informed that the demands of teaching fraternity were also discussed and Principal GCET was authorised to allow staff for attending short courses/conferences where there is no financial obligation. With regard to other demands of the faculty, Principal was assured that all the demands as put forth by the faculty shall be looked into and the decision taken at the earliest, he said. "As for the the demand for up-gradation of GCET to NIT is concerned, the matter has been referred to the concerned quarter for appropriate action," Mr Wani added. Meanwhile, on 13th consecutive day of their stir, GCET students continued the boycott of their classes and held a demonstration. Later they marched towards the underconstruction new campus at Chak Bhalwal and sought to know the reason behind slow pace of construction work there. On reaching at Chak Balwal, the Engineering students were shocked to see that no construction work has taken place for the last three months due to non-availability of funds for the same. The agitating students were being led by JJSF president Pushvinder Singh Manhas and Neeraj Singh (president of GCET Students Union). |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Ford India has rolled out a new segment in the passenger cars Urban Activity Vehicle (UAV) by flagging off Fusion from assembly lines at its integrated manufacturing plant in Maraimalai Nagar city. Ford’s latest offering to the Indian customer combines elements from different pedigrees of vehicles. Ford Fusion combines the solidity, robustness , practicality and road presence of a SUV and the dynamic, agile qualities of a mid size sedan to create India’s first Urban Activity Vehicle’. Ford is all set to revolutionize the passenger car industry in India with the launch of this new segment, having unique body style. The interiors of the UAV are people focused , spacious and practical with high seating for greater visibility while on the outside, its tough on road presence is confident, protective and compact. Wider and taller than mid size sedans, Fusion imparts a strong impression of purpose and strength. It has a high, proud bonnet line with a prominent grille and ‘ lozenge’ shaped large twin chamber, headlamps. Driver’s confidence is enhanced by deep windows and expansive front and rear windscreens, which offer exceptional visible. The raised body and the wheel design are optimized for tackling everyday obstacles like speed bumps and curbs. Large 15 inch wheels with design 195/60 R 15 Tubeless tyres complement the tough and sturdy appearance of the car. Fusion’s tough styling and increased ride height gives its driver the ability to see properly on crowded streets. |
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APS students protest, boycott classes Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Dec 18: Eleventh Class students of Army Public School here boycotted their classes in protest against the sacking of a teacher by the School Management and sat on dharna outside the office of Chairman of the school, Maj Gen R S Sharma today. The trouble started today after the students of Class 11th came to know that their English teacher, Mrs Mann has been sacked by the school management a couple of days back. It was learnt that the teacher had a minor exchange of arguments with the Principal, Mrs Rekha Singh during a staff meeting and the next day the English teacher was terminated from the services. Expressing resentment, the students in the morning came out of their classes to lodge their protest and marched towards the office of Chairman of the School Maj Gen R S Sharma. Though Principal, Mrs Singh tried to pacify the students and control the situation but she failed. After reaching Maj Gen Sharma’s office, the students sat on dharna as the chairman was not immediately available. Later, he intervened and listened to the grievances of the students and assured them positive action in this regard. The students even not bothered to sit in the half yearly exam, which was scheduled to be held today. Resentment was also brewing among the other teachers over the termination of teacher. They maintained that minor issue was blown out of proportion. Defence spokesman, Lt Col Sen (PRO) when contacted said that teacher, Mrs Mann was working purely on adhoc basis in APS Udhampur and it was the prerogative of the management to seek her services or terminate her. It was purely management decision and the students had no role to oppose it. He admitted that students moved to the chairman’s office and also protested against the decision but they were later motivated. He further maintained, quoting Principal that exam of the students could not be held today as several students did not turn up to school. FOI flays PDD for power situation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Federation of Industries (FOI), Jammu in an emergency meeting convened under the chairmanship of Kuldeep Dogra strongly flayed the apathetic attitude and step motherly treatment being meted out by the Power Development Department (PDD) authorities to the industrial sector of the Jammu region. Meeting observed that in spite of assurances by the PDD authorities during the last few months the actual ground reality was that the power supply has been going from bad to worst. "Since, last few days the industry as a whole have virtually been paralyzed due to non-supply of power. Industries on the whole consume 8 to 9 percent of the total power being supplied within the State but on the other hand, gives gainful employment to thousands of workers", the meeting observed and warned, "if the position of power does not improve industry will not be left with any other option rather than retrenching the manpower". Mr Dogra further apprised the members about the assurance given by the Prime Minister regarding improvement in the power infrastructure for the industries. He further stated that despite all assurances the concerned authorities have been giving 80 percent of power to Kashmir and 20 percent to Jammu region out of the supply State has been getting from Northern Grid. It was demanded that power should be equally distributed. The Federation of Industries appealed to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to intervene and restore power supply to industries otherwise the best of efforts put by the State Government in bringing this industrial revolution and side by side the investment made by the industrial in support of this industrial revolution will be endangered. The meeting was attended by Annil Suri, Ajay Gupta, AK Wadhera, Rakesh Bhat, T S Reen and others. Nisar for massive awareness
campaign Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18 : Minister for Sports and Technical Education Haji Nisar Ali today inaugurated one day State Youth Convention- World AIDs at Government Women College Prade, Jammu. The Convention was organised by the Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK) Jammu to educate the students about preventive measures against AIDS. Speaking on the occasion Haji Nisar Ali called upon the youth to untidily launch massive campaign to aware the people regarding hazardous effects of AIDS. Youth is the main potential to fight against such dreaded disease, he said adding that government would provide all possible assistance for educating people about measures to tackle spread of AIDS. The Minister said that the educational institutions could play a pivotal role in this regard and called upon the teaching community to provide moral and physical education to the students besides, curricular studies. He also suggested that non-governmental organizations should also extend their full cooperation to the youth for organizing symposia, debates and drama skits in rural areas as well as at public places like bus stands, railway stations, and slum areas. Experts from medical departments including Director AIDs Control and Prevention Society, Dr. Mohammad Amin Wani, Director Health Services, Jammu, Dr. Kilash Kholi, Director Family Welfare Jammu, Dr. Jasbir Singh and Head of the Department, Blood transfusion also spoke on the topic. Bajaj Allianz starts operation in Rajouri Excelsior Correspondent Rajouri, Dec 18: Continuing with its commitment to reach the every nook and corner of the state and to cater the financial solution needs of all the walks of the life, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance company Ltd, today opened its satellite branch office in Rajouri. Maj Gen G D Bakshi, GOC Romeo force was the chief guest and inaugurate the Bajaj Allianz office . D.C Rajouri Mohammed Abbas Dar and Jeetinder Kaushik, head of the sales and marketing J&K region was also present on the occasion. After inaugurating the function Maj Gen G. D Bakshi expressed that it is worth notable that the MNC's like Bajaj Allianz are now making its way to the rural areas like that of the hilly regions of the Rajouri- Poonch district and said that this indicated that how the environment is changing in these areas that big business groups are not feeling any hitch in operating in these areas. DC Rajouri also spoke on the occasion and expressed this heartfull greetings to the Bajaj Allianz group. He said that the coming of the big concerns like that of the Bajaj Allianz will definitely help in solving the unemployment and economic structure of the Rajouri district. He further added that the coming of the insurance giant like Bajaj Allianz will definitely help in providing insurance shelter to the rural folk of the district and to aware the people about the concept of the insurance and uncertainty. Mr Jeetinder Kaushik, head of the Bajaj Allianz group in the Jammu and Kashmir state while speaking on the occasion said that company has major expansion plans in the state to give the employment to the youth of the state. He further added that in the stint of the last one year company had opened its offices in the Udhampur, Rajouri, Srinagar and Jammu. He also informed that the company is also going to open about five more offices in the state in the coming few months. Mr Kaushik honored and thanked Mr Ram Bhola and Kuldeep Raj Gupta for becoming the first customers of the company in the Rajouri District. ADEWA bids farewell to retiring employees Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: Agriculture Displaced Employees Welfare Association (ADEWA) organised a function here today to bid farewell to its members who attained age of superannuation during the year 2004. The members who attained the age of superannuation during the year include R L Bamzai, P N Koul, A D Raina, K L Bhat, O N Koul, and Mangat Singh. O N Koul retd Joint Director was the chief guest on the occasion and R K Koul (retd D A O) was the guest of honour. The chief guest on the occasion presented mementos to the members who attained the superannuation during this year for their dedicated services to the Department. The speakers including Pankaj Handoo also wished them a happy and prosperous post retirement life . The proceedings were conducted by Pamposh Koul, general secretary of the Association and K K Bhan chairman of the Association presented the vote of thanks. Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: In its continued drive against illicit distillation of liquor, Excise Department made a series of raids in villages Deoli, Makhanpur, Bouli Chak, Salehar, Tara Chak, Kothey Salehar and Laswara. Four persons namely Joginder Pal of Deoli, Toshi, wife of Joginder Pal of Tara Chak, Babli, wife of Tara Chand of Tara Chak and Kashmira Devi or Makhanpur were arrested for possession of illicit liquor and cases were registered against them under Excise Act. Besides this 80 kg lahan was recovered from the State land and destroyed on the spot. The raids were conducted by Mohd Younis, Excise Inspector R S Pura Range assisted by Excise Inspector Excise (East) U K Koul and Inspector South Range Varinder Singh under the supervision of Nizam-ud-Din, ETO City Excise Range (North) Jammu. Wani distributes aid to artisans Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Mr. Abdul Majid Wani today distributed 179 cheques amounting to about Rs. 13 lakh as first installment among artisans of Doda under centrally sponsored Artisan’s work shed scheme. The amount would be utilized by the beneficiaries to contract sheds for handicraft activities. In addition, 300 more such cases under the scheme have been sponsored to financial institutions. The Minister was informed that at present there are 2274 artisans functioning in the district and their total income is about Rs.3 crore per annum. He was further told that the department is running 27 training centers both under plan and non-plan scheme where 1253 beneficiaries have been imparted training in various trades during the last two years. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Wani said that the handicrafts of the state are famous all over the world so the coalition government is committed to boost this industry and minimize the en-employment problem especially among the women living in urban and far flung areas. The District Development Commissioner, Doda while addressing the beneficiaries stressed the need for establishing joint ventures by forming self help groups. Harsh releases first computer magazine of KC International Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 18: KC International School today released its first computer magazine and inaugurated skating rink. The function was presided over by Minister for Education Harsh Dev Singh. Students displayed their talent while participating in Saraswati Vandana, learning by doing and in music and dance programme. In the talent hunt, the computer quiz was conducted by Regional Director SJIT Sunil Razdan and Kumud and Sunny Gupta were declared as winners. The latest software presentation was given by the students which was appreciated by all the guests. On the occasion, the first computer magazine "Brain Wave" which was fully compiled by the students, was released by the Minister. KCIS Skating Rink was also inaugurated by the Minister in the presence of Principal Nina Simon and distinguished guests and parents. Speaking on the occasion, the Education Minister appreciated the role of teachers in imparting the latest methods of education to the children and highlighted the work done by the school management. He went up to the extent in saying that KCIS was one of the best upcoming educational institutions in the State. The vote of thanks was presented by the KCIS Vice-Chairman Chaitanya Chowdhary, which was followed by the prize distribution. Mr Vinay Mahajan, Mrs Saroj Mahajan and Dr Shikha Chowdhary were also present on the occasion. |
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