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| Gen Vij inaugurates Dhruva Satellite Communication Network Excelsior Defence Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 22: Moving ahead with the advancement in the communication technology, the Army today connected three important military stations of Northern Command- Udhampur, Srinagar and Leh via Dhruva Satellite Communication Network.......more Massive
outcry against fee hike Excelsior Special Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 22: In order to assert with the government’s authority in the matter of stupendous hike in annual fees, Director School Education Kashmir, G A Pir, today directed ...........more EJAC
appeals Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: J&K Government Employees Joint Action Committee (GEJAC) which has given the call for two days strike on November 24 and 25 in support of various.........more PM’s
economic Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) today urged the people of the State to come forward and contribute for supplementing........more Abhiyaan’s
re-enactment Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: As part of the on going project on documentation, study and know the popularity..........more |
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Farooq
informs Union Home Minister about Kargil episode Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Giving a strict warning to the State Government against, what he called, playing with fire, former Finance Minister and National Conference Legislative Party leader Abdul Rahim Rather today said that his party will not hesitate to any extreme step if duly elected chairman of the Kargil Hill Development Autonomous Council (KHDAC) was removed undemocratic way..................more One
killed, 8 injured Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: One person was killed and eight others received injuries in separate road accidents while as two persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences..................more People to
people Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov. 22: The Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma flagged off 300 peace missionaries and activists from Jammu and Kashmir at an impressive Aman Mela organised by the Akhil Bhartiya Rachnatmak Samaj at Zanana Park here today..........more Cong will
not play at Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 22: Senior vice president of Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC), Abdul Ghani Vakil has said that Congress Party will never prefer to be supervenient to any one.......more |
Gen Vij inaugurates Dhruva Satellite Excelsior Defence Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 22: Moving ahead with the advancement in the communication technology, the Army today connected three important military stations of Northern Command- Udhampur, Srinagar and Leh via Dhruva Satellite Communication Network. Army Chief General N C Vij inaugurated Dhruva Wide Band Satellite Communication Network here today. General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Hari Parsad, Signal Officer incharge, Lt Gen Davinder Kumar were also present on the occasion besides other senior officers of the Command. Gen Vij reviewed the advanced communication features provided by this media of networking and officially dedicated Dhruva Satellite network to the Northern Command. A defence spokesman said that need for an army owned , secure satellite network has been a long felt necessity for the Army. Maintaining the communications using combat equipment entailed deployment of a large number of personnel and equipment all year round in inhospitableterrain and harsh weather conditions. Establishment of a satellite network has resulted into saving of precious manpower and equipment in addition to providing a highly reliable network communication. The Corps of Signals responsible for this initiative has once again affirmed its commitment and grit towards the application of the state of the art technology for the provision of operational communication for the army. Lt Gen Davinder Kumar said that self-reliance, security and operational necessity were the key to provision of the high technology and secure satellite communication. With the advent of this link , a floodgate of converging technologies in the form of secure intranet, Fax, voice, data and video conferencing are being made available for the army. Commissioning of this network has also bestowed a strategic advantage by connecting J&K with a robust survival media to the rest of the country. |
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Massive
outcry against fee hike Excelsior Special Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 22: In order to assert with the government’s authority in the matter of stupendous hike in annual fees, Director School Education Kashmir, G A Pir, today directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) Baramulla to take over the famous St Joseph School. Management of the 100-year-old Christian missionary school had recently ordered considerable hike in the fees of students. For the time in the school’s history, the Principal had also begun to charge a new "annual fee" of Rs 2,250 from the students. According to the management, the newly introduced fund-raising was aimed at promoting the utility services and extra-curricular activities at the school besides annual repairs and upkeep of the buildings. However, 2500 students of the school and their parents raised an outcry against the unprecedented hike in the "already huge" fees. As they complained the matter to the authorities, the Principal closed down the educational institute. Taking cognizance of the matter, DSE (K) today directed CEO Baramulla, vide Order No: 3935, to immediately examine its fee structure, income and expenditure, besides other accounts. He also directed the CEO to take over the school in case the management did not co-operate with him. St Joseph is one of the oldest missionary schools in Kashmir valley. It alumni include the slain Afghanistan President Najeebullah and senior officials and politicians of north Kashmir. |
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EJAC
appeals employees to observe total Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: J&K Government Employees Joint Action Committee (GEJAC) which has given the call for two days strike on November 24 and 25 in support of various demands of the State Government employees and pensioners has decided to announce the future course of action on November 25, the second day of strike. This announcement was made in the Action Committee meeting here, today. The meeting was chaired by Ghulam Nabi Telbali. Besides the members of EJAC from Jammu and Kashmir, the Coordination Committee of Civil Secretariat Employees Union also attended the meeting. A handout issued by the Action Committee said a complete strike will be observed on November 24 and 25 in response of the demands of the employees. In the meeting the GEJAC leadership made a fervent appeal to the employees asking them to observe the total strike and gear up for the further battle . It also appealed the general public , social organisations, Bar Association, youth organisations and Chamber of Commerce to exert their pressure on the Government to concede the just and genuine demands of the employees. The meeting blamed the Government for making false promises with the employees. It alleged that the Government has totally failed to come up to the expectations of the common man, particularly the State Government employees. It further alleged that the wrong policies adopted by the coalition Government have badly affected the salaried class who are finding it difficult to make their both ends meet. It said the level of inflation during last six months is the highest ever which has also been agreed upon by the Central Government in its statistics data. The meeting urged the Government to concede the genuine demands of the employees without further delay. The employees were demanding release of two per cent DA from January 2004 and three percent from July 2004, merger of 50 percent DA with basic pay on the pattern of Central Government employees, enhancement and uniformity of wages for all temporary workers, revival of LTC and enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60, scrapping of MOU for job freezing and providing of jobs to the unemployed youths. Total 31 members of EJAC and Civil Secretariat Employees Union attended the today’s meeting. |
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PM’s economic package will change fate of people: PDP Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) today urged the people of the State to come forward and contribute for supplementing the party efforts in the process of peace and development that was set in motion with the formation of the party. Addressing a press conference, senior vice-president of PDP, Rangil Singh said that the current turn around in situation and the formation of an atmosphere for peace, dialogue and economic reconstruction was a reflection of peoples’ mood and strong urge for a honourable and dignified life, which ofcourse ‘is a resolve of the PDP’. He said that this could become possible only because the people gave the party and present coalition arrangement a chance through a peace mandate in 2002 Assembly elections. While welcoming Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s ‘new vision of development for Jammu and Kashmir’, he said that Dr Singh’s visit to the State and his economic reconstruction plan will go a long way on boosting the process of peace and reconciliation in the State. "The economic package announced by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his two day visit to the State-the biggest ever announced by New Delhi, understandably aims at development and reconstruction plan that would certainly convert State’s economy into a normal, well functioning, dynamic and entrepreneurially active", he said, adding, "these were the areas, which could not get attention in the past, and this reveals that the previous governments were not able to plead the case of State’s economy before the Centre". He said that it was advantage of the people of the State that for the first time in the last 50 years, there was a government in place headed by Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, which has a policy of working above the regional considerations. "The Rs 24000 crore package announced by the Prime Minister is reflection of the State Government’s viewpoint", he said and added that PDP was committed for the equitable development of all the regions and sub-regions of the State. "The people of Jammu and Ladakh regions have always complained of the regional discrimination particularly in the matter of development. The PDP under the leadership of Mufti Mohammed Sayeed was shaped on the commitment of seeing the three regions with same eye this what the PDP had promised in its manifesto ‘, he said. |
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Abhiyaan’s re-enactment of Dogra rituals Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: As part of the on going project on documentation, study and know the popularity of native cultural practices in changing times, Abhiyaan, the Jammu based organisation, organised a detailed re-enactment of Dogra rituals associated with passage of rites from birth to death, at village Padror, near Pouni Chak. For the elders of Pouni Chak, the exercise revived memories when only few decades before, these rites were followed with a spirit where sacred was intertwined with a collective sense of celebration. Guided by the grand old ladies of the village, the rites like Reetaan, Vihai diarized to the last detail, were also recorded audio-visually. "The exercise other than giving a picture of state of practice and popularity amongst Dogra folk will also help Abhiyaan to make informative films on these rites for all those who have lost idea about the socio-cultural significant of the rites, ", said Shiv Dutt, Chairman, Abhiyaan. These films will not only be of archival value, but also act as instrument of revival of the traditional cultural practices. Thanking people of village Padror, who showed great enthusiasm for the project, Shiv Dutt, praised the support of Shamsher Singh, poet, and his family. The other participating members of Abhiyan included Shammi Malhotra, who recorded the details of the rites, Chaman Panthi and Yash Pal. Shiv Dutt, referring to other project regarding the revival of Dogra cuisine, said that after achieving success in holding cookery demonstration by master cooks, Abhiyaan will shortly hold three-day cookery demonstration of Dogra Cuisine for students. |
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Farooq informs Union Home
Minister about Kargil episode Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Giving a strict warning to the State Government against, what he called, playing with fire, former Finance Minister and National Conference Legislative Party leader Abdul Rahim Rather today said that his party will not hesitate to any extreme step if duly elected chairman of the Kargil Hill Development Autonomous Council (KHDAC) was removed undemocratic way. "We have solid information that local administration at the behest of State Government has hatched a conspiracy to dislodge chairman of the KHDAC, Qamoor Ali Akhoon- who still has majority in the Council", Mr Rather said while addressing a hurriedly called press conference at party headquarters today. "Out of 26 elected Councillors, chairman enjoys support of 14 ", he said, adding, "those four nominated councillors, who have been opposing the Chairman, have no right to cast vote in the election of chairman". "First, nominated Councillors have no right of vote and secondly the High Court, in its decision on November 20, has stayed notification which was issued by the State Government for their nominations", he pointed out and said that the Court in its decision has made it clear that Government notification ‘should not be acted upon". Quoting statement given by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kargil this afternoon, Mr Rather said that Government has been exerting pressure on DC Kargil to remove the Chairman by all means. "Despite order from the High Court, the DC, due to the pressure of Government, was adamant to give voting right to the nominated members", he said and termed this act as contempt of court. He said that contempt case in this regard has been filed in the High Court. Mr Rather said that Government has recently nominated four Councillors to the Council in blatant violation of the law and the rules governing the functioning of the Council. The former Finance Minister was of the view that by resorting to these un-democratic moves, the State Government was destablizing the otherwise peaceful Kargil region. He said that the people of Kargil district have already come on roads and were agitating against this undemocratic, un-constitutional and irresponsible move of the Government. "Such moves of the Government are bound to create serious law and order problems and alienation among the people, responsibility whereof shall lie solely on the Government", he said. Mr Rather has appealed to the Union Home Minister and State Governor to intervene in the matter urgently and save the situation from becoming worse. He disclosed that the party has decided to approach the Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha in this regard. National Conference Legislative Party leader also questioned the recent decision of the State Cabinet to supersede the duly elected Panchayats without any rhyme or reason. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Rachpal Singh, Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo (all MLAs) were present in the press conference. Meanwhile former Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah today spoke to the Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil and expressed his serious concern over the un-democratic and authoritarian act of the State Government to remove duly elected chairman of the KHDAC Qamar Ali Akhoon who enjoys support of majority of elected Councillors. According to a handout issued by the NC, the Union Home Minister assured Dr Abdullah that Court verdict in this respect would be followed in letter and spirit and nothing undemocratic will be allowed to be done in respect of duly elected chairman of the Council. |
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One killed, 8 injured in road accidents Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: One person was killed and eight others received injuries in separate road accidents while as two persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. Police spokesman said that one Rampaul, son of Phagu of Akal Satwari was killed after he was hit by a speeding CRPF vehicle at Karan Bagh. The critically injured man was rushed to Government Medical College Hospital where he was declared brought dead. Two persons—Ghani Ram of Malhote and Gurvinder Singh, son of Piara Singh of Miran Sahib received injuries in road accidents at Tikri and Gadigarh. Both have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be critical when reports last came in. Meanwhile, six persons were injured in separate road accidents at Channi Himmat, Bus Stand Jammu, Khanwal, Mareen, Paloura and Rajbagh. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. They have been identified as Rakesh Kumar, son of Jai Krishan of Kishtwar, Roshan, son of Surinder of Hirangar, Kartaro Devi, wife of Paras Ram of Mareen, Sunil Sharma, son of Kewal Krishan and Kimmi, daughter of Nawab Din of Billawar. Two persons—Ashok Singh, son of Manjit Singh of Sarore and Naresh, son of Romesh Chander of Gurwal Ramgarh allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. They were rushed to hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. 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. It could not be ascertained as to whether they intentionally consumed poison or swallowed the same mistakenly. |
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People to people contact will
strengthen Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov. 22: The Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma flagged off 300 peace missionaries and activists from Jammu and Kashmir at an impressive Aman Mela organised by the Akhil Bhartiya Rachnatmak Samaj at Zanana Park here today. These peace activists would participate in Aman Melas to be held at Jallandhar and Lahore on 23rd and 26th November respectively. Member Parliament Madan Lal Sharma inaugurated the mela while Minister for Science and Technology, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Zora presided. Addressing at the Aman Mela, Mangat Ram Sharma said that the peace process initiated by the two neighbouring countries for restoration of permanent peace and tranquility in the state will usher in a new era of peace and prosperity. Mr. Sharma said that we are eager to see the development of both the countries and mutual brotherhood between the people. He appealed the peace activists to remain disciplined and depict highest level of respect and love to the people in the melas. The Dy Chief Minister lauded the efforts of Didi Nirmla Deshpandey of Akhil Bhartiya Rachnatmak Samaj in organizing people to people contact and holding Aman Melas for realization of permanent peace by adopting Gandhian philosophy. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for PHE, Qazi Mohd. Afzal said that it gives immense pleasure that people from the state are going to take part in the Aman Mela at Lahore and they will carry message of hope and goodwill for the improvement of relations between the two countries. He prayed for the prevalence of peace so that militancy sufferers and general public could get maximum benefits of the developmental process in the state. Prof. Ram Nath Sashtri, a noted Dogri writer also blessed the peace activists and said that days of terror should go from the land of peace- Jammu and Kashmir- altogether. Nawang Rigzin Zora said that volatile situation prevailing in the state has to be defused for the establishment of tranquility. He commended the role of Didi Nirmala Deshpandey in bringing people of both the countries closer to one another. Various other prominent personalities from Kashmir also spoke on the occasion and hoped that the mission of participating in Aman Melas will defeat the forces of mischief mongers and vested interests. |
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Cong will not play at anyone’s tune: Vakil Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 22: Senior vice president of Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC), Abdul Ghani Vakil has said that Congress Party will never prefer to be supervenient to any one and nobody will be allowed to make the party to play at any one’s tune. Addressing one day political convention at Pulwama today, Mr Vakil said that Congress will play the role of big brother in the State Coalition Government and will make every effort to implement the Common Minimum Programme (CMP). He said strengthening of Congress in J&K state will serve the national interests and any kind of weakness of the Party will adversely effect the interests. Minister of State for Works, G A Mir hailed the announcement of Rs 24,000 cr package announced by Prime Minister for reconstruction of the State in various fields like power, tourism, fruit industry, sanitation, drinking water, education etc. This shows the seriousness of the Centre in helping the state on economic front. PCC secretary, Khem Lata Wakloo (MLA) appreciated the announcement of lifting the ban on recruitment by the Prime Minister which had been imposed by the previous Government. District unit president for Pulwama, Mohd Maqbool Bhat presided over the meeting. Others who addressed the meeting included— Abdul Majid Paddar, Mohd Anwar Bhat, Nazir Ahmed Bhat and Abdul Ahad. These leaders asked the party workers to keep a watch on the performance of ministers and intimate the high command time to time, otherwise, the party may face the fate of National Conference. |
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Zargar for finding reasons
in downfall of Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov. 22: Minister for agriculture and Cooperatives, Abdul Aziz Zargar today called for an in-depth introspection to see reasons for downfall of cooperative movement, which, otherwise has flourished in some other states of the country to the best satisfaction of the people. Speaking at the one day workshop on "Agriculture and consumer cooperatives" held here today in connection with centenary year celebrations (2004) of cooperative movement, the Minister said taking into account the glorious past of cooperatives the government has made a new beginning to revitalize cooperative movement for overall socio economic reconstruction of the state. Minister of state for agriculture, Ajaz Ahmad was the guest of honour at the function. Commissioner Secretary, Agriculture Production, B. B. Viyas, Special secretary Agriculture, G. N. Sofi, Registrar Cooperatives, Dr. G. A. Qasba, Chairman JAKFED, Mohammad Ayub Khan and Managing Director, JAKFED, V. C. Sharma and a galaxy of eminent cooperators were present. The workshop has been jointly organized by Jammu and Kashmir Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation Limited (JAKFED) and department of cooperatives, J&K with an objective to device ways and means for revival of JAKFED and other cooperatives institutions in the state. The Minister said we are at a critical stage of rehabilitating cooperatives in the state and the posterity would never forgive us if the movement could not still be revived. "Dead Wood is to be removed, if JAKFED has to retain the mandate of an apex level status of a federation", Mr. Zargar added. He promised rewards to the efficient and honest workers adding that unscrupulous elements would be dealt severally. The Minister also called for bringing professionalism, accountability and transparency in the management and working of cooperative institutions to restore credibility among the people. The Minister also called for taking latest technologies to the doorsteps of the farmers. He urged the need for constitution of advisory boards for promotion of horticulture and agriculture on modern lines. He called for strict enforcement of quality control measures to enable state withstands stiff market competition. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad called for reforms in the administrative and management of various cooperative bodies. He urged the need for providing basic agriculture inputs and facilities to the farmers at their doorsteps. B. B. Vyas on this occasion said that the government in order to restore democratic character of the cooperative institutions would shortly announce a time bound programme for elections. He said, before elections are held, cooperatives should undertake internal house keeping. Eminent cooperators, Ganesh Dass Bakshi, D.P.Khajuria, Director, Agriculture Jammu, Vinod Bala Sharma, Vice President, J&K Cooperative Union, Registrar cooperatives, General Secretary Cooperative Union delivered thought provoking speeches on role of cooperatives in agriculture development. |
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Woman, paramour held for killing man Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 22: The mysterious disappearance of a man turned out to be a murder after about two and half months, with the arrest of his wife and her paramour, allegedly having executed the killing. Giving details, SSP Udhampur Vijay Singh Sambyal said that on September 12, one Mohd Din of Chak Rakhwalla lodged a missing report of his son—Abdul Hamid with Police Station Rehmbal. He informed the police that his son, a labourer, had gone to earn livelihood on September one and did not turn up since then. After lodging missing report, police started investigation on different theories and came to know that Abdul Hamid had estranged relations with his wife Hameeda Begum, daughter of Feroz Din of Hartyan and Hameeda wanted divorce from Abdul Hamid to which the later was not willing. In the run of estranged relations and refusal of Hamid to give her divorce, Hameeda developed illicit relations with Mohd Raiz of Chak Rakhwala, paternal cousin of Abdul Hamid and maternal cousin of Hameeda. "Due to illicit relation between Hameeda and Riaz the situation became more grave and Abdul Hamid started beating and torturing his wife", the SSP said, adding even Hamid directed Riaz not to visit his house. But Hameeda and Riaz kept on meeting each other regularly and due to their illicit relations a male child was born about two and half years ago. Since it was not possible for Hameeda and Riaz to enter into legal wedlock, they hatched a conspiracy to eliminate Abdul Hamid. As per planning, during the intervening night of August 31 and September one, Mohd Riaz and Hameeda eliminated Hamid and buried his dead body in a nearby jungle. When the brother-in-law of Hameeda enquired about the whereabouts of Abdul Hamid, she told him that he had gone for earning livelihood and has not returned. "After preliminary investigation, Rehmbal Police took both Hameeda and Riaz into custody and during questioning they confessed having eliminated Abdul Hamid", the SSP Udhampur said and added that on their disclosure the body of Abdul Hamid was also recovered from the forest areas of Chak Rakhwalla in presence of Magistrate and civil witnesses. |
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Work on Anantnag mega complex takes off Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Nov. 22: Minister for Tourism and Urban Development, Ghulam Hassan Mir today laid foundation stone for Rs. 10 crore mega commercial complex at Anantnag town in south Kashmir. The complex first of its unique design in the valley coming up at SRTC yard in the heart of the springs would be completed within four years on self- financing basis as a joint venture of Anantnag Municipal Council and Directorate of Local Bodies, Kashmir. Member Parliament and PDP President, Mehbooba Mufti, Ministers of State, A.R. Veeri and Abdul Gaffar Sofi, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Baseer Ahmad Khan, Director, Local Bodies Kashmir, Mr. Vinod Koul besides senior civil and police officers and prominent citizens of the town were present on the occasion. In his address the Minister for Tourism and Urban Development said that the active participation of the people of urban areas could yield result oriented benefits and for this purpose the election to the Municipal Bodies and Local Body units is imperative. Mr. Mir said that comprehensive plan for the overall development of historic town Anantnag to project it as show window of the valley has been formulated and the implementation of this integrated plan would be accelerated. Member Parliament and PDP President, Mehbooba Mufti in her address appreciated the people of south Kashmir for their visionary efforts in bringing the change in the Government despite heavy odds and braving the arduous situation. Referring to the local demands, Ms. Mufti said that several public interest assets like south university complex, garbage disposal management plant, commercial-cum- shopping plaza besides improving basic facilities and civic amenities in the town have been accorded top priority as thrust areas. Minister of State for Home, A.R. Veeri enumerated the steps taken by the coalition Government for sustainable and balanced development of all the areas. Minister of State for Health, Abdul Gaffar Sofi projected several public interest demands of Anantnag, Bijbehara, Kulgam, Mattan, Achhabal, Kokernag, Verinag, Dooru and Qazigund towns. Earlier, the Director Local Bodies, Kashmir, Vinod Koul in his welcome address presented salient features of the mega commercial complex, Anantnag consisting five floors with semi-basement meant for parking of light vehicles and said that the complex would be raised on two blocks. He said the commercial complex has been designed in accordance to the present day needs and modern facilities. |
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BJP against revival of autonomy issue in State Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Taking strong exception to the suggestion of the Union Home Minister, Shivraj Patil that the issue of autonomy should be reviewed, the senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Prof Chaman Lal Gupta said that no nationalist can think even the reversal of the integration process as the so-called autonomy and special has already caused lot of damage to the country and the people of Jammu and Kashmir have to suffer heavily because of unbridled powers to the elements having communal mind-set and despotic approach. He said that any reversal of the integration process would mean to reward terror and bullying tactics. This would encourage the separatists tendencies which would ultimately lead to more problems to the already vexed issue in Jammu and Kashmir. Prof Gupta recalled that such like confused policies adopted at the very time of accession of this State to Indian union, had led to many barriers between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India. To get demolished these signs of separatism, the Praja Parishad and Jan Sangh, led by Pt Prem Nath Dogra and great patriot Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the nationalists made tremendous sacrifices and Dr Mukherjee and several others had to sacrifice their lives for the cause of unity and integrity of the country. He said that like other 558 princes of the country, late Maharaja Hari Singh had used his legal right to accede to Indian Union but one fails to understand that uncalled for conditions were tagged to this accession which was legally final. The BJP leader said that Pakistan has no locus standi in Jammu and Kashmir and it would be wrong to link it with the peace process and autonomy issue. The protagonists of autonomy should first explain that what are the grounds for it if they believe in secularism and are having no communal considerations. Mover, it one part of the country is granted greater autonomy on communal considerations, why are others and then where would go the basis principles, he questioned. As for as dialogue with Pakistan is concerned first of all life and security of the people should be ensured as cross-border terrorism is still claiming eight to ten lives daily of innocent persons. If peace is restored much of the problems between the two neighbours would be solved in an atmosphere of goodwill as the peoples on both sides have common culture and they want peace and harmony. |
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Bajwa announces Rs 40 lakh for Poonch district Excelsior Correspondent POONCH, Nov 22: Senior PDP leader and Rajya Sabha member Trilok Singh Bajwa along with senior leader of party, Master Tassidiq Hussain conducted an extensive tour of the Poonch district and addressed series of public meetings. During these meetings, Mr Bajwa announced an amount to the tune of Rs 40 lakh from his Constituency Development Fund for the development of Poonch district. He announced Rs 15 lakhs for Mendhar, Rs 15 lakh for Poonch constituency and 10 lakhs for Surankote constituency. Addressing the public meetings, Mr Bajwa highlighted two years achievements of the coalition regime headed by Mufti Mohammed Sayeed. He said that on the one hand coalition regime has accelerated development process while on the other hand efforts for lasting peace in the State has been started. He said that peace initiatives initiated by both India and Pakistan were result of the programmes and policies being propagated by the PDP since its formation. He termed peace initiatives as vindication of the stand of PDP. Rajya Sabha member said that coalition regime under the leadership of Mufti Mohammed Sayeed has given special attention towards development and upliftment of the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri. He pointed towards some projects started in these two district. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Kawa Institute today celebrated its annual day by organising a function full of thrill. Minister of State for Tourism Jugal Kishore Sharma inaugurated the celebrations by lighting the traditional lamp. He, while speaking on the occasion, appreciated the efforts of Kawa College in making educational available to the youth of the State at through away cost by opening its institutions at different places. "Kawa has been helping students to establish their career in the fields of Information Technology, computers, management and journalism", Mr Sharma said. Chairman of the Kawa Group, M S Katoch said that show was purely arranged and organised by the students of the Kawa, who are studying in different classes and courses at different locations. "We believe that a degree alone cannot serve the purpose. Therefore for overall development of the students we are organising cultural programmes, sports meets, quiz competitions, seminars and workshops", he said. The students of the Kawa mesmerized the audience with their Bhangara, skits, mimicries and solo dances. This year the students of Kawa Institute Dharamshalla also participated and presented their cultural items. MLA Basohli Kanta Andotra, MoS Transport Raman Bhalla and MoS Sports and Youth Services Yogesh Sawhney were also present on the occasion. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: ATM of the J&K Bank was inaugurated by Mrs Farida Kapur, president AWWA 16 Corps, at Ratnuchak Cantonment area, today. With this the number of ATMs of Jammu and Kashmir Bank have gone up to 25 in Jammu and 144 across the country. Mrs Kapur desired that the jawans and their families should be educated about the functioning and handling of ATM so that they have not to carry cash when they visit their home towns. Mr SC Sharma, Deputy General Manager (T) of J&K Bank, while speaking on the occasion, assured of best possible service to the clients throughtout the country. Mr Sharma said with the start of Global Access Cards of the bank, the banking services are available through 4700 ATMs of different banks throughout the country as well as 1.5 lakh ATMs through out the world. 2nd batch of troops leaves Kashmir SRINAGAR, Nov 22: As a part of de-induction, the second batch of troops left Kashmir valley this morning from the old-airfield rengreth. "We are leaving the Kashmir valley, the heaven on earth, with a heavy heart," said the soldiers while loading their baggages in the truck. "This was my first visit to Kashmir valley and I was expecting to see the snowfall during the winter," said a soldier who hails from south. "Though it was a bit cold for us as winter has already set in but we were still enjoying our stay here," the soldier told a group of reporters before boarding the vehicles for Jammu. The troops deinduction started on November 17 when the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrived here on his maiden two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. The first batch of troops left from Khanabal in South Kashmir where a large number of civilian besides senior Army officers were present on the morning of November 17. A senior Army officer told reporters that the process of troops deinduction would continue. It was the part of the Prime Minister’s announcement for troops reduction in the state. However, he refused to give further details for operational reasons. (UNI) Harsh congratulates JU, colleges authorities Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Education Minister, Harsh Dev Singh has congratulated the University of Jammu and the colleges of J&K for the unique distinction conferred upon them by International Organisation of Standards (ISO) and the UGC. He expressed satisfaction that the Jammu University had received international recognition and had achieved the rarest distinction of becoming the country’s first ISO certified university. Describing the ISO certification as a great achievement, Mr Singh said that this was the biggest ever leap towards becoming a global centre of excellence. He said that such a certification would not only attract foreign students and ensure mutual exchange programmes with other top universities of the world but also assist in proper placement of the products of the University. Mr Singh said that establishment of Internal Quality Assessment Cell, Internet facility, Information Desk and continuous improvement in services and process during the last two years had catapulated the University as a great centre of excellence besides giving it world wide accreditation by virtue of 9001 certification. Complementing the Vice-Chancellor and his team of dedicated staff, the Minister exhorted them to work for greater excellence and to ensure that quality enhancement remained a continuous endeavour on the campus. He said that there was now a greater obligation on all members of the University not only to maintain the high standards but make all out efforts for further improvement as ISO was a continuous process of consolidation and progressive development on all fronts. He further complimented the four other colleges including Govt. B.Ed Colleges of the State, Bemina College and Islamia College, who too have been accrediated by University Grant Commission’s NAAC team and have been awarded the highest grades of B++ and A level. He said that inspection of these colleges were held in August-September this year and their reports have been released by NAAC wherein all these four colleges have been given high grading and all getting institutional scores from 75 percent to 90 percent. He said earlier also, seven colleges had been got inspected by the NAAC and they too have been accrediated by the UGC amongst the best colleges of the country. These colleges included GGM Science College, M A M College, Women College, Gandhi Nagar, SPMR College of Commerce, Women College, Parade, Women College, M A Road Srinagar, Govt Degree College for Women, Anantnag, Amar Singh College and Govt. Degree College, Kupwara. Complimenting the educationists and the officers connected with the reforms process in education, he said that efforts needed to be intensified so as to transform the state into global centre of excellence. IWDP workers protest, demand regularisation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Daily wage employees of the Integrated Watershed Development Project (IWDP) held a massive demonstration in front of the office of Project chief, Mr Tiwari at Narwal and demanded justice in favour of about three hundred daily-rated workers here today. The workers have launched a protest dharna in favour of their demands which entered 36th day today. The workers from Ramnagar IWDP project, Akhnoor project and Rambiara project are on the agitational path. They alleged that project chief and the concerned Ministry was adamant to throw them out despite the fact that a large number of them were working for more than 14 years now with Watershed project. Laxman Singh, president Ramnagar unit of the project, Ganesh Dutt president Akhnoor project and Mohd Shafi from Rambiara project addressed the gathering and urged upon the Minister for Forests and Environment Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi to intervene and regularise the daily rated workers. They said about 270 workers were engaged in 1990 for various units of the project namely— soil conservation, civil works, agriculture, horticulture, forestry and sheep husbandry. A government order terminated all the appointments in 1994 however, they were later retained lending their regularisation claim. A high level Empowerment Committee in its 169th meeting in June 2003 decided that daily wagers be regularised. The case was forwarded to the Forest Ministry to implement the decision but nothing happened. Meanwhile, several INTUC leaders R S Raina, Jugal Kishore and Devinder Singh sat on dharna with agitating workers and threatened to launch hunger strike. Sofi for people’s participation in afforestation programme Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Underlying the need of people’s participation in the centrally sponsored projects in afforestation programme, Minister for Forests and Environment Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi today stressed for mass involvement of people in various activities in Chenab and Ujh projects launched under Prime Minister National Afforestation Programme. The Minister was speaking while reviewing the functioning of the projects in their respective areas. Minister of State for Forests and Environment Thakur Puran Singh was present in the meeting. Underscoring the need of plantation of orchard plants in these project bound areas, Mr. Sofi asked for providing quality plants to the people from registered local nurseries. He said that horticulture officers should verify quality of plants taken for nurseries. Mr. Sofi said that the direct involvement of the people in execution of the projects be rotational rather than repeating the contracts annually. He also called for arranging wood fencing from department owned woodlots and rather depending on supplies from SICOP, which he said would save a lot of money. While giving the resume of projects, Chief Coordinator said that under Chenab Basin Project, the area covered in 2003-04 is 1133 hectares on which Rs. 1.11 crores were spent. He said about 1.75 lakh forestry plants, 24551 fruits plants, 20000 agro plants were planted. Similarly, 9 Farm pounds, 823 structures, 65 crates 50000 trenches were constructed during the period. While as in 2004-05 about 637 hectares were covered, in which 240 hectares were fenced, upto ending October 2004. Similarly 4 Farm ponds, 12089 structures, 258 crates, 20000 patches, 11000 trenches were constructed. In Ujh project about 772 hectares were covered upto ending October 2004, the meeting was told. Bhalla lays foundation of various projects Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 22: Maintaining that Coalition Government has top most agenda to provide basic amenities of life to all sections of society, the Minister of state for Consumer Affairs, Public Distribution and Transport, Mr Raman Bhalla has asked the public to voluntarily help the agencies engaged for realization of their dreams in true spirit. Mr Bhalla was speaking while laying the foundation of various projects in Gandhi Nagar locality, which included improvement in drainage and electricity system besides shingling and black topping of the roads. He also inspected parks and gardens and said that Government has made available adequate quantity of fertile soil for the proper growth of plants in the gardens and parks and asked the people to cooperate the Government for their proper upkeep. He asked engineers to complete all the works within specific time frame and said that no bad workmanship would be tolerated saying that only quality material be used for the longevity of the structures. While addressing series of public meetings, the Minister said that on the persistent demand of the people, Blood Bank and computerized reservation facilities have been made available in Gandhinagar and more medicare facilities are being added soon. Mr. Bhalla said that to ease the traffic on the roads, a new traffic system through automatic lighting system would start functioning in the City of Temples in order to minimize the accidents. He said that adequate funds have been made available in all the sectors and vigorous efforts are underway to provide more basic amenities to the people. Earlier, a large number of deputations and individuals made representations to Mr. Bhalla asking for facilities like improvement on the roads, streamlining the traffic system and upgradation and improvement in the schools. He gave them patient hearing saying that it is people’s elected Government and all their difficulties and problems would be solved in a phased manner. |
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