|
|
| Mufti visits SPS museum, calls for preserving heritage Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: Stressing the need for merging the rich heritage of Kashmir into its splendid beauty, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has said that all out efforts would be made to preserve the cultural heritage of the state. The Chief Minister visited the SPS Museum at Lal Mandi this afternoon......more Siddhi
jewellers’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Siddhi jewellers from Mumbai have organised week long unique gold forming jewellery exhibition at K C Residency in Jammu city commencing from today...........more HC orders
release Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: The salary of the Staff of the Higher Secondary School (Boys) Kathua, which was not drawn since August 1994, has been ordered to be released by the State High Court......more Niharika
Naidu sings all-time hits from Hindi films Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Organised by Department of Student Welfare, University of Jammu (JU), the musical evening by Niharika Naidu, was an entertaining affair...........more Bharat
Vikas Parishad Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Bharat Vikas Parishad, Gandhi Nagar branch held Guruvandan Chhatra Abhinandan programme in seven schools of Gandhi.......more |
 |
Cong
committed to Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: President of J&K Pradesh Youth Congress, Mohd Amin Bhat has stressed that the party was committed to provide 33 per cent reservation to women............more ‘Register
FIR against MP, brother’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Charging Lok Sabha Member Ch Lal Singh and his brother Rajinder Singh alias Babbi with threatening innocent people, the State unit of Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) today demanded curtailment of the security being provided to the former Health Minister as, according to BJP, the duo has let loose a reign of terror...............more Kakapora
to come Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: A model village at an expenditure of Rs. 4.5 crore would be constructed at Kakapora, Pulwama. The village would be developed on modern lines and equipped with every facility including education, health care, safe drinking water, road connectivity, communication, employment avenues etc. the village would present the vision of a progressive and advanced.............more Sonu Nigam
inaugurates Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Famous singer Sonu Nigam inaugurated Maa Vaishnodevi Gas Agency at Channi Himmat, here today................more |
Mufti visits SPS museum, calls for preserving heritage Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: Stressing the need for merging the rich heritage of Kashmir into its splendid beauty, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has said that all out efforts would be made to preserve the cultural heritage of the state. The Chief Minister visited the SPS Museum at Lal Mandi this afternoon. Reaffirming that the museum would be shifted, Mufti Sayeed said a state of the art Cultural Centre would soon be built in Srinagar which would be equipped with the latest preservation technologies. The Chief Minister went round the various sections of the museum and took keen interest in the artefacts kept there. He was also briefed on the model of the proposed Cultural Centre to be built at a cost of Rs. 36 crores. The centre is expected to house a museum, library, art gallery and auditorium and would be equipped with the latest technologies for preserving these artefacts. On this occasion Mufti Sayeed asked the officials of the Archaeology department to make use of the latest and modern technologies of preservation in vogue in rest of the country. He asked for specialisation of various sections of the museum on the lines and pattern of National Archives, Delhi. He also suggested recruitment of skilled professionals and career advancement of the present employees of the museum. Later the Chief Minister also went to see the proposed site at Hari Niwas complex where he asked the designers and other officials to make the proposed Cultural centre a model of Kashmiri, art, culture and heritage where all the facets of Kashmiri culture would be on display and it would be an easy attraction for the tourists as well. Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Vijay Bakaya, Secretary J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Ramesh Mehta and Director Information Farooq Renzu accompanied the Chief Minister. |
 |
Siddhi jewellers’ exhibition in Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Siddhi jewellers from Mumbai have organised week long unique gold forming jewellery exhibition at K C Residency in Jammu city commencing from today. Marketing head of the concern, Mehul Lodhiya told newspersons during a press conference that Sidhi has exhibited regularly in Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, Baroda, Udhaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Patiala, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Agra, Noida, Meerut, Kanpur, Dehradun, Bhopal, Ujjain, Indore, Raipur, Nagpur, Puna, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Nasik and thus has covered most of Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP, MP,Punjab, Maharashtra. The company has not entered Jammu for the second time. He further disclosed that main motive to organised such exhibitions is to create awareness among people, what is gold forming. He said most of the jewellery has been been made in copper and few in silver as well in the forming of gold as done through electroplating, required by different ornaments that is one gram, two grams etc. It has been started with just bangles in pairs, it has now got a huge range in chains, bracelet, manglasutras, pendal, tops, necklacesets, in half as well as full sets. In response to a question, Mr Mehul said all the jewellery is available in plain gold, oxidized, antique, jadtar and also studded in kundan polki, cutstone in multicolour and American diamonds. He said a good response this time has been observed in Jammu and last time during week long exhibition. |
|
HC orders release of salary of Hr Sec School Kathua staff Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: The salary of the Staff of the Higher Secondary School (Boys) Kathua, which was not drawn since August 1994, has been ordered to be released by the State High Court. Justice Permod Kohli in his order observed that " as far the dispute involved in the writ petition is concerned, that can be decided inter-se parties. However, salary has to be drawn and disbursed to the employees. In view of the matter, it is clarified that the officer who was functioning as Drawing and Disbursing Officer before passing the interim order dated August 9, 2004, shall draw the salary and disburse to the staff" The court, however, cleared that this should not confer any right upon the officer unless permissible under the interim order" It may be mentioned here that the Government in an order had transferred then Principal Dilsher Singh from Higher Secondary School ( Boys) Kathua and in his place appointed Kulbir Singh. The new incumbent had joined on July 31, 2004. The earlier Principal Dilsher Singh challenged his transfer order in the High Court and the court as an interim, stayed the Government order on August 9, 2004 subject to objections from the other side. Therefore, since August 2004, no salary was drawn by either of the Principals and staff was without salary for the last two and a half months. |
|
Niharika
Naidu sings all-time hits from Hindi films Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Organised by Department of Student Welfare, University of Jammu (JU), the musical evening by Niharika Naidu, was an entertaining affair. Held at the JU auditorium, the programme was a contrast from the recent performances of classical dance and vocal recital in the same campus. Today’s musical evening saw Niharika Naidu regaling the audience, especailly the students, with all-time popular songs from Hindi films. Clapping and singing which went along the singing of popular songs of Hindi films form 1950’s onwards, created an atmosphere where every one seemed to participate in the musical fare dished out by the singer. Niharika Naidu, who was accompanied by an orchestra comprising of octopad, synthesizer, drums and electronic guitar, sang songs in many languages including Dogri and Punjabi. One who comes from army background, Niharika Naidu, a student of Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior, has had training in classical music from Jiwaji University, Gwalior. An accredited AIR artiste, she has given live concerts in different pasts of the country and abroad including USA, UK, Canada, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Scotland, France et al. She has also given play back for Hindi and Punjabi films besides cutting discs for various music companies. Addressing the audience at the start of her performance, Niharika Naidu, referred to the tension and unrest which prevails all-over the globe, and reiterated that peace was the need of the times. Then she begin her recital with Lata Mangeshkar’s well known song ‘ Allah tero naam, Ishawar tero naam. Today programme presided by Prof Amitabh Mattoo,Vice Chancellor, JU was attended by students and faculty members of JU. A group of delegates from Denmark, who are visiting the city of temples in connection with an academic interaction were also present on the occasion. Prof Devinder Singh, Dean Student Welfare and Dean Academic Council, JU, delivered the welcome address. The programme was conducted by Sh Vijay Atri. |
|
Bharat Vikas Parishad organises function Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Bharat Vikas Parishad, Gandhi Nagar branch held Guruvandan Chhatra Abhinandan programme in seven schools of Gandhi Nagar area. Object of holding this programme is to induce inedible cordial relations between teacher and taught as now a days respect by the students for parents as well as teachers is deteriorating day by day. Main object of the programme was to revive the traditional status of Guru and Shishya. During this programme best teacher and best student were honoured. In today’s contest students and teachers from seven school participated. Five students and one teacher from St Zinnia’s Public High School, Luthra Academy, Rose Public School, Tiny Tots and Bloom Public School were honoured while as 35 students and teachers from Government Higher Secondary School Boys-Gandhi Nagar and five students and one teacher from Jyoti Public School honoured. Principals of all schools presided over the function. Santosh Gupta, general secretary GVCA explained the theme behind this programme. Prof S C Anand, Satyanand Sharma, R N Gandotra, Prof Shiv Kumar Sharma, Ved Raj Goswami, Arun Sharma, Arun Goswami also spoke. |
|
Cong committed to provide reservation to women: Bhat Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: President of J&K Pradesh Youth Congress, Mohd Amin Bhat has stressed that the party was committed to provide 33 per cent reservation to women. Addressing a meeting of Mahila Youth Congress, held at party headquarters, here, Mr Bhat said that the State Government was taking all out efforts to create employment avenues for unemployed educated youth, development of Jammu and Kashmir and upliftment of poor and downtrodden people of the State. He expressed his satisfaction over the functioning of the coalition Government and said that the healing touch policy of the Government has provided much respite to people of the trouble torn State. Stressing that women have a pivotal role to play both in politics and domestic affairs, Mr Bhat said women must be given 33 per cent reservation and they really deserve it. He also exhorted women activists to work hard to further strengthen the party as Congress is the only party which can fulfill expectations of people and solve their grievances. The meet was also addressed by PCC president Peerzada Mohd Sayed and Minister for Social Welfare, Mula Ram. |
|
‘Register FIR
against MP, brother’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Charging Lok Sabha Member Ch Lal Singh and his brother Rajinder Singh alias Babbi with threatening innocent people, the State unit of Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) today demanded curtailment of the security being provided to the former Health Minister as, according to BJP, the duo has let loose a reign of terror. The party also demanded that criminal cases should be registered against Kanta Singh, wife of Ch Lal Singh and Babbi for assaulting BJP workers at Mannu polling station. Addressing a press conference here, state president of BJP, Dr Nirmal Singh alleged that during election campaign as well as during polling, Ch Lal Singh and his ‘Goondas’ had threatened people. He charged that district administration was ‘hand in gloves with these Goonda elements’ in terrorising the people. BJP president also smelt some foul play in recent bullet injury to Ch. Lal Singh and alleged that the MP received injury from a smuggled revolver but the matter was hushed-up by the administration. "We have authentic report that a suspicious persons from Doda were accompanying Ch. Lal Singh and they were reportedly fiddling with smuggled revolvers", he said and asked, "why treatment was given in a private nursing home? Why MLC was not made for that case?". Coming down heavily on Ch. Lal Singh for mis-using official machinery, Dr Singh demanded curtailment of the security being provided to the Lok Sabha Member as, according to him, he has been using his security cover to accomplish his nefarious designs. "The way Lal Singh has brazenly misused his security to rig by-election in Basholi Assembly constituency is a clear indication that he has been mis-using official machinery", he said. When his attention was drawn towards terrorist attacks on Ch. Lal Singh, BJP president did not hesitate to say that attack could be ‘ managed’ to get adequate security for accomplishing nefarious designs. BJP leader also touched the issue of Jai Shree Hotel and demanded dismissal of the Minister concerned, who is owner of the hotel, for impartial inquiry. "It is just a tip of ice-berg, Ministers of the coalition regime have crossed all records of corrupting during the last two years", he said. BJP leaders namely Pawan Gupta, Pawan Khajuria and Ashok, who were attacked by Lal Singh’s workers also spoke in the press conference. |
|
Kakapora to come up as model village Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: A model village at an expenditure of Rs. 4.5 crore would be constructed at Kakapora, Pulwama. The village would be developed on modern lines and equipped with every facility including education, health care, safe drinking water, road connectivity, communication, employment avenues etc. the village would present the vision of a progressive and advanced village of 21st century This was informed today by the Minister for Rural Development, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed during his visit to the Pulwama district to make a review of work under various schemes of Rural Development Department. Director, Rural Development, Kashmir and other higher officials of the department accompanied the Minister. Peerzada also informed that a large shopping complex in the vicinity of Kakapora Block Development Office would be constructed shortly with the Panchayat funds. The shops would be rented out to the unemployed youth of the area to make them earn their livelihood. The Minister also inspected ongoing work of a foodgrain store and a multipurpose community centre at Kakapora. Addressing the gathering there, the Minister reiterated the commitment of coalition government to bring every development to the people residing in the villages and the far-flung areas. He said that J&K still has agriculture based economy in the state can only progress through the prosperity of its villages. Efforts are on to create innovative employment avenues in the ruralities and give financial as well as technical support to the entrepreneurs there. He mentioned about self employment schemes of the Rural Development Department including SGRY and SGSY. The Minister visited various development works undertaken by the department in the Pulwama district including foot bridges, lanes, drains, health care centres, minor roads, school buildings, community toilets etc in the panchayat halqas of Gangoo, Murran, Mitergam and Romo village. It was informed by the Block Development Officer, Pulwama that 16 panchayat ghars, 10 school buildings and 2 multipurpose centres have been constructed in the block Pulwama during current financial year. At the same time, 20 new houses are being constructed and 15 houses are upgraded under Indira Awas Yojna in the district. |
|
Sonu Nigam inaugurates Maa Vaishnodevi Gas Agency Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Famous singer Sonu Nigam inaugurated Maa Vaishnodevi Gas Agency at Channi Himmat, here today. This Bharat Gas Distributorship will cater to the needs of various areas like Channi Himmat, Sainik colony, Trikuta Nagar. It is provide home delivery and also through internet. He was accompanied by the noted producer Vikas Mohan. Both of them arrived here after participating in the Navratra Festival being held at Katra, base camp of Vaishnodevi pilgrimage. It may be recalled that Mr Sonu Nigam has sung many popular songs besides acting in various films. He was anchor and sole brain behind the famous TV serial " Sare Re Ga Ma " Senior Sales Manager, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Pawan Gupta was present in the function. |
|
CM reviews Ramzan arrangements Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today asked the divisional administration to ensure the availability of all essential commodities to people during the ensuing holy month of Ramzan. Chairing a high level meeting to review the stock and supply position on the eve of Ramzan the Chief Minister asked the concerned officers to make available uninterrupted supply of mutton, vegetables, poultry, sugar and all other essential commodities. The Chief Minister took a detailed briefing from the officers of the Power Development Department (PDD) and directed them to ensure uninterrupted current supply during peak hours of Sehri and Iftar. He also directed the concerned engineers to draw power from the Northern gird, if need be besides starting the Pampore Gas Turbine. He asked the PDD authorities to ensure optimum use of electricity so that no area suffers in the holy month due to overload. Mufti Sayeed directed the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to constitute market checking teams in the city and various districts of the Valley. He also asked the Police to give co operation to the civil administration in checking hoarding and black marketing of essential commodities. He specifically asked Police to undertake checking of Petrol Pumps for adulteration of Petrol. The Chief Minister asked the officers of the Forest Department to make firewood available for local mosques so that the Nimazis do not face any problem during Sehri and Tarawih times. Earlier the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Khursheed Ahmed Ganaie gave an overview of the stock and supply position in the Valley. |
|
EME celebrates 61st Raising Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME), a technical Corps of India Army celebrated its 61st Corps Day today. The celebrations include Special Sainik Samellan, a cricket match -cum- bara khana, officers mess function and variety entertainment programme. The Corps has provided massive support to multi-disciplinary weapon system and equipment of the army with dedication during ‘Operation Parakaram’ and in the on going counter insurgency / counter terrorist operation. The Corps has demonstrated technical excellence, ingenuity and adaptability to repair and recover the equipment in one of the world’s most difficult mountain terrain in Northern command. The dedication and courage demonstrated by soldier craftsmen in the battle field is highly commendable. EME units have always lived up to their reputation and associated themselves with repair and maintenance of hi-tech, multi-disciplinary weapon system, information technology, communication, and aviation equipments both in field and peace conditions. The battalion has always kept the motto of the Corps ‘ Karm Hi Dharam’ flying high in all scenario. Corps of EME has always been in the forefront in sports and adventure activities in the army. Its sportsmen continue to win laurels at the highest levels. |
|
FMD Baramulla employees all set
to resume Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: After staying idle for more than 18 years the employees of Flood Mechanical Division (FMD) Baramulla, are all set to work again. Courtesy: the decision of the present coalition government to make the FMD functional after making a fresh investment in reviving the decaying machinery available with the Department. Senior officials in the FMD say that machinery worth rupees 70 cr is rusting, as there is no work to be done. Besides, more than 200 employees of the division are getting their salaries without doing any work. The machinery, which is presently available with the department, includes two dredges, two dozers, one crane and one excavator, besides other relevant machinery. According to conservative estimates-if the machinery and the staff available with the FMD are put to work, the department can earn an amount of Rs 10,000 as revenue per working hour." FMD is one of the few engineering departments, which can generate revenue for the government. If the government is serious and exploits the department to its full potential we can provide revenue worth crores," says an official of the department requesting anonymity. To start with the FMD has asked for a sanction of Rs 582.50 lacs for repairing the machines, which have been rusting from the last 15 years. The department has initially asked for a release of Rs 39.50 lacs under the first phase out of the total amount needed for repair work. "We are waiting for the approval from the Finance Ministry so that the FMD starts work at an earliest," says Qazi Mohammed Afzal, Minister for Public Health Engineering. " The plan has already been approved and it is a matter of only a few months when FMD will see its revival," adds the Minister. The FMD was allotted dredging of River Jehlum from Seer to Khadinayar in Baramulla. The department deployed heavy machinery in 1962 to carry out the work. But after a period of more than 20 years work on the project was stopped in1986. Insiders in the department say that work was stopped ignoring the fact that dreading is vital for the survival of the Kashmir Valley. Experts believe that the deposits in the river can cause a heavy damage, as the valley is prone to floods. These experts opine that under no circumstances can excavations work be stopped as water bearing capacity of river Jehlum can see a tremendous reduction and this according to them can prove to be detrimental for the whole Kashmir Valley. According to officials in the Irrigation department dredging work done by the FMD-using machinery-was stopped for other reasons also. These officials allege that excavations was stopped to please a ‘lobby’ of engineers who had developed a ‘vested interest’ in manual de-siltation. Officials also point out that records about manual operation were tempered with, which resulted in many engineer’s making hefty amounts. Officials of the FMD also admit that the stoppage of the dredging process gave way for continuos floods in valley during the last decade in addition to a revenue loss-because no sale of sand earth excavated by way of dredging could take place. Officials also admit that the machinery available with the FMD if used for dredging can excavate 3700 cubic feet of sand per hour. The sand if put to sale can fetch a revenue of Rs 18000 to the FMD. Officials say that the machinery used for dredging and excavation can be run on an hourly expenditure of about Rs 5000 only, thus the provision of earning profit from the excavation is quite high. |
|
Ist Jatha of Ravi Dass Society leaves for Dera Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: First Jatha of more than five hundered devotees of Guru Ravi Dass Society under the supervision of Swami Gurdeep Giriji Maharaj left for Dera in a train from here today. A grand function is being organised in connection with the Shaheedi Diwas of Swami Jai Gopal ji Maharaj at Dera Swami Jagat Giriji Maharaj (Pb) on Oct 16. As desired by the Guru Gurdeep Giri ji Maharaj, a bandhara is also being arranged on Saturday. A large number of devotees are arriving at Dera to pay their obeisance to Swami Jai Gopal Giriji. |
|
People living near forest areas to get solar energy cookers Excelsior Correspondent Handwara, Oct 15 :To lessen pressure of firewood extraction on forests, the Government has decided to provide solar energy cookers to the population living near the forest area in the state. This was announced by the Minister for Forests and Environment, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sofi at a seminar on Forest Protection organized by J&K Non-Gazetted Forest Officers Association at Sultan-ul-Arfeen Environment Hall in Handwara yesterday. Describing continuous extraction of firewood and timber as a great threat for the survival of the forest green cover in the state, the Minister said that the solar energy gadgets for cooking and lighting would considerably decrease the pressure on the forests. He said various villages in the different forest divisions have already been identified for introducing the unconventional solar energy appliances. He, however, said that the objective of preservation and conservation of natural resources can not be realized unless the people both general public and those holding public offices consider it as their moral responsibility. He said it is we people on whom onus the state lies as we have to save its resources for coming generation. Mr. Sofi said that it is for the first time that government involved local people including those who use to eak their livelihood by illegally cutting of forests, in the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes meant for afforestation on degraded forest areas. Responding to the demands of the Association, Mr. Sofi said that the stagnation in various cadres was cleared in two years. He said he has issued strictures to the department to finalize all seniority in every section of the department and effect the promotion. |
|
Brothel busted in
Shakti Nagar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Police today busted a brothel being run in a house at Shakti Nagar area and arrested five persons including constable of IRP 6th battalion this evening. Police sources said that on a specific information a police party from Bakshi Nagar Sub-Division led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Tanveer Jeelani under the supervision of SP City North Prabhat Singh conducted a raid at House Number 196 in Shakti Nagar locality and arrested five persons including two girls. The house was being used as a brothel by Ram Dayal Mehta, son of Dina Nath Mehta of Akhnoor and presently residing in the said house. When the raid was conducted two rooms of the house were bolted from inside while Ram Dayal Mehta was sitting in the third room. On forcible opening of the rooms, police found two girls in compromising position with two males and all were immediately arrested. From the rooms, a number of condoms and bottles of liquor were recovered. All were immediately taken to custody and brought to Bakshi Nagar Police Station for questioning. A case under Immoral Trafficking Act has been registered against them and further investigations were on. The sources said that the house was being used as brothel by Ram Dayal for the past quite sometime and raid was conducted today on a specific information about the presence of customers as well as the girls. The customers have been identified as Utam Kumar, a police constable of IRP 6th Battalion and son of Tara Chand of Uddaywala and Krishan Lal, son of Isher Dass of Krishna Nagar. The identity of the girls has been established as Nishu Rani (24), daughter of Jagdish Raj of Krishna Nagar and Rita Devi alias Ritu, widow of police constable Amarnath. |
|
J&K Bank holds car loan mela at Gandhi Nagar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: A grand car loan mela was organised by Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited here today at Dussehra Ground, Gandhi Nagar. For the first time all the car dealers participated in the Mela. A total of 9 stalls were put up by car dealers in addition to the staff of MetLife India Insurance and Bazaz Allianz. All models of all types of cars were displayed at the stalls by the car dealers. The J&K Bank had put its own stall were on spot sanctions were provided. Even documentation was completed in many cases on spot and deliveries of cars were also made during the Mela itself. The Mela was inaugurated by M D Dassari, regional director, Reserve Bank of India, Jammu. Mr Dassari after inaugural ceremony visited all the stalls and interacted with the dealers. He handed over keys of four vehicles of different models to four beneficiaries in the morning after inaugurating the Mela. He had all praise for the fine arrangements made by the Bank and appreciable public response. Hundreds of people visited the Mela and 164 vehicles were sanctioned on spot by the Bank. Deputy General Manager (T), S C Sharma welcomed Mr Dassari and informed that similar Melas were organised at Batote, Kathua and in principal cities in the Valley where public response were quite encouraging. In the evening, B L Dogra and M L Mahajan, directors of the Board of the J&K Bank visited the Mela and delivered sanctioned to the beneficiaries. They handed over keys of 15 vehicles to beneficiaries in a colorful function at the Mela site. Senior executive of the Bank including S A Khan, general manager, A K Mehta, joint general manager, S D S Jamwal, Dy. general manager also visited the Mela. |
|
PAC pulls up PHE Deptt for
causing Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 15: The Public Accounts Committee today lambasted the PHE Department for sanctioning a contract to JKPCC on higher rates and causing huge losses to the state exchequer. The PAC that met here today with Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari in chair, discussed the Draft Paras of CAG’s Report for the year 2001-2002. The committee seriously viewed the mismanagement of the PHE Department. The committee observed that the department had invited tenders for 1 MGD capacity water treatment plant at Haran Sherpathri in October 1999, but did not complete the contract formalities in time, that resulted in delay in the completing of the project. Consequently the department allotted the said contract to JKPCC at their wish and caused a huge losses to the government. The records reveal gross negligence of the department proceeded in the matter steadily and didn’t take finely measures to same the government money. The committee has decided to call the members of their contract committee to explain the reasons for this peculiar situation. The committee would also recommend the government for fixing the responsibility on erring officers. The meeting was attended by Shahjehan Dar, G. M. Jan, Ashwani Sharma, Zahoor Ahmed Mir, Mrs. Farida Mir, legislators, Secretary, PHE, Atul Dulloo, Deputy Accountant General, Srinagar, DG, A&T, M. A. Lala and senior officers of PHE and Assembly secretariat. Usman Majid calls on Home Minister Excelsior Correspondent New Delhi, Oct 15: Usman Majid, Minister of State for Planning and Development called on Union Home Minister Shiv Raj Patil here last evening. During half an hour meeting they discussed the over all situation of Jammu and Kashmir with special emphasis on the multi Party coalition Government and implementation of Common Minimum Programme to consolidate achievements during last two years of elected government. Discussing the political situation in the state after the dialogue process between India and Pakistan Mr. Majid hailed the efforts of Union Government for carrying on the dialogue process and the desire of bringing peace to Jammu and Kashmir state. Minister of State urged the Union Home Minister that need for a comprehensive dialogue with all the sections including the secessionist groups need to be carried forward as it represents the over whelming desire of the people of the state who exhibited determination to restore peace and put an end to violence that has taken on heavy toll. The Union Home Minister said that he favours the comprehensive dialogue with people of Jammu and Kashmir state. The J&K Minister also urged that the measures to step up the process of Socio Economic Development in the state needs to be strengthen and pleaded that special provisions for revamping of Industrial Units should be given to Jammu and Kashmir and existing industrial estates should be upgraded with focous on improving quality of infrastructure facility and the product produced. He requested that the investors should be motivated to invest in Jammu and Kashmir state and open big industrial units. The Jammu and Kashmir Government will provide all security and other facilities to them. Mr. Usman Majid told the Union Home Minister that the state of Jammu and Kashmir has suffered a lot during last 15 years of militancy and our educated youths are unemployed. He said that ever since the coalition government came into power in the state there has been perceptible change in the security situation and the Union government should now take measures in the developmental activities and the security related huge expenditures should now be utilized in the developmental process. The security forces should also extend their Sadbhawna and other people related programmes and help in providing facilities like drinking water, roads, bridges schools etc. The Minister of State for Planning and Development requested the Union Home Minister that the Prime Minister during his forth coming visit to Jammu and Kashmir state should announce a special social economic and political package to Jammu and Kashmir state so that more and more people can be brought back into the mainstream and peace restored. Infant killed as wall of petrol pump collapses Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: An infant was killed and another received severe injuries due to the collapse of a wall while as a man found died under mysterious circumstances at a mosque. This apart, eight persons were injured in separate road accidents. Police spokesman said that an infant was killed and another received critical injuries when wall of a petrol pump collapsed near Kathua town today. Both the critically injured infants were rushed to District Hospital Kathua where one of them was declared brought dead. The condition of injured was stated to be critical when reports last came in. The deceased has been identified as Preeto while the injured is Babu, children of a labourer Raj Kumar of Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, eight persons were injured in road accidents reported from various parts of the Jammu division. The injured have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. The injured are—Vicky, son of Romesh Lal of Kabir Colony, Sanjeev Sharma, son of Chander Mohan of CBA Colony, Paramjit Singh, son of Jaswant Singh of Gole Gujaral, Jaswant Singh, son of Balkar Singh of Bishnah, Heema Sharma, daughter of Ashok Sharma of Janipur, Sham Lal, son of Om Parkash of Nowshera, Mohan Lal, son of Nand Lal and Mushtaq, son of Shoqkat Ali of Bari Brahamana. Body of a man—Bashir, son of Jamal Din was recovered from a moque at Nandian Darhan under mysterious circumstances. Police has initiated proceedings under Section 174 CrPC. A woman—Rajni Devi, wife of Jyoti Sawroop of Bishnah died after she consumed poisonous substances. She was rushed to hospital in Government Medical College Hospital but she could not fight for her life and died today. It could not be ascertained as to whether she intentionally consumed poison or swallowed the same mistakenly. 20 actors, back stage artists felicitated at KP Sabha Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Renowned theatre personality and Sahitya Academy Award winner Moti Lal Kemo has stressed on developing and creating cultural units and dramatic clubs in the camps. Addressing an award giving ceremony at K P Sabha here this evening to the actors and back stage artists who performed in the Kashmiri Play Shaap, he said this is the only way to keep the culture and language alive. Mr Kemo said theatre has an important role to play in the renaissance of culture and language and the younger generation especially students should not shirk from participating in it. The function was chaired by T N Khosa, president, Kashmiri Pandit Sabha Jammu. He, while hailing the contribution of Mr Kemo said he played a great role in revival of the culture in J&K. Mr Khosa said it was Kemo who revived Kashmiri Hafiz Nagma, Damali (folk dance of Kashmir) and Band Pather (folk theatre). He said Mr Kemo projected these performing arts outside the state and after his retirement from Government service he remained associated with Sabha directing our cultural programmes. It may be recalled that the Kashmiri play Shaap was also directed by Mr Kemo. On the occasion 20 actors and back stage artists were felicitated and presented cash awards. Later a heart throbbing cultural and musical programme was [presented in which child star Manak Raina played Raag Hamant on Staar. It was followed by Kashmiri folk tunes on flute. Kashmiri rouf presented by Sunita Raina and the artists who participated in the Shaap and Chakri (song) by artists from Migrant Camp Purkhoo enthralled the audience. The function was also attended by a galaxy of artists and writers. J&K Bank organises Loan Mela at Katra Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: On the occasion of ‘Navratra Festival’, the Jammu and Kashmir Bank organised a Loan Mela at Katra, which was formally inaugurated by Rohit Kansal, Additional Chief Executive Officer of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The said Loan Mela will meet the financial requirements of citizens of Katra for their financial requirements and will conclude on October 22, 2004 with the closing ceremony of Navratra Festival celebrations. The Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma, Minister for Tourism, Jugal Kishore along with other dignitaries and prominent citizens also visited the stall put up by the Bank for ‘Loan Mela’. They appreciated the management for the Bank for organising such a Mela. The Deputy Chief Minister, in his speech, said that the Bank under the stewardship of its chairman, M Y Khan has attained all heights and the Bank is also known not at national but at international level also. S C Sharma, Deputy General Manager while welcoming the high profile dignitaries, elaborated the aim of setting up a stall for Bank’s Loan Mela and informed that the Bank has developed several new products in retail segment for business class in general and the salaried class in particular, which include Home Finance, Consumption Loan, Consumer Financing and Car Financing on easy terms and the Mela has been organised with the intent to sanction such cases instantly the same day provided the complete required information for the purpose is furnished by the customer to the Bank. Drivers, Traffic Police cops clash at Asia Crossing Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Drivers of R S Pura route buses and Traffic Police personnel today clashed at Asia Crossing under the jurisdiction of Gandhi Nagar Police after a bus driver was challaned for violation of rules. The tension errupted when Assistant Sub-Inspector of Traffic Police challaned driver of a R S Pura route bus for using pressure horn. The driver—Darshan Kumar refused to pay challan amount to the ASI and entered into verbal dual with him. The ASI was also joined by the other cops and after the heated exchanges both the driver and the ASI thrashed each other. However, due to the intervention of some persons the driver of the bus got separated and asked to leave the spot. On reaching the Ware House Bus Stand, the driver brought the matter to the notice of co-drivers and conductors, who decided to block the road at Asia Crossing. They took their vehicles at Asia Crossing and blocked the traffic by parking the vehicles there. The drivers and conductors also shouted slogans against the Traffic Police and demanded stern action against the ASI and other traffic cops for assaulting Darshan Kumar. On the receipt of information, a police party led by SDPO Gandhi Nagar Shiv Kumar Chouhan and SHO S S Sambyal also reached the spot and tried to defuse the situation. Even Minister of State for Finance Babu Singh, whose vehicle was also trapped in the traffic jam, tried to defuse the situation but all in vain. Later, the police used mild lathicharge to disperse the protesting drivers and conductors. While the drivers lodged a complaint at Gandhi Nagar Police Station that traffic cops misbehaved with Darshan Kumar, SP traffic S D Singh told the Excelsior this evening that ASI and other cops were beaten up by the drivers for demanding amount of challan. Govt to construct Pahari hostel at Kupwara: Khan Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 15: State government will soon construct a Pahari hostel at Kupwara and in Jammu to provide hostel facilities to the students of Pahari speaking community. While addressing Pahari convention at Tangdhar, Kandi and Titwal in Kupwara, vice-chairman of the State Advisory Board for development of Pahari speaking people, Shabir Ahmed Khan said that a land piece of 6 kanals has been acquired at Kupwara for the construction of hostel for Pahari students of far flung area of the district. Another hostel at the cost of Rs 1.50 cr is being constructed at Jammu and the work will start soon. Mr Khan further said that demand for grant of ST status to the Pahari speaking people has been pending consideration of the Centre. The State government as well as the leaders of Pahari Culture and Welfare Forum and the Congress Party has taken up the demand with the Central leadership time and again and hoped positive outcome of the same. The proposal for sanctioning a separate sub-plan for development of Pahari speaking of people is under active consideration of the State Government. The people complained about lack of basic facilities , unemployment, dilapidated conditions of roads and healthcare. The people appreciated the role of army and local administration who, they said, take care of them during any kind of emergency and healthcare and render all possible help to them. A colourful cultural programme was also presented on the occasion. Heritage Cell organises
extension lecture Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: Prolonged interaction of Muslims with the locals resulted into fusion of cultures which laid the foundations of new traditions and composite culture in the history of Indian sub-continent. This was stated by Prof Iqdedar Hussain, Professor of History in Aligarh Muslim University, while delivering his second extension lecture on ‘Development of Composite Culture in India’ at Jammu University, here today. The lecture was organised Heritage Cell, JU. The reputed scholar of History highlighted the factors that played important role in giving rise to a culture which sustained the polity over the centuries and remained source of inspiration for the generations. In his presidential address, former Vice-Chancellor of JU, Prof M R Puri, lauded the efforts of Heritage Cell for organising extension lectures on important subjects having contemporary relevance. He also spoke at length about the lecture and praised the learned scholar in giving distinct treatment to the subject. Earlier, Prof Zahur-ud-Din, convenor of the Cell, presented a welcome address and highlighted the aims and objectives of the Heritage Cell. Dr Shohab Inayat Malik conducted proceeding of the extension lecture and appreciated the efforts of Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo for encouraging such types of activities on the campus. Human genetic diseases centre to come up in Leh Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 15: An Awareness camp on "human genetic diseases" is being organised for the first time in Leh from October 15 to October 18. It will be jointly organised by Human Genetic Counseling and Research Centre, Government Medical College and Jammu University. It is for the first time that a camp on genetic disorders is being organised in Leh. The camp will start from October 15 and last five days. It will, however, be formally inaugurated by Science and Technology Minister Rigzin Zora on October 17. The camp is being funded by State Council for Science and Technology Department, J&K Government in collaboration with Rashtriya Vighyan Evam Provbogiai Sanchar Parishad, Government of India. Dr Subash Gupta, Professor Jammu University and Dr T R Raina from Government Medical College, Principal Investigators of this project along with a team of Research Scholars will deliver lecture in the camp and make people aware of human genetic diseases. There are chances that a centre on human genetic diseases may be started in Leh in case it is funded by some Government agency. Approximately, about 5,000 human genetic diseases have been discovered in the world. Their number might go upto 10,000. |
|
| home | state | national | business| editorial | advertisement | sports | |
