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| Steps listed for beautification of
city No new tax on Jammuites : JMC Mayor Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) Mayor Kavinder Gupta has announced that no new taxes will be imposed on people within the Municipal limits despite initiating series of steps by the Corporation for beautification of the city of temples......more Unauthorised
construction at Patnitop Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Chief Justice SN Jha and Justice SK Gupta, in a much publicised Public Interest Litigation ( PIL) filed against the unauthorised.......more SVO
registers case Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: State Vigilance Organization has registered a case FIR No.2 of 2005 under section 5(2) P C Act 2006 Bikrami, read with 120 RPC against the members of Selection Committee.........more Tral
residents want Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Mar 31: When the first Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus will start to wheel out on Jehlum valley road on April 7th.......more Valley
gearing up to URI, Mar 31: Notwithstanding militant threats to target the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service, Kashmir valley is fast gearing up........more |
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Nation
values valour of Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) S K Sinha today said that the Nation greatly values the outstanding contribution of ex-servicemen and said their welfare is responsibility of all............more VAT stir
enters second Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Trading activity remained paralysed in Jammu and Kashmir as the bandh called by traders against implementation of Value-Added Tax (VAT) entered the second day today........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Minister for Power Mohd Sharief Niaz today said that there was no violation of Indus Water Treaty committed by India over Bhaglihar hydel power project over Chenab river in Doda and despite hurdles from Pakistani government, the first phase of this 450 MW project would be commissioned in June this year.............more Centre
ready to sanction Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed today announced on the floor of the Assembly that the Centre has agreed to sanction a package to the tune of Rs 74 crore for the rehabilitation of displaced border people.......more |
Steps listed for
beautification of city Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) Mayor Kavinder Gupta has announced that no new taxes will be imposed on people within the Municipal limits despite initiating series of steps by the Corporation for beautification of the city of temples. "If implemented properly, funds and schemes of Ministry of Urban Development Department are sufficient enough for beautification of Jammu city and hence there is no proposal by JMC to impose new taxes on Jammuites atleast for one year" Mr. Gupta said while addressing his maiden press conference, here today, since. The Mayor said the Corporation may think of imposing Property Tax at the rate of rupee one per square foot from the next year. "But at present, there is no proposal for any new tax," he reiterated and even announced slashing of rent of the Corporation property to the the tune of 50 per cent, recently increased by the JMC authorities. Mr. Gupta stressed that Corporation’s main aim is to provide best sanitation services to the people of Jammu. "Besides erection of GAIL sponsored two hundred twin-bins in the city, the Municipality has decided to involve NGOs in sanitation of the city ward wise," he informed adding that in the first instance, the sanitation work of Nanak Nagar and Janipur area were being given to NGOs on experimental basis. He said that setting up of new dumping centres for garbage disposal, signal lights on road crossings, development and beautification of parks with private participation, erection of Jammu guide maps, renovation of Parade Ground and construction of an overhead parking site on General Bus Stand are among the steps being taken by JMC for beautification of the city. "JMC has also decided to construct a ‘Dharamshala’ (Inn) near the Exhibition Ground with an intake capacity of 5,000 pilgrims, especially for Amar Nath pilgrims and open a 10+2 school with modern educational facilities at Chatha for providing free education to the children of below poverty line families," he disclosed claiming that work in this connection would be started very soon. The JMC is setting up a public grievance cell to receive the complaints if any. JMC is also creating its website and computerizing the manual system for issuance of birth and death certificates, the Mayor said. He also hoped that the State Government would release adequate funds for the development of Jammu city. |
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Unauthorised
construction at Patnitop Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Chief Justice SN Jha and Justice SK Gupta, in a much publicised Public Interest Litigation ( PIL) filed against the unauthorised construction and encroachments on forest land at Patnitop area, has directed Senior Advocate DC Raina, appearing for the PIL, to implead Commissioner-cum-Secretary Housing and Urban Development Department as a party in the case. The DB observed that vide order dated October 8, 2004, Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority, Divisional Forest Officer, Executive Engineer R&B, Assistant Commissioner Revenue and SSP/SP of the concerned area were directed to submit report on the points mentioned. The report has been submitted which points violations. It was directed that Commissioner Forest Department, Commissioner Housing and Urban Development and Divisional Commissioner Jammu should submit the response to indicate as to what the action has been taken or proposed to be taken within a period of two weeks. The DB directed the Registry to list this case after two weeks and supply the copy of the report to Advocate Mayank Gupta appearing on behalf of the respondents for onward transmission to concerned authorities. |
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SVO registers case against selection committee members Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: State Vigilance Organization has registered a case FIR No.2 of 2005 under section 5(2) P C Act 2006 Bikrami, read with 120 RPC against the members of Selection Committee constituted in the year 1999 by the Chairman, Service Selection Board for appointment of Junior Assistants, district cadre Doda. The case has been registered pursuant to the directions passed by High Court Jammu in SWP No. 1566 of 2002. Earlier the Vigilance Organization Jammu had conducted a preliminary enquiry into the matter of alleged bunglings committed by the Members of the Selection Committee while making selection of Junior Assistants and submitted its report to the High Court, called for by it in the same petition. On the basis of said enquiry report the investigating agency established prima facie case of mis-conduct against the Selection Committee which illegally conferred undue benefits on as many as 9 selectees. The said Selection Committee comprised of Harbans Singh, Member SSB as convenor selection Committee, Ghulam Nabi (the then junior Employment Officer Doda), J D Kapoor (the then Superintendent ITI Doda) and M Y Hamdani Evaluator Expert (the then Private secretary to Chief secretary). The nine beneficiaries are Reeta Devi, Gulshan Ara, Shabana Malik, Mehboob Akhtar, Shakti Devi, Kuldeep Singh, Vijay Kumar, Ranoo Devi and Sharda Devi. |
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Tral residents want reopening of Shikargah Road Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Mar 31: When the first Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus will start to wheel out on Jehlum valley road on April 7th, Tral township in south Kashmir will rise up in protest and observe a complete shutdown. The people here are not averse to the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service but they will be trying to register their protest as their long pending demand of re-opening the Tral-Shikargah road has not been fulfilled so far by the Government. "The Tral-Shikargah road is a vital link between more than 10 villages and the Tral township. This road has been closed by security forces from the last 15 years, bringing lot of hardships to the residents of the area," says Mushtaq Ahmad Shah, President, Traders Federation Tral. "We have tried our best to get the road opened but we have failed as no one including the political leadership has bothered to rid the residents of the troubles they have to face because of the road closure," adds Mushtaq. Interestingly, the Tral-Shikargah road is the only direct road link that connects villages like Pinglish, Hoju, Haina, Chidibook, Rathsun, Shikargah, Laribal, Saimu, and Haripari Gam with the Tral township. People living in these villages, who quite often have to come to Tral have to travel a distance of 20 kilometers to reach Tral. While as the Tral-Shikargah road reduces this distance to mere five Kilometers. "The closure of the road means lot of trouble for us. We have to waste lot of time to come to tral, which otherwise was possible in just twenty minutes," says Nazir Ahmad Rigoo, a resident of Pinglish village, who is also the Secretary of the Tral Traders Federation. "Our requests of re-opening the road has borne no results and now we have decided to observe hartal on April 7th, the day when the historic Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service will start its operation," adds Nazir Ahmad. "The closure of this road has not only deprived many villages of a direct road connectivity but has led to the area being innored. The effected villages have seen little development and business in the area has seen a drastic reduction," says Nazir Ahmad. What has been the most worrysome factor for the residents of the area is that even people who need immediate medical help are not able to reach the Sub-District located at Tral. "Lot of people lost their lives because they could not get timely medical help because of the road blockade," says Irshad Ahmad Kar, another resident of the area. "The Government should act quickly and open the Tral-Shikargah road because when the sensitive road like the Jehlum valley road is opened, there is no logic to block the road that connects various villages within a same district," adds he. |
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Valley gearing up to welcome guests on inaugural bus URI, Mar 31: Notwithstanding militant threats to target the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service, Kashmir valley is fast gearing up to welcome the guests on the inaugural bus from across the Line of Control on April 7. The repair and widening of roads from Baramulla to this border town, 17 kms from the Line of Control, is in full swing as the D-day for arrival of the first passengers from Muzaffarabad to Srinagar in nearly six decades was fast approaching. Army, Border Roads Organisation and State Public Works Division were working as a team to meet the deadline for the opening of the highway, now being known as Jhelum Valley road. Special focus was being put on smoothening the 17-km stretch from Uri town to Kaman bridge, the last point on Indian side, which had deteriorated considerably at the peak of hostilities between India and Pakistan when cross-border shelling was routine of the day. Four militant organisations yesterday has issued threats to people not to board the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus as it was against the interests of "freedom struggle" in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a ploy to harm the jehadi (militant) movement. Unfazed by the threats, the administration is busy giving a facelift to Uri town and areas falling along the 45 kilometre road between Baramulla and Uri towns. Most of the rooftops of the houses and other buildings along the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road have been painted in green, a colour associated with prosperity. Even fencing of some security forces camps and orchards in the area have been painted in green. The newly elected Municipal Committee of the town has demolished ten encroachments as part of the beautification drive of the town. The PDP-led Coalition Government, which has sought credit for the opening of the road, has also put efforts in sprucing up Srinagar city with fresh paint being applied to road crossings and pedestrain walkways. Several facilities for the benefit of the passengers on the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road like customs and immigrations building and tourist reception centre at Salamabad are also being completed. The bridges, which were mostly in bad shape prior to the announcement of bus service, have been repaired and made motorable and were being decorated to lend some cheer to the four-hour journey of the passengers across the Line of Control. The State Government and army has erected several boards and hoardings along the road to welcome the people from other side of the Line of Control. The messages on the hoardings seem to make a statement as well on the secular and democratic nature of the system in the State and in the rest of the country. ‘Welcome to the Baramulla, the city of all religions’ reads one of the sign boards put up by the Army. Most of the sign boards emphasise the need for peace, prosperity and friendship between the two sides of Kashmir and in rest of the sub-continent. (PTI) |
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Nation values valour of ex-servicemen: Governor Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) S K Sinha today said that the Nation greatly values the outstanding contribution of ex-servicemen and said their welfare is responsibility of all. At a get-together with ex-servicmen at Raj Bhavan this evening, the Governor said that the services of ex-servicemen need special recognition by the society as a whole. Gen Sinha expressed the hope that the Rajya Sainik Welfare Board and other agencies related to the welfare of ex-servicemen would work in synergy in mitigating problems faced by them and their families. The Governor met every ex-officer individually and recalled the days in Army and serviing with them in various capacities. The ex-officers expressed lauded the endeavours of the Governor in looking after their welfare and were particularly elated over the proposed installation of the Dogra warrior General Zorawar Singh in Jammu. This will go a long way in boosting the morale of serving and retired officers and personnel, the felt. In an informal chat with the Governor, the Director Rajya Sainik Board, Brig (Retd) K S Kotwal briefed him about various measures being taken for the welfare of the ex-servicemen. These include raising of sainik sarais and other infrastructure all over the State. He said Rajya Sainik Board is endeavouring to reach out to the ex-servicemen and widows of deceased soldiers to ensure redressal of their problems. He said financial assistance in the shape of scholarships, assistance to war widows in penury, medical assistance, marriage of daughters etc. is being provided besides helping in sorting out problems in pension cases etc. Prominent among the decorated officers present at the get-together was Maj. General G S Jamwal and former Health Minister, R S Chib and Principal Secretary to Governor, Dr Arun Kumar. |
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VAT stir enters second day, chemists too observe strike Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Trading activity remained paralysed in Jammu and Kashmir as the bandh called by traders against implementation of Value-Added Tax (VAT) entered the second day today. The bandh was complete in all parts of Jammu as well as Kashmir with shops and business houses remaining closed. Even in the outskirts, there was total bandh on the second consecutive day. Today medical shops also remained closed across the State against the implementation of VAT. The chemists and druggists also held demonstrations at different places and warned to stop import of the medicines in near future if Government remained adamant on implementation of VAT. They demanded that prices on medicines to be MRP inclusive of taxes instead of RP Taxes extra, all other levies like CST be abolished to ensure uniform price to J&K consumers at par with other states and implementation of VAT on medicines be deferred till amendments are made in the relevant laws pertaining to medicine trade. The warehouses continued to wore a deserted look on the second day today. The traders said that Government should not ignore trading community’s interests and shun the path of rigidity by deferring the implementation of VAT by atleast one year. "The overwhelming response to the 72 hour bandh call throughout the State indicates that traders are not happy over the VAT’s implementation and Government should come forward to their rescue", the traders said. Reports reaching from Kathua, Poonch, Rajouri and Doda said that the bandh was complete with traders keeping their respective establishments closed. In all the districts, the traders staged demonstrations and shouted slogans against the Government. In Udhampur, traders led by Ram Saroop Kalsotra and Ramanand Baria took out massive demonstration. Reports also said that normal like in Kashmir valley was crippled for the second day today following a total shutdown by traders. Shops in the summer capital and other major towns in the Valley remained closed following the three-day bandh call given by the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) against the introduction of VAT. Traders and businessmen also organised protest rallies at different places against the VAT system. They were chanting slogans against VAT and implementing authorities. Almost all the chemists and druggists kept their shops closed across the Kashmir valley. |
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‘Despite hurdles by
Pak project to be commissioned in June 2005’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Minister for Power Mohd Sharief Niaz today said that there was no violation of Indus Water Treaty committed by India over Bhaglihar hydel power project over Chenab river in Doda and despite hurdles from Pakistani government, the first phase of this 450 MW project would be commissioned in June this year. The Minister while replying to the discussion over the working of Power Ministry in the Upper House today said that the work on this Rs 4000 cr project was in full swing. Giving break up, he said Rs 122 cr were spent on land compensation and raising buildings/ structures, Rs 2463 cr on civil and hydro-mechanical works, Rs 618.50 cr on electro-mechanical works, Rs 98 cr on 400 KV transmission line, Rs 68 cr on consultancy charges Rs 30 cr on Nashri Bypass road, Rs 24 cr on Khileni- Pul Doda road, Rs 30.57 cr on catchment area treatment land, Rs 23 cr on construction power etc. while Rs 517 cr will be interest on bonds. Referring to the power crisis in J&K, Mr Niaz said the problem will be contained in next two to three years in the State with the commissioning of several projects. He said during this year four more power projects at Pahalgam, Haftal, Igo Mercelong and Bhaderwah are being commissioned. The major emphasis has been laid on power sector in the recently announced Prime Minister’s package. Many new projects such as 1020 MW Burser project (Kishtwar), 1200 MW Sawalakot near Sangaldan (Gool), 330 MW Kishenganga, 44 MW Nemo-Bazgo, 45 MW Chutek and Sewa-II are being taken up for construction under this package. Mr Niaz said State has also announced a policy for generation of power through micro-hydel projects and through 11 projects advertised recently, power to the tune of 63.25 MW would be generated. The offers for 9 projects have been received and they are—Aharbal (15 MW) in Anantnag, Kahmil ( Kupwara), Harpora (Pulwama), Athwatto ( Baramulla), Dunadi ( Gandoh-Doda), Tangmarg and Boniyar ( Baramulla), Brenwar ( Budgam and Drang in Kathua. Moreover, proposal for 25 more mini-hydel projects has been submitted to the Central Ministry of Non-Conventional energy sources for funding. The department has also initiated a programme for establishment of water mills for power generation. 23 such units have been approved and 100 more sites have been identified for the same. He informed the House that in last two years, the Ministry augmented grid stations at Pampore, Wanpoh, Khelleni, Batote, Bari Brahmana, Pattan, Amargarh, Rawalpora, Chasmashahi, Habbak and Bemina. 148 MVA at 11 KV A level and 167 MVA at 66/33 KV level capacity of receiving stations were added during this period. An action plan with th cost of Rs 709 cr has been prepared for electrification of 458 villages and 8497 hamlets, he added. Taking part in the discussion majority of the members stressed the need to restore power in the areas which were affected due to recent snow-fall and rains as early as possible. Most of them appreciated the efforts of ther minister during recent snow fall. Those who participated in the discussion included—Bashir Naz, Lal Mohd Sabir, N A Mir, G S Charak, Depinder Kour, G R Kar, P Namgyal, Prof Bhim Singh, G N Lone, Bilal Lodhi, Farida Mir and Nassarullah. |
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Centre ready to sanction Rs
74 crore package Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed today announced on the floor of the Assembly that the Centre has agreed to sanction a package to the tune of Rs 74 crore for the rehabilitation of displaced border people. Replying to the Calling Attention Notice of Congress member Sham Lal Sharma in the Lower House, Mufti Sayeed said that State Government has sent a proposal for package for border migrants. Earlier giving reply to the Calling Attention Notice, Education Minister, Harsh Dev Singh, on behalf of Home Minister, stated that relief package as per norms/scale of free ration/cash assistance sanctioned by the Government upto September 2004 stands distributed to the border villages of Niabat Khour tehsil Akhnoor. "Currently, the details and financial implication regarding extension of relief beyond 30-9-2004 are being worked out by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. The same will be submitted to Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India for consideration when received from Divisional Commissioner, Jammu", he stated. He further informed the House that most of the agricultural land has been de-mined by the Army authorities. "Similarly, compensation is being paid to the farmers whose land is still under mines by the Defence authorities through Deputy Commissioner, Jammu", he said. The Minister informed the House that an amount of Rs 01.46 crore for making payment as relief to the border migrants on account of tractorization of 7300 acres of fallow land has been released by the Home Department to Divisional Commissioner Jammu for distributing among the border migrants of 21 villages of Niabat Khour of tehsil Akhnoor. |
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Committee to inquire land deal case Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Minister of Revenue, Hakim Mohammed Yasin today announced to constitute a three member high level committee to inquire into allegations of rupees 125 crore deal between former Minister Ajat Shatru Singh and Gosain Group. This Committee will give its report within three months. Revenue Minister announced formation of Committee after Mohammed Yosuf Tarigami raised objections over statement given by the Minister. Mr Tarigami said that it was a very serious matter and reply of the Minister should be supplied to the members. Mr Tarigami, who was on the chair, when direction was given to the Government on March 24, 2004 to come out with a statement on this issue, asked the Minister to keep in mind the seriousness of the matter. National Conference member Ali Mohammed Sagar was of the view that Minister should give reply in presence of Moulvi Iftikar Hussain Ansari, who has raised this issue in the House. Earlier, giving a statement in the Legislative Assembly on this issue, Revenue Minister stated "out of the exempted land (land exempted from the application of BEEA Act) which mostly consists of orchards, sanction has been granted to the alienation of land in favour of Mrs Kunwar Rani Retu Singh, wife of Mr M K Ajat Shatru Singh R/O Hari Niwas Palace, Jammu measuring 152 Kanals and 02 Marlas situated in village Zeethyar vide Govt Order No Rev/S/134 of 2004 dated 09-7-2004". "It may be in place to mention here that this land was, at the crucial date viz Ist Katik, 2007 BK which is also borne out from the enters in the revenue records vide Girdawari 2004 BK. This land is also exempted from the application of Agrarian Ref Act 1976", the Minister stated, adding, "the land under orchard, for a part of which sanction for alienation was granted vide this Government Order, could be retained by its owners in excess of 182 Kanals and 12 1/2 acres under Big Lands Estates Abolition Act and Agrarian Ref Act respectively". |
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Nine NC
MLAs stage walkout over ‘discrimination’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Charging the State Government with discriminating opposition members, nine members of the National Conference, including five from two hilly border districts of Poonch and Rajouri, staged a walkout from the Legislative Assembly today. The National Conference members were demanding that time of the proceeding of the House should be extended so as to discuss their resolutions which were listed in today’s bussiness. As Speaker, Tara Chand refused to accept their proposals, they resorted to shouting slogans. Speaker’s decision infuriated Sayed Bukhari, who shouted, "for the last so many years people of Poonch and Rajouri have been waiting for discussion on this resolution in the Legislative Assembly. Please donot snub aspirations and wishes of the inhabitants of Poonch and Rajouri". As Mr Bukhari was shouting, other members of Poonch and Rajouri- Javed Rana, Ghulam Mohammed Jan, Mohammed Aslam and Rashpal Singh also joined the protest. Mr Bukhari’s resolution was relating to constitution of an Autonomous Hill Development Council for Rajouri and Poonch districts on the pattern of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. The NC members were also demanding assurance from the Speaker that these resolutions should be discussed on Friday. In the meantime, other National Conference members-Sajjad Kitchloo, party’s chief whip Mubarak Gul, Sharief-ud-Din Shariq and Ajay Sadhotra also joined the slogan shouting members. Resolution of Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo was listed at number eight. Displaying copy of business of the House, Mr Kitchloo shouted that this Government was meting out step motherly treatment to Doda district. As Speaker ruled out extending time of the proceeding, all the National Conference member staged walkout from the House. |
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Don’t force me
to go to streets: Bhim Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: The House of elders witnessed heated exchanges between the Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Tourism, Ghulam Hassan Mir and NPP legislator Prof Bhim Singh today. Noisy scene was created in the Council after the House took up discussion under Rule 51 on the deferred question of Prof Bhim Singh and Ram Paul Charak regarding security cover, vehicles and accommodation to different category of political leaders and other persons in the State. Bhim Singh, in an impassioned speech, charged that there is discrimination against his party and some persons have been provided security, accommodation and also vehicles who, according to him, are not entitled for it. He complained that relatives and political activists of Congress and PDP are getting security cover. The Tourism Minister refuted the charge and asserted that the security is provided on threat perceptions to a person. A committe has been formed for the purpose and even Chief Minister and Home Minister have nothing to do it. The Minister gave out details of security, accommodation and vehicles provided to the Panthers party leaders under threat perspection. He claimed that eighteen persons of this party have been covered under security and 13 vehicles have been allotted to NPP leaders besides providing accommodation to five. He said NPP should not confine up to vehicles and accommodation but should show its concern for over all constructive process. Turned furious over the minister’s reply, Prof Bhim Singh said " don’t force me to go to streets. Mr Chairman, minister is telling lie. I will resign from the membership of this House immediately if you show the list of NPP members.’’ He charged that Mr Mir was misleading the House and providing wrong informatrion. It was followed by the verbal duel between the two for some time, creating noisy scenes. Prof Singh alleged that funds of the Government of India worth crores for vehicles, security cover and petrol is being looted on the name of so called militancy which suites to so many people in the State. They are running their shops and indulging in plunder. They never want restoration of peace in the State. The Chairman intervened effectively to lower the temperature of tempers. He asked the Government to ponder how and why former Speaker of J&K legislature has not been provided security cover or accommodation either in Srinagar or Jammu. The Minister replied that this has been noted by the Government. |
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Relay fast enters 37th day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: With the Government still keeping cryptic silence over the demands of Government pharmacists, the Jammu Kashmir Pharmacists Association, which is observing chain hunger strike has finally resolved to further intensify agitation by starting fast-till-death from tomorrow. Meanwhile the relay fast by Association entered 37th day today with a batch of the Association from Pallanwala block comprising Pawan Kumar, Ajeet Kumar, Subash Kumar Sharma and Surinder Singh Choudhary as also Kuldeep Raj, president, Graduate and Post Teachers Forum, of the block, sitting on hunger strike. Association president Sushil Sudan and general secretary Kulbhushan Singh Chouhan, while addressing said that Government was compelling them to take extreme step of launching fast-unto-death from tomorrow, as so far their peaceful struggle has gone un-noticed by the Government. They are demanding removal of pay anomalies, upgradation of post of pharmacists, regularisation of adhoc and substitute pharmacists and sufficient quota of drugs and medicines for smooth running of healthcare centres through out the State. |
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Question Hour in
Legislative Council Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: A Kala Kendra, an Art Centre, is being established in Jammu on which an amount of Rs 2.78 crore have been spent so far. This information was given by the Minister of State for Education, Dr Ghulam Nabi Lone, in reply to a question of Ms Depinder Kour in the Council. The Minister said this Kendra is being completed and made functional shortly. It was informed that the Central Government has provided Rs 1.62 crore while state Government has contributed Rs 1.5 crore for it so far. Replying to a supplementary, Dr Lone stated the Government is still considering to which department this Kala Kendra complex should be handed over for operational purposes. The Minister announced that a similar Art Centre will be established in Srinagar as well. The Minister stated that the Government is considering proposal to set up Cultural Ministry for preservation and promotion of the proud cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. The Government attaches great importance to cultural heritage, he said and added that Archives housed in unsafe building in Jammu will be shifted in a phased manner. The state Government is considering to make special budgetary allocation for the Sheikh-ul-Alam Chair, established in Kashmir University in 1998, for its effective functioning. This was stated by Minister of State for Education, Dr Ghulam Nabi Lone in the House while replying to a question by Mr M Y Taing. Sheikh-ul-Alam was a great saint of Kashmir. A building for it is under construction and will be got completed shortly, he added. The Minister also informed that this great saint’s contribution in Kashmiri poetry has been put on website and some publications are also being put out. Allotment of accommodation to various category of Government functionaries generated heat and discussion in the House when the Minister for Tourism gave details of allottees in the House. The question was put by Mr Ram Paul asking the Government to furnish criteria and norms for allotment of accommodation to, Ministers, legislators, officials. The Minister asserted there is proper guidelines for allotment but admitted of few lapses which will be rectified in a phased manner. On question of Mr Bhim Singh, the Government informed that the draft 10th Plan document of J&K State was prepared and is available in the Planning Department. Operative part of annual plan are also available on CDs with the Department. Mr P Namgyal in his supplementary asked whether the document will be available to legislators and others. While replying to a question by Mr Brij Mohan Sharma in the Council, the Tourism Minister stated that the possibility for creating an artificial lake by way of constructing a barrage on river Tawi is being explored. The Minister said the Government would look into a proposal of 1935 for creation of a lake in Tawi area as demanded by Mr Bhim Singh. |
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Altaf, Kitchloo stage walk out;
Rather demands Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Two Opposition National Conference (NC) MLAs, Mian Altaf and Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo today staged a walk out after the Speaker Tara Chand did not allow them to raise the further supplementaries to the question of Chaman Lal, pertaining to the development of SC Bastis in Doda district. Both the MLAs were in a mood to corner the Minister of Social Welfare Mula Ram with a volley of supplementaries on the issue. As the Minister replied the Question of Chaman Lal, he stood up from his seat saying that whatever discussed with the members was not implemented later and the plan for Scheduled Caste bastis in Doda district was formulated without the consent of the MLAs. Supporting him, Mian Altaf alleged that it was strange that whatever is being discussed with the MLAs is not implemented later. Though the Minister tried to pacify the MLA by saying that he will probe the allegation levelled by Chaman Lal but Mr Altaf was not satisfied and he as well as Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo stood up to raise more supplementaries. But this was strongly objected to by the Speaker who reprimanded the duo saying he will not allow it. This provoked the MLAs who launched a strong protest and entered into heated arguments with the Speaker. Later both staged a walkout in protest. Locking horns with the Minister, the Opposition leader, Abdul Rahim Rather in his supplementaries said that the question be deferred as the Minister was not fully prepared to reply it. But the Minister said that he has all the data pertaining to he question. Mula Ram said that development of Scheduled Caste bastis is undertaken under a centrally sponsored scheme and the work can’t be taken up in hand till the funds were not released by Finance and Planning Ministry. Earlier replying to main question, Mula Ram said Rs 9.40 lakh was sanctioned for the development of Scheduled Caste bastis of Doda district during 2003-04. He said the draft plan for the same was discussed by District Development Commissioner, Doda with members of District SC Advisory Committee before its finalisation. He said out of this amount, Rs 2.50 lakh were spent on establishment of two Cutting and Tailoring Centers, one each at Gandoh and Bhadarwah, Rs one lakh was spent on construction of breast wall and lanes and drains by Rural Development Department, he added. He said the Horticulture Department provided Rs one lakh to the beneficiaries of the district under this scheme while for providing water facilities to Bhaderoon Ghat village Rs two lakh were spent and Rs 1.90 lakh were allocated to Handloom Department. |
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Question on renovation of CM’s residence deferred Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: The question of Ali Mohammed Sagar pertaining to expenditure incurred by various Government agencies on the renovation of official residence of Chief Minister at Moulana Azad Road Srinagar was deferred after the members were not satisfied with the reply of Minister incharge Works, Ghulam Ahmed Mir. Mr Sagar wanted to know how much money was spent on the work executed by Department and how much through the agencies and which agencies were involved in renovation process, but he could not get a proper reply from the Minister. The Minister pleaded that he does not have the relevant information at this time and the same can be provided to the Member later. Even the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed also supported the Minister saying that he will provide the relevant information to the member later. But this was not accepted by the Opposition NC members who demanded that the question be deferred as it was the property of the House. Later the Speaker deferred the question. Earlier, in his reply, the Minister said that Rs 214.94 lakh were incurred on renovation, remodelling, interiors and reconstruction of allied works at CM’s official residence. He said Rs 50.65 lakh were spent SRE works and Rs 45.00 lakh on provision of movable furniture , fixtures, furnishings provided through SICOP. He said besides an amount of Rs 49.30 lakh has been incurred by R&B Department for some security related works inside and outside the official residence of CM. He said the works were executed either departmentally or on tender basis. MLAs’ concern over absence
of Ministers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: The Opposition as well as some ruling coalition members today expressed grave concern over the non presence of senior Ministers in the State Assembly during the Question Hour. As soon as the House assembled at 9.30 am in the morning, Ashwani Sharma independent stood up from his seat to express his concern over the non presence of Cabinet Ministers in the House. He was joined by CPI (M) MLA, Mohammed Yousf Tarigami and both wanted that the Speaker should take a strong notice of it. Supporting them all, Opposition NC members also stood up from their seats to express their protest over the absence of the Cabinet Ministers from the House. They tried to stall the proceedings of the Question Hour. However the Speaker, Tara Chand paid no attention to them and took up the first question for the day’s business. Reprimanding the members, the Speaker was heard saying that he will not allow to raise any issue during the Question Hour. As Speaker did not respond to their queries, all the members later took their seats. Workshop on
‘Production of Resource Material Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Five-day workshop on ‘Preparation and Production of Resource Material on Environment Awareness for Children’, concluded at Jammu University, here today. The workshop was organised by the PG Department of Dogri, JU. During the last five years, this was the fifth programme on environmental awareness, organised by the Department in collaboration with WWF-Nature for India, Jammu. The resource material prepared in the this workshop covered wide range of topics providing awareness regarding water pollution, air pollution, noise pollution, soil pollution etc. The resource material was produced in different literary genres like poems, songs, short stories, riddles etc. The resource material will be printed and also transformed into audio-cum-visual to popularise the theme among the people, particularly children. Those who participated in the workshop as resource persons, included, Prof Archana Kesar, Dr Shashi Pathania, Dr Shiv Dev Singh Manhas, Dr Sushma Sharma, O P Sharma ‘Vidyarthi’ and Prakash Premi. Prof Veena Gupta, HoD Dogri, was the director of the workshop. Kargil deputation calls on CM, Dy CM Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Mar 31: A deputation from Kargil led by Minister for Sports and Technical Education, Haji Nissar Ali today called on the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma and apprised them about the problems being faced by the people of the district. The deputationists also informed them about development works being executed by the LAHDC, Kargil. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister gave patient hearing to the deputationists and agreed for laying of foundation stone of Monstry during the month of June this year and assured them that they will personally take stock of the problems of the people of the area and issue on the spot orders for their redressal. The deputation was comprised of Legislators Haji Abaas, Nassur-Ullah, Former MP and Regional Congress President, Haji Mohammad Hassan Commander, Aga Syed Mukhtar Councillor, Haji Marzia, Councillor, Tundup Dorjee President DKTLS, Bodh Kahrboo, Trsering Samanla, Secretary DKTLS and Puchok Dorjee Panch of Bodh Kharboo. Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: The employees of Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) today observed one day strike throughout the State in protest against the delay in conceding their demands. Large number of employees gathered at Karan Bhawan Shalamar Chowk and shouted slogans against the management of the LIC for not denying them of their legitimate rights. Addressing the employees, the leaders of the North Zone Insurance Employees Association said that they have rejected the proposals on wage issue put forward by the management because they were inadequate and below the expectations of the employees. They said that despite phenomenal growth in the LIC business, the employees were being denied of their rights and made it clear that they would continue their struggle till management concedes their demands. They demanded more than 13 per cent hike in wages and claimed that the wage revision was due since August 1, 2002. Others who addressed the employees included Gurdeep Singh Raina, Mohan Lal, Bhagat, Charan Singh, Romesh Chand, Jitender Bhat and Pawan Gupta. JKBL gives warm farewell to GM Shamas Farooq Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Mar 31: M Y Khan, Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited, gave a warm send off to Shamas Farooq, General Manager J&K Bank at Corporate Office today. Mr Farooq retired today from the services of the Bank. All executives and staff of the bank were present on the occasion. Bank chairman Mr Khan while appreciating the services of Shamas Farooq stated that his contribution in progress and growth of Bank will always be remembered. Contribution of Shamas Farooq in the growth of ther bank was hailed by all present on the occasion of his farewell. Shamas Farooq joined J&K Bank in 1972 and served the institution in various capacities for 33 years. Mr Shamas Farooq has been instrumental in promoting various sports talents in the State to national as well international level. Under his dynamic supervision, the Bank earned a name in the field of sports too as the Bank was awarded many national trophies. Diploma Enggs flay Govt for neglect of cadre Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: A meeting of the State unit of All J&K Diploma Engineers Association held under the chairmanship of R S Jasrotia held at Lok Nirman Bhawan today expressed serious concern over vested designs of some insiders who were out to get undue benefits by way of promotion as Assistant Engineers by encroaching upon cadre strength of Diploma Engineers. Mr Jasrotia while addressing appealed the rank and file of the Association to remain united to thwart the evil designs of vested interests. He also sought intervention of the Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed to institute an inquiry in the matter so that a strong action could be taken against well identified anti-cadre personnel in works and power sector to expose their secret endeavours for accommodating their blue eyed boys in all promotions made till date by encroaching upon Diploma Engineers at AE, AEE, X-En ranks despite strict directives from the Supreme Court of India. Association vice president R K Kohli asked for immediate release of 97 posts of AEs due in favour of Diploma Engineers, as of date only five diploma engineers have been promoted each in Hydraulic and R&B wings respectively working as AEs against the total 107 due posts towards the cadre strength. Mr Jugal Kishore appealed the Minister for Works to intervene and direct a mechanism so that more than 5000 diploma engineers languishing for a modest single promotion were saved from humiliation and discrimination. All the senior functionaries as also the office bearers of Diploma Engineers Association also spoke on the occasion. Koul releases Hari Om Tatsat VCD Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: President SOS Children’s village of India J N Kaul has urged the Kashmiri Pandits to come forward in building the institutions for community upliftment. Mr Kaul who was speaking at the release of Kashmiri devotion VCD titled Hari Om Tatsat at Press Club here, today said it is not only the resources but the ideas which built such institutions. The VCD has been produced by JRS Video Vision Jammu. Mr Koul complimented the producers and artists saying that he admires those who do some thing practical and concrete. He said every community is known for its achievements and instead of peeping into our past we should work for better future. Stressing on self help he said the displaced Kashmiri Pandits should inbuilt such a chain to make the community more and more stronger so that it is not dependent on outside help. While complimenting the producers of the VCD, renowned scholar Dr Agnishekhar said with the release of this cassette they have further linked us to our roots from which we are away for last 15 years. He while disputing the claims that the Santoor has come from Central Asia or Iran to Kashmir, said its origin lies in Godess Sharda, the deity of knowledge and wisdom who has chosen Kashmir as her abode. He while praising the Loak Dun in the cassette said it has innate touch to original music of Kashmir. He warned that the nation which is not conscious of its roots has no future. He said the Kashmir has a glorious history of past and Mattan is such a sacred and important place so far as the Hindu philosophy is concerned that it had changed the history of India. He said the Sangeet is considered sacred in Shastras as it provides courage to disgusted people. A N Vaishnavi, president ASKPC also spoke on the occasion and he also stressed on setting up of institutions. While complimenting the producers and artists Jyotshi Omkar Nath Shastri said this CD is a symbol of Kashmir culture. Hari OM Tat Sat CD has been jointly produced by Usha Handoo and Kiran Dhar and besides Ms Handoo its singers are Sidarth Koul and Suman Pandita. Its lyrics was given by P N Shad , B L Dhar and H K Sidha. The artists who performed in it include Shiban Tickoo, Suman Pandita, and Ashok Kaloo while the music was given by Kuldeep Saproo. It has been directed by Ravi Kachroo while Jai Krishan Bezan was its comperor. Rs 300 cr long term water supply
project Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: The proposal for augmentation of water supply for greater Jammu for the long term requirements is in finalisation stage. This was stated by Minister of State for PHE and Irrigation, Sayeed Bashir Ahmed in Legislative Assembly while replying the questions of Shanti Devi and Balwant Singh Mankotia. He said feasibility study for the intake structures is being undertaken by Central Ground Water Board and after the feasibility report is obtained, the project would be submitted to CPHEEO, Ministry of Urban Development Government of India for technical clearance . The work on this project will start after it is approved and loan is negotiated with the funding agency. He said two proposals are under consideration at present in this regard. One is tapping of Chenab water and the other is tapping of water from infiltration wells on the banks of River Chenab. This Project has been included under the PM’s package which will cost Rs 359 crore. He said the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department has undertaken two projects for improvement and augmentation of water supply for greater Jammu. He said both these projects are being funded by Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India. These projects were taken up in 2002-03 and against the target of 10.40 MGD and 3.30 MGD of water has been added to the system during last three years. Besides , the improvement and extension of distribution system has also been taken in hand for upcoming colonies, the Minister informed. He said total estimated cost on Master Plan Phase II is Rs 2790 lakh, out of which Rs 1948.95 lakh were spent during 2003-04 and for 2004-05 Rs 809.05 lakh were allocated. He said on short term core area the total estimated cost is Rs 3059.08 lakh. Out of this amount Rs 357.00 lakh were spent during 2003-04 and Rs 150.55 were allotted for 2004-05. Giving more details the Minister informed the House that during the current financial year it is proposed to complete six tube wells with allied works to add 0.12 MGD gallons per day in the Jammu town. Besides improvement and extension of distribution system is also being partially done in the water scarcity areas. He said the Department has also sought the loan assistance from ADB to the extent of Rs 200 crore for rehabilitation of existing system. Under the rehabilitation measures worn out machinery will be replaced and 174 stand by units will be provided. Besides the DG sets voltage stabilizers will also be provided and the worn out pipes will be replaced. With the completion of this project the immediate water requirement of Jammu City will be overcome. The Project will be taken up in hand in 2005-06 and it will be completed within three years, he added. |
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