|
|
| After 72-hour bandh, traders to be back to business today Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Trade bandh continued in entire Jammu and Kashmir State for the third consecutive day today even as State Government introduced Value-Added Tax (VAT) alongwith 20 other States of the country today......more Crossed
Swords Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Crossed Swords Division of the Indian Army, celebrated 64th anniversary of its Raising Day in the Northern Command today........more Vyas for
quick Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1 : About 27150 Mts of urea has been dispatched to the valley during the last week to ensure adequate availability of fertilizers to the farmers in the current Rabi season. The dispatched quantity contains IFFCO and Chambal urea.........more KU study
on Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Apr 1: University of Kashmir is conducting a study on the socio-economic dynamics of annual pilgrimage of Amarnath with a thrust on its impact on tourism in the Valley.......more Complete
projects within Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Minister of State for Works, Ghulam Ahmad Mir today inspected some developmental works under execution in Jammu.........more |
 |
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Rashtriya Rifles is laying more and more emphasis on the surgical operations while dealing with insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure safety of the civilians and their properties............more Newly
floated group Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The organisations representing Kashmiri Pandits in exile came under severe criticism today for having no clear-cut policy and bringing the community on the cross-roads........more Kashmiri
migrants Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed today said that Government has received several letters of willingness from the Kashmiri migrants, who want to go back to valley and it is hoped that by the end of this year, the process of return would start.............more Namgyal
for Mansrovar Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The issue of opening of Leh-Damchok-Tibet road for tourism purpose and pilgrimage to Kailash-Mansrovar was raised in Upper House today, seeking initiative of the Government........more |
After 72-hour bandh, traders to be back to business today Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Trade bandh continued in entire Jammu and Kashmir State for the third consecutive day today even as State Government introduced Value-Added Tax (VAT) alongwith 20 other States of the country today. After 72-hour bandh, the trading community of the State decided to open their respective business establishments from tomorrow and would chalk out future course of action on April 6 after consulting leaders of All India Federation of Traders. On the third day of the bandh today the business activities in the entire State remained affected with shops and other business establishments remaining closed to protest implementation of VAT. Likewise in the early two days, the response to the bandh call on the third day today was also tremendous. Even in the outskirts and rural areas the bandh was complete. At several places, traders held protest demonstrations and shouted slogans against the State Government for its adamant attitude towards the demand of the traders. The incidents of road blockade were also reported from several areas but the bandh passed off peacefully across the State. Reports from districts of Udhampur, Doda, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch said that traders burnt effigy of VAT to express their anguish. In Udhampur, leader of trading community Sham Saroop Kalsotra organised a massive protest demonstration. Later, in the evening heads of about 150 associations of the traders convened a meeting under the chairmanship of president of Federation of Retailers Association Jammu Yashpal Gupta wherein it was decided that Jammu and Kashmir traders would consult the leaders of traders bodies of all India level before finalising future course of action. In the meantime, they would open their respective business establishments but would not cooperate in implementation of VAT. It was unanimously decided that traders would again meet on April 6 to finalise future strategy. They demanded that Government should hold negotiations with the real representatives of the trading community and launch awareness campaign at the grass-root level after the consensus on the complicated clauses of the VAT system are sorted out. The other demands of the trading community are exemption of the traders who have a minimum turn over of Rs 10 lakh, sales ranging between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 50 lakh of taxable items be not brought under the purview of audit and all other taxes such as CST, Toll Tax, Entry tax be withdrawn. In Kashmir Valley, the bandh called by Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) affected business in Baramulla, Kupwara, Anantnag, Budgam and Pulwama districts. Various traders and manufacturers associations organised protest march and dharnas across the valley to seek revocation of VAT Act. |
 |
Crossed Swords Division celebrates Raising Day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Crossed Swords Division of the Indian Army, celebrated 64th anniversary of its Raising Day in the Northern Command today. It is an event commemorating the glorious history of the formation , which has earned laurels in many operations in the past. A wreath laying ceremony was held at Crossed Swords War memorial in the memory of martyrs who had made the supreme sacrifice to the nation. A ‘barakhana’ was also arranged at the division camp and was attended by all ranks of the Division. Raising in 1941, this Division has participated in the World War II as a part of British Eighth Army in Libya to meet the threat posed by the German General Erwin Romel to break through Egypt. During partition the Division was apportioned to Pakistan. It was re-raised at Bangalore on Apr 1, 1965 to meet the requirement of additional forces in Chhamb-Jourian of Akhnoor sector. Fighting bravely, the unit soldiers managed to blunt the Pak aggression in this sector. It was conferred with a host of gallantry awards including six Maha Vir Chakras and 14 Vir Chakras. It also actively participated in the war of 1971 with Pakistan. Presently, under the able command of Maj Gen B S Jamwal, VSM, the Division is marching forward to attain more glory in the times to come. |
|
Vyas for quick mobilization of fertilizers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1 : About 27150 Mts of urea has been dispatched to the valley during the last week to ensure adequate availability of fertilizers to the farmers in the current Rabi season. The dispatched quantity contains IFFCO and Chambal urea. This was revealed at a high level meeting held here last evening. The Commissioner/Secretary Agriculture Production Mr V. Vyas presided. The meeting was a follow up to the recent tour of the Commissioner/Secretary Agricultural Production to various parts of the valley to take stock of the availability of the agriculture inputs and fertilizers during the Rabi season. The meeting was also attended by the Registrar Cooperatives, Dr G.N. Qasba, Director Agriculture Jammu, Vinod Bhalla, Managing Director JAKFED, Managing Director Agros, Inayat besides the representatives of fertilizer companies including IFFCO, Chambal, IPL and NFL. It was stated in the meeting that 28597 Mts of DAP constituting 50 percent of the total requirements in the state has been met and supplied whereas JAKFED Agro-industries Development Corporation has arranged 2958 Mts and 1906 Mts of MoP respectively. The availability of fertilizers for the kharief 2005 was also reviewed. Speaking on the occasion, the Agricultural Production Commissioner stressed upon quick mobilization of fertilizers upto the far-flung and remote destinations to ensure its availability to the farming community. He urged for maintaining total transparency in distribution of fertilizers. |
|
KU study on socio-economic dynamics of Amarnath yatra Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Apr 1: University of Kashmir is conducting a study on the socio-economic dynamics of annual pilgrimage of Amarnath with a thrust on its impact on tourism in the Valley. The project, assigned to a local scholar, is envisaged to determine the extent of contribution of the pilgrimage to the holy cave of Amarnath towards the process of social solidarity, integration and communal harmony. It will also explore and identify the belief structure and ritual strategies of the Hindus having the influence of the holy cave of Amarnath and analyse the extent of contribution of pilgrimage on the State’s tourist industry. The study will anylyse the administrative set up for this pilgrimage and suggest measures to make it more organised on modern lines. The annual pilgrimage has already proved a boon for Kashmir economy with influx of pilgrims touching an all time high of four lakhs last year. The local population of Pahalgam, Sonamarg and peripheral areas is going to benefit immensely with the pilgrimage after SASB undertakes raising suitable infrastructural facilities for pilgrims. The Board contemplates to erect at camp sites prefabricated and insulated shelter sheds primarily to save lives but these will enable local tent-holders, managing these sheds, to earn Rs 20 per bunk bed per day which will come around to Rs 1000 per shelter per day. Porters and mule owners would in addition benefit by earning over Rs 150 lakhs for transporting these. Provision of gas operated water heaters is expected to cut down the requirements of firewood for heating water drastically. Catering arrangements for pilgrims boosts up the demand for locally grown fresh vegetables and fruits. Hiring of tents, sleeping bags, shoes, raincoats etc brings cheer to the faces of local shopkeepers. Being the most powerful symbols of Kashmiriyat, the pilgrimage knows religion and not the religious divide. Thousands of Kashmiri Muslims are associated with this Yatra which acts as a prime source of their livelihood. The pilgrimage has been significant in promoting the spirit of brotherhood and secular ethos of the Valley. |
|
Complete projects within stipulated time: G A Mir Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Minister of State for Works, Ghulam Ahmad Mir today inspected some developmental works under execution in Jammu. The works include three-storey Complex of Institute of Engineers at Channi Himmat and 12.50 kms road from Bishnah to Kharia. These works are under execution at a cost of Rs. 3.86 crore. During the inspection of Institute of Engineers Complex, the Minister was apprised by the Managing Director JKPCC that the complex would be completed at a cost of Rs. 1.60 crore and so far Rs. 75 lakh have been incurred on its construction while as, Rs. 85 lakh would be spent during current financial year. This complex would be having facilities of an auditorium, administrative block and guest house besides library and a lecture room. On the occasion, the Minister also released a News Letter of the Institution. Chief Engineers, R&B, Mechanical and Managing Director JKPCC were also present. Mr. Mir also inspected the improvement and upgradation work of Bishnah-Kharia road which is to be completed at a cost of Rs. 2.26 crore. So far Rs. 96 lakhs have been incurred on it and shingling work has been completed while as, the mattelling work of this road is under progress. The Minister was told that the execution of this road including one bridge near Salana would be completed by the end of September 2005 and this would provide better road connectivity facility to about 50 villages of the area. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mir stressed upon the engineers to redouble their efforts and accelerate the pace of development works so that these may be completed within the stipulated time. Various local residents of the area also met the Minister and putforth their problems. The Minister assured them that their problems like scarcity of potable water, better road connectivity and adequate power supply would be solved on top priority basis. |
|
People-friendly efforts in
place in J&K Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Rashtriya Rifles is laying more and more emphasis on the surgical operations while dealing with insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure safety of the civilians and their properties. This was stated by Lt Gen Tej Pathak, Director General of Rashtriya Rifles while interacting with the media persons here this morning. "It is due to this approach of the force that during the past two months there was no casualty of civilians in counter-insurgency operations throughout the State", he said. The approach, Lt Gen Pathak said, has also led to decline in allegations of human rights against Rashtriya Rifles, which was raised in the backdrop of the outbreak of Pakistan sponsored insurgency in the State. "Rashtriya Rifles follow the dictum of relentless operations against terrorists with parallel people friendly efforts to bring normalcy to the State", he added. According to Director General of RR, the force has achieved spectacular results both in operations and winning hearts and minds of the populace. Rashtriya Rifles (RR) during the past 10 years have eliminated 6511 terrorists, apprehended 5697 and facilitated the surrender of 863. It has effected recovery of 10,475 weapons of all types, 7685 kilograms of explosives, 2040 radio sets and 804106 rounds of ammunition of all types. It was due to the valour of Rashtriya Rifles that it has emerged as the most decorated force. It has two Ashok Chakras, two Param Vishisht Seva Medals, 15 Kirti Chakras, 20 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, 106 Shaurya Chakras, 732 Sena Medals (Gallantry) and 47 Vishisht Seva Medals awardees. About 32 units of the force have also been awarded with unit citations. This is the hard action role of the Rashtriya Rifles but the force is also doing yeoman’s service for the civilians, he said and disclosed that in order to assuage the miseries inflicted by the terrorists upon the hapless population of the State, the Rashtriya Rifles has successfully undertaken the civic action programme aimed at border area development, medical facilities, community development, education and vocational training, adventure-cum-personality development camps and over 200 micro-hydel projects. Most of the programmes, Lt Gen Pathak said, have been organised for the population from remote areas and weaker sections of the society. Micro-hydel projects and solar lights are the exclusive gifts to the people of remote areas from Rashtriya Rifles side. The Director General informed that two day 5th biennial conference of the RR which concluded today deliberated on key macro issues facing the organisations in the changing environment. |
|
Newly floated group lambasts
bodies representing Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The organisations representing Kashmiri Pandits in exile came under severe criticism today for having no clear-cut policy and bringing the community on the cross-roads. It was alleged that these organisations only created confusion and chaos rather than chalking out a policy to provide justice to the community. These organisations were also blamed for beating their own drums instead of raising the issues of the community collectively. The criticism came from the Kashmir Visthapith Sangathan Camps Jammu which has been formed after hectic deliberations with the camp inmates in two conventions held on December 14 and January 15. Former president of Muthi Camp Phase-I S N Dhar has been elected president of the Sangathan. "It is a harsh reality that mushroom growth of the organisations of displaced KPs that justice continued to elude the community. The situation has worsened due to the apathy shown by the successive Central as well as State Governments", Mr Dhar said and added that the newly floated Sangathan represents all camps and sections of the community. Pointing towards the dialogue process initiated by the Central Government, he wanted to know as to why the real victims of the terrorism are being ignored while settling the issue of Kashmir and demanded that camp inmates be included in the dialogue process for viable solution to the vexed issue. He made it clear that Kashmiri Pandit community can in no way be made scapegoat to the false prestige of the Government and once the congenial atmosphere and rule of law is established in the Valley the community can think of return. Mr Dhar demanded special package for educated youth, removal of encroachment on the leftover properties of the KPs, subsidised loans for displaced traders, ex-gratia for gutted property and damaged houses, enhancement in cash assistance, HRA/CCA and promotional benefits for displaced employees as per court orders, bifurcation of ration cards with relief benefits, medical insurance scheme for needy persons, construction of two rooms sets as announced by PM during his visit to the camps and waiving off loans under PMRY. Shamboo Nath Pandit of Nagrota, Roshan Lal Raina of Purkhoo, Ravinder of Muthi, Piaray Lal of Muthi Phase-II, Shiban of Batal Ballian, Piaray Lal of Mishriwala, Bushan Lal Bhat of Muthi and Krishan of Purkhoo are the office bearers of the Sangathan. |
|
Kashmiri migrants may start returning by year end: CM Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed today said that Government has received several letters of willingness from the Kashmiri migrants, who want to go back to valley and it is hoped that by the end of this year, the process of return would start. While intervening during the reply of a question of P. Namgyal by Minister of State for Planning Usman Majid, Mufti Sayeed said that flats for the Kashmiri migrant families intending to go back are being constructed with an estimated cost of Rs 20 cr at Sheikhpura and Khir Bhawani in Valley. These flats will be ready in next few months and it is hoped that process of return would start by the end of this year. He disclosed that Government has received about 1000 to 1500 letters of the Kashmiri Pandit migrants who have shown their willingness to return to Valley. The government will also consider the security issue and over all congenial situation will also be taken into consideration. In response to a supplementary of Prof Bhim Singh the Chief Minister said that return of Kashmiri Pandit migrants is priority of the coalition Government and forms a part of normalcy. He said Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh during his visit to migrant camps in Jammu saw their living condition in one room accommodation and then announced special package for 2-room accommodation. Centre will be funding for the same to improve their living condition in camps but with that decision the State Government’s resolve would not be affected. He said with the normalcy restoring in the State, the condition will become congenial for their return. " When they return to the Valley only then I will be satisfied", he maintained. Earlier, giving reply regarding the break up of Prime Minister’s package given to all the three regions, Usman Majid disclosed that Jammu region would be getting Rs 10,982.90 cr, Kashmir region Rs 7863 cr and Ladakh only Rs 1325 cr. Under State level projects, including Bhaglihar HEP, ADB projects, raising 5 IRP battalions, setting up 50 tourist villages, Horticulture industry etc. an amount of Rs 3130.87 cr has been kept. Mr Namgyal objected that why a meager amount was kept for Ladakh region. Minister for Power, Mohd Sharief Niaz said that Electricity Commission has been set up which will look into the metering process and review of power tariff. While responding to a question of Depinder Kour in the Legislative Council today, Mr Niaz said that at present, the government has no proposal to increase power tariff. There was no hike after 1999 and the commission set up for the purpose will be reviewing the same in future. In response to the written reply of the question M Y Taing, the Government said in Employment Exchanges in Jammu and Kashmir, about one lakh youth have been registered ending December, 2004. There are 26045 vacancies in various departments in the State. About 42000 youth have already been recruited in various Central and state Government departments since October, 2002 and most of these were in Education department, Army and paramilitary forces, Police and contractual basis. The Public Service Commission has made 1201 selections against various posts through combined Competitive Examinations in Gazetted cadres in different departments. The Service Selection Board has made selection for 1143 posts against various posts in non-gazetted cadre in different departments. Besides this, nearly 2700 unemployed engineers have been organised in Self Help Groups. |
|
Namgyal for Mansrovar pilgrimage through Ladakh Excelsior Special Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The issue of opening of Leh-Damchok-Tibet road for tourism purpose and pilgrimage to Kailash-Mansrovar was raised in Upper House today, seeking initiative of the Government of India to take up the issue with the Chinese authorities. A resolution in this connection was moved by P Namgyal from Ladakh, demanding opening of international border between Ladakh and Tibet (China) at Damchok to promote tourism, trade and pilgrimage. He pointed out that a large number of people and even those from Ladakh have supported the cause of opening Srinagar-Uri-Muzaffrabad road, no body has shown concern towards opening of border of Ladakh with Tibet. Mr Namgyal said Sikiyang road is said to be old traditional trade route and it had great importance during olden days. It was being used by the traders of Central Asia for Pashmina, wool and salt trade. After 1962 war with China the road was closed and the people of Ladakh who have common language and culture are facing suffocated with the closure of this route. Referring to pilgrimage to Kailash Mansrovar, Mr Namgyal said that route through Utteranchal was very tough and risky while about 280 kms road from Leh to border village of Damchok was good and motorable. After crossing border, the next town on that side in Tibet is around 15 kms and the area is plan having good roads constructed by that government. From there the base camp for yatra is hardly 250 kms and the pilgrims can reach in shortest time. The route will also be economical for the lakhs of Hindu pilgrims visiting every year. The people have to go via China and it costs them heavily. Prof Bhim Singh and M Y Taing supported the the resolution of Mr Namgyal and said that the road should be given importance in view of being traditional trade route. Moreover, opening roads will further improve relations with the neighbouring countries. Prof Singh said in 1842 the brave Dogra General Zorawar Singh reached Lahasa with 2500 soldiers and made it as part of state. The people of Ladakh and Tibet have same culture and language and opening of road will improve relations and ensure people to people contact and also encourage tourism and trade. Both the members stressed that J&K Government should request Centre to take up the issue with Chinese Government. Replying to the resolution, Minister for Tourism and Urban Development, G H Mir said that Govt of India has already taken up the issue with the Chinese Government. And the Govt of that country has also given good response. The J&K Government is keen and pro-active in this regard and want opening of this road for promotion of tourism and trade. He said as per communique of the Central Government the matter is under active consideration. Another resolution was moved by Gulchain Singh Charak demanding that new building of Kala Kendra at Bikram Chowk Jammu , be dedicated in the memory of world renowned singer K L Sehgal, son of the soil. He said it should be named after K L Sehgal and it would be a true tribute to the great singer. Minister for Education Harshdev, while replying said that as per Central Govt guidelines, it is governed by an autonomous body. Govt can only suggest to the body and can not force them. He said the Government would sent special request in this regard to the body for considering this issue. The body has 21 members including 6 officials and 15 non-officials nominated by the government. Both the resolutions were withdrawn by the members after positive assurance by the Government. Lal Mohd Sabir and Nazir Ahmed Mir also moved resolutions but were deferred for tomorrow. |
|
|
|
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The Government today introduced a bill in the Assembly to amend Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation and Municipalities Act under which the newly elected civic bodies are being brought under the anti-defection law. The bill was introduced by Housing and Urban Development Minister Ghulam Hassan Mir on behalf of Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig. The bill will be taken up for discussion and passing at a later date. As reported by the Excelsior, the bill proposed that any Corporator or Councilor violating whip of the party will be liable for disqualification unless his act is condoned by the party president. If two-third Corporators/Councilors of a party merged with a party or form a separate group, they wouldn’t come under the purview of anti-defection law. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) will hear complaints of disqualification while Tribunal will be the final authority to give judgment. |
|
|
Adhocism affecting health of Health Deptt: NC Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: National Conference members today expressed concern over prevailing adhocism in the Health Department and asked the Government take some concrete step to streamline the functioning of this important department. Raising supplementaries during a question of Congress member Kanta Singh, National Conference member and former Health Minister, Mian Altaf regretted that for the last two and half years adhocism has been prevailing in the Health Department. "From Head of the Departments to Directors, all officers are appointed on adhoc basis", Mr Altaf said and added that adhocism has been badly affecting functioning of the Health Department. The Chief Minister while intervening the supplementaries raised by Dr Mehboob Beg, Mian Altaf Ahmed, Khem Lata Wakhloo and Prem Sagar Aziz informed the House that a Cabinet Sub-Committee has been constituted to regularise deserving candidates. The Chief Minister said that Government has accorded top priority to the health sector and it will make all our efforts to deploy medical and para medical staff for every health centre including far-flung areas for which incentives would be provided to the staff for working such areas. Earlier, replying to main question of Kanta Singh which was raised by G M Saroori, Health Minister Suman Bhagat informed the House that keeping in view the urgency of availability of medical and para-medical staff in the hospitals and health centres of the rural areas including far-flung areas, the government has decided to intensify the process of making contractual appointments against available posts. She further said that the process of making contractual appointments has become inevitable following the stay in the recruitment process of the doctors and other para medical staff through Public Service Commission. |
|
Question Hour in
Legislative Council Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Social Welfare Minister, Mula Ram informed the Legislative Council that there are 484 non-governmental organisations carrying on various welfare schemes and development activities in Jammu and Kashmir. In reply to a question of NC member Ram Paul, on behalf of Brij Mohan Sharma, the Minister said that the State Government has provided grant-in-aid of Rs 12.35 lakh during 2003-04 while the Centre has given an amount of Rs 32.14 lakh to these NGOs during this period. It was stated that the main activities of the NGOs is the upliftment of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, destitute women and orphans, care of aged and infirm, school for deaf and dumb, awareness camps, vocational training and such welfare activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Prof Bhim Singh in his supplementary demanded that list of NGOs should be provided as few of them were misusing funds. The Minister stated that the information is voluminous and would take quite sometime and will be furnished to the member. Mr P. Namgyal wanted that this list should be made available to all legislators. The Chairman, Abdul Rashid Dar, while agreeing to the plea of the members asked the Social Welfare Minister to furnish within 10 days the list of NGOs to the members. The Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, while intervening on the question of Mr P Namgyal regarding enhancement of salary, DA and medical allowance to legislators and ex-legislators, stated that recently Rs 10,000 has been sanctioned for the sitting legislators for petrol expenses. The Chief Minister said that the matter is under consideration Prof Mr Bhim Singh and Mr M Y Taing, in their supplementary asked for medical and other facilities for the ex-legislators as well. Minister Incharge Road and Buildings G A Mir said that 1688 persons were killed in the Jammu and Kashmir State during the period from April 1, 2004 to February 15, 2005. Those killed included 794 militants, 621 civilians and 273 police and security personnel. He was replying to a question of M Y Taing. He said an amount of Rs 4.61 cr has been paid to the dependents of innocent citizens killed in the violence in Jammu and Kashmir. It was disclosed that 36 next of kin of those civilian killed in violence have been provided employment on humanitarian ground under SRO 43 during the last fiscal. Mr Bhim Singh asked whether government intends to provide jobs to the dependents of political workers of his party killed in militancy. |
|
Harshdev heads high level Govt panel on education Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: The State Government has constituted a State Level Quality Assurance Coordination Committee (SLQACC) in Education department for maintenance and sustenance of quality education. The Committee, which will be headed by Education Minister Harshdev Singh, will continuously monitor educational system in the State so that standards of education are not only maintained but enhanced. Minister of State for Education Dr Ghulam Nabi Lone will be vice chairman of the Committee while Director Colleges will be its convenor. Members of the Committee included Secretary Higher Education, Vice Chancellors of Jammu and Kashmir Universities, Principal SP College Srinagar, Principal Women College MA Road Srinagar, Principal Women College Parade Ground Jammu, Principal Government degree college Kathua, Poornima Choudhary (KCS College of Education, Upper Paloura Jammu), Dr Abdul Majid Mattoo, Retired Registrar, University of Kashmir, a representative of Director NAAC and Joint Director (Planning) Higher Education department. After Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir is the only State which has set up such a panel. The SLQACC will be apex committee for quality as also the information and resource centre at the state level for quality sustenance and enhancement activities for college education, official sources said. The Committee will conduct awareness programmes throughout the State on issues related to quality assurance and motivate colleges and other higher education institutions in the State to undergo assessment and accreditation based on a phase wise plan of accreditation to be prepared in consultation with the NAAC. It will assist the NAAC in initiating post-accreditation quality sustenance measures in the State and achieving targets of assessment and accreditation in case of affiliated colleges. The Committee will also advise the State Government in initiating suitable measures for ascertaining the maintenance of minimum standards in higher education institution. It will also advise the NAAC on the quality assurance activities to be taken up by the higher education institutions in the State for achieving globally accepted quality standards. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
|
|
|
Cremica Foods organises distributors’ meet Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Cremica Agro Foods Limited, a leading biscuit company of Northern India, having annual turn over of Rs 150 cr conducted distributors meet here today. Mr Anoop Bector, Managing Director of the Company, while speaking on the occasion disclosed that the concern has set up a fully automated unit in Himachal with an initial investment of Rs 10 cr. It is company’s commitment to provide best quality biscuits at affordable rates. He said apart from biscuits the company is also manufacturing liquid condiments , Namkeens, confectionery and other bakery products. He said it is matter of pride that UNO-under the aegis of World Food Programme (WFP), has short listed our company to supply 7000 tonnes of biscuits to Afghnistan. The company also has a list of satisfied customers including Indian Railways, Indian Airlines, Java Green, Canteen Stores Department, ITC, Cadbury, McDonald etc. He said the company achieved 42 % growth during 2004-05. He attributed the success to the aggressive campaign adopted by the company. M/S Vikas Enterprises was awarded as an Area Champion for the Jammu region by the Managing Director. M K Sharma (GM) , F C Verma (GM), Vishal Malik ( MM), Surinder Sharma (ASM) and others. |
|
Plea of Action Committee Development Charges to Govt Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: A meeting of the Action Committee Development Charges, Nanak Nagar, was held today under the chairmanship of Comrade Sukhdev Singh, general secretary of the committee. The meet took strong exception to the Government order fixing Rs 40000 per kanal regularisation charges for sector 6,7,8,9,10 and 14 of Nanak Nagar despite the fact that regularisation charges for rest of the area of Nanak Nagar were Rs 5000 per kanal in 1974. High rates for the regularisation are being imposed notwithstanding the assurance by the Chief Minister for parity with areas like Gorkha Nagar, Pukar Colony, Bhatindi, Narwal, Jogi Gate, Purani Roulki, Mana Basti, New Plot, said the meet. While opposing the discrimination, the Action Committee appealed the State Government to regularise these sectors at uniform nominal charges as the inhabitants of Nanak Nagar belong to lower middle class and they had not encroached the land but properly purchased it. Prominent among those who attended the meeting, included Krishan Singh, Dalbir Singh, Harbhajan Singh Bali, Daljit Singh, Raghubir Singh, Dharam Pal, Gurbachan Singh, Dupinder Pal Singh, M P Singh, Inderpal Singh and Narinder Singh. Dutta elected president of Goods Carrier Association Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Joginder Singh Dutta of M/s Dutta Roadlines, has been elected president of All J&K Goods Carrier Association, election of which was held yesterday. He defeated his nearest rival Shoukat Parvez of M/s Assam Guhati Roadways by a margin of 17 votes. Mr Dutta secured 54 votes against 37 by Shoukat Parvez. Election for the post of president was held under the supervision of Jeet Singh Khajuria. The other election committee members were Vivek Mehta, Ajab Singh, Sandeep Singh Advocate, Tarlochan Singh, Naresh Sharma and Sukhdev Singh. After his election, Mr Dutta thanked all his supporters and pledged to highlight the genuine demands of All J&K Goods Carrier Association. Leakage of PHE pipes
breeding water borne Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: Measures are underway for re-modelling of water supply scheme in Greater Jammu by way of taping water from Chenab for which comprehensive project on turn key basis has been formulated. Replying to a question of Shanti Devi, the Minister of State for Irrigation and PHE, Sayed Bashir Ahmed today informed the House that the Department has chalked out a plan to check the leakage of pipes wherever necessary way of replacement of old and rotten pipes of the on-going schemes. He said that Rs one crore has been spent during the current financial year for replacement of pipes at 166 leaking point. Replying to the supplementaries, the Minister said that funds for the implementation of re-modelling of Greater Jammu project are being sought under Asian Development Bank Loan Schemes (ADBLS) under which Rs 27.53 crore have been earmarked for the replacement of outdated pipes and gadgets. The Minister admitted that it was fact that some of the pipes of the old city having outlived their life, have resulted in leakages. "The leakages are being checked by way of replacement of old and rotten pipes under the on-going scheme ‘Special improvement of existing distribution system in Jammu city’. Replying to a question the Minister admitted that it was also a fact that leakage of pipes can spread water borne diseases in the city. He however, assured that all preventive measures to plug leakages to the extent possible to avoid outbreak of any disease. Meeting reviews Jammu Festival arrangements Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 1: A review meeting for holding Jammu Festival (Jammu Mela) being organized from April 13 to April 15 to promote cultural tourism in the region was held here today. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu B. R Sharma while chairing the meeting, said that a festive look will be given to the City of Temples in the wake of Jammu mela He called upon the officers of various Government departments to coordinate properly for providing civic amenities to the people. Mr Sharma asked the commercial establishments, Hoteliers Association and NGOs for active participation to add grandeur to the festival. He also sought for the private sponsorship in illumination, hoarding and advertisement to attract the people to make it a success. He called upon them to arrange the Dogra cuisines and other eatables. The meeting discussed in threadbare the programme for the festival which includes the commencement taking out of main procession from Vivekanand Chowk. The procession will pass through Raghunath Bazaar, City Chowk, Old Hospital Road, Purani Mandi, Link Road, Jain Bazaar, Chowk Chabutra and ultimately culminate at Mubarak Mandi Complex. The meeting was informed that Mubarak Mandi Complex will be illuminated during the mela. The meeting further discussed the repairs of streetlight by Power Development Department and Municipal Corporation before the start of the mela. There will be no power cut from 6 p. m to 12 p. m from April 13 to April 15. Face lifting of roads and venue sites, regulation of traffic, transport facilities, medical facilities and drinking water facilities at various point were also discussed in the meeting. The meeting was informed by the Chamber of Commerce and other associations that 20 percent discount would be given to the mela participants on tour and travel to the historical places in the city. The Hoteliers Association assured for 30 to 40 percent discount to the people in the restaurant and will also provide Dogra cuisine to the people. The meeting also announced that prizes would be awarded to the best-decorated and illuminated bazaar, hotel, shop and private building. Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Hirdesh Kumar Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ajay Khajuria, Director Tourism, Nirmal Sharma, Vice Chairman JDA, K. B Jandial, Director Education, Manoj Divedi, RTO, Gurdarshan Singh, SE, PHE, Ashok Gupta, SE, PDD, SE, PWD, and other seniors of concerned departments were present in the meeting. |
|
| home | state | national | business| editorial | advertisement | sports | |
