Daily Excelsior.........State

JAMMU, Apr 2: Clerical cadre employees from various government departments held a large protest rally at Exhibition ground here today and resolved to extend their pen down strike up to April 9.

Striking clerical cadre employees under the banner of Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh All Departments Clerical Staff Association assembled at Exhibition Ground near Press Club of Jammu in large number this morning and held demonstration for some time. They were raising slogans in support of their demands regarding removal of anomalies in their pay grades. The main demand included removal of pay anomalies in the grades of junior, senior and head assistants besides steno -typists/ JSAs.

Employees leaders including Rehmat Ullah Malik, Ram Kumar, Ravi Singh, R P Sharma, Anil Kumar Mehta, C L Koul and others addressed the gathering and criticised the State Government for not accepting the long pending demand of the agitating employees. They said despite assurance by the Government, nothing was done to redress their demand. Only false assurances came from the Divisional Commissioner who held talks with the 15-member Negotiation Committee of the striking employees.

The reports of strike have also been received from Srinagar, Leh, Kathua, Doda, Rajouri, Udhampur and other parts of the State. In Poonch employees held protest at Pritam Park and shouted slogans against Government. Mohd Bashir Mir was leading the protest.

Meanwhile, the Association leaders in a meeting held today resolved to extend strike upto April 9. They appealed the employees to remain united and take their strike to the logical conclusion.

Pension to Goa freedom fighters

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Jammu Kashmir Goa Freedom Fighters Association (JKGFFA) today expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad for sanctioning pension in their favour.

Addressing a press conference, Tilak Raj, president said that their delegation headed by Ram Dashrath Tupe, president Akhil Bhartiya Goa Swatantrata Sangram Sangh had called upon the Chief Minister and highlighted their long pending demand of pension.

He said the Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the delegation and sanctioned the pension in the favour of Goa freedom fighter from the State.

It was apprised by the association that out of total twenty participants of Goa freedom movement, only nine were alive, while rest of the others had passed away.

The members of the association including Surinder Mohan, Om Prakash, Sham Lal, Atma Ram, Bharat Bhushan Sharma and Surjit Gupta were also present on the occasion.

SSSC holds protest rally

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The Jammu and Kashmir State Samaj Sudhar Committee (SSSC) today held a protest rally against corruption, unemployment and the attitude of NHPC Uri for mitigating the suffering of the people of the area as their land has been occupied by National Hydrel Power Corporation (NHPC) for construction of Uri Hydrel Project.

The protest rally was led by Mohd Yousaf Wani, state president of the committee. The rally starting from Press Club shouting slogens against corruption, unemployment and NHPC authorties culminated at same venue as policemen did not allow them to proceed further.

While addressing the gathering, Mr Wani stressed the need of eradicating the corruption from grassroot level and alleged that State Government has completely lost control over prices of essential commodities. He said that Government was sleeping over the issue of poor people and has not taken any step to save them from further starvation and hardships.

Mr Wani further said that NHPC Uri has failed to mitigate the suffering of the people of area who have given their property to NHPC for construction of Uri Hydrel Project. He said that NHPC has failed to fulfill its commitments.

Mr Wani also said that implementation of Roshni Act has benefited a lot but still the deserving poor people who had been deprived and ignored by the concerned.

Among others who addressed the rally included Narinder Pal Choudhary, R Verma, Javed Malik, Mohan Choudhary, Mohd Aslam Khan, Parvesh Sharma, Gul Pardesi, Ali Modh Mir, Raj Sharma, Shahadat Hussian and Amar Nath .

PHE employees highlight demands

Excelsior Correspondent

UDHAMPUR, Apr 2: The monthly meeting of district executive committee of PHE Employees Association (PHEEA) was held here under chairmanship of Som Nath district president of PHEEA and INTUC.

The demands projected in the meeting pertained to putting an end to the discrimination with PHE workers and employees of Jammu province, as all the workers in Kashmir valley were getting a minimum of Rs 2100 per month as against from Rs 500 to Rs 1500 in different areas for the same nature of job which their counterparts were performing in Kashmir province.

The meeting demanded release of 6% DA installment, benefit of essential services by way of providing them one and a half day extra salary, change in designation as per nature of job being performed by the workers, implementation of SRO 149 in letter and spirit and release of pending pay dues of PHE Department workers and employees.

The speakers in the meeting expressed concern over continuing process of back-door appointments and demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter as they apprehended that various ministers might have indulged in this wrong practice.

Other demands voiced in the meeting included provision of benefit of SRO 64 to workers who despite putting in more than 15 years of regular services have not been regularized so far. Holding of Departmental Promotion Committee meeting was yet another demand voiced in the meeting. The speakers also called for updating of GP Fund schedule of employees.

While addressing Mr Som Nath criticized the Government for meting out step motherly treatment to departmental workers of Jammu province and appealed the workers to remain united.

Others who addressed the meeting included Shiv Lal Pathania, Baldev Singh, Rattan Singh, Tilak Raj, Jagdish Magotra, Arjun Singh, Baldev Raj, Vijay Kumar, Subash Chander, Shamsher Singh, Jabbar Singh and Mohinder Singh.

CM to take up industrialists' issue with PM

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday assured industry leaders in J&K that he would take up with the Prime Minister the withdrawal of incentives to the industry in the State.

He said he was writing to Dr. Manmohan Singh about the adverse impact of the decision on industry in Jammu & Kashmir and urge him to continue the package of incentives for the next four years as committed by the Central Government while announcing the package 6 years ago. The package had been announced for 10 years like in the case of the North East.

A group of industrialists from Jammu met today with the Chief Minister and briefed him about the negative impact of the Central Government’s decision to withdraw the industry related incentives. They urged him to persuade the Union Government to revoke its decision.

The Chief Minister told them that 3 days ago he had discussed the issue with the Prime Minister. During the discussion, it was felt that some points needed clarification, he said, adding that today’s meeting was aimed at appreciating the issue properly so that it is again projected before the Prime Minister. He said on the basis of the inputs received today, he would write to the PM requesting for continuation of the incentives to the industry in J&K.

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma, Minister for Industries and Commerce, Nawang Rigzin Jora, Advisor to Chief Minister, Janak Raj Gupta, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Anil Goswami and Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Dr. Pawan Kotwal were also present in the meeting.

Migrants demand role in settlement of Kashmir issue

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The migrants and non migrants core committee of Hindu Muslim Sikh Itehad has urged the Government of India that Kashmiri migrants be taken into confidence before the settlement of vexed Kashmir issue.

While addressing a press conference here today, president of the organization, AK Bali demanded for the eviction of tresspassers of migrant's property in Kashmir region. He also urged Government to grant ex-gratia relief to the victims of the migrated families against several losses faced by the community.

He also demanded temporary yet respectable settlement of Kashmiri migrants in Jagti till their honourable return to valley besides political reservation for the members of uprooted community.

Among other demands which were highlighted on the occassion included appointment of Kashmiri migrant youth on the posts of retired employees of the community since mass exodus from the valley, special employment package, minority status, release of HRA and CCA to the Government employees of the community and self employment loans to all the unemployeed youth with 50 percent subsidy and nominal interest.

Dharna by Doda migrants enters 98th day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The Dharna being staged by the migrants of Doda district, in front of Divisional Commissioner's office today entered 98th consecutive day today. They have been demanding relief as well as rehabilitation for quite some time.

While speaking to the media, president Earstwhile Doda Migrant Committee, Suraj Prakash Rana alleged that in the wake of much publicized "Jammu festival" Government is harrassing the protesting migrants sitting on Dharna which is in violation of their democratic rights.

Mr Rana maintained that the Divisional Commissioner had assured them relief in compliance with the direction of Supreme Court and added that despite such assurances nothing has been done so far in this regard.

Mr Rana further apprehended that some of the migrants from Doda are being provided with relief on pick and choose basis and lamented that was quite injustice to the others.

He urged Government to provide relief to all the migrants in compliance with the direction of Supreme Court and state High Court. He further declared that they will continue with their peaceful demonstration untill the Government agrees to their demands.

Among others who spoke on the occassion were Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, Soam Nath, Rakesh Kumar and Swami Raj.

Kalash Yatra of Gayatri Mahayagya taken out

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: An impressive Kalash Yatra was taken by hundreds of devotees in connection with four-day long 108 Kundiya Gayatri Mahayagya which started at Parade Ground here this morning.

The Yatris attired in yellow dresses including a seizable number of women devotees with Kalsh on their heads passed through various bazars of City.

The jhankis exhibiting Vyasan Mukhti, Broon Hatyaa and other Sapt Kranties of Gayatri Parivar accompanied the Yatra.

The Yatra which started from Parade Ground here after a brief lecture by Yagya Charya of Shanti Kunj Haridwar was flagged off by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), state chief Ashok Khajuria. BJP leaders Yudhvir Sethi and Surinder Sharma were also present on the occasion. It while passing through various markets later culminated at Parade Ground. Hundreds of devotees enroute welcomed the yatris by showering flowers on them. They also offered sharbat and fruits to them.

The Yagya, is being organised for the world peace and prosperity of mankind. The Kalash yatra will be followed by Devpoojan tomorrow and the Yagya will culminate with puranahuti on April 5. The Yagya is being performed by Gayatri Parivar and no fee is being charged for devotees for performing the hawan.

Check pollution or registration will be
cancelled, Babu to industrialists

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Minister of State for Power Babu Singh on Wednesday said that Government is committed to ensure sustainable development by striking an equilibrium between industrial growth and conservation of eco-system.

The Minister was speaking at a meeting to review the implementation of decisions of the meeting of Pollution Control Board on February 17, 2008, here, at Kathua.

The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner Jammu Sudhanshu Pandey, Commissioner/Secretary PDD S.K. Nayak, Managing Director SIDCO, Irfan Yaseen, DC Kathua Sarita Chauhan, Chairman Pollution Control Board C.M. Seth, SSP Kathua, J.P. Singh, Chief Engineer M&RE D.S. Powar, Chief Engineer System & Operation R. K. Selli, Director Floriculture K. K. Sharma and Director Industries & Commerce Pradeep Gupta.

The Minister said that present Government is providing several incentives to the industrialist as industrialization leads to dual benefit of employment generation and creation of market for local raw material. However, he said, pollution of environment will not be allowed in the garb of industrialization.

Expressing concern over the health of people living in the vicinity of industries, Mr. Singh said that the chemical effluents emanating from various industries are not only serious health hazard for people exposed to them but have a long term impact over the ecological balance. He said that the health of citizens is the foremost concern of the Government and every effort will be initiated to nip the menace of industrial pollution in the bud.

It was decided in the meeting that registration of industries who have failed to install Pollution Control Devices (PCD) will be cancelled. A team of officers of Pollution Control Board (PCB) and SIDCO will conduct surprise raids of various industrial estates at Govindsar, Hatli Morh, Ghati etc. in Kathua district to check the installation of PCDs.

The Minister asked the officers of DIC Kathua to register the new industries only after they install PCDs. The industries which have not installed PCDs were directed to get them installed within 15 days time period.

Deliberating upon the measures to channelize and treat industrial discharge, it was decided that the nallah at Sawan chack will be widened so that all the waste of industries is collected and sent to treatment plant. Mr. Singh said that he would take up the matter of widening of nallah adjacent to national highway with the Central authorities for which the State can release Rs 1.56 lakh.

In another meeting with the officers of Floriculture Department, the Minister asked them to complete the work of Park being developed at Kathua in a time bond manner which will shortly be inaugurated by Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Mr.Babu Singh also had a meeting with the members of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and impressed upon them to set up schools in the district for providing quality education to the children. He said that land for setting up schools will be provided at Badala.

Youth NC stages dharna against price hike

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: J&K Youth National Conference today staged a protest Dharna near Tawi Bridge against the failure of the Government to check the prices as well as black marketing of kerosene oil besides other essential commodities. The Dharna was organized under the leadership of provincial president, Surinder Singh.

While addressing the protestors, Mr Singh alleged the both the Congress led coalition governments in the state and centre have utterly failed in controlling the continuous price rise. He said that owing to soaring prices of all the essential commidities of daily use, common man is the worst sufferer.

He demanded immidiate ban on the export of Basmati rice from the state and alleged that some corrupt officials in the department of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CAPD) are have indulged in black marketing of several food items.

Meanwhile senior vice president and Ex-Minister, S Harbans Singh while addressing the gathering said that the present state Government has completely failed to come upto the expectations of the people of the state.

Prominent among others who addressed the Dharna included President Mahila Wing of the party, Bimla Luthra, block president, Jammu east, Ayub Malik, block president Gandhi Ngar, Rajesh Bakshi, Sanjay Gupta, Farman Ali, Ajay Pal Gill, Mohinder Charak and Rajinder Singh.

"Restore pre-1953 status"

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Jammu and Kashmir Labour Party has demanded restoration of pre-1953 status as the only remedy to the prevailing turmoil in the trouble-torn State.

Addressig a press conference here today, general secretary of the party, Bashir Ahmed Bashir suggested that only autonomous councils can ensure equitable development of all three regions of the state; Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. He also sought complete merger of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) with the parent state.

"Our organization will leave no stone unturned to carry out a sustained campaign in favour of ending millitancy and motivating the misguided youth to shun violence and join the mainstream," he added.

Among others who shared their views were Mohammad Ramzan Kalalpuri, Farooq Ahmed, Mohammad Yousaf and Mohammad Latif Ganai.

BJP appoints spokesperson in corporation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) Councillor, Subash Jandial has been appointed as the party spokesperson in general house of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).

According to a press note issued by the office of the Mayor, JMC, the appointemnt has been made by the Mayor, Kavinder Gupta in consultation with the party’s top brass.

Bhalla inaugurates tube-well

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Member Legislative Assembly Gandhi Nagar constituency Raman Bhalla inaugurated 8 lakh gallons capacity of water per day tube-well at Sanjay Nagar, which was constructed by J&K Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) here today.

Interacting with locals, MLA said that the present Government led by Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has been taking keen interest to develop every nook and corner of the State at par with urbanites. He said that on the commissioning of tube well, there will be no water scarcity in Sanjay Nagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Rani Talab, Digiana Bazar, backside of Ashram and its adjoining areas. To deal with water scarcity, he informed that the Government has already dedicated more than 35 tube-wells and 100 hand pumps in the constituency so that the people do not face any convenience during summer season. He said that with the completion of Borea Filtration plant, near about 18 lakh gallons of water would be produced.

Highlighting the achievements of present Government, he said that scores of roads were upgraded and black topped, hundreds of schools were opened and upgraded with latest techniques, maintenance of interior lanes and drains, nallahs were maintained and desilted, construction of parks on modern lines. To provide uninterrupted power supply in the constituency, he said that scores of transformers were upgraded and installed besides construction of receiving stations, rotaries, construction of community hall, construction of Health Care centers, up-gradation of Gandhi Nagar Hospital with an estimated cost of Rs. 11 crore with Air-Condition O.P.D facilities and remaining up-gradation works are under progress. He said that a Health Club for youngster with an estimated cost of Rs. 12 lakh has been constructed in Sanjay Nagar.

Among others Corporator Sanjay Nagar Choudhary Dwarka, Corporator Gangyal Satish Sharma, Corporator Nanak Nagar Kalbushan Sharma, CEO J&K ERA Pankaj Jain, S.E B.B Sharma, XENs, prominent citizens and other senior officers of the concerned department were present on the occasion.

Swami Premanand Ashram to
organize Shat Chandi Mahayagya

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The 22nd Virat Gyan Bhakti Yog Samelan and Shat Chandi Mahayagya for world peace and amity will be held from April 6 to 13 under the guidance and supervision of Swami Premanand Ji Mahraj at his Akhnoor road Damana Ashram.

Giving details of the programme at a press conference here, today Swami Ji said the Kumbh yatra will start from Ashram, Damana at 8am on April 6. The yatra will pass via Patoli, Palora, Sangrampur, Nagbani, Baba Jitoo shrine in Jhiri to Akhnoor.

He said at Akhnoor Jiapotha Ghat Kalsh Poojan will be performed. From Akhnoor the Yatra will take the Bantalab, Barnai route to reach the Ashram in the evening.

Swami Ji has urged all the devotees to take part in the Kumbh Yatra and Shat Chandi Mahayagya and Virat Gyan Bhakt Yog Samelan.

He said after the Kalash Sathapana in the Ashram, Devta pooja will be performed on April 7 and Puran Ahuti will be performed on April 11.

The great saints and sages from other parts of country will also participate in the function and they will deliver Provochans (religious discourses) on April 11, 12 and 13, he added.

Governor inaugurates Jamwal's painting exhibition

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Governor Lt. General (Retd) S K Sinha today appreciated the endeavours being made to provide larger canvass for artists to present their art works and hoped that this will infuse a new spirit of enthusiasm among budding artists.

General Sinha was inaugurating an exhibition of paintings by N D Jamwal at Kala Kendra here this morning. The occasion was to celebrate the Golden Jubilee Year of the Art Journey of multi-faceted artist of Jammu, who has established his credentials as a renowned artist, painter, sculptor and poet.

The Governor congratulated Mr Jamwal on his works and said the holding of such an exhibition during the ongoing Jammu Festival is a befitting and appropriate tribute to the artist.

In his welcome address, Secretary, Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi dwelt on the artistic journey of Mr Jamwal and said that the Academy is privileged to show-case his works during the golden jubilee year of his artistic odyssey.

Dr Masoodi also spoke about the initiatives taken by the Academy during the past few years to give fillip to art and culture and said this journey will continue to give wider exposure to budding artists in particular. He said the art work of Mr Jamwal has been widely recognised within and outside the State, as he has carved a niche in the world of art and Dogri literature with his outstanding contributions.

Police averts major clash, gun seized
BSP rally receives strong oppn in Kathua

Excelsior Correspondent

KATHUA, Apr 2: While the Bahujan Samaj Party faced strong opposition from the ousted party cadre led by former MLA Sagar Chand, the police averted a major clash between members of both groups when they came face to face at main chowk during a rally this morning.

The trouble started when the rally of BSP led by incharge J&K and National general secretary of the Party Narender Kashyap from UP was moving towards Kathua town from Kalibari. Near Main Chowk Kathua town, members of dissident group led by Sagar Chand intercepted the rally. The heated exchanges, allegations and counter allegations started between members from both the sides. It was followed by scuffle.

The district administration sensing trouble had already made elaborate security arrangements. The police led by SP Kathua J P Singh timely acted and defused the situation by separating the rival group. The movement of rally was disrupted for some time but the police prevented the major clash. It also seized some weapons and a .12 bore gun from a car accompanying rally. A case was registered in this connection. However, no one was arrested or injured in minor scuffle. The rivals also raised slogans against Mayawati and Narender Kashyap and burnt their effigies.

Later, rally moved towards Ramlila Ground where Mr Kashyap, B S Chauhan and Som Raj Manjotra addressed the gathering. Som Raj has been given the party mandate by the BSP to contest elections from Kathua assembly constituency.

NABARD sanctions loan worth Rs 602 cr to J&K

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), has sanctioned a loan of Rs 602 crore to the J&K State for the current financial year.

Chief General Manager, NABARD (J&K), A K Mathur disclosed that the loan has been sanctioned for the construction of rural roads, bridges, drinking water schemes, flood protection works and irrigation projects in various districts of J&K State.

Mr Mathur said this is highest ever amount sanctioned by the NABARD to the J&K government for the development of rural infrastructure. He further disclosed that the cumulative amount sanctioned to the government of J&K by NABARD for development of infrastructure in the state works out to Rs 2167.66 crore since 1995-96. The cumulative disbursement of loan under RIDF to the state stands at Rs 1243.43 crore since inception.

He said the agency has also extended refinance support to RRBs for crop loans and long term loans for farm and non-farm activities. NABARD also sanctioned 54 Dairy projects under Venture Capital Fund Schemes of Government of India. He said nearly 2800 Self Help Groups have been credit linked in the state so far.

JU for closer co-operation in academic as CBM
Peace talks with democratic Pak Govt can
be more enduring, says VC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Bilateral talks and confidence building measures (CBMs) between India and newly established democratic set up in Pakistan are likely to be difficult but can be more enduring, said Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu (JU) and an expert of international politics, Prof. Amitabh Mattoo.

He was speaking during an interactive session, after his return from Islamabad in Pakistan where he attended the Pugwash Conference on regional security, organized by Centre for Quality Assurance and Strategic Planning in the campus, here today.

He added, "We witnessed for past quite some time that war has not happened between the two nations with democratic establishments. It has only happened in those cases where one of the sides or both were deprived of democratic Government, as democracy reduces the possibilties of war".

He further said that forces of democracy were expanding suddenly and civil society was more vibrant than ever before and it’s an historic oportunity to create cooperative and comprehensive security framework in the region.

Briefing media persons about his recent visit to Islamabad, the VC apprised that he held meetings with Pakistan Cabinet Ministers Sherry Rehman and Shah Mahmod Qureshi and talked about various possibilites to enhance peace and confidence building measures.

"I also met Prime Minister (PoK) Sardar Attique Khan and discussed the prospects and possibilities of closer cooperation between the two sides of J&K especially of cementing ties between academic institutions. I also raised the issue of allowing Kashmiri Pandits to visit the Shardapeeth Shrine in PoK", he apprised.

He added that all the leaders were of the view, "There is no role of violence, no alternative to dialogue process, no option more viable than dialogue and democracy is the only way for sustaining peace".

It is to mention that the said conference was attended by 50 delegates from India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Leaders from the State including PDP President, Ms Mehbooba Mufti and NC President, Omar Abdullah were also there.

In the conference, wide ranging talks were held to devise ideas for ensuring long lasting peace in the entire sub continent focussing especially on Indo-Pak relations and prevailing tension over Afghan-Pak border.

However, Prof. Mattoo emphasized upon the need to have closer cooperation in terms of academics, as he said it can be a biggest CBM.

Later, responding to a question over possibilty of Central University status to JU, he said the university deserves it the most and should be given too.

Earlier, the welcome address of the session was presented by Dr. Meenakshi Kilam, Director, Centre for Quality Assurance and Strategic Planning. The session was concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Pritam Singh, media advisor to VC.

Governor, CM to receive Guru Granth Jagriti yatra

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: J&K Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha and Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad will accord grand reception to ‘ Guru Manyo Granth Jagriti Yatra’ which will enter J&K State on April 4 after coming directly from Golden Temple, Amritsar.

The Governor and Chief minister will receive the yatra alongwith other members of the official reception committee of the State at around 10 am at Lakhanpur the entry point of J&K at Punjab border. The Sikh Jagriti yatra, commenced from Nanded in Maharashtra and after passing through various states and regions is now in Punjab. It will reach on April 4 here from Amritsar.

Addressing press conference here today, Minister for Higher Education, Gulchain Singh Charak who is also chairman of the Reception Committee said that elaborate security and other arrangements have been made by the Administration in view of coming Sikh religious yatra to the State. It is great occasion for the people from all the communities in the State to accord a warm welcome to the historic yatra.

Yatra after coming from Lakhanpur on April 4 will arrive at Nanak Nagar Gurdwara on same evening and on April 5 it will proceed at 9 am to Gole Market Gandhinagar, Satwari Chowk, R S Pura , Dablehar, Kirpind, Kullian and will come back to Digiana Ashram at 9 pm. After night stay here. On April 6 Yatra will reach MAM College. People from various communities and from Sikh biradari will have darshan of the Holy Guru Granth Sahib and the ‘Shastras’ kept in a decorated Rath (vehicle). On the same evening Yatra will reach Rehari Chungi Gurdwara. Next day on April 7 it will start from Chungi and leave for Bikram Chowk, University Road, Qasim Nagar, Narwal Bye Pass, Kunjwani to Suwankha Morh, Ramgarh, Vijaypur and reach Kathua in the evening. After night halt at Kathua on April 7, the next morning ( April 8) Yatra will leave for Pubjab at 9 am. All the departments including police, PHE, PDD, Medical JMC and other local bodies, have been directed to make arrangements.

Referring to arrangements at Lakhanpur, Charak said some traffic will be diverted to old Kathua road via Nagri-Parole. The people/ devotees will be asked to wait on the road side on one side just to have glimpse of yatra. Traffic authorities have been asked to properly regulate traffic along the highway during yatra and ensure smooth flow of traffic.

Jagriti Yatra arrangements reviewed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Mahant Manjit Singh of Dera Nangali Sahib reviewed arrangements for the Sikh Jagriti Yatra reaching here from Punjab on April 4.

Leaders of various Sikh organisations participated in the meeting held at Digiana Ashram here today. He said in connection with 300th celebrations of Guru Granth Sahib and display of weapons of Guru Gobind Singhji, a grand yatra has been started from Nanded in Maharashtra and it will reach Jammu on April 4. He appealed all the organisations, Administration and the general public of the region to render full cooperation and support by according rousing reception to the Yatra.

He disclosed that Sangat from Digiana Ashram will leave for Lakhanpur at 8 am in cars and buses to receive the yatra. All organisations assured full cooperation to Mahantji in this connection.

CM orders release of Ranbir Canal
water ahead of schedule

Exclesior Correspondent

Jammu, Apr 2: Water in the Ranbir Canal here would be released for irrigation purposes on April 6 this year instead of April 13, as has been the practice in the past.

The decision was taken at a high level meeting convened and chaired by the Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad here this morning to review the requirement and availability of the irrigation water for wheat crop, especially in the wake of dry spell.

Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Minister for Rural Development, Mula Ram, Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation & FC, Manjit Singh, Minister of State for Agriculture, Gharu Ram, Minister of State for PHE & Irrigation, Dr. Ramesh Chander, legislators, Suman Lata, Shanti Devi and Ashwani Kumar, Chief Secretary, B. R . Kundal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Anil Goswami, Principal Secretary, Agriculture, Sonali Kumar, Principal Secretary, PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, A. K. Angurana and senior officers of agriculture and irrigation & flood control departments were present.

The Chief Minister called upon concerned officers to ensure that the water in the canal was released earlier than normally done to benefit the wheat crop upon which it was decided that the ongoing de-silting and repair works on the canal would be completed within a couple of days and water released on April 6 up to Jammu city and onwards on April 8.

Mr. Azad stressed on the need to draw up a plan for de-silting of the canal in future during winter and release of water in February to optimally benefit the farmers. He said global change in climate warranted advance planning and asked the concerned officers to provide for supplementing the irrigation facility through tube wells wherever needed.

The Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mohammad Dilawar Mir said that 80% de-silting of the canal had been completed and the remaining work would be concluded in four days. He said work was going on satisfactorily and the Government had already released Rs. 1 crore for de-silting of the canal.

The Ranbir Canal irrigates 34,000 hectares of land in Jammu even as it has the potential for 55,000 hectares. The canal runs through the villages of Marh, Gajansoo, Ghou-Manhasan, Pounichak, Nagbani, Mishriwala, R. S. Pura, Tawi Islands, Suchetgarh and Arnia.

Working hours of Colleges changed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Government has ordered change in the timings of Government Colleges located within the limits of Srinagar Municipal Corporation. Now all colleges shall open from 9.00 A.M to 3.00 P.M with effect from April 7, 2008.

Accused in fake appointment case chargesheeted

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 2: Crime Branch today presented chargesheet against two persons in a fake appointment order case.

An official spokesman said that Crime Branch received a complaint from Kounsar Jan, daughter of Ghulam Ahmad Shah of Saidkadal, Srinagar wherein it was alleged that one Habib-ullah Bhat, a resident of Poshpora Trehgam, who was living as tenant in the neighborhood of her matrimonial home introduced her to one M K Bhat and given the notion that the person can arrange Government job for her.

Subsequently, an amount of Rs 56000 was taken from Kounsar Jan against which an appointment order as Junior Assistant in Floriculture Department was provided which later turned out to be fake.

On the receipt of complaint, a case was registered at Crime Branch Kashmir for in-depth investigation.

During the course of investigation, the appointment order issued by Director Floriculture in the favour of the complainant was seized and admitted hand writing of Director Floriculture was sent to FSL for comparison and expert opinion.

The FSL experts opined that the order in question was fake and forged. Subsequently, the persons well versed with the facts of the case were examined.

The actual identity of M K Bhat was ascertained as Assadullah Bhat, son of Ghulam Ahmad Bhat of Poshpora, Kupwara. The duo by deceitful means cheated the innocent lady and grabbed the amount in lieu of a fake and forged appointment order.

On the basis of investigation conducted by Crime Branch, a prima-facie case of cheating was established against the accused and charge-sheet of the case presented before the court of law for judicial determination.

Visible change in Pak mindset on Kashmir: Nirmal Singh

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: There is a visible change in the mindset of Pakistan on terrorism and intelligentsia of that country is totally against supporting the terrorists and separatists to wage a war against India.

This was stated by the former State chief of BJP and its National Executive Member, Dr Nirmal Singh while talking to mediapersons here, today after his return form Pugwash conference which was held in Islamabad on March 29 and 30.

Maintaining that there is a sea change in Pak mindset, he said the former diplomats of the country who attended the conference were of the view that the weapons used by Pakistan to bleed India have now recoiled.

He said the non participation of Hurriyat and other separatist organizations in Pugwash is also an indication that they are fast losing the ground and situation is turning in favour of India.

Dr Singh, while lambasting PDP, supremo, Mehbooba Mufti and NC patriach, Omar Abdullah said they crossed the constitutional limits in their speech and the views expressed by them in the conference were to address their constituencies in Kashmir.

He said there is such a shift in Pak stand on Kashmir that one of the former diplomats said that self determination is now outdated and the neighboring country has realized that there will be no change in boundaries with India.

Maintaining that India’s case has become stronger, he said the delegates from Afghanistan and Iran were also sympathetic towards Indian cause.

Dr Singh said "while keeping my Party’s view point in the conference, I made it clear that BJP will not accept autonomy, self rule or demilitralization as majority of people of J&K are with India.

"I told it in clear terms that before any proposal on opening of new routes for promotion of trade is mooted, the terrorism should end", he added.

Outrightly rejecting the allegations about the human rights violations, Dr Singh said "I informed the delegates that 80 percent among the dead during the turmoil were the innocent people including nationalist muslims, Kashmiri Pandits, Dogras, Sikhs and security forces personnel who were killed by militants".

Touseef, Tariq to undergo internship at NJA Bhopal

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The National Judicial Academy (NJA), Bhopal has selected Touseef Magray and Tariq Qazi, final year students of The Law School, University of Jammu (JU) as full-time interns.

This is for first time that Law students from the State have been selected to represent the Law institutes of North India in such a prestigious institute.

Earlier, both these students along with Aditya, another student, had represented India in 2nd Law Asia International Moot Court Competition organized by University of Hong Kong at Hong Kong.

Both Tariq and Touseef will undergo a 21-day of internship period, wherein they would be associated in different activities and programme at the academy and provided with an opportunity to interact with Judges of the Supreme Court and various high courts.

It is to mention that the academy has been established to impart training through various courses, conferences and workshops to judicial officers across the country.

Kuldeep Wattal Memorial Trust organizes debating contest

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: A debating contest on the topic This is an appropriate time for Kashmiri Pandits to return to Valley was organised by Kuldeep Wattal Memorial Trust in collaboration with Sanjeevani Sharda Kender today at Sharda Bhawan Bohri.

The debating contest was held under the supervision of Dr. Bhushan Lal Koul, while Prof. T N Shalla presided over the function which was also graced by Mata Ji Nirmala Pandit a spiritual Guru.

Total 24 students drawn from different schools participated in the contest. These students represented Mixed Higher Secondary School, Camp Roop Nagar, Anuradha Welfare Committee, Barnai, SOS Talab Tillo, Camp Higher Secondary School Nagrota, Coventry Scholars Higher Secondary School Chinore, Government Higher Secondary School for Migrants Purkhoo, Anuradha Higher Secondary School, Barnai, Ranjit Memorial High School, Barnai and Sanjeevani Sharda Kender Computer Centre.

The first prize of Rs one thousand was bagged by Ritika Rajput , while second prize of Rs 700 was given to Vaishali Koul. The third prize of Rs 500 hundred was bagged by Komal Koul. Besides Prabhal Pandit and Asha Bhat bagged the two consolation prizes.

They were given away the prizes on behalf of the Kuldeep Wattal Memorial Trust by Prof. T N Shalla, Mrs Sunita Wattal chief patron of the Trust and P K Wattal.

Prof. P N Trisal, Prof B L Fotedar and Prof O N Chrangoo acted as judges while the stage was managed by Satish Munshi. Among others the function was attended by T N Pandita, president Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra, Kiran Wattal, Dr R L Bhat and M L Bhat general secretary, Kuldeep Wattal Memorial Trust.

On the occasion Shanti Lal Sidha presented a devotional song.

Addressing the function Prof. T N Shalla said that terrorism which started from Kashmir in 1989-90 has now engulfed the entire country. He said simple return is not enough to Valley but it should be linked to rehabilitation and retention.

HC dismisses appeals of insurance company

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Justice J P Singh of State High Court today dismissed the appeals filed by Oriental Insurance Company challenging the claims awarded by the MACT in an accident took place on December 31, 1999 near Gordhi in Udhampur district.

The MACT awarded Rs 32,51,000 in favour of the claimants/ dependents those who had died and injured in the accident of Bus-No JK02G-6807. The Oriental Insurance Company challenged the claims on various grounds including that the vehicle was carrying 66 passengers beyond the authorized capacity of 44 which amount to violation of terms and conditions of insurance policy and appellant insurer was not liable to pay the amount awarded in favour of the claimants.

Advocate D S Chouhan appearing for the Insurance Company submitted that the company was not liable to indemnify the owner and satisfy the claim in question because the vehicle in question had been plying with passengers in excess of its authorized capacity which would amount to violation of the terms and conditions of Insurance Policy.

After hearing Advocate D S Chouhan appearing for the Oriental Insurance Company and Advocates PS Chandel, ML Gupta and GR Asgar appearing for the respondents, Justice J P Singh observed that in view of the statement of counsel for the Insurance Company that the Insurance Company cannot deny its liability to satisfy the awards arising out of the claim cases, the appeals stand dismissed.

With these observations, the Court dismissed all the 13 appeals filed by the Oriental Insurance Company against the claims awarded by MACT.

JJSF protests against Higher Education Deptt

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The Jammu Joint Students Federation (JJSF) today staged a protest demonstration in front of GGM Science College against the Higher Education Department and burnt the effigy of the concerned Minister.

The protesters were upset over the non-initiation of renovation work at Science College, as it was declared as a heritage building. They also protested against the poor condition of laboratory in Geology Department of the college.

JJSF warned the authorities to fulfill their demands otherwise, they will launch an agitation.

Jammu Festival begins at Samba, Doda

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: As a part of Jammu-festival celebrations, newly carved out district Samba today for the first time, organized a grand mela which was inaugurated by Minister for Higher Education Gulchain Singh Charak.Over 8000 people participated in the celebration.

MP Madan Lal Sharma, MLA Yash Paul Kundal, MLC, Arvinder Singh, Divisional Commissioner, Sudhanshu Pandey, IGP K. Rajindera and local administration attended the function.

The major attractions of the festival were exhibition of various departmental stalls, viz, agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, sheep husbandry, DRDA, education, SSA, industries, KVIB, handicrafts, handloom, ICDS, social welfare, legal awareness, forest, health, civil defence, CA&PD, beopar mandal & stalls of various small & medium scale industries.

Besides, ethnic food stalls with local dishes were also put up jointly by the CA&PD and Anganwari workers of ICDS blocks. The stalls put up by the various banks, i.e.SBI, JKB,PNB under the aegis of District Lead bank (SBI) proved instrumental in creation of banking awareness among the masses.

Meanwhile, grand cultural bonanza performed by the local Dogra artists and school children and Anganwari workers spell bound the audience.

At Doda, the festival was inaugurated by District Development Commissioner (DDC) Doda Khurshid Ahmed Bhatt.

During the three day festival programme a variety of cultural items by the Cultural Office Doda, Rural Sports, holding of departmental stalls are the main attraction of the festival being held for the first time here.

In addition, the departmental stall by the Agriculture, Handloom, Horticulture, Social Welfare, Industries, DRDA, Medical and Cultural Academy have been erected in fascinating manner for the visitors for main awareness among them.

On the first day, Rural Sports, Cultural Programme in the evening and folk dance are being held today.

While speaking on the occasion, DDC stressed upon the participating departments for collective efforts to make the festival programme a successful and result oriented. He said that holding of festival provides a chance to exhibit the cultural talents of the locals enabling them for exposure at State and country level.

BOSE enhances evaluation remuneration

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: The State Board of School Education (BOSE) today announced to enhance remuneration on the evaluation of answer books from the annual session 2008 onwards.

It was said by Prof. N A Ganai, BOSE chairman after a meeting with the Central leadership of All J&K Plus Two Lecturers’ Forum led by H D Qureshi, State chief.

The delegation expressed gratitude to Prof. Ganai for enhancing evaluation remuneration from Rs 8.30 to Rs 10 per answer book and hoped that the remuneration of all other assignments will also be enhanced. A discussion was also held on the conduct and evaluation of the ongoing board examinations.

The delegation comprised of D P Dutta, Manmeet Bali, S. Gurcharan Singh, Charan Dass, N S Jamwal etc.

Sangram Sena, DLF demand shifting of slaughter house

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: A joint meeting of Sangram Sena and Dogra Liberation Front held under the respective leadership of Ram Rattan Raina and Ram Paul Sharma, discussed various problems confronting the people of Jammu region in general and Jammu city in particular.

Sangram Sena chief Ram Rattan Raina while addressing strongly demanded shifting of slaughter house from Dogra Hall to some suitable place, so that people of the area could heave a sigh of relief.

Others who attended the meeting included Capt Rattan Singh Langeh, Rakesh Langer, Akram Khan, Kabir Hussain, Yoginder Joshi, Ajay Singh Charak, Rahul Singh Chowhan etc.

2 killed in accidents

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Two persons were killed and two others sustained injuries in separate road accidents.

Police spokesman said that a labourer was killed and two others received injuries when a tractor trolley bearing registration number JK11-1819 met with an accident at Topa under the jurisdiction of Rajouri Police Station.

The ill-fated vehicle was on its way from Dodaj to Darhal when met with accident.

The deceased has been identified as Mohd Yasin, son of Mohd Hussain of Jabbar Chowkian while injured have been identified as Mukhtiyar, son of Nizam Din and Mohd Khalid. Both have been admitted in the District Hospital, Rajouri.

In another accident, one Rattan Singh, son of Vilayat Singh of Bangalo Banihal was killed when an autorickshaw met with an accident.

Meanwhile, a 22-year old youth namely Rakesh Kumar, son of Bodh Raj of Toll Post, Nagrota allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself at his residence.

The cause behind the death is yet to be ascertained.

Police has taken cognizance of the incident and started inquest proceedings.

Kavinder flays organizers of Jammu Festival

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Mayor Jammu Municipal Corporation, (JMC), Kavinder Gupta has criticized the organizers of Jammu festival for sidelining the JMC during the inaugural function of Jammu Festival yesterday.

In a statement issued here, today, the Mayor took serious exception to the style of functioning of the organizers who did not invite the Corporators of JMC to the inaugural function yesterday.

Mr Gupta said this is a disrespect to the elected representatives of the people. He said even the local corporators of Bahu Fort and adjoining areas were not invited to the function which has generated a lot of resentment among the masses.

Alleging that organizers were working in an arbitrary and authoritarian manner, he said by ignoring the Corporators in inaugural function they have set a wrong precedence.

He said the public representatives have a great role to play in democracy so it is the duty of the authorities to ensure their participation in such functions and no Government can afford ignoring them in public functions.

ASKPC tables demands of KP
displaced people before NHRC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Kundan Kashmiri, general secretary and spokesman of Delhi State All State Kashmiri Pandits Conference (ASKPC) and C L Gudoo, Delhi based KP leader presented the demands and problems of KP displaced people before National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Office, New Delhi today.

They demanded the issuance of white paper by the Central Government regarding the ongoing insurgency in J&K State and also to constitute a judicial commission headed by a Supreme Court Judge to probe the genocide of Kashmiri Pandits during ongoing insurgency since 1989-90.

The KP displaced people also sought their participation in the electoral process by creating constituencies in exile and also the appointment of a custodian to look after the property of Kashmiri Pandits which they left in the Valley.

Government representatives included Relief Commissioner, Vinod Koul and others were also present during the hearing.

MUSS organises sant samelan

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 2: Manav Utthan Sewa Samiti (MUSS) organised two-days Sadhbhawana Sant Samelan here at Pandoka Colony.

In the Samelan, Founder of Manav Dharam Shri Satpal Ji Maharaj Mahatam Faqiranand said that we were conscious about the materialism and forget our own consciousness. He also stressed that satsang gave us uderstanding to understand the supreme energy which is the mastermind of whole universe.

He further added that we have realised our soul by knowing introvert technique for living spiritual master.

Mahatma Kanchna Nand Ji and Mahatma Divya Bai Ji also spoke on the occasion.