Tulip Garden draws 16,000 visitors in 8 days
CM inspects development works in Srinagar

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 7: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad inspected work on several ongoing development projects here this morning.

The Chief Minister took stock of the progress on the upcoming legislature complex, museum complex and the beautification of the Jhelum banks in the summer capital, besides visiting the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.

Work on the legislature complex is going apace and on the instructions of the Chief Minister, the next session of the State legislature is scheduled to be held in the new building sometime in May this year.

The multi-storeyed Rs. 28 crore museum complex is fast coming up on the banks of the Jhelum River at Lal Mandi behind the present SPS Museum building. The building would house the treasure-trove of the State in a scientific manner, the absence of which had been long felt by the lovers of the precious collection in the museum. The old building of the museum had also suffered damages due to the earthquake of October 2005.

The Chief Minister also inspected work on the beautification of the Jhelum banks in the city. Under the project, both banks of the river in the capital city are being beautified in a bid to restore old glory of the Kashmir’s main river in Srinagar.

Mr. Azad also visited the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden where the tulips are in full bloom these days.

The garden has emerged as a great attraction for tourists and locals who are seen thronging here. Since it was thrown open for public on March 30, as many as 16,000 visitors including local people and domestic and foreign tourists, have visited this flori-marvel till Sunday and felt awe-struck with its beauty.

Meanwhile, the garden had special visitors today in the persons of Railway Minister, Lalu Prasad Yadav and his wife and former Chief Minister of Bihar, Rabri Devi. The Minister was overtaken by the bewitching beauty of the garden which he described as awe-inspiring. He said he would ask his Ministry’s officials to organise meetings in Srinagar, adding that there was no reason for anybody to feel scared from visiting this place.

The former Chief Minister of J&K, Dr. Farooq Abdullah and former Union Minister, Sharad Yadav were also among a stream of people visiting the garden today.

FoI, CCI delegations call on Union MoS Finance

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: The delegations of Federation of Industries and Chamber of Commerce and Industry today called on Union Minister of State for Finance P K Bansal and expressed concern of industrialists over the withdrawal of Central Excise exemptions.

Annil Suri, chairman of FoI told the Minister that the withdrawal of Central Excise exemptions will lead to closure of industries in Jammu and Kashmir, retrenchment of over one lakh workers, loss of investors’ confidence and indirect unemployment.

The Minister was informed that the notification has created great apprehension and severely affected the business sentiments in the State. "The industrialists are now worked about their existing investments", Mr Suri said, adding "all future investments have been put on half and the industries already in production have started cancellation of their orders as suddenly their goods being expensive as compared to the neighbouring states".

The delegation also informed the Minister about the non-cooperation of Central Excise Department in reimbursement of Central Excise refund to the industries which, they termed as another matter of concern. The Federation urged the Minister that the notification should be withdrawn to promote industrialization in Jammu and Kashmir.

Others in the delegation were Kuldeep Dogra, Rajesh Jain, Tejwant Singh Reen, Anil Gupta, Sanjay Mehra and Rakesh Bhat.

A delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry comprising of Rajendra Motial, secretary general, J K Mengi, Vikrant Kuthiala and Raju Choudhary also called on Union Minister of State for Finance and demanded withdrawal of notification at the earliest.

Mattoo inaugurates VSAT at Bhaderwah campus

Excelsior Correspondent

bhaderwah, Apr 7: Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu (JU), Prof. Amitabh Mattoo today inaugurated the VSAT facility at Bhaderwah campus of the university.

Prof. Mattoo is presently on a three-day visit to Bhaderwah to take stock of ongoing construction work of the university campus here. The work is expected to be completed in next couple of months.

Speaking at the occasion, the VC said, "Bhaderwah campus is all set to become the premier institute of learning in future. Even, the chief minister is monitoring the progress of the campus".

When established fully in its new complex at Sungli, it (campus) will benefit hundreds of students from rural and far flung areas and also attract students from neighbouring states and areas, he added.

He announced that 50 per cent seats in the campus will be reserved for the local students and hoped that they will find the facilities and academic courses, highly job oriented.

Earlier, he accompanied by DDC Doda, Khurshid Ahmed Butt and Revenue Secretary, Asgar Samoon took stock of the construction work at Sungli. A team of academicians and officials from JU including Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. B P S Sehgal, Rector Bhaderwah campus, Prof. I A Hamal, Controller Examination, Prof. Deshbandhu, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik, Dr. Renu Nanda and Dr. Daud Iqbal. Later, they also inspected Tulip garden in the campus.

Court frames charges against Branch Post-Master

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Special Judge Anticorruption Jammu Kartar Singh framed charges against Mohd Shafi Shaan, Branch Post-Master Gool, who allegedly misappropriated Rs 7,40,000.

According to the CBI case, accused while posted as Branch Post-Master, Post-Office Gool prepared a list of 581 receipts along with daily branch-office account of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2006 which was received by Sub-Post Office Ramban on October 5, 2006.

When the same was opened by the Postal Assistant, no cash was found in it as per TRC list of 581 receipts as the amount was not sent by the accused. He knowingly and fraudulently, misappropriated the said amount, therefore, caused wrongful loss to the Department and wrongful gain to himself to the tune of Rs 7,40,055.

After hearing the Special Public Prosecutor S K Bhat appearing for the CBI, Special Judge Anticorruption observed that the accused Mohd Shafi Shaan, son of Ghulam Qadir Shaan has committed offences under different sections of Prevention of Corruption Act. The Court ordered trial of the case.

Dairy Instructional Farm inaugurated
SKUAST VC for improving mixed farming
to enhance income

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Jammu, Prof. Nagendra Sharma today suggested improvement in mixed farming to enhance the income of farmers.

He was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of Dairy Instructional Farm at the main gate of Veterinary Complex at Faculty of Veterinary Sciences in R S Pura.

He highlighted the role of animal husbandry in supplementing the agriculture production and said, "Livestock sector makes substantial contribution to the house hold security and risk management by providing income, quality food and assets.

He emphasized upon the demand-led expansion of this sector for achieving the targeted growth rate in the forth coming five year plan of the country. He added that livestock were not merely the animals, but the part and parcel of our culture and there’s need to re-evaluate their role in Indian economics.

Prof. Sharma also gave a clarion call to the scientists, staff and students of agricultural university to re-double their efforts to make the State self-sustained in food production and work for socio-economic upliftment and prosperity of poor and marginal farmers.

The newly inaugurated Dairy Instructional Farm would be working as a dairy unit and also used as instructional farm for teaching the students. It also houses Veterinary Referral Hospital and Clinic available for the farmers round the clock throughout the year.

Earlier, the Director, Extension Education presented the welcome address, while Associate Dean, Vet Sciences and Animal Husbandry delivered vote of thanks.

Crime Branch presents charge-sheet against cheat

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 7: Crime Branch today presented charge-sheet against a cheater for duping unemployed youth of Rs 4 lakh.

An official spokesman said that Crime Branch received a communication from Under Secretary, Irrigation and Flood Control Department wherein it was alleged that an appointment order favouring Mohd Iqbal Parray, son of Ali Mohd of Brakpora, Nowgam purportedly issued by Commissioner Secretary, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Department bears fake signature of the issuing authority.

On the receipt of communication, a preliminary enquiry was initiated into the matter which resulted into registration of a formal case. During the course of investigation, the appointment order was seized and statements of witnesses were recorded.

It emerged during investigation that accused Mohd Yousaf Dar, son of Abdul Rahim of Anantnag in league with an unidentified person, who was introduced as Shah Sahib motivated Mohd Iqbal Parray and others to pay huge sum for their adjustment in Government service.

Subsequently, appointment orders were provided to them which turned out to be fake thereby subjecting them to wrongful loss.

On the basis of investigation conducted by Crime Branch and available evidence, prima-facie case of cheating was made out against the accused and charge-sheet of the case was produced before the court of law for judicial determination.

JKUTF condemns Govt for untimely salary disbursement

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7:The J&K United Teachers Federation (JKUTF) today condemned the State Government for untimely disbursing salaries to the teachers of Jammu region.

The federation had convened an emergency meeting of State Committee under the chairmanship of Satish Sharma, State president to discuss the situation arisen out of the untimely disbursement of salary to the teachers.

In the meeting, strong exception was taken to the fact that all pleas, protests and demonstrations of the federation impressing upon the authorities to ensure timely payment of salaries fell on the deaf ears.

On the occasion, a unanimous resolution was passed, wherein casual approach of authorities towards their genuine demand was condemned in strongest possible words.

In another resolution passed, the federation also expressed resentment over the inordinate delay in issuance of promotion list of droppies master grade despite DPC being conducted three months back. The meeting also took exception to non-formation of clear and transparent transfer policy.

Those who expressed their view included Prem Paul Singh, Mohd Iqbal, Raghunandan Sood, Khursheed Mir, Shanker Dass, Hafiz Khurwain, Mangal Singh, Surinder Bawa, B B Mishra, Parshotam Sharma, Sanjay Gupta, B D Bali, Narinder Sharma and Bashir Hussain.

Livelihood security must for bio-resource
conservation: VC BGSBU

Excelsior Correspondent

Rajouri, Apr 7: Livelihood security is a must for ensuring bio-resource conservation, said Masud A. Choudhary the founder Vice Chancellor of BGSBU in his presidential address during an impressive valedictory function of the second batch of three months training course in Mushroom Cultivation held at the Centre for Bio-diversity Studies of the BGSBU.

Centre for Bio-diversity Studies 'CBS' is dedicated to bio-diversity conservation through research, education and peoples participation. BGSBU has the distinction of being the only institution in J&K to have established such a Centre. CBS has been in such a short span of time able to get national level recognition because of several of its ongoing research, extension education and conservation initiatives.

The training programme formed part of a Department of Bio-technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India sponsored three years project that aims to empower the rural women by training them in low-cost technologies depending on locally available raw materials. The aim of the bio-resource based project is to improve financial status of rural women by training them in non-traditional activities such as mushroom cultivation, quail farming, cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, floriculture etc.

At the beginning Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed Zarri Scientist and Principal Investigator of this Project made a detailed presentation about the project and the achievements of mushroom training batch.

Nayeem asks TAAI to boost tourists traffic

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Secretary Tourism Nayeem Akhtar today convened meeting with the delegates of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) Northern Region to boost tourism as well as pilgrim traffic in the State

Director Tourism Ajay Khajuria, Secretary Northern Region A S Gujral, Chairman J&K Chapter Nasir Shah, Rajinder Kotwal Expert in Tourist Industry of the town, former DG Tourism Mohd. Ashraf, local tour and travel of Jammu based and other senior officers of tourism department were also present.

Interacting with delegates, Mr Akhtar said that with the arrival of railway service in J&K, pilgrim traffic will increase manifold and is likely to touch one crore in a year. He sought the suggestion from the members of the Association to provide more facilities to the visiting pilgrims. He desired to guide the pilgrims about weather of the State particularly of this area and about seeking the blessing of Mata Vaishno Deviji and other religious places of the State.

Chairman, TAAI of Northern Region briefed the meeting about various activities of the association for the promotion of pilgrim traffic and tourists in the country especially in J&K state. He informed the members regarding TAAI initiative for strategy survey being conducted with TATA consultancy service. The meeting also discussed some problems faced by the Tourist Industry in the country.

JAKLI’s 12 Bn celebrates diamond jubilee

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: In connection with the diamond Jubilee celebrations, 12th battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) organised function somewhere in the northern theatre today.

During the two day celebrations on April 7 and 8, the battalion will be organising various functions and programmes. Besides cultural and sports events, a Barakhana will also be organised by the unit.

The birth of the JAKLI regiment emerged with the historic struggle for the independence of India. This force was raised as group of volunteers who waged struggle against the Pakistani raiders on the appeal of Sheikh Mohd Abdullah during 1947. Out of the Jammu Border Defence Scouts, 12 J&K Militia was raised at Hamirpur Sidhar near Akhnoor on April 15 April 1948.

After the J&K Militia distinguished itself in the Indo-Pak war of 1971, due credit was accorded and it was brought at par with the Indian Army in December 1972. In 1976, the J&K Militia was redesignated as JAKLI.

The Unit was awarded unit citation by the Chief of Army Staff and earned a string of gallantry awards which included the Maha Vir Chakra to Capt Clifford Nongrum (Posth), Subedar Bahadur Singh ( Posth), L/Nk Ghulam Mohd Khan ( Posth) and Hav Satish Chander. The battalion was also bestowed upon the coveted ‘ Battle Honour-Batalik’ and ‘Theatre Honour-Kargil’ for capture of point 5203 and point 4812 in Operation Vijay. The unit has earned 141 Gallantry Awards till date.

Div Com inaugurates Hot Air Balloon Joyrides

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: As a part of Jammu Festival-2008, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu Sudhanshu Pandey today inaugurated Hot Air Balloon Joyrides at Jammu University ground here this evening. The event will close on April 19.

Director Tourism Ajay Khajuria, Joint Director Information S. K. Sharma, Joint Director Tourism S M Sahni and other senior officers of tourism department were present.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pandey said that to promote Dogra Art and Culture in the State, the tourism department has organised various events in Jammu region.

He appealed all sections of the society to visit in large numbers and take part in the events so that the younger generation becomes fully aware with the cultural heritage. He said that above and beyond reviving Dogra Art and Culture, the picturesque exquisiteness of the city of temples pinpointed from a mysterious identified spot, captivated the viewers during the philosopher walk also organised from Mahamaya vicinity yesterday.

It was stunningly to perceive the world’s most beautiful sun set sight from a meticulous spot at Mahamaya. Visitors had to grasp their breath on viewing the enigmatic scenic conjecture. They were apprised about the splendid mountain range extending right from Rajouri hills upto Dehradun.

The Department of Tourism also organised ‘A Nukkad Show’at Gole Market which was inaugurated by MLA Gandhi Nagar Raman Bhalla.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bhalla said that Nukkad Shows meant to explore new tourist destinations in the State and project Jammu region as an ultimate tourist destination with multiple tourist attractions. He informed the gathering ‘come and enjoy the Nukkad Show from today to April 14 in various places including Science College on April 08 at 8 pm., Raghunath Bazar on April 09 at 7 p.m., Bakshi Nagar (Resham Ghar Colony) on April 10 at 8 p.m., Rajinder Park at Canal Road on April 13 at 11 a.m. and Janipur on April 14.

With this sequence of Jammu Mela by and large not only picking up in Jammu city but adjoining districts as well.

Mangat for mass awareness about health, hygiene

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma has called for mass awareness among the people for educating them about better health care and hygienic conditions. He said that with a view to provide modern and better medical facilities to the people various Centrally sponsored schemes are under implementation in the State.

Addressing a seminar organized by health department at Lawrence Public School Sidhra to mark World Health Day, Health Minister asked the doctors to rededicate themselves for providing better medicare to the patients and make better utilization of the health infrastructure available in health institutions of the State.

"Serving the needy and treating the patients with a human approach is a worship", Mr. Sharma maintained and said that it is obligatory on one and all to maintain a cordial atmosphere in hospitals and make best use of health care facilities.

Mr. Sharma apprised the audience about the problems being faced due to climatic change and steps being taken by the Government to overcome these problems.

Mr. Sharma called for concerted social action against use of polythene, he said that climatic changes have made it necessary for a massive aforestation drive. He further said that if the industrial pollution was not nipped in the bud it may emerge as a big challenge to preserve the natural habitat.

He emphasized upon the people to stop use of polythene in schools, hospitals and public places for preserving environment.

Various students spoke on the topic "climate change: an issue for health sector" on the occasion. A group of students presented a skit highlighting the importance of taking precautions while eating at public places.

The Minister gave away prizes and mementos to the participants students who were adjudged 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively in the seminar.

Director Health Services Jammu Dr. Jasbir Singh was also awarded on his remarkable work done in health sector by the Minister.

10 road schemes worth Rs 12 cr
sanctioned for Kathua: Babu

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Minister of State for power Babu Singh has asked the concerned officers to work with missionary spirit and ensure timely completion of all the ongoing execution works under Central sponsored scheme/UIDSSMT in Kathua district.

The Minister was addressing a high level meeting of officers of various departments to review the execution of various works under UIDSSMT scheme here, today.

The meeting was informed that Rs 21 crore has been sanctioned under PHE sector by the Centre of which Rs 3.96 crore has been received till date. As per the scheme, 90 percent share will be of Government of India while 10 percent of the scheme money will be provided by State Government. Mr. Singh informed that 5 tube wells are being drilled in the district of which 2 tube wells have been completed and drilling work of other tube wells will be completed soon. besides to provide drinking water to far-flung areas of the district, six overhead tanks are being installed for which tendering has been done and work will start soon.

The meeting was informed that under ADRP scheme Centre has sanctioned Rs 12 crore for 10 road schemes at different place of district. He said that work on Rs 28 crore project of construction of 4-lane Hatli Morh-Kathua town road to Kalibari will start soon.

In the meeting, it was informed that State Government has formulated a plan of constructing two 471 two-room sets attached bathrooms and kitchens and community hall at Nagri (Kathua) involving Rs 7 crore under IAY scheme.

Earlier, a deputation of Electric Skilled Workers of Kathua and Jammu and Clerical staff of electricity department also called upon the Minister and apprised him of their problems including pension after the retirement and pay anomalies. He assured them that their genuine demands would be looked sympathetically.

Later, a meeting was held in the office chamber of the Minister with the industrialists for exemption of toll tax.

The Minister asked that the industrial units which has been not installed Pollution Control devices to get them installed within a one month's time.

The meeting was attended by the Commissioner/Secretary PDD, S.K.Naik, Secretary Housing Naseem Lanker, Additional Secretary PDD Shafat Noor, Chief Engineer M&RE D.S.Pawar, Director Local Bodies Jammu, G.A. Qureshi, SE Hydric Kathua O. P Dubey and SE R&B S.T Mustafa.

JURSEA flays authorities over hostel issue

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Jammu University Research Scholars Executive Association (JURSEA) today came down heavily upon the university authorities for their negligent approach towards the issues of hostel boarders.

Addressing a press conference in JURSEA office, Anuradha Goswami, chairperson, severely criticized the university authorities for willfully turning blind eye towards the genuine demands of students and scholars especially hostel boarders.

Ms Goswami apprised that several of female scholars/ students, belonging to far flung areas, had not been provided with hostel facility. "They are the most deserving ones, but university is least bothered about their plight", she added.

She, however, suggested accommodation to these scholars/ students in some hired building. She also impressed upon the authorities to separate the students and scholars in the female hostels, as in the case of boys.

She also demanded the inclusion of students’ representative in decision making body of university hostels.

Also addressing, Vikas Sharma, president, demanded the establishment of guidance bureau, as students/ scholars were deprived of academic guidance. He also took a dig at working of clerical cadre in the university and said they need to be trained for carrying out their job effectively.

Among others who also addressed at the occasion were Priyanka, Arusha and Sujata.

Gadda’s book on legendary artist Santosh hits stalls

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: G R Hassrat Gadda’s book on internationally acclaimed artist, Ghulam Rasool 'Santosh' was released at a simple but impressive function held here at Kala Kendra this evening.

The function was organised by J&K Academy of Art Culture and Languages in collaboration with Fankar Cultural Organization. The function was attended by a galaxy of artists, writers, dignitaries and friends of 'Santosh'. The book highlights the life and contribution of Mr Santosh.

The function was presided over by noted journalist, Satpal Sahni while Secretary Culture, R C Verma, Secretary Health and Medical Education, K B Jandial, noted journalist, Balraj Puri and Tralok Koul eminent artist were in the presidium.

Dr Ayaz Rasool Nazki a well known literary figure read a detailed paper on the book. He highly acclaimed Mr Gadda’s efforts in his paper whom he termed a multifaceted personality.

Dr Rafeeq Masoodi, Secretary Academy in his welcome address said that it is the endeavor of the Academy to organize this function to remember this legendary son of the soil who has contributed a lot to the field of art, culture and languages. He also congratulated Gadda for his land mark book on late Santosh.

He said this is the first book on Mr Santosh who besides an artist was a writer, novelist, poet, playright, musician and actor.

The other speakers also hailed the efforts of Mr Gadda for highlighting the achievements of Mr Santosh in the field of art, and culture.

Clerical cadre staff’s strike enters 12th day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: The strike launched by clerical cadre staff of all the departments of J&K Government has badly affected the normal functioning in the offices.

While the general public has been suffering for the last over 12 days due to employees’ agitation, the Government has yet to take necessary measures to resolve the issue. The employees went on the agitational path after they failed to get response from the Government following meeting with the Divisional Comm-issioner, Jammu last month.

The assurance came from the Government to settle the issue and the strike was suspended on March 12. It was assured that their issue will be settled by March 26. But as the employees felt ignored and duped, they went on strike again.

On the 12th consecutive day of the agitation, dharnas and protest demonstrations were held in various offices by the clerical cadre employees today. Several leaders of the Association of clerical cadre employees addressed gathering after visiting several offices and they strongly criticised the Government for causing delay in mitigating their demand of removing pay anomalies.

Some central body members of the Association led by Rehmat Ullah, convenor also visited Kishtwar and Ramban districts and addressed striking employees. They have resolved to continue their strike till their demand is redressed.

KHC flays PDP, NC leaders

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Kashmiri Hindu Conference (KHC) in a meeting here, today discussed the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir State.

The meeting was chaired by M L Thusoo. Commenting on the statement of Omar Abdullah, P L Koul Badgami said on one hand Mr Abdullah says that J&K is integral part of India and on the other hand he toes the secessionist line.

He said instead of making such statements the NC leader should bring Kahsmiris out of false illusion. He said to challenge the accession is to change the course of Pacific ocean.

Also criticizing the statement of Ms Mehbooba Mufti he said such statements are not in tune with freedom of speech in a civilized democracy and are humiliating for patriotic Indians. The organization has demanded action against both leaders.

BSKP to contest all seats in Assembly elections

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: The Bhartiya Sampuran Krantikari Party (BSKP) has decided to contest on all the seats of State in the coming Assembly elections.

This was stated by Choudhary Bashir Ahmed Jagal, State president of the party, in a Press Conference held here today. Mr Bashir has announced that his party will contest on all the 87 constituencies of the State in the next coming Assembly elections. He appealed the common masses to strengthen the party and help to fight against the social evils.

Mr Bashir further appealed the State Government to reinstate all the ousted employees from different departments instead of new recruitments. He also appealed the Government to amend "Roshni Act" as poor and down trodden masses from far flung areas of the State were unable to pay huge amounts for land.

Among others present in the conference included Abdul Aziz, Ali Mohd Mir, Ram Lal, Mohd Shafi Dar, Farooq Ahmed and Bilal Ahmed Mir.

Minister, others pay obeisance to Baba Bhagta

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Minister for Rural Development Mula Ram was among thousands of devotees who paid their obeisance at the ‘devsthan’ of Baba Bhagta at Keran village of Bhalwal block on the occasion of annual religious function.

A large number of devotees from various parts of the region thronged the place today. A grand community lunch (Bhandhara) was arranged at the devsthan of Baba Bhagta on his birth anniversary today.

Baba Bhagta is highly revered Saint of the area who with his spiritual powers endowed this Kandi tract with the gift of fresh water. His devotees have now spread over J&K, Himachal and Punjab as well. There is common belief that Baba, about two and half century ago took up the task of saving the people of this Kandi belt which was facing acute water crisis. Bawa started digging a pond about 3 kms away from the present Keran village and observed fast to please the God when after several days of labour he could not find any water.

It is said that on seeing the devotion of the Baba towards his people and the living beings, God appeared and fresh water started collecting in the pond. Since then thousands of devotees visit to the pond known as Baba ki Talai.

The minister while addressing the gathering called upon the people to follow the foot prints of the saints and seers who always held the emancipation of mankind as the highest virtue.

MP visits Cantonment, reviews local problems

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: Member Parliament (MP) from Jammu-Poonch constituency and senior Congress leader Madan Lal Sharma visited Jammu Cantonment and reviewed the problems being faced by the people of the area.

Accompanied by former MLA and Congress leader Balwan Singh and Members of Jammu Cantonment Board, the MP also addressed a public meeting at Chatur Singh Garden at Chatha, falling under Jammu Cantonment. Members of newly formed welfare association of the locality raised the problems being faced by them.

Members of Residents Welfare Association, Chatur Singh Garden while according welcome to the visiting MP demanded extension of pucca approach road to all the households in the locality, construction of sewerage drains, augmentation of waste disposal system and scavengers and upgradation of existing electricity supply by replacing old poles and lines.

The residents also demanded reopening of the centuries old traditional road to Pir Baba that was acquired by the Airport authorities for extension of runway. Now, the AAI have shelved its plan, the road be reopened for general public, they maintained.

The MP assured to take up the issues with concerned authorities. Prominent among those present included Capt Sardar Ali, Ch Swarn Singh, V K Koul, S K Aima, Capt Randhawa and Prof Mrs Mattoo.

3 held for smuggling willow clefts

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 7: A truck loaded with 4000 illegal willow clefts was seized by Samba police during the intervening night of April 6 and 7, whereas the truck driver besides other two occupants were also arrested on the spot.

According to police, last night a special naka party led by Incharge Police Post, Mansar, Samba intercepted a truck bearing registration number JK-04-6375, coming from Srinagar. During the checking it was discovered that the truck was carrying 4000 illegal willow clefts used for making Cricket bats.

The dirver of the truck, Wahid son of Mohammad Jabar and resident of Pulwama, Kashmir was arrested along with two occupants namely Iqbal son of Mohammad Iqbal and resident of Banihal, Doda besides Mohammad Akbar Wani son of Abdul Khaliq Wani and resident fo Awantipora, Pulwama.

A case has been registered in this regard and investigation has been going on.

Infiltration bid foiled, one militant killed

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 7: Troops today foiled an infiltration bid when they gunned down a militant in Kashmir valley where the security forces also arrested three militants and recovered arms and ammunition.

Official sources said troops guarding the border noticed a group of militants sneaking into this side from Pakistan occupied Kashmir in Keran sector. When challenged and asked to surrender they opened fire.

The fire was returned and in the ensuing gun battle one infiltrator was killed. The operation in the woods was going on when the reports last came in, they said.

Meanwhile, security forces arrested three militants and recovered a large quantity of arms and ammunition in the Kashmir valley overnight, official sources said.

They said two militants were arrested at Kupwara, while another was nabbed at Budgam.

A large cache of arms and ammunition, including one rocket launcher, three hand grenades and three AK magazines, were recovered.

A blast rocked Nadihal Bandipora in North Kashmir district of Baramulla today, official sources said.

They said militants detonated a powerful Improvise Explosive Device (IED) at Nadihal Bandipora Road targeting security forces.

However, there was no report of any loss of life or damage to property in the blast , sound of which was heard in the entire area.