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

The rally, which started from New Store of Consumer & Public Distribution (CAPD), Ware House here, culminated at Exhibition Ground, Dogra Chowk, Jammu. The workers of all CAPD Stores of Jammu province joined the rally.

The Union is demanding implementation of Court orders, bringing workers of CAPD at par with their FCI counterparts and implementation of FCI norms, implementation of Provident Fund Scheme, extension of minimum guarantee wages to those workers who have not been brought under MGW scheme, stopping of direct delivery system and release of pending arrears from 1997 onwards.

While addressing the rally, Bishan Dass said that the workers have become frustrated by the discriminatory attitude of the Government and criticized the authorities for their total failure in settling the genuine demands of the workers.

He said the workers are working with the Department for last 30 years and many of them have grown old and sick but no justice has been done to them by the Department. The workers can’t tolerate this any more , he added.

Others who addressed the rally included Nizam Din, vice president , Anil Sharma, general secretary, Dev Raj and Raj Kumar.

Defreeze 24 Assembly seats for PoK refugees
‘Provide Rs 50,000 crore package to refugees’

Excelsior Correspondent

SUNDERBANI, Apr 26: Strongly condemning the discriminatory attitude of the Government of India and applying two yardsticks for internally displaced Kashmiri Pandits and permanent refugees of Jammu region, Refugees Welfare & Educational Society (RWES) has demanded Rs 50,000 crore corpus fund for Jammu refugees for their settlement and socio- economic upliftment.

Strongly reacting to the announcement of additional Rs 1600 crores package to Kashmiri migrants by the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in the large rally of thousands of PoK and West Pakistan refugees during inauguration of bridge over Chenab at Akhnoor on Friday, Dr Ram Chander Sharma Chairman of the Society alleged that this announcement of the Cong led UPA Government smells Kashmir centric policy of India which has created confusion and present turmoil in the State.

Dr Sharma pointed out that non-redressal of genuine grievances of PoK refugees of 1947, West Pakistan refugees of 1947, refugees of 1965 and 1971 wars has further alienated the hapless people who have suffered grave human rights violations owing to their minority Hindu status in J&K. The Government wasted thousands of crores of rupees on internally displaced Kashmiris as relief and raising structures, colonies and now announced package of Rs 1600 crores while an assurance of only Rs 50 crores package for POK refugees who lost more than 50,000 of their kin in most barbaric genocide in the annals of human history. The plight of West Pakistan refugees who are mostly Dalits can be gauged from the fact that they have not citizenship rights in J&K. The refugees of 1965 and 1971 have been totally ignored.

Sanction Army Cantt for Kishtwar

Excelsior Correspondent

Kishtwar, Apr 26 : The people of Kishtwar today made a vociferous demand for establishment of an Army Cantonment in the area besides a special employment package for the unemployed youth of erstwhile Doda district.

Presenting a chartered of demands to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh during his public meeting after inaugurating 390 MW Dulhasti Power project, Minister of State for Education G. M Saroori, who is also MLA of Inderwal constituency in the district, sought absorption of NHPC employees working in Dulhasti project in newly proposed projects of Kishtwar. He also sought sanction for setting up Hydro projects at Pucckel Dool, Burser, Karthie, Keroo and Rattil.

The charter of demands also included construction of Chatroo Vailoo Tunnel via Singpura to connect District Kishtwar with Kashmir Valley which will provide a shortest connectivity and would work as an alternative National Highway Moreover, this tunnel will remain open through out the year.

Mixed reaction to PM’s package by KPs

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: There has been a mixed reaction to Prime Minister’s package for Kashmiri migrants.

While All India Kashmiri Samaj (AIKS) has termed the package as the beginning of an initiative, the All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) Delhi unit has not taken the Prime Minister’s announcement seriously.

The AIKS while hailing the fresh announcement on employment, has noted with concern that in the past also several such announcements were made by the Prime Minister but they were never implemented by State Government.

On the return of the Pandits to their homeland, AIKS reiterated that return of the migrants to their homes is a complex issue and many strands of KPs concern have to be addressed before a psychological environment can be built.

Rejecting the return package ASKPC Delhi Unit leaders Kundan Kashmiri and B L Thusoo said that the return package would have been taken seriously by the community if long pending demand of political package would have been simultaneously announced,which included carving out of homeland in the name of Kashap State.

Kashmiri Hindu Conference (KHC), leaders P L Koul Badgami and M L Thusoo while reacting to PM’s announcement said the package is totally silent about the security scenario for the displaced Pandits in the Valley.

ASKPC Youth Front, National Peace Movement and Migrant Welfare Committee in a meeting here, today under the leadership of S K Ambardar while hailing the Prime Minister’s announcement expressed the hope that Government will construct a major township in Kashmir Valley for the permanent settlement of displaced Pandits. It also termed the employment package a welcome step.

Tara Chand inaugurates upgraded high school

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Apr 26: Speaker Legislative Assembly Tara Chand today inaugurated a newly upgraded high school at village Kote Maira in Khour block.

With the inauguration of this school a long pending demand of locals has been fulfilled and children of scores of villages would be able to receive the education at their doorstep.

Addressing a large gathering of people after inaugurating the school, Mr. Tara Chand said that education is imperative for development of society and people should give proper education to their children so that they could shoulder the responsibilities and challenges faced by the nation. He said that Government has opened, upgraded hundreds of schools during the last five years and have made efforts to reach out every village to ensure education to children at their nearest possible distance.

The children of the school presented colorful cultural programme, which was appreciated by the audience.

Labana community demands economic, political package

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A delegation of All J&K Labana Sabha, Akhnoor led by its president Lakhbir Singh called on Prime Minister and demanded special economic and political package for the community in the State.

"Labana community in State is socially, economically and politically backward and has been deprived of their rights by the successive Governments since independence", the delegation said, adding "the community is completely neglected in all the fields of life with no share in State Legislature, State administration and judiciary".

The delegation urged the Prime Minister for the announcement of a special economic and political package for the Labana community in the State.

Grant of 27 per cent reservation to OBC and special employment drive for Labana OBC youth, constitution of separate Financial Corporation for Other Backward Classes communities for grant of financial assistance, grant of scholarships, arranging of educational tours, providing of hostel facilities to students belonging to OBC communities, relaxation in qualification to Labana candidates for recruitment in Army and allotment of funds for the development of historical Gurdwara Taposthan Sant Bawa Sunder Singh Ji, Alibagh on the bank of River Chenab in Akhnoor were the main demands highlighted by the delegation before the Prime Minister.

World Peace Mission Tourist arrives Udhampur

Excelsior Correspondent

UDHAMPUR, Apr 26 : World Peace Mission Tourist, B.V. Narayana hailing from Bangalore who started his mission on his motor bike from Bangalore during December 12, 2005, has arrived Udhampur after covering different States of the country and was received by the Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, O.P. Kalandria, here today.

Responding to the queries, Mr. Narayana divulged that his mission was to spread the message of peace, communal amity and brotherhood throughout the Globe and in this context he has earlier traveled 59 countries of the world during 1979-80 covering 89600 KM journey within 18 months and toured India in 1978 covering 7680 KM journey within 56 days with the sole aim of spreading the message of love and affection between diverse cultures of the country and whole world.

Again, he made up his mind during December, 2005 to visit different parts of the country by covering different districts of Jammu and Kashmir and foreign countries like Pakistan, Canada, Europe and U.S.A. with his team members.

When asked about the financial help, he told that different State governments, commercial organizations have extended him required facilities like meals, fuel and boarding facilities to ensure smooth conduct of his mission.

The Deputy Commissioner lauded the efforts of Mr. Narayana in making extensive touring of different countries with the object of forging unity in diversity and wished him all the success in his mission.

Jalal Abad, Sunjwan to have separate WSS: Dilawar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26 : Government has decided to formulate a separate drinking water supply scheme for Jalal Abad, Sunjwan to meet the increasing water demand of the people in this kandi belt.

This was announced by the Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mohammad Dilawar Mir while addressing a public gathering at Jalal Abad, Sunjwan here last evening.

Legislators, Ch. Nizam-ud-Din Khatana, Sofi Abdul Gaffor, Chief Engineer PHE Jammu, V. K. Goswami, S.Es concerned S. P. Kanotra and Ashwani Sharma, Executive Engineer PHE Gandhinagar Natha Ram and concerned engineers were also present on the occasion.

The Minister said that Dug-well at Totan-wali Khoi has been completed at a cost of Rs. 10 lakh and assured that the well would be made fully operationalized shortly. This well would also help to augment drinking water supply in the area. He directed the engineers to conduct a fresh survey of the area to assess the drinking water requirements of the people, keeping in view the fast population explosion in the wake of post-turmoil situation in the State. He said availability of funds will in no way be the obstacle in this regard.

The Minister directed the engineers to formulate both long-term and short-term action plan to redress the grievances of the residents of Sunjwan area with regard to provision of drinking water on war footing basis.

Mr. Mir also made a fervent appeal to the people to make judicious use of water resources adding that globing warming has posed a challenging threat of extinction to our water sources.

Meanwhile, the Minister informed that Water Filtration Plant at Bhoria has been completed at a cost of Rs. 2.15 crore. The plant will supplement water supply being provided through the Central Water Pumping Station, Bhoria to about 50,000 population of Sunjwan, Bhathandi, Lower Chowdi, Nawabad and Batal hemlets.

The Minister said that work on laying water distribution system in the area is in full swing and about 50 per cent area have been covered so far at a cost of Rs. 2 crore. The complete distribution system involves about Rs. 4 crore, the Minister added.

PM urged to confer ST status to Pahari speaking people

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A delegation of J&K Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum today called on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and urged him to confer ST status to the Pahari speaking people of the State.

Members of Parliament, Madan Lal Sharma and Ch Lal Singh, who were present in the meeting, too advocated the cause of Paharis which was incorporated in Common Minimum Programme of the Coalition Government.

In a memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister, the Forum mentioned that the commitment made by the State Government, successive Governors of the State and three Prime Ministers were required to be honoured and ST status be granted in the favour of Pahari speaking people of the State.

The deputation included former Member Parliament Mirza Abdul Rashid, MLAs Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Rashpal SIngh, MLC Mohd Rashid Qureshi and former Minister Sardar Rafiq Hussain Khan.

PM’s announcements pre-election gimmick: Chaman

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Terming the announcement of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to provide succor to the Kashmiri migrants, a little to Jammu refugees and sufferers of terror as pre-election gimmicks, the former Union minister and senior BJP leader Prof Chaman Lal Gupta said that for sorting out these humanitarian problems there is need of clarity of thinking and approach.

Commenting on the sops announced for return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants Prof Gupta questioned the Prime Minister that why the pre-requisite for their rehabilitation are not being fulfilled and why the steps are not being taken to protect their left out properties. Why government was avoiding to enact a Bill for the protection of shrines and properties of Kashmiri Hindus in J&K.

He alleged that Rs 2800 crore action plan formulated during NDA regime for rehabilitation of migrants was scuttled. He alleged that refugees from POK, West Pakistan and Chhamb have been ignored and not provided justice. He alleged that Congress, NC and PDP have communal mindset and these parties have proved anti-Jammu and always ignored this region in every respect.

GUF urges PM to solve problems of Gujjars, Bakerwals

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A deputation of Gujjar United Front (GUF) led by its secretary general Ch Shah Mohammad called on Prime Minister and apprised him about various demands of the Gujjars and other tribals which have been pending long for settlement.

They impressed upon the Prime Minister to take urgent measures to have these problems solved on priority basis.

Their demands included grant of political reservation, rehabilitation of the migratory population, inclusion of Gojri in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution, raising of battalions of Gujjar Scouts on the pattern of Ladakh Scouts, a separate Tribal Ministry in the State, opening of sub-office of National Commission for Scheduled Tribe, strengthening of mobile schools and mobile dispensaries in the State for the migratory population.

A memorandum for establishment of National Tribal University in Jammu and Kashmir was also presented to the Prime Minister and it was stated that the University will cater to the needs of the higher education of the tribal population and also benefit youth of the rural areas.

Om Mehta’s nephew extends support to G H Mir

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Siddharth Mehta, nephew of former Union MoS Home, Om Mehta today extended support to former minister and MLA Tangmarg, Ghulam Hassan Mir (PDP rebel) and resolved to strengthen his hands to give the State a credible, effective and democratically elected Government.

Siddharth belongs to a politically strong family of Kishtwar, as Mrs Krishna Mehta, sister of Om Mehta was nominated to Rajya Sabha by none other than late Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. She was also the founder of Gandhi Sewa Sadan.

After joining Mr Mir, Siddharth said, "A political vacuum in the state had left the people in lurch of credible politicians who could lead the masses belonging to all the three regions of the state", adding, "Unlike National Conference and PDP, Mir is not for promoting family rule in the State".

Welcoming Siddharth, Mr Mir said that Mehta belongs to a family which has a great legacy in the State.

Sanitation, Yoga awareness camp held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Under Community Development Programme, Sai Shyam College of Education in collaboration with Bhartiya Yog Sanstha today organized a day long sanitation and yoga camp at Lohri Chak in Ghou Manhasan.

Dr Suresh Gupta and Mr Jeevan Lal from Bhartiya Yog Sanstha were the resource persons at the camp. They demonstrated various yoga practices for healthy living and gave tips for leading a stress free life.

A large number of people from Lohri Chak and adjoining areas along with staff and students of the college took part in the camp. The NSS unit of the college demonstrated the use of Potassium Permanganate in the water tanks.

The programme was organized in continuation with last year’s survey conducted by the college wherein it was observed that most of the people of the said village were living in poor sanitation conditions.

Principal Dr Usha Tickoo expressed gratitude towards the Bhartiya Yog Sanstha and the people of Lohri Chak.

Institute of Company Secretaries
organises interactive session

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Regional Director of Northern Region, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, Dhan Raj today paid a visit to Jammu and interacted with the Company Secretaries and Chartered Accountants.

Mr Raj highlighted the distinct benefit of the e-filing facility introduced by the Ministry and prevailed upon the professionals to take maximum advantage of the same and to advise the companies to file their documents with the Registrar of Companies through this medium.

He emphasized the need of compliance to filing balance sheets and annual returns by the companies in the interest of the investors and the public at large. He said that this was necessary for preparing conducive atmosphere for investment in the region.

Mr O P Sharma, Registrar of Companies, J&K also addressed the gathering and answered the queries of the professionals. He also thanked Jammu Satellite Chapter of NIRC of Institute of Company Secretaries of India for organising the programme.

Chhamb displaced persons meet PM

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A delegation of Chhamb Displaced Persons of 1965 and 1971 (camp and non-camp) met the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh here today and submitted a memorandum.

Headed by S R Nagial, president of the Association, the refugees demanded grant of occupancy and tenancy rights over the Evacuee land which has been allotted to the displaced persons of 1965 and 1971, ownership rights on State land, grant of 10 % reservation quota to the wards of Chhamb displaced persons in government jobs and professional colleges, grant of cash compensation to the landless families of 1971 amounting to Rs 7 lakh minimum, restoration of 182 serving soldiers the ration cards and to give them all the benefits like other camps DPS of 1971, grant of cash compensation in lieu of land deficiency in their allotable units of land in favour of displaced persons of 1965 as per the latest market value and so on.

Anil Kumar Sarpanch, Darshan Singh, D R Chib, Kasturi Lal, Jagdev Singh, Prem Singh Chib , Krishan Lal and Maj B R Dogra were also in the delegation.

Flex manufacturing unit inaugurated
Need to revise traditional industries: Jora

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26 : Minister for Industries and Commerce Nawang Rigzin Jora today inaugurated a Flex Manufacturing Unit at Bari Brahmana.

He was accompanied by Secretary KVIB R. C. Sharma, Dy. CEO, KVIB, Jammu Division, District Officer Samba and other senior officers of the Board and Bank.

The unit set up with the project cost of Rs. 14.30 lakh has been sponsored by J&K Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) and financed by JK Bank Bari Brahmana. The KVIB has released an amount of Rs. 3.43 lakh as margin money (subsidy) in favour of the beneficiary. The unit has been sponsored after observing the viability on the basis of availability of raw material in the local area and consumption of the finished goods in the same area.

Later, the Minister also inaugurated cutting and tailoring centre for three months under Craft Training Scheme of KVIB in village Barhi of Smailpur. Twenty Five female trainees have been registered from the adjoining villages for imparting training and a stipend of Rs. 100 per month shall be given to each trainee. The Board has engaged a skilled instructor for the purpose.

The Minister said that it has become essential to generate sustainable employment especially for women folk within the villages in view of limited opportunities being available in the present time. He said that in these villages economic activities are very less as a result of which the rural women are neglected. He called upon them to come forward for availing the opportunities through KVIB. He impressed upon the need to revise traditional industries so that rural beneficiaries are able to supplement their income by such economic activities.

Secretary, KVIB informed the gathering that KVIB has taken initiatives to uplift the economic standard of the people living in the villages, which need skill upgradation of the unemployed artisans of that village. The Board after a comprehensive survey observed that the village Barhi have vast potential in craft skill and units established in these areas shall be viable. He hoped that every trainee shall learn this craft keenly so that it can be adopted as a profession for earning livelihood with dignity. He also assured of full help from the Govt in establishment of self employment ventures.

NPP: PM refuses to endorse Mufti’s Pak currency view

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: National Panthers Party leaders have claimed that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has refused to endorse Mufti Mohd Sayeed’s view on use of Pakistani currency in J&K State.

A 11-member delegation of the NPP led by Prof Bhim Singh which met the visiting Prime Minister here today, submitted a 25-points memorandum demanding immediate dissolution of J&K Assembly and holding of elections under the Governor’s rule with independent observers so that free and fair elections could be held.

Prof Bhim Singh also demanded criminal trial of PDP leaders for preaching secession and provoking people to create communal distrust. The memorandum also demanded general amnesty to the political prisoners and constitution of Delimitation Commission to end half a century old discrimination against the people of Jammu region.

The NPP leaders urged the Prime Minister to direct the state Chief Minister to constitute Delimitation Commission for the assembly and lok Sabha constituencies as committed in the CMP.

He also expressed anguish on behalf of the Jammu migrants/ refugees who have been ignored. Though NPP welcomed the package announced for the Kashmiri migrants but at the same time it regretted that Jammu migrants/ refugees who suffered a lot since long have been totally ignored.

Prof Singh reminded the prime Minister about the miserable plight of the refugees of 1947 who were given relief of Rs 980 per family whereas, families of the terrorist killed during militancy have been sanctioned Rs 5 lakh per family in PM’s package. It is unfortunate that Pakistani refugees who were born in J&K and allotted land by government are still fighting for permanent residence status, he maintained.

Those who accompanied Prof Singh included Harshdev Singh, Balwant Singh Mankotia, Faqir Nath, Yash Paul and others.

Five-day Ladakh Smonlam Chhenmo begins at Leh

Excelsior Correspondent

LEH, Apr 26: The five day Ladakh Smonlam Chhenmo celebrations began here today in which more than 1000 Lamas and Chomos are participating.

Over 300 Nuns of Chomo Gonpas like Rizing, Temisgam, Tia, Mahai and Wakha are also joining this Chhenmo.

The Smonlam Chhenmo this year is being held under the auspices of Sras Rimpochey, other Head Lamas attending the festival being Thiksay Rimpochey, Tokdan Rimpochey, Stakna Rimpochey and Tulku Nima Ringdol.

The grand prayers begin in the morning and last till late in the evening and the holy books like 16 volume Boom, 108 volume Kangur and 225 volume Stangur are read out and prayers are made for peace and prosperity for all. The festivities would conclude on April 30.

Extension lecture at MIER College

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: MIER College of Education today organized an extension lecture on "Role of Teachers in 21st Century" at the college.

Prof N R Sharma, Convener, Board of Studies of Teacher Education, JU was invited as the speaker for the lecture. He highlighted the relevance of topic and said that methods of teaching in India were obsolete and no new innovations and techniques were being used by the teachers.

He emphasized upon the need to make teachers and students computer literate and empower them to harness the power of internet to add knowledge that was beyond books.

He also highlighted the use of audio-visual aids and ICT technologies that teachers can use in educational set up effectively and efficiently.

Also speaking, Dr Renu Gupta emphasized upon the teachers to become tech savvy and use latest techniques to make teaching-learning process effective.

Earlier, Dr Adit Gupta presented the welcome address and introduced the speaker.

8 Naib Tehsildars promoted

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: The State Government today promoted eight Naib Tehsildars as Tehsildars in their own pay and grade in Revenue Department.

The Naib Tehsildars who have been promoted as Tehsildars included Rajiv Mangotra, Paramjeet Singh, Rajesh Kumar Basotra, Gopal Singh, Vijay Kumar, Rattan Lal Dogra, Kunal Sharma and Ram Lal Sharma.

Consequent upon these promotions the Government has also issued the transfer and adjustment orders in favour of Tehsildars.

Mr Surinder Kumar, Tehsildar Migrant Relief Organization has been transferred as Tehsildar (T) Bishnah while Charandeep Singh, Tehsildar Haveli has been posted as Tehsildar Migrant Relief Organization.

Rajiv Mangotra, Naib Tehsildar Maralian has been posted as Tehsildar Migrant Relief Organization, Jammu on promotion while Paramjeet Singh, N T Migrant Relief Organization has been posted as Tehsildar HQA to D C Rajouri.

Rajesh Kumar Basotra, Naib Tehsildar Billawar has been posted as as Tehsildar HQA to D C Udhampur on promotion while Gopal Singh,Naib Tehsildar Tikri has been posted as Tehsildar HQA to DC Kishtwar on promotion.

Vijay Kumar , Naib Tehsildar Jourian has been posted as Tehsildar (T), Haveli on promotion and Rattan Lal Dogra, Naib Tehsildar Housing Board, Jammu has been posted as Tehsildar (A R) Gool.

Kunal Sharma, Naib Tehsildar Marh has been posted as Tehsildar Migrant Relief Organization, Jammu on promotion and Ram Lal Sharma Naib Tehsildar Akhnoor has been posted as Tehsildar HQA to DC Poonch.

FoI seeks PM’s intervention in saving industries

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A delegation of industrialists under the banner of Federation of Industries (FoI) today called on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and apprised him about the ‘death warrant’ issued for the industries in the State by way of withdrawing Central Excise incentives.

The delegation strongly conveyed their feelings over the Central Government’s decision to dilute the industrial incentive package for J&K which has come as a rude shock to the industry.

The Prime Minister for informed that the package of incentives was extended by the Union Government to J&K from 2002 to 2012 but it was prematurely withdrawn much to the surprise of industrialists in the State.

"In the aftermath of notification, none from outside the State will come for investment in industries or other infrastructure sectors", the industrialists said and demanded that notification should be withdrawn in toto or some other option for central excise incentive should be made available to the militancy affected State.

The Prime Minister was informed that if the notification was not withdrawn more than 50,000 people will lose their jobs in these industries which will create serious financial difficulties for businesses as well as labour.

The delegation of FoI was comprised of its chief patron Kuldeep Dogra, chairman Annil Suri, co-chairmen Rajesh Jain and Romesh Badial, president Kathua Industrial Association Devinder Verma.

Educational, socio-economic scenario discussed
Prof Mattoo meets Prime Minister

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: The Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu (JU), Prof Amitabh Mattoo called on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh at Raj Bhawan, the last evening.

In the meeting, Prof Mattoo discussed the educational scenario in the country especially with reference to the State. The issue of cooperation in educational sector with the neighbouring countries was also discussed in the meeting.

Prof Mattoo briefed the Prime Minister about the plans to promote knowledge creation through higher education and its application in various sectors ranging from agriculture to tourism to usher the State into an era of peace and prosperity.

The VC also apprised him about his meeting with Afghan President Hamid Karzai in Kabul last week.

The Prime Minister assured that Centre will provide full support to the State Govt in its endeavor to increase the accessibility and quality of education to build the capabilities of the youth of the State to meet the challenges of 21st century.

He also expressed hope that through interventions in higher education and establishment of new institutions and universities, the State will emerge into knowledge economy.

Cleanse poll process of money, muscle & criminal politics

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: J&K branch of Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) organised a lecture on " Methodology and Predictions in Indian elections" by Dr O P Goyal, former Dean, Social Sciences, MD University, Rohtak, here this evening.

Dr Goyal underscored the need for electoral reforms and decriminalisation of politics for making the democratic system more meaningful for the masses.

He also said that role of money bag and vote bank politics should be curtailed. Dr Goyal pleaded for cleansing poll process of money, muscle and other ills with a strong political will, pressure of the civil socity and other agencies.

B R Sharma, J&K State Chief Electoral Officer, in his presidential remarks lauded Dr Goyal for his informative lecture with real life situations during the polls. He said pre-poll and exit poll surveys have uses and abuses and debate on these matters is still on in the country.

In her welcome address, Prof Kulwant Kaur, introduced the subject and said it is first lecture organised in the newly constructed complex of IIPA near Jammu University campus.

There was lively question-answer session at which participants put searching question to Dr Goyal on electoral system.

Dr S K Sharma of Law Department, JU, conducted the proceedings and also presented vote of thanks.

Dr Ashok Bhan, secretary, IIPA, Sudhanshu Pandey, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Devender Singh Rana, MLC, administrators, academicians, members of IIPA and prominent citizens attended the function.

PCC takes up PoK displaced people’s cause with PM

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Appreciating the relief package and various measures for the Kashmiri migrants, Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) today urged the Prime Minister to enhance the package for PoK displaced people from the announced amount of Central assistance of Rs 50 crore in view of the vast population of these people.

The demand was projected before the Prime Minister by a delegation of PCC headed by its president Prof Saif-ud-Din Soz which called on Dr Manmohan Singh this morning at Raj Bhawan.

The delegation also sought preferential admission to the children of PoK displaced people in professional courses and demanded raising of special battalions of para-military forces to absorb the unemployed youth of the State.

The demand of relief for the drought affected Kandi belt of Kathua district and some other parts of Jammu was also taken up with the Prime Minister. The delegation invited Dr Manmohan Singh to visit Poonch-Rajouri to take stock of the problems of twin border districts.

PCC chief also discussed the prevailing situation in the State and expressed satisfaction that over all political and security scenario has shown drastic improvement and rapid normalisation due to the efforts and policies of the Centre and State Governments.

The PCC leaders expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for liberal financial assistance to the State Government from time to time which has led to tremendous development in various sectors in all the three regions of the State.

The delegation comprised of Cabinet Ministers Mula Ram, Gulchain Singh Charak, senior vice-president of PCC Dharam Pal Sharma, MLAs G L Chalotra and Dr Manohar Lal, MLCs Parduman Singh, Amrit Malhotra, Arvinder Singh Micky and Farida Mir, G M Mir Poonchi, MLC R S Chib, Yash Pal Khajuria, Thakur Hari Singh, Vinod Sharma and Ravinder Sharma.

Give political package to J&K in shape of Autonomy: NC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: National Conference today emphasised the need of a political package in the shape of restoration of Autonomy in the State to have lasting peace and for making Assembly elections more credible.

The issue of Autonomy was raised by a delegation of National Conference during meeting with the Prime Minister. The delegation said that Government of India should ensure free and fair Assembly elections in the State which are due this year.

The delegation also demanded that the recommendations of the Working Groups be implemented in toto at an earliest which have emerged out of consensus arrived at by the different political parties and groups. While implementing recommendations it should not be projected as an agenda of a particular party, the delegation stressed.

The NC leaders urged the Prime Minister to give employment package to the youth as unemployment has created unrest and frustration. They further said that two per cent reservation should be given to J&K youth in the Central Government Departments, private and public sectors.

The delegation also demanded that the PoK refugees should be treated at par with Kashmiri migrants. They stressed upon the Prime Minister to get the agreement made between the Union Government and the then Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah implemented in letter and spirit for taking up eight power projects in the State, so that water resources could be exploited for improvement of the economy of the State. A package for the transport industry in the State was also demanded.

The NC leaders demanded that rehabilitation package be given to the border people right from Poonch to Hiranagar and the fencing at border should be done at zero level as at present there is a big chunk of agriculture land which is beyond the fencing and farmers are facing difficulties while going to their fields.

The delegation also stressed upon the Government of India to restore the industrial package which has recently been withdrawn in order to strengthen the economy of the State.

The delegation was led by provincial president Ajay Sadhotra and comprised of Rattan Lal Gupta, senior vice president, Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, vice president, Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, MLA, Mirza Abdul Rashid,ex-MP, Rachpal Singh, MLA, Abdul Gani Malik, MLA Tarlochan Singh Wazir, MLC, Brij Mohan Sharma, ex-MLC and M R Qureshi, MLC.

CCI urges PM to prevent large scale closure of industries

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) today urged the Prime Minister to take immediate steps to prevent large scale closure of industries due to the withdrawal of Central Excise incentives.

The grave issue which has been haunting the industries in the State was raised by a delegation of CCI led by its president Ram Sahai during meeting with the Prime Minister. The delegation also submitted a memorandum to Dr Manmohan Singh.

The delegation said that with magnanimity of the Central Government three States of North India—J&K, Himachal and Uttarakhand received industrial boost. But the latest notification withdrawing Central Excise incentives has virtually snatched away the benefit to the industries in this State, the delegation added.

"Due to this notification the already established industries will get closed as no fresh investment will come from outside", the delegation further said, adding "the closure of industrial units will lead to large scale unemployment".

Moreover, a large amount funded by Financial Institutions and the allied benefit to the economic growth will also be hampered very badly. "On one side the Central and State Governments have been very keen to revive the sick units but on the other hand the Government of

India is issuing notification withdrawing incentives which were responsible for the picking up of industrialization in the State", Mr Sahai said.

The notification of particular Khasra numbers has also been creating lot of problems in the way of smooth industrial growth as the officers sitting at the helm of affairs take different views creating hurdles and ambiguities, the Chamber said in the memorandum and urged the Prime Minister to bring the industrial fraternity out of the present crisis by way of withdrawing the notification.

Tax Bar telephone directory released

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: A telephone directory of Tax Bar Association members was released at a function held at Rail Head complex here today.

Chairman Sales Tax Tribunal, Vinod Gupta was the chief guest while Commissioner Commercial Taxes Bashir Ahmed, the guest of honour. A large number of members of the Tax Bar were present on the occasion.

President of the Tax Bar Association, Rattan Lal Gupta in his welcome address dwelt on the need of releasing the telephone directory which was conceived by the Bar Association.

Vinod Gupta while speaking on the occasion congratulated the Bar Association for coming out with a telephone directory. He also lauded the working of the Bar Association.

Bashir Ahmed listened to the problems of the Bar members and assured to resolve the same. He also lauded the efforts of the Bar Association for preparing telephone directory.

Prominent among others present on the occasion included, Riyaz Ahmed, Addl Commissioner (Adm), Dy Commissioner, Commercial Tax officers and office bearers of the Tax Bar Association.

Nirvan Divas of Peer Pandith Padshah celebrated

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: The birthday and Nirvana Divas of Shri Peer Pandith Padshah celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety at Ashram premises at Suraksha Vihar, Paloura today.

Hundreds of devotees thronged at Ashram early in the morning to paid their obeisance to the spiritual saint of Kashmir.

A havan was also performed on the occasion followed by religious discourses and recitation of bhajans.

Puran Ahuti was performed and thereafter prashad was served.

GSI building migrants’ plea to Relief authorities

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: All India Displaced Kashmiri Hindu Forum in an appeal to Relief Commissioner has urged him to get the 21 migrant families putting up in GSI building at Transport Nagar adjusted in newly constructed quarters at Buta Nagar instead of Nagrota as has been promised already.

Making this demand at a press conference, here, today, the chairman of the Forum, P L Dhar said despite the assurance,that these families will be adjusted at Buta Nagar, the Government shifted the camp inmates from Kathua and Battal Ballian camps to Jammu while ignoring those who were already putting up here for last 20 years.

Mr Dhar said by shifting the camp inmates of Transport Nagar to Nagrota these families will face many hardships and the education of their children will be badly affected.

Moreover, as the maximum family heads are the private employees working in factories and other business establishments at Bari Brahmana and other places in city so it will be difficult for them to attended their jobs after being shifted to Nagrota which is too away from Jammu.

Mr Dhar said keeping these problems of the camp inmates in view the Forum is hopeful that the Relief Commissioner will be kind enough in considering the problem on humanitarian basis.

He said that the camp inmates have also given the representation to the concerned Minister a number of times but to no avail.

The general secretary of the Forum, P L Bhat demanded bifurcation of two cases pending with Relief organization so that these families will get a succor.

However when contacted Relief Commissioner, Vinod Koul said that allotments have been made in favour of all 21 families but they are reluctant to be shifted to Nagrota.

12 bovine animals seized
Two arrested with sword for attacking civilians

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 26: Police today arrested two miscreants for attacking and injuring a civilian with a sword at Mansar. Injured has been identified as Lekh Raj son of Ramesh Chander of Mansar.

SSP Samba Rajinder Gupta said police have arrested both the accused from Mansar and RS Pura. They have been identified as Pankaj Kumar Sharma son of Prithpal Sharma and Ankush Kumar Sharma son of Yashpaul Sharma, both residents of Mansar.

Accused had intercepted the victim in a Maruti car No. 2379 JK01B and attacked him with a sword on his forehead and arms causing him grievous injuries. Both the accused have been arrested by a Mansar police party headed by Incharge police post Sanjeev Chib under the supervision of SSP Rajinder Gupta and SDPO Samba Ram Singh Charak.

Meanwhile, Vijaypur police have seized 12 bovine animals from two vehicles at Vijaypur on Jammu-Pathankote national. The bovine animals were being smuggled in vehicle No 9883 JK08A and an unregistered vehicle.

Five bovine animals were seized from one of the vehicle and seven from another.

Two bovine smugglers arrested by the police have been identified as Alam son of Monu Gujjar and Makhan Din son of Lal Hussain, both residents of Balasan-De-Khoi, Hiranagar.

The bovine animals were being smuggled to Punjab from Seora, Bishnah.

Arrests were made by a Vijaypur police station party headed by Inspector Arun Jamwal.