DGP inaugurates Shehjar Carnival
Theatre workshop therapeutic aid to
disturbed children: Khoda

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Help Foundation, a charitable organization conducted a two-day workshop "Shehjar Carnival"at Abhinav Theatre. Mesmerizing cultural programme in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and J&K Police was presented on the occasion.

Help Foundation came into being in 1997 for people of Jammu and Kashmir who are in distress especially widows, orphans, physically disabled and for rehabilitation of violence affected people. The main thrust of the organization is on education of children which besides curriculum provided co-curriculum activities like heritage, theatre, art and cultural education.

Director General of Police, Kuldeep Khoda, who was the chief guest at the workshop elaborated examples from period of infestation of militancy for two decades when large number of civilians were either killed or rendered homeless resulting in orphanage of children and widow women especially the young generation was highly affected from the strikes of militants.

He said the theatre provides therapeutic aid to children who are mentally retarded or disturbed to bring them in the main stream so that they do not disarray again. He said Help Foundation is performing their duties for betterment and rehabilitation of children taking care of their education and overall development by inculcating in them all the virtues to become good citizen for better future prospects.

Chairperson Nighat Shafi explained SHEHJAR is a Kashmiri word, meaning cool shade. The letters in this word represent approach towards mitigation of the problems of deprivation.

Help Foundation launched the first ever Children Theatre Festival -2007, which was held at Tagore Hall Srinagar from 8th November, 2007 to 16 November, 2007. Mrs. Nighat informed ‘‘in our State we have bright children with multi dimensional talent but they are unable to get opportunity to express. ’’

Among others Chairman Public Service Commission M. S. Pandit, Dr. H. L. Goswami, Aman Rathore, IGP K. Rajindara, Managing Director Women Development Corporation Mrs Soz, Joint Director Information S. K Sharma and prominent citizen were present on the occasion.

Talks with SRTC MD fail, workers’ strike continue

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Despite assurance by the State Transport authorities to release four months salary of the SRTC employees within two days, the workers of the Corporation continued their protest demonstration and strike even today.

An appeal by the Managing Director and General Manager of the SRTC to the striking employees and the brief discussion with the leaders of the employees union yield no results. The employees leaders have stressed for taking one time decision regarding the fate of SRTC and its workers. They said the Government should either close down the Corporation or give guarantee to provide them salary regularly every month and other benefits including COLA and deposit of Provident Fund of the workers on regular basis.

Today, all the workers under the leadership of Shakeel Ahmed Kuchey, Ashok Mehra, Pawan Sharma and Bali held massive demonstration against the Government here today and then took out a protest march from the old Transport Yard near Asia Crossing. After passing through Bikram Chowk, Tawi Bridge, Dogra Chowk, Exhibition Ground the march culminated at the same SRTC Yard.

The agitating employees are demanding release of their five months salary. Several leaders addressed the gathering and alleged that their families were facing starvation and the children could not deposit fee for the last four months. They are facing threat of being thrown out from the schools. They alleged that Government has turned a deaf ear towards the plight of the striking SRTC workers. The Government is needed to take a ‘final decision’ about the fate of SRTC and its workers if it is running into huge losses.

Similar protest demonstration was held at Srinagar SRTC Yard where workers and union leaders criticised the State Transport Minister and the present MD for their negligence to handle the affairs of the Corporation. They said the workers were ready for golden handshake if Government gives good offer. They claimed that workers were fed up and now want to get rid of ‘forced starvation’.

Develop Jammu as heritage centre: Kundal

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Chief Secretary B. R. Kundal today took an extensive tour of outskirts of the city and inspected various developmental works aimed at beautification of the city of temples.

Divisional Commissioner, Jammu Sudhanshu Panday, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu Hirdesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chairman Jammu Development Authority Ashok Parmar, Director Tourism, Director Floriculture, Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control and other senior officers accompanied the Chief Secretary.

Mr. Kundal inspected the protection work on the river front on the right bank of river Tawi being carried out at an estimated cost of Rs 6 crore. After the completion of this protection wall, 54 kanals of land adjoining River would be utilized for developing a park.

Giving directions to the concerned officers, Mr. Kundal asked them to speed up the pace of work and ensure completion within fixed time frame so that yatries coming to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Shri Amarnathji and other holy shrines would get added attraction to stay in the city of temples and heritage centre Jammu.

Another site visited by the Chief Secretary was Golf Course at Sidhra on left bank of River Tawi to be developed on 1384 kanals of land.

Director Tourism apprised the Chief secretary that in phase-I, 9 holes spreading over 350 kanals of area have been taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 1143 lakh. He further said presently work on shaping of 9 fairways, mounds and water bodies is in progress which will be followed by installation of sprinkler system and construction of green and trees after which plantation of grass will be taken up at the final stage. He said phase-I would be completed by September 2008.

Mr. B. R. Kundal said that with the completion of all these projects along the riverside of River Tawi the look of Jammu would provide a beautiful landscaped, recreational and amusement facilities not only to the Jammuities but also to the visitors.

Meanwhile, Mr Kundal exhorted upon the functionaries of LAWDA and Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to launch massive awareness drive involving people in general and students in particular about the importance of water bodies and palatable environment for the substance of life. "Clear and pollution free atmosphere is imperative to thrive tourism and boost up economy" he maintained.

He was speaking at a high level meeting organised to review the conservation and management of Dal Lake.

A detailed review was held regarding implementation of various directions of the High Court and functioning of Pollution Control Board.

Vice Chairman LAWDA apprised the meeting that work of laying sewer lines was in progress and once these are connected to the STPs at Brar-e-Nambal and Nallah Amir Khan, the flow of sewage into the lake would be arrested. He assured the Chief Secretary that STPs would be commissioned within a period of 18 months from the date of its award by March end.

Work on installation of intermediate pumping station at Saidakadal and Daulatabad will soon be taken up by UEED for which land has been made available by LAWDA. These will be completed within three months for which funds have been available, it was given out.

Chief Secretary directed LAWDA to speed up the work of laying secondary sewer lines and laterals so that target would be achieved by the end of financial year.

CB presents chargesheet in misappropriation case

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Case FIR Number 03/04 was registered in Crime Branch Kashmir against fraudulent drawl and subsequent misappropriation of insurance money at Mini Super Bazar, Kainero Chadoora (Budgam).

Investigation of the case revealed that a mini super bazar was set up at village Kainero Chadoora, where Ghulam Rasool Sheikh was working as salesman. The said Bazar was covered under insurance through National Insurance Company.

In the year 1995, said Bazar was gutted in fire and the concerned salesman fraudulently managed to settle insurance claim for an amount of Rs 1,66,702. A crossed cheque for this amount was issued by Insurance Company in the name of Mini Super Bazar, Kainero, which was fraudulently credited to the account of salesman by Manager, J&K Bank branch Yachgam, Zahoor Ahmed Mir. The amount in question was thereafter encashed by the salesman.

Charge sheet of the case has been presented against both the accused persons before the court of CJM Budgam today.

Similarly another case was presented before the court of CJM Pulwama today against one Aamina Jan, daughter of Hamid Magrey of Ranzipora, Pulwama, who had managed her selection as Anganwari worker on production of fake qualification certificate.

Prizes, certificates to best presentations
Science Congress concludes on high note

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: The three-day long scientific extravaganza "3rd J&K Science Congress" being held at University of Jammu (JU), concluded after a valedictory function organized at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium in JU, here today.

Prof. B P S Sehgal, Dean Academic Affairs was the chief guest while Pramod Jain, Commissioner/ Secretary Higher Education Department was the guest of honour on the occasion. Prof. N Anand of Madras University, Prof. Ramji Tiwary, Dean Sciences were also present.

In his address, the chief guest congratulated organizers for successfully holding this mega scientific exercise. He said the programme was extremely beneficial for students and scholars of the university and the region as well.

Prof. Sehgal emphasized upon the need to launch an awareness among the common masses about the new scientific discoveries, so that they could also take benefits out of those.

Also speaking, the guest of honor expressed satisfaction over the way in which the event was organized. He also expressed pleasure over knowing the fact that J&K was among the few states in country to organize such an event on periodical basis.

Earlier, Prof. V K Anand, organizing secretary presented the welcome address whereas, conveners of different faculties presented the conference report, as compiled by them. In the report, they apprised about the number of oral and poster presentations made during the entire technical sessions in their respective faculties.

Later, the prizes and certificates were awarded among those, who adjudged best for their presentations. In Agricultural Sciences, Dr. F M Mohiuddin got first prize for oral presentation while N Ahmed, Shivani Jamwal and Dr. Jaswinder Kour received certificates of appreciation. For poster presentation, Kanika got first prize while Jai Kapoor and Bandana received certificates of appreciation.

In Botany, Jyoti Parihar got first prize while S K Bhat, Indu Sharma and Geeta Sharma received certificates of appreciation for oral presentations. In poster presentations, first prize was given to Lakhwinder Singh. Anu Bidauni and Sanjay Kumar received certificates of appreciation.

In Zoology, first prize for oral presentation was given to Wahid while certificates was given to Yahya Bakhtiar. Manjot Singh received the first prize while Kapil Dev and Heena got certificates in poster presentation.

In Environment Sciences, M A Sheikh and Harpreet Kour got first prizes in oral and poster categories respectively. Ritu Jasrotia, Mausami Raina, Rohini Sharma and Asha Singh received certificates of appreciation.

In Biotechnology, Tabassum Kawoosa and Sana Navila got first prizes in oral and poster categories respectively while Khalid Jaffar, Shailly Sehgal, Priyanka Sharma S Saqib and Amit Kumar received certificates.

In Chemistry, Anil Kumar got first prize for oral presentation while Bhawana Gupta and Arti Soni received certificates. In Computer Sciences, Dr. Lalit Sen got first prize while Jasbir Singh got certificate in oral presentation.

In Home Sciences, Aroosa and Anoopa got first prizes in oral and poster presentation respectively while Fouzia and Deepti Sharma received certificates. In Physics, S K Wanchoo adjudged first whereas Praveen Lehna got certificate in oral presentation. In Engineering, Yathesth Anand adjudged first whereas Manoj Kumar was awarded certificate of appreciation for oral presentation.

The function concluded with the vote of thanks by Prof. Ramji Tiwari.

Deputations call on DyCM

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Feb 28: Several deputations here today called on Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig and projected demands pertaining to their areas and work.

All Jammu and Kashmir contractual teachers demanded regularization of their jobs whileas Rice Mill Owners of district Budgam and Baramulla demanded waiving off of their power tariff and the ITI crash course diploma holders demanded their absorption in Government Departments.

The deputation from Pakharpora (Budgam) demanded that Pakharpora the area be included in district Pulwama as it is only 14 kms away from district headquarters of Pulwama. They informed the Deputy Chief Minister that they have also submitted a memorandum to Bloeria Commission in this regard. All Jammu and Kashmir contractual junior engineers demanded regularization and their absorption in various Departments.

The Lamberdar Association demanded waiving off of the backlog land revenue, which has been abolished by Government in 2003.

All Jammu and Kashmir B.Sc Forestry gratitude and Direct Deputed Rangers (DDR) demanded absorption under Rehbar-e-Janglat.

The residents of Kabah Marg of district Anantnag demanded beautification and renovation of the local Ziarat.

The Deputy Chief Minister while interacting with the deputationists assured them that their genuine demands would be looked into and redressed accordingly.

Road blocked for 2 hrs, DC assures probe
Gorkha Nagar residents protest driver’s murder

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Residents from Gorkha Nagar and Bahu Fort area held massive demonstration and staged dharna on the road disrupting traffic for over two hours in protest against the alleged murder of a driver of the area near Anantnag in Srinagar and conducting cremation of the body by Kashmir police.

The residents alleged that Anantnag police performed cremation of the body without bothering to establish identity of the deceased driver hailing from Jammu and cremated without post-mortem. The driver Om Bahadur, resident of Gorakh Nagar, Jammu had been working as driver with a travel agency. He went to Srinagar carrying passengers in his Tata Indica vehicle five days back. As there there was no contact, the family members worried.

After searching for him, they came to know last evening that Om Bahadur’s body was found lying on Jammu-Srinagar highway near Anantnag and the vehicle was found abandoned about 8 kms ahead of the spot. The police shifted to the body to hospital and later disposed it off declaring it as unclaimed.

The locals residents of Gorakh Nagar today came out on Bahu Fort Road held demonstration and blocked road for about two hours. MLA Gandhinagar and senior Congress leader Raman Bhalla also joined protest with them. The locals demanded Magisterial inquiry into the murder of the driver, action against Anantnag police officials and the arrest of the accused.

Later, DC and SSP also visited the spot. Mr Bhalla took up the issue with them and sought an impartial inquiry into the incident. Later, with the assurance from the DC and SSP Jammu dharna was lifted.

JDA, JMC functioning reviewed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Ch. Gharu Ram has asked the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to be more resourceful and self-reliant by mobilizing revenue generation by way of collection of taxes, rent, parking fees, octroi and creation of remunerative assets in urban areas.

He said that the trend of encroachments and illegal constructions within urban areas be strictly discouraged, adding that ward officers will have to be more conscious and responsive to implement a systematic and prescribed building permission policy.

The Minister was presiding a meeting of JDA officers to review the physical and financial progress made during 2007-08.

In the meeting, Ch.Gharu Ram discussed with officers of JDA and JMC various issues including number of authorized and unauthorized besides criteria for regularization of colonies, funds generated from regular colonies, annual quantum of own resources, construction of new colonies, outstanding of rent of JDA.

The Minister stressed the concerned for proper demarcation and protection of State land within municipal limits and make project proposals to raise commercial assets. He also called for area specific survey to ascertain the potential of such land for making them commercially viable and income recurring.

Vice-Chairman JDA Ashok Parmar, Commissioner JMC Vinod Sharma, Director Land Management A. A. Choudhary, Superintending Engineer JDA O K Chadgal and various officers of JDA were attended the meeting.

Thousands participate in Zuljinah procession

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: The Zuljinah procession on the occasion of Chehlum (40th day after Ashura) was taken out by members of Shia Muslims, here today.

Thousands of Shia Muslims drawn from different parts of Jammu Division including Winter Capital, Chander Kote, Ramban, Poonch, Mandi, Surankote, Gursai Mendar and Ladakh region participated in the procession.

The processionists recited Mersia in praise of Imam-e-Hussian who made supreme sacrifices in the battle field of Karbala while fighting the Yazid for the rights of oppressed and suppressed and to uphold the truth and humanity.

The procession started from Imam Bara, Peer Mitha and after passing through Lakhdata Bazar, Kanak Mandi, Rajinder Bazar, Shaheedi Chowk and Wazarat road, it culminated at Karbala complex.

Besides the unions of Leh and Kargil students, the members of Anjuman-e-Imamia, Anjuman-e-Hyderia, New Plots and Shia Federation also participated in the procession.

At Karbala complex the Shia scholars highlighted the significance of Chehlum and threw light on the life of Imam-e-Hussian and episode of Karbala.

Moulana Mufazal Hussian from UP in his lecture recalled the history of Karbala.

As a goodwill gesture, the people belonging to Hindu and Muslim communities had established Chabils at various places . The elaborate arrangements were also made by the authorities for the processionists. Mr Ashaq Hussian, president, Shia Federation Jammu in his address complimented the administration and people of other communities for rendering their support and cooperation in taking out the procession.

Speaker reviews rehabilitation of border migrants

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Speaker Legislative Assembly Tara Chand has urged the Government to implement the Khour border migrants’ rehabilitation programme expeditiously. He issued specific instructions to the concerned officers for early demarcation of plots for construction of alternate accommodation by the affected families in the identified colony at Gurah Jagir in Akhnoor.

The Speaker was reviewing the progress of PM’s rehabilitation package for the Khour border migrants at a high-level meeting held here today under his chairmanship.

Expressing regrets over the delay in allotment of plots to the migrants, Speaker directed the officers to clear all bottlenecks and complete the process within a period of one month. He also stressed for developing the required infrastructure in the proposed colony on modern lines before the allotment, the Speaker maintained.

The meeting was told that 90 per cent package has been implemented and efforts are on to cover the remaining part of the scheme. It was further informed to the meeting that due to stay on a portion of the proposed colony by some locals, the process of demarcation of plots got delayed. The authorities are making out all efforts to vacate the stay at the earliest and it is hoped that all bottlenecks would be cleared very soon and allotment process would be taken up accordingly. The development of peripheral infrastructure is in progress and likely to be completed by the end of March, 2008, the Committee was apprised.

Those present in the meeting included Financial Commiss-ioner Home, S.S.Kapoor, Principal Secretary PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, A.K.Angurana, Advocate Gene-ral J&K A.H. Naik, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Sudha-nshu Pandey, Deputy Commiss-ioner Jammu, H. K. Singh, Additional DDC Jammu I.A. Zargar, Superintending Engi-neer Hydraulic Jammu Ashwani Sharma and others.

Work remains paralysed in Govt offices
as clerks strike enters 4th day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: The work in various State Government offices remained paralysed today as the pen down strike of clerical staff entered the fourth day.

The call for the strike has been given by All Departments Clerical Association in support of their long pending demands.

The employees staged demonstrations, rallies at their respective district headquarters in protest what they termed the double standards and pick and choose policy of the coalition Government which has created anomalies in the grades of clerical cadre.

Addressing the activists of the Association and its Central Executive members, Ram Kumar Sharma co-ordinator said that "now on never" battle will continue till the demands of the clerical cadre are accepted by the Government.

Meanwhile a team of the representatives of the Association, including Rehmat Ullah Malik, convenor, Ravi Singh Bahu, R P Sharma, Bashir Malik, Mrs Lalita Bali, Anil Mehta, M P Singh, Sukhbir Singh, Ravi Razdhan, Ravi Kumar, Ajay Khajuria and others visited various Government offices, departments and addressed the striking employees. They said that no compromise will be made till the demands are conceded in letter and spirit.

According to the Association handout complete strike was also observed by clerical staff in Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region. It said the representatives of the Association visited various offices and departments and addressed the corner meeting of the employees. They condemned the callous attitude of the Government towards the demands of the clerical staff.

The handout said that a delegation of the Association led by Ram Kumar Sharma also called on Divisional Commissioner, Jammu who had invited the Association office bearers for talks. The delegation informed the Divisional Commissioner that the Government has ignored the clerical staff and they were facing the discrimination for last three decades in respect of grade promotions, work load and status. They said after the revision of 3rd, 4th and 5th Pay Commissions the grades of the clerical cadre have been lowered by the successive Governments.

The handout, while terming the dialogue with Divisional Commissioner as inconclusive said that the ongoing strike will continue and dialogue process will also go side by side till the settlement of demands.

The Association alleged that Government has failed to grant the grade of 4000-6000 to junior assistants, 4500-7000 to senior assistants, 5500 to 9000 to head assistants, junior stenographers and statistical assistants. It also alleged that the Government has failed to exempt them from secretariat training examination.

Meanwhile a massive demonstration was held in the Directorate of Health Services here, today by the ministerial employees working in Health and Family Welfare Department in Jammu Division. The protesting employees were demanding removal of anomalies in the grades of junior, senior and head assistants.

The employees from block headquarters, hospitals and other offices of the Health and Family Welfare Department joined the dharna which among others was addressed by Sushil Sudan, president JKMEF, Vinod Sharma its secretary general, Karnail Singh, Deepak Khajuria, C L Koul and Darshan Khajuria.

Yatri Niwas to be completed by middle of June
Base Camp to Amarnath pilgrims will be
shifted to Bhagwati Nagar this year

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: The Rs 4.91 crore Yatri Niwas for Amarnath pilgrims under construction at the banks of River Tawi in Bhagwati Nagar near, here will be completed by ending June, this year.

With the completion of this Project, the Base camp of holy Amarnath pilgrims will be shifted to Bhagwati Nagar from Moulana Azad Stadium during this year’s yatra season . This was stated by Director of Tourism, Ajay Khajuria while talking to Excelsior.

"The work on the project is going at a full swing and our endeavor is to complete it before the start of holy Amarnath Yatra this year," he added.

The main building in the Yatri Niwas complex will be three storeyed and it has been designed keeping in view the specific needs and requirements of the yatris, Mr Khajuria informed.

The work on the project was started in the month of January this year and till date 20 percent of the construction has been completed.

The Yatri Niwas will have five dormitory on each floor, 56 toilets and 24 bath rooms on each floor.

It will have a separate administrative block comprising of Tourism Information Centre, ATM facilities, SRTC Booking Office, Police Post, Fair Price Shop, STD/PCO, dispensary and two langers (Kitchen) on each block for the convenience of the yatris.

Besides the project complex will have blocks for Safai Karamcharis, security rooms and parking for light vehicles.

The project which was orginaly sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India at Bachan Depot, near here but the land identified at that site was falling within the area earmarked as game reserve so the the project was later shifted to Bhagwati Nagar, Mr Khajuria disclosed. In the process of identification of new land the construction of the project was delayed, he added.

The Yatri Bhawan will have a facility of 850 beds but during the rush of pilgrims it can accommodate 1500 yatris also. Besides the Swami Amarnath pilgrims, the yatris visiting holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi can also be accommodated in it after the rush of Amarnath yatra is over.

Meanwhile, the work on construction of two yatri Bhawans for Budha Amarnath and Nangali Sahib pilgrims is on full swing in Poonch. While the construction of Yatri Niwas at Sain Miran Sahib, Poonch will be taken up in hand soon, informed, Mr Khajuria.

He said all the three projects will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 53 lakh each. While the construction work on Nangali Sahib will be completed within one month the work of Yatri Niwas of Budha Amarnath will be completed within three months, he added.

USA damaging peace, progress in Asia: Bhim

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Feb 28: National Panthers Party chairman Prof Bhim Singh has alleged that real enemy behind the damage caused to peace and progress in the Asian countries and this region was the United States of America.

Addressing rallies at Charar-e-Sharief, Pakharpura, Chadura and Khan Sahib in Kashmir as a part of Silver Jubilee celebration of the Party Prof Singh alleged that real enemy of peace, progress and sovereignty of the third world nation was Anglo-American bloc who has demolished thousands of years old civilization in Iraq, established Israel, demolished afghanistan and now interfering in Pakistan and Iran.

He said neither India, Pakistan nor the Army was the enemy of the people of J&K. The Anglo-American bloc intends to establish nuclear station in Kashmir and Gilgit to watch activities of China.

The NPP leader further alleged that NC and PDP were exploiting the people in Kashmir while it is being done in Jammu region by BJP and the Congress. The Coalition has been exposed for its corrupt and criminal rule. He appealed the youth to join Panthers Party to strengthen battle against corruption, terrorism, criminalisation and communalism so that peace shall return with dignity and the corrupt rulers disappear for ever.

Prof Singh warned the Hurriyat leaders in case they fail to read the writing on the walls, they shall become irrelevant tomorrow after elections. A large number of people received the Kafila at several places and assured support to Bhim Singh. The NPP leaders also visited the shrine of Baba Sheikh Nooruddin Wali offered prayer.

27 multipurpose water storage dams
coming up in Hira Nagar, Samba

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: The Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mohammad Dilawar Mir today inspected multipurpose mini water storage dam at Hira Nagar being constructed across Yakh Nallah at a cost of Rs. 5 crore.

The Dam shall be commissioned by the end of next month with twin prime objectives to recharge ground tube wells and to provide irrigation facility to about 600 acres in its catchment area. The Irrigation and Flood Control department, Jammu has undertaken an ambitious project to construct 27 such mini water storage dams over Yakh Nallah, Basantar and Devak rivers in Hira Nagar and Samba at a cumulative cost of Rs. 132 crore. This will be first of its kind 100% centrally funded project under NABARD.

The Minister was accompanied by the Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control, Jammu V. K. Abrol, concerned Superintending Engineers and prominent industrialists of the State.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that five such mini water storage dams costing about Rs.50 crore would be completed during the current year. He said construction of these mini check dams would not only provide irrigation facilities in respective areas but would give an aesthetic and cooling effect on the hot climatic conditions in the area. He asked the engineers to construct pathways around these up coming water bodies with provision of flood lights so that local people could visit these water bodies to entertain and refresh themselves. He said that these water bodies would be developed as tourist and picnic spots also in due course of time thereby boosting pisci-culture and floriculture activities also in these areas.

While appreciating the Irrigation and Flood Control department for conceiving and undertaking this ambitious multipurpose water harvesting project, the Minister asked the engineers to dove-tail the project with public health engineering schemes so that the water of these storage dams could also be utilized for drinking water purposes also after exploring possibilities of constructing mini filtration plants there.

Bhalla inaugurates up-graded school

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: MLA Gandhi Nagar Constituency Raman Bhalla inaugurated up-graded Middle School Old Satwari to High School here today. The School was Middle School since 1962 and now after gap of 46 years, the school has been upgraded to High School thus providing benefit to the adjoining areas of Satwari locality.

While speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bhalla asserted that education sector being one of the vital sector requires utmost priority on every level. He said "it is the endeavor of present regime to not only provide adequate schools, colleges throughout the State but also to impart quality education to each student".

On the occasion, the students presented a scintillating cultural programme.

Appreciating the performance of students, Mr Bhalla said that such cultural activities boost the moral of the students and give them the platform to develop their skill. Mr. Bhalla assured the people of the area for early resolution of their demands which includes construction of double storey building, laboratory hall, examination hall, enhance strength of the staff of the school, widening and construction of the road, construction of tube-wells, hand-pumps in the area, regular supply of water, provide better drainage system and regular supply of electricity.

Congress will contest elections on performance: Vakil

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Congress will contest coming Assembly elections on the basis of its performance on political, economic and development fronts. "No decision has been taken on forging pre-poll alliance with any political party yet".

This was stated by Minister for Social Welfare Abdul Gani Vakil while addressing a public meeting at Tilgam in Pattan today.

"Pro-people historical decisions taken by Congress led Government has surpassed all records and performances of all earlier regimes giving Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad a prominent place in the annals of political history of the State", Vakil said, feeling optimistic about the poll verdict in the elections later this year.

The Minister said two round table conferences focusing on intra state Confidence Building Measures were held during his tenure, adding that had Pakistan not witnessed internal problems, substantial headway might had been achieved in the dialogue process with neighbouring country as well.

Exhorting officers of his department to gear up for transparent selection of over 13,000 Anganwari workers and helpers within two months, the Minister said that 6000 more centres would be sanctioned by Centre under phase-III envisaging employment for more 12000 unemployed women of the State.

Mr.Vakil also distributed cheques worth Rs. 17 lakh among 200 poor and destitute beneficiaries of Pattan Tehsil.

Earlier, the Minister released Rs 10 crore to clear pending widow and old age pension cases of Kashmir division. These cases were pending for a long time due to paucity of funds.

Safewell launches new range of electronic safes

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Safewell, world’s largest manufacturer of electronic safe, launched its new range of products in a function organized at Press Club, here today.

Speaking on the launching ceremony, Ajay Singh, director Vishal Video and Appliances Pvt Ltd, briefed about the features of the products. Safewell was brought in India by Vishal Video and Appliances, a certified marketing company.

Singh said that safes being launched by the company come with the highest standard of technology and quality and available in over 100 countries worldwide.

He also informed that Jay Kay Planet has been appointed as the sole distributor in the State for Safewell products.

These safes can be easily installed in wooden wardrobe, office table, bookshelf, cupboard or any other place, as per the convenience. Also present on the occasion included Harbinder Singh, proprietor Jay Kay Planet and Jaspal Singh, area manager.

NIIT organizes seminar on Networking

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: NIIT Jammu organised a seminar on Networking and infrastructure Management in association with Comptia (The Computing Technology Industry Association) representing more than 25,000 Corporate members across the 102 countries.

Mr Pradipto Chakrabarty, Business Development Manager Government Polytechnic in his address appreciated the role being played by NIIT as a pioneer in the filed of computer education during over last 17 years since it launched Center in Jammu.

Over 250 students belonging to Government and private polytechnics, Government colleges and NIIT students besides various academicians from different fields participated in the seminar.

NIIT Jammu was recently licensed for running short programmes in hardware and net working in association with Comptia and it has already imparted training to nearly 100 NIITians.

Looking at the response and rising demands for more detailed programmes, it is upgrading its programmes shortly under NIIT Global Net + for IT infrastructure management fields which provides a huge career opportunity for those seeking to build careers in IT industry on the networking side NIIT handout issued here, today said.

With the launch of the programme the NIIT Jammu will be in a position to address the manpower crisis in this domain, besides helping career aspirants and working professionals in the State, looking at building and enhancing career prospects in infrastructure management technology.

Camp for adolescent girls held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: As a part of Centrally sponsored scheme, 'Kishori Shakti Yojana', a six days long training cum awareness camp for adolescent girls was organized at Mehra Mandlik in Marh block. During this camp as many as 30 girls participated and learned about several health related issues.

As per an official press handout, similar camps were also organized at village Bhadrore, Marh and Chaffera Chack. Such camps aim at educating adolscent girls about the importance of timely immunization of children, regular health check ups, growth monitoring and social evils in society etc.

Meanwhile Child Development Project Officer, ICDS Marh,, Kanchan Bala has impressed upon the trainees not to hanker after Government jobs instead establish their own income generating units to earn dignified livelihood besides providing employment to others.

Sleepwell products now with ‘Ultra-Fresh’ treatment

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: All the Sleepwell home comfort products are now available in market after being treated with "Ultra-Fresh" technology to ensure healthiest and refreshing use.

Ultra Fresh successfully prevents the breeding of dust mites, bacteria, fungi and other micro-organisms. The technology licensed from Thompson Rese-arch Associates Inc., Canada, is available in India exclusively with Sleepwell, a company release said.

It prevents asthma that is usually caused by the breeding and growth of dust mites. It doesn’t allow fungi to breed thus keeps mattresses, pillows and cushions smelling fresh and clean always. In addition, it also ensures complete hygiene by preventing the breeding and build-up of harmful bacteria, release added.

However, Anupam Shrivastava of Sleepwell said , " With introduction of Ultrafresh, we take yet another step towards bringing our brand closer to the customers and we would like to spread awareness of its benefits among them".

Chenab College, MIET celebrate ‘Science Day’

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Chenab College of Education and Model Institute of Engineering & Technology (MIET) celebrated the occasion of "Science Day" in their respective campuses.

In Chenab College of Education, an impressive function was organized. R S Chib, chairman of the college presided over the function. A skit was organized to remove the superstitions from the minds of people. During the programme, teachers and the students also spoke about the importance of Science in the modern time.

Meanwhile, several events were organized in MIET, Kot Bhalwal to mark the day. The events included collage-making, technical paper presentations, song and skit presentations.

Tributes were paid to Prof. C V Raman, in whose memory the day is being celebrated. Dr. Arun K Gupta, director MIER Group of Institutions was the chief guest while Prof R K Abrol, Principal presided over.

Minerva School celebrates Annual Day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Minerva School of Learning Udhaywala, Bohri celebrated its maiden Annual Day function, here today.

Swami Kumar Ji, a religious scholar was the chief guest on the occasion. He highlighted the role of Indian values and tradition in shaping the lives. Also present were P K Joseph Dhar and Ashok Singh Manhas, corporator.

Earlier, the programme began with Saraswati Vandana and vedic hymns. A cultural show comprising of folk dances, skits and variety of other programmes were also held.

Sanjay Tickoo, Principal presented the welcome address while Dr. Asha Dhar, Principal Coventary Scholars, sister concern of the school, read the annual report.

Later, programme concluded with vote of thanks by Man Mohan Bhat, director of the school.

SKUAST-J students elect body for Agri Lions Club

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology (SKUAST) Jammu students today held elections for Agri Lions Club with Imran Rashid Kataria as chairman and Liaquat Ali as president.

Other members of the club included Vishal as vice president, Shahnwaz as general secretary, Mamta Gupta as secretary and Ekta Joshi as cashier.

The club also formulated various other committees. Sports Commitee members included Mudasir Rashid Magrey, Pawan Katara, Devaj Gangal, Toldan, Gourav, Shahzada, Jatender Pal Singh and Jarvis.

The members of Cultural Committee included Abid Ali Lone, Satish, Skalzang, Jebi Sooden, Danish and Manpreet Kour. Fine Arts Committee members were Mukesh Thapa, Ajaz Ahmed, Shamim Iqbal, Lakshmi, Jay Parkash, Alka Goodi and Alok Kumar.

Literature Commitee members were Shivani, Manmohan Singh, Aradhana Bali, Rajiv Vig, Sonia and Rucku Gupta while Info-communication committee members included Sonam, Tsewang, Arif Hussain, Chandan, Malvika Sharma, Rafiq Mohd and Sohika Rani.

Disciplinary Committee members were Manoj Kumar, Devaj Gangal, Alok Kumar Pradhan, Rafid Mohammed, Shabir Hussain and Des Raj Meena.

Lok Adalat held at Kathua

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Feb 28: A Lok Adalat was organized today in District Court Complex Kathua in which cases of different natures were settled amicably. The representatives of National Insurance Corporation Ltd; advocates and litigants attended the Lok Adalat.

As per the press note, two benches of presiding officers were constituted to dispose off the cases. The first bench was headed by District and Session Judge, Kathua, SK Jamwal, who is also the chairman of District Legal Services Authorities and he was assisted by Additional District and Session Judge Kathua, Vinod Chatterjee.

One case pertaining to Motor Accident Claim Petition and two cases pertaining to financial institutions were taken up by this bench. All the three cases were settled through negotiation, mediation and conciliation. An amount of Rs 75,000 was awarded in one claim petition, in favour of the claiment.

The second bench was comprised of District Mobile Magistrate (Traffic) Kathua and Judicial Magistrate 1st class Kathua OP Thakur which was headed by Chief Judicial Magistrate KathuaVS Bhau. As many as 48 compoundable cases pertaining to different nature were referred and taken up by the banch. All the cases were amicably settled and disposed off while compounding fee amounting to Rs 27,450 was also realized on the spot.

The next Lok Adalat is scheduled to be held on March 11 in the same venue, the press note added.

SP to contest 51 seats in Assembly polls

SRINAGAR, Feb 28: The Samajwadi Party today said it would contest 51 out of 87 Assembly seats in the State.

The SP will put up candidates on 51 of the 87 constituencies of the State in the upcoming elections, State unit president Sheikh Abdul Rehman told reporters here.

He claimed that mid-term polls were likely in the State as there were a lot of differences between the Congress and PDP, both coalition partners.

"The mid-term elections are also likely in Jammu and Kashmir as there are lot of differences between Congress and PDP, but they are together only to share power," said president Sheikh Abdul Rehman.

Referring to the PDP demand for demilitarisation and withdrawal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act, Sheikh alleged PDP leader Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was instrumental in sending troops to the State in 1990 when he was Union Home Minister.

He alleged that despite the Ghulam Nabi Azad-led Government obtaining maximum funds from the Centre for development of the State, they went down the drain. (PTI)