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

JAMMU, Jan 22: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said that no specific time-frame has been fixed for the implementation of Prime Minister’s package in the State.

"The implementation of schemes under PM’s package is a continuous process and whenever funds are released the same are utlised", he said following uproar by the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly over the slow pace of work on various schemes and projects taken up under the package in the power sector.

Mr Azad said that some projects could take time of 10 years while the others can be completed within shortest possible time depending upon the number of clearances required from different quarters. "For execution of some projects, there are requirements of environment and Supreme Court clearance while for the others approach roads are required to be constructed and all these take much time", he added.

The Chief Minister also contested the claims of the Opposition that the then Finance Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig had assured that the Prime Minister’s package would be completed in four years and said that the assurance was about Baglihar Project.

"Had the tunnel of the project not been damaged in the floods the Baglihar Project would have been completed last year", Mr Azad said.

Earlier, National Panthers Party (NPP) Member Harsh Dev Singh while raising supplement-aries, said that since the launch of Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) in 2005 only three transformers have been installed in Udhampur district which clearly indicated the pace of work.

"If this is the pace of work then how would you complete Rs 18000 crore project", he asked and said that MLAs were not involved in formulation of plans for the electrification as a result of which private agency Larson and Tubro (L&T) engaged by the NHPC has been resorting to bunglings by drawing money against the already electrified villages.

Responding to the supplementary of Harsh Dev Singh, the Minister for Power Babu Singh said that he will enquire about the issue and if the allegations of the Member turned out to be correct he will take strict action.

Joining Harsh Dev Singh, National Conference Member Ali Mohammad Sagar said that only 10 percent of the Prime Minister’s package for power sector has been implemented in four years and wanted to know when will the people of State get benefit of the package.

Leader of the Opposition Abdul Rahim Rather said that for the improvement in power infrastructure Rs 1100 crore were sanctioned by the Centre but till November 11, 2007 the cumulative expenditure has been worked out at Rs 538 crore only.

He expressed surprise that despite having sufficient funds the Government has failed to contain transmission and distribution losses. "What are the reasons behind less expenditure by the Government", he asked.

However, the Minister said that key material and equipment were not available due to huge gap between demand and supply of key material and equipment and this has led to less expenditure and slow pace of work. Congress Member Raman Bhalla raised the issue of diversion of funds from the urban areas particularly his constituency and said this has affected several projects.

Assembly—Sidelights

* Jooth Bolna (telling lies) is biggest achievement of this Government, Leader of Opposition Abdul Rahim Rather said while contradicting figures given in budget speech by Finance Minister Tariq Hamid Qarra.

* "Piye Zao" was the remark of Mr Rather when he referred to budget speech in which raw tobacco and biris have been brought under zero VAT schedule.

* Mr Rather mocked at the budget proposal that Rakhi thread has been brought under zero VAT schedule from four per cent which means a Rakhi thread of Rs 1 will now cost 96 paise.

* Mr Rather quoted an example to derive home the point that figures had been fudged in the budget. He said a couple along with their foreign returns son were taking food and there were two chickens in the plate. The boy insisted that there were three chickens. How? the parents asked. "I say that they are three and that means they are three", the boy said. Mr Rather said the boy told his parents that he will mathematically prove that chickens were three. The boy kept his finger on one chicken and said one and then he kept his finger on second chicken and said two. Then he said one plus two is equal to three.

* Mr Rather ended his budget speech quoting a couplet "Ek Tarze Tagaful Hai Suboh Unko Mubarak, Ek Arze Tamanaa Hai So Hum Kahte Rahenge".

Govt to remove hotels raised within lake
Dal shrinked from 50 to 15 sq km: Dilawar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Famous Dal lake of Kashmir has shrinked from nearly 50 sq km to 15 sq km since 1900 and a massive conservation and management programme with the cost of over Rs 298 crore has been taken up by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for this lake.

While responding to a question of Nizam-ud-Din from PDP and subsequent supplementaries, Minister for Irrigation, Flood Control and PHE Mohd Dillawar Mir said that Dal has suffered a lot in view of massive encroachment along the lake side. He admitted that due to erection of many structures and house-boats and hotels, the beautiful lake has been reduced to a smaller size. He said Government was very serious for the preservation and conservation of this lake and removing encroachment.

The Minister further said that High Court has also taken cognizance of the matter and issued directions. The process of removing encroachment has already begun. Some alternative sites have been identified for the rehabilitation of over 15,000 families around and within the lake. He admitted that Government will not hesitate to remove even the hotels which have been raised within the lake.

Chairman of the Legislative Council, G N Lone also intervened and asked what the Government was doing for the rehabilitation of families being removed from lake area and what measures were taken to prevent flow of polluted water to lake from hotels. The Minister, however, maintained that under Dal conservation programme these things have been taken care of by the concerned agency and sites have been identified for the settlement of families in the phased manner.

Earlier, responding to main question, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Gharu Ram said that there was danger to the existence of lakes like Dal, Wullar, Mansabal and others in Ladakh. He pointed out that LAWDA was presently implementing Dal Lake Conservation and Management Programme. A total Rs 298 crore has been approved by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests and this programme which started in 2005 will be completed by 2010.

Again, an action plan for Rs 386 crore has been prepared by Wild Life Protection Department in case of Wullar Lake and it has been submitted to the Union Forests and Environment Ministry under PMs Reconstruction Plan. A development authority has also been set up by the State Government for the conservation of Mansabal and Wullar lakes. In Ladakh region, there was no immediate threat to the water bodies. However, Wild Life Protection Department has submitted an action plan for Rs 26.28 crore in case of Tso-moriri lake in Leh district. In case of Jammu division lakes an action plan of Rs 6.91 cr has been submitted to the Ministry.

Responding to another question, he said as regards other water bodies, a conservation programme of Khushalsar, Gilsar and Anchar lakes in Kashmir has been included in the City Developnment Plan for Mission City Srinagar under JNNURM. This is expected to cost Rs 206 crore for which NBCC has been approached for preparing detailed project report.

Comprehensive plan to upgrade healthcare : Mangat

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22 : Minister for Health & Medical Education Mangat Ram Sharma today informed the Upper House in reply to Call Attention Notice by Mr. B. A. Naaz said "keeping in view the paramount importance of the healthcare, the Health Department is making every possible effort to upgrade the existing health infrastructure, upscale the services and provide sufficient quantity of medicines and equipment in Government hospitals in the State including in Poonch district.

A comprehensive infrastructure development plan, he said has been formulated which has been approved by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The executing agencies have been asked to prepare DPRs of 142 health institutions from district to block level including that of Poonch district, for their upgradation", he added.

The Minister said "as regards Poonch, majority of the doctors and para-medicos are available and attending to the patient care efficiently. In all, 132 doctors and para medicos have been posted in these hospitals against the total sanctioned strength of 170. From April to December, 2007 over 2.30 lakh patients have been treated in OPD and 13,500 in IPD in these hospitals. Besides, 5149 major and minor surgeries and 2235 deliveries have been conducted in these hospitals during this period. About 22,500 diagnostic investigations have also been conducted during the period".

"To meet the requirement of specialist service especially in surgery and Gynae in Mandi, the department is deputing specialists from district Hospital Poonch twice a week in an internal arrangement", he added.

Health Minister said "regarding shortage of 34 doctors in these hospitals, the Health Department is beset with the problem of shortage of doctors in the State for many years. Efforts are underway to meet the situation by filling the vacancies on regular as well as on contractual basis expeditiously.

About 494 posts of Assistant Surgeons and 343 posts of B-grade specialists were referred to PSC. Of these, select list of 224 Assistant Surgeons was received by the department this year and accordingly were posted against vacancies. However, 95 of them are continuing in Medical Colleges and SKIMS for completion of their PG courses on court directions. Selection of remaining 269 Assistant Surgeons out of referred vacancies of 494,is expected by middle of this year. The PSC had expedited the selection process last year but the screening test was stayed by the High Court and now it is slated for next month.

The department has started receiving the select lists of B-grade specialists also. So far, lists of about 40 B-grade specialists have been received and appointment orders are under process. As soon as more select lists are received from PSC, the vacancies will be filled up including in Poonch district" he added.

He said "the Government has taken steps to expedite construction of work of Rs 7.67 crore District Hospital Poonch whose IPD block is likely to be completed by May this year. Rs 1.06 crore have also been provided this year for restoration of earthquake damages of health institutions in Poonch. The upgradation of ANMT School Poonch is likely to be completed by the end of this financial year along with construction of staff quarter at CHC Mendhar. Work on OPD block CHC Surankote is also under progress. A 10 bedded ward is under construction of CHC Surankote under NRHM. Similarly, construction of additional accommodation for diagnostic facilities, labour room etc have also been taken up at CHC Mandi and CHC Mendhar.

Discussion on budget in Legislative Council begins

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22 : Describing the budget as people friendly, P. Namgyal Congress, while initiating discussion in the Legislative Council today said that it covers the developmental scenario of the state. He said during past few years much improvement has been registered in power and other sectors.

He said that government has given its due consideration to improve and develop road connectivity and laid stress on infrastructural development of other sectors. He called the attention of the Government towards agriculture sector improve conditions of poor farmers and contribute towards state’s economy. He demanded scientific grading of apples to find better market for it. He also demanded subsidy on goods supplied to Ladakh region.

Mr. Mohammad Rashid Qureshi (NC) while taking part in the discussion demanded employment package and self-employment scheme for unemployed youth of the State.

He said there is need to improve infrastructure in power sector and asked for controlling prices of essentials in the market.

Oppn NC criticizes budget, ruling alliance hails it

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: While the members from Opposition National Conference (NC) criticized the budget for 2008-09 and blamed the Government for its total failure in fulfilling the promises made with the people of the State, those from ruling alliance hailed the budget by terming it a pro-people.

Resuming he discussion on the budget, the NC’s Abdul Gani Malik said no comparison of J&K has been made with other states of India. He alleged that the projects taken under NABARD in hand are pending for last seven years and stressed that due attention be paid to computer education.

The NC member also demanded that special package be announced for bad pockets.

Criticizing the budget, his Party colleague Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari wanted to know what happiness the coalition Government has brought to the people in this budget.

He said the budget reflects the economy of a State but the prices have touched the sky due to which people are facing starvation. "How can this Government claim to be people’s friendly as people visiting the hospitals to see their relatives and friends undergoing treatment have to pay tax", he added.

He also criticized the Roshni Act and alleged that Govern-ment’s claims to eradicate corruption have proved hollow. He said the coalition can’t win the elections by making hollow promises. Opposing the opening of new colleges, he said the new colleges were set up like Anganwari centres. "There is every apprehension that these colleges will be closed soon as they have no infrastructure and there no land available for their construction", he added.

The system has deteriorated to such an extent that even in GMC the doctors refer the patients to get X-rays and MRI tests conducted outside. He wanted to know when the machines in hospitals outside the State function properly why not in J&K?.

NC’s Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo Wanted to know what happened to the promise made by the coalition in Common Minimum Programme (CMP) regarding providing of job to one member of each family. Even under self employment, the loans were given to 2800 youth out of 3.5 lakh unemployed youth.

He also alleged that the District Development Boards (DDBs) have become defunct. The Government has also failed to exploit the optimum resources which the State has for power generation. In the 20 kilometers vicinity of Dulhasti project six power projects can be constructed which could generate 5000 mws of power but Government is not paying any attention to it, he added.

The NC MLA also alleged that his Constituency, Kishtwar was facing total injustice in distribution of funds.

Criticizing the budget, NC’s Rashpaul Singh said that nothing has been said by Finance Minister that how to tackle the growing unemployment. Even the claims on home delivery of Old Age Pension have proved hollow as for one year these people have not received their pension.

Terming the claims on development also false, he said 60 per cent people in Kalakote Constituency are without electricity and drinking water. Moreover, nothing has been kept for the ReTs in budget and no assurance has been given to employees demand on enhancement of retirement age to 60 years, he added.

However, Puran Singh of ruling alliance while hailing the budget turned the attention of Government towards his Darhal Constituency where he said 80 per cent people are without electricity and drinking water.

He said no policy has been framed to provide drinking water and electricity to 16 Panchayats of his Constituency.

Demanding that special relief be given to agriculture sector in the budget , he said 80 percent people in the State are dependent on agriculture alone. He also demanded regularisation of Home Guards and PSOs who gave their prime age in combating militancy in the State.

Girdhari Lal of Congress while hailing the budget, said giving a tax relief on bidi and tobacco is a good step.

His Party colleague Jhangir Mir stressed on framing a policy to save the agriculture land from being used for construction of residential or commercial complexes. He also demanded construction of sheds for nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals.

Khem Lata Wakhloo of Congress while hailing the budget said the people of State are satisfied with it.

PDP’s Shanti Devi also hailed the budget. She however, suggested that no tax, be imposed on pulses.

Out of 75,000 only 19,985 opted for Mediclaim
Over staying staff in PHE, Horticulture to be shifted

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Horticulture Mohd Dilawar Mir has said that entire over-staying staff in the Horticulture, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control will be shifted immediately after the budget session.

In response to a question of Lal Mohd Sabir in the Upper House during Question Hour here today, Mr Mir assured the House that entire over-staying staff not only in Horticulture but even in other departments under his control will be shifted after completion of budget session.

He admitted that out of 105 employees working in Horticulture in Poonch district 12 officials of the district cadre have been posted at the same place for the last more than a decade.

Four are from Ministerial cadre, two field staffers while six are Class-IV. Their services can be utilised within the district but they can be moved to other places within the district.

The four overstaying staff members from executive staff are-Nischint Sharma Sr Assistant, Mohan Singh Steno Typist, Inderjeet Kour Jr Asstt and Joginder Singh- cashier, all posted in Distt office Poonch. Khadim Hussain and Rajinder Parkash Hort Tech are posted at Mendhar and Harni since 1980.

The legislator alleged that these staff members have made their monopoly and hardly bother about their duty or instructions from the public representatives. They were even indulging in unfair practices, harassing public and needed to be shifted to other tehsils/ blocks in the interest of the administration. The minister assured immediate action in this regard.

In response to another question of Bilal Ahmed Khan Lodhi, Mr Mir said whole state is covered under Technology Mission Scheme for promotion of Horticulture. Under this scheme, growers were given plants on subsidy to cover more areas under horticulture. He further disclosed that under the scheme, ten lakh cardboard boxes were targeted for supply to growers but even less than one lakh boxes were procured by them. The response from the growers was very poor.

Replying to another supplementary raised by R S Chib and Bashir Naz, he said Doda, Poonch and Udhampur districts have great potential for promoting horticulture and affective steps were being taken in this regard. Mr Namgyal, M Y Taing also raised supplementaries.

While responding to a question of Sakina Itoo, Minister of State for Finance, Planning, Revenue and RDD, Aijaz Ahmed Khan said that out of the total 75,000 government employees targeted, only 19985 employees opted for Mediclaim Scheme introduced in July 2003. An amount of Rs 10.50 cr was released by the Government in favour of National Insurance Company (NIC). Now, for the refund of the excess premium paid by the Finance department to National Insurance Company, as premium for employees, Mediclaim policy, the department was attending the issue at three levels.

The matter has been taken up in the State Consumer Forum for suitable award, State High Court for appointment of arbitrator to settle the case and Chief Secretary J&K to take up the issue with Union Secretary Finance directing NIC to honour the commitment. He said after ascertaining the actual number of employees opting for the scheme NIC was asked to return the excess payment of Rs 7.70 cr. However, company did not honour its agreement. T S Wazir, M Y Taing and M R Qureshi also raised supplementaries.

Select Committee discusses Amendment Bill

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22 : A meeting of the Select Committee to discuss an Amendment Bill regarding establishment of Consumer Protection Forums at tehsil level, was held here today under the chairmanship of Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Taj Mohi-ud-Din.

The Bill seeks establishment of Consumer Forums at tehsil level to protect the rights of Consumers. The Private Members Bill No. 5 was brought by MLA Mir Saifullah during the year 2005 and was referred to the Select Committee for discussion and recommendations.

The Chairman apprised the Committee that Government has already passed a Bill to create such forums at district levels but Judges for District Level Consumer Courts are yet to be appointed, hence there is no scope to establish such forums at tehsil levels at this point of time. He requested the Member to withdraw the Bill with the assurance that Government itself would bring such legislation at an appropriate time.

The Committee would adopt the report in its next meeting and refer the same to the House for consideration.

Homeguards jawans stage
demonstration, demand regularisation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: The members of Homeguard Welfare Association (HWA) staged a demonstration in front of Divisional Commissioner’s Office today where the two members of the organization are sitting on fast unto death for last five days.

The protesting jawans of Homeguards are demanding the regularisation of their jobs. Talking to media persons a spokesman of the Association said that Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad had promised the Association regarding regularisation of jobs on January 30 last year but till date nothing was done in this regard.

The jawans later took a rally from Divisional Commissioner’s Office to Shalamar Chowk in support of their demand. They warned to intensify the agitation in case the demand was not solved by January 26.

The spokesman of the Association said that a regular jawans of J&K Police undergoes only nine months training course while the Homeguards jawans undergo two months training course every year.

He said the jawans employed in 1992 have so far undergone 32 months training course and still they have not been regularized which is a grave injustice with them.

The two jawans who are on fast unto death included Mohammed Ashraf and Rajkumar.

Meanwhile, the dharna launched by the Association entered the 42nd day today.

111th birthday of Guru Gyagi Ji celebrated

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: A special function was today organised by Guru Gyagi Mission at village Shahzadpur, 10 kilometers from here to mark the 111th birthday of Guru Gyagi Ji Maharaj.

A large number of devotees from all over the State participated in the function with enthusiasm.

Speakers on the occasion said Guru Gyagi was one of the greatest humanists who taught the people to be truly religious.

They said Guru Gyagi in deep humanity called himself the slave of the slaves. Even after he had attained the highest possible degree of spirituality, he maintained his humility.

They further said the Guru Gyagi Ji was above the religious dogmas. His teachings were very simple and could be understood by ordinary people. He regarded all human beings as belonging to a single family and according to him there was no question as to who was better or worse. He believed in the doctrine of fathered of God and brotherhood of man.

On this occasion, a resolution was passed unanimously to urge the State Government to declare the birth day of Guru Gyagi Ji as gazetted Holiday in the district of Jammu under J&K Negotiable Instrument Act.

Earlier, the devotees garlanded the idol of Guru Gyagi Ji Maharaj installed in his newly constructed temple. The devotees also paid their obeisance to him.

Children music contest held on second day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: On the second day of ongoing on the spot music competition organised by the Cultural Academy, 68 children from various institutions participated.

The junior group children performed in vocal, light, folk and classical as also instrumental.

In the vocal (light and folk category), Shruti, Preeti, Arushi Tickoo, Abneer Koul, Aditi Arora, Rama Choudhary, Prajval Gupta, Niharika Sharma, Arjun Mahajan, Aneesh Khullar, Vidushi Vasishth, Ragini Gupta, Sandip Kumar, Suvidha Khajuria, Janvi Mahajan, Akansha and Arunav Arora presented bhajan and songs.

In the vocal classical category, Sishir Nag Choudhary, Manik Wanchoo, Sourav Sharma, Sharv Raina, Disha Jamwal, Suskashna Sharma, Sulekha Bhat, Tooba Khatoon, Mautri Sharma, Chetna Raina, Tanisha, Arshita Langoo and Shivani Misri made their presentation.

In the instrumental category, Arshdeep, Abhay Kumar, Shivohm Gupta, Bhavya Jain, Saiste Gupta,

Abhey Sharma, Bonney Kandley and Ambar Gandotra showed their skill on tabla and violin.

Zero Hour in Council
Dy Chairman alleges irregularities in JDA allotments

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22: Minister for Health & Medical Education Mangat Ram Sharma in reply to a issue raised during Zero Hour in Upper House by Deputy Chairman S. Arvinder Singh regarding alleged irregularities in allotment of JDA plots, said that a decision has been taken in the cabinet recently that the no compensation would be provided to those who have occupied JDA Land.

In reply to another issue raised by Mr. Mohammad Sharief Niaz regarding regularization of ISM doctors who have been engaged on contractual basis some year back, Mr. Sharma said that various steps have been taken for promotion of allopathic and Ayurvedic system under the National Rural Health Mission. Replying to yet another issue raised by R.S. Chib regarding upgradation of Satwari airport and parking slot, the Minister said that the matter would be taken up with Civil Aviation Ministry and Airport Authority of India.

Lal Mohd. Sabir demanded training to para-medical staff posted in far-off and hilly areas.

Sakina Ittoo demanded salary and absorption of people who had provided their land free of cost to PHE department since some years back.

Farida Mir invited the attention of government towards reported mismanagement of BSNL department in connection with tariff deposit.

B. A. Naaz demanded free ration to the people of drought hit areas of the state.

Nizam-ud-Din Bhat invited attention of the government towards poor power supply in the snow-hit areas of the valley. He also demanded proper utilization of funds under APDRP and engagement of trained ITI electrician youth on need basis in the department.

M.Y. Taing demanded adequate power and water supply in Chhotipora, Sedwan, Haripora and Ameshpora of Shopian district.

Mohammad Rashid Qureshi demanded introduction of Urdu as medium of instruction in the Jammu University, apart from English and Hindi.

Nassrullah demanded provision of landline telephone connections in villages of Chiktan block of Kargil district.

Prof. Bhim Singh invited the attention of government towards contractual teachers who have been engaged under available vacancies.

Ashok Sharma demanded establishment of Degree College at Kalakot and higher secondary schools at Mithani, Dhalodi, Tatapani and Dharmshalla.

Mohammad Sultan Panditpuri demanded release of funds to the contractors engaged for snow-clearance from roads in Kupwara district.

T.S. Wazir demanded early completion of Sunjwan-Chata road. He also demanded adequate water supply for Bhatindi area.

P. Namgyal demanded upgradation of Primary Health Centres of Nobra Sub-Division and Nyoma block.

Misappropriation of milk fat
SVO produces challan against 3
members of Milk Cooperative

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: State Vigilance Organisation (SVO) has produced challan against three officials of the Kashmir Valley Milk Producers Cooperative Federation for misappropriation of milk fat worth Rs 2.15 lakh during 1987-88.

An official spokesman said that Managing Director of Kashmir Valley Milk Producers Cooperative Federation Limited lodged a complaint with SVO alleging therein that some employees of the Milk Cooperative had misappropriated the milk products thereby causing loss to the Cooperative exchequer.

Acting on the complaint, SVO registered a case and started investigation during which the records of the Milk Cooperative were seized and scrutinized. The statements of the witnesses who were conversant with the facts of the case were also recorded.

It was revealed that Milk Federation had an opening balance of 157.28 kilograms of milk fat on July 16, 1987 and between the period July 16, 1987 to October 20, 1987 the Federation received 29,590.74 kilograms of milk fat taking the total stocks to 29,748.2 kilograms.

After allowing permissible losses on account of processing of milk fat, 3274.89 kgs of milk fate was found misappropriated. Similarly, out of 68,288.15 kilograms of SNF, only 63,245 kgs were accounted for which included the permissible losses on account of processing and handling between the period July 16, 1987 to October 20, 1987 thereby revealing a misappropriation of 5042.62 kilograms of SNF.

The investigation further revealed that misappropriation and shortages occurred during the tenure of Mohd Yousaf Bhat, Procurement Assistant, Abdul Majid Bhat, Assistant Manager and R K Koul, then Receipt Officer.

After completion of investigation, the case was sent to the Government on November 15, 1995 for accord of sanction for prosecution and on December 24, 1996 the Government accorded sanction in respect of two accused while as the proposal for sanction of prosecution in respect of third accused was forwarded to the management of the Milk Federation.

In the meanwhile, the accused officials filed a writ petition in the High Court and obtained stay orders against the sanction for prosecution. On vacation of stay, the matter was again referred to the Government for accord of fresh sanction on August 10, 2007.

The Government accorded fresh sanction for prosecution on November 23, 2007 and accordingly the challan was produced in the Court of Special Judge Anti-Corruption, Kashmir for judicial determination.

PK holds national convention

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Panun Kashmir led by Dr Agnishekhar held its national convention here, today. The activists form Jammu, Noida (UP) and Delhi attended the meeting, the focus of which was organizational restructuring so as to make it more vibrant and broad based to meet the challenges on political and social front.

Dr Agnishekhar dissolved the existing structures and put in place an interim 12 member Committee headed by Daya Krishen Koul along with general secretary Sanjay Moza.

Dr Agnishekhar also announced that P K will hold third World Kashmiri Pandit conference in the days to come.

In the political session serious concern was expressed over the deteriorating political scenario of Kashmiri Pandits in the State polity and the marginalisation of KPs from employment opportunities in the State was viewed seriously.

It said the Government’s apathy towards the relief and rehabilitation was so manifest that it did not bother to look into the problems of K P youth sitting on hunger strike for last over one and half month.

Dr Agnishekhar demanded immediate relief benefits to bifurcated ration card holders.

The meeting also expressed concern over the implementation of Working Committee recommendations sought by some Valley based politicians to appease their constituencies. It alleged that these recommendations are silent on the issues concerning KPs and are mainly militant centric.

Maintain status-quo: HC
Opening of book stall in GCW Gandhi Nagar challenged

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: In a writ petition challenging opening of book stall in the Government College for Women Gandhi Nagar premises, Vacation Judge of State High Court, Jammu Wing Justice Hakim Imtiyaz Hussain has issued notice to Secretary Higher Education, Director Colleges, Principal of the College and private respondent Amarpreet Kour returnable within two weeks. In the meanwhile court ordered that status-quo be maintained.

The petition was filed by a member of Book Sellers Association through Advocate Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed in which it has been submitted that the petitioner was providing computer education besides supplying books and stationery to various Government Departments.

On knowing that one of the book-seller has been allowed to open their book-stall in the Government College for Women Parade Jammu, the petitioner applied for opening the similar book-stall in the college.

But despite the endorsement of Minister as well as the Commissioner, the respondents have permitted to open the book stall in favour of Amarpreet Kour. The petitioner sought quashment of allotment order issued by Director Colleges in favour of private respondent.

After hearing the petition, Justice Hakim Imtiyaz Hussain issued notice to Secretary Higher Education, Director Colleges, Principal of the College and private respondent Amarpreet Kour returnable within two weeks.

In the meanwhile court ordered that status-quo be maintained.

3-tier Panchayati Raj Coalition’s first priority: Mula Ram

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22: Minister for Rural Development Mula Ram on Tuesday said that the establishment of a vibrant three tier Panchayati Raj tops the priority list of his Government.

Minister was addressing a public gathering at Balwal after distributing cheques worth Rs 10.75 Lakh among 87 Indira Awas Yojana beneficiaries and 132 swing Machines to poor women.

Minister of state Social Welfare G M Saroori, besides senior officers of RDD, SW and other departments were present on the occasion.

Describing establishment of a viable Panachayat Raj as a basic need for effecting development of Rural areas, he said the objective of empowerment of rural populace of state could be realized only after having a full fledge 3- tier system on the pattern of other states of the country.

Referring to various centrally sponsored schemes, Minister said by April next year the entire state would be covered under ambitious NREGA scheme. Calling upon the people to avail the employment opportunities provided under the scheme, Minister said that there is no limit of funds for the flagship scheme which guarantees every rural individual 100 employment days in a year.

Giving details of other projects being taken up in the area, he said Government has a plan to develop an Artificial Lake after the name of Baba Jitto which would involve an amount of Rs 27 crore.

Addressing the public Mr. GM Saroori called upon people to take maximum advantage of centrally sponsored schemes including NERGA .

Promoting terrorism, intolerance root
cause of prevailing ills in Pak: Sinha

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22: Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) S. K. Sinha today said that abetting terrorism and promoting intolerance have been root cause for prevailing ills in Pakistan.

Speaking to media on the sidelines of an interactive session with school children of Kashmir after their return from "Wattan-ki-Sair" organized by Jammu and Kashmir Police at Raj Bhawan this morning, the Governor said" we have to learn lesson from what is happening across, though we are concerned about the people of Pakistan and wish them to come out of present morass".

The Governor said that the volatile Pak scenario amplifies that the monster of terrorism ultimately bits the hands of those who feed it. He said that it is desire of India to see peace prevailing their soon.

Addressing the students, Genral Sinha eulogized India’s democratic and secular values, saying that the country provides ample opportunities to open up vistas of progress and prosperity to all, irrespective of their religious or regional affiliation. In this context he cited the examples of Lal Bahadur Shastri and Dr. A. P. J Abdul Kalam, who by dint of their hard work, devotion and patriotism touched highest pinnacles in the country’s political horizons, though they came from modest background.

Governor dwelt in details about the places they visited and apprised them of their historical perspective. He hoped that experience gained from the fellow students of other parts of the country will give them an insight about the places and the people which in turn will broaden their mental horizon. He urged them to disseminate the message of peace, love and tranquility in their areas as good will ambassadors of the future.

The students posed a volley of questions to the General regarding his childhood days, academics and career. He replied their questions and also referred to his association with Kashmir as a soldier and now as a Governor.

Earlier, the Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda briefed the Governor about various civic action programmes launched by Jammu and Kashmir Police for improving the quality of life of the people and giving exposure to youth on wider canvas. He said that Bharat Darshan trips cover mostly the students who have not gone beyond the Jammu and Kashmir State so far.

Among others who were present included Inspectors General of Police, J. A. Makhdoomi, Sheikh Owais Ahmad, Deputy Inspectors General of Police Ravidner Kotwal, Muneer Ahmed Khan, Commandant, IRP 3rd Bn. Rafaq-ul-Hassan, AIG (Personnel) Riyaz Ahmed Bedar and other senior police officers.

College non-teaching staff observes mass casual leave

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: The working in the Government colleges throughout the State came to an absolute stand-still, as college non-teaching employees today observed mass casual leave to lodge protest against the failure of Higher Education Department in conceding their demands.

The protesting non-teaching employees held rallies and demonstrations throughout the State. In Jammu, they assembled at Government College for Women (GCW) Parade and held a rally.

Addressing the rally, Ram Kumar Sharma, State chairman of All J&K Colleges Non-Teaching Employees Association said the Higher Education Department has failed to implement its agreement with the association for redressal of their long pending demands including central pay scale for non-teaching employees w.e.f January’ 86 and filling of vacant posts to overcome understaffing.

Sharma criticized the higher education authorities for their failure to implement its agreement despite lapse of seven month time.

He said non-teaching staff was facing acute problems due to over workload and no DPC has been held at Srinagar and Jammu for the promotion to those working in library, laboratory, technical staff, clerical and as class-IV staff who have been stagnated for a long time at their positions.

According to reports, the similar rallies and demonstrations were held in Srinagar also.

Meanwhile, the association passed a resolution asking the authorities to concede their demands at an earliest failing which they would be compelled to launch the agitation once again.

Jammu urban NC takes out rally against Roshani Act

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Jammu urban district unit of National Conference held a protest rally under the presidentship of Chander Mohan Sharma which alleged that present Government was harassing the poor people by serving notice for transferring ownership rights to them under Roshani Act.

The rally started from Indira Chowk and culminated outside Civil Secretariat. The rally besides NC workers was also attended by those who have been served notices of eviction.

Speaking on the occasion Chander Mohan Sharma lambasted the coalition Government saying that law of natural justice was seen no where under the present coalition regime, which was loaded with administrative anarchy under whose load common people were pressed and being harassed by one way of the other.

He said the coalition Government has defeated the very purpose of whole Roshani Scheme, which was enacted by National Conference regime to spend the revenue collected from the occupants of land on power projects.

Chander Mohan Sharma impressed on the State Government to reduce the rates and keep them at par with with the rates fixed for rural areas viz Rs 100 per kanal and desist from applying two yard sticks. Local people also joined NC activists and burnt the notices served to them by the Government.

The protest dharna was organized by S Sucha Singh, Rakesh Kumar, Raj Kumar and Swarn Singh.

Others who present on the occasion included Mahinder Gupta, Ashwani Charak, Ab Gani Teli, Pardeep Bali, Vinod Sharma, Ritesh Kapoor, Suresh Gupta, Sushil Gupta, Rachpal Singh, Mohd Shabir Sambyal, Jameel Shah, Nitin Saini, Salim Chowdhary, Partap Singh etc.

YWAIKS accuses Government of ignoring displaced Pandits

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Youth Wing All India Kashmir Samaj (YWAIKS) which is on chain hunger strike for last 43 days in front of Relief Commissioner’s Office here demanding relief for the bifurcated ration card holders today lambasted the Government for turning a deaf year towards their demand.

Addressing the demonstrators, president of YWAIKS, R K Bhat urged the Government either release relief in favour of bifurcated ration card holders or provide Government jobs to them as the displaced Pandits have totally been neglected in the field of employment over last 18 years of turmoil.

He said in case the Government continues its rigid stand on the issue, the KP youth will be forced to intensify agitation. He said there is desperation among the community youth due to the callousness of Government towards their demands.

Mr Bhat warned the unending agony and denial of right to survival to displaced Pandit youth may lead to any catastrophe for which both state and Central governments will be responsible.

He also sought immediate intervention of Chief Minister in the matter.

Besides Mr Bhat, Sanjay Razdhan, Soom Nath Pandita, Mrs Pinky Bhat, Sheela Koul, Nancy Bhat, M L Ganjoo, P N Pandit, Ashok Kumar and Bhagat Singh sat on chain hunger strike today.

Meanwhile, the Migrant Cell of CPI (M) has extended its full support to the displaced striking youth in their struggle. The Cell president Makhan Lal has urged the Government to settle the demand without further delay.

PNB distributes Rs 17 cr under Spread 2007-08

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Jan 22: Punjab National Bank (PNB) today distributed Rs 17 crore under spread 2007-08 series of function titled Utsav Bharosa at Government Polytechnic for Women Jammu.

Sudhanshu Pandey, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu who was the chief guest on the occasion presided over the function. N A Malik, Principal Government Polytechnic for women Jammu was the guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Vivek Arya, Zonal Manager, PNB, gave brief overview of Spread 2007-08 series of function launched by the Bank which is aimed at to improve the CD ratio of the Bank. He said a sum of 271 crore have been distributed by the Bank in J&K till December 31, 2007 during the current financial year. The Bank proposes to distribute about 400 crores through 55 structured programmes till March so that the CD Ratio of the Bank could touch the system which stood at 44 percent approximately.

Mr Arya also informed that the Bank had distributed Rs 14.67 crore under BLESS 07-08 (Education Loan Scheme fro J&K) during the current financial fiscal i.e from First April 2007 to December 31, 2007.

The Divisional Commissioner thanked the Bank management for conducting such programmes and demonstrating a will to get involved in the economic development of the state. N A Malik also appreciated the proactive role of the PNB in the state especially in giving loans to needy students for higher and technical education.

The vote of thanks was proposed by S K Jain, Chief Manager PNB, Canal Road Jammu.