Governor inaugurates SMVDU’s Matrika

Excelsior Correspondent

KATRA,Mar 8: Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) S. K. Sinha, today said the mission undertaken by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University to spread professional and technical education in this region and the country will be accomplished and no impediment will be allowed to come in its way in becoming an institution of excellence of intellectual standard.

Inaugurating the state of art Auditorium "Matrika" in the campus of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University this morning, the Governor said impossible has been made possible by the dedicated effort of Vice Chancellor, Professor N. K. Bansal and his team.

Describing Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University as a flag ship of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the Governor said that apart from hard work and dedication of all, the blessings of the Mata have been always there to achieve achievement after achievement.

General Sinha said he has been envisioning a temple of learning that quenches the academic thirst of the youth and is satisfied to have it in the shape of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University.

Speaking on the occasion Vice Chancellor, Prof. N. K. Bansal, gave a detailed account of the team sprit in translating the vision of the Chancellor into reality. Prof. Bansal also dwelt on the growth and evolution of the University and said that it is on the path of excellence in every sphere. He described the Auditorium as one of the best and said hardly any University possesses such a facility within short span of three years of its inception.

The inaugural session was marked by a high profile musical extravaganza organized by J&K academy of art culture & languages in collaboration with Govt. Women’s College Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.

The main attraction was Sadat Hasan Mantoo’s satirical skit directed by eminent Kashmiri theaterist Mushtak Kak. The cultural event was a mixed blend of pluralistic ethos of Jammu & Kashmir with some items depicting country’s cultural diversity. While Ghulam Mohd Sadiq presented Mata’s Bhaint, students of Women’s College Jammu left the audience spell bound by their Eid Rouf in Kashmiri. The grand finale came from the students of SMVD University, who in the background of country’s odyssey in bravery and valor in its freedom struggle, recited Vande Matram.

As a token of affection from the Management, Faculty and Students Prof. Bansal presented a memento to the Governor on the occasion.

3 buses forcibly sent to Pathankot
SRTC employees strike goes on, rally held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: While the Transport authorities tried to forcibly start the operation of SRTC fleet by sending five buses to Pathankot and Katra, nearly 400 employees of the Corporation today held rally in the premises of Bibi Chand Kour Samadi at Lower Gumat here today.

Three SRTC employees leaders were arrested today while out of the eleven in police custody, nine have been bailed out. Two employees leaders Munir Hussain and Makhan Lal who refused to move to court for seeking bail, were sent to Central Jail today. Three employees arrested today were taken to Narwal police post and let off in the evening.

While the police and para-military force personnel were deployed around SRTC Yard and its other offices to arrest the agitating workers, a large number of them today assembled in the premises of Bibi Chand Kaur Samadi and held a rally there. Dev Raj Bali and several other employees leaders addressed the gathering and expressed their resolve to continue strike. They said the strike will remain continued till their 5 months salary and COLA slabs are released.

Today, the SRTC management tried to forcibly start operation of the SRTC buses and sent three buses to Pathankot and two to Katra Vaishnodevi under police protection. The police drivers plied the buses as the SRTC drivers had gone underground. Two buses received minor damage as some miscreants pelted stone near Kunjwani. However, nobody was injured. On Monday, the protest rally will be held at undeclared venue, a spokesman of the SRTC maintained.

EJAC leaders Abdul Qayoom Wani and Shakti Gupta have urged the Government to release the salary and the SRTC employees and resolve the crisis. They said that imposition of ESMO was unjustified. They also condemned brutal police lathicharge on the protesting employees.

Previous regime responsible for political instability: Qarra

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Mar 8: Ridiculing the previous regime for being responsible for retrogress and downward dip in economic growth of Jammu and Kashmir, Finance Minister and PDP Senior Leader Tariq Hamid Qarra said that it was the previous regime which led the people astray for over 37 years and made them wondering in the wilderness.

Speaking at the Worker's Convention at Hazratbal today, he said "the coalition Government in last five years have put in place people-friendly and pragmatic policies to catapult the development and ensure lasting peace. "We removed the myth from the minds of people that was inculcating in them during 40 years of exploitation politics", he said and added "PDP has shown its metal, viability and relevance to shoulder responsibilities fairly and with capacity".

He said the vision of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed to resolve issues on table and nurture the concept of dialogue 'has received global recognition'. On the development front.

Mr. Sayeed led the march towards goal of progress and peace with dignity. "We fulfilled the promises made and wrote a new chapter in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir by uprooting the propagandists, vested interests and exploiters".

He asked the people to continue supporting the concept of Mr. Sayeed for the larger interests of the State and resolution of all issues amicably.

BJP, Sanatan Sabha call for Kishtwar shutdown

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: The BJP and the Sanatan Dharm Sabha today said they had given a shutdown call in Kishtwar district to protest alleged damage to a temple caused during repair of a road.

Sanatan Dharm Sabha Kishtwar President Brij Mohan Dubey alleged that a big boulder blasted during work on the Kishtwar-Chatroo highway by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) damaged the temple at Bindrabal.

He alleged that BRO authorities, despite several requests, failed to repair the historic temple.

At a press conference in Kishtwar, Dubey claimed that the authorities had agreed that they would repair the building in case blasting damaged the temple.

BJP leader Sunil Sharma said, "we will observe a complete shut down in Kishtwar on Tuesday to protest the damage to the temple building and callous attitude of the local administration."

Clerical staff protests, extends strike upto Mar 15

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Clerical staff of all the J&K Government departments organised a large rally at Exhibition Ground near Tawi bridge here today in support of the their demand of getting removed pay anomalies.

Kam Chod Hartal of the clerical cadre employees has virtually paralysed the work in the government offices. The public is the worst sufferer. The departments of Sales Tax, Excise, PDD and PHE are worst hit with the two- week long strike and the people are unable to deposit the revenue/ tariff. Clerical staff members of Municipal Corporation Jammu and Directorate of Health Services also held demonstrations in their respective offices here and resolved to continue their struggle. Reports of massive protest demonstration and rally under the leadership of B C Raina have also received from Rajouri. Junior, Senior and Head Assistants are demanding hike in the pay grades as done in case of teachers and others.

A large number of women employees also participated in today’s protest rally which started from Tawi bridge near Press Club. The employees were shouting slogans in support of their demands of removing pay grade anomalies. Ram Kumar, Rehmat Ullah Malik, Anil Mehta, Ravi Singh and some other employees leaders addressed. They criticised the Government for its indifferent attitude. They alleged that Government was non-serious over the situation and adamant to resolve the crisis.

The rally after passing through the Jewel Chowk, Gumat, Raghunath Bazar and City Chowk culminated at Shalamar. Later, it was decided by the Central executive of the Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh All Departments Clerical Staff Association to extend the strike up to March 15 as the Government has shown only its rigid attitude towards the problem.

Similar rallies and demonstrations were held at Srinagar, Leh, Kishtwar, Rajouri and other district headquarters. The work remained paralysed even in tehsil and sub-divisional level offices.

VHP reacts sharply to Asma’s comments

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Vishaw Hindu Parishad (VHP) has sharply reacted to the comments made by Mrs Asma Jahangir a human rights activist from Pakistan and said that she has no authority to interfere in our affairs and make comments.

The VHP which held a meeting under the chairmanship of its state president, Dr Ramakant Dubey said the organization has taken the serious objection to the remarks of Pak human rights activits.

Dr Dubey said instead of visiting India as a human rights activist first she should set the situation right in her own country which has surpassed all records in violating the human rights since its creation in 1947.

Dr Dubey also criticized the Government for allowing any Tom, Dick and Harray from any where the world to visit the State and make comments on human rights and condition in the State.

One killed, 3 injured in road accident

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: One person was killed and three others received injuries when a Maruti car, they were travelling in skidded off the road and rolled down at Parkhwal under the jurisdiction of Rajbagh Police Station.

The deceased has been identified as Parveen Kumar, son of Labh Singh of Maharajpur. The injured have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in.

Meanwhile, one Ashok Kumar, son of Dheru Ram of Chak Jaffar under the jurisdiction of Kanachak Police Station, died under suspicious circumstances at his residence.

The body was shifted to Government Medical College Hospital for post-mortem and other legal formalities.

Similarly, another person Swarn Singh, son of Mewa Singh of Sangpur was found dead under suspicious circumstances at his residence.

In both the cases, police has initiated inquest proceedings.

Anganwari workers ask Govt to
settle demands by Mar 27

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Anganwari Workers Welfare Association today warned to launch a demonstration on March 27 in case the Government failed to settle their long pending demands by then.

This was announced by the senior leader of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), Laxman Ravinder Singh, president of the Association, Mrs Swarna Choudhary, other leaders Mrs Koushallya Devi and Ashok Choudhary at a joint press conference here, today.

The Association is demanding hike in the salary of workers to Rs 3000 per month and that of helpers to Rs 2000.

Lambasting the State Government for its rigid attitude towards the Anganwari workers and blaming it for its total failure in redressing their demands, Laxman Ravinder Singh said other State Governments including Uttranchal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madya Pradesh have increased the salaries of the Anganwari workers except J&K.

He said the Government should clear the pending payment in all ICDS projects in State, ensure the payment of salary in time, pay TA and teaching Allowance to workers, rent of centers and settle the other demands.

Commenting on the State Government decision regarding the creation of 6711 new centers in 140 ICDS projects, creation of 268 additional posts of supervisors and constitution of Committee, he demanded that new centers should not be opened near existing centers and a proper survey be conducted for uncovered areas and selection be made in a transparent manner.

Mr Singh demanded that all posts of supervisors be filled up from Anganwari workers as is being done by other states of the country. Further no male supervisors be appointed in the ICDS, new rules framed and all appointments made through Service Selection Board.

He also criticized the ICDS authorities in Jammu for harassing the Anganwari workers and helpers unnecessarily and alleged that one Anganwari worker of Jammu block thrashed by an officer for demanding release of salaries and payment of dues spent by her on refreshment of the children.

Mr Singh warned that in case the Government failed to take action against the erring Officer, the Association will be forced to launch agitation.

‘Heritage Trek’ expedition from April 12

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Arrangements for Heritage Trek expedition from Mongri to Mantalai, district Udhampur being conducted from April 12 were discussed in a meeting of senior officers convened here last evening.

Minister of State for Forests, CAPD, Higher Education and Tourism, G. M. Saroori chaired the meeting.

During the meet it was apprised that the ‘Heritage Trek’ expedition is being organized by the Youth Hostels Association of India, J&K Branch in collaboration with the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu.

Each trekking expedition will be of seven days duration and will touch unique heritage sites, besides meadows, pastures, thick deodar forests and high mountain tracks. The expedition has been designed to be a unique experience offering trekkers a new trekking route in the Pancheri hills and combines a healthy outdoor activity with exposure to the rich natural and built heritage of the state.

About 1000 trekkers are expected to undertake the trek in groups of 30 to 35 each over a period of one and half months. This will also include youth from foreign countries.

The base for the trek will be at Udhampur and the first night halt will be at the newly constructed Youth Hostel constructed by the Tourism Department at Mongri thus opening up the remote Bhamag area for tourism activity.

ING Vysya launches ‘Golden Life’ retirement plan

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: ING Vysya Life, the world’s largest financial services provider group launched its Unit linked retirement solutions, ING Golden Life here this afternoon.

Regional vice president (North) of the company, Rajiv Panwar announced the launch of this plan that offers key benefits of Loyalty Units and Life Stage Investment Program (LSIP). Area Manager, J&K Kamal Sharma and some other senior executives of the Company were also present at the launching ceremony.

While briefing the media-persons about the new retirement plan, Mr Panwar said new product comes with attractive customer benefits and encourages customers to look at retirement planning with a long-term view. He said the savings for retirement needed to be planned with products that benefit in the long term. In this plan, company has introduced features, that will help customers build a large fund for their retirement and realise their post-retirement dreams, Mr Panwar added.

Elaborating further, Mr Panwar disclosed that Gold Life plan offers, additional Loyalty units to the customer’s fund every year. The units are added as a percentage of the fund value, at the end of each policy year. This helps customers grow their retirement funds faster and benefits them tremendously in the long term. Citing an example he said, a customer saves Rs 5 lakh per annum for a premium payment term of 5 years and stays vested for a period of 30 years, he will be awarded Loyalty Units based on the fund size at the rate of 0.2% and 0.3 % of the fund value each year as long as his premium are paid.

Referring to Life Stage Investment Program, Mr Panwar said LSIP offered in Golden Life helps customers manage the retirement fund according to their risk profile. Customers have a choice between standard investment program, whereby upto 60 % of fund is invested in equity or an aggressive program, wherein upto 100 % is invested in equity. LSIP manages the portfolio by automatically reducing the customer’s fund exposure to equity as the vesting age gets closer. The age limit for this is minimum 45 and maximum 75 years. Minimum entry age is 18 years, and maximum entry age is 65 years and one can choose a term between 5 and 30 years. There is option for one single premium or the regular one.

Kamal Sharma disclosed that company was doing good business in J&K and in last two years it generated the business of nearly Rs 15 crore. It is operating in 50 countries and have customer base of over six crore. The product is expected to get very good response in the region, he added.

BJP Minority Cell asks CM to fulfill his promises

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Minority Cell has urged the Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad to fulfill the promises made with the militancy victims of Kulhand in Doda district.

Talking to reporters here, today, the Morcha national secretary, Ishtiyaq Ahmed Wani alleged that the Chief Minister has failed to fulfill the promises made with the militancy victims of Kulhand. He said on the name of Kulhand the appointments were made in other parts of Doda district while these victims were totally ignored.

He also alleged that other promises made by the Chief Minister regarding solving the problems of the labourers in Doda district have not fulfilled. "Though the labourers have been given job cards in the district but till date they are idle", he added.

Due to the failure of Government to provide work to labourers, 750 labourers of Doda have been forced to migrate to neighboring Himachal Pradesh, he said.

He, while criticizing the Government said the small contractors and their labourers are also totally idle as all works under Gramin Sadak Yojna have been allotted without tenders which has further added to the woes of this hapless class of people.

JURSEA opposes extension to retired
teachers, threatens strike

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: The Jammu University Research Scholars Executive Association (JURSEA) has threatened to go on an indefinite strike if University of Jammu (JU) would continue with extensions to retired teachers.

Addressing a press conference, JURSEA president Vikas Sharma lashed out at the university administration for giving extensions to most of the retired professors thereby blocking career avenues to younger lot.

Sharma said that more that 20 retired teachers have been continuing with JU on various assignments and were occupying the spacious rooms in several departments. He said "It’s a matter of great injustice that younger lot of scholars have been waiting for career opportunities but the retired lot is not ready to leave the campus and even the administration is helping them".

However, he threatened to launch an indefinite strike in case all the retired teachers will not be relieved within a period of seven days.

Also speaking, Anuradha Goswami, chairperson pointed out the problems being faced by female students and scholars in the campus. She demanded separate hostel facility for female research scholars. She also emphasized on the need to improve the existing facilities in the hostel.

JURSEA also expressed concern over lack of basic facilities for scholars in various departments despite of the fact that a sum of Rs. one lakh was sanctioned to each department for developing the said facilities.

Other office bearers of the JURSEA were also present on the occasion.

"International Women’s Day" observed
First lady calls for women empowerment,
awareness of their rights

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8:The occasion of "International Women’s Day" was widely observed by several institutions and NGOs. Cultural programmes, debates, symposia etc. were also organized to mark the day.

The meeting of Annual General Body of Association for Social Health in India (ASHI), J&K branch was held today in Raj Bhawan Jammu, which was presided over by Mrs. Premini Sinha, first lady of the State.

In her opening address, she underscored the imperative of a strong strategy for establishing wide range of partnership with community to maximize and enhance the development outcome by reducing the vulnerability of the people in general and women in particular who are on the margins of development through skill endowment, improved access to services and heightened level of participation in the developmental process.

Later, Kailash Rajput, secretary ASHI referred to the major achievements of the ASHI during the year 2007-08.

J&K State Commission for Women in collaboration with Hindustan Coca Cola organized a programme in University of Jammu (JU) to observe International Women’s Day.

More than 2000 female students and social activists from different parts of the State took part in the programme. They also performed several cultural programmes to mark the day.

On the occasion, Coca Cola Awards were also distributed among the social activists who made efforts towards society and women. They were Hafiza Muzaffar, secretary J&K State Women Commission, Prof. Rita Jitendra, Raj Bharti, president Viraj Kala Kendra, Vandana Jojra from Sahyog India and G M Saroori, MoS Social Welfare.

BJP Mahila Morcha also organized a function on International Women’s Day wherein hundreds of women from different parts of the city and morcha took part.

Speaking on the occasion, Usha Choudhary, State president of the morcha urged the women folk to come forward and assume greater responsibilties in the society and also urged them to educate their daughters so that they could reach heights in their lives.

The Women Wing of Jammu Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) convened a day long convention on the occasion of International Women’s Day at its party headquarters.

Anita Thakur, JKNPP general secretary chaired the convention wherein women activists expressed anguish over the police atrocities on them and demanded the dismissal of all the police officers who were involved in assault on Anita Thakur that took place last year.

The State unit of National Federation of Indian Women organized a massive meeting to observe the International Women’s Day. The meeting was presided over by Sushila Jamwal, president. Women activists of the federation from various fields participated in the meeting.

While addressing the meeting, Sushila Jamwal, Shamim Bagum, Nirmal Rattan and Shezadi Gill urged upon the women folk to get united under the banner of Federation to launch struggle for their rights. Com. Gafoor Dar and Com. Ashwani Pradhan, veteran trade union leaders also spoke on the occasion.

Punjab Technical University (PTU) celebrated International Women’s Day at 18 locations across Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh wherein thousands of students participated in rallies, candle march and cultural programmes.

Softlab Computer Institute, Maya Infotech and Satyam Institute of Hotel Management, the learning centres of PTU organized a programme at Govt College of Education, Canal Road. Rita Jatinder, social activist was the chief guest, while Principal of the college Prof. M L Parwana was the guest of honour. During the programme, a documentary on women was screened. Later, students carrying placards took out a rally.

PTU also organized a function at GGHSS Mubarak Mandi, which was presided by Principal Shashi Jamwal. Another function was organized at Luthra College of Education wherein a candle march was taken out by students from Bohri to Gole Pulli.

A two-day workshop on "Contraceptive Update" was inaugurated in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SMGS Hospital on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

K B Jandial, secretary Health and Medical Education was the chief guest on the occasion. Dr. Rajinder Singh, Principal and Dean GMC Jammu and Dr. Hamid, director RCH and Women Welfare were also present during the inaugural function. During the workshop, Prof. Sunita Mittal and Dr. Vatsala Dadhwal from AIIMS New Delhi were the resource persons for the workshop.

The NSS unit of Shivalik College of Education, Udhampur organized a day long interaction and extension lecture meet on the theme "Women’s Education and Societal Development" on Women’s Day in college auditorium, here today.

Prof. Jasbir Singh, NSS Coordinator JU was the chief guest, while Dr. Vishav Raksha from Deptt of Sociology, JU was the guest of honour.

R S College of Education, Janglote organized an essay competition on the topic "Women’s Day" to observe International Women’s Day. The NSS unit of the college had organized the competition. K K Bakshi, college chairman and S Jag Mohan Singh, Principal were also present during the event.

The NSS unit of Cosmic College of Education, Lakhanpur also organized a function to observe the Women’s Day. Minister for Transport Punjab Govt, Master Mohan Lal presided over the occasion. College chairman Swami Parmanand Saraswati was also present.

In K C College of Education, Muthi, the NSS wing held a programme on the occasion of Women’s Day. Prof. Sham Singh, Principal K C Law College was the chief guest of the programme, while Prof. Shamima Bano, Principal presided over.

The Women Studies Centre, Govt. College for Women (GCW) Gandhi Nagar organized a series of competitions on International Women’s Day in college premises.

The competitions included poster-making, slogan and essay-writing. The theme of the competitions was "Shades of Women".

A function was also held in Tagore College of Education, Akalpur" to observe Women’s Day. A debate was held on the topic "Role of Education in Empowering Women" wherein 12 students participated. Anu Sharma, Bharti Jain and Naresh Kumari were adjudged first, second and third respectively in the competition.

The NSS unit of Ramisht College of Education, Basohli organized a symposium on the topic "Role of Women in Society" on International Women’s Day.

Lalita Vaid, Zonal Educational Officer Basohli inaugurated, while Krishan Kanta, Headmistress GHS Basohli chaired it. The programme concluded with vote of thanks by Principal Dr. Mohani Sawhney.

A programme was also organized in KCS College of Education, Paloura to observe Women’s Day. The NSS unit of the college organized a health camp for women of nearby slum areas. Mrs. U S Chaudhri, president Kalamkari Society and Mrs. P Chaudhri, chairperson of the society were the chief guests on the occasion.

A debate competition on the topic "Women Empowerment" was organized in Lal Bahadur Shastri College of Education, Kathua to observe International Women’s Day. MLA Basohli, Kanta Andotra was the chief guest on the occasion.

Dharamvir, Savita Kumari and Neelam Jha were declared as first, second and third respectively in the debate competition.

A debate competition was also held in B V S M College of Education, Tarore to observe the International Women’s Day. The NSS volunteers of the college had organized the competition.

An impressive function was organized in Chenab College of Education to observe the Women’s Day. R S Chib, chairman of the college was the chief guest on the occasion.

Harpreet Kour, Shahana and Gheesa Ram Nai were adjudged as the first three winners respectively in the event. College chairman was the chief guest, while principal, staff members and students attended the programme.

A function was organized in the office premises of Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Gandhi Nagar to observe International Women’s Day. Over two hundred Anganwari workers and women of the locality participated in the event. A colourful programme was also presented by the women on the occasion. Mrs. Trishla, CDPO presided over the function.

Jammu Rural Bank and Nirmal Mata Health Centre jointly organized a programme at its Akalpur centre, here today. The women from more than 15 villages of Marh block gathered on the occasion and observed International Women’s Day.

O P Sharma, chairman JRB was the chief guest, while Fr. Ivan Preira, Jammu Srinagar Vicar General was also present. International Women’s Day was also observed at Group Centre Bantalab, here today. Mrs. Pratibha Mahajan, senior advocate was the chief guest, while another senior advocate Ramesh Arora was the guest of honour. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks by Addl IGP Y K Mathur.

Saroori pays surprise visit to exam centres

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Minister of State for School Education G M Saroori, accompanied by Prof N A Ganai, chairman and Dr Veena Rajput, secretary, Board of School Education, paid a surprise visit to examination centres of Class 12th (regular), session 2008, today.

Prof Ganai briefed the Minister about necessary arrangements having been made for holding free and fair examination of 12th class in which 38,472 students are appearing, for which BOSE has constituted 385 examination centres of which 91 were classified as sensitive centres across Jammu province.

The superintendents of examination centres were directed by the Minister not to allow any mobile phone by an examinee of supervisory staff in and around examination hall during exam hours. He issued on spot directions to the supervisory staff to remain alert and vigilant and ensure copying free examination.

He appealed to all sections of the society to assist and co-operate for ensuring copying free examination. After inspection of the centres the Minister expressed satisfaction over necessary arrangements having been made and appreciated the efforts of Board Of School Education. The Minister also applauded the role of Directorate of School Education and law and order enforcing agencies for making this herculean exercise a great success.

Pir Panchal’s plea to Governor

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Pir Panchal has suggested that the Sharda University be set up some where in Anantnag district where a lot of land is available.

In a meeting here, today, the organization chief, Ramesh Hangloo said that some Kashmiri Pandits in Qazigund belt have identified the land on Jammu, Srinagar National Highway.

He said the proposal was discussed with the office bearers of the Organization as well. Some KP overseas organizations have also assured to make liberal donations for this purpose, he added.

Addressing the meeting, Ramesh Hangloo appealed the State Governor, Lt Gen (retd) S K Sinha to take the KP leadership including the social and voluntary organizations into confidence before selection of the site. He said the site on National Highway across the Jawahar Tunnel can be an idle place for setting up of the University. Some KP families living in the vicinity of Qazigund have informed him that about 200 kanals of land are available in the area for setting up of the University, he added.

The meeting expressed the hope that the Governor will take the suggestion into consideration before taking a final decision regarding the selection of the land.

AJSP highlights problems of Surankote

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: The Awami Jan Shakti Party (AJSP) today highlighted various problems being faced by the people of Surankote and also demanded Government Degree College there.

Addressing the mediapersons, Sarfraz Ahmed, AJSP State secretary highlighted that people of Surankote and its adjoining areas have suffered a lot due to snow avalanche and they were still disconnected from the city.

He criticized the State Government for ignoring the poor masses who were suffering for want of basic commodities. Sarfraz alleged that there was acute shortage of Kerosene oil and ration and due to snow dealers were unable to provide basic quota to the affected people. He appealed the State Government to take necessary steps and provide basic commodities to the affected people of Bafliaz, Fazlabad and Chandi Marh.

He further said that after 60 years of independence, the people of Fazlabad area have no road connectivity and promises made by leaders have remained unfilled.

However, he also demanded Degree College at Surankote keeping in view that there were six higher secondaries around the tehsil. He said that students from Surankote and adjoining areas have to travel 60 kms for getting higher education.

Among others present in the conference included Ghulam Nabi Khan, Chain Singh Rakhwal, Om Raj Bhalla, Anand Parkash and Abdul Rahim Rather.

Peer chairs Education officers meeting

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: The Secretary Education, G A Peer has laid special emphasis on opening of K G classes in all the schools and their immediate integration with ECC (Early Childhood Care), in collaboration with ICDS, opening of KGBVs (Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas) and immediate sanction of construction component. He also stressed on thorough review mid-day meals programme and implementation of schemes with regard to NPEGEL.

Mr Peer was addressing a meeting of officers of Jammu Division Education Department in the Office of Directorate of School Education here, today.

The meeting among others was attended by Showkat Mir and Anoop Kannav special secretaries to Education Department. The welcome address was made by Director of School Education, A K Raina.

Mr Peer also spoke about the role of ZEOs as basic unit of Education Planning, the preparation of data banks, the requirement of monitoring and inspection and the involvement of all the entities of educational administration to obtain results in timebound manner.

The other demands in the meeting discussed included timely regularisation of RETs, provision of books to school children, distribution of uniforms among children, upgradation of primary schools.

National Mazdoor Conference highlights demands

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: National Mazdoor Conference president Subash Shastri has appealed the Chief Minister to release the installment of DA in favour of the pensioners and employees of State Government.

Shastri also demanded early revival of LTC, Bonus, disturbed area allowance, declaring Srinagar and Jammu as B-1 cities, regularization of services of daily wagers besides enhancement of their wages to Rs 120 per day, as also release of COLA installments to PSU employees. Shastri hoped that J&K would be the first State to implement 6th pay Commission with effect from January 2006 and recommendations by ending this month. He also hailed the decision of Union Cabinet to release 6% DA to employees and pensioners and called it as employees decision of central Government.

Non Camp delegation calls on Relief Commissioner

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: A delegation of Non Camp Welfare Union led by D N Kissu its chairman called on Relief Commissioner Vinod Koul and apprised him of the problems being faced by the non camp migrants.

As per a release, the delegation informed Mr Koul that displaced Pandits are not in a position to pay the exhorbitant rent. Mr Kissu said that some non camp families who have no source of income except the cash relief are facing many economic hardships and such families be immediately considered for the allotment of quarters as is being done for the camp people.

The Relief Commissioner assured the delegation that their demands will be considered.

The delegation also demanded construction of community hall at Durga Nagar on priority basis.

The other members of the delegation included Karan Choudhary, Prof Girdhari Lal Koul and Moti Lal Saraf.

2 days workshop on higher education

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu Mar 8: Minister for Higher Education Gulchain Singh Charak has inaugurated 2- days workshop on preparing an Action Plan for academic excellence in higher education at GGM Science college here today.

The workshop will discuss issues relating to four broader areas viz.- Physical infrastructure, Academic issues, Administrative setup and future planning.

The participants in the workshop have been drawn from University of Jammu and various degree colleges of Jammu division besides renowned academics and educational administrators of the State. Among the prominent academicians are former Vice Chancellor of Jammu University Prof. M.R Puri, Prof. J.R Rathore, Prof. A.N Sadhu, Prof. L.K Mangotra, Prof. Indira Rathore and Prof. Vijay Kotwal.

Mr. Charak said that the workshop was an important platform to discuss education related matters and evolve strategy to reform the sector for best interests of pupil and the State.

Free medical camp today

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: A free medical camp on vascular diseases is being organised by Dr Gurjeet Singh and Dr Arvind Kohli on Sunday.

The camp, which will start in the morning, is being held at Jammu Point, Canal Road.

Free consultation will be give of use of laser, pneumatic compressor device, Plethysmography in patients of diabetic foot, venus disorders and arterial problems.

Work on road connecting Marh, Balwal blocks takes off

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu, Mar 8: Work on a significant road project connecting two major Blocks Marh and Balwal, located on the western suburbs of Jammu city was today launched in presence of the Minister for Rural Development Mula Ram. The 2.2 KM link road connecting Sangrampur area in Marh Block to Patoli in Balwal block has been taken up under flagship Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana.

Likely to be completed in Six months, the road would cost an amount of Rs 35 lakh. The new link would be an addition to already under execution Rs 70 Lakh connectivity network in the area proposed to connect Tari with Nagbani and further ahead to reach main road leading to border town Akhnoor, said the Minister for Rural Development.

Bunty addresses youth NC workers

Excelsior Correspondent

KATHUA, Mar 8: Provincial president, Youth National Conference, Surinder Singh Bunty addressed a meeting of YNC workers , here today.

Addressing the meeting, Surinder Singh Bunty called upon the youth wing of the party to be prepared for the ensuing Assembly elections, which could be held at any time.

He said the party president has started mass contact programme and urged the youth to play their pivotal role in it.

Among others, who addressed the YNC workers’ meet included Peer Mukhtyar, Vishal Salgotra, Pradeep Kesar, Suresh, Shakeel Ahmed Tony, Ravi Sharma, Ayub Sharma, Ayub Malik and Sanjeev Mahajan.

Meledy Pharma assures employment to locals

Excelsior Correspondent

Jammu Mar 8: Minister for Labour and Employment Pandit Mangat Ram Sharma has underscored the need for creation of protective and conducive atmosphere for safety of workers in industrial areas.

Speaking after launching 37th National Safety Week for workers from Indian Oil Branch Bari Brahamana Jammu today, the Minister stressed upon industrial unit holders to make all precautionary measures for workers in the factories.

Minister for Industries and Commerce Nawang Rigzin Jora, Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce B. L. Nimesh, Labour Commissioner Prithpal Singh Betab, Plant Manager Indian Oil Branch Jammu Nahruji Tundop and other senior officers of Labour Department and Indian Oil Corporation were present.

On the occasion mock drill, firefighting and other sensitization operations were exhibited by the auxiliary, rescue, fire service, communication and security teams of the company.

Minister for Health and Medical Education alongwith Minister for Industries and Commerce also visited Meledy Pharmaceuticals Bari Brahmana and went round various units of the factory which started its functioning in Jammu from 2004 and provides employment to over 300 skilled and unskilled persons of the state.

Chairman, Meledy Pharmaceuticals Sami Khateeb in his welcome address threw light on various medicines preparation prepared in the factory for sale not only in country but on international level. He said that company is considering to provide more job opportunities to the educated unemployed youth of the state. He urged for winding back of excise reduction on industrialization of Jammu and Kashmir. Principal Secretary Industries and Commerce, Vice Chairman Meledy Pharmaceuticals Sahir Khateeb, President and General Secretary SIDCO Bari Brahmana, industrial unit holders of the area and prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

Take benefit of centrally sponsored schemes: Lal Singh

Excelsior Correspondent

Reasi, Mar 8: Senior Congress leader and Member Parliament Doda-Udhampur Ch Lal Singh today exhorted the people to take benefit of the centrally sponsored schemes and also cautioned them not sell their right to vote for petty gains but vote only those who work for them and for their development.

Addressing a well attended public meeting held in Reasi town here today, the Congress MP highlight the achievements accomplished by the Congress Government.

Referring to the demands projected by the speakers from far remote areas like Arnas, Pouni and the surrounding villages of the Reasi Township, the Congress MP assured that he will take up their issues with the concerned quarters and seek their redressal at earliest. He asked the people to take benefit of the centrally sponsored schemes to improve the economy of the area and to eradicate the unemployment. He regretted "my constituency is so vast that despite my hectic touring many areas are left un touched so I apologize from all those and ask them to communicate their problems at such events held occasionally."

Taking strong notice of the luring of the younger generation towards western culture, Lal Singh said, "This not only has degraded our coming generations but also has hit the traditional cultural values.’ He asked the people to refrain from Alcohol and other evil habit to get a moral society.

Earlier locals speakers highlighting their demands like restoration of the heritage and historical building in Reasi, better road networking in far flung areas, health care, communication and regular power supply in higher reaches where security of people is at risk in the turmoil hit State. A series of deputations of people called upon the visiting Congress MP which apprised him with their grievances and sought redressal of their long pending demands.

Bhupinder Singh president Mazdoor and Pithoo Union Katra, Capt. (Retd) K Singh and local congress cadre also was present in this public meeting at Reasi.

Ex-Policemen League discusses demands

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Monthly meeting of ex-Police Persons League of Jammu district, presided over by Chirag Din Choudhary, SSP (retd) was held here today.

Jammu district league president, K S Sambyal, DySP (retd) conducted the meeting wherein a number of issues concerning the welfare measures recently discussed with the Director General of Police were discussed.

The meeting decided to take up matter regarding welfare of ex-Police persons with the J&K Chief Minister for revival of welfare scheme of 1999 and also press for construction of League office in Jammu. A general body meeting of all ranks retired personnel is being held at Jammu shortly.

The meeting was attended, among others, by PR Sharma (retd SP), Hari Chand Bhagat, Sagra Singh Jamwal, Vishu Pal Gupta, Inder Mohan Bakshi, P.K Bali, Man Mohan Bali, Bagh Ram, Surjit Singh, Abdul Latif Malik, Yoginder Singh Jamwal, Basant Singh Manhas, Mani Ram, Sat Paul Sharma.

Lions Clubs International holds Region Conference

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: Lions Clubs International organised its Region Conference today under the chairmanship of Sanjeev Soni, Region Chairman.

The meeting was attended by all the Presidents and other office bearers of the clubs who submitted their activity reports on various service projects conducted by them during the year 2007-08.

The compiled report was presented by Sanjeev Soni to the District Governor, Jaswinder Pal Singh.

Prominent among others who attended the meeting were Navneet Seth, Rajeev Kukreja, JB Singh Chowdhary, Sanjay Mahajan, Partap Mahajan, Sonam Nabroo, Jagjit Singh Arjot, Inderpal Singh and Neeraj Tandon alongwith past district governors of the Lions Club.

Earlier, Sanjay Nagpal, President, Lions Clubs, Jammu who was also convenor of the Conference, delivered the welcome address.

Meeting begun with invocation read by Arushi Mahajan.

Rajesh Gupta presented the vote of thanks.