MKCBT Award conferred upon 21 college teachers
Farooq admits steep decline in educational standards

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Former Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) patron, Dr. Farooq ....more

KU declares result
in record time

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: University of Kashmir declared the result of B.AB.Sc/B.Com. Ist year, Annual Examination in a record time. The main Examination was ......more

Nearly 70 workers resume duty
Police raids SRTC

leaders’ houses, 5
held; strike on

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: While the employees and workers of the J&K State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) have resolved to continue their strike ....more

State CPI-M continues
its 8th conference

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The delegate session of 8th State conference of J&K State Committee of CPI-M continued on the second day today, which was ....more

Medical employees
continue agitation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The ongoing struggle of consolidated, contractual as well as adhoc employees of Government Medical College .....more

line

Jammu & Kashmir

First time advanced gynae
live workshop conducted

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: For the first time in the history of Indian Menopause Society, an Advance-Live Interactive Gynaecological Operative Workshop was organised on last day of 13th Annual Conference of .....more

Brahman Sabha opposes
caste based reservation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, March 16: Dogra Brahman Pratinidhi Sabha has strongly opposed the caste based reservation in all the fields. In a meeting of the Sabha members held at Manav Kalyan Ashram, Suanjana ......more

Khadi, village industries
possess great potential
of employment: Mangat

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma while addressing ......more

 

EDB Officers’ Association warns agitation........

Isolate those dividing people on religion basis: Farooq..........

BJP urges Government to formulate youth policy............

Rajput Sabha approves various proposals............

300 MW power project on river Ujjh in offing: Babu..........

Company to focus on PSU for retirement plan
MNYL to start ‘Rural Op’ in Pb, Haryana; may enter J&K shortly.............

Handicrafts employees reconstitute body........

Joint Coordination Comm of JMRA, KMRA formed..........

Shiv Jee Mandir Committee Handwara constituted.........

PK stages demonstration against Yasin Malik..........

Gujjar & Bakarwal conference held .........

Develop civic facilities in Kalakote.............

Slathia lambasts coalition Govt .......

AISF elects unit for Govt Polytechnic........

KEEWA elects new body, demands reorganization of PDD, PDC..........

Murti Pratishthan of Shri Reshi Peer held.............

NFIW for quota to women in State Assembly ....

JKAP IG inspects bns in Rajouri, Poonch......

MKCBT Award conferred upon 21 college teachers
Farooq admits steep decline in educational standards

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Former Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) patron, Dr. Farooq Abdullah today candidly admitted that educational set up in the entire State has been lying in sorry state of affairs and also tendered apology in this behalf.

Dr. Abdullah was speaking during a function organized at Brig. Rajinder Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu (JU), wherein ‘Master Karam Chand Best Teacher Award-2008’ were conferred upon 21 college teachers of the State. He was chief guest on the occasion, while MLC Devinder Singh Rana was the guest of honour.

He blamed poor education policy adopted by sucessive governments in the State for education debacle. He held politicians largely responsible for the debacle, as according to him, they got adjusted incapable and inefficient teachers in the Education Department, which resulted in decline of educational standard. He also held teachers equally repsonsible.

He also admitted it openly that permission for the opening of most of the B.Ed Colleges in the State was granted in lieu of huge sum of money and the practice was still going unabated.

Dr. Abdullah also took a dig at Congress led State Government for its mindless expansion of education. He said, "This Government has given too many colleges without taking care of minimum requirements to run those institutions. Similarly, lot many announcements have also been made for the upgradation of several schools but without any vision and policy".

Meanwhile, he saw a ray of hope in the young and bright students and expressed, "Vision of our younger generation is very clear and progressive, as they want to bury petty issues for the sake of advancement and development and it would be failure of State, if we will not be able to meet their aspirations".

He urged the teachers to come forward and assume greater responsibilities for shaping future of the nation and also to restore their lost glory. However, he congratulated all the award winners and also the trust for organizing such a function.

Earlier, he conferred Best Teacher Awards upon Prof. Ajay Kotwal (GGM Science College), Prof. A R Ganai (GCW Anantnag), Prof. Babu Ram (GDC Doda), Dr. Gitanjali A Rana (GCW Gandhi Nagar), Prof. G Q Sheikh (B.Ed College Jammu), Prof. Jyoti Mahajan (GCET Jammu), Prof. Jyoti Parihar (GDC Kishtwar), Prof. Kailash Mehra (MAM College), Prof. Kaushal Mangotra (GDC Bhaderwah), Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Bhat (GDC (Boys) Anantnag), Prof. Mohd Asraf Shah (ASC Srinagar), Prof. Muzafar Ahmed Khan (GCW Srinagar). Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Wazir (B.Ed College Srinagar), Prof. Seema Bashir (Islamia College Srinagar), Prof. M S Pathania (GCW Parade), Prof. Raj Shree Dhar (GCW Udhampur), Prof. S P Sharma (MAM College), Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Raina (GDC Thannamandi), Prof. T R Sharma (GDC Kathua), Prof. Veena Pandita (GGM Sc College (E)) and Prof. Shabbir Hussain Shah (GDC Poonch).

On the occasion, he also presented Prof. Sham Lal Green Award to S. Manjeet Singh Chopra for his contribution in preserving environment while, Eminent Educationist Awards were given to Director School Education Jammu, A K Raina and Prof. Zahoor-ud-din.

Various college principals including Prof. G L Thapa, Prof. Kiran Bakshi, Prof. G L Sharma, Prof. M S Baloria and Prof. Bhopinder Singh were also honoured.

Earlier, Dr. Nutan K Resutra, trustee of Karam Vidya Education Trust, which had organized the ceremony, presented the welcome address and threw light on the life and contributions in the field of education of Master Karam Chand, in whose memory the award was constituted. Several colourful items were also presented on the occasion.

KU declares result in record time

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: University of Kashmir declared the result of B.AB.Sc/B.Com. Ist year, Annual Examination in a record time. The main Examination was conducted from December 2007, January 2008 and again in the month of February, 2008 for candidates who missed their examination due to heavy snow fall or due to any other reason.

In all 34780 candidates appeared in the examination, out of which 14050 candidates passed amounting to a pass percentage of 40.41. This time University adopted an innovative way for declaring the results. The announcement for the result was made in the evening of 15-3-2008 and the result was made available through University Website as well as the Mobile Service of BSNL & Airtel from 8.00 pm on the said date.

This innovative approach has made the printed copy of the result gazettes irrelevant. All the candidates could access their result through University website or through Mobile Service from their homes conveniently. They were not made to travel from far flung areas to reach the degree colleges and remain in long queues for verifying their results

Nearly 70 workers resume duty
Police raids SRTC leaders’ houses, 5 held; strike on

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: While the employees and workers of the J&K State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) have resolved to continue their strike despite final warning by the Transport authorities, nearly 70 workers were reported to have resumed their duty today fearing their termination tomorrow.

The police raided the houses of five leaders of the SRTC Employees Union last mid night and arrested them. Identified as Chairman, Shakeel Ahmed Kuchey, president Ashok Mehra, vice president Mohd Amin from Srinagar, Dev Raj Bali and Mohd Ashraf both secretaries, they were picked up by police at about 12.30 midnight and taken to Trikuta Nagar police station.

A spokesman of the Union said that these leaders were arrested at the behest of the Transport Minister to damage the employees cause. Since some employees had allegedly caused damage to about 40 parked SRTC buses in the Transport Yard at Railway Station here, the management lodged a police complaint. The police alleged that these buses were damaged after they were instigated by the Union leaders. A case was registered them. However, two leaders including Mohd Ashraf from Srinagar and Dev Raj Bali were released late in the evening while three others were still in custody.

Managing Director of the SRTC, Mr Lone however, claimed that nearly seventy workers have resumed their duty in Jammu and some more are likely to join on Monday. He said a few of them who joined are union leaders while no one has yet resumed duty in Srinagar. He said Management would give them tomorrow’s time to change their rigid decision. Their salaries are already lying with disbursing officers and they will get their COLA with next months salary. The Government has also assured them regular salary in future and after this much their strike was not justified.

He said the Management plied nine buses on Jammu -Srinagar and six on Jammu-Katra routes today. It is major breakthrough and from tomorrow buses on inter-state routes will also be operated.

However, the Corporation workers in Jammu and Srinagar continued their strike today and its 98 % fleet remained off the road. The termination operation may be delayed by the Management for a day or two in view of the response of employees as many of made up their mind to resume duty.

Meanwhile, All Public Sector Employees and Workers Federation ( Jammu) has urged the Transport authorities to release salary of the agitating workers and accept their genuine and justified demands.

State CPI-M continues its 8th conference

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The delegate session of 8th State conference of J&K State Committee of CPI-M continued on the second day today, which was addressed by senior CPI(M) leaders from the State and the Centre.

Mohd Salim, MP and Deputy Leader of CPI-M in Lok Sabha, in his address while proclaiming to raise voice and fight for genuine rights of the people of the State, appealed the Prime Minister to take immediate and concrete steps to reduce the miseries faced by people of Jammu and Kashmir State.

Various resolutions were adopted and passed on the second day of the conference. Regarding resolutions on agriculture, the party demanded waiver of loan to horticulture growers; Extension of Crop Insurance Scheme to cover all agricultural crops; and Provision of loan facilities to agriculture growers.

Through yet another resolution the CPI-M demanded filling up of vacant posts in various Government departments at an earliest; Release of wages of daily wagers; Regularization of these workers on adhoc or contractual basis; and provision of unemployment allowance to unemployed youth.

Other resolutions adopted and passed in the delegate session pertained to reduction in Human Rights Violations as also on Trade Union Rights demanding implementation of all labour laws and an end to police excesses on peaceful trade union agitations.

Medical employees continue agitation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The ongoing struggle of consolidated, contractual as well as adhoc employees of Government Medical College continued for the 5th day today.

The agitating employees under the banner of Government Medical College Employees Association today staged a demonstration and raised anti Government sloagans in the premises of GMC.

Speaking on the occassion, their leader Garu Ram disclosed that if Government fails to fulfill the demands they will seek help from permanent employees to come out and join the struggle.

Meanwhile the agitators appealed the trade unions to come forward and support their demands.

Others who spoke on the occassion were Bua Ditta, Rakesh Kumar, Gurvinder Kaur, Yog Raj, Red Rose Singh and Radha Rathore.

First time advanced gynae live workshop conducted

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: For the first time in the history of Indian Menopause Society, an Advance-Live Interactive Gynaecological Operative Workshop was organised on last day of 13th Annual Conference of IMS (IMSCON-08) today.

First two days of the conference were devoted to extensive interaction on different disciplines involved in menopausal care and 14 research papers all over the country were presented in Government Medical College, Jammu.

Aim of the conference and workshop, which was attended by more than 100 faculty members and 400 delegates across the country, was to impart skills to all the doctors of different disciplines to deliver a comprehensive medical and surgical care to women with age of 40 plus, Dr Sudhaa Sharma, organising secretary, IMSCON-08, said.

International expert surgeons including Dr H P Pattnaik from Cuttack, Dr Vinit Mishra from Ahmedabad and Dr P C Mahapatra from Bhubaneswar conducted live advance gynaecological surgeries like non-decent-hysterectomy, surgery for stress urinary incontinence (a common problem in 40 plus women) and suture less hysterectomy respectively with latest and advanced technologies clearly convincing numerous benefits over conventional surgeries.

Three day IMSCON-08 was attended by eminent doctors from different specialities across the country. More than 350 delegates had registered themselves for the conference.

Dr Sudhaa Sharma, organising secretary, has said the mission of IMS is to promote care to menopausal women, which is being achieved by public awareness programme, education of people and health care professionals, exchange of present knowledge and on-line research.

Brahman Sabha opposes caste based reservation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, March 16: Dogra Brahman Pratinidhi Sabha has strongly opposed the caste based reservation in all the fields.

In a meeting of the Sabha members held at Manav Kalyan Ashram, Suanjana under the chairmanship of Sarpanch Satpal, the members of surrounding Tawi island villages expressed their concern over the issue.

They demanded that reservation should be on the economic status of the families from all the communities/ castes. Prominent among those present included Dev raj Baru, Shakti Dutt Sharma, Pt Virender Mohan, Mohan Lal, Dev raj Khajuria, R D Sharma, Bhushan Sharma and Sanjeev Kumar.

Khadi, village industries possess great
potential of employment: Mangat

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma while addressing 5- days Khadi Gramaodyog Exhibition at Kathua today said that the answer to unemployment problems was in universalization industrial development in the State, adding that Khadi and Village Industries possessed great potential for generating employment.

Referring to the activities of Khadi and Village Industries Board, he said, "it provides avenues to the entrepreneurs to venture into the production of items having reasonable marketing potential".

Mr. Sharma asked the people to take maximum benefit from KVIB schemes for their economic upliftment and generating remunerative self employment scheme.

MLA, Bani, Prem Sagar Aziz in his address stressed on mass awareness about KVIB schemes. He also exhorted for promoting Basohli paintings and Pashmina shawls. Mr. Aziz asked the KVIB authorities to organize such exhibitions in remote area of Bani and Basohli.

Member All India KVIB, G.N. Naik and Subash Sharma also addressed the function.

Secretary KVIB, R.C. Sharma in his welcome address said that artisans of Kathua especially Basohli and Hiranagar were undoubtedly skilled in handloom and handicraft but the skill was hardly put to proper economic use till the recent past. The KVIB has been organizing fairs and exhibitions to promote local entrepreneurs and especially these district level, exhibitions are the dawn of commercial viability of traditional products in today’s market.

He said 27 stalls belonging to various trades and societies were set up at KVIB exhibition. He said stalls had stock of indigenous products side by side with modern day items from different weaves, electronic goods readymade garments, designed glasses, dry flowers decorative pieces, ready made steel grills, fans and coolers were the main attraction of the exhibition.

Later the Minister distributed trophies, mementoes and certificates among the participants who were adjudge first, second and third in displaying their products.

Addressing the gathering Dy. Chairman Legislative Council Arvinder Singh Micky said that Government was making every effort to mitigate the problems of the people. He highlighted the achievements registered by Azad led government during last over two and half years.

EDB Officers’ Association warns agitation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Ellaquai Dehati Bank (EDB) Officers Association has expressed its deep concern over the negative approach of the management the Bank in redressing the long pending demands of the employees.

As per a release, the Association held series of meetings at Jammu, Anantnag, Pulwama and Srinagar in which the role of management was criticized.

The Association warned to launch agitation in case the demands were not solved immediately and also gave a call of total strike on March 31 in support of their demands.

The Association is demanding posting of sufficient staff in all branches, especially in Kashmir Valley and appointment of contractual employees on the pattern of State Bank of India (SBI) to meet the shortage.

It, while demanding implementation of transfer policy urged the Government to desist from using this policy as a tool for victimization.

The other demands included granting of promotions as per promotion policy, reversal of wage cuts, stoppage of harassment, taking the Association into confidence for making further expansion in the Bank and up-to-date reconciliation of Provident Fund of members pending for last two decades..

Isolate those dividing people on religion basis: Farooq

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Former Chief Minister and National Conference patron Dr Farooq Abdullah today said that the elements who want to divide the State in general and nation in particular on the basis of religion and caste should be isolated.

Addressing a function organised by the Hindu Shiv Sena, J&K here this afternoon, he said "those playing politics on religion should rise above the petty considerations and work towards a society which is based on secularism, brotherhood, co-existence and harmony with the sole objective of serving the humanity".

"The politicians who are dividing the people on religious lines for their petty political interests are a danger to the State and the nation", he said.

Taking a dig at main rival party People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for accusing him of the Muslim bashings, the National Conference patron said that they (PDP leadership) cannot digest the secular credentials of National Conference and for the petty politics were misleading the people on religionism.

Making a clarion call to all the political and social organisations to stop spreading hatred on the basis of religion and rather work for the unity among, he said this was imperative to leave the other prosperous nations of the world behind in every sphere.

Launching scathing attack on those indulging in killings of the innocents on the name of Jihad, Dr Abdullah said "no religion advocates killings of innocents and those perpetrating bloodshed and mayhem should realise this and join mainstream to air their grievances and opinion".

Earlier, Dr Abdullah gave away awards for honesty, bravery and best services. Among the awardees were eight prominent doctors, three politicians, 18 police officers and 15 media personalities.

He also awarded Dr Seema Rani Manhas, whose book titled "Floating Change" was also released on the occasion and Kusam Tikku, an announcer.

Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Prof Amitabh Mattoo, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) Mayor Kavinder Gupta, social worker Vijay Lakshmi Dutta and Krishan Manhas, president Hindu Shiv Sena, J&K also spoke on the occasion.

Earlier in the day, Dr Abdullah visited the newly constructed building for Kashmiri Migrants at Muthi and interacted with the inhabitants of the camp. He asserted that even the concrete building constructed by the Government is not the end of the miseries suffered by Kashmiri migrants.

BJP urges Government to formulate youth policy

Excelsior Correspondent

KISHTWAR, Mar 16: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kishtwar while expressing grave concern over the apathy of the State Government towards the hapless people living in Kishtwar district urged the Government to frame a concrete youth policy so that opportunities will be provided to all people in earning their livelihood.

The senior party leader, Anil Parihar while addressing Party activists alleged that in the recent recruitments made in the district preference was given to the candidates of a particular community.

Expressing concern over non payment of wages to the VDCs and SPOs for months together, he demanded that the same be released at an earliest.

The Party has already submitted a memorandum to Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar in this regard. Those who attended the meeting included Ishtiyaq Wani, Basant Raj, Girdhari Lal, Des Raj Parihar, Hans Raj, Ramesh Sharma, Mohan Balraj, Deepak Sharma and Jugal Parihar.

Rajput Sabha approves various proposals

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: A working committee meeting of Shri Amar Kshatriya Rajput Sabha, J&K, Jammu, was held at Raj Tilak Road under the presidentship of Narayan Singh, in which all the WC members of Sabha participated.

Agenda of the meeting was to approve proposed budget estimates for the year 2008-09 and income and expenditure for the year 2007-08; Collection of funds for Charitable Educational Trust; Collection of Rajsaptah subscription; and Organizational matters.

Working committee members unanimously supported the agenda points and assured the president all sorts of cooperation to implement agenda points.

Majority of the members were critical of neglecting attitude of State Government with regard to Rajput youth being inducted in Government services. The speakers in the meeting urged the Government to abolish caste based reservations and instead provide Government jobs on merit basis.

Prominent among those present in the meeting who also spoke included were Pavitar Singh Bhardwaj, Dayal Singh Slathia, Maj Gen G S Jamwal,A S Wazir, M S Jamwal, M S Katoch,Pavitar Singh, Jagdish Singh Sangwal, Surinder Singh, Hukum Singh Badhwal, Khajoor Singh, Mrs Kamla Rajput and Mrs Pushpa Didwal.

300 MW power project on river Ujjh in offing: Babu

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: A 300 MW Hydro-electric project will be set up on river Ujjh at Village Panjtirthi, Kathua which will provide employment to 5000 people and give boost to local generation of electricity.

This was informed by Minister of State for Power Babu Singh at a public meeting at Hatli Morh, Kathua. He said that Government has also identified 5000 kanals of land at Kathua for setting up 1000 MW Thermal Power Plant already sanctioned by the Centre which will generate employment for 10,000 people.

Mr. Singh said that the Government led by Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has focused attention on attaining self sufficiency in power generation and full proof monitoring of power distribution for ensuring overall development of the State.

The Minister highlighted the urgent need of tapping the abundant hydro electric potential of the State for achieving self sufficiency and lessening the dependence on the import of power from outside the State. He said that besides there is simultaneous need for branching into alternative energy generation technologies like solar energy, thermal energy, etc.

Mr. Singh informed that apart form mega hydroelectric projects, 28 mini and micro electricity projects are also being set up in different parts of the State. He said that electricity serves as oxygen for various developmental activities the State need to emerge from power crunch to power surplus State for opening new vistas of economic growth and prosperity.

Mr. Singh said that work is also apace for augmenting and updating the infrastructural set up to curb power leakage and power loss at various stages. At the same time fool proof monitoring of power distribution and checking power theft is being done by the present dispensation, he added.

Among others Chief Engineer M&RE Mr. D.S.Pawar, X-En Kathua, senior engineers, officers, panches, sarpances and prominent citizens also attended the function.

Earlier, he also held a public darbar at Kathua and heard the grievance of people.

Company to focus on PSU for retirement plan
MNYL to start ‘Rural Op’ in Pb, Haryana;

may enter J&K shortly

By Gopal Sharma

SHIMLA, Mar 16: With the prime objective to reach up to the 74% population of the country residing in nearly 6.38 lakh villages and over 4000 small towns, Max New York Life (MNYL) Insurance Company, a partner of Max India Ltd has launched its rural operation in Haryana and Punjab states.

Though company has already made its presence in the Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal, yet it is all set to enter these two neighbouring states for the rural operation shortly.

Company’s senior vice president and Head Rural Operations, India R P Singh told at seminar-cum-workshop on "Life Insurance for You and Role of Insurance in Retirement Planning" the other day that Life insurance sector has grown up to 18 % in the country and nearly seventeen private players have achieved a lot in this segment in short span of time. He claimed the company has registered 100 % growth in last two years in the region and with its expansion in northern parts of the country, it hopes to record a good growth in coming years.

Max New York Life will be focusing on nearly 740 million people of India who reside in rural areas and for this the company has devised ‘hub and spoke model’ to cover villages extensively and monitor its operation vigorously from Area office and district headquarters. Elaborating on the model, Mr Singh disclosed that a Hub will be located at district headquarters, each Hub will have 3-4 spokes ( branch offices) and a unit of one Hub and 4 Spokes will cover 5 town market and rural market of 1000 villages. In some areas, spokes will be created in association with local rural banks. The company will also focus on the unattended sectors and believes in creating extensive awareness among the people about the importance of life insurance for the security of their dependents (family). Localized communication mode is being adopted and even literature in regional languages is provided to the people for easy understanding of the concept and plans.

Kennth Sannoo, senior vice president and Head North-East, MNYL disclosed that private players in the insurance sector are investing huge money in India as they find this destination having vast and quick potential to grow. Most of the private players have recorded growth from 80 to 100 % and even more in the last couple of years. Life Insurance has shown a downward trend in last ten months while sixteen other private players have collectively shown a growth of about 82 %. He disclosed that MNYL generated a business of Rs 1490 cr last year in the country and it was expecting over hundred per cent growth this year.

Referring to the importance of life insurance in planning for retirement, Mr Sannoo said according to a survey, about 55 cr workers in the country would be in the age group of 30 to 60 years. Out of total, a major population is working in Public Sector Undertakings and unorganised or the private sector. While Government employees will be enjoying the benefit of pension, those hapless Indian workers in the private sector would definitely be in the dire need of a pension or a sort of security after retirement. The Company has come out with a solution for them so that such workers if live for say twenty or thirty years after their retirement would be able to lead a smooth and happy life. The retirement plan of the company would provide them protection after retirement. He disclosed that a tremendous response of this plan has been received by the Company throughout the country.

P V Subramamium, Head Trainings India stressed the need for planning for retirement and life insurance. He said life insurance was must for everyone for risk management and achieve financial goals. He also referred to the Unit Link plan and Mutual Fund for ensuring better growth and achieve financial goals. He also advised to keep a good track through financial advisors/ managers and maintain a balance between income and the targeted goals.

Handicrafts employees reconstitute body

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: J&K Non Gazetted Handicrafts Employees Association today constituted a fresh executive body folowing the superannuation of its provincial president Anwar Beg.

During a meetng of association held under the chairmanship of Mohammad Ashraf Kamali a new statutary committee of the association was framed which includes Vijay Singh as provincial president from Jammu, Baldev Singh Anand as general secretary and Sudesh Chander Sharma as vice president.

Meanwhile the association demanded for hike in the stipend of trainees of Handicrafts Department at par with their counterparts in All India Handicrafts Department.

Joint Coordination Comm of JMRA, KMRA formed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: A joint Coordination Committee of Jammu Medical Representatives Association (JMRA) and Kashmir Medical Representatives Association (KMRA) was formed in a meeting held today.

The JMRA was represented by its president Dheeraj Bagra, vice president Shiv Kumar Bunty, secretary Anil Gupta and other elected members of the Association.

The KMRA was represented in the meeting by its president Abdul Qayoom, for Srinagar, who was very much enthusiastic about affiliation of Association with North Zone Coordinate Committee. The same feelings were expressed by Sopore district unit president M Y Malik.

The meting took various joint decisions against ethical exploitation of management and the issues concerning welfare of Pharma Sales Representatives. Stress was laid on formation of ethical work culture by JMRA president and vice president about uniform and proper working norms for the cadre, who usually fall victim to the unethical exploitation of managements.

The speakers advised the leaders to become public personalities rather than becoming political personalities.

Over 1000 comrades participated in the meeting held at Patnitop today.

Shiv Jee Mandir Committee Handwara constituted

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The Shiv Jee Mandir Committee Handwara in a meeting here, today nominated its Executive and Advisory Committees.

As per a release, Bhushan Lal Pandita was nominated as president while its other office bearers included Rajinder Raina, vice president, Mahraj Krishen Pandita, general secretary, Ashok Kumar Kaw accountant cum cashier and Chand Ji Pandita as joint secretary.

The other members of the Committee included Moti Lal Raina, Kanya Lal Tiku, Dwarka Nath Raina, Satish Raina, Sanjay Raina, Bansi Lal Kaw, Bhushan Lal Kaw and Mahraj Krishen Raina.

The Advisory Committee comprises of Makhan Lal Kaw, Surinder Pandita, Satish Kumar Garu, Jawahar Lal Raina, Triloki Nath Raina, Avtar Krishen Kaw, Chuni Lal Bhat, Ashok Kumar Moti and Omkar Nath Kaw.

The new committee started its functioning from today.

PK stages demonstration against Yasin Malik

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16:Panun Kashmir (PK) activists held a demonstration at Press Club here , today in protest against the organizers of India Today Conclave held in New Delhi yesterday who had invited the separatist leader Yasin Malik to address it.

The irate PK activists with pla cards in their hands shouted slogans against the Malik and organizers of the conclave. They also criticized the Union Government for arresting the activits of Roots In Kashmir (RIK) at New Delhi yesterday who were protesting outside the venue of the conclave against Mr Malik. and taking them to Chankiyapuri Police Station for launching a protest against Mr Malik.

The speakers also condemned the police action on the agitating RIK activists and alleged that many activists of the organization were also injured in police lathicharge while others were whisked to Chankiya Puri Police Station.

Condemning the Government action, the PK leaders alleged that this way the Union Government was legitimizing the cause of separatists by providing them a platform to launch their vicious campaign against the India and its people.

They warned that PK and other nationalist forces will never allow the separatists like Yasin Malik to become a national hero as he was the brain behind the present separatist movement in Kashmir and killing of four IAF officers and large number of Kashmiri Pandits.

The speakers said Mr Malik has himself admitted this. They warned the Government to desist from providing any leniency to separatists like Malik whose hands are soaked in the blood of innocent people.

The demonstration was addressed by senior P K leaders ,Daya Krishen Koul and Virender Raina.

Later a meeting of the organization was held under the chairmanship of Dr Agnishekhar in which the yesterday’s police action on RIK activists was criticized.

Gujjar & Bakarwal conference held

Excelsior Correspondent

UDHAMPUR, Mar 16 : Minister of State for Revenue and Finance, Aijaz Ahmed Khan has said that political and scheduled tribe reservation to Gujjar and Bakarwals of the Jammu and Kashmir will be put forth to the State Government for early redressal of the grievances and upliftment of the scheduled tribe population of the State who had already suffered a lot and always sight an example of mutual brother hood and communal harmony.

The Minister was addressing one day Gujjar and Bakarwal conference at Battal Ballian near here today.

The prominent people of the scheduled tribe community put forth various demands which included greater reservation, opening of new migratory schools with up gradation of existing educational institutions, employment to educated un-employed youth, adequate arrangements of drinking water, electricity, entry of their pastures at the high altitudes in the revenue record, adequate number of teachers who may migrate along with them and should be from the scheduled tribe community, engagement of the educated youth of the community in the ICDS department by providing them employment as Supervisors, Anganwari workers and Helpers etc.

The Minister gave a patient hearing to their grievances and assured that all out efforts would be made to redress their all genuine grievances at the earliest. The Minister directed the District Development Commissioner, Udhampur to include the deserving families in the BPL list and to revise the Roshni Act cases of the concerned community. The job card under the NREGA scheme be provided to the deserving families, he added. He also asked the DDC to identify the suitable place for the construction of Gujjar Hostel at Chenani which has been already been sanctioned by the Government and sent a proposal to the Government.

The District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, O.P.Kalandria, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Verinder Singh Salathia, Tehsildar Territorial & Settlement, Deputy Superintendent of Police Bodh Raj Mehra, State Secretary of Gujjar and Bakarwal Advisory Board, Ch. Haji Yousf, district president, Ch. Saraj Din, Chief Organizer Haji Salaam and large number of other prominent people from the ST community were present on the occasion.

Develop civic facilities in Kalakote

Kalakote is spread over a vast area which comprises of thousands of people but despite such a vast number of people residing, there are many areas where drinking water supply, electricity, telephone, service, health centers, etc. is a dream. People have to suffer during the rainy and winter seasons as they have to fetch water from bowlies and rivers in many villages like Metka, Treru, Daggal, Chatyar, Bandhari, Jatta, Kurlian etc.

Despite tall claims of rural electrification thousands of people have got no access to electricity. A link road was proposed from Treru to Khawas but nothing has been done in this regard.

Therefore, it is requested to State Govt particularly CM and concerned MLA and MLC to do the needful for the welfare of this rural region. Since India dwells in villages the progress and prosperity cannot be ensured if the rural section of the country is ignored and deprived of such facilities.

Rajesh Kumar Dutta
Metka, Kalakote

Upgrade Primary School Joura Kalan

The boys primary school at Joura Kalan was established in 1965. But to the utter dismay of the residents of the area the school has not been upgraded till now. The sad part of our woes is that schools which were established years after this school, have even been upgraded to Higher Secondary level while as our school has been left out for reasons not known to us.

We request the authorities to kindly upgrade the school to high school level so that hundreds of our boys are benefitted.

Public of Joura Kala
and adjoining villages through Surjeet Singh Panch.

Repair Satwari Gangyal road

Satwari Gangyal road is a vital stretch of National highway which links the state to rest of the country. At many places the road is full of ditches and the surface is rough. Tar and mettalic surface has worn out at many places. Being one of the busiest stretch on the highway this road needs immediate repair so that travelling becomes smooth and safe.

Jasbir Singh
Gangyal, Jammu

Allot funds for Moungri Mela

Funds are needed from Government for the famous 3 days annual Shiv-Parvati Mela Moungri, popularly known as Mongri Mela. The Moungri Mela, apart from being an illustrious platform for demonstrating, preserving and promoting the multifaceted rich cultural heritage, is also a noble symbol of much needed communal brotherhood and unity.

Keeping in view the various aspects and ever increasing popularity of Moungri Mela liberal/special funds be allotted to District Development Commissioner Udhampur/concerned departments, so that the Mela events may be organized in a much better way. The funds, if granted, would boost up the pilgrim-tourism in the beautiful area which has matchless hidden potential in its green bosom anxiously awaiting for the Government’s eye for exploration. Precisely, the Moungri Mela which is held in mid May i.e Ist to 3rd of Jeth, every year should be funded/promoted on Jammu Mela, Sindhu Darshan Mela Leh, Navratra Festival Katra etc Pattern.

Swatantra Dev Kotwal
Advocate, Udhampur

Upgrade Middle School Airwan to high school

Airwan a historical, religious and large habitation in Tehsil Kathua. Besides, it has a population of about ten thousand. Unfortunately the school is not upgraded since it established in 1958.

We request the Govt to kindly upgrade the school to a high school so that it benefits thousands of children in the area.

Public of village Airwan
Kathua

Complete recruitment process of RET in Doda

I want to bring to kind notice of Education Minister, Director School Education Jammu regarding the selection/Recruitment of Rehbar-e-Taleen Teachers (RET) under SSA of the Distt. Doda (Ramban & Kishtwar).

The posts of RET’s have been advertised by the Chief Education Officer Doda vide advertisement Notice No. DSEJ/RET/38-44 dt. 17-07-2007 and CEO/D/21362-64 dt. 14-09-2007. But the recruitment process has not been completed by the CEO Doda till date. The schools are facing acute shortage of the teaching staff by which standard of education is becoming very poor. Moreover the poor educated unemployed youths who have applied in response to these notifications are waiting for appointment orders of the said posts.

We have visited the office of Chief Education Officer Doda several times for requesting him to complete the said selection process at an earliest but no selection list has been issued by the CEO Doda till date. We request the authorities to kindly speed up the process of recruitment of RETs in Doda.

Mohd. Ashraf Khanji
R/o Beoli Doda
On behalf of all aspiring RET Candidates of Distt Doda
(Kishtwar, Ramban)

Speed up work on sewerage in Talab Tillo

Sewerage Deptt has ruined the road from Guest House to Talab Tillo by laying sewerage line. Cutter has been deployed by the Deptt for Excavation, but of no use. It has caused traffic hazards. No water supply and electric poles and Telephones lines disrupted. We the residents of Talab Tillo request the Chief Minister to kindly inspect the site and issue instructions to the concerned Deptt for speedy execution of work.

President
Talab Tillo Association
Hari Nagar Jammu

Slathia lambasts coalition Govt

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former Minister, Surjit Singh Slathia while lambasting the coalition Government in the state alleged that it has no policy and programme to solve the grievances of the people in the State.

Addressing the public meeting at village Than in Vijaypur Constituency today, he said whether it is the issue of unemployment, farmers, pensioners, providing irrigation to farmers, drinking water and power supply the performance of Government was not upto mark.

Alleging that the Government has not fulfilled the aspirations of the people, Mr Salathia wanted to know what happened to huge funds received by it from the Centre.

Blaming coalition for making hollow promises with people, he said there is lot of resentment among the masses against the Government.

He said no developmental works have been taken up in hand in Vijaypur Constituency and the condition of roads was worst and people lack the basic amenities. He also alleged that those people who have a sound financial position are given the benefits of BPL and Indira Awas Yojna.

Expressing serious concern over price rise, he said this Government has totally failed to keep the prices under check and the miseries of people have increased many fold under the present coalition rule.

AISF elects unit for Govt Polytechnic

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: A meeting of Government Polytechnic Jammu students was held today in the All India Students Federation (AISF) office.

In the meeting, the office bearers for the college unit were elected unanimously. Those elected were Kamran Khan (president), Rupinder Singh Rana (sr. vice president), Satish Singh (vice president), Ankur (general secretary), Shashant Munshi (secretary), Rohit Kumar and Yogeshwar Sharma as joint secretaries. Also elected were Vinod Pandita, Udhey Adhotra, Vicky Kumar, Rahul Mangotra as executive members. The meeting was chaired by Com. Vimal Singh Manhas, AISF State president.

KEEWA elects new body, demands
reorganization of PDD, PDC

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Mar 16: Kashmir Electrical Employees and Workers Association (KEEWA) in a meeting here, today held the elections for the state body in which Mushtaq Ahmed Shopiani was elected the new president of the Association.

The outgoing president of the orgnisation, Mir Ghulam Rasool will be the chief patron of the Association. The other members elected included Abdul Ahad Rather as senior vice president, Ghulam Hassan Malik as vice president, Javid Iqbal as general secretary, Nazir Magrey as secretary, Mufti Latif as organizer, Mohammed Javed Shah as publicity secretary and Abdul Khaliq Kakroo as chief advisor.

The elections were held under the supervision of Ali Mohammed Khan, vice president All J&K Low Paid Employees Federation (LPEF). The meeting among others was also attended by outgoing president and general secretary LPEF, Mir Ghulam Rasool, Batwani and Khurshid Kabli, secretary, LPEF.

The meeting demanded reorganization of PDD and PDC, immediate release of 9 percent deputation allowance in favour of employees of PDC, assignment of job as per designation, counting of entire service of workcharge and daily wagers for pensionary benefits, regularisation of daily wagers in PDD and release of their pending wages.

The meeting also demanded release of 6 percent DA, constitution of 6th Pay Commission, transfer of GP Fund balance of employees to newly created districts, deployment of staff in these districts, release of HRA and enhancement of retirement age to 60 years.

Murti Pratishthan of Shri Reshi Peer held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The Murti Pratishthan of Shri Reshi Peer, who is popularly known Peer Pandit Padshah was installed at Reshi Peer Ashram, Suraksha Vihar, Top Paloura today.

The function was presided over by Swami Kumar Ji of Geeta Sat Sangh Ashram, Muthi who also gave a discourse of Shreemad Bhagvat Geeta. He urged the community to launch a crusade against the social evils.

Among the prominent personalities who attended the function to pay their obeisance to revered Peer included Swami Chaman Lal Bamzai of Nand Bab Ashram, Swami Moti Lal Pandita of Sharika Peeth, Dr Phoola Kaul and Mrs Sheela Handoo and Ashok Singh Manhas (corporators).

On the occasion a Maha Yagya was also solemnized and devotees were served prashad after Puranahuti.

NFIW for quota to women in State Assembly

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: The State unit of National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) today demanded 33 per cent reservation for women in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Municipalities and Panchayats.

Addressing a press conference, Sushila Jamwal, president, Shamim Akhtar, vice president and Nirmal Rattan, general secretary of the federation emphasized upon the need for political empowerment of women.

Mrs. Jamwal said, "It is necessary for the country’s development especially in the State where women have suffered due to militancy. She appealed to state leaders to bring in a legislation for ensuring 33 per cent reservation for women in the State Assembly, Municipality and Panchayats.

She said NFIW would mobilize women in all the three regions of the State through various campaigns in support of their demand.

JKAP IG inspects bns in Rajouri, Poonch

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 16: Inspector General of Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police (JKAP), S Owais Ahmad held an extensive inspection of Armed Police deployed in Rajouri-Poonch range.

The IGP stayed with troops for four days holding ‘darbars’ at all stations and interacted with his jawans. He also had a ‘bada khana’ with them. He listened to the grievances of jawans and gave on spot directions for their redressal.

Mr Ahmad visited Poonch, Mendhar, Surankote and Draba in Poonch district and Rajouri, Shahdra Sharief and adjoining area in Rajouri district and inter-acted with troops engaged in anti-militancy operations. He also met DIG Rajouri-Poonch range Prithvi Raj Manhas, SSP Poonch and Rajouri and Vice Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Masud Choudhary.

During his visit, prominent people of Rajouri and Poonch districts called on the IGP Armed and discussed various issues pertaining to relations between civil population and Armed Police. He also visited the sites where new battalions of J&K Armed Police could be located for future.

   



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