Move offices to function from May 5

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, May 3: To finalize darbar move arrangements in the Summer Capital, Chief Secretary B.R. Kundal convened a high level meeting of divisional officers of civil and police departments here today.

Those who attended the meeting include Commissioner/Secretary General Administration Department, Basharat Ahmed, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Mehboob Iqbal, Director Information Zaffar Ahmed IGP Traffic Mohammed Amin Shah, Joint Director Information Kashmir Khursheed Ahmed Geelani, Chief Engineers of different departments and heads of the various departments.

It was told in the meeting that accommodations for darbar move employees, power supply, drinking water, transport and healthcare have been ensured. It was told that 75 hostels having 2100 rooms have been made available for the move employees, besides 62 buses will be pressed into service for ferrying these employees.

The Chief Secretary was also informed that adequate space for parking of vehicles has been earmarked. The mobile health unit for employees has also been arranged from Jawhar Tunnel to Srinagar.

The Chief Secretary while expressing satisfaction over the arrangements said that all the move offices will function from May 5 from 9. 30 am sharp. He said that the administration has already been directed to be available in their offices to address the problems of the people.

Mr. Kundal said that any officer found guilty of any laxity in this behalf will not be tolerated at any cost.

The Chief Secretary asked the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution authorities to re-energize all its checking squads to deal hoarders and profiteers with iron hand and initiate all possible measures to keep price line in check. He also directed them to ensure early stock of all essentials in Ladakh region and other hilly and remote areas which remain cut off during winter.

Emphasizing the need for punctuality in the offices, the Chief Secretary instructed all the heads of the departments to implement these instructions in letter and spirit.

80% hike in revenue recovery at Lakhanpur

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Commercial Taxes Department has recorded nearly 80 % increase in the tax realisation at Lakhanpur check post during April this year.

Deputy Commissioner, Commercial Taxes Lakhanpur, Inderjeet Singh, disclosed that revenue amounting to Rs 1829.22 lakh has been realised during April 2008 on account of Entry Tax, Security, Penalty & Passenger Tax as against Rs 1016.14 lakh recovered during the corresponding period of April 2007, thereby, showing an increase of 80% in the revenue recovery.

The taxable imports into the State during the month of April 2008 have been recorded to the tune of Rs 1465.71 crore. While the taxable imports for Jammu division during the April 2008 have been found to be worth Rs 1253.20 crore. For Kashmir division the imports were to the tune of Rs 212.35 crore.

Mr Singh disclosed that taxable exports during April 2008 have registered an increase of 17%. The exports during April 2008 were worth Rs 897.51 crore against the exports worth Rs 769.53 crore during April 2007, thereby, recording an increase of Rs 127 crore.

The imports by the Industries sector have registered a decrease of 10% during the month of April 2008. The imports by the industries sector during April 2008 were worth Rs 484.90 crore as against Rs 535.12 crore during April 2007.

He further disclosed that during routine checking 2562 cases were detected under VAT Act, 2005 in April. Out of this, 1043 cases were transferred to different circles of Jammu division, 982 cases to different circles of Kashmir and 640 cases were retained at the check post for disposal, out of which 507 stand disposed off.

Dogra Brahman Pratinidhi Sabha to hold Samelan

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: In connection with celebration of Bhagawan Parshuram Jayanti the Dogra Brahman Pratinidhi Sabha is holding Brahman Samelan here at Parshuram Bhawan, Parade on May 7.

This was stated by the office bearers of the Sabha at a press conference here, today.

They said the Samelan will commence with Hawan and Pooja in the morning. The function will be presided over by the Sabha president, Dev Raj Baru and the religious discourses will be given by the saints including Ganga Dhar Shastri, Dr Jagpuran Dass Shastri and Suresh Shastri.

During the samelan the homage will also be paid to martyrs of 1857 like Rani Lakshmi Bai and Tantiya Tope. Besides the homage will also be paid to Dogra martyrs like Baba Jitto, Baba Ranpath Dev, Baba Billoo, Dwarka Nath Shastri and Maj. Som Nath Sharma who sacrificed their lives for the justice and nation. The Sabha has also arranged Brahman Bhoj in the afternoon.

The Sabha units of Udhampur, Nowshera, Kathua, Bishnah, Ramnagar, R S Pura and Samba are also celebrating the Jayanti under the banner of Dogra Brahman Pratinidhi Sabha, Jammu, they said.

The Sabha leaders reiterated their demand regarding declaration of Jayanti of Bhagawan Parshuram as holiday. They also appealed all sections of the society to participate in the celebrations.

Robbery case solved, three held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Within a span of less than two months, police today worked out a case of robbery that took place in village Gagrote of tehsil Nowshera and recovered all the stolen goods.

According to police spokesman, a special team headed by Inspector Naresh Kumar Sharma duly assisted by ASI Sukhdev Singh was constituted under the supervision of Additional SP, Sanjeev Kumar Khajuria and SDPO Nowshera, Mukesh Kumar Kakkar.

In a major break through in the ongoing investigations, the special team apprehended the robbers including Jasbir Singh alias Jatti son of Dhanna Singh and resident of Panya, Joginder Singh son of Baldev Singh and resident of Sai, Langam in tehsikl Reasi and Hoshiar Singh son of Gadhu Singh and resident of Karangi in tehsil Akhnoor.

However, another accomplice of robbers, Sita Rani wife of Sukhdev Singh and resident of Garote, Nowshera is absconding.

The theft took place in the house of an in- service Jawan namely Punjab Singh, posted away from home, on the intervening night of March 30 and 31 this year. The robbers barged into the house by knocking down wife of Punjab Singh with some lethal weapon and decamped with goods worth Rs 1,50,000, police said.

Rs 4258.71 lakh Annual Plan for Udhampur approved

Excelsior Correspondent

UDHAMPUR, May 3: The Annual Plan of Rs.4258.71 lakh of district Udhampur with Capital component of Rs.3622.18 lakh and Revenue component of Rs.636.53 lakh has been approved at the District Development Board (DDB) meeting held here today. The capital component includes Rs.1364.18 lakh as State share and loan component of the order of Rs.1733 lakh including Rs.5.25 crore as additional Central Assistance under Minor Irrigation Sector.

The Minister of State for Power, Babu Singh who is also Chairman of District Development Board, chaired the meeting.

Addressing the meeting , Mr. Babu Singh stressed upon the officers for implementing the decisions of Cabinet-cum-DDB meetings in letter and spirit leaving no scope of any complaint from any quarter, chalk out effective strategies in execution of on-going development works with proper coordination and cooperation between different agencies, ensure proper planning and monitoring and prepare new plans after taking Legislators and Gram Sabhas into confidence.

Legislators of Ramnagar, Udhampur and Chenani constituencies demanded enhancement of ceiling of funds for Municipal Council and Committees, enhancement of hand pump quota of Legislators, electric connections for still uncovered hamlets under RGVY, fresh survey of BPL lists by a single agency, Scheduled Tribe hostels at Chenani and Ramnagar, Tourist Reception Centres at Railway Station, Udhampur and Ramnagar and opening of Health institutions etc.

After gving due cognizance, the Chairman asked the DDC to recommend provision of Rs.50 Lakh for Udhampur Municipality and Rs.30 lakh each for Municipal Committees of Ramnagar and Chenani respectively with an enhanced quota of 35 hand pumps for each constituency for the current fiscal..

MP Choudhary Lal Singh emphasised upon the officers to put in their concerted efforts in smooth and timely completion of works with non compromise on its quality by taking the elected representatives and people in confidence.

Earlier in his welcome address, the District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, O.P. Kalandria apprised the meeting about physical and financial achievements of the year 2007-08 including the targets laid down for the year 2008-09.

Member Parliament, Chowdhary Lal Singh, Legislators, Harsh Dev Singh, . Balwant Singh Mankotia, Faquir Nath, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range, Alok Puri, Chief Planning Officer, Rakesh Jamwal, President, Municipal Council, Udhampur, Ashok Gupta, President Municipal Committees of Ramnagar and Chenani, Departmental and District Heads of various departments attended the DDB meeting.

Promotion of Anganwari workers on cards:Vakil

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Minister for Social Welfare Abdul Gani Vakil and along with Minister of State for R&B Ch. Gharu Ram today visited Naibasti Gulabgarh in Suchetgarh to distribute 535 old age, widow and handicapped pension cheques and 18 National Family Benefit Scheme cheques amounting to Rs.9,16,100 among the beneficiaries of Suchetgarh here this afternoon.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Vakil said that coalition Government is keen for welfare of Anganwari workers and steps were afoot to help raise their honorarium by pursuing the issue at central level. He said top priority was being given on speedy disposal of promotion files of all employees at all levels to infuse energy in administrative machinery for speedy progress and development of the State. He dwelt in detail on the reformative measures initiated in social welfare department. He said widows, old aged and destitute snow only need production of BPL card for obtaining security pension. The poor people not possessing BPL cards would be eligible for pension on the recommendation of Numberdar and Chowkidars of their respective villages, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Ch. Gharu Ram said that Azad-led government was taking keen interest to uplift the socio-economic condition of the weaker sections of the society across the State.

Later, the Minister for Social Welfare Abdul Gani Vakil convened a high level meeting of Social Welfare Department officers to review the progress registered during 2007-08.

Principal Secretary to Government Social Welfare Department R. K. Jerath, Director Social Welfare Laj Ram and other senior officers of SWD were present in the meeting.

Lay emphasis on Unani, other I&M for healthcare: Lakshmi

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 3: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Panabaaka Lakshmi has said that the Government of India has been providing constant support to the development of Unani System as a holistic and scientific system of medicine.

The Minister was addressing galaxy of doctors at Gandhi Bhavan of University of Kashmir today.

She said the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine is engaged in the multifaceted research activities in the field of Unani Medicine and said that it has achieved excellent results in the treatment of vitiligo, adding that during last 28 years the Council has achieved some important landmarks in its various research areas and has emerged a leading research organization in the field of Unani Medicine.

In order to safeguard the traditional and codified Unani knowledge from piracy, the Project of Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) on Unani Medicine has been initiated to record detailed knowledge of therapeutic efficacy of different medicinal plants used in Unani Medicine. This patent-friendly database should go a long way in scientific development of the system, she added.

"I would suggest that the University of Kashmir may send schemes under Extra Mural Research Programme for assistance by Government of India and we will be only too happy to consider them", she said.

The Minister emphasized upon the State Government to lay great emphasis on usage of Unani and other Indian System of Medicine for attainment of healthcare delivery system. Maximum use of Unani Medicine should be made while implementing National Rural Health Mission and in this endeavour assured of the fullest support of the Central Government for the purpose.

Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir, Prof. Riyaz Punjabi presided over the inaugural function of Workshop on Patent & IPR issues & accepted for collaboration with Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine & Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine (RRIUM).

Meanwhile, Mrs Panabaaka Lakshmi inaugurated the Indian System of Medicines Wing at Government Medical College, Srinagar today.

BJP Migrant Cell terms PM’s package as elections stunt

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Migrant Cell in its meeting here today termed the Prime Minister’s package for Kashmiri migrants as election stunt.

The meeting was chaired by the chairman of the Cell, H L Chatta. He alleged that UPA Government by announcing the package tried to befool the displaced Pandits.

He said the recommendations of Interministerial Committee have not been implemented till date. Addressing the meeting general secretary of the Cell Bharat Bhushan Gosani demanded that the blue print of the package be made public. He also alleged that package has ignored the Koul Committee recommendations and demanded five per cent reservations in Central Government jobs besides recruitment of 20,000 KP youth in State Government.

Mr Gosani also demanded age relaxation for youth and financial package of Rs 10 lakh to them for setting up of business ventures. H N Koul and R K Wangnoo also addressed the meeting.

Bhalla flags off awareness rally
Journalists Guild observes "Press Freedom Day"

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: To commemorate the "World Press Freedom Day", Journalists Guild (Jammu), a society of young and progressive journalists, in together with students of University of Jammu (JU) took out an awareness rally in the city.

MLA Gandhi Nagar Raman Bhalla, who was the chief guest, flagged off the rally this morning from Press Club. He was also accompanied by his wife Mrs Indira Bhalla.

Journalists from different media organizations joined the rally in big number. The team of students from JU was led by Mohd Shahnawaz Choudhary.

Earlier, in his keynote address, the MLA appreciated initiative taken by ‘Journalists Guild’ for organizing awareness rally amongst civil society regarding right of "Freedom of Expression". He said it was extremely important to sensitize people about the role being played by the media.

Lauding the efforts of media-persons, he assured his full support to the cause of young journalists and freedom of press.

Manish Sahni, vice president of the guild, stated that the guild aims at bringing all the young journalists on a common platform to raise voice against the misuse of the noble institution of Journalism.

Also speaking, Devender Padha, general secretary, deliberated upon importance of the day.

He said, "This day belongs to each member of the society and not to journalists only, as our Constitution guarantees freedom of expression to all the citizens". Padha also impressed upon University students to create awareness among the masses to strengthen the institution of Journalism with their active participation.

The rally after commencing from Press Club went up to Hotel Asia, Gandhi Nagar via Bikram Chowk and culminated back at the starting place. It is pertinent to mention that World Press Freedom Day is a day designated by the United Nations to raise awareness about the importance of freedom of press.

Baig inspects developmental works

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, May 3: Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig today conducted an extensive tour of the old city and inspected the pace of progress on the works under taken by the Department of Tourism with a view to promote Heritage Tourism and also the works being done by the Jammu and Kashmir Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA).

The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Secretary Tourism Nayeem Akhter and Director Tourism Kashmir Farooq Shah and other officers of Tourism department and ERA.

The Deputy Chief Minister inspected the renovation of the historic Aali Masjid being undertaken by the Tourism department under the Heritage Development Programme. The work for the phase-I has been started from May 2007.

Mr Baig also inspected the ongoing works on the Nagin Club which is also being constructed by the Tourism department. He also inspected the landscaping and the pace of work being done on the park constructed on the banks of Nagin in Nandipora area of Baghwanpora Lal Bazar, which besides having a public park, festival area, an outdoor theatre will also provide avenue to the local artisans to promote the traditional arts. While interacting with the local houseboat owners, Mr Baig stressed on the need to preserve the environment.

On the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister also announced Rs 2 crore for the rehabilitation of the Leper Hospital (Baharar) inmates who will be provided an alternative accommodation.

The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the work being done on Nishat Dalbund Water Supply Scheme being executed by the Jammu and Kashmir Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA).

Anan Sharma new president of Petroleum dealers

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: All Jammu and Kashmir Petroleum Dealers Association today held a general body meeting and elected its new team of office bearers led by Anan Sharma, president.

The other office bearers elected were Vijay Saraf, senior vice president, Sanjay Mahajan, vice president, Shammi Nagpal, general secretary, Rahul Mahajan, secretary and Narinder Gupta treasurer.

Earlier, in the meeting, the members thoroughly reviewed the working of the association, wherein it was felt necessary to hold the fresh elections to improve the functioning of the association to fulfill the aspirations of the Petroleum dealer community, as the previous elections were held in the year 2000.

The elections of the Kashmir unit had already been conducted, wherein Haji Gulam Mohi-u-din Rafeeqi was elected as senior vice president, while Roshan Lal Tickoo elected as vice president.

Qadir Wani resigns from PDP, joins BJP

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Senior People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Ex MLA from Doda, Ghulam Qadir Wani joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, today along with his supporters.

Mr Wani joined the BJP in presence of R P Singh its Seh Prabhari, Prof. Hari Om, senior vice president, and Bali Bhagat, Party general secretary and Ex. MLA .

Talking to media persons, R P Singh said with Wani’s joining the BJP, the party would be strengthened in Doda district. He said BJP is working for the strengthening of nationalist forces and Wani’s decision to join the Party is an answer to those who dub the Party as anti-minorities.

Mr Singh made it clear that BJP is not anti minorities but Party opposes those pseudo secular parties who exploit minorities for vote bank politics.

Mr Wani said he and his colleagues were fed up with the policies of UPA at Centre and coalition Government in the State as they were working against the interests of people. "So we decided to join the Party which is people friendly and I and my colleagues left the PDP as we had differences on the issues,"he added.

Wani, while blaming Kashmir centric parties alleged that it has been a practice with them that they change slogans during elections to come to power.

Making a dig at NC’s slogan of autonomy, he said why did not NC patriarch, Umar Abdullah resign from Union Council of Ministers when the autonomy resolution was rejected by the NDA Government if he was so sincere.

Wani said instead of making catchy slogans to exploit the masses , the political parties should work for the national cause. He also lauded the former Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee saying that no communal clashes took place during his rule. Moreover, it was Mr Vajpayee who initiated dialogue process with Pakistan and took initiative for opening of Srinagar, Muzaffarabad road, he added.

Pooh-phoohing those who term BJP anti Muslims, he said in Gujarat 17 percent Muslims voted for BJP and added those describing BJP communal were misleading the people.

Punjabi seminar highlights different
perspectives of literary criticism

By Ravinder Kaul

"Dogri and Punjabi are sister languages and the problems being faced by both these languages are almost similar in nature. Therefore, it would be appropriate to come to terms with these problems jointly through mutual cooperation." This was stated by Dr S.S.Noor, Vice President, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, while speaking at the seminar titled "Different Perspectives of Literary Analysis" organized by Punjabi Adbi Sangat, Jammu in collaboration with Writer's Forum, Jammu and Punjabi Academy, Delhi. Dr Noor further said that by organizing conferences, workshops and seminars jointly, an attempt can be made towards bringing these languages together while resolving the issues confronting them. He commended the fraternal spirit existing between the literary organizations of various languages functioning in Jammu and said that similar spirit must be exhibited by literary organisations all over the country.

Speaking about the issues raised during the seminar, Dr. Noor said that ideology should not overwhelm works of literature. However, he also warned that overemphasis on the fact of not having an ideology can also have a negative impact on creativity.

Earlier, speaking on the topic of the Seminar veteran critic J.S.Rahi, who read a paper on the novel "Saleeb Apni Apni" written by Dr. Sushil Sharma, said that 'different perspectives about the same creative work can change the viewpoint of looking at that particular work. For instance, a work can be analysed from the standpoint of literary history, philosophy or social anthropology, he said. He presented the critical analysis of Dr. Sharma's novel and said that details of ideology are needed in a novel in order to create 'reality effect'. 'Life is a drama and the beauty of life lies in going through different emotional ingredients of the drama. There would be no enjoyment in ecstasy in case there is no agony, he said.

The session was presided over by Deepak Manmohan Singh, Convenor, Punjabi Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. C.R.Moudgil, Director, Haryana Punjabi Sahitya Academy, Dr. Rawail Singh, Secretary, Punjabi Academy, Delhi and Dr. Manmohan Singh, IPS and well known Punjabi poet were the guests of honour of the session. Two books "Band Darwaaze da Birtaant" and "Sajri Gall" written by Harbhajan Singh Sagar and Gurdeep Kour respectively were released during this session.

A paper was presented by Raminder Kour based on a short story titled "Baba Tikri" written by Khalid Hussain. Another paper based on a short story by Khalid Husain titled " Manukh Andar Lukeya Manukh" was presented by Dr. Gurpal Singh Sandhu.

In the discussions that followed Dr Lalit Magotra, Neeru Sharma and Mohan Singh participated.

In an earlier session in which Narsingh Dev Jamwal, Dr. Satya Pal Shrivats, Mohan Singh and Rajpal Singh Mastana formed the presidium a number of papers were presented by well known scholars. While Dr Ravinder Singh presented a paper on the novel "Band Darwaaze da Birtaant" written by Harbhajan Singh 'Sagar', Dr Davinder Singh presented a paper on "Sajri Gall", a collection of short stories written by Gurdeep Kour.

Dr Jagbir Singh read a paper on Saran Singh's book "Tawi da Tabbar" and Kashmiri short stories in a broad perspective. Dr Kulvir Singh presented a paper on the poetry of well known poet Surjit Sakhi.

The programme was conducted by Anuradha Sharma quite effectively.

Mangat inaugurates health mela at Thial

Excelsior Correspondent

SAMBA, May 3: Health Minister Mangat Ram Sharma today called for massive public- private participation for expanding the reach of health care.

Speaking at a function organized by Shri Durga Dass Memorial Society on 12th health Mela at Thian in Udhampur district, Mr. Sharma said that reaching out to the poorest of the poor populace should be top on the agenda of the government, philanthropic associations and non-governmental organization.

‘The general impression about motivating functioning of non-governmental organizations due to some unscrupulous elements should not bring bad name to such an effort which has generally been beneficial for ameliorating the condition of poor and downtrodden people living in remote areas’, the Minister said while referring to the gigantic initiative taken by the Shri Durga Dass Memorial Society in the field of health, hygiene and other development works in this rural area.

The Organizer of the Mela informed that Shri Durga Dass Memorial Society has organized 12th Health melas so far with special focus on opthmology. Last year 68 catract operation were conducted and glasses were provided free of cost to the patients.

Dr Yash Pal Sharma said that effort is also being made to create general awareness among the masses about various diseases and treatment available at affordable costs.

Earlier, Chairman of the Society B. D Sharma presented welcome address.

Annual plan for district Shopian fixed at Rs 44.43 cr

Excelsior Correspondent

SHOPIAN, May 3 : The annual plan for district Shopian has been approved for over Rs 44.43 crore at District Development Board meeting held here today.

The meeting was chaired by Minister for Forests Qazi Mohammed Afzal, who is also chairman of District Development Board Shopian. The meeting was among others attended by MLA Shopain Ghulam Hassan Khan, MLA Wachi Mohammed Khalil Naik, MLC Mohammed Yousuf Taing, District Development Commi-ssioner Shopian Mohammed Ramzan Thoker, heads of various departments and district officers/ sectoral officers.

Speaking on the occasion, the chairman laid stress for completing the projects within stipulated time. He said that the coordinated efforts by the administration will bear fruitful results and the community infrastructure can be developed. He said that there is need to initiate immediate measures for the priority sectors and the backward areas.

He urged upon officers to redouble their efforts and hoped by devotion and dedication targets can be well achieved. He also called for identifying the projects which need immediate attention.

Giving resume of the achievements of the last fiscal, the District Development Commissioner Shopian, Mohammed Ramzan Thakur said that against the availability of Rs 2343. 94 lakhs, expenditure to the tune of Rs 2193.12 lakhs was booked on various developmental works and welfare programmes.

On this occasion, the MLA's and MLCs raised various points of public importance. MLA Shopian Ghulam Hassan Khan and MLC Mohammed Yousuf Taing raised the issue of setting up of Tourism Development Authority, repairs and renovation of roads, developing of infrastructure for education and health department in the district.

PDP workers felicitate Yashpal on joining PDP

Excelsior Correspondent

POONCH, May 3: Former Congress leader who had contested Assembly elections unsuccessfully from Poonch constituency and joined PDP recently, was today felicitated by the party workers in a function organised here today.

A function in this connection was organised by the zone committee of the PDP under the leadership of Imtiaz Bandey. State general secretary of the Party Murtaza Khan, MLC, former minister, district president Hamid Manhas, Gurmeet Singh and district Mahila wing president Prem Sudan were present in the meeting.

These senior party leaders besides other activists welcomed Yashpal Sharma into the party fold and hoped that he would play a vital role in strengthening the party in the district. He was garlanded and accorded felicitation by the Party leaders.

While speaking on the occasion, Yashpal Sharma said that his rejoining the PDP was his home coming. He said that it was all due to the pro-people policies being propagated by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that he has decided to rejoin the party. He gave all credit to PDP for prevailing peace along the international border and Line of Control.

He termed Mufti Mohd Sayeed as crusader of peace and said it was high time to strengthen his hands for restoring lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

Mr Bandey said that Mufti Sayeed will be addressing a large rally at Poonch on May 12 and party was gearing up for this historic program.

Plea to issue ordinance of modified SRO-294

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, May 3: The district unit of All India Confederation of SC/ST Organisations has urged the State Government to issue ordinance of modified SRO-294.

In a meeting of the Confederation held here today under the chairmanship of Abdul Rashid Chouhan, chief patron of the unit, a large number of SC/ST employees participated. They expressed serious concern over the delay being caused by the Government in the issuance of an ordinance of the modified SRO-294.

Mr Chouhan claimed that Chief Minister had assured at his residence to the delegation on January 31, 2008 after detailed discussion but nothing happened till date.

Ghulam Qasim and Shah Mohd, two senior Confederation members took serious view of fixing matric eligibility criteria for class-IV recruitment. They said this move of the Government would deprive youth of the weaker sections and SC/ST communities of the opportunity to get Government job. Because for this, the qualification was fixed as 10th pass. They sought relaxation for the candidates from SC/ST/OBC categories.

Saroori inaugurates Tourists Huts at Mansar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: The twin lake of Mansar and Surinsar are poised to become major tourist attractions in the near future. This was stated by Minister of State for Tourism Mr G M Saroori after inaugurating the newly upgraded tourist huts and other facilities at Mansar.

The Minister also inspected the newly constructed boating shed and boating ghat for regulating and facilitating the use of pedal boats by the tourists. He further expressed satisfaction at the repair/upgradation and face-lifting of various facilities by the Directorate of Tourism including two view points at a cost of Rs14 lakh, two approach roads and parking area around the lake at a cost of Rs.10 lakh. He was also informed circular path around the lake and repairs and upgradation of children’s park, bathing ghats, benches etc are being developed at a cost of Rs 9.25 lakh and Rs.6 lakh respectively.

The Minister further disclosed that the matter had been taken up with the PWD (R&B) Department for the repair of the road between Samba and Mansar. He stated that the matter is being taken up with the concerned department for improvement of the Samba-Mansar road also. Meanwhile, the road from Jammu to Mansar via Surinsar was already being upgraded at a cost of Rs.40 crore and was expected to be completed by ending March 2009. Once completed, the distance from Jammu to Mansar would be just 45 km. The completion of this road would give a fillip to promotion of tourism to the twin lakes of Mansar and Surinsar.

Earlier, the Minister also inaugurated the Children’s park items installed at Mansar by the Mansar-Surinsar Development Authority.

Young Kathak exponents cast spell on audience

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Disciples of Nritya Mahasamrat being run by Guru Vishwa Nath Kohli today mesmerized the audience with there dazzling dancing skills. The occasion was Kathak Dance show organized by Nami Dogri Sanstha-The Art Foundation Jammu together with Akashwani, Doordarshan Casual Music Artistes Association at Abhinav Theatre.

All the young Kathak exponents including Shruti Sharma, Asdhi , Kritgya Bhatt, Puneika Bhasin, Suhani Gupta, Priyanka Raina, Dhwani, Illa Sharma and Sharma sisters Shubrika Sharma, Bhumika Sharma, Itika Sharma and Aadhy Sharma, all students of Presentation Convent School, Gandhi Nagar, demonstrated their performance with such perfection that audience was left literally spellbound.

All the dance moves were perfectly in sync with the beats of tabla infused with music of sitar, flute and padrant that collectively exhibited a unique harmony of two art forms. KL Verma on harmonium Neeraj Verma on tabla, S Charan Singh on Sitar, Rakesh Anand on flute and VN Kohli on padrant were simply on their best.

Earlier, Chief Guest and vice-chancellor of Jammu University, Professor Amitabh Mattoo inaugurated the event by illuminating the traditional lamp. Yash Pal Yash compered the programme and Captian Lalit Sharma presented vote of thanks.

Prominent among others who were present on the occasion were DGM, SBI SP Singh, Chairman Saraswati Educational Trust, Rajesh Sharma, President of the Sanstha, Dogra Harish Kaila and noted Urdu writer, SS Anand Lehar.

Charak’s concern over plight of various canals

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Minister for Higher Education Gulchain Singh Charak today stressed upon the Irrigation department to gear up its activities for channelizing the irrigation water to the tail end villages of far-flung areas during summer months. Expressing concern over the plight of various canals in the Jammu district, he called for immediate execution of desilting works so that the water flow is not hampered.

During the tour of Bishnah and adjoining areas of Ismailpur Kothay, Deoli, Dabbar, Chak Wazira, Chak Hasal, Karail Manhasan, Kathar Kothay, Pindi Camp, Pindi Charken, Trewa, the Minister impressed upon field functionaries to tour the villages located in far flung areas for taking stock of ground problems. He was informed that the ongoing desilting works in different canals have resulted in piling of malba along the sides of canal. The villages apprised the Minister that the malba dumps again submerge in the water of canals leading to blockages at different places.

Mr. Charak gave on the spot instruction to the engineers of Irrigation department to clear the silt heaps along side canals and dump them at some other vacant site away from canal. He asked them to complete the desilting work before 11th of May so that the farmers are not subjected to shortage of water failing which stern action will be taken against them.

On being apprised that the level of water has dipped alarmingly low in the canals, the Minister exhorted to take immediate action for raising the water level to the requisite mark so that water reaches the farm land. He said that the Government is giving greater thrust to increasing the agricultural produce in the State, which is the mainstay of our economy. He also asked the department to maintain the distributes of canals in a proper manner so that the farmer receive water on time.

The Minister also constituted an enquiry into the collapse of building constructed by Irrigation department during the recent floods.

PNB finances study of needy students

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: As a part of corporate social service program, Punjab National Bank (PNB) today extended financial assistance to seven needy students of Government Middle School Babliana.

The occasion was marked by a function held in school premises, which was well attended by the staff of bank and school besides students and villagers.

The function was held under the stewardship of Manager, Vivek Arya whereas Chief Manger of the PNB zonal office, Dr BM Padha handed over cheque to Head Mistress of the school. The cheque was aimed at school fee, stationary expenses and uniform of the students for the academic year 2008-09.

The demand for undertaking educational expenses of poor and needy students of the school was made by villagers in December 2007 to the District Co-ordinator when a farm club was opened by the bank in the area.

In his keynote address, Mr Padha assured the school authorities and villagers that the bank will equip school with computers shortly. "Knowledge and literacy are key instruments in fighting against poverty," he averred and added that PNB shall be second to none in discharging its social obligations.

Prominent among others who were present on the occasion were District Co-ordinator of the bank, AK Mota, Senior Manager Marketing, RK Gupta, Deputy Manager, Rajinder Kumar and Sarpanch of t he village, Mohan Lal Khajuria.

Locals protest police inaction
Cong leader recaptures Army’s Sadbhavana hall

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, May 3: A local Congress leader Bader Din has recaptured the community hall constructed by the Army under Operation Sadbhavana for the residents of the area at Bhudhal town despite strong protest by the local population.

The locals protested the police inaction against the influential leader, said to be the close associate of the local MLA Thakur Puran Singh. The police claimed to have registered an FIR No. 29/2008 against the accused, who has occupied the public property for his personal use.

The Army after constructing this community hall had handed over to the same to Panchayat members for the public purpose. Some audio-video equipment was also provided. On the basis of complaint by an Army officer and protest by public, the police got vacated this hall on May 2 but he again occupied the community hall.

The local villagers alleged that the police has failed to arrest the accused who was very much present in the area and issuing threats to the locals, protesting against his designs. They also held protest today against this illegal act of the accused.

DySP Naresh Singh, however, claimed that hall was got vacated two days back and a case already stands registered against Bader Din. Singh said that he will check up about the latest development but maintained that he will be penalised as per law.

HC quashes PSA detention of Law student

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Justice Bashir Ahmed Kirmani of State High Court today quashed the detention of Nahida Altaf, a student of Dogra Law College under PSA..

According to the prosecution case, Nahida Altaf was arrested alongwith her father, a police official, on September 2, 2007 after some grenades were recovered from their vehicle. Subsequently, a case under 4/5 Explosive Substances Act and 7/25 Arms Act was registered against them and Nahida was detained under Public Safety Act on the ground that she was working with HM outfit.

After hearing Advocate P N Raina and Advocate Anshuja Sharma appearing for the petitioner and AAG BS Salathia appearing for the State, Justice B A Kirmani observed that grounds of the detention and contents of police challan if accepted suggest petitioner's close association with some released militants. The grounds of detention and alleged recovery of arms if stretched further only indicates petitioner's fanciful flirtation with the idea of some unusual adventure. But the wrong choice of a medium, presumptively attributed to her younger age and lack of exposure misled her into a world where there would be nothing except dust and darkness for her.

This aspect of the matter agitates in favour of creating space for the petitioner to come back and rejoin the life as a useful member of her family and society at large, the Court said, adding a converse approach may not only destroy her future carrier and life but also convert her into a liability upon the society which has to be avoided.

With these observations, the Court quashed the detention order under PSA passed by District Magistrate Jammu on November 21, 2007 with a direction for her immediate release from custody.

Secular Front asks Govt to honour package for migrants

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 3: Jammu and Kashmir Secular Front in a meeting here today held under the chairmanship of its patron Virender Sathu while welcoming the special package announced by the Prime Minister for the Kashmiri migrants has expressed the hope that Government will honour the same.

Addressing the meeting S L Koul spokesman of the Front appealed the Government to honour the employment package for migrant youth as PM has announced to recruit 6000 youth through fast track recruitment boards with age relaxation of eight years.

He said this step will restore the confidence of the migrants in general and migrant youth in particular. This process will help in the interaction of these youth with majority community in the Valley which will automatically pave the way for migrants return.

However president of the Front, Ravi Koul said that the return of Kashmiri migrants to Valley should be thoroughly debated by the community members as any decision taken in haste may lead to confusion.

Anil Pandita co-ordinator demanded bringing of migrants especially relief holders under the ambit of health insurance scheme.

The meeting also stressed on accelerating the construction work of two room flats at Jagati and issuance of orders for relief benefits in favour of bifurcated ration card holders.