Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 4: Bahujan Samaj Party vice president R L Chargotra accompanied by Behari Lal Digra, candidate Raipur Domana Constituency Tara Chand Langeh, Anil Kumar (Panch), Charan Dass (Panch) and many other leaders of the party held a series of booth level meeting at Gurah Pattan Dummi, Sobaka, Malpur, Marjoli, Dharam Khoo and Amb Gharota.
While speaking in meetings Mr Chargotra and the candidate B L Digra stressed upon the workers to strengthened the party and to implement the ideology of Dr B R Ambedkar Kanshi Ram and the National BSP president Kumari Mayawati.
At different meetings people showed their Anguish over the scarcity of basic amenties of life like drinking water and electricity.
A general and a strong complaint of the people of the area was that Lift Water Irrigation Scheme existed at Ranjan but is not functioning to its required capacity only one pump set is in operation which is not catering to the needs of the farmers that has adversely affected the paddy corp.
BSP leaders campaign in Domana
India, Nepal agree to review 1950 friendship treaty
KATHMANDU, Aug 4: India and Nepal have agreed to “review, adjust and update” the Indo-Nepal friendship treaty of 1950 and also decided to find a permanent solution to the boundary issue so that it is not misused by “unscrupulous elements” posing security threats to either side.
“The two Prime Ministers agreed to review, adjust and update the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 and other bilateral agreements,” according to a joint statement issued today at the end of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to Nepal.
Prime Minister Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Sushil Koirala welcomed the decision of the Joint Commission to direct the Foreign Secretaries of the two countries to meet and discuss specific proposal to revise the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950, which the Government of Nepal agreed to provide at the earliest, the statement said.
“Both sides agreed that the revised treaty should better reflect the current realities and aim to further consolidate and expand the multifaceted and deep rooted relationships in a forward looking manner,” it said.
“India wants Nepal to give suggestions so that the issue can be settled once and for all. Prime Minister Modi said we should settle issues like friends,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesman Syed Akbaruddin told reporters during a briefing on Modi’s meeting with the Nepalese leadership.
Under the provisions of the treaty, Nepalese citizens have enjoyed unparalleled advantages in India, availing the facilities and opportunities on par with Indian citizens.
The treaty enabled Nepal to overcome the disadvantages of being a land-locked country. Overtime, many regimes in Nepal have raised the issue of revision of the treaty.
On the boundary issue, the two prime ministers underlined the need to resolve pending Nepal-India border disputes once and for all. They welcomed the formation of the Boundary Working Group (BWG) to undertake the construction, restoration and repair of boundary pillars including clearance of ‘No man’s land’ and other technical tasks, the statement said.
Both Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the excellent cooperation on security related matters and directed the competent authorities on both sides to make sure that the open border, which has facilitated movements of people on both sides of the border and has been a unique feature of Nepal-India bilateral relations, is not misused by “unscrupulous elements” posing security threats to either side, it said.
There has been a long tradition of free movement of people across the borders. Nepal shares a border of over 1,850 kms to the south with five Indian states – Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Modi and Koirala also welcomed the Joint Commission’s decision to direct the Foreign Secretaries to work on the outstanding boundary issues, including Kalapani and Susta receiving required technical inputs from the BWG as necessary.
The Indian side stressed on early signing of the agreed and initialed strip maps of about 98 per cent of the boundary. The Nepalese side expressed its desire to resolve all outstanding boundary issues, the statement said.
“It was assured that Nepal and India will not allow their territory to be used against each other. Both sides agreed to finalise the texts of Extradition Treaty and Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) at an early date,” it said.
The two prime ministers expressed satisfaction over the ongoing defence cooperation. In this context, the Nepalese side requested Modi for waiver of the dues owned by Nepal to India on account of defence purchases.
They expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation of several projects under bilateral economic cooperation and directed competent officials to implement ongoing as well as the future projects expeditiously, the statement said.
“The Nepalese side requested and the Indian side agreed to take up the project for the construction of Raxaul-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline in the first phase and extend it to Kathmandu in the next phase to facilitate the transport of petroleum products,” the statement said.
Nepal requested India to allow three additional air entry points at Janakpur, Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj, and cross border direct routes to facilitate direct flights between regional airports Pokhara-Bhirahawa-Lucknow as this would save time and cost for air travelers and also improve air connectivity between India and Nepal, it said.
The two prime ministers directed authorities to expedite the works related to the development of cross border transmission lines as agreed in the Joint Commission.
India also agreed to consider to undertake the rehabilitation of Koshi Pump Canal and Koshi Western Canal System and rehabilitation of West Gandak Canal System with a Lift System to irrigate additional Nepalese land.
The Indian side also announced enhancement of scholarships from 180 to 250 Nepalese students and experts to study in various Indian institutions, the statement said.
India also offered short courses cum exposure visits for the Nepalese undergraduate students in the leading universities of India namely Banaras, Kolkata and Delhi University under Nepal-Bharat Maitri Shiksha Karyakram, it said. (PTI)
Wani takes stock of Shopping-cum-Commercial complexes
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 4: Minister for Roads & Buildings and Mechanical Engineering Abdul Majid Wani today visited Shopping-cum-Commercial Complexes at Jehangir Chowk and Ram Bagh, Srinagar and took stock of pace of work on these complexes coming up for the rehabilitation of shop owners displaced due to construction of flyover from Jehangir Chowk to Ram Bagh.
The works on both the complexes stands almost completed and are ready for inauguration.
Briefing about the status of construction work on the complex, the Minister was informed that the 5 storey building at Jehangir Chowk is coming up at an estimated cost of Rs. 48.93 crore. The complex with 13,197 sqms built up area would have 120 shops, adding that 68 shops have been handed over to SMC, while as 16 shops to Estates and 36 shops to Handicrafts stand handed over respectively.
Referring to Ram Bagh Complex, the Minister was informed that 4 storey building is coming up at an estimated cost of Rs. 49.52 crore. The complex with 9672 sqms built up area has 152 shops, 2000 sqms office space and parking space for 72 vehicles in the basement.
The Minister directed the executing agency for accelerating the pace of work ensuring completion of pending work for early inauguration.
JDA employees highlight demands
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 4: Jammu Development Authority (JDA) employees today highlighted their long pending demands and urged the management to concede the same within 10 days failing which they would take strong steps.
The JDA employees, in a meeting held under the presidentship of Rajinder Kumar, said that DPC has not been convened for the last five years thereby depriving them of promotion.
“If due to some reasons it cannot be held then orders should be issued pending approval as was done earlier”, they said, adding “drivers, consolidated, daily wagers and contractual employees, who have been working in JDA for the last 20 years, have not been regularized despite the fact that Srinagar Development Authority has provided justice to such workers by taking decision pending approval of Board of Directors”.
They also demanded transfer of employees, who have been working on one seat for the last 10/15 years for the reasons best known to the JDA management. They further demanded formulation of transfer policy for all sections of employees for transparency.
Criminal booked under PSA
Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, Aug 4: Notorious criminal Sushant Sharma of Subash Nagar, who was arrested last week for allegedly firing upon one Rockey Gupta of Lambi Gali, has been booked under Public Safety Act.
The shoot out case took place in Udhampur on July 24 and the accused was arrested by District Police Udhampur within 72 hours. He was already involved in six cases under Arms Act, Attempt to murder and Murder since the year 2001. During the recent period, he had entered into murky land deals and developed a nexus with other criminals.
Keeping in view the apprehension that he would cause damages to all his business rivals, Sushant Sharma has been got booked under Public Safety Act by District Police Udhampur and further lodged at Kot Bhalwal Jail Jammu.
DIG holds security review meeting
Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, Aug 4: DIG of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Gareeb Dass held a security review meeting with regard to smooth and incident free conduct of annual Independence Day.
The meeting was attended by SP Udhampur and Reasi along with Addl SP and other field officers. Thrust was given on the identification of the problems and issues which have potential to create law and order disturbances and tranquility of the area. Instructions were given to establish joint nakas, intensify patrolling, activation of minority pickets and VDCs.
The field officers were directed to ensure extensive touring in their respective areas of responsibility and hold public meetings with all prominent citizens. More emphasis was given upon the security of vital installation and NH-1A & 1B.
Bhalla inaugurates 10-day Summer Coaching Camp at Indoor Stadium
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 4: Minister for Housing, Horticulture, Culture, Youth Services and Sports, Raman Bhalla, inaugurated a 10-day Summer Coaching Camp, being organized by J&K State Sports Council at Indoor Stadium, here today.
During the camp which will continue till August 12, as many as 100 players including Common Wealth participants, Palak Kour, Mittali Dogra and international player, Zakaria Bilal of the State are participating.
Moreover, coaching in the disciplines of Basketball, Gymnastic and Boxing will also be provided during the event.
While speaking on the occasion, Bhalla said besides upgrading and developing sports infrastructure, Government is providing sports platform to the budding talent across the State so that they can perform better in sports activities and their talent is channelized in a professional manner.
The Minister said that Government has prioritized the aspirations and wishes of youth and will continue to leave no stone unturned for welfare of youth. He said that sports activities are imperative for the physical and mental development of a person. Besides, sports inculcate character of tolerance, mutual brotherhood, team spirit and leadership qualities among the players.
Bhalla also interacted with the participants and wished them a bright future in sports. He also hoped that such camps will yield fruitful results in the sports arena.
Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Sports officers of the State besides other concerned and a large number of sports lovers were present on the occasion.
36 matches played on Day 2nd
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 4: A total of 36 matches were played on 2nd day of 27th Junior (Boys & Girls) Atya Patya National championship, being organized by J&K Atya Patya Association in collaboration with Atya Patya Federation of India at GGM Science College, Jammu.
On the 2nd day of Championship, Chattisgarh defeated Delhi by 10-6, 12-6; Tamil Nadu thrashed Madhya Pradesh by 13-10, 17-12; Pondicherry defeated by Delhi by 11-9, 11-9; Manipur drubbed Bihar by 9-7, 17-15, Pondicherry defeated by West Bengal by 12-10, 11-9; Karnataka trounced Uttrakhand by 12-9, 12-10; Madhya Pradesh thrashed Chandigarh by 36-11, 25-10, Odisha beat Chandigarh by 18-14, 12-12, 17-13 and Karnataka downplayed Uttar Pradesh by 17-15, 18-13.
Uttrakhand defeated Manipur by 13-11, 12-10; Chattisgarh thrashed J&K by 9-7, 9-7; Maharashtra trounced Chattisgarh by 15-13, 18-16; Karnataka routed Rajasthan by 12-10, 9-7; Tamil Nadu beat Uttar Pradesh by 19-16, 16-13; Pondicherry defeated Jharkhand by 14-11, 13-11; Madhya Pradesh drubbed Odisha by 19-17, 21-17; Pondicherry defeated Tamil Nadu by 18-18, 9-7; Karnataka thrashed by West Bengal 15-13, 10-8 and Uttar Pradesh downplayed Chattisgarh by 10-6, 6-4.
Maharashtra defeated Chandigarh by 10-6, 6-4; Delhi defeated J&K by 16-13, 15-10; Jharkhand trounced by Tamil Nadu by 38-9, 20-7; Maharashtra thrashed by Haryana by 15-10, 18-12, Karnataka drubbed J&K by 11-8, 14-10, Uttar Pradesh downplayed Odisha by 11-7, 12-7; Pondicherry defeated Jharkhand by 13-9, 15-12; Uttar Pradesh beat Madhya Pradesh by 12-8, 20-15; Haryana drubbed Chandigarh by 18-10, 19-14; Chattisgarh defeated Odisha by 14-12, 10-8; West Bengal thrashed Delhi by 11-9, 14-12; Chattisgarh trounced Madhya Pradesh by 21-10, 35-8; Karnataka defeated Delhi by 9-6, 8-6 and West Bengal beated J&K by 12-7, 9-5.
Modi offers special prayers at Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal
KATHMANDU, Aug 4:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today offered special prayers at Nepal’s famed centuries-old Pashupatinath Temple here and “felt extremely blessed”.
A devout Hindu, 63-year-old Modi was at the temple of Lord Shiva for about 45 minutes on a ‘Shravan ashtami’ which is considered auspicious.
“Felt extremely blessed on offering prayers at Pashupatinath Temple this morning,” Modi tweeted after offering the puja at 5th century temple on the second and last day of his maiden trip to Nepal after assuming office in May.
He donated 2500 kgs of sandalwood to the Pashupatinath Temple which is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Deopatan, a village 3 km northwest of Kathmandu.
150 priests participated in the special puja during which Modi performed ‘rudra abhishek’ and had ‘panch amrit snan’, a priest said later.
Modi, in saffron dress, emerged from the temple wearing ‘rudraksh malas’.
In the visitors’ book, the Prime Minister wrote that the temple is “unique”.
“Pashupatinath and Kashi Vishwanath (of Varanasi) are the same. I am full of emotions and I pray that the blessings of Pashupatinath, which unite Nepal and India, may continue for people of the two countries,” wrote Modi, who was elected to Parliament from Varanasi, the city known as the abode of Lord Shiva. The Pashupatinath temple is dedicated to a manifestation of Shiva called Pashupati (Lord of Animals). It attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, mostly from India.
There are a lot of Indian pujaris at the temple.
There is a tradition of keeping four priests and one chief priest at the temple from among the Bramhins of south India for centuries. According to legend, the temple was constructed by Pashupreksha of the Somadeva Dynasty in the 3rd century BC, but the first historical records date from the 13th century. The ascetic Pashupata sect was likely related to its foundation.
Pashupati was a tutelary deity of the ancient rulers of the Kathmandu Valley; in 605 AD, Amshuvarman considered himself favored by his touching of the God’s feet.
By the later Middle Ages, many imitations of the temple had been built, such as in Bhaktapur (1480), Lalitpur (1566) and Benares (early 19th century). The original temple was destroyed several times until it was given its present form under King Bhupalendra Malla in 1697.
According to a legend recorded in local texts, especially the Nepalamahatmya and the Himavatkhanda, the Hindu god Shiva once fled from the other gods in Varanasi to Mrigasthali, the forest on the opposite bank of the Bagmati River from the temple. There, in the form of a gazelle, he slept. When the gods discovered him there and tried to bring him back to Varanasi, he leapt across the river to the opposite bank, where one of his horns broke into four pieces. After this, Shiva became manifest as Pashupati (Lord of Animals) in a four-face (chaturmukha) linga. (PTI)
CCI, CAIT extend thanks to Health Minister for relief to traders
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 4: While accepting the demand of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu and the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), apex body of the trading community of the country, the Union Health Minister Dr. Harshvardhan has deferred the last date of obtaining Registration under the Food Safety and Standards Act till February 4, 2015. Earlier last date was August 4, 2014 The FSSAI has issued a notification yesterday. It is noteworthy to mention that Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu and CAIT were strongly lobbying for deferment of the Act since last more than two months on account of many impracticable provisions of the said Act. The CCI & CAIT alleged that the Act has been brought to facilitate MNCs to control and dominate the food business in India.
Welcoming the decision, president Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu, CAIT National president B. C. Bhartia and Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal in a joint statement issued here today complimented Dr. Harshvardhan for taking cognizance of the sufferings and plight of the trading community and therefore has deferred the Act.
Rakesh Gupta, President CCI, Mr. Bhartia and Mr. Khandelwal in a joint statement said that though certainly it is a big relief to traders and citizens of the Country but CCI with the active cooperation of CAIT will continue its fight since the Act is suffered with various anomalies and disparities. The trade leaders called upon Dr. Harshvardhan to defer the Act and constitute a Joint Committee of Senior Government Officials and CAIT representatives to make an in depth study of the Act and its Rules and Regulations and to recommend the Government necessary amendments to make the Act universally accepted by all sections of the society.
The trade leaders said that under the provisions of the Act not only the person engaged in food business or even in any social functions where any kind of food articles are served will be required to obtain registration. They said that which means that even the ‘prasad’ in temple or ‘lunger’ in Gurudwara, Wedding functions or social functions like Conferences and Seminars, hawkers, street vendors etc. are also liable to obtain registration and even a minor lapse will lead such people for heavy punishment including fine and imprisonment.