Dr Jitendra announces Rs 40 lakh MPLAD, KV for Bani...
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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar organized Convocation 2014 & 2015 at SKICC here today. Governor N.N. Vohra, who was chief guest on the occa- sion, presented 16 Gold Medals to the toppers of each branch of B. Tech and 8 Gold Medals to the toppers of each programme of M. Tech to the pass out batches, besides 9 Ph. D and 3 M. Phil Degrees to the candidates. About 1200 graduates, post-graduates and doctorates received Degrees at the Convocation. Congratulating all those who received Degrees and Medals, the Governor asked them to work hard and achieve excellence in their respective fields and earn laurels for their parents, their alma-mater and their country. He asked them to bring new innovations in the present era of rapid tech- nological transformations and take the country to new heights. He urged young engineers and technologists, who are now embarking on their careers, to enter the next phase of their lives with con- fidence and an unwavering commitment to work hard, wherever they are deployed, and not to fail or falter in sat- isfactorily executing every task which they are required to handle. He further urged the gradu- ates to use the knowledge and skills which they have gained in the past four years to make the best possible use of the vast array of attractive oppor- tunities which are presently becoming available and will contribute towards making the “Make in India” initiatives a grand success. "I believe that institutions of higher learning must not merely enable their students to successfully complete their respective courses of study but groom them to become skilled persons who are dedicated and have a high sense of responsi- bility which is rooted in strong character and ethical values," he said, added "I also believe that institutions of education and learning must inculcate unwavering integrity which would enable all profession- als, to whichever stream they may belong, to effectively resist and successfully thwart any unethical practice, no mat- ter whether they work for the government, the corporate sector or for themselves. Their professional integrity must remain inviolable, whatever be the pressures or compul- sions." Director, NIT, Srinagar presented the report giving the achievements and initiatives of the Institution. Prof. D.P. Agrawal, ex- Chairman UPSC and Dr. M.J. Zarabi, Chairman Board of Governors, NIT, Srinagar also spoke on the occasion. DAILY EXCELSIOR, JAMMU SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2015 (PAGE 3) Dr Jitendra announces Rs 40 lakh MPLAD, KV for Bani Excelsior Correspondent BANI, Oct 3: During his two days tour of Bani Assembly Constituency in district Kathua, Union Minister in PMO with independent charge of North Eastern States, Dr Jitendra Singh today announced Rs.40 lakh MPLAD for Bani in addi- tion to the proposal for a Kendriya Vidyalaya, Regional language Radio FM channel and a Railway link. Dr Singh who represents Kathua-Udhampur -Doda Parliamentary Constituency announced this while addressing a mammoth public rally here today. Dr Jitendra Singh said out of Rs.40 lakh MPLAD, , Rs.20 lakh will be disbursed immediately and will be meant for starting the work for construction of two class rooms in High school in Dapar and Duggain Blocks in addition to fencing of ground at Chonuri. At the same time, toilet complex works at Doullah and Jodian Mata in Duggain Block will also be taken up in near future. Dr. Jitendra Singh suggested to the local MLA Jeevan Lal who was also present on the occasion to develop a concept paper for an Inter-State Tourist Circuit including Bani and the adjacent areas of Himachal Pradesh, so that the natural sce- nic beauty of Bani could be uti- lized to promote tourism employment and revenue gener- ation. For the abundant quantity of fruit which goes waste, he suggested a fruit marketing plan under which he would himself facilitate a group of young enter- prising activists from the Constituency to sit with the members of fruit industry in Chandigarh and Delhi in order to promote the export of fruit and fruit juices on the pattern as is practised in Himachal Pradesh. As far as VDCs and SPOs , Dr. Jitendra Singh said, their salary was hiked to double last year, but did not receive the emoluments because the State Government said that it had no finances for the purpose. He suggested that the State Government should earmark a separate amount for the purpose in the forthcoming Central Package for Jammu & Kashmir. About the roads, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, PMGSY road proj- ects had been expedited on fast track and asked the local MLA to get DPRs prepared for the roads to be taken up under CRF by the Union Ministry of Road Transport. MLA Bani Jeevan Lal, District President BJP Mankotia and Block President Thakur Das have also spo- ken on the occa- sion. During his arrival yesterday Dr Jitendra Singh visited Sewa Hydel Project and interacted with the Engineers and officers there. He was given a warm reception by the senior engi- neers and employees of the Project led by P K Langer Chief Engineer. Later, the Union Minister took round of the Project and listened to the prob- lems of the engineers and other staff members. He assured them that he will take up their problems with the concerned Ministry at Delhi. Union Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh being taken in a welcome procession in Bani on Saturday by his supporters. —Excelsior/Madan CS stresses on extra ordinary care to preserve green cover Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Chief Secretary, B R Sharma today chaired the 90th meeting of the Forest Advisory Committee here. The Committee gave forest clearance to various proposals to allow use of forest land for developmental purposes includ- ing construction of roads, Siar Dabri-Bhawan ropeway, 2MW Butakulan- Kangan HEP and Pakal Dul HEP. The FAC reiterated the direction on minimum felling of trees, calling upon the user agencies to ensure that extraor- dinary care is taken to save the precious green cover in the for- est areas, while undertaking construction of development works. “ As far as possible alignment of roads should be such, as would entail felling of least number of trees,” Chief Secretary stressed. He emphasised on undertak- ing compensatory afforestation in the forests, where develop- ment works are being taken up so that appropriate tree density is maintained in the area and any probable negative impact on the site ecology is considerably reduced. The FAC also stressed on the user agencies to ensure eco- restoration of muck dumping sites including stabilization of slopes by construction of retain- ing walls and where ever possi- ble to plant sapplings at these sites. “Forest Department should regularly monitor the eco restoration of the dumping sites,” Chief Secretary said. New recruits of the Border Security Force (BSF) take oath during passing out parade in Humhama, on the outskirts of Srinagar, on Saturday. —Excelsior/Amin War 338 BSF recruits pass out from STC Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: After completing 24 weeks of rigorous training, 338 Border Security Force recruits today took oath to serve the country at an attesta- tion-cum-passing out parade held at Subsidiary Training Centre near Airport here. Jagat Singh, Inspector General of BSF Kashmir Frontier, took the salute at the well turned out parade at STC Humhama here and wished them success in their future endeav- ours, a BSF spokesperson said. While congratulating the jawans, the IG also lauded the role of officers and training staff of the STC in shaping these young men to shoulder the responsibility and live to the expectations of the nation. Recruit Head Constable/ Radio Operator Ajit Kumar com- manded the parade. The IG later awarded medals for all round first and second best performance, best shooter, best in Physical endurance and best in drill, he said. These 338 recruits, including 33 Assistant Sub Inspectors, have successfully completed the rigor- ous basic training in which they were put through various aspects of training, involving physical fit- ness and mental robustness, effec- tive use of arms and map reading, a BSF spokesperson said. They were also imparted training in field engineering, field craft, minor tactics, anti terrorism, counter insurgency, commando operations and respect for Human Rights to become a ‘true borderman’ and carry forward the legacy of elite, he said. He informed that STC Humhama was established on June 10, 1990 to impart basic training to recruits and cater to the training needs of the BSF in the Valley. This Centre has so far trained 15,089 Recruits, 928 Communication personnel and 4,307 Group ‘C’ Staff, which include 2,178 Kashmiri youths including surrendered militants who are now per- forming their duty in various parts of the country, the spokesperson said. MLC pedals to LC to say "no" to VIP culture Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: To pro- mote awareness about preserva- tion of environment and say 'no' to VIP culture, a BJP MLC rode a bicycle to reach the Legislative Council to attend the first day of the Autumn session which began here this morning. Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed and his col- leagues praised BJP MLC Surinder Ambardar for his act. As the house met this morn- ing, Ambardar rose to speak on the obituary references, Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh informed the Chief Minister that the legislator, a Kashmiri migrant Pandit, rode on a bicycle to reach the Council from the MLA hostel. Sayeed praised Ambardar for his move, saying it was a nice gesture on his part. "My decision behind pedaling my way to the Council was to convey a message that we need to preserve our environment and say no to the VIP culture," Ambardar, who was carrying BJP flag on top of the bicycle, said. This is for the first time that any legislator has reached the Council on a bicycle. Ambardar, who was wearing white Kurta-Pajama with a saf- fron-coloured waistcoat, said he want to reform the society and educate the people about the urgent need for preservation of the environment for the future generations. "Kashmir is a favourite tourism destination. There is immediate need to take these type of initiatives so that there is pro- motion of green energy which will eventually reduce the carbon emission," he said. The BJP legislator suggested the legislators to use the bicycle at least once during the current session to inspire the people at large. "Such an initiative will inspire the people and help in reduction in pollution," he said. He said, he was personally against any kind of VIP culture and such type of initiatives would promote "No VIP culture" so that "common people do not suffer just because a particular Legislator is going to office". Ambardar expressed hope that his initiative would inspire many more to promote green energy. "If we protect our environ- ment, we save ourselves from nature's fury," he said. Asked about the security, the legislator said he strongly believes that his life is in the hands of almighty. "I felt no threat while pedal- ing my way to the Council. There is no reason to be afriad as life and death is in the hands of almighty," he said. J&K Bank and Bajaj Allianz officers signing MoU during a function in Srinagar on Saturday. J&K Bank renews tie-up with Bajaj Allianz Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Cementing their business rela- tions further, the J&K Bank and Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Ltd (BAGICL) have renewed their Bancassurance tie-up for three more years. Having already completed the business association of 14 years, the Executive President Parvez Ahmad and Senior President SK Bhat, the bank's Vice President (Insurance) Chetan Paljor signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with President and Chief Marketing Officer BAGICL Anamika Roy Rashtrawar here at the bank's headquarters for three more years. Regional Head (J&K/Punjab), BAGICL Aijaz Ahmad Khan was also present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Executive President said, "I am glad to be taking our partnership with BAGICL forward for another 3 years. We value our partnership with the company for, during the deluge aftermath last year, they stood by us by paying the claims of our cus- tomers in time thus helping them in rebuilding their lives and I hope the tie-up would prove better in future for our valuable customers", he added. Anamika Roy said, "We are extremely delighted to renew our partnership with J&K Bank, a leading financial services provider and a household name in the Valley. This partnership has helped us provide insurance solutions to a large number of people in J&K over the years. The testimony to our strong partnership was the fact that Bajaj Allianz was able to reach out to its customers and pay over 28,000 claims worth Rs. 1,000 crore with the support of the bank in the aftermath of the floods last year." In response to the sugges- tions put forth by Bank, Ms Roy agreed to introduce slew of measures aimed at adding to the delight of customers which include leveraging of technolo- gy to issue policies on real time basis, imparting training to their own people and also to employ- ees of Bank regarding the latest developments and innovations in insurance industry. Div Com reviews progress on NH Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Asgar Samoon today reviewed progress of construction and upgradation of Srinagar- Banihal National Highway. Officers of NHAI & RAMKY attended the meeting. He directed the concerned to remove all hurdles in land acquisi- tion and removal of structures and directed concerned Deputy Commissioners and police officers involved in the process to have close liaison with each other for achieving better progress. He also took note of progress on the proj- ect and was assured of its early completion. Divisional Commissioner was informed by representatives of NHAI that cost of project is Rs.1600 crore for 4-lanning of 65 Km road from Banihal Tunnel to Srinagar and M/s RAMKY is con- structing the road and work is in full swing with five major and five minor bridges besides, two rail- way overhead bridges, three bridges at Padgampora, Goripora (Awantipora) and Qazigund will be completed by July next year. Other 7 minor bridges and 2 railway overhead bridges under construction will be completed by next year. Rs 903 crore have been utilized so far and 24 Kms surface has been macadamized while 09 Kms will be macadamized this month. Bridges at Sangam and Galander will be completed by December 2015 and acquisition of land and structures is being expe- dited for patches in remaining 3 Kms within this month. Deputy Commissioners of Budgam, Anantnag & Pulwama were directed to remove all bottlenecks immediately so that entire corridor is provided to NHAI. Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir reiterated to the con- cerned agencies to make all efforts in close coordination with line departments and stakeholders to complete the prestigious project at an earliest. He also directed the Revenue officers and police offi- cers to remove the hurdles in road widening at Panthachowk at the earliest for smooth traffic. Geographical Indication granted for Kashmir carpets Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today said the 'Geographical Indication' (GI) for Kashmir carpets has been granted by concerned authori- ties after 'vigorous efforts'. "In 2013, the KCCI created a society under the name and style 'Meeras' in order to be able to seek Geographical Indication (GI) registration for carpets manufactured in the State so as to establish its sta- tus and ensure its acceptance in the domestic and interna- tional market as a genuine quality Kashmir handmade product made of purest of the materials," KCCI said in a statement issued here. It continued: "The Geographical Indication is in fact a sign used on products that have a specific geo- graphical origin and possess qualities or reputation that are due to that origin and in order to function as a Geographical Indication a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. The process involves a series of tests to get Geographical Indication cer- tification before the product goes into the market." It is after vigorous efforts KCCI, Indian Institute of Carpet Technology and 'Meeras' through series of meetings and continued follow up with concerned authorities the Geographical Indication for Kashmir carpet has been granted, the statement reads. "The chamber would accord- ingly advise and expect all the carpet manufacturers get Geographical Indication certi- fication for their products before passing them on to var- ious markets domestic / inter- national for sale," the state- ment reads at the end. Power shut down Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 3: In order to carry out the work to check and rectify the hot spots and to replace worn out jumpers/droppers in 220 KV, 132 KV and 33 KV Bays of Grid Station Gladni, the power supply to Gandhi Nagar, Trikuta Nagar, Residency road area, Dhounthly Bazar, Karan Nagar and Kachi Chawani will remain affected on October 4 from 7 am to 1 pm. Justice Tashi reviews functioning of various courts Excelsior Correspondent KUPWARA, Oct 3: The Administrative Judge with J&K High Court, Justice Tashi Robstan today conducted an extensive tour of Kupwara, Handwara and Sogam courts to review their functioning. While witnessing the cases tabled for the day, Justice Tashi Robstan impressed upon the Judges to dispose of pending cases in a fast track manner so that desirous people get jus- tice at their doorsteps. DC Kupwara, SP Kupwara, besides various judges of the concerned courts were present on the occasion. NIT Srinagar organizes Convocation Governor presents Medals, Degrees Several mines explode on LoC Excelsior Correspondent MENDHAR, Oct 3: Dozens of land mine explosions along the Line of Control created panic in Balakote area of Mendhar in district Poonch last night. Reports said that Forest fire which started from that side of the Line of Control also went on spreading to this side of the fence. From Khala Draman area in Balakote it covered around 2- 3 sq km of area. It caused dozens of land mine explosion throughout the night. The Army went on alert as some gadgets installed along the fence also came under the fire range. The Army and Forest Department launched operation and contained the fire today. It is suspected that fire was delib- erately ignited to ensure mili- tants’ infiltration from that side. DyCM calls on Governor Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Deputy Chief Minister, Prof. Nirmal Singh, called on Governor N.N. Vohra here at the Raj Bhavan today. Prof. Singh briefed the Governor about the various steps taken in the past months to energize the functioning of the Housing & Urban and Power sectors and the initiatives recently taken for the Army occupied land to be restored to the University of Jammu whose developmental programmes have been long held back for want of land. Casual, daily wagers’ indefinite hunger strike enters 2nd day Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Oct 3: An indef- inite hunger strike by daily wagers, casual labourers, need based workers, land donors and other temporary employees entered its second day. Under the banner of Jammu and Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum (CDWF) the hunger strike was started at Partap Park near here , demanding their regularisation. A spokesperson of the CDWF said the hunger strike is indefinite as State Government has totally failed to address their issues of permanent employment of those who are working in different offices from 1994 to 2015. The spokesperson said previ- ous National Conference (NC) and Congress Coalition Government had totally deceived more than 61,000 members of the CDWF on October 27 last year when the issue of daily wagers for their permanent employee was deferred because of some dispute between two ruling party Ministers. He said now the present coali- tion Government of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and BJP is also trying to delay the issue by constituting committees. The strike will continue till their demand was accepted, he added. Chief Secretary BR Sharma chairing a meeting of Forest Advisory Committee at Srinagar on Saturday. Governor N N Vohra presenting degrees and certificates during NIT Convocation at SKICC. PIL against alleged fake category certificates DB directs State to file response within 4 weeks Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Oct 3: In a mis- cellaneous application filed by Mohd Anwar Choudhary, member of State Advisory Board for the development of Gujjar and Bakerwal against alleged fake ST category cer- tificates, Division Bench of State High Court comprising Justice Hasnain Massodi and Justice B S Walia today direct- ed State to set-up Scrutiny Committee at Division/District Level to scrutinize the social status cer- tificates (Reserved Category Certificates). After hearing Advocate SM Choudhary appearing for the PIL, DB observed, "the coun- sel appearing for the petitioner has stated that the Government order claimed to have been filed in the compliance to the direction of court is not in tune with the law laid down in Madhuri Patil's case and there- fore amounts to disobedience of the court". "The instant miscella- neous petition seeking imple- mentation of the court order dated August 24, 2012, there- fore, is in the nature of con- tempt petition as petitioner essentially seeks compliance of court order and punish- ment of respondents for dis- obedience of the court order", the DB further observed. While treating the petition as contempt petition, the DB directed State to file response within four weeks. It is worthwhile to mention here that on August 24, 2012, the Division Bench disposed of the PIL with the directions to the State to bring the mech- anism under the Reservation Act and Rules for grant/ issuance of Reserved Category Certificates at par with the directions of the Supreme Court so that chances of any mal-practice at the stage of grant/ issuance of certificates are excluded. The DB had also directed for setting-up of Scrutiny Committee at Division/District Level to scrutinize the certifi- cates already issued and fixed six months time to comply with the directions.
Transcript of Dr Jitendra announces Rs 40 lakh MPLAD, KV for Bani...
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3:National Institute ofTechnology (NIT), Srinagarorganized Convocation 2014& 2015 at SKICC here today.
Governor N.N. Vohra, whowas chief guest on the occa-
sion, presented 16 GoldMedals to the toppers of eachbranch of B. Tech and 8 GoldMedals to the toppers of eachprogramme of M. Tech to thepass out batches, besides 9 Ph.D and 3 M. Phil Degrees to
the candidates. About 1200graduates, post-graduates anddoctorates received Degrees atthe Convocation.
Congratulating all thosewho received Degrees andMedals, the Governor askedthem to work hard and achieveexcellence in their respectivefields and earn laurels for theirparents, their alma-mater andtheir country. He asked themto bring new innovations inthe present era of rapid tech-nological transformations andtake the country to newheights.
He urged young engineersand technologists, who arenow embarking on theircareers, to enter the nextphase of their lives with con-fidence and an unwaveringcommitment to work hard,wherever they are deployed,and not to fail or falter in sat-isfactorily executing everytask which they are requiredto handle.
He further urged the gradu-ates to use the knowledge andskills which they have gainedin the past four years to makethe best possible use of the
vast array of attractive oppor-tunities which are presentlybecoming available and willcontribute towards making the“Make in India” initiatives agrand success.
"I believe that institutions
of higher learning must notmerely enable their students tosuccessfully complete theirrespective courses of study butgroom them to become skilledpersons who are dedicated andhave a high sense of responsi-bility which is rooted in strongcharacter and ethical values,"he said, added "I also believethat institutions of educationand learning must inculcateunwavering integrity whichwould enable all profession-als, to whichever stream theymay belong, to effectivelyresist and successfully thwartany unethical practice, no mat-ter whether they work for thegovernment, the corporatesector or for themselves. Theirprofessional integrity mustremain inviolable, whateverbe the pressures or compul-sions."
Director, NIT, Srinagarpresented the report giving theachievements and initiativesof the Institution.
Prof. D.P. Agrawal, ex-Chairman UPSC and Dr. M.J.Zarabi, Chairman Board ofGovernors, NIT, Srinagar alsospoke on the occasion.
DAILY EXCELSIOR, JAMMU SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2015 (PAGE 3)
Dr Jitendra announces Rs 40 lakh MPLAD, KV for Bani
Excelsior Correspondent
BANI, Oct 3: During his twodays tour of Bani AssemblyConstituency in district Kathua,Union Minister in PMO withindependent charge of NorthEastern States, Dr JitendraSingh today announced Rs.40lakh MPLAD for Bani in addi-tion to the proposal for aKendriya Vidyalaya, Regionallanguage Radio FM channel and
a Railway link.Dr Singh who represents
Kathua-Udhampur -DodaParliamentary Constituencyannounced this while addressing amammoth public rally here today.
Dr Jitendra Singh said out ofRs.40 lakh MPLAD, , Rs.20 lakhwill be disbursed immediately andwill be meant for starting the workfor construction of two classrooms in High school in Daparand Duggain Blocks in addition tofencing of ground at Chonuri. At
the same time, toilet complexworks at Doullah and Jodian Matain Duggain Block will also betaken up in near future.
Dr. Jitendra Singh suggestedto the local MLA Jeevan Lalwho was also present on theoccasion to develop a conceptpaper for an Inter-State TouristCircuit including Bani and theadjacent areas of HimachalPradesh, so that the natural sce-nic beauty of Bani could be uti-
lized to promote tourismemployment and revenue gener-ation. For the abundant quantityof fruit which goes waste, hesuggested a fruit marketing planunder which he would himselffacilitate a group of young enter-prising activists from theConstituency to sit with themembers of fruit industry inChandigarh and Delhi in order topromote the export of fruit andfruit juices on the pattern as ispractised in Himachal Pradesh.
As far as VDCs and SPOs ,
Dr. Jitendra Singh said, theirsalary was hiked to double lastyear, but did not receive theemoluments because the StateGovernment said that it had nofinances for the purpose. Hesuggested that the StateGovernment should earmark aseparate amount for the purposein the forthcoming CentralPackage for Jammu & Kashmir.
About the roads, Dr. JitendraSingh said, PMGSY road proj-
ects had beenexpedited onfast track andasked the localMLA to getDPRs preparedfor the roads tobe taken upunder CRF bythe UnionMinistry ofRoad Transport.
MLA BaniJeevan Lal,D i s t r i c tPresident BJPMankotia andBlock PresidentThakur Dashave also spo-ken on the occa-
sion.During his arrival yesterday
Dr Jitendra Singh visited SewaHydel Project and interactedwith the Engineers and officersthere. He was given a warmreception by the senior engi-neers and employees of theProject led by P K Langer ChiefEngineer. Later, the UnionMinister took round of theProject and listened to the prob-lems of the engineers and otherstaff members.
He assured them that he willtake up their problems with theconcerned Ministry at Delhi.
Union Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh being taken in a welcome procession inBani on Saturday by his supporters. —Excelsior/Madan
CS stresses on extra ordinarycare to preserve green coverExcelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: ChiefSecretary, B R Sharma todaychaired the 90th meeting of theForest Advisory Committeehere.
The Committee gave forestclearance to various proposals toallow use of forest land fordevelopmental purposes includ-ing construction of roads, Siar
Dabri-Bhawan ropeway, 2MWButakulan- Kangan HEP andPakal Dul HEP.
The FAC reiterated thedirection on minimum felling oftrees, calling upon the useragencies to ensure that extraor-dinary care is taken to save theprecious green cover in the for-est areas, while undertakingconstruction of developmentworks. “ As far as possible
alignment of roads should besuch, as would entail felling ofleast number of trees,” ChiefSecretary stressed.
He emphasised on undertak-ing compensatory afforestationin the forests, where develop-ment works are being taken upso that appropriate tree densityis maintained in the area and anyprobable negative impact on thesite ecology is considerably
reduced.The FAC also stressed on the
user agencies to ensure eco-restoration of muck dumpingsites including stabilization ofslopes by construction of retain-ing walls and where ever possi-ble to plant sapplings at thesesites. “Forest Department shouldregularly monitor the ecorestoration of the dumpingsites,” Chief Secretary said.
New recruits of the Border Security Force (BSF) take oathduring passing out parade in Humhama, on the outskirts ofSrinagar, on Saturday. —Excelsior/Amin War
338 BSF recruits pass out from STC
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Aftercompleting 24 weeks of rigoroustraining, 338 Border SecurityForce recruits today took oath toserve the country at an attesta-tion-cum-passing out parade heldat Subsidiary Training Centrenear Airport here.
Jagat Singh, InspectorGeneral of BSF KashmirFrontier, took the salute at thewell turned out parade at STCHumhama here and wished themsuccess in their future endeav-ours, a BSF spokesperson said.
While congratulating thejawans, the IG also lauded therole of officers and training staffof the STC in shaping theseyoung men to shoulder theresponsibility and live to theexpectations of the nation.
Recruit Head Constable/Radio Operator Ajit Kumar com-manded the parade.
The IG later awarded medalsfor all round first and second bestperformance, best shooter, best inPhysical endurance and best indrill, he said.
These 338 recruits, including33 Assistant Sub Inspectors, havesuccessfully completed the rigor-ous basic training in which theywere put through various aspectsof training, involving physical fit-ness and mental robustness, effec-
tive use of arms and map reading,a BSF spokesperson said.
They were also impartedtraining in field engineering,field craft, minor tactics, antiterrorism, counter insurgency,commando operations andrespect for Human Rights tobecome a ‘true borderman’ andcarry forward the legacy ofelite, he said.
He informed that STCHumhama was established onJune 10, 1990 to impart basictraining to recruits and cater tothe training needs of the BSF inthe Valley.
This Centre has so fartrained 15,089 Recruits, 928Communication personneland 4,307 Group ‘C’ Staff,which include 2,178 Kashmiriyouths including surrenderedmilitants who are now per-forming their duty in variousparts of the country, thespokesperson said.
MLC pedals to LC to say "no" to VIP cultureExcelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: To pro-mote awareness about preserva-tion of environment and say 'no'to VIP culture, a BJP MLC rode abicycle to reach the LegislativeCouncil to attend the first day ofthe Autumn session which beganhere this morning.
Chief Minister MuftiMohammed Sayeed and his col-leagues praised BJP MLCSurinder Ambardar for his act.
As the house met this morn-ing, Ambardar rose to speak onthe obituary references, DeputyChief Minister Nirmal Singhinformed the Chief Minister thatthe legislator, a Kashmirimigrant Pandit, rode on a bicycleto reach the Council from theMLA hostel.
Sayeed praised Ambardar forhis move, saying it was a nicegesture on his part.
"My decision behind pedalingmy way to the Council was toconvey a message that we need topreserve our environment and sayno to the VIP culture," Ambardar,who was carrying BJP flag on topof the bicycle, said.
This is for the first time thatany legislator has reached theCouncil on a bicycle.
Ambardar, who was wearingwhite Kurta-Pajama with a saf-fron-coloured waistcoat, said hewant to reform the society andeducate the people about the
urgent need for preservation ofthe environment for the futuregenerations.
"Kashmir is a favouritetourism destination. There isimmediate need to take these typeof initiatives so that there is pro-motion of green energy whichwill eventually reduce the carbonemission," he said.
The BJP legislator suggestedthe legislators to use the bicycleat least once during the currentsession to inspire the people atlarge.
"Such an initiative will inspirethe people and help in reductionin pollution," he said.
He said, he was personallyagainst any kind of VIP cultureand such type of initiatives wouldpromote "No VIP culture" so that"common people do not sufferjust because a particularLegislator is going to office".
Ambardar expressed hopethat his initiative would inspiremany more to promote greenenergy.
"If we protect our environ-ment, we save ourselves fromnature's fury," he said.
Asked about the security, thelegislator said he stronglybelieves that his life is in thehands of almighty.
"I felt no threat while pedal-ing my way to the Council. Thereis no reason to be afriad as lifeand death is in the hands ofalmighty," he said.
J&K Bank and Bajaj Allianz officers signing MoU during afunction in Srinagar on Saturday.
J&K Bank renews tie-up with Bajaj Allianz
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3:Cementing their business rela-tions further, the J&K Bank andBajaj Allianz General InsuranceCompany Ltd (BAGICL) haverenewed their Bancassurancetie-up for three more years.
Having already completedthe business association of 14years, the Executive PresidentParvez Ahmad and SeniorPresident SK Bhat, the bank'sVice President (Insurance)Chetan Paljor signed theMemorandum of Understanding(MoU) with President and ChiefMarketing Officer BAGICLAnamika Roy Rashtrawar hereat the bank's headquarters forthree more years. RegionalHead (J&K/Punjab), BAGICLAijaz Ahmad Khan was alsopresent on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion,Executive President said, "I amglad to be taking our partnershipwith BAGICL forward foranother 3 years. We value ourpartnership with the companyfor, during the deluge aftermathlast year, they stood by us bypaying the claims of our cus-
tomers in time thus helpingthem in rebuilding their livesand I hope the tie-up wouldprove better in future for ourvaluable customers", he added.
Anamika Roy said, "We areextremely delighted to renewour partnership with J&K Bank,a leading financial servicesprovider and a household namein the Valley. This partnershiphas helped us provide insurancesolutions to a large number ofpeople in J&K over the years.The testimony to our strongpartnership was the fact thatBajaj Allianz was able to reachout to its customers and pay over28,000 claims worth Rs. 1,000crore with the support of thebank in the aftermath of thefloods last year."
In response to the sugges-tions put forth by Bank, Ms Royagreed to introduce slew ofmeasures aimed at adding to thedelight of customers whichinclude leveraging of technolo-gy to issue policies on real timebasis, imparting training to theirown people and also to employ-ees of Bank regarding the latestdevelopments and innovationsin insurance industry.
Div Com reviews progress on NHExcelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3:Divisional Commissioner,Kashmir, Asgar Samoon todayreviewed progress of constructionand upgradation of Srinagar-Banihal National Highway.Officers of NHAI & RAMKYattended the meeting.
He directed the concerned toremove all hurdles in land acquisi-tion and removal of structures anddirected concerned DeputyCommissioners and police officersinvolved in the process to haveclose liaison with each other forachieving better progress. He alsotook note of progress on the proj-ect and was assured of its earlycompletion.
Divisional Commissioner wasinformed by representatives ofNHAI that cost of project isRs.1600 crore for 4-lanning of 65Km road from Banihal Tunnel toSrinagar and M/s RAMKY is con-structing the road and work is infull swing with five major and fiveminor bridges besides, two rail-way overhead bridges, threebridges at Padgampora, Goripora
(Awantipora) and Qazigund willbe completed by July next year.
Other 7 minor bridges and 2railway overhead bridges underconstruction will be completed bynext year. Rs 903 crore have beenutilized so far and 24 Kms surfacehas been macadamized while 09Kms will be macadamized thismonth.
Bridges at Sangam andGalander will be completed byDecember 2015 and acquisition ofland and structures is being expe-dited for patches in remaining 3Kms within this month. DeputyCommissioners of Budgam,Anantnag & Pulwama weredirected to remove all bottlenecksimmediately so that entire corridoris provided to NHAI.
Divisional Commissioner,Kashmir reiterated to the con-cerned agencies to make all effortsin close coordination with linedepartments and stakeholders tocomplete the prestigious project atan earliest. He also directed theRevenue officers and police offi-cers to remove the hurdles in roadwidening at Panthachowk at theearliest for smooth traffic.
Geographical Indication granted for Kashmir carpets Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: TheKashmir Chamber ofCommerce and Industry(KCCI) today said the'Geographical Indication' (GI)for Kashmir carpets has beengranted by concerned authori-ties after 'vigorous efforts'.
"In 2013, the KCCI createda society under the name andstyle 'Meeras' in order to beable to seek GeographicalIndication (GI) registration forcarpets manufactured in theState so as to establish its sta-tus and ensure its acceptancein the domestic and interna-tional market as a genuinequality Kashmir handmadeproduct made of purest of thematerials," KCCI said in astatement issued here.
It continued: "TheGeographical Indication is infact a sign used on productsthat have a specific geo-graphical origin and possess
qualities or reputation thatare due to that origin and inorder to function as aGeographical Indication asign must identify a productas originating in a givenplace. The process involves aseries of tests to getGeographical Indication cer-tification before the productgoes into the market."
It is after vigorous effortsKCCI, Indian Institute ofCarpet Technology and'Meeras' through series ofmeetings and continued followup with concerned authoritiesthe Geographical Indicationfor Kashmir carpet has beengranted, the statement reads."The chamber would accord-ingly advise and expect all thecarpet manufacturers getGeographical Indication certi-fication for their productsbefore passing them on to var-ious markets domestic / inter-national for sale," the state-ment reads at the end.
Power shut downExcelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 3: In order tocarry out the work to checkand rectify the hot spots and toreplace worn outjumpers/droppers in 220 KV,132 KV and 33 KV Bays ofGrid Station Gladni, the powersupply to Gandhi Nagar,Trikuta Nagar, Residency roadarea, Dhounthly Bazar, KaranNagar and Kachi Chawani willremain affected on October 4from 7 am to 1 pm.
Justice Tashi reviewsfunctioning of various courts
Excelsior Correspondent
KUPWARA, Oct 3: TheAdministrativeJudge with J&KHigh Court,Justice TashiRobstan todayconducted anextensive tourof Kupwara, Handwara andSogam courts to review theirfunctioning.
While witnessing the casestabled for the day, Justice TashiRobstan impressed upon theJudges to dispose of pendingcases in a fast track manner sothat desirous people get jus-tice at their doorsteps.
DC Kupwara, SP Kupwara,besides various judges of theconcerned courts were presenton the occasion.
NIT Srinagar organizes Convocation
Governor presents Medals, Degrees
Several mines explode on LoC
Excelsior Correspondent
MENDHAR, Oct 3: Dozensof land mine explosions alongthe Line of Control created panicin Balakote area of Mendhar indistrict Poonch last night.
Reports said that Forest firewhich started from that side ofthe Line of Control also went onspreading to this side of thefence. From Khala Draman areain Balakote it covered around 2-3 sq km of area. It causeddozens of land mine explosionthroughout the night. The Armywent on alert as some gadgetsinstalled along the fence alsocame under the fire range.
The Army and ForestDepartment launched operationand contained the fire today. Itis suspected that fire was delib-erately ignited to ensure mili-tants’ infiltration from that side.
DyCM calls on GovernorExcelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: Deputy Chief Minister, Prof. NirmalSingh, called on Governor N.N. Vohra here at the Raj Bhavantoday.
Prof. Singh briefed the Governor about the various steps takenin the past months to energize the functioning of the Housing &Urban and Power sectors and the initiatives recently taken for theArmy occupied land to be restored to the University of Jammuwhose developmental programmes have been long held back forwant of land.
Casual, daily wagers’ indefinite hunger strike enters 2nd day Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 3: An indef-inite hunger strike by dailywagers, casual labourers, needbased workers, land donors andother temporary employeesentered its second day.
Under the banner of Jammuand Kashmir Casual Daily WagersForum (CDWF) the hunger strikewas started at Partap Park near here, demanding their regularisation.
A spokesperson of the CDWFsaid the hunger strike is indefiniteas State Government has totallyfailed to address their issues ofpermanent employment of thosewho are working in different
offices from 1994 to 2015. The spokesperson said previ-
ous National Conference (NC) andCongress Coalition Governmenthad totally deceived more than61,000 members of the CDWF onOctober 27 last year when the issueof daily wagers for their permanentemployee was deferred because ofsome dispute between two rulingparty Ministers.
He said now the present coali-tion Government of PeoplesDemocratic Party (PDP) and BJPis also trying to delay the issue byconstituting committees.
The strike will continue tilltheir demand was accepted, headded.
Chief Secretary BR Sharma chairing a meeting of ForestAdvisory Committee at Srinagar on Saturday.
Governor N N Vohra presenting degrees and certificates during NIT Convocation at SKICC.
PIL against alleged fake category certificates
DB directs State to file response within 4 weeksExcelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 3: In a mis-cellaneous application filed byMohd Anwar Choudhary,member of State AdvisoryBoard for the development ofGujjar and Bakerwal againstalleged fake ST category cer-tificates, Division Bench ofState High Court comprisingJustice Hasnain Massodi andJustice B S Walia today direct-ed State to set-up ScrutinyCommittee atDivision/District Level toscrutinize the social status cer-tificates (Reserved CategoryCertificates).
After hearing Advocate SMChoudhary appearing for thePIL, DB observed, "the coun-sel appearing for the petitionerhas stated that the Governmentorder claimed to have beenfiled in the compliance to thedirection of court is not in tunewith the law laid down inMadhuri Patil's case and there-fore amounts to disobedienceof the court".
"The instant miscella-neous petition seeking imple-mentation of the court order
dated August 24, 2012, there-fore, is in the nature of con-tempt petition as petitioneressentially seeks complianceof court order and punish-ment of respondents for dis-obedience of the courtorder", the DB furtherobserved.
While treating the petitionas contempt petition, the DBdirected State to file responsewithin four weeks.
It is worthwhile to mentionhere that on August 24, 2012,the Division Bench disposedof the PIL with the directionsto the State to bring the mech-anism under the ReservationAct and Rules for grant/issuance of Reserved CategoryCertificates at par with thedirections of the SupremeCourt so that chances of anymal-practice at the stage ofgrant/ issuance of certificatesare excluded.
The DB had also directedfor setting-up of ScrutinyCommittee at Division/DistrictLevel to scrutinize the certifi-cates already issued andfixed six months time tocomply with the directions.
