Governor greets people on Shab-i-Miraj

SRINAGAR, JULY 20 – The Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra, has felicitated the people of Jammu and Kashmir on Shab-i-Miraj.

In his message of greetings, the Governor hoped that this auspicious occasion would further strengthen the bonds of amity, harmony and brotherhood and be a harbinger of peace, progress and prosperity in the State.

Omar felicitates people on Mehraj-i-Aalam

SRINAGAR, JULY 20 – Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah has felicitated the people on the eve of Mehraj-i-Aalam describing the day as a sacred occasion for seeking God’s blessings and forgiveness.

In a message on the occasion Mr. Omer Abdullah has highlighted the principals of Islam and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the grand greatest apostles of the Almighty pertaining to human service and welfare of poor and needy.

Chief Minister reminded the people of the highest degree of forgiveness, compassion and benevolence practiced and taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through his life style and teachings. He while congratulating the people of Jammu and Kashmir in general and Muslims in particular on this day prayed for the well being of the people and peace and prosperity of the State.

Jora felicitates people on Shab-i- Mehraj

            Srinagar, July 20- Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has felicitated the people of State especially Muslims on the auspicious occasion of Shab-i-Mehraj.

            In a message, Mr. Jora said that the Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) has shown us the right path of living a meaningful life. He said the Prophet’s teachings were aimed to spread the message of peace, justice, truth-fullness, brotherhood and amity across the world. He called upon the people to follow the path shown by great Prophets, Saints and Gurus for leading a peaceful and purposeful life in the world.

Jora seeks cooperation from all stake holders to promote tourism industry

Holds meet with House Boat Association

             SRINAGAR, JULY 20– The Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has said that government has initiated numerous measures for promoting tourism industry in the state. He sought cooperation from all the stake holders associated with tourism trade for bringing the industry at par with the international standards.

            This was stated by the Minister during his meeting with the representatives of House Boat Association, Srinagar held here today.

            Director Tourism Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah, Chairman House Boats Association, Mr. Azim Tuman and Vice Chairman, Mr. G.M. Puktoo were present in the meeting.

            The meeting discussed various issues related to house boat owners of Srinagar and its surrounding areas.

            The Minister was informed that a dock yard would be constructed for repairs of house boats at an estimated cost of Rs. 1.20 crore at Srinagar adding that Rs. 25 lakh have been already released by the government and kept under the disposal of Lakes and Water Ways Authority Srinagar. It was told that the matter for issuing timber for repairs of house boats on concessional rates on the pattern of Pencil Industry would be taken up with the Chief Minister.

            Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jora directed the concerned authorities to constitute a committee for considering the demand of the association for rebuilding and repairs of old house boats. He assured that rehabilitation and compensation of de-registered house boats owners would be taken up with the concerned authorities on priority. He said that a toilet block at TRC would be constructed and also agreed for setting up of house boat assistance booths at Nehru Park and Ashai Bagh.

            The Minister directed Director Tourism Kashmir to ensure the implementation of all his directions well in time for fulfilling the demands of the association.

Speaker facilitate people on Mehraj-ul-Alam

            Srinagar, July 20-On the eve of Mehraj-ul-Alam, Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone today facilitated the people of the state especially Muslims.

            In his message, Mr. Lone called upon the people to follow the teachings of the revered Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

            In this regard, the Speaker also directed the district administration Bandipora to ensure adequate drinking water, uninterrupted power supply and cleanliness of the lanes and drain in Sonawari constituency during the holy days of Mehraj-ul-Alam.

Dy CM greets people on Shab-i- Mehraj

            Srinagar, July 20- Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand on the occasion of Shab-i-Mehraj has greeted the people of the state especially Muslim brothren.

            Mr. Tara Chand in his message said that teachings of Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (PBUH) spread message of love, peace and compassion thus promoting ethos of mutual co-existence. He said that mankind can benefit from the teachings of Prophet as they show us the right way of living.

96^th KVIB Board of Directors meet held

1903 KVIB income generating units under PMEGS coming up: Slathia

            SRINAGAR, JULY 20– J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board (KVIB) has envisaged to set up 1903 income generating unit involving a bank loan of Rs. 53.15 crore with margin money of Rs. 18.60 crore under Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGS) during the current financial year. The newly established units would provide employment to 11184 persons.

 This was revealed in the 96^th Board of Directors meeting held here today under the Chairmanship of Minister for Industries & Commerce, Mr. Surjit Singh Salathia.

 Addressing the meeting, Mr. Slathia   called for establishing viable and cost effective income generating units for creating employment opportunities for the youth of the state. He called upon the unemployed educated youth to take up entrepreneurship in a big way for improving the economic profile of the state and added that every effort would be made to encourage them by providing technical know-how and financial assistance. He underscored the need for establishing pollution-free units.

 Appreciating the working of the Board, the Minister said that KVIB has emerged as the nerve centre for micro industrialization and employment generation in rural areas. He stressed the need for creating awareness about the schemes being implemented by KVIB in far flung and remote areas of the state. He asked the CEO, KVIB to reach out to the weaker and under privileged sections of the society and added that KVIB must vigorously follow the cluster development approach to foster the development of potential and viable industrial units falling within the preview of KVIB.

 During the meeting, Secretary, KVIB, Dr. A. Rashid, informed the meeting that the Board organised 24 training courses of three months duration imparted training to 609 beneficiaries under various crafts with an expenditure of Rs. 4 lakh He informed that 1526 beneficiaries were also imparted Entrepreneurship Development training for successful establishment of units under PMEGP. He said that 4 cluster development programmes have been started in the state under SFURTI scheme. 109 artisan work sheds stand sanctioned by the Khadi & Village Industries Commission for the artisans living below poverty line, he added.

 Dr. Rashid further informed that the production under Khadi & Village Industries sector has touched Rs. 38686.28 lakh per annum. He said against the target of establishment of 262 units involving margin of Rs. 3.14 crore, the banks sanctioned 1544 cases with the margin money of Rs. 10.85 crore thus envisaging employment opportunities to 9966 persons.

            Among others, Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Mr. Anil Goswami, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu, Sardar B. S. Dua, Director, Industries & Commerce, Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmad, Registrar, Cooperative Socities, Mr. M. S. Rather besides, Board members attended the meeting.       

Massive plan to tap hydro & solar potential to the address power requirements: Mubarak Gul

            Srinagar, July 20- Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul today called for exploiting vast hydro electric power potential of the state by launching mini power projects in every nook and corner of the state. He said that there is an urgent need to tape solar energy for meeting the power requirements of the state.

            Speaking at a massive rally of the employees of Power Development Department here today, the Advisor said that the state is 22000 MW power potential and the present dispensation has embarked upon a massive plan to exploit this potential through Private Public Partnership (PPP). He called upon the employees to work with dedication and discharge their social obligations to come to the expectations of the people.

            Earlier, the Advisor distributed trophies and mementos among the winners of 29^th D.P Dhar memorial Football Tournament played between Kashmir United and Chinar Sports teams at Bakshi Stadium Srinagar. The final match was won by Kashmir United through tie-breaker with a margin of 5-3.

            He exhorted upon the youth to take part in extra co-curricular activities which he said was imperative for building of healthy body and a healthy mind.

            Later, several deputations from various parts of the Valley including physically challenged and old-age people apprised him about their problem. The Advisor heard them patiently and assured them that their genuine demands would be looked into sympathetically.

Ministers greet people on Shab-i-Mehraj

Srinagar, July 20 - The Cabinet Ministers have extended the greetings to the people of the state in general and muslim brethren in particular on the auspicious occasion of Mehraj-ul-Alam.

The Ministers include Minister for Finance, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather, Minister for School Education, Peerzada Mohammed Sayeed, Minister for Rural Development, Mr. Ali Mohammed Sagar, Minister for Industries & Commerce, Mr. Surjit Singh Slathia, Minister for Forest, Mian Altaf Ahmad, Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud–Din, Minister for Transport, Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon, Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for Technical Education, Mr.  Rajinder Singh Chib, Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo, Minister for Revenue & Relief, Mr. Raman Bhalla, Minister for R&B, Mr. G. M. Saroori, Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Abdul Gani Malik and Minister for Animal Husbandry, Aga Syed Ruhulla Mehdi.

In a joint message, they said that the Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) has shown us the right path of living a meaningful life. They said the Prophet’s teachings were aimed to spread the message of peace, justice, truth-fullness, brotherhood and amity across the world. Enjoining upon the people, they appealed to follow the path shown by great Prophets, Saints and Gurus for leading a peaceful and purposeful life in the world.

The Ministers of State for Higher Education, Dr, Manohar Lal Sharma, Ministers of State for Haj & Aquaf, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan, Ministers of State for Forest, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan, Ministers of State for Housing & Urban Development, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani and Ministers of State for R&B, Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar have also extended their greetings on the occasion.

Shri Amarnathji Yatra-2009

8032 Yatris perform darshan on Sunday 

                SRINAGAR, JULY 20 - According to a Spokesperson of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Yatra to the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnathji is going on smoothly and 8,032 Yatris performed darshan on Sunday.

            The Spokesperson stated that 3,433 pilgrims left from the Baltal Base Camp and 2,818 from the Nunwan Base Camp this morning on their journey to the Holy Cave Shrine. He added that another batch of 911 Yatris left from Jammu to the Pahalgam and Baltal Base Camps today.

Govt committed to promote young poets of regional languages: Peerzada

            Srinagar, July 20- Minister for Education and Public Enterprises, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed has complimented the Sahitya Academy for doing a commendable job in the promotion of young talent contribution in the regional languages of the state.

            Peezada was addressing at a literary programme “Mulaqat” organized by Sahitya Academy of New Delhi in collaboration with Meezan Publishers Srinagar at Government College of Education Srinagar today.

            He said that organizing such programmes will help the young generation to know more about Kashir through about its art, natural environment, culture and literature.

            He said there is need for promotion of local languages and literature.

            Prominent among those present on the occasion were Prof. Zaman Azooidha, Director School Education, Kashmir, Dr. Shugufta Parveen, Secretary Board of School Education, Dr. Bashir Ahmad, poets and academicians.

            Peerzada laid emphasis on a holistic way of approaching education as a system of learning and developing life skills. He said that morals of a culture are the binding forces that keep the people together. Adding that Kashir has been abode of stalemates of literature and every effort will be made to provide the launching pad for the young and juvenile poets of regional languages including Kashmiri. He said such literary programmes shall be organised to expose the hidden talent so that Kashmiri literature can flourish in the present era.

            Dr. Aziz Hajni convenor Kashmiri Advisory Board speaking on the occasion said that the Academy work for the development of 24 scheduled Indian languages including Kashmiri.

            Earlier, a Mulaqat Programme” was organized where six young writers of Kashmiri languages presented their poetry.

5^th SARs Mela inaugurates

Govt committed to provide marketing and Logistic help to artisans: Sagar 

            Srinagar, July 20- Asserting that government is fully committed to promote Self-Employment avenues to the local artisans at in the National and global level, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayats, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar said that we are fully aware of the needs of artisans and will take every necessary steps to market  their produce with the necessary logistic help.

            The Minister was speaking after inaugurating the 5^th SARS Mela organized by the department of Rural Development in which artisans from 14 states including the North-Eastern States of Assam and Nagaland also participated. About 168 Self Help Groups are participating and 119 stalls have been provided to them to show case their products which range from handloom products, willow weaker to dry fruits and furniture.

            While complementing the Rural Development Department for organising such interstate melas, the Minister said that these type of events serve as a sort of cultural exchanges besides, providing the local artisans avenues to market their products in other states which gives a boost to their creativity as well as improve their economic condition as well. “We have to give proper publicity to these types of events as these types of events are bereft of any middle man and a common man as well as the artisans gets the benefit,” he maintained.

            The Minister said that these selfhelp groups are an effective tool to counter unemployment and we will ensure that they are provided maximum facilities so that their areas of influence gets widened and more and more people are involved resulting in the creation of employment avenues. “We will also ensure that more facilities like soft loans and other allied things are provided to these groups so that they carry on their activities smoothly,” he added.

            The Secretary Rural Development, Mr. M.S. Khan and Director Rural Development Kashmir, Ms. Dilshada Khan also spoke on the occasion and enumerated the various activities under taken by the self help groups and the incentives provided by the government to them.

Provide more legal aid to poor: Sagar 

            Srinagar, July 20- After assuming the charge of the Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar today under took a review meeting of the Law department.

            The meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary Law, Mr. A.H. Kochak, Secretary Legislative council, Mr. G. R. Mehboobi, Secretary Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Ramzan and senior officers of Law department, Legislative Council and Assembly.

             Addressing the officers, Mr. Sagar stressed the need for quick and speedy disposal of cases so that the normal functioning of the government does not get hampered due to litigation. He said that the judiciary and law department should have close coordination so that various case are disposed off quickly.

            The Minister also asked the law department to provide more legal aid to the people so that more poor people get the much needed legal advice.

            The Minister also asked the Secretaries of both the house to ensure that the business rules are properly adhered to during the ensuing session so that the normal business of the houses gets on smoothly.

            The Law department is one of the most pivotal departments of the government and we will ensure that problems if any being faced would be properly looked into, he assured the officers.

 The meeting was informed that till 2007, 2029 Lok Adalats have been held in which 61432 cases have been settled in 2008-09, 261 Lok Adalts have been held in which 8243 case have been settled. It was also given out that compensation to the tune of Rs. 74.22 crore has been paid in MACT in respect of the cases settled by these Lok Adalats.

            The meeting was also told that the legal aid has been provided to 11395 persons up to April 2009. 3807 cases have been disposed of by the State Human Rights Commission till July 2009, 1035 cases have been recommended for exgratia relief.

            It was also given out that the district court complex at Doda is under construction at an estimated cost of Rs. 2.12 crore and District court complex Srinagar stands taken up at an estimated cost of Rs. 82 crore.

            It was further told that the government has also created 12 more Courts of districts and session judge along with supporting staff. Similarly, 3 existing courts of additional district existing judge at Ramban, Kishtwar and Reasi have been designated as courts of district session judges. 2 Courts of Chief Judicial Magistrate have also been created for the district of Ganderbal and Bandipora.

            A modern legislature complex has been constructed at Srinagar within an estimated cost of Rs. 38 crore, it was told

Ruhulla holds meeting of IT Department

Srinagar, July 20- The Minister for Animal, Sheep Husbandry, Science & Information Technology, Mr. Aga Syed Ruhulla held a meeting with the officers of Information Technology Department here the other day. The Principal Secretary, Information Technology, Dr.Arun Kumar introduced the officers to the Minister and briefed him about the organizational structure, functioning and funding of the Department. He also presented an in-depth overview of the formation of Jammu and Kashmir E-Governance Agency.

Speaking on the occasion the Minister said that current era belongs to Information Technology and he is personally interested to see that the same is promoted in every activity of governance.

For streamlining the department further, the Minister asked the officials of the department to prepare a detailed and comprehensive survey report within next ten days, containing a complete road map of all activities for successful and timely completion of all ongoing projects related to information technology.

To successfully implement people friendly E-Governance programmes in the state, Mr. Ruhulla directed for deputing officers from the State to other parts of the country, where such E-Governance projects have been running successfully. He sought full support and cooperation from the department and also cautioned against dereliction of official duties. 

DGP visits Hazratbal-reviews traffic, security arrangements 

            Srinagar July 20: The Director General of Police (DGP), Mr. Kuldeep Khoda today visited Hazratbal and took stock of the arrangements made on the auspicious occasion of Shab-i-Miraj. He discussed in detail the arrangements put in place to facilitate the devotees visiting Hazratbal. He also had a meeting with the police officers and reviewed the transport, and security arrangements. The following Friday prayers arrangements were also reviewed by the DGP.

 The DGP issued explicit instructions to the transport authorities to strictly enforce the one way traffic regulation as already decided so that the devotees do not face any inconvenience.

Mr. Khoda was told that parking places have already been earmarked for better traffic management. He also reviewed the security bandubast in the Shrine Complex and peripheries. He had a round of the Shrine Complex and also interacted with the police officers and jawans deployed on duty. He said that special Police Camp has already been established at Hazratbal to facilitate the people. Mr. Khoda inspected the camps set up by the various government agencies for the convenience of the devotees.    

The DGP was accompanied by IGP Kashmir Zone, Farooq Ahmad, IG Traffic, Mohammad Amin Shah, DIG Traffic, Muneer Ahmad Khan, SSP Srinagar, Javid Riyaz, SSP Telecom, Mohammad Yaseen,  SP Hazratbal Maqsood-ul-Zaman, SP Traffic City, Showkat Hussain,Dysp Riyaz Ahmad and other Police officers. 

Javaid visits Kupwara, takes stock of pace of under execution development projects 

            Srinagar, July 20-After assuming the charge of Minister of State for Health, R&B and Agriculture, Mr. Javiad Ahmad Dar today visited Kupwara and paid a surprise visit to sub-district Hospital (SDH) Kupwara and enquire about the facilities and medicine available to the patients in the hospital. He went around various wards and enquired about the functioning of the Hospital.

            The Minister was informed that under National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) an amount of Rs 2.60 lakh was released during the year 2008-09 out of which Rs 1.80 lakh stands expanded. He was further told that at present 31 Primary Health Centre’s, 7 CHC’s and 1 district hospital is functional in the district besides 768 Ashas workers.

            Meanwhile, the Minister placed Assistant Surgeon under suspension due to unauthorized absent from duty, the District Development Commissioner was asked to take serious action against the doctor. However, many issued were discussed with the Minister regarding the vacant posts and facilities in the SDH. Later, the Minister took a meeting with Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara and other officers of various departments at Dak-Bunglow and enquires about the ongoing development works in the district.

            He was informed by the District Development Commissioner, about the pace of development works under various sectors like horticulture, education, road connectivity and power.

            The Minister exhorted upon the officers to maintain close coordination and work with zeal for implementation of the schemes in the district and also involve the general masses.

AE, PHE, Mechanical Baramulla suspended  

            Srinagar, July 20- For flouting government instructions and policies on transfers and adjustment of field staff, Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din today placed one Assistant Engineer, PHE, Mechanical Sub-Division, Baramulla Mr. Gayas-ud-Din under suspension.

            During suspension, the officer shall remain attached with the office of Chief Engineer, PHE, Kashmir.

Chairman CFFS professional colleges asks Unaided private Colleges to fulfill requisites of Fee Structure 

            Srinagar, July 20 – Adhering to the orders of the Court, the Jammu and Kashmir Chairman Fee Structure Committee for Professional Colleges, has asked all the unaided private educated institutions imparting degree and diploma and other professional courses to place before the committee the proposed fee structure for consideration and appropriate action.

            The Chairman has informed these institutions that the directions were required to be implemented by them in advance of the academic year, but instead of that, some institutions have filled their application before the Committee without showing balance sheet, income and expenditure details. With the result the committee is not in a position to fix the fee for these institutions.

            He said that the institutions which fail to file their statements as per the proforma, would not be authorised to charge the fee from the wards. These institutions shall have to furnish reply within three weeks from the issuance of the information, he added.

            The Chairman said that it has been decided that one more and final opportunity be provided to all such institutions to furnish the requisite information, complete in all respects, as per the format. This should reach the office of the Chairman by or before 10^th of August 2009.

            He reiterated that this shall be the last and final opportunity and the default shall invite consequences in accordance with the directions of Court.

            He said that those institutions who have not so far filed information as per format should file their statements as prescribed by the committee failing which their affiliation/ recognition will be recommended for cancellation.

Akhoon stresses for daily, price monitoring of essential commodities in all sale & fair price shops

Srinagar, July 20- Minister for CAPD and Transport, Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon has asked the officers of CAPD connected with monitoring of rates of essential commodities to ensure daily based checking and monitoring of rate lists on the government sale outlets as well as fair price shops. He directed the concerned to speed up the work and within a week’s period people should feel the differences.

Minister was addressing a meeting of district officers of CAPD convened to review the availability of food grains, cooking gas, kerosene oil in the valley godowns, here today.

The Minister was informed that 29.37 lakh litres k. oil has been released to valley districts for distribution among consumers. Similarly, 1.50 lakh, Gas Cylinders are available with various oil companies for sale besides 34 lakh litres of Kerosene oil.

The meeting was further informed that at present 80, 000 quintals of food grains are available in the central godowns of CAPD and so far 4, 70, 000 quintals of food grains have been despatched to districts of Kashmir province during current month. These include 4.30 lakh quintals of rice, 27060 quintals of wheat and 12000 quintals of Sugar.

For strengthening the supply system of CAPD, Mr. Akhoon instructed despatch of food grains to each store/sale centres in advance from 15^th to 30^th of every month and sale should be started from Ist of the next month.

The Minister gave thrust on evolving effective monitoring mechanism and said that stringent action will be taken against erring officer.

He stressed for regular inspection of the sale outlets and asked the Director to make inspection at least once in a week, Deputy Directors twice and Assistant Directors at least thrice in a week. He said inspection should be meaningful and purposeful. He directed that inspection report of each visit should reach to the higher authorities within two days.

Mr. Akhoon asked for conducting new survey of BPL families and weed out fake BPL families ration cards and in this connection asked for weekly report from the concerned officers.

Minister warned that strict action will be taken against these TSOs/Ads in where jurisdictions counterfoils of the ration tickets are not filled. He also asked for immediate responding of instruction of administrative department issued from time to time.

He asked the officers to maintain transparency, regularity and punctuality in their job and come up to the expectations of the people so that message goes to people that the department has very close connectivity with the masses.

The meeting among others was attended by Secretary CAPD, Mr. K. B. Jandial, Director CAPD, Kashmir, Mr. Mehraj-ud-Din Kenu and other senior officers of CAPD. 

Saroori called on Union RD minister

RDM agrees to connect J&K villages with population of 250 souls

New Delhi July 19: Centre has released balance payment of Rs. 9 crore projected in phase Ist and 2^nd under PMGSY, besides agreeing to provide Rs. 1889 crore  proposed in 6^th and 7^th phase of the scheme. This was stated by the Minister for R&B, Mr. G. M. Saroori, who called on Union Minister for Rural Development, Mr. C .P. Joshi here today. Member Parliament, Choudhry Lal Singh was also present on the occasion. The duo discussed various issues including Water Shed Development programme and demanded release of funds projected in the 6^th, 7^th, 8th, 9th and 10^th phases of the project.

            Mr Saroori said that the Union Minister has also agreed to provide funds for extending road connectivity under PMGSY to those villages in Jammu and Kashmir having the population of only 250 souls.

Ch. Lal Singh also highlighted various issues pertaining to the State and Mr. Joshi assured him for provision of more funds for the development of the State. 

Persuade farmers to take up seed production: Mir

Directs recovery of backlog Rs. 2 crores from rakh defaulters, action report within one week

            Srinagar, July 20- Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir today directed the concerned officers to persuade the farming community to take up seed production in a big way. He asked the concerned field agencies to prepare a detailed project report in this connection.

Addressing a meeting of officers of several field agencies of Agriculture department here today, Mr. Mir asked the officers to ensure that the state become self reliant in seed production and does not need to import seeds from outside. He asked the officers to improve the quality of seeds being produced by the department and directed them to check the quality of seeds being sold to farmers for which he suggested strict quality control.

Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production, Mrs. Sonali Kumar, Director, Agriculture, Kashmir, Director, Rakhs & Farms and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

The Minister also directed the recovery of backlog of Rs. Two crores from the defaulter farmers of various rakhs in the valley and initiate disciplinary action against officials reported to have embezzled the receipts. He asked the department to come up with an action taken report  in this regard within one week and accord exemplary punishment to the guilty.

Mr. Mir also asked the officers to prepare a project report about utilisation of the uncultivable land available at these rakhs & farms. The meeting was told that 1829 hectares out of total 6939 hectares under these rakhs & farms is presently uncultivable. He asked the concerned officers to explore what could be the optimal use of this land which can even generate revenue for the department. In this regard he suggested willow plantation at these places given its good market demand.

The Minister also directed classification of trees planted in the rakhs and farms and directed the felling of dry and old ones to be replaced by new and young plants.

Mr. Mir was told that about 1700 hectares are under potato cultivation in the state which produce 2, 97000 edible potatoes. The department, he was informed, has eight potato farms comprising 1943 kanals in the valley.

Mr. Mir impressed upon the officers to bring more areas under potato cultivation and involve local youth in the manufacture of processed food like potato chips. About grassland farms, he directed covering more uncultivable areas under plantation.

The Minister also asked the officers to desist from engaging casual labour with any formal approval from the Government.

Chairman J&K State Finance Commission reviews functioning of archives Deptt

            SRINAGAR, JULY 20 – A meeting of Achieves, Archaeology and Museums Department was held in the office chamber of Chairman, J&K State Finance Commission, Dr. Mehmood-ur-Rahman, here today. The members Swami Raj Sharma, Dr. Nissar Ali and Sonam Dawa were also present in the meting. The Secretary and Consultants of the Commission, the Director and Deputy Directors of the department also attended the meeting.

             It was informed in the meeting that the department of archives, Archaeology and Museums with its primary mandate to preserve the tangible cultural heritage of the J&K State is a conglomerate of three departments. The department has the distinction of possessing one of the oldest archival repositories in the sub continent with its record series dating back to Mughal period having 13 lakh files and historical records preserved in the repositories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

 It was told in the meeting that the activities of the department have increased considerably during the last 5 years.

The Director while giving the resume of the activities said the SPS Museum complex with an estimated cost of Rs. 30.87 crore is coming up at Lal Mandi on about 20 kanals of land. An expenditure of Rs. 23.87 crore have already been incurred on the Museum having an area of 1,05,000 sft, he added.

It was also informed that in view of the cultural importance of Leh and inflow of tourists at Leh, establishment of a Regional Museum is proposed to be constructed at Leh and a token provision of Rs. 185 lakh has been reflected in the plan proposals for the current year.

It was told that three Achieves repositories one each at Jammu, Srinagar and Leh possess Persian, Sadar-e-Riasat, Ex-Governory records and various other records of Civil Secretariat, Administrative Reports and Gazettes in different languages in Persian, Urdu, English, Dogri and Bodhi.

 It was unanimously felt that the department being of vital importance needs added attention so that the culture of the state is kept safe for posterity. It was also suggested to equip the department with trained and professional staff for exhibiting more efficiency.

The Chairman of the Commission assured the department that the Commission will make all necessary recommendations for promotion and preservation of rich cultural heritage of the state.

Equitable development of all regions would be ensured: Shabir Khan

            POONCH, JULY 20 - Stressing on the all-round and composite development of all regions, the Minister of State for Power, Transport, Forests, Labour and CA&PD, Mr Shabir Ahmed Khan has today announced that the present coalition would initiate development activities equitably in all the districts of the state.

            Addressing a mammoth public rally at Surankote, Poonch today, the Minister exhorted upon the general masses to strengthen the hands of the government so that the development works are completed in a time bound manner. He said that the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch will be brought on the development map, adding that special schemes will be implemented in these districts keeping in view the special development needs of the people here.

            Welcoming the revival of dialogue between India and Pakistan, Mr Khan said that people of the state has suffered tremendously and resumption of dialogue has rekindled the hope of peace returning to the subcontinent. He said that cordial relations between the neighbours has come as a sigh of relief to the people living across LoC in Poonch.

            Responding to public demands, the Minister thanked the people for the faith reposed by them in him and assured to strive hard for redressing the problems of the common man. He said that the government is working single mindedly with an agenda to address the problems concerning basic amenities like drinking water, electricity education, hospitals etc and has taken several steps to reach out the  benefits of schemes to the  masses.

            Earlier, Mr Khan was received by the people with great fanfare. He was decorated with a pahari turban and people from all cross-sections of society took him in a procession with beating of drums and sloganeering upto the venue of the public meeting.

            Various deputations also met the Minister enroute and apprised him of their problems.

Dr. Manohar tours Cooperatives in Jammu

Seeks explanation from JCC Bank Manager, Cashier

            JAMMU, JULY 20 - Minister of State for Cooperatives, Stationery and Printing, Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma today paid a surprise visit to Jammu Central Cooperative Bank branch, Mishriwala and found that the Branch Manager and Cashier were absent from duty without any specific reason. He directed the Assistant Registrar Cooperatives to seek explanation from them and submit the report within three days, adding that stern action will be taken against those shying away from duty.

            The Minister was on a tour to various Cooperatives operating in Jammu and peripheral areas.

            At Super Bazar, City Chowk, Dr. Sharma took a comprehensive round of the different items meant for sale and checked the receipts and bill register being maintained by the staff. Taking strong note of the minimal profits registered by the Super Bazar, he directed the staff to be punctual at work and work with zeal and dedication to increase the profit graph of the Cooperative.

            “No profit no loss maximum of business has gone outdated in public sector”, he said and added that Cooperatives have to gear themselves to compete in the open market for survival.

            During his tour to Jammu & Kashmir Milk Producers’ Cooperative Ltd (JKMPCL), Dr. Sharma was impressed by the professional spirit displayed by the Management in ensuring remunerative price for the milk to producers at their door steps and to provide quality milk on regular basis to consumers.

            The Chairman of JKMPCL, Dr. Mohammad Deen apprised the Minister that JKMPCL during 2008-09 procured 53.76 lakh kg milk from the milk producers and paid Rs. 734.48 lakh as cost of milk selling 51.84 lakh litre of milk worth Rs. 939.30 lakh and 0.46 lakh kg of ghee worth Rs. 68.77 lakh. During the year, the Cooperative also sold 1.08 lakh kgs curd worth Rs. 34.08 lakh and flavoured milk in non returnable bottles worth Rs. 1.45 lakhs. The total turnover for the year has been to the tune of Rs. 10.97 crores as compared to previous year turnover of Rs. 9.54 crore, he added.

            The Minister appreciated the efforts of JKMPCL in setting up a Milk Chilling Centre at Kathua which has brought a white revolution in Kathua and adjoining areas. He said that J&K has a major chunk of population dependent on dairy farming especially, the backward sections like Gujjars and Bakerwals. Organized effort to market their produce through cooperative was a successful experiment which began in Gujrat and spread to J&K, he added.

            Dr. Sharma also visited Bawa Jitto Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd. at Mishriwala which deals with fertilizer distribution, extension of credit etc. He was apprised that this society has assets worth Rs. 1.12 lakh which include one office, one shop and one godown having capacity of 1500 quintals. The society has played a vital role in socio-economic transformation of the life of the people and has not only helped at grass roots level people’s participation by providing consumers agriculture services in terms of inputs but has also catered to the credit needs of the farmers.

            The Minister said that Co-operative Movement has assumed great significance in the State as large number of farmers and weaker sections are benefiting from it. He said that the government would come up with concrete schemes and policies to strengthen the movement as it has not only enhanced the wage earning capacity of lower economic strata but helped them market their produce at remunerative costs.  

7-day Workshop on Hospital Administration inaugurated

Illegal nursing homes in State to face action: Sham

Fresh inspections to ensure strict adherence of norms

            JAMMU, JULY 20 -In view of numerous complaints received from public over the unlawful activities of various nursing homes in Jammu division, the Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma has directed the Director Health Services to notify a list of registered nursing homes within two days. He asked him to conduct inspections of all these institutions to ensure strict adherence to set norms.

            The Minister also directed closure of all institutions including Ultra Sound clinics operating clandestinely in Jammu division within fortnight.

            The Minister said this, while addressing Chief Medical Officers/Medical Superintendents, Block Medical Officers and other senior doctors of Jammu Division after inaugurating a 7-day workshop in Hospital Administration organized by the Director Health Services, Jammu at Gandhi Nagar Hospital here today.

            Giving importance to organization of such workshop regularly, Mr. Sharma said that doctors are mostly engrossed in their profession and face difficulties in handling other activities like financial matters, human resources, planning and hospital administration. He said it is mandatory for them to get acquainted with these things to tone up their administrative skills for achieving desired results. He asked them to take benefit of this workshop and utilize the experience gained in improvising the functioning of their respective institutions. He asked the Director Health Services to organize such workshops frequently to update the in-service doctors. He suggested to impart such kind of training to freshers before they join their place of postings to deal with administrative matters efficiently.

            While stressing on the need to improve work culture in Health institutions, the Minister asked heads of the institutions to maintain punctuality and apply professional approach so that others follow them. He said that government would ensure better working environment in all the health institutions and equip them with latest technologies including computerization and introduction of e-governance for quick communication within a period of one year. He asked them to work hard and be practical to deliver on ground so that the impact of better healthcare is felt by the common masses.

            Mr. Sham expressed happiness over the improvement in the system and said that steps initiated in the recent past have started paying dividends. He hoped that with the hard work of doctors and para-medical staff, the health scenario will further improve in State in days to come. He asked everyone to contribute in bringing greater accountability in their functioning so that the benefits percolate down to the needy on ground.

            In his brief address, Director Health Services, Jammu, Dr. Jasbir Singh said that more such workshops would be organized after small intervals for the benefit of the doctors. He said that experience gained by the participants from the workshop would go a long way in improving the efficacy of doctors. He thanked the Minister for showing keen interest in improving and streamlining the functioning of the department.

Reviews implantation of SW schemes

Sakina asks officers to ensure coverage of all left out areas under IIIrd ICDS project

Ajaz for creating awareness, identification of genuine beneficiaries

            Jammu, July 20 - Minister for social Welfare Ms Sakina Itoo on Monday directed the officers of the department to reassess the survey for implementation of third phase of ICDS project to ensure that all areas are covered under the scheme.

      Minister was addressing officers of Social Welfare department at a meeting convened here today to review the implementation of various welfare schemes in Jammu division.

       Minister of State for social welfare, Ajaz Ahmed Khan, Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Pramood Jain, Director Social Welfare Jammu, Laj Ram , district officers and other senior officers of the department attended the meeting.

 Ms Itoo suggested for involving impartial agencies for revising the survey report and not to go by the here say in enlisting the places for opening of new Anganwari centres.

      Calling for strict adherence to the guidelines, she said selection of new centres and their staff should be purely on merit and not on any other consideration.

      Stressing the need for creating awareness among the people about the schemes being implemented by the department, she asked the officers to explore possibilities of schemes yet to be launched in the state. She called upon the officers to show dynamism to bring a change in the working of the department.

      The Minister asked the district officers to personally monitor the implementation of schemes and maintain a tour diary of their activities. She also directed them to approach people who are unable to get the benefits of schemes like, old age, widow and handicapped pensions due to inaccessibility to the Tehsil and district headquarters.

      Speaking on the occasion, Minister of state for Social welfare Ajaz Ahmed Khan told the officers to ensure that the benefits   of schemes   particularly meant for students go to genuine candidates. He asked the officers to cross check the student beneficiaries the and not go solely on the recommendations of education department for sanctioning of various scholarships to the students.  He also stressed for creating awareness among the people about schemes. The Minister also called for introducing new potential trades in social welfare centres.

            The Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare, Mr Pramood Jain gave a resume about the steps being taken by the department to introduce the schemes   yet to be implemented in the state.

      Earlier, Director Social Welfare Laj Ram gave details about the district wise achievements under various schemes in Jammu division.

CHC dedicated to people of Mahore

Govt committed to dev all areas on modern lines: Malik

            MAHORE, JULY 20  - On induction of Mr Abdul Gani Malik as cabinet Minister with portfolios of Higher Education, Labour & Employment was accorded rousing reception by thousands of people on his arrival at Mahore  tehsil head quarter during his three-day tour of the Reasi district today.

            Addressing the gathering at Mahore, Mr. Malik said that the coalition government in the state is fully committed for the over all development of all the areas of the state.   He asked the general public to come forward and took active part in the development of this backward and hilly tehsil so that the socio economic standard of the poor and down trodden people to be upgraded. Two Ministers from one tehsil in an opportunity for us for the over all development of this hilly area. He asked the general public to unite, come above the party line and participate in the development process in all the areas for percolating the benefits of all development schemes at the grass root level. There is dire need for the completion of ongoing works in this area and the administration shall be made fully responsible for initiating the required development works. He sanctioned two ambulances for tehsil Mahore, One ambulance shall remain at Angrala and another one at Larh, he added.

            During the public grievances meeting at Mahore, the public representatives of various areas of Mahore and Gulabgarh presented number of demands including augmentation of drinking water, power supply, provision of staff in educational as well as in health institutions, upgradation of schools, compensation of drought, irregular attitude of PHE employees, shifting of Degree Collage from Dharmari to Mahore, upgradation of educational institutions of the area as 10+2, NES block, Niabat office and bank branch at Chassana, road connectivity in the Tuli Banna Raea,  immediate need of  staff at HSS Mahore etc.

       Earlier, the Minister visited Degree Collage Dharmari and took stock of arrangements for the facilities of collage students. The Principal of the collage apprised the Minister regarding additional requirements of the newly set up Degree Collage at Dharmari. He issued necessary instructions to the concerned officers for further initiatives to improve the requirements of the college so that the students of the college may get better reading facilities.

            The Minister also dedicated Community Health Centre (CHC) constructed at a cost of Rs.15 lac and meeting hall constructed at a cost of Rs.5.20 lacs at Mahore.

            Among others, Addl. Deputy Commissioner, Reasi, Mr. M. H. Bhatti, Director Collages, ND Wani, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Sukhdev Singh Sambyal, Sub Divisional Magistrate, Mahore, Mr. Mohd Hanief Malik and Tehsildar Mahore, Mr. R. C. Tripathy all district, tehsil and block level officers and large number of people.

Make revenue deptt functioning hassle free: Bhalla to officers

Deputations call on Revenue Minister

            JAMMU, JULY 20 - The Minister for Revenue, Relief & Rehabilitation, Mr Raman Bhalla has asked the officers to ensure better transparency and accountability in the system so that the expectations of general public can be met effectively. He said that better team work and improvised coordination can ensure the smooth functioning of the department.

            Revenue department is the back bone of administrative set up and streamlining its functioning holds the key to the pace of development, he added.

        This was stated by the Minister at a high level meeting of officers of Revenue Department here today.

        The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Dr Pawan Kotwal, Financial Commissioner Revenue, Dr R K Jerath, Secretary Revenue, Mr Ejaz Iqbal, District Development Commissioners of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch and senior officers of the Revenue Department.

        He assured all reformatory steps in improving and strengthening the department and said that issues like the better infrastructure, improving manpower and use of latest technology will be taken up on priority, but the officers and functionaries have to ensure services of the department are taken to the doorsteps of common man making the entire system hasslefree and less time consuming. He said that major thrust should be given on maximizing revenue generation in the state so that the department becomes more self sustained. He also directed the officers to furnish the update data regarding revenue land, forest and custodian land so that future action plans can be chalked. He laid emphasis on dealing strictly with the problem of land encroachments and use of agricultural land for commercial purposes.

        Mr Bhalla has stressed on providing immediate relief and timely compensation in the land acquisition cases and cases of SRO 43. He said that the Revenue department has more of social responsibility as it is linked directly with the development on the ground level providing direct benefit to the masses.

        Regarding the disbursement of compensation to the 2005 earthquake victims of Poonch district, Mr Bhalla reprimanded the Revenue officers for the delay, adding that centre has given adequate cash relief for the earthquake victims of the state. He also called for expediting the cases under Roshni scheme so that the common masses donot face any problem.

        Divisional Commissioner apprised him about functioning of the department and said that the responsibilities of the department has increased manifold in view of social functions entrusted upon the department in dealing with the acquisition cases of land for national projects like Railways and National Highways, relief and rehabilitation and monitoring and coordinating the functioning of the departments to ensure timely execution of development. He added that a Revenue department is also chalking out disaster management plans for the state.

        He also informed the Minister about the ongoing construction works on the district office complexes in the four newly carved out districts of Kishtwar, Samba, Ramban and Reasi.                                      

        The Minister was further given a detailed report on the implementation of rehabilitation package for families of border migrants of Khour block, vesting of ownership rights to occupants under Roshni scheme and disposal of land revenue cases.

        Secretary Revenue gave a resume of the problems being faced by the department. He said that presently there is shortage of manpower in the department. Several key posts of the executive staff i.e Naib Tehsildar, Girdawars and Pataries are lying vacant, he added, adding that it has also been seen that the revenue officers and officials are often promoted in their own pay and grade and as a result continue to perform their duties, in their own pay and grade even upto retirement. This has resulted loss of pension benefits and also depleted the morale of their officers and officials.

        He said that lack of infrastructure, transport, equipments and buildings is causing a great problem in carrying out the smooth functioning of the department.

        Later, several deputations also called on the Minister and apprised him of their demands. A deputation of Doda migrants put forth their demand of relief package for them on the pattern of Kashmiri migrants. Regarding their demand of clear instructions to clarify whether Deputy Commissioner, Doda or Relief Commissioner, Migrant has the authority to issue their PRCs, Mr Bhalla directed the Divisional Commissioner to come out with clear directions in this regard.

        Another deputation of Evacuees Property Tenants Welfare Society discussed the issues concerning grant of lease to allotees, amendment to SRO 215, tenancy transfer cases and policy for repair and maintenance of houses with the Revenue Minister. The Minister assured to convene a meeting of the department to prepare a clear policy regarding the evacuee property.

        The traders of Vinayak Bazar met Mr Bhalla and asked the government to ensure proper upkeep of Vinayak Dharamshala as well as other demands concerning their property in the bazaar.

        The Minister gave a patient hearing to the deputationists and assured to take up their demands on priority.

Malik reviews progress of works in Mahore

            MAHORE, JULY 20 - In order to assess the pace of ongoing development works in tehsil Mahore of the Reasi district, the Minister for Higher Education, Labour & Employment convened a district level officers meeting at newly constructed meeting hall at Mahore today evening.

            The Addl. Deputy Commissioner, Reasi, Mr. M.H.Bhatti, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Mahore, Mr. Mohd Hanief Malik, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Sukhdev Singh Sambyal, Superintending Engineer, R&B, district level officers alongwith tehsil and block level officers also attended the meeting.

            During the meeting, the Minister asked the officers to ensure punctuality, transparency, dedication and make the administration efficient and accountable in achieving the targets within stipulated time frame with sincere efforts to percolate the benefits of all development schemes at the grass roots level.  The officers were directed to submit their detailed project reports (DPRs). He asked all the officers to ensure utilization certificates as early as possible so that the second installment for the schemes is released at the earliest.

            He asked the officers of R&B and PMGSY to hand over the constructed roads for plying him traffic so that the rural populace is benefited through road connectivity. He exhorted upon the officers to make ensure coordination among each other for settling all matters and achieving the targets. Attendance in all the government institutions shall be checked properly so that all departments, health institutions, veterinary centers function in a better way and the general public be benefited at their door steps.

            Mr. Malik asked the Addl Deputy Commissioner, Reasi to review the expenditure incurred during the fist quarter of the current financial year and also asked to prepare the project report for construction of Dak Banglow at Mahore.