Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex Renovation may take 50 years

The renovation work of Mubarak Mandi heritage complex is going on at snail’s pace and if the progress of the work goes at this pace, it will take over 50 years to restore this heritage complex to its pristine glory.

According to sources, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) which has been entrusted with the job of restoration of the Mubarak Mandi heritage complex is under constant pressure to intensify the pace of work to complete the project as early as possible.

However, in view of the delicate, artistic workmanship and old architecture, the ASI is not in a position to complete the work as early as possible, sources said, adding even after increasing the manpower the restoration of the Mubarak Mandi complex will not take less than eight to ten years.

Sources said if the work will go as per present pace the entire project will take 50 years to complete but the ASI being the only expert agency in restoration of ancient architecture so the work can’t be assigned to any other agency.

The Society is exerting pressure on ASI to intensify the pace of work by engaging more people.

Though started in year 2007, ASI has so far completed 80 percent work of erstwhile Army Headquarters and Foreign Office of Dogra regime while the rest of the complexes were yet to be taken in hand.

According to sources, the restoration work of entire Mubarak Mandi complex will need at least Rs 300 crore and it is not possible for the Central or State Government to provide such a huge amount at a time. So the project was divided into segments..... Palace wise by Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society, the organisation looking after the restoration work of the complex, sources added.

Sources said in the first segment two buildings of erstwhile Army Headquarters and Foreign Office were taken and they have been almost completed. The project was taken in hand in 13th Finance Commission and an estimate of Rs 53.9crore was projected for its restoration. Out of which, Rs 15 crore were sanctioned by Central Government so far but only Rs 8.57 crore were released, sources added.

The Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the heritage complex were prepared by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

Sources said under Mega Tourism Segment, the Heritage Society demanded Rs 24 . 92 crore for the restoration from Government of India (GoI) and it sanctioned Rs 16.80 crore only. Out of which Rs 3.38 crore were released.

In the 13th Finance Commission, Raja Amar Singh Palace, Dogra Art Museum, Badi Deodi, Royal Courts and Mahal of Raja Ram Singh Queens’ were taken, sources said, adding in this mega tourism project Raja Ram Singh Palace, Darbar Hall and Central Court Yard were included.

Sources said now the ASI has taken the work of Royal Courts, Badi Deodi, etc. Their drawings were completed and the work will start next month.

Admitting that work is going on at snail’s pace, Sujanya Sharma Executive Director, Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society said that restoration of old architecture being a delicate and artistic work it can’t be done in pace with modern technology.

However the Society has urged the ASI to increase its manpower to complete the entire project by five years to ten years, he said, adding that utmost care is being taken that the old architecture is not disturbed and the Dogra heritage and architecture is preserved for future generations.

He said the ASI has also taken up the work of Royal Courts, Badi Deodi etc. It has framed the drawings and will start the work next month. In the third segment Rs 78 crore were demanded out of which Rs 67 crore were approved and Rs 12 crore have been released, he added.

Ring Roads for Jammu Srinagar

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today gave nod to the construction of Srinagar and Jammu Ring Roads to decongest traffic and provide alternate communication for commuters taking care up to the year 2042.

Approving the prestigious and most required two road projects involving an expenditure of abut Rs. 3000 crores at a meeting of high level officers of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and Jammu and Kashmir State R&B Department here, the Chief Minister directed the NHAI, executing agency for the projects, to formulate the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and put up the proposals to the R&B Department for finalization.

The proposed Ring Road project for Srinagar will start at Galander and meet the National Highway at Narbal Junction in its Phase-I. The road will be 4-lane with 6-lane future projection. Under the Phase-II of the project, a two-way road will start at Narbal and meet the National Highway in Ganderbal.

The project is likely to cost Rs. 1195 crores in Phase-I and Rs. 448 crores in the Phase-II. The road length in the Phase-I will be 34.72 kilometers and in the Phase-II, 27.2 kilometers. There will be a Toll Plaza at Narbal Junction. In the proposed 4-lane road project from Galander to Narbal there will be 155 culverts, two road-over bridges, two flyovers, five major junctions, 17 minor junctions and one Toll Plaza. The two-lane road from Narbal to Ganderbal will have 135 culverts, 5 major junctions and 9 minor junctions.

Omar said that the projects should keep room for widening from 4-lanes to 6-lanes and from 2-lanes to 4-lanes to cater to futuristic needs.

The Jammu 4-lane Ring Road involving an expenditure of Rs 1355 crores will have one Toll Plaza in each of the homogenous sections. It will start near Vijaypur (Raipur) and meet the National Highway at Akhnoor where from it will go up to Nagrota Bye-Pass. The road project will be about 60 kilometers in length. It will have 4 major bridges in Package-I and 4 similar bridges in package-II while the number of minor bridges in Package-I will be 5 and 4 in Package-II. The number of culverts in Package-I will be 215 and in Package-II 102. There will be two flyovers in each package while as two overhead bridges will be constructed in the Package-II.

Under the Package-I the road length from Raipur to Akhnoor will be 43 kilometers and in Package-II it will be 16.9 kilometers.

The Chief Minister said that creation of better communication facility in the cities, towns and rural areas has been focused in the development policy by his Government and all avenues are being explored to upgrade road communication facilities for better traffic management and commuting facilities to the people besides generating economic activities.

Omar said that up to the mark Ring Roads for the two cities of Srinagar and Jammu are need of the hour and to cater to the futuristic requirements of the two capitals growing on faster pace.

The Project Director NHAI explained the salient features of the proposed road projects and highlighted the main features of the projects.

Vishwakarma Day 2012 in Jammu

Various functions were organized in connection with celebration of Vishwakarma Day today.

A function in this connection was held in the NHPC Regional office at Narwal near here. The function among others was attended by Jatinder Singh, Executive Director, other senior officers and employees of NHPC. On the occasion they paid obeisance to Lord Vishwakarma and offered Pooja to him. The function culminated with serving of prashad to gathering.

The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) celebrated the day as National Labour Day in entire country. In J&K the members of the Union performed pooja of Lord Vishwakarma in their respective units i.e at Jammu, Reasi, Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Rajouri and Kishtwar. They took a solemn pledge to work hard for the prosperity of the nation.

Laxman Ravinder Singh, senior leader BMS, Karnail Chand its president, Vijay Chandel its working president, Bushan Sharma, general secretary, Harbans Choudhary deputy general secretary and other senior leaders of the organization addressed the workers at different places. They demanded that the Vishwakarma Day be declared as a paid holiday all over the country as entire working class celebrates it and worship the Lord to invoke his blessings.

Addressing the workers Lakshman Ravinder Singh condemned the Central and State Governments for their failure to control prices and the poor workers have been put in great trouble due to anti people policies of the Governments.

Prabhandhak Committee Vishwakarma Temple Muthi organised a cultural programme on the eve of Vishwakarma Jayanti which was followed by hawan and Satsang. A large number of people from all walks of life attended the function. On the occasion Sat Verma and Darshan Verma performed Bhajan Kirtan in praise of Lord Vishwakarma. K C Raina ex president of the Pradesh Vishwakarma Sabha was the chief guest on the occasion. He threw light on Lord and significance of day especially for working class.

2 Traffic men suspended for taking hafta

Deputy military officer of Traffic Police, Danish Rana nowadays suspended 2 Traffic men and disengaged another when they were caught taking 'hafta' from the vehicle operators on Jammu-Srinagar National route.Official sources aforementioned that DIG Traffic, Jammu was on his approach towards Srinagar in a very non-public vehicle once he detected 3 Traffic police personnel taking 'hafta' from a truck driver at Kunfar valley. The DIG directly stopped his vehicle and caught the boys in blue guilty whereas acceptive 'hafta'. associate quantity of Rs 780, that the Traffic police personnel had taken as 'hafta' from varied vehicle operators throughout the day was recovered from their possession.

Accordingly, DIG ordered suspension of DTI Javid Iqbal and choice Grade Constable Javeed and disengaged SPO Mohd Ishaq. SSP Traffic National route, Virender Sharma was directed to conduct inquiry and submit report among shortest attainable time.

Jammu Entertainers Season two starts

For encouraging the proficient youth of Jammu, Nav Durga Kala Manch has taken a solid step to find the talent by organizing the mega talent hunt show "JAMMU’S ENTERTAINERS" Season two within the town of temples for people who have not got an opportunity to reveal themselves.

Anybody having latent talent and possessing confidence to perform on stage and has the capability to entertain, ought to definitely be a section of ‘Jammu Entertainers’. during this mega event over five hundred halficipants are expected to require part and exhibit their talent in numerous fields, said Aaditya Bhanu, Director NDKM.

He stated that it's the sole event about to be organized that provides a basic platform for those people that have gotten a special talent of entertaining the folks of Jammu. The show isn't simply just for the singers and dancers of Jammu who are principally famous in our Jammu and most of the events were organized either for singing or dancing.

He additionally stated that this mega event isn't restricted to the boundaries of Jammu District however it's for the complete Jammu Province. it's the sole event during which there's no age limit. the most motive of this event is to supply a stage for promoting every and each talent in varied fields.

The winners can get the possibility in Video Albums, TV Advertisements and in Serials. additionally Gift Hampers, money Prizes, Mementoes would be given to the winners in every class.

The initial auditions would be held at Performing Art Studio, Tangewali Gali, Kachi Chowni, Jammu, for a few week. when short-listing the proficient youth, they'd be needed to perform at a much bigger auditorium.

First section of Audition would be persisted ten might, 2012 and free registration Forms would be obtainable from the workplace of NDKM, Performing Art Studio, Arya Public highschool, Tangewali Gali, Kachi Chowni, Jammu from might five, 2012 onwards.Pilgrim Tourism Circuit in Kashmir

Durga Nagar delegation meets Wani

The Durga Nagar Welfare Committee representatives held a gathering with Minister of state for Revenue , Relief and Rehabilitation Nasir Aslam Wani here nowadays and mentioned the issues of the realm with him.

As per a unleash, the problems as well as construction of park with looking complicated, providing of 4 kanals of land to Higher Secondary faculty Durga Nagar for construction of building, augmentation of Roop Nagar and Janipura Grid, execution of developmental works by R&B, UED and Municipal Corporation etc were mentioned with the Minister.

The Committee members who were within the meeting included Roshan Lal Raina its president, Mohan Lal, Behari Lal, Bushan Lal and Rajinder Singh.

The Committee members demanded that the govt representatives ought to visit the realm to determine the issues of the plenty. It additionally demanded that migrant workers be issued new ration card at an earliest and additionally demanded enhancement of money relief.

The Minister assured the delegation that the issues of the individuals of the realm are redressed.

Durga Nagar Committee highlights demands

Jammu Udhampur Katra Rly line to be electrified

Special styles cleared for tunnels, bridges Jammu-Udh-Katra Rly line to be electrified
within two years

General Manager, Railway Electrification, Jagdev Kalia, these days said that Jammu-Udhampur-Katra Railway line are going to be electrified at intervals next 2 years and single line between Chakki Bank to Jammu by finish of current year.

Interacting with the media-persons at Railway Station here this morning once taking stock of the electrification comes, Mr Kalia said, "work on electrification of Chakki Bank to Jammu and Udhampur to Jammu railway lines goes on at the specified pace so Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) are replaced by the electrical Multiple Units (EMUs) as early as possible".

"Given this pace of labor, we have a tendency to are hopeful of finishing the electrification work on Chakki Bank to Jammu by {the finish|the top|the tip} of current year whereas because the same on Udhampur-Jammu section is targeted to be completed by end of next year", he said, adding electrification of second line would be dole out solely once completion of all styles of works by the development division.

Disclosing that electrification work on Udhampur-Katra section would begin solely once the gap of the railway line for traditional train traffic, he hoped that at intervals next 2 years electrical Multiple Units (EMUs) can begin chugging up to holy city of Katra.

It is pertinent to say here that on Udhampur-Katra railway line, downside of seepage is being faced on Tunnel no 1 and direction of the tunnel is being modified to avoid the problematic space.

About Jammu-Udhampur section, Mr Kalia said, "at gift work on ten kilometer stretch from Udhampur to Ramnagar goes on and hopefully at intervals next one or 2 months all styles of work on this patch would be completed".

Railway lines in j &k

Rail services suspended in valley

Admitting that electrification of Jammu-Udhampur-Katra railway line could be a difficult task, the overall Manager said, "there are twenty tunnels and fourteen bridges on Jammu-Udhampur section and special arrangements are needed to be created in the least these places so as to make sure safety of the electrification network".

In response to a matter, he said, "we have ready special styles for electrification works in tunnels and on the bridges so throughout inclement climatic conditions the poles or the electricity provide lines don’t get damaged".

Disclosing that sites have additionally been identified for fixing of electrical sub-stations from where the facility provide are going to be provided to the railway lines, Mr Kalia said that sub-station at Samba can give power provide to Jammu-Pathankote section whereas as Jammu-Udhampur section would get electricity provide from sub-station at Manwal.

Responding to a different question, the overall Manager said, "the electrification of Katra-Dharam section has additionally been given nod however the work on an equivalent would be potential solely when the track is prepared for chugging of the trains".

Mr Kalia, who took stock of the railway electrification comes with the involved officers, can once more visit the sites significantly on Jammu-Udhampur Section so as to make sure that any hurdles within the completion of prestigious project are cleared and work is executed at intervals the stipulated timeframe.

Jammu Convention Centre likely to see light of day

After remaining in limbo for almost 16 years, International Convention Centre at Jammu is likely to see the light of the day in near future with State Cabinet is going to accord approval for resumption of work on this prestigious project. The Cabinet is meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on April 26 evening.

Authoritative sources told EXCELSIOR that decision to establish International Convention Centre at Jammu was taken in November 1996 and accordingly vide Government order dated December 3, 1996, a Committee was constituted under the chairmanship of then Principal Secretary to Chief Minister to formulate plan for establishment of convention center contiguous to State Guest House.

The execution of project was actually initiated in 1998 at an estimated cost of Rs 12.21 crore and it was to be completed in 12 months. But its fate continued to hang in balance due to one after another issues, which otherwise were either avoidable or could be easily resolved within the shortest possible time.

In 1999, some part of the proposed construction was deleted from the scope of the project and in 2003, M/s Ganga Contract and Projects Pvt Limited, New Delhi, which was allotted the electrification work, left the work halfway. However, it took four years to the then Government to terminate the contract with the company and in 2009 the execution of remaining electrification work was allotted to SICOP, sources said.

"Due to delay in the execution of the project, some of the already executed works suffered damages thereby rendering huge expenditure as infructuous", they said, adding "during this process, the cost of the material as well as labour escalated enormously and need of changes in some specifications as well as execution of certain additional items such as road network was being felt".

In January 2011, a comprehensive review of the project was undertaken by the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, after inspection of the site by a group of officers and it was decided to work out revised estimates/ Detailed Project Report. Accordingly, the revised estimates were worked out at Rs 24.61 crore including Rs 82 lakh for rectification of the damaged works, sources said, adding due to abandoning of the project for several years, its cost got escalated from Rs 12.21 crore to Rs 24.61 crore.

The issue again came up for discussion when Chief Minister was reviewing the progress of mega development projects few months back, sources said, adding on the instructions of Chief Minister, the matter was taken up with Planning and Finance Department and both gave concurrence. 

"Now the Hospitality and Protocol Department is formally placing a proposal before the State Cabinet for administrative approval to construction of convention center at a revised cost of Rs 24.61 crore and resumption of work through the same contractors on the existing terms of the subsisting contract", sources said, adding "after about 16 years, this prestigious project is now likely to see the light of the day".

They informed that Hospitality and Protocol Department will prepare a video film of work executed till date in order to maintain the record of infructuous expenditure.

Mubarak Mandi Bachao Andolan

Devotees at Chountra shrine

Divisional Commissioner workplace goes online

Divisional Commissioner Jammu Dr. Pawan Kotwal launched his office's web site www.divcomjammu.gov.in here nowadays.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kotwal said that the most objective of launching the web site is to form out there all necessary info concerning functioning of the department to the common man on a click of mouse. it's indeed a success towards e-Governance within the workplace, he added.

Divisional Commissioner said that the web site can increase transparency within the functioning of Divisional Administration and additionally improve public and Government interface by providing ample info on the web site, adding that the web site could be a one stop interface for pretty much all internet sites of Jammu province, which can create the access of knowledge comparatively quicker by Government and general public.

He hoped that the web site can serve the aim that it's been launched and can keep the voters posted regarding latest activities and developments in Jammu Province.

It was informed that links to some vital websites|internet sites|websites} have additionally been provided on the online site for facilitating the guests for easy access of knowledge. Contact info provided on the positioning can facilitate the guests to interact with administration simply. on-line queries of the general public through mail may be promptly responded and readdressed. on-line orders and circulars from Divisional Commissioner workplace will be placed on this net web site for the good thing about government and general lots and on day to day basis. 

Dy Speaker orders seizure of two mobile phones

103rd International Womens Day in Jammu Kashmir

Delegation of Sant Kabir Sabha calls on CM

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Friday reaffirmed his Government's commitment for equitable development of all sections of the society and reaching out to downtrodden on development front with focused attention.

Speaking to a delegation of Guru Sant Kabir Sabha, which called on him to convey gratitude for declaring Sant Kabir's Jayanti as holiday, Omar Abdullah said that justice to all has been underlined as the benchmark of the functioning of the Government.

He said that acceptance of the justified demands and taking right action to redress the grievances of people is important ingredient in the delivery of good-governance. He said that various measures aimed at ameliorating the lot of weaker sections of the society have already been initiated during the last three years which are showing visible impact on ground. 

The Chief Minister said that the administration has been sensitized at all levels to focus on holistic development across the State. He said special schemes and development programmes are under implementation for the upliftment of backward areas and weaker sections of the society. 

Omar Abdullah said that all round development of the State would continue to be carried forward with added endeavours and as a mission. He said upgradation and improvement of basic amenities is receiving priority attention of the government. 

President of the Sabha, Faqir Chand Bhagat and its Chairman and former Minister, Mula Ram lauded the Chief Minister's efforts aimed at comprehensive welfare of weaker sections of the society.

A deputation of Education Volunteers also met the Chief Minister and presented him a memorandum of demands relating to their regularization and issues. 

A deputation of Education Volunteers also met the Chief Minister and presented him a memorandum of demands relating to their regularization and issues.

The Chief Minister gave patient hearing and said that the demand would be considered in its right perspective.

Togadia warns against curtailment of Amarnath Yatra

Panun Kashmir on Amarnath Yatra

Jollywood Music CD of Dogri film Reet

The regional cinema can only take roots in the State when filmmaking is declared as industry in J&K, and the State Government gives incentives to local film makers on the lines of policies followed by other states of the country, said Shabir Mujahid, Director Doordarshan Jammu.

He was speaking in the function held to launch the music CD of forthcoming Dogri film ‘Reet’, here today.

The gala function was presided over by Surjit Singh Slathia, Minister for Industries who praised the efforts of the entire team in making a film in Dogri. He said Dogri films can go a long way in re-connecting the younger generations with their roots and culture. He promised to talk to the Finance Minster for extending tax exemptions to the film. 

Produced and directed by well-known actor and media personality Pankaj Khjauria, under the banner of Navrudra Productions, ‘Reet’ is totally an indigenously made film in which all the actors and technical crew hails from Jammu.

Speaking to Excelsior, Pankaj Khajuria, who is also the main lead of the film, said that ‘Reet’ is the story of love that is betrayed by customs. 

He said that the Dogri film, which is getting final touches, would be released in June 2012, in Jammu. He hoped that the film packed with human emotions and by lilting music will be liked and appreciated by the audience and encourage him and others to making films in mother tongue Dogri. 

The film ‘Reet’ which comes on the heels of films like Maa Ni Mildi’, ‘Lakeer’ and ‘Kuggi Maar Duari’, is being seen as a boost for the regional cinema and the miniscule local film industry popular by called as Jollywood. 

The highlight of today’s function was showing of the promo of the film and live recital of the songs of ‘Reet’ by film’s playback singers like Suresh Chowhan and Surpal. On the occasion, film’s music director Arvind recited the song, which has been originally sung by Kamaal Hassan—of Bollywood fame for ‘Ishaq Mera Sufiana’.

The film ‘Reet’ has been written by Rajneesh Gupta, while other members of the team include cameraman, Rajesh Khajuria, editor (-) Taranjit Singh Saini, lyrics—Bishan Singh Dardi, Pankaj Khajuria, Rajneesh Gupta and Arvind, singers—Kamaal Khan, Lovely Chandra, Suresh Chowhan and Surpal, make-up Meenu Komal, art director Amarjeet Singh and production designer Akhil Gupta.

The members of the cast present on the occasion included female actor in lead role Riddhima Singh, R S Bali, Madan Rangeela, Janak Khajuria, J R Sagar, Santosh Sangra, Kusum Tikku, Shammi Malhotra, R K Bhat, Subhash Jamwal, Opinder Upadhyay, Harbans, Khabri Lal and Mohan Singh, 

Other than the cast, and technical crew of the film, number of filmmakers, actors, media personalities and members of the civil society were also present in the function.

Dogri film Kuggi Maar Duari

Dogri Artists Honoured

Governor releases Brahm Vani

Governor N. N. Vohra, today released "Brahm Vani", a 6-monthly magazine, brought out by the Dogra Brahmin Pratinidhi Sabha, Jammu, at a function held at Raj Bhavan here today.

The Governor congratulated the Dogra Brahmin Pratinidhi Sabha for bringing out this publication and emphasized the high value of the journal containing essays on relevant subjects and issues, written in simple language, so that they are easily understood by the common readers.

He suggested that the focus of the write-ups in "Brahm Vani" could be topics relating to the revival and promotion of ethical and moral values among the youth as such writings, along with those on other relevant subjects, can make a significant contribution in promoting balanced personality development of the coming generation.

This publication in Sanskrit, Hindi and English throws light on the activities undertaken by the Sabha for the promotion of ethical values, eradication of social evils and the dissemination of the glorious socio-cultural heritage of the country for establishing a more healthy society.

Ved Parkash Sharma, President, Dogra Brahmin Pratinidhi Sabha, and other office bearers and members of the organization, thanked the Governor for releasing the journal.

The Governor also released "Duggar Sanskriti", a book in Dogri language written by Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri.

The Governor observed that with the availability of increased resources with the educational institutions and speedy advancement in technology there had been improvement in the preservation and re-publishing of classical works in various languages and different subjects. He added that the National Book Trust had also made an important contribution in this regard and observed that our libraries should be well stocked with books on every subject to cater to the requirements of readers with different interests.

Dr. Udhampuri, recipient of Padma Shri, Sahitya Akademi and several other awards and honours, has so far authored 25 books. "Duggar Sanskriti" focuses on the preservation of Dogri language, literature, folk art, traditions and customs for the benefit of the coming generations.

Among those present on the occasion were Dr. Satya Pal Srivatas, Dr. Lalit Gupta, Prof. Lalit Magotra, Prof. Veena Gupta, Prof. Ved Kumari Ghai, Dr. Virender Gupta and Shailender Singh.

Meanwhile, Mr Vohra released a book in Urdu language, titled "Insha Allah Azad Hind Ta-abad Rehay", written by Avtar Krishan Ganjoo Bharti Sehar Ganderbali.

This volume is based on a critical evaluation of the letters written by the late Union Education Minister, Moulana Abul Kalam Azad, and various other writers.

The Governor complimented Mr. Ganjoo for bringing out this well researched book and hoped that the author would continue to contribute towards the enrichment of Urdu literature.

Dr Bloeria first VC of Jammu Central University

Buda Amarnath Yatra 2011

All India Heritage Painters Camp at Mubarak Mandi

The historic Mubarak Mandi, especially the newly renovated Foreign and Military Office Complex, came alive with an assembly of the tribe of contemporary painters who will be giving shape to their creative works in the background of Dogra Heritage, here, for seven days.

The artists from different parts of the country are participating in the 'All India Painters' Heritage Camp', which has been organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, on the occasion of World Heritage Day.

Nasir Aslam Wani, Minister of State, Tourism and Culture who inaugurated 7 day long All India Heritage Painting camp, in his address listed some of the measures being taken by the tourism department for protection and preservation of Mubarak Mandi and other heritage sites in the State. He said this heritage site is being renovated to bring it to its pristine glory and making it a star attraction for the visiting pilgrims and tourist.

In his welcome address Atal Dulloo, Commissioner/ Secretary, Tourism and Culture, said that the aim of holding such a camp in the heritage site is to create awareness among the people about the importance of heritage sites, its preservation and protection so that the posterity knows the values of the society prevalent that time.

The artists who are participating in the camp are Manoon Nomani, Delhi, Raghu Naware, Maharahtra, Sankari Mitra, Delhi, Amit Harit, Rajasthan, Neraj Bakshi, Delhi, Him Chaterjee, Himchal Pradesh, Subhash Anand, K K Gandhi, Vijay Saraf, Rohit Verma-Jammu, Rajinder Patwari, UP, Rajan Fullari, Goa, Arshad Sualeh, Noushad Gayoor, Mohd Yusuf Bacha and Mohd Yousf Naqishbandi -Kashmir.

Talking to Jk News, Sankari Mitra from Delhi, said that it was unique experience for her to work in such a heritage environs.

91110 stray dogs in Srinagar

451 posts created for 22 new degree colleges

Poetess Padma Sachdev honored byVarda University

The elite poets, writers, scholars of Dogri and other languages assembled at the K L Saigal Hall, here today, to meet and interact with Padma Sachdev, the well-known poetess and flag bearer and ambassador of her mother tongue in the national capital as well as in foreign countries.

Organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the highlight of literary program held in the honour of Padma Sachdev, who has been the face of Dogri outside the State, was the recital of her latest poems by of the poetess.

An author of 16 books-eight anthologies of Dogri poetry and eight books in Hindi, Padama Sachdev who celebrated her 72nd birthday in the winter capital yesterday, has been honoured by Varda University, Gujarat, where a table has been marked on her name.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Lalit Magotra said that the foundation of Dogri cultural Renaissance was laid in 1944 by Ram Nath Shashtri, B P Sathe, D C Prashant, Pandit Sansar Chand Baru, Dinu Bhai Pant and others but it was due to the poetic genius and diehard lovers of the language like Padama Sachdev that a strong edifice of modern Dogri was established.

Padamshree Nilamber Dev Sharma, in his address said like at one time India was known by two eminent women such as Indira Gandhi and Lata Mangeshkar, the Dogri language also became synonymous with Padma Sachdev's poetry for the people outside the State.

Padamshree Jatinder Udhampuri, the chief guest of the function, also highlighted her literary contributions.

Others present on the occasion also included eminent personalities like Prof Ved Ghai, Prof Champa Sharma, Om Goswami, Darshan Darshi, Gyaneshwar, Suman K Sharma, Prof Shahsi Pathania, Prof Archan Kesar and Mohan Singh.

Earlier Savita Bakshi, additional secretary, J&K Cultural Academy welcomed the guests. The program was conducted by Brij Mohan.

NRSC meet held at New Delhi

SASB clarifies report on duration of yatra

John Players hits street with exciting range of casuals

John Players has, once again, hit the street with an exciting range of summer casuals with its wide range, especially the Indigo Trail, which has irresistible range of shirts in colour accents of burgundy, khakis ands sienna thus making the class Indigo look more exciting. The cool wash out effects and spray treatment would surely make the wearer to hit the road this summer.

The new casual wear collection also celebrates the return of the retro era with the RETRO BEAT. Vibrant voiles, asymmetric patterns in stripes and checks, make this range absolutely extrovert. Setting the stage for that perfect sentimental mood, the Retro Spectra in soft pastels consists of casual shirts in multi-coloured pastel stripes along with solid washed voiles and laundered soft fabric.

Be it the casual Friday look, the urban street wear look or the weekend attire, this collection complements one’s style effortlessly, says Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive-ITC Lifestyle Retailing Business. "The new casual wear range from John Player is relaxing, vibrant and has a very casual edge to it", adds Atul Chand.

Another high point of the collection is the new range of casual shorts and ergo style trousers available in light colours. The casual wear collection 2012 is priced at Rsa 499 onwards and is available in stores countrywide.

KPs demonstrate for passsage of Shrines Temples Bill

KPC asks Pandits not to take any step in hurry on return

Gujjar Bakerwal youth highlight demands

Gujjar, Bakerwal Youth (J&K), have highlighted the problems and suffering of Gujjars and Bakerwal community (nomads) from the past many years.

Ch Nazakat Khattana, youth leader, while addressing a press conference, told that their community is suffering in every sphere of life. Giving details he said that they are ignored at everywhere in Jammu. He said that during summer season they migrate from plains of Jammu to upper reaches and on the way during migration, they are harassed by various agencies in one way or the other.

The Gujjar youth leader raised the issue of mobile schools, which were not functioning properly and the students of the community are the worst sufferers especially in hilly areas. He added that community students are being neglected and ignored from all such facilities which other students of the State pupils were enjoying. 

Ch Nazakat demanded that the land occupied by Gujjar and Bakerwals may by regularized by JDA and other departments who were creating problems for them. He added that in budget session of State Assembly the nomads were totally ignored, as no question was raised by any elected representative.

They Gujjay youth leader has pinned all hopes on the Chief Minister and appealed him to consider their grievances and order measures for mitigation of the same.

Teachers Federation demands HRA

Govt to Uplift of SC ST OBC

Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Raman Bhalla today said that focused attention was being paid by the Government to uplift the socio-economic condition of the schedule caste, schedule tribe and other backward sections of the society in every corner of the State by providing all basic amenities to them in their respective colonies.

This was stated by the Minister while addressing a large gathering at Bathindi town. 

Regarding upgradation of Bathindi main road including entire links, Mr. Bhalla said that Government has earmarked Rs. 1.60 crore for this purpose, adding that the blacktopping and other allied works including renovation of surface and deep drains would be started soon after completing the tendering formalities. He said Government has approved Rs. 1.6 crore for construction of Doogian-Jagti road, Rs. 2.37 crore for Sunjwan-Bermeeni Road, adding that the projects are under progress on war-footing and would be completed within prescribed time frame. He said Government is committed to connect end corners of the Bathindi and Sunjwan areas with nearest headquarter by providing better road connectivity. 

September News 2011 Jammu

The Minister asked the PDD to prepare estimates for installation of street lights in the main chowks of Bathindi and submit the same for funding.

For regularization of land under Roshni Act, the Minister said that instructions have been issued to Revenue officers to make survey and submit status of the land so that the demand of inhabitants could be redressed at the earliest. 

Mr. Bhalla said Government has approved a plan to construct a modern line playfield on the 35 kanals available land at Government Higher Secondary School Sunjwan, adding that the play ground would be developed for promotion of sports activities in the area with the facilities of pavilion, toilet block, gymnasium and changing room facilities. He said that instructions have been issued to the concerned department to prepare the detailed project report and submit the same for funding .

To deal with drinking water scarcity in Batala and Jallalabad, Mr. Bhalla informed that two overhead tanks with storage capacity of 1.5 lakh gallons are under progress, adding that after inauguration, the adequate drinking water facilities would be provided to the Bathnidi and Sunjwan in Winter.

Earlier, the Minister also laid foundation for modernization of Main Market Trikuta Nagar, for which he announced Rs. 18 lakh for fixation of paver tiles, blacktopping and installation of water cooler including ornamental lights. 

Sonali Bendre Brand Ambassador of Vera Oil

Vijay Oil Mills, a company promoted by Vijay Kakkar and his son Rakesh Kakkar (also promoters of renowned real estate business house RK City Developers) have announced their association with Sonali Bendre as the Brand Ambassador for their brand 'VERA', a kacchi ghani mustard oil.

Sunil Ghai, national sales head, said, "we will target to the health conscious consumers in the urban markets. VERA is made from pure musrtard seeds and is processed in a way that retains the natural flavour of mustard oil while keeping the overall cholesterol low. In its launch phase the brand will be immediately available in North Indian markets like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi and J&K. It will subsequently be rolled in other markets. The brand will be available in pack sizes of 15 ltr, 10 ltr, 5ltr, 2 ltr, 1 ltr, 500 ml and 200 ml".

The company has signed up with the vivacious Sonali Bendre as the Brand Ambassador for VERA. Sonali, an actress par excellence, is also well known for her fitness and beauty. A versatile personality, she seamlessly balances her professional and personal roles (as a homemaker) with élan. Speaking about association with VERA, she said, "I am delighted to be associated with VERA as at this time when everyone is becoming increasingly health conscious, this is the ideal mustard oil to cook all the delicious Indian food with".

While highlighting the launch plans of VERA and its association with Sonali Bendre, the Managing Director, Rakesh Kakkar, said, "we are extremely happy to announce VERA's association with Sonali Bendre. The fit between the Brand and its Ambassador could not have been better, while Sonali represents the new age consumer who is conscious of keeping the balance between taste and health, VERA being a mustard oil low on cholesterol, is the ideal choice of cooking medium for such a consumer. A media campaign (TV commercial) with Sonali has been shot and will be aired in the target market by mid-April 2012".

The brand launch with Sonali will be followed by a cultural evening featuring multi-talented singer, composer Raghav Sachar and actress Sonali Bendre. National Sales Head, Sunil Ghai was alos present in the function.

International team arrives to inspect Kishanganga

2 artificial dams coming up in Kathua

Two artificial dams are being constructed at Dabbi and Phangeri in Kathua district to create ground water recharging facilities to the fields, drinking facilities to nomads and their livestock besides wildlife habitation, costing Rs. 39 lakh.

This was stated by the Minister for Forest and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad while taking stock of the progress of the projects taken under forest sector in the Kathua district today. 

The Minister exhorted upon the officers to start work on new projects approved under CAMPA and ensure 100 per cent utilization of funds provided for the projects. He asked them to come up with detailed reports of big projects so that more people are benefitted. 

The Minister urged upon district administration to get fenced the land available in the towns so that it could be saved from encroachment. He also directed officers to complete all projects under execution as per fixed schedule. 

The Minister underlined need for proper and regular monitoring of the projects coming up in the district under forest sector and directed them that these projects should be completed within stipulated time frame. 

While reviewing the functioning of Pollution Control Board(PCB), the Minister said the Kathua is the gateway of the Jammu and Kashmir and asked the concerned officers to ensure implementation of the laws enacted for checking the pollution control in the state. 

The Minister also inspected Forest Nursery Sagwan in Samba district. He was informed that 25000 teak wood plants, imported from Madhya Pradesh and Utrakand, have been raised on experimental basis and subsequently for distribution among the farmers on concession rates. He was told that 50000 plants of different species have been raised at forest nursery Hari- Chak.

It was given out that 344 hectares of land has been treated by soil conservation department besides planting 3.14 lakh plant saplings costing Rs. 1.02 crore. Apart from this, the department also fenced 1.12 rft forest land and distributed 1.06 lakh plants among the farmers, it was told. 

The meeting was informed that 1.19 lakh plants have been planted by DFO, Kathua, apart from raising 1.30 lakh plants raised for next season in three nurseries of the department. An area of 243 hectares have been brought under plantation, it was added.

Panchayat elections 14th phase

6620 fine imposed on smokers

Drugs and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) today carried out special drive against smoking at public place and imposed fine on 85 violators.` 6620 worth fine was imposed on the violators.

The team, which conducted drive against the smoking, comprised Manzoor Ahmad, Manish Gupta, Amit Mahajan and Gagan Bhardwaj, all Food Safety Officers and Drug Inspectors of DFCO. It worked under the supervision of Satish Gupta, Controller, DFCO, J&K.

The team also installed sign boards at prominent public places displaying the warning ‘No Smoking Area' and ‘Smoking Her is an Offence'

Use of polythene in jammu kashmir