Saroori caught GREF red handed while using sub-standard material in road construction work.

Probe sub-standard work executed by the GREF on Kishtwar –Batote NH: Saroori

Kishtwar, Nov 28: - General Reserve Engineering Force (GREF) responsible for the construction of 200 KM Batote-Doda-Kishtwar-Sinthan road was caught by Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today while using substandard material in construction work on Thathri-Kishtwar road in Kishtwar district.

Saroori who was on tour of his Inderwal constituency was accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Labour Kishtwar, Zakir Hussain and other senior officials were also present when Saroori caught the GREF red handed.

“GREF had been assigned the job of construction of nearly 200 KM vulnerable road from Batote to Kishtwar-Sinthan top which witnessed massive accidents--- but instead of doing his good job, GREF is using substandard material in the form of sand mixed with mud and low ratio of cement in construction” said Saroori who had vast experience of construction as a contractor and former Roads and Building Minister after he (Saroori) caught GREF red handed while using sub standard material in construction work.

Saroori said that after witnessing the use of sand and mud in construction work from Kishtwar to Thathri, he was shocked that GREF contractors not only use the substandard material in construction work, but also use the same material in construction of drains and protection walls threatening the safety of passengers who traveled on this National Highway. He said that GREF contractors are digging two meter deep drain and is covered with hardly 2 inch concrete cover, mixture of stone crusher stand with lighter weight iron rods.

“It was due to use of substandard material in construction of breast walls, R-walls and protection walls, every year Kishtwar district remains cut off from other parts of the state due to erosion of roads caused due to use of sub standard material” Saroori said.

He also picked up some samples of substandard material used by the GREF in construction of breast wall, R-walls and drains on the road in front of the general public and handed over the same to district administration for analysis. He said that it is the duty of district administration Kishtwar to analyze the handover material and initiate action against the concerned agency.

Due to the bad road condition from Thathri to Kishtwar, it becomes difficult for the drivers to ply their vehicle on this road as the road portion between Thathri to Kishtwar is slippery. He also blames the GREF for Drabshallah accident and added that despite repeated directions from government and house committees, the GREF fails to erect crash barriers and parapets on vulnerable stretch of National Highway including at Drabshallah accident site.

“In fact the Government must constitute an inquiry committee to probe the embezzlements in GREF which is present in the form of substandard work executed by the GREF in the construction of Batote-Doda-Kishtwar National Highway,” Saroori demanded.

Saroori also appealed to the Chief Minister J&K and National Highway authorities of India to initiate a thorough probe into the use of sub standard material into the construction work of road from Thathri to Kishtwar as earlier as possible so as to prevent many tragic accidents from occurrence in future.

Saroori laid foundation stone of 7.16 cr IWMP project at Patnazi

No pre-poll alliance for upcoming assembly elections: Saroori

Bunjwah (Kishtwar), Nov 27: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammed Saroori today laid foundation stone of Patnazi-Kishtwar watershed scheme covering 4 panchayats of Patnazi area of Drabshala Block of Kishtwar District.

While addressing mammoth gathering after laying foundation stone, Saroori who was also the chief guest at this function said that the Project is being executed at a n estimated cost of Rs 7.16 crores.

Clearing air on possibility of pre poll alliance with National Conference in upcoming parliamentary elections, Saroori said that Congress party will not form any alliance for the 2014 elections.

“The Congress will contest the elections on its own and try to emerge as a strong force with in state politics,” he said,

Saroori warned the people in Jammu and Kashmir to stay vigilant as different political parties were all out to flare up communal forces to polarize different sections of the society in the lust for votes. "With elections round the corner, such communal forces are sure to get aggressive, therefore I suggest that the people should stay alert and patient," he said.

He said that Congress political rivals are trying to create confusion among party supporters by saying that it is preparing to form an alliance with other parties ahead of the general elections. “It’s a political conspiracy to damage the prospects of the Congress in Assembly elections,” he said.

“There is no lobbyism in Congress in the state. Yes differences of opinion can be there but it is for the first time our party is moving in a unified manner in one direction,” Saroori added.

Saroori also highlighted the need for having transparency and accountability so that the benefit of IWMP reaches to the real person. He expressed his concern and said that the impact of the programme has to be made visible on ground that can only improve conditions of rural poor in one of the most backward areas, through the IWMP.

Saroori also exhorted everyone to avail the programme to gain proper understanding for smooth and speedy implementation of such vital initiative of Union Ministry of Rural Development.

In his address Project Manager IMWP Kishtwar Balbir Singh urged representatives of village level institutions to work as one unit to develop models through such programmes in order to earn repute at the State, regional and national level.

Project Assistant Kishtwar Firdous Ahmed explained people about the main objectives of the IWMP are to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving and developing degraded natural resources such as soil, vegetative cover and water. The outcomes are prevention of soil erosion, regeneration of natural vegetation, rain water harvesting and recharging of the ground water table. This enables multi-cropping and the introduction of diverse agro-based activities, which help to provide sustainable livelihoods to the people residing in the watershed area.

The prominent among those including Assistant Labour Commissioner Kishtwar Zakir Hussain, Saffron Development Officer Kishtwar N K Mishra, Project Manager IMWP Kishtwar Balbir Singh, District Level technical expert Dr Nowsheen, Project assistant Firdous Ahmed, Technical expert Water and Management officer Suhail Mir, Agriculture expert Shahnawaz Ahmed, JE IWMP Naresh officers of various department, Sarpanches and local leaders including Mohd Iqbal Keen, Khalid Hussain Sheikh, Farooq Ahmed Want, Mohd Shafi, Haji Noor Mohd, Choudhary Issaq, Vinod Kumar, Abdul Rehman Batak, Choudhary Misroo, Shamasdin Butt, Tek Chand, Secretary IYC Bunjwah Yog Raj and people in large number were present on the occasion.

Saroori expressed grief over accident at Drabshala-Thatri road

Thanks CM Omar for sanctioning relief

Kishtwar, November 26: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori has expressed grief over the sad road accident that took place at Drabshalla near Thathri in Kishtwar District and claimed eight precious human lives when a vehicle in which they were travelling skidded off the road and fell into the Chenab River in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The incident occurred today when the vehicle, which was on its way to Thathri from Drabshalla area of the district, skidded off the road and fell down into the Chenab river at around 12:45 PM today.

In a condolence message, Saroori expressed sympathy with the bereaved family. He prayed to the Almighty Allah for blessing peace to the departed soul. He also prayed the Almighty to give courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.
Saroori thanks Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah for sanctioning relief of Rs. one lakh each for deceased and Rs. 10,000 for injured.

The deceased were identified Rajinder Kumar (30 yrs) son of Jagdish Raj resident of Dugga Saroor, Dev Raj (45 yrs) son of Jameet Ram resident of Binoon Bonjwah, Abdul Kabir son of Abdul Aziz resident of Mirpura Bonjwah, Aashiq Hussain (42 yrs) son Abdul Ishaq Qazi resident of Thatri, Kuldeep Kumar (48 yrs) son of Munshi Ram resident of Challasoo Saroor, Tirath Ram (45 yrs) son laxmi Chand resident of Challasoo Saroor, Kotwal Chand (35 yrs) son of Tara Chand resident of Bonjwah and Sushil Kumar (17 yrs) son of Kuldeep Kumar resident of Challasoo Saroor. The ill fated vehicle completely submerged into river water.

Saroori inaugurated Panchayat Ghar at Gorninal.

NC biggest hurdle in implementation of centrally sponsored schemes

Gurinal (Chatroo), November 25: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today slammed National Conference leadership in creating hurdles in implementation of majority of centrally sponsored schemes in Jammu and Kashmir.

Mr. Saroori while addressing a mammoth gathering at remote village of Gurinal Chatroo of Inderwal Constituency after inauguration of newly constructed Panchayat Ghar in the village constructed at an expenditure of Rs.22 lacks under 13th FC and MGNREGA by Rural Development Department (RDD).

He said that despite repeated attempt by the Congress party, National Conference fail to incorporate 73rd and 74th amendment in Panchayat Raj Act in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that by way of incorporating of 73rd and 74th amendment in the Act, the Panchayats will become stronger in real sense and can bring transparency in work culture by way of effective monitoring, beside will help to minimize the level of corruption.

Saroori said that Panchayats and Local bodies are two important pillars and added that NC leadership has fail in strengthening these institutions. He said that NC led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at front is playing hide and seek game in giving more power to panchayats, beside also fail in holding Block Development Council (BDC) and Urban Local body (ULB) elections in the state. He said that due to callous approach of National Conference leadership, centre did not release funds worth several hundred crorers meant for the development under local body and Panchayat sector.

He said that the progress of development is far better in constituencies represented by the Congress MLAs despite the fact that NC leadership shows his non serious approach towards development of constituencies represented by the Congress party. He urged upon the party leadership to take strong note of delay in holding of local body elections by National Conference.

Saroori lauded the role of Kishtwar administration and Rural Development Department for the quality work and said that focused attention is being paid towards upgrading various facilities in rural areas in order to improve the quality of living standard of the people living in these remote and hilly areas of the State; added that roads, drinking water, schools, irrigation and civic amenities have gained momentum over the years in such areas.

“Massive developmental effort has been launched by the Centre government led Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and seek public cooperation for strengthening democratic setup. He Urged the people to actively participate in developmental works”, Saroori added.

During his visit, Saroori also took stock of various developmental works under execution in the area. He directed the concerned executing agencies for judicious use of funds and time bound completion of these projects so that people do not face any difficulty especially in winter season.

People of the area thank Mr. Saroori for improving socio-economic status of the people. They demanded for fulfillment of pending issues of the area on at an earliest.

Officers of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, other officers, Local Congress leader and people were also present on this occasion in large number.

Saroori flag-off tracking tour of 150 students.

Sarthal (Kishtwar), November 24: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori in presence of Devan Thakur, District Youth Services and Sports Officer today flag off the two days long tracking tour of school children from Higher Secondary school Sarthal in which 150 students from different High/Higher Secondary Schools of Kishtwar participated. In addition to this 9 staff members accompanied the students during the tour. The tour which was organized by Youth, service and sports department Kishtwar will start from Sarthal and after tracking to Bimalnag via Ghan, Chandali and Pura will come to an end.

While speaking on this occasion, Saroori while extending his best wishes to the touring students said that the aim and objective of organizing this type of program is to generate the interest among the students towards the nature and beauty of the area. He said that this type of tours will also help the student to work on their fitness. He said that sports is an important part of life and plays an important role in overall development of a personality of an individual, beside keeps the people healthy and fit, beside keeps a person mentally and physically fit. He said that the government has taken several steps for promoting sports in rural areas and added that central government has provided funds to the state government for developing and construction of play fields in rural areas.

Earlier, many prominent local personalities of the area hailing from National Conference including Farooq Ahmed Reshi, Ghulam Mohammed Reshi, Ghulam Ahmed and others joined Congress party in front of Saroori. New incumbent shows full faith on the leadership of Saroori who works day and night for the welfare of common poor masses.

Meanwhile a deputation led by NSUI President GDC Kishtwar led Kajal Badyal also met Saroori at his Kishtwar residence and highlighted the demands of student Community of Kishtwar. She put forth various demands including hostel facility for the students, safe drinking water, introduction of more subjects like BCA, BBA, subjects of Arts stream etc, additional blocks for science stream, introduction of modern library, fencing of College premises, blacktop of College road and security in the college premises.

Saroori assured full cooperation to NSUI leadership and further assured them that their problems will be addressed on top priority.

Prominent among those including Senior Congress Leader Mushtaq Hap, Ghulam Qadir Reshi, Haji Ghulam Mohd, Mohd Ayub, Ghulam Mohd ReshiKailash Chander, Master Ikhlaq, Haji Ghulam Mohammad, Ahmar Sehzad, Imtiyaz Tappal, Warsha Wazir and others present.

Public representatives best judges to check, verify development works: - Sagar

Jammu, November 20- Minister for Rural Development and Panchayti Raj Ali Muhammad Sagar said that the public representatives are best judges to check and verify the progress of ongoing developmental works taken up by the government in their respective areas under various flagship programmes.

The Minister was chairing a meeting of officers convened to review the physical and financial achievements registered under MGNREGA, IAY, BRGF and other centrally and sponsored schemes being implemented on erstwhile district Doda.

The Minister for Roads and Buildings (R&B) Abdul Majid Wani, Legislators Ghulam Muhammad Saroori, Muhammad Sharief Niaz, Ashok Kumar, Naresh Kumar (MLC) and Sham Lal Bhagat (MLC), Commissioner/Secretary Rural Development Department Farooq Ahmad Peer, Director Rural Development, Jammu, Executive Engineer MGNREGA Doda all Block Development Officers of 9 blocks of erstwhile district Doda and senior officers of various departments attended the meeting.

The Minister exhorted upon the officers to come on the expectations of the people as the government has committed to provide them transparent, accountable and good governance adding that no comprise on delaying the completion of works and making payments in time to the concerned on one pretext or the other shall be tolerated.

Maintaining that the government is committed for ensuring overall and sustained development of the state, Sagar said that the people should come forward and exhibit a participatory role in the day today governance and the development initiatives undertaken by the government.

While taking review the Minister was informed that a whooping amount of Rs 138 crore are being incurred in the erstwhile district Doda under flagship programmes of MGNREGA, IAY, BRGF and CD& Pyts during the year 2013-14. It was also given out in the meeting that an amount of Rs 67.10 crore has been released so far out of which an amount of Rs 62.40 crore has been incurred till ending October 2013 against the 11583 works taken up by in various areas.

It was also given out in the meeting that 5188 works has been completed while as the rest work is in full swung. The meeting was informed that 1405937 man days have been generated in the district during the period.

The meeting was informed that 120 Panchayat Ghars are being constructed in the erstwhile district Doda for which an amount of Rs 1.37 crore has been released.

Various deputations called upon Saroori; apprised him about their problems

Kishtwar, 23 November: - Several deputations of Congress party and student wing NSUI from far-flung areas of the Kishtwar district today called upon the Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori at his residence Kishtwar and apprised him about their problems.

A deputation led by NSUI President GDC Kishtwar, Kajal Badyal also met Mr. Saroori and highlighted the demands of student Community of Kishtwar.

Kajal Badyal put forth various demands including hostel facility for the students, safe drinking water, introduction of more subjects like BCA, BBA, subjects of Arts stream, History, Sociology etc, additional blocks for science stream, introduce modern library, fencing of College, blacktop of College road and security in the college premises, .

Another deputation led by Secretary JKPCC Thakur Jughal Bhandari also meet Mr. Saroori and apprised him about the problems being faced by Congress workers at grass root level besides urged him to personally take keen interest and direct the executing agency of the power projects to recruit local unemployed youths of the district in the project and to commence the work on the project.

The deputation also informed MLA Saroori that the ration is not available all the times in far flung areas of district Kishtwar.

Saroori gave a patient hearing to the deputation and assured the deputations that he will take up the demands with the concerned departments for immediate redressal.

Saroori also congratulate newly elected student representatives body besides said that Congress party is serious to address the genuine problems of the public on priority and administration has been geared up to attend these problems.

On the occasion all the NSUI members pledged to fight for the cause of students and make the organization strong at grass root level.

Prominent others who present including Senior Congress Leader Mushtaq Hap, Mohinder Singh Parihar, District President INTUC Kishtwar Raj Badyal, Seval Dal district Chief Kishtwar Ravi Kumar Shan, Vice President INTUC Kishtwar Bashir Ahmed Baghwan,Vice President GDC Kishtwar Imtiyaz Tappal, Congress block President Drabshallah Mohd Iqbal Keen, Congress Sarpanches including Khalid Sheikh, Noor Hussain, Surjeet Badyal, Abid Hussain, Youth congress leader Kishtwar Advocate Suman Thakur, NSUI activist including Ahmer Shehzad Sheikh, Touseef Iqbal, Amir Iqbal, Vickey Shan, Dheeraj Prakash, Varsha Waizr, Priya Thakur, Fiza Mir, Mehhmood Nawaz, Mudassar Ahmed, Irfan Ahmed, Mubasshar Ahmed, Bilal Ahmed and others.

Saroori condoles with Vikar

Jammu, November 20: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal, Mr. Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, today has condoled the sad demise of Mr. Abdul Rashid Wani father-in-law of Minister of State for Technical Education, Rural Development and Information, Mr. Vikar Rasool Wani.

Saroori expressed solidarity with the bereaved family, conveyed his sympathy.

He prayed to the Almighty Allah for blessing peace to the departed soul beside a place for him in heaven.

Saroori also prayed to Almighty Allah to give strength to the family members of the deceased to bear irreparable loss.

J&K Speaker constitutes Press Awards Committee

Jammu, 20 November: - Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly speaker Mubarak Gul, constituted a Press Awards Committee.

The committee has been constituted to select newspapers and news agencies for conferring with first, second and third awards for the year 2013-14.

The committee will be headed by MLA, G M Saroori and Abdul Gani Malik.

While T. Namgiyal, Jugal Kishore, Balwant Singh Mankotia, Syed Basharat Ahmad Bukhari and Peer Afaq Ahmad would be its members.

Public participation is very essential in success of any scheme: Saroori

Foundation stone of Thathri-Jangalwar, IWMP laid.

Kandothe (Doda). 18 November: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today inaugurated Thathri-Jangalwar integrated water Management Programme (IWMP) project in an area at entry point Kandothe.

He laid the foundation stone of the entry Point and addressed a gathering in an interaction cum awareness Camp. The Project is being executed at a cost of Rs.7.54 crores and covering 6 villages including Kandote, Thathri, Barshalla, Phagsoo, Jangalwar and Nandana.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Imam Din, Project officer IWMP Doda Yasar Arafat Zargar, Executive Engineer R&B Madan Lal, Tehsildar Thathri Ghulam Nabi, Sarpanches Abdul Razzak, Hari Ram, Nazir Hajam, congress Block President Thathri Mohammad Iqbal Teli, Working Block President Asgar Khangi, other Various line officers from Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Soil conservation, other district Officers, and prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Saroori said that the activities under the IWMP programme are identified in the area through the local Panchayat and the IWMP programme is being implemented in the state through state level nodal agency SLNA and has been started in district Kishtwar and Doda from this year.

“Public participation is very essential in success of any programme and we have to ensure the same by involving the people at grass-root level. He impressed upon Project Manager to organise awareness programmes in each Panchayat Halqa to disseminate awareness among people regarding these Project”, Saroori said while addressing gathering.

Giving details about the various flagship programmes currently underway for the socio-economic development of the people, Saroori said that implementation of these programmes has resulted in marked improvement in the living standards of the people across the state including far flung and backward pockets and given them access to various basic facilitates. He said during the last ten years hundreds of the schools have been opened and upgraded in Inderwal constituency.

He said that the 70 percent of Inderwal Constituency has been electrified during the period and the remaining uncovered area will be electrified soon.

People of Thathri lauded MLA Saroori evincing personal interest in the development of the backward and far flung areas like Thathri, Kandote, Phigsoo, Bathri, Kencha, Sharote, Tanta and other areas and they hoped that the Inderwal in general and Thathri in particular would receive affectionate patronage from Saroori in future also.

In his address ADC Doda Imam Din, said that the panchayats of different areas should also be involved in preparing the perspective plans, so that the scope of participation and implementation of this programme is widened. He informed that under the project water harvesting structures, soil conservation works, protection bund and plantation over barren land is carried out to protect agricultural, Horticultural and other lands from erosion.

While addressing Project Officer IWMP Doda, Yasir Arfat Zargar, gave the detail about the scheme including its objective i.e. Poverty alleviation through livelihood activities and microenterprises, groundwater recharge through treatment of the degraded area, plantation, formation of self help groups for fisheries, dairy, poultry, sericulture, etc. Thus the main objective of the scheme is people participation for removal of ecological degradation and sustainable development.

Thathri-Jangalwar project will run for 5-7 Years during which 5000 hacters area at an estimate cost of 7.54 crores. During the current financial year 2013-2014 main focus is on awareness generation, detailed project report (DPR) preparation and entry point activities will be taken up.

Saroori inaugurated Green Land public school at Chatroo.

Chatroo (Kishtwar), 17 November: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal today have called for a change in the present education system with emphasis on introducing moral education subject from the primary level for overall development of the child.

Addressing a galaxy of audience after inauguration of Green Land Public School at Tehsil Chatroo, district Kishtwar here today, MLA Saroori said that in absence of moral education in the schools the younger generation is distancing from the basic fundamentals of life as they are just focusing on the value added education. This has resulted in erosion in the society and lot of unrest among the younger generation, he added.

MLA Saroori said that district Kishtwar once used to be the guiding force in the spirituality and moral education to other districts of the state. But, during the past two to three decades, the moral values have eroded gradually and society has been confronting with many challenges on account of social evils, crimes against the women, drug addiction, dowry deaths and other anti-social issues.

The need of the hour is to promote the moral ethics and rich heritage to revive the old traditions which strengthen bonds of mutual brotherhood and patriotism, especially to save the younger generation, MLA Saroori asserted.

Saying that teachers have greater responsibility to nurture the children in right direction, the MLA Saroori maintained that teachers must uphold the credibility of this noble profession and produce quality product for the nation.

Lauding the role of private sector in the education field, the Saroori said that district Kishtwar has witnessed a great improvement in the literacy rate with a larger participation and contribution by the private institutions. He said Government endevours to promote the education sector to further improve this vital area.

He urged upon the private institutions to concentrate on quality as well as moral education and produce best stuff to meet the global challenges. He stressed on giving concessions to the poor and needy children in the private schools as a goodwill gesture to uplift them in the society.

Congratulating the management for the new venture, Saroori said that the school will prove great help to the rural students. He wished all success for the new school and hoped that the Green Land Public school will achieve excellence in promoting education in the Chatroo area.

While addressing Chairman of Green Land Public School Chatroo Mohammad Saleem Wani said without MLA Saroori Green land public school was not possible. He said MLA Saroori has been supported by the people to the hilt and people continued support would ensure an equitable development of all the area in Inderwal constituency. He urged public of Inderwal to continue supporting him so that whatever little has been left is accomplished by our leader Mr. Saroori.

Others who spoke on the occasion were BMO Chatroo Dr. Yaqoob, Senior Congress Leader Mushtaq Hap, Mansoor Ahmed Mattoo, Jawaz Malik and others.

Later Mr. Saroori visited Dellar area of Chatroo and inspected 3Km long Deller pain to Deller Bala road which is being constructed by PMGSY department at an estimate cost of 3.5 crores.

People of the Chatroo appreciated the efforts of MLA Saroori for development of the common masses especially the rural area and far flung area of Chatroo.

Deputations from Deller also meet Saroori and put forth various demands including Staff for schools, early competition of road and day to day problem.

Saroori assured genuine demands will be solved at an earliest besides said he would continue its efforts to undertake various need based projects for the local populace, especially for a better future for the people of Inderwal constituency.

Prominent among those SHO Chatroo Farooq Ahmed, Congress block President Chatroo Ghulam Qadir Sheikh, Sarpanch Association Chatroo block Tariq Wani, Ghulam Mohammad Kohli, Ghulam Mustafa Wani, Ghulam Haider, Altaf Malik and people in large were present on the occasion.

Saroori tour extensive tour of his hometown Sarthal

Inspected Hasti-Sarthal Mata Devi Ji road, Duri-Ghan road; asked officers to pace up the work

KISHTWAR, NOVEMBER 16: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today conducted an extensive tour of his hometown Sarthal, block Drabshallah of district Kishtwar.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Saroori said that the Centre Government has started various social and developmental schemes for upliftment of women, children, old aged and other weaker sections of the society. He said that necessary instructions have been passed to the officers to ensure that these are implemented in such a way, so that the benefit percolates to the genuine beneficiaries.

He also appealed the people to ensure their participation in all spheres of development and growth in their areas for effective implementation of development programmes being launched under various state and centrally sponsored schemes.

On the occasion people apprised the MLA Saroori about the day to day problem being faced by them and put forth various demands which include acquiring of land for play ground at Govt. Higher Secondary Sarthal, compensation of roads, electricity to UN-electrify villages, improvement of water supply, Health sub-centres and other day to day problems.

Saroori on spot gave direction to officers concerned to mitigate the problem of the general public besides said that after the sanction of 2nd phase of RGGVY whole area will be electrified and assured the public that their genuine demands will be fulfill in a shortest possible time.

He also inspected Hasti-Sarthal Devi Ji road which is constructed under CRF at an estimate cost of 15 crores and Duri-Ghan road which is constructed by PMGSY department at an estimated cost of 6 crores. He said that by connecting various remote and inaccessible villages with the main land, the necessary connectivity is being provided to these which would ensure their socio-economic development, besides ensuring that the pace of development in other spheres of life is also accelerated.

Saroori directed Xeen R&B Kishtwar Madan Lal to immediately inspect and speed up Hasti-Sarthal Devi Ji road as large number of people from across the state and outside take part in the Sri Sarthal Devi Mata Yatra every year beside personally monitor and complete these two road project on time bonded period.

“Schemes like MGNREGA have been largely responsible for accelerating the development of rural and far-flung areas by ensuring the creation of assets, developmental activities, besides providing the much needed employment to the people at their doorsteps”, Saroori said this while addressing at Ghan Chandali.

Later Saroori chaired meeting of Education department at Sarthal in which “he asked Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kishtwar to speed up the process of recruitment at all levels in government schools besides expediting the pace of civil works in the institutions”, he said in a meeting of the department here.

He said prestigious flagship programmes of SSA and RMSA have been a boon for the education sector in the area.

New schools have been opened besides up-grading status of already operating schools under these schemes to boost the education sector in Inderwal Constituncy, Saroori said.

The Prominent among those were present were Chief Executive Officer Kishtwar Rajinder Singh, XEEN PDD Kishtwar Asgar Hussain, XEEN R&B Kishtwar Madan Lal, Congress Leader and Sarpanch Mohammad Aslam Saroori, Sarpanch Kailash Chander, Subash Chander, Sher Singh, Rakesh Kumar, Vice Sarpanch Ram Bhagat, Chairman Pora Varinder Singh, Chairman Panchayat Master Shib Nath, Surinder Singh Baloria, Babu, Brig Lal, Thakur Lal Devali, people in large and other sectoral officers accompanied Saroori during the said tour.

Azad pays obeisance at shrines of Sufi, saints.

Visits residences of Kishtwar communal riots victims

Kishtwar, Nov 16: Union Health and Family welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad visited the residence of two Kishtwar communal riots victims and expressed his grief and sorrow over the loss of life in August 9 Kishtwar communal violence.

Azad visited the house of Arvind Raj Baghat and Bashir Ahmed Moochi of Sangrabata Kishtwar. During his visit to the homes of victims, the family members of the deceased put forth their views before Union Minister and demanded justice for the family members who lost their lives in communal violence.

Earlier Azad also visited the shrines of 17th century Sufi saints Hazrat Shah Mohammad Fareed-ud-Din Baghdadi (RTA) and Hazrat Shah Mohammad Asrar-ud-Din Baghdadi (RTA) and prayed for the peace and tranquility of Kishtwar and state of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Azad offered prayers seeking for the peace, prosperity and tranquility of state and Kishtwar District”.

Azad also appreciated the secular credentials and termed Saroori as mass leader representing poor’s at large and bring the fore the genuine problems.

Both the shrines are considered as symbol of communal harmony and brotherhood as people from both the communities pays obeisance at both the shrines every day.

He was accompanied by Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammed Saroori, DC Kishtwar Basheer Khan, other officials of District administration, police, and local congress leaders.

Focus attention on rural, hilly areas: Azad

Azad announces 20 bedded hospitals for Bunjwah

Bunjwah (Kishtwar), 15 November: - Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ghulam Nabi Azad who is on a three day visit to erstwhile District Doda and Jammu today visited Gondoh Bhalessa, Bunjwah area and addressed a Public meetings at Nali Bunjwah.

Addressing the mammoth gathering here at Nail Bunjwah, district Kishtwar, in which more than 10,000 people from Bunjwah and its adjoining areas had gathered at the rally venue to listen to the Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Azad said that focused attention needs to be placed on the development of rural and hilly areas of the state. He said the benefits of different state and centrally sponsored schemes must percolate down to the poor people.

He also said peace is imperative for development and the situation had improved in Jammu and Kashmir since some years.

“We have observed that in 2013 the state witnessed lowest violence-related incidents in the past more than two decades. But still we have to put an end to such incidents,” Azad said.

Azad asked the people to maintain communal harmony adding that there was no place for communal mindset in country like India where the people of different communities live with pride.

Sharing his own experiences, he said “First time I became Member Parliaments from a constituency in Maharashtra where only 5 percent people are Muslims while remaining 95 belong to other religions”.

He advised the people to rise to the occasion and work jointly for the development of the society.

On the occasion people raises slogans Azd sb zindabad, hamara leader kaisa howa Azad sb jaisa ho and we Want Azad to become CM J&K once again.

Azad while addressing mammoth gathering at Bunjwah asked the people to join the electoral process at all levels so that the upcoming generation was provided a better atmosphere. “Election is the only way through which people express their feelings and aspirations. All our schemes will not be benefited until a democratic set up is established in every sphere, including political and economic,” Azad said.

The Union Health Minister was hopeful that when the power projects of Erstwhile Doda district will be completed in the area, it will change the fortunes of people of the state.

“I hope these power project will bring happiness among people of Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen our state in terms of development.

Mr Azad also told the gathering that the UPA Government has initiated lot of development projects in the State especially on health front. He announced 10 bedded hospital, Doctor Quarter, building for PHC Nali at a cost of 4 crores and also announced same for PHC Patnazi to improve health scenario in the Bunjwah.

The Union Minister said that far flung districts of the state which included Ramban, Kishtwar and Doda were being given special attention in respect of development and welfare by the central government. He said that schemes like RMSA and SSA were under implementation to extend quality education facilities to the far flung areas, RGGVY will provide electricity to every nook and corner of the state and urge government to immediately submit DPR for RGGVY 2nd phase so that same will be sanction by Government of India at an earliest and about PMGSY scheme Azad shown anguish and said Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh sanctioned financial assistance of Rs 710 crore for Jammu and Kashmir to meet the requirements for land compensation under Pradan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) but still compensation of roads are not been paid at speed up rate.

He said that by the end of 2014, entire Bunjwah area will be electrified. Azad directed state R&B Minister to immediately construct Dak Bunglow at Nali Bunjwah and complete the road from Thathri to Jalapur which is been constructed under CRF at an earliest, so that people will avail maximum benefit from these schemes besides directed Minister for PHE to immediately submit a DPR of Canal Kankore Patnazi to Binoon Nali as there is shortage of water in the area due to this canal people would get better water facility and will curb the water crisis in the area.

People of the Bunjwah stressed from Degree College for Bunjwah and police recruitment for unemployed youth of the area, Azad assured people of Bunjwah that he will meet with Union HRD Minister and next year College will be sanctioned for Bunjwah and about Police recruitment he said he will write to Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah for police recruitment as from last 5 years no police recruitment took place in Bunjwah, Khara, Saroor, Sarthal, Chatroo and other areas of far flung.

MP Lal Singh in his address said liberal funding by central government, a revolution of progress and prosperity had been recorded in Jammu and Kashmir during the last ten years beside said he had given Rs two lack each from his MPLAD funds to each panchayat of Inderwal Constituency for the development of Inderwal.

Saroori, while addressing the public meetings, said that Azad is the Congress leader who gave an entirely new direction to the development and clean politics in Jammu and Kashmir. “You can see that Congress will play a crucial role in the formation of next Government in J&K. “Whether anyone from the two (National Conference and People’s Democratic Party) shall remain in power or not (after 2014 Assembly elections), Congress will remain in power in coalition with any of the two, Congress party is sure to form next government in J&K and union health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad would be chief minister.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the Union Minister for evincing personal interest in the development of Inderwal, Saroori said that Azad left no stone unturned in giving fillip to several sectors related to common masses by providing liberal funding from the central government. He hoped that the state in general and Inderwal in particular would receive affectionate patronage from Azad in future also.

Earlier, Azad laid foundation stone of 100 bedded hospitals at Gondoh Bhaleesa at an estimated cost of Rs. 53 crores.

On this occasion Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, Member of Parliament Udhampur-Doda constituency Ch. Lal Singh, Senior Congress Leaders including Haji Mohammad Shafi, Mushtaq Hap, Mohammad Aslam Saroori, Congress Block President Drabshallah Mohammad Iqbal Keen, Khalid Hussain Sheikh, Farooq Want, Mohd Shafi, Haji Noor Mohammad, Ch Issaq, Ch Masoodi, Vinod Kumar, Ch Misroo, Shamas Din, Akhtar Tatani, Sabdar Hussain, Asgar Khangi, Mansoor Ahmed, Mushtaq Hajam, National Conference block president Drabshallah Tariq keen and people in large were present to listen the view of son of the soil Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Saroori hosted dinner party for Azad.

Kishtwar, 14 November: - Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today hosted a dinner party here at his residence at Kishtwar in honour of India’s best Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad who is on his three days extensive tour of erstwhile Doda district and Jammu.

The dinner was participated by the Member of Parliament Udhampur-Doda constituency Ch. Lal Singh, Local Congress Leaders and Senior Officers from civil, army and police administration.

MLA Saroori shared good wishes with the India’s best ever Union Health Minister and prayed for his good health and success.

Reciprocating the wishes, the Union Health Minister prayed for peace, development and prosperity of the State and its people.

Azad appreciated the role of Mr. Saroori in maintaining the communal harmony and honest approach in dealing with political and development affairs.

Tomorrow Mr. Azad along with MLA Saroori and MP Lal Singh shall visit Bunjwah, Thathri, Bhalessa area of Inderwal Constituency and other areas of the districts.

Lays foundation of 48 MW Lower Kalnai HEP, addresses public meeting

Economic autonomy of J&K depends on power generation: Omar

Says 500 MW Thermal Power Project is in offing

THATHRI (DODA), NOVEMBER 13 – In his endeavour to make Jammu and Kashmir self-reliance in power generation and achieve financial autonomy to move forward on road to progress and prosperity, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday laid foundation of 48 MW Lower Kalnai Hydro Power Project here and indicated setting up of 500 MW Thermal Project soon from the Coal Block allotted by the Government of India to the State for generation of thermal power.

Addressing a public meeting after laying the foundation of Lower Kalnai HEP, the Chief Minister said that indigenous generation of hydro energy is the right initiative to achieve economic goals and generate substantial employment and business activities for youth particularly in far-off villages and remote areas.

“We have targeted generation of 9000 MWs of power within next 7 to 8 years and necessary edifice has already been laid to achieve this stupendous task”, he said and added that the projects for generation of 2000 MWs of hydro electricity have been cleared and are under various stages of implementation. He said local generation of 9000 MWs would not only enable the State to provide 24x7 electric supply to domestic consumers and industry but its export would generate enough funds to launch wide-ranging development projects in various sectors of development. “It would also help to generate large scale employment and give rise to various economic activities across the State”.

Omar Abdullah said that power generation sector has been flagged as significantly important sector by the coalition government. He added that the harnessing of this sector which was left under focused hitherto promises bright and prosperous future to the State and its people.

“Though the gestation periods of the dozens of power projects cleared by my government under various modes are longer and will not necessarily benefit the present dispensation by way of receiving vote bank support of the people, yet the only aim of my government is to seek sustained economic prosperity and financial autonomy of the State”, he said and listed the measures put in place by his government to harness vast available hydro electric potential of the State.

The Chief Minister said that the power companies have been given strict directions to employ locals in project implementation works. He said power companies have also been roped in to be partners in 7 ITIs so that required skill development programmes are run in these institutions and befitting technicians and skilled youth are produced to get absorbed in upcoming power projects. He said power companies have also been directed to allot feasible works to the local contractors and transport operators so that the economic benefits accrue to various categories.

The public meeting was also address by Minister of State for Power, Vikar Rasool and MLA Inderwal G. M. Saroori.

Among others who were present MLA Kishtwar Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, MLC Najeeb Suharwordhy, Commissioner Secretary Power and others.

48 MW Lower Kalnai Hydro Electric Project is run of the river projected located on Lower Kalnai Nallah, a tributary of the Chenab River in Thathri town of District Doda about 200 kilometres from Jammu. The project envisages construction of a concrete gravity dam of 49 m height across Lower Kalnai Nallah at Dunadi about 200 m downstream of the confluence of Upper Kalnai and Kangunegad Nallahs. The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 576.87 crore and is scheduled to be completed in 4 years.

Two people including a minor died due to roof collapse in Thathri.

Saroori shock over death of two people

KISHTWAR NOV 13: Two persons including 8 year old girl died after front portion of roof of under construction house collapsed in Nowtas village of Thathri Tehsil in Doda District.

As per the locals, some people has assembled on the roof top of the under construction house to witness the Omar Abdullah plane flying over Thatri, but added that due to supersonic waves of state helicopter a house was re-vibrated as a result of which roof top over veranda of the building got collapsed resulted into death of two persons.

As soon as the incident took place, the people living nearby rush to the spot and started rescue operation and recovered the death bodies of both the deceased.

Senior Congress Leader and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori along with Tehsildar Thathri and Senior police officers who was in the area in connection with Omar Abdullah visit to Dunadi village of Kishtwar District for inauguration of 48 MW Lower Kalni Power project also rush to the spot and shifted the dead bodies of both the deceased to hospital and after conducting the autopsy of both the deceased, the dead bodies were handed over to the family members for burial.

As per police, the deceased were identified as 23 year old labourer Mohammed Sadiq son of Noor Din and 9 year old Tanya Banoo daughter of Shah Din Butt both resident of Thatri.

The incident has spread a shocking wave in the Thathri area. MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori also visited the deceased house and expressed his grief and sorrow over the tragic death of Mohammed Sadiq and Tanya Banoo. 

Saroori urged government to pay compensation in favour of deceased family. He conveyed sympathy and solidarity with the deceased family. He prayed to Almighty Allah for blessing peace to the departed souls beside a place for them in a heaven.

He also prayed to Almighty Allah to give strength to the family members of the decreased to bear irreparable loss.

Among others who were present were Congress block president Thathri Mohammad Iqbal Teli, Working block president Thathri Asgar Khangi, Akhtar Tatani, Sarfraz Khan, Mansoor Ahmed, Abid Hussain and others were also present.