Bilal Handoo
Srinagar
The state government owes Rs 1449.58 lacs to 394 local and national newspapers in state on account of advertisement charges, as was revealed by government in state Legislative council early this week.
Out of total 394 newspapers that are awaiting payment from state government, 380 are local newspapers and 14 are national newspapers.
In Jammu division alone, 211 local newspapers are in circulation that awaits an amount of Rs 453.45 lacs from the state government.
In Kashmir division, Rs 460.31 lacs amount stands pending to 169 newspapers. Besides, 14 national newspapers await Rs 535.82 lacs from state on account of advertisements.
The government has informed that amount was payable from 2006-07 up to Jan 31, 2013 in respect of National newspaper. While as, amount was payable from 2008-09 to Jan 31, 2013 in respect of local newspapers.
As per the rates of advertisement, the government earlier informed that charges has been revised and fixed as per government order, dated Jan 29, 2010.
