June 2024

SRINAGAR, JUNE 13: The Director, Geology & Mining conducted an exhaustive visit of quarry belts viz. Athwajan, Alfatha, Panthachowk, Aripora, Shaliguf and Zewan A, B, and C in Srinagar District to have an on spot assessment and overview of the quarry belts.

During the visit, Director passed spot directions to put on hold the Disposal permits issued for lifting of loose material.

He laid emphasis to revisit Disposal permit policy in vogue. This is aimed to plug the pilferage in the guise and garb of loose material Disposal Permits.

The Director ordered that an expert committee headed by Joint Director, Kashmir shall shortly be constituted with a mandate, to quantify the loose material and recommend a mechanism for expeditious auctioning of the loose material.

During the visit, the Director was accompanied by Joint Director, Kashmir, Vigilance and Monitoring Team, Mineral Officer, Kashmir and a team of Geologists.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 13: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat has conveyed his greetings to Kashmiri Pandits on the occasion of Mela Kheer Bhawani.

In his felicitation message, Dr Bilal extended his greetings to people particularly Pandit brethren on Mela Kheer Bhawani.

The DC has prayed that the occasion may prove harbinger of peace and prosperity for the people. He said annual celebration of the Mela reinvigorates and strengthens the bonds of communal harmony and brotherhood, the age old legacy and the hallmark of Kashmir’s composite culture and ethos.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 13: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat has felicitated people on the auspicious occasion of Urs of Hazrat Ameer-e-Kabeer, Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA).

In his message، Dr۔ Bilal said that Hazrat Ameer-e-Kabeer, Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA) has played a great role in bringing Islam to Kashmir and enriching its cultural and spiritual ethos.

while highlighting the ‘unparalleled’ contributions and legacy of Ameer-e-Kabeer (RA), DC said said his role in spreading Islamic education, enlightenment and peace in Kashmir has formed the basis of the society’s cultural and religious identity.

Dr Bilal further said that it was because of Shah-e-Hamdan’s vision that Jammu and Kashmir became a hub of handicrafts of global fame and repute. DC added that “He (Shah-e-Hamdan) encouraged people to live a life of piety and discipline and there is need to imbibe from his life and teachings by present generation.

RAJOURI, JUNE 13: In a proactive measure to ensure the restoration, preservation and maintenance of architectural and heritage sites within the district, the District Development Commissioner Rajouri, Om Prakash Bhagat today chaired a pivotal meeting with the concerned officers.

During the meeting, a thorough discussion was held regarding the heritage structures of the district. It was highlighted that there are 13 such structures requiring immediate attention for restoration and preservation.

The Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for four prominent sites including Raghunath Temple Channi Prat; Mahakaleshwar Temple, Shaheed Ghar Qila Darhal Fort and Gurudwara Chattipatshai Rajouri have already been meticulously prepared and submitted to the concerned authorities for necessary action.

The DDC underscored the importance of expediting the preparation of DPRs for the remaining heritage structures. He directed the officers to ensure that these DPRs are completed and submitted at the earliest to facilitate prompt action and resource allocation.

The DDC emphasized the cultural and historical significance of these heritage sites, stating that their preservation is crucial for maintaining the rich heritage of the district and promoting tourism. He directed all departments to work in a coordinated manner to achieve the goals set forth in the heritage conservation scheme.

The meeting was attended by the ADDC, Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa; GM DIC, Fareed Kohli; SE PWD (R&B), Devi Dayal; DSEO, Sandeep Sharma; AD Tourism and other concerned officers.

KATHUA, JUNE 13: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas finalized the preparations for the upcoming JKSSB examination, in a meeting held at the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex in Kathua.

The JKSSB written examination for the post of Supervisor is scheduled for June 23 2024, from 11 am to 1 pm.

The DC held detailed discussion with stakeholders on the comprehensive arrangements necessary to ensure the seamless execution of the examination. It was decided that twenty-two (22) examination centers will be established across the district to accommodate all aspirants.

The meeting covered essential aspects such as drinking water facilities, power supply, seating arrangements, security protocols and videography procedures.

The DC laid thrust on the importance of close coordination among all stakeholders, urging them to work collaboratively to ensure the examination’s smooth and successful conduct. He also briefed officers on their specific roles and responsibilities to ensure the efficient execution of the JKSSB examination throughout the district.

The DC directed the Police Department to deploy female staff for frisking purposes, as the examination is exclusively for female aspirants.

Among others, ADC Kathua Ranjit Singh, SDM Hiranagar Rakesh Kumar, DSP Kathua Manjeet Singh, RTO, CEO, other officers, including Designated Superintendents and Tehsildars were present.

POONCH, JUNE 13: Secretary, Department of Disaster Management, Relief Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DDMRR&R), Anil Koul, today visited Sathra and convened a public darbar to assess and address grievances and demands of locals.

The public outreach program was attended by people from various parts of Sathra block, who raised their issues including early completion of JJM projects, hike in electricity bills, inclusion of unexplored areas of Mandi tehsil in the tourism map, construction of foot bridge at Kalani, macadamization of Sathra-Mandi road and other matters related to Health and Education sector.

Addressing the concerns of the public, the Secretary assured that all the issues raised will be addressed on a priority basis. He urged upon all the stakeholder departments to adopt a proactive and people friendly approach in delivering prompt public services.

Additional District Development Commissioner Poonch, Sandesh kumar Sharma, briefed the Administrative Secretary about the development initiatives and efforts undertaken by the district administration. He affirmed that all the public inputs obtained during the camp would be recorded and integrated into actionable plans.

The event was also attended by DDC Chairperson Poonch, Tazeem Akhter, Mohammad Saleem Malik, Shokit Qazmi besides district officers.

We are committed to affordable access to public healthcare and to build a healthy society: LG Sinha

SRINAGAR, JUNE 13: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today chaired the Governing Body Meeting of SKIMS, at Civil Secretariat.

Sh Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar; Advisor to Lt Governor; Sh Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sh Santosh D Vaidya, Principal Secretary, Finance Department; Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor; Dr M Srinivas, Director AIIMS New Delhi; Dr Rajiv Bahl, DG ICMR; Sh Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary, GAD; Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Health and other members attended the meeting.

This was the first meeting after the re-constitution of the Governing Body of SKIMS Soura, Srinagar.

The meeting held extensive deliberations on key aspects of patient-care services and gave in-principle approvals to various agenda items for improving the overall functioning of the reputed health institution.

The Lt Governor directed the concerned authorities to make systemic interventions for quality care, affordable and accessible healthcare services to the patients. It must be ensured that all the necessary medical equipments are being procured and functioning properly, he said.

“We must focus on people-centred approach for accessible, equitable and efficient delivery of healthcare services. We are committed to affordable access to public healthcare and to build a healthy society,” the Lt Governor further added.

The members of the Governing Body also shared their valuable suggestions and inputs on augmentation of healthcare facilities in SKIMS.

ANANTNAG, JUNE 12: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. S.F. Hamid today flagged-off vehicles carrying devotees to the Annual Kheer Bhawani Mela at the Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple Shrine in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering, SF.Hamid extended his best wishes for a safe and comfortable journey to all the pilgrims. He emphasized the importance of this pious yatra and expressed his delight in facilitating the devotees’ travel.

DC also took the opportunity to review the facilities at the Swami Vivekananda Ashram in Nagdandi Achabal, ensuring that the arrangements were in place to support the pilgrims adequately.

The devotees expressed their joy and gratitude for being part of this sacred journey.

This annual pilgrimage holds significant spiritual importance.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 12: On the directions Secretary to the Government, Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, a divisional-level workshop on Tobacco Control and PECA (Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act) was organized by the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, her.

Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather was the chief guest on the occasion, which was besides graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Amit Yadav, Deputy Director, Vital Strategies; Dr. Abdul Rouf Bhat, Project Director, AIDS Control Society, Jammu and Kashmir.

In his address, Director Health Services Kashmir emphasized the importance of tobacco control, particularly in protecting children from its harmful influence. He stressed that children are the future, and it is imperative to ensure they are kept away from tobacco, which is an addictive substance that can destroy their future and society.

To reinforce the role of effective tobacco control, Dr. Amit Yadav, Deputy Director of Tobacco Control, and Dr. Majid Shafi, Nodal Officer Mental Health Kashmir, delivered presentations on various provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and PECA. Their insights covered the legal frameworks and strategies necessary for robust tobacco regulation and public health safety.

Earlier, Dr. Mir Mushtaq, Nodal Officer for the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) in Kashmir, provided a detailed presentation on the current status of the NTCP program in the region. He highlighted the ongoing efforts and future plans to curb tobacco use and its associated health risks.

The meeting was attended by Chief Medical Officers, DHOs, Medical Superintendents, various NGOs and stakeholders from various departments committed to tobacco control and public health enhancement.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 12: The lush lawn of Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) Kothibagh was a sight of vibrant energy and enthusiasm today, as students from various institutions across District Srinagar came together for an impactful Environment Awareness Programme (EAP) and Mega Rally.

Under the chairmanship of Dr. Tasaduq Hussain Mir, Director School Education Kashmir, and graced by distinguished guests including Rakesh Magotra, Project Director Samagra Shiksha; Abdul Hamid Fani, Chief Education Officer Srinagar; Ajeet Kumar, State Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha; Nusrat Bukhari, Principal GGHSS Kothibagh; Mohammad Bilal Matoo, Range Officer, Social Forestry Range Srinagar, and Nazrana, DNO Summer Camps Srinagar, the programme was an inspiring display of commitment to environmental conservation.

The event commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address byNusrat Bukhari, Principal GGHSS Kothibagh, shedding light on the Summer Camps based on Mission Life Themes.

Director School Education Kashmir emphasized the impact of climate change on local communities and the need for proactive measures. He underscored the mantra of Mission LiFE, ‘Lifestyle for Environment’, and the pivotal role of Summer Camps as a mass movement to raise awareness and equip students and communities with strategies to combat environmental challenges.

Project Director Samagra Shiksha, highlighted the success of Summer Camps in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing their unifying power in protecting the Earth and inspiring positive change in everyday life. He applauded the enthusiastic participation of all the Districts of Union Territory and commended the efforts of Chief Education Officer Srinagar, for organizing Summer Camps in both Government and Private Schools, garnering national recognition on the Ministry of Education Official handle.

Chief Education Officer Srinagar, emphasized the unifying nature of Summer Camps, which garnered maximum school participation and focused on crucial themes such as adopting healthy lifestyles, sustainable food systems, reducing e-waste, waste, saving energy and water, and advocating against single-use plastic.

State Coordinator Samagra Shiksha, presented a detailed report on the Summer Camps, celebrating the remarkable achievement of Jammu and Kashmir, Union Territory, ranking 2nd in the entire country in the e-waste collection category.

Students of GGHSS Kothibagh, sang a self composed song on the environment protection. Student of GGHSS Khanyar performed LadiShah on e-waste. The performance of both the schools was applauded by all.

All the participants took the ‘Say No to Plastic’ Pledge.

Later a powerful Mega Rally, spearheaded by Director School Education Kashmir, Project Director Samagra Shiksha, State Coordinator Samagra Shiksha, and Chief Education Officer Srinagar, echoed through the streets of Srinagar, amplifying the urgent call to protect the environment.

The rally, which commenced from Government Girls Higher Secondary School Kothibagh, wound its way through the bustling thoroughfare of Poloview before culminating at the iconic historical clock tower of Srinagar. Students, with vibrant placards bearing compelling messages on environmental conservation, led the charge, raising fervent slogans advocating against plastic usage and highlighting other critical environmental concerns.

The dynamic participation of the students of GGHSS Kothibagh, GGHSS Khanyar, GGHSS Amirakadal, SP Higher Secondary School, BHSS Jawaharnagar and their impassioned display of environmental advocacy resonated with the community, drawing admiration and support from the onlookers and commuters who joined the rally.