Jammu & Kashmir

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.

KULGAM, JUNE 12: A comprehensive training session for Superintendents and Deputy Superintendents responsible for overseeing the upcoming OMR-based examination for the posts of Supervisor in the Social Welfare Department was conducted today at Kulgam.

The training was imparted by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Vikar Ahmad Giri, who also serves as the Chief Inspector, along with a representative from the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB).

The examination is scheduled to be held on June 23, 2024, across 25 examination centers in District Kulgam. A total of 6739 candidates are expected to appear for the examination.

During the training session, strict instructions were reiterated to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination.

It was emphasized that electronic gadgets will not be allowed inside the examination centers. Candidates are also reminded to bring one passport size photograph along with them on the day of the examination.

KULGAM, JUNE 12: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan today chaired a meeting of the District Level Committee (DLC) under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to discuss measures aimed at curbing drug abuse and the narcotic trade in the district.

The meeting thoroughly reviewed the actions taken by concerned departments to combat the drug menace. It was shared that 16 Panchayats have been declared drug-free in the district so far.

Additionally, it was reported that 15 drug peddlers were arrested, and 12 FIRs were registered during the current month.

The DC instructed the concerned authorities to convene regular meetings of Tehsil and Gram Panchayat level committees.

He emphasized the implementation of stringent measures to ensure zero cultivation of illicit crops in the district.

The Social Welfare Department was tasked with formulating a comprehensive plan for impactful awareness programs and providing necessary training to the already constituted Panchayat Level Committees.

They were directed to devise a training schedule on a Tehsil-wise basis.

The Assistant Drug Controller reported on the recent inspections of pharmacies, with 67 inspections conducted during the current month. Notably, it was mentioned that a 100% target had been achieved in the installation of CCTV cameras.

The DC directed to achieve a 100% target in CBS (Control Board System) by the end of this month. Furthermore, the Assistant Drug Controller was instructed to intensify pharmacy inspections and cancel the licenses of those not adhering to the guidelines.

The meeting was attended by ADC Viqar Ahmed Giri, ACD Syed Naseer, ACR Mushtaq Ahmad, SDM Noorabad Bashir Ul Hassan, ACP Nazia Hassan, DSP HQ, and other officers from police and civil administration.

BUDGAM, JUNE 12: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Akshay Labroo today convened a meeting of officers to review arrangements being put in place for the ensuing month of Muharram- ul-Haram.

At the outset, representatives from different Shia Anjumans who attended the meeting offered various suggestions regarding arrangements that can be put in place for smooth and seamless observation of Muharram.

Stressing that prompt and elaborative arrangements are put in place, the DC directed all officers to ensure proactive steps are taken to cater to the requirements well in advance.

He asked different delegations to provide a detailed list of priority works corresponding to the ensuing month of Muharram.

The meeting among others was attended by ADC Budgam, Mehraj ud Din; ASP Budgam, Raghav S; CPO Budgam, All SDMs, ACD, ACP, CMO, Ex. Engineers of R&B, PDD and PHE, all Tehsildars, all EOs and others concerned.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 12: Department of ARI & Trainings is conducting series of Administrative inspections across the UT and today teams headed by Secretary technical ARI and trainings, Dr. Abdul Kabir Dar conducted inspection of Government Medical College Srinagar and Super Speciality Hospital, underscoring the critical importance of administrative inspections in government offices.

The team met Principal GMC Srinagar, Dr. IFFAT Hassan Shah; Administrator Associated Hospitals, Mohammad Ashraf Hakak and various HoDs of different specialities.

These inspections play a vital role in ensuring accountability, efficiency and transparency across all levels of government operations. They ensure that government offices adhere to laws, regulations, and policies, reducing the risk of corruption and misuse of public resources. By fostering a culture of integrity and transparency, these inspections bolster public trust in government institutions.

These inspections also enhance efficiency and effectiveness by identifying inefficiencies and areas needing improvement. This leads to better allocation of resources, streamlined processes and improved service delivery, ultimately benefiting the public.

The proactive identification of potential risks through these inspections enables the implementation of measures to mitigate issues such as data breaches, financial irregularities and operational disruptions.

These inspections assess employee performance and adherence to ethical standards, contributing to a professional and effective workforce. Feedback from these inspections provides valuable insights for continuous improvement, ensuring that government offices remain adaptable to changing needs and expectations of Government policy being implemented for public good on the ground.

The recent detailed inspections of ten departments and directorates have resulted in numerous positive outcomes. These include the identification and rectification of inefficiencies, improved resource allocation, and enhanced service delivery. The inspections have reinforced compliance with regulations and promoted a culture of accountability and transparency.

The proactive measures taken have prevented potential risks, ensuring the continued integrity and efficiency of government operations.

Employee performance evaluations have highlighted areas for professional development, further strengthening the workforce.

The Department of ARI & Trainings of Jammu and Kashmir remains is committed to maintain the transparency in all the departments and assist the authorities in achieving this goal.