National

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 01: With an aim to identify potential entrepreneurs and to promote entrepreneurship at grassroots level, the baseline survey under Mission YUVA, a critical exercise to gather real-time data on existing and potential entrepreneurs commenced in Srinagar District today.

The Mission YUVA initiative is aimed to foster sustainable employment by supporting the creation of new micro-enterprises, expanding existing businesses, and promoting innovative entrepreneurial ventures. The objective of Baseline Survey under the initiative is to encourage entrepreneurship culture and a desirable ecosystem for helping the youth to start new enterprises and generate job opportunities for others.

The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat has urged the aspirants particularly the youth studying in different Universities/Colleges to take part in this survey for making it a meaningful exercise by providing feedback about their ambitions regarding self-employment.

He also urged the people in District to extend full support and cooperation to the designated Baseline Survey Enumerators visiting house to house for empowering youth of District to establish income generating units to earn livelihood with dignity and honour.

The DC also asked the educated youth to take advantage of this opportunity to get support to start their business and take the benefits under the scheme which includes a 25% government subsidy, 5% interest subvention, and an additional 10% subsidy for women and physically disabled persons for setting up business.

To conduct the Baseline Survey, the District Administration Srinagar has deployed a sufficient number of Supervisors and Investigators for the month-long survey under the Mission YUVA initiative.

KUPWARA, JANUARY 01: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Trehgam today chaired an interactive meeting with officers and people at block headquarter Kralpora to review the development scenario of Trehgam Assembly Constituency.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kupwara, M Rouf Rehman; ACD,CMO, CAO, CHO, DSHO, Dy. CEO, Executive Engineers of R&B, PMGSY, I&FC, besides, block level officers and general public were present in the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, MLA Trehgam said that the aim of holding the joint meeting of officers and the people was to bridge the gap between the people and administration for resolution of the public grievances and problems. He impressed upon the officers to work with utmost sincerity and dedication for the welfare of the common people to leave no gap for the grievances.

The MLA urged the Officers to increase their connection with the people at grassroots level to ease their sufferings. He emphasized the need for mass awareness of various Government schemes especially pertaining to Agriculture and allied departments and directed the concerned officers to monitor their schemes at ground level so that benefits reach to the deserving people.

On the occasion, the MLA took a detailed review of all departments and assessed their performance and progress.

Reviewing PMGSY, the Executive Engineer briefed the MLA about different ongoing road projects in the area. The MLA directed the Ex. Engineer to take up projects connecting unconnected habitations of Jumagund and Keran area which will facilitate the local population living in these pockets.

Regarding PHE, the MLA directed the AEE concerned to personally visit the areas having issues of water supply and fix responsibilities on his sub ordinate staff including JEs and Linemen so that the people do not suffer due to non-availability of water supply.

Reviewing RDD, the ACD informed that estimates of around 1500 works pertaining to the area have been done and progress exceeding 100% have been registered for man-days generation. The MLA asked the concerned officers to ensure the work is distributed equally so that the income status of people in large numbers is improved.

Reviewing Power sector, the MLA directed the concerned officials to ensure power supply strictly as per the curtailment schedule so that the people do not face any inconvenience in this bone chilling winter period.

The MLA also took a review of other departments including Health, Agriculture, Horticulture, Sheep Husbandry, Animal Husbandry and firewood status.

ADC Kupwara also spoke and assured all possible support from the District Administration regarding the redressal of grievances of the people.

Earlier, prominent and senior citizens of Trehgam constituency put forth various developmental issues of different villages before the chair which were heard patiently by the MLA.

UDHAMPUR, JANUARY 01: Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai today convened a public outreach programme at CFC Ghordi Jagir, as part of the weekly Block Diwas initiative.

The event witnessed the participation of DDC Member Rakesh Sharma, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Ramnagar Rajinder Singh, former BDC Chairman, Aarti Sharma and officers from line departments, along with former PRI members and local residents.

During the interaction, DDC Member Rakesh Sharma, former BDC Chairman Aarti Sharma, former Sarpanches, Panches and residents of nearby Panchayats highlighted several issues and demands seeking Tehsil status to Ghordi, establishment of a Kendriya Vidyalaya in the area, ensuring sustained progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission, quality checks for works undertaken by the RDD, repair of link roads under PMGSY and PWD and resolving issues related to new ration cards, filling of vacant posts of doctors in PHC Ghordi, addressing staff shortages in the PHE and Education sectors and mitigating the scarcity of drinking water etc.

The DC gave a patient hearing to the grievances and directed concerned officers to take immediate steps for their resolution. She emphasized the importance of proactive governance and urged officials to personally assess public issues and ensure their timely redressal.

The DC stressed that public outreach programs are integral to effective governance, enabling direct interaction with the people to understand their needs and obtain feedback on developmental works. She encouraged officers to work with dedication, sincerity and accountability, ensuring that genuine grievances are addressed at the earliest.

RAMBAN, JANUARY 01: Drug Control Officer Ramban Imtiyaz Ahmed conducted inspection of Medical Shops at Main Bazaar Gool with the objective to ensure compliance with the directives regarding the installation of CCTV cameras and the implementation of computerized billing systems and to ensure compliance with regulations regarding the maintaining of sale records of psychotropic drugs.

During the inspections, it was observed that Chemists had complied with the directions and installed CCTVs and started computerized billing. The inspections primarily focused on verifying the installation of CCTV cameras and Computerized Billing System and it was observed that all the inspected firms have installed CCTV cameras and adopted computerized billing systems.

KISHTWAR, JANUARY 01: To ensure transparency and accuracy in the preparation of the Panchayat Electoral Roll 2025, Electoral Registration Officer Idrees Lone convened a crucial meeting, here today.

The meeting focused on reviewing and addressing claims and objections regarding the draft Panchayat electoral rolls 2025 for Kishtwar, Palmar and Trigam Blocks.

The ERO stressed the importance of maintaining inclusivity and precision in the electoral roll preparation process. He urged the officials to strictly adhere to the guidelines prescribed by the Election Commission of India and ensure the timely resolution of all claims and objections.

The Panchayat Electoral Booth Officials (PEBOs) were instructed to conduct thorough verifications, promptly address any discrepancies highlighted by the public/Voters, if any in panchayats. He also emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to ensure that no eligible voter is left out.

Idrees Lone underlined the importance of voter awareness initiatives, encouraging eligible citizens to actively participate in the electoral process and ensuring they are well-informed about the claims and objections mechanism.

The meeting witnessed the participation of AEROs/BDOs and PEBOs from block Kishtwar, Palmar, and Trigam, alongside election officials and other concerned staff.

KISHTWAR, JANUARY 01: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rajesh Kumar Shavan on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive review of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) implementation in the district while chairing a multi department meeting.

The Chief Executive Officer Kishtwar Development Authority, ACD and Executive Engineer PWD were directed to install male and female toilets, benches, and a kiosk near the FCI Store in Kuleed under the Town Beautification initiative.

Additionally, the DC discussed the action plan for maintaining clean, hygienic and plastic-free conditions in townships and rural areas. He directed the EO Municipality, NHIDCL, GREF, and Rural Development Department to carry out the immediate desilting of drains in the town and surrounding areas, stressing the need for a modular and proactive approach while encouraging full community cooperation in rural areas.

The ACD and Municipality authorities were instructed to submit a list of both functional and non-functional toilets along with a list of Non-Functioning street lights both in the towns and rural areas.

NHIDCL was directed to inspect the working of streetlights from Hasti to Malipeth and repair any non-functional units. Furthermore, they were instructed to construct drains from Thathri to Sinthan Top to prevent water stagnation on roads, while GREF was instructed to construct drains from Kuleed to Sansari Nallah.

The DC also emphasized the aesthetic beautification of public spaces and key crossings across the district, such as Hidyal Chowk, Viewpoint Malipeth and Bindraban. The meeting decided to create Selfie points at these sites.

A committee headed by ACR and comprising GREF officials was formed to oversee removal of encroachments obstructing drainage from Kuleed Chowk to 5RR.

To enforce SBM guidelines, the DC set a target of achieving 100% whitewashing in the district. He also called for imposing fine on shops, establishments and dhabas that fail to whitewash their shutters.

NHIDCL and GREF were directed to ensure uniform drain lengths and to repair potholes after completing drain cleaning in a time bound manner.

The discussion also included operation of community toilets in the town, removal of illegal and outdated hoardings, and overall sanitation improvements.

The meeting was attended by ADC Pawan Kotwal, CEO KDA Rishi Kumar Sharma, ACR Idrees Lone, ACD Phulail Singh, EO Municipality/Deputy Registrar Cooperative Mirza Mumtaz Iqbal, BDOs, Executive Engineers of PMGSY, PWD and representatives from FSSAI, Health, GREF and NHIDCL.

POONCH, JANUARY 01: Additional Deputy Commissioner Poonch Tahir Mustafa Malik today chaired a meeting of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Committee here in the Conference Hall of the DC Office in Poonch to review relief claims under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).

The meeting was attended by senior officers from the Revenue Department and other members of the Committee.

The meeting focused on the verification of relief cases under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) in accordance with the established Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

The Committee conducted a thorough review of 78 cases related to relief and rehabilitation. Each case was meticulously discussed and scrutinized, leading to informed recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the relief process.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner underscored the critical importance of adhering to SDRF guidelines, stressing that it is essential to ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive the necessary support in a timely manner.

He called for a collaborative approach among all stakeholders to facilitate smoother operations and faster assistance for those in need.

DODA, JANUARY 01: The Motor Vehicle Department Doda, in collaboration with the Health Department on Wednesday organized a Medical/Eye Checkup Camp for drivers here at Pul Doda.

The camp was held under the direction of Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan and Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh and under the supervision of Assistant Regional Transport Officer Rajesh Gupta,

Additional Deputy Commissioner Sudarshan Kumar inaugurated the camp in presence of the ARTO, Doctors from the Medical and Ayush Departments and officials from Motor Vehicle and Health Departments.

A large number of drivers availed themselves of free medical and eye examinations as well as essential health screenings. The initiative emphasized the importance of regular health checkups for drivers, highlighting that good vision and overall well-being are crucial for road safety.

The team of medical professionals conducted comprehensive eye tests, providing immediate feedback and guidance on necessary corrective measures. Drivers were also educated about the significance of maintaining clear vision while driving, as impaired eyesight can lead to accidents and compromise public safety.

In addition to eye checkups, participants were provided with free medicines and valuable tips on general health and preventive care. The camp reinforced the message that health is a key component of responsible and safe driving practices.

SHOPIAN, DECEMBER 30: Significant progress has been achieved vis-à-vis snow clearance up to the Peer Ki Gali via Shopian side, with Mechanical Engineering Department (MED), Shopian completing the job late last night, much before the expected deadline.

Following the Deputy Commissioner’s visit to the Mughal Road yesterday instructing concerned for immediate snow clearance, strenuous efforts were made by the MED Shopian resulting in road clearance in a record time yesterday.

Subsequent to the snow clearance, Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar along with Chief Engineer, MED Kashmir, Manga Ram Kotwal and ADDC, Dr.Nasir Ahmad Lone today visited the Mughal Road axis and reviewed the snow clearance operations and assessed the road’s traffic worthiness.

The DC assessed the situation of snow accumulation, assessment of avalanche areas and subsequent clearance along the strategic road and deliberated on its re-opening for traffic.

Some vulnerable spots were thoroughly taken care of and salt sprinkled to make the spots traffic worthy.

With the snow clearance operations progressing well along Poonch side, the Mughal Road is expected to be opened for traffic soon, said Shahid Saleem on the occasion.

The DC was accompanied by ACR and other officers.

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 30: Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, today virtually inaugurated the State-of-the-Art High Court Guest House at Melongthang, Leh, UT of Ladakh, in presence of Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Justice Sindhu Sharma, Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Justice Vinod Chatterji Koul, Justice Sanjay Dhar, Justice Puneet Gupta, Justice Javed Iqbal Wani, Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary, Justice Rahul Bharti, Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Justice Rajesh Sekhri and Justice Mohd. Yousuf Wani, Judges of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. The inauguration was also graced by the presence of Dr. Pawan Dev Kotwal, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor, UT of Ladakh.

The Guest House, constructed at a cost of Rs 12.42 crore has eight suites, eight deluxe rooms and three additional rooms with centrally heated features and in-house lounge, dining room and office with facility of air condition; ensuring comfort for its occupants. A separate accommodation for staff Guest House has been built in close proximity.

The facility is dedicated for comfortable lodging and boarding of not only visiting Judges of the Supreme Court, various High Courts, Judges of High Court of J&K and Ladakh but also other judicial officers from different States visiting the UT of Ladakh.

During his inaugural address, Chief Justice, Tashi Rabstan emphasized on the integral role of robust infrastructure in the efficient functioning of the judiciary. He expressed his gratitude to Lieutenant Governor and the officers of the UT Administration for their unwavering cooperation and support in developing judicial infrastructure in both Leh and Kargil districts.

The Chief Justice highlighted that earlier there was no suitable option for visiting judges of the Supreme Court, various High Courts or even judges of our own High Court and other judicial officers for comfortable stay in the region except for the Hotels. He added that the newly constructed, State-of-the-Art High Court Guest House will now cater to the lodging and boarding requirements of judges and judicial officers, ensuring a comfortable stay during their visits.

Chief Justice lauded the dedication and swift response of the UT Administration in completing this project and expressed hope that similar enthusiasm and efficiency would be demonstrated in completing other vital infrastructure projects within stipulated timelines.

Dr. Pawan Dev Kotwal, congratulated the judiciary on the inauguration of the Guest House. He credited the regular reviews and personal intervention of the Chief Justice for the timely completion of the project. Dr. Kotwal reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing top-notch infrastructure to meet the needs of the judiciary.

On the occasion, Principal District Judge (PDJ) Leh felicitated various officers and officials of the executing agencies who showed their dedication in timely completion of this project, by presenting traditional Khataks as a token of appreciation for their commendable efforts.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Shahzad Azeem, Registrar General; AmitKumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority; Anoop Sharma, Registrar IT; Farooq Ahmad Bhat, Registrar Judicial, Srinagar; Fayaz Ahmed Qureshi, CPC e-Courts; Abdul Bari, Joint Registrar Judicial and other officers of the High Court Registry at Srinagar. Spalzes Angmo, Member Secretary, Ladakh Legal Services Authority; Manoj Parihar, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Leh; Shafi Lassu, President Bar Association Leh and other senior officers and officials were present at Leh.

Manoj Parihar, Principal District and Sessions Judge Leh, delivered the welcome address, wherein, he extended a warm welcome to the Chief Justice and Hon’ble Judges of the High Court, as well as other dignitaries present.

Tsewang Phuntsog, CJM Leh proposed the formal vote of thanks. The Proceedings of the event were conducted by Chemit Yurgyal, Secretary DLSA Kargil and Nodal Officer for Judicial Infrastructure Projects in UT Ladakh.

Subsequently, Chief Justice also inaugurated an Additional Court at the High Court Complex, Srinagar. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing judicial accessibility and expediting justice delivery for the people of the region.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Justice reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that the public has access to efficient and timely justice. He further acknowledged the efforts of all stakeholders who contributed to the successful establishment of the Additional Court.