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The discussion also included operation of community toilets in the town, removal of illegal and outdated hoardings, and overall sanitation improvements.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

Power Shutdown Notification

JAMMU, DECEMBER 26: The Chief Engineer (Distribution), JPDCL, Jammu, has announced that power supply will remain affected in the following areas on the mentioned dates and times:

1. Udhampur, Pathi, Army, Airforce, Battal Ballian, Industry, and adjoining areas

Date: December 27 and December 29

Time: 1 PM to 5 PM

2. Hatli Village, Sawla, Bikhit, Tridwan, Khanyara, Jagatpur, Maroli, and adjoining areas

Date: December 28

Time: 8 AM to 3 PM

Additionally, the Superintending Engineer (Distribution), JPDCL, O&M Circle Kathua, has informed that:

Power supply to Bhagthali Industry and adjoining areas will remain affected on December 27 from 8 AM to 2 PM.

Residents and industries in the affected areas are advised to take note and plan accordingly.

SHOPIAN, DECEMBER 26: The Forest Department Shopian Thursday launched a mega plantation drive at the Mini Secretariat Shopian, with Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar inaugurating the event.

Plantation drive has been organized under the theme ‘Aek Ped Ek Zindagi’ and ‘Ek Paed Maa ke Naam’ in which hundreds of saplings of fir, line and deodar were planted by officers of district administration and officials of forest department.

This initiative demonstrates the district administration’s commitment to creating a Green Campus at Mini Secretariat Shopian.

The drive is part of a broader effort of the Forest Department to enhance the green cover in the district and promote environmental sustainability.

ADC Shopian, Dr.Zakir Hussain Faaz, other district officers and officers of police and forest departments also participated in the drive.

ANANTNAG, DECEMBER 26: A one-day Capacity Building Programme (CBP) on the Grievance Redressal Mechanism ‘SEVOTTAM’ was successfully organized at Dak Bungalow, Khanabal.

The programme, focused on strengthening grievance redressal frameworks for better public service delivery, and was a collaborative effort of the Institute of Management, Public Administration & Rural Development (J&K IMPARD) and the Department of Public Grievances, Government of J&K, in partnership with the District Administration Anantnag.

The initiative was sponsored by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances, Government of India.

The programme aimed to build the capacity of government officials in implementing an effective grievance redressal mechanism, ensuring prompt and transparent resolution of public grievances in the region.

The training session witnessed the active participation of senior officials, including SF. Hamid, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), and various district and sectoral officers.

Azeeta Quraishi, Nodal Officer, delivered an informative briefing on the significance of addressing public grievances efficiently, emphasizing the pivotal role of administrative responsiveness in fostering citizen satisfaction. Comprehensive discussions were held on best practices, key challenges in grievance redressal, and strategies for improving grievance resolution timelines and outcomes.

Interactive sessions provided a platform for officers to share their experiences and seek solutions to operational challenges in their respective domains. Equip officials with the knowledge and tools necessary for enhancing the grievance redressal process. Strengthen the capacity of government departments to address public complaints effectively and transparently. Ensure that the mechanisms in place adhere to the highest standards of accountability and service delivery under the ‘SEVOTTAM’ framework.

The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the initiative and stressed the need for consistent efforts in streamlining grievance redressal systems across departments. He emphasized the importance of such training programmes in achieving good governance and ensuring public trust.

The programme concluded with a commitment to adopt a citizen-centric approach in grievance handling, reflecting the administration’s dedication to improving service standards and fostering accountability at all levels.

BARAMULLA, DECEMBER 26: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, today chaired a meeting with the Administrative and Police officers of the district at Dak Bunglow here to review the preparation for the upcoming Republic Day-2025 celebration across Baramulla.

During the meeting, the DC conducted a comprehensive review of the campaigns and events planned by the District Administration in preparation for the grand celebration on January 26th.

The meeting was informed that the main function of the day will be held at the Showkat Ali Sports Stadium Baramulla, where the chief guest will unfurl the National Flag followed by inspection of parade. The chair was also apprised that a complete dress rehearsal for the event would be conducted on 24th of January.

It was given out that march-past will be presented by contingents of JKP, CRPF, Fire and Emergency and other bands which would be followed by a colorful cultural programme by students.

The DC directed the officers from the concerned departments to ensure proper arrangements related to security, sanitation, seating arrangements, barricading, water supply, power supply, issuance of invitation cards and illumination of important buildings etc on the Republic Day.

Meanwhile, the DC instructed the officers to ensure the Republic Day celebrations are conducted with enthusiasm and grandeur at their respective office premises at district, sub-divisional, tehsil and block levels to foster a sense of patriotism and community participation across the region.

Furthermore, DC emphasized that this year, special attention will be given to setting up stalls at the venue, showcasing achievements and raising public awareness about the benefits of HADP, PM-Vishwakarma, and other government-sponsored schemes.

Minga Sherpa also instructed the officers to organize extensive cleanliness drives in their offices and surrounding areas, both in rural and urban regions, on January 25th in a run-up to the Republic Day celebrations.

Additionally, the DC stressed on the importance of close coordination among all departments for the seamless and successful conduct of the event, and instructed the concerned officers to designate nodal officers to supervise the preparations.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Baramulla, Zahoor Ahmad Raina; ADC Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina; Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Assistant Commissioner Development, SDM Pattan/ Uri/ Gulmarg, besides other officers from Civil Administration, Police, CRPF were present in the meeting.

BARAMULLA, DECEMBER 26: The Chairperson District Development Council (DDC) Baramulla, Safina Baig, today chaired an important meeting at Dakbanglow Baramulla to review the progress of major developmental projects in the district.

The meeting also focused on ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential services during harsh weather conditions.

During the meeting, Executive Engineer R&B Baramulla briefed the Chairperson on the Sranz Bridge project, which has been allotted at a cost of 7.92 crore. The bridge will enhance connectivity and transportation in the region.

Additionally, the development of the Bandi Payeen Ayush Hospital, allotted at 6.97 crore, was discussed. The hospital will provide essential healthcare services, particularly focusing on Ayush treatments for the local community.

Safina Baig also reviewed the successful completion of Macadamization works under the Cities and Towns initiative, which has significantly upgraded the urban road connectivity in Baramulla.

Ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services, Chairperson Baig directed the concerned officers to ensure a smooth and continuous supply of drinking water and electricity, especially during harsh weather conditions. She emphasized the importance of these services for maintaining public comfort and well-being during the winter season.

Chairperson DDC acknowledged the pivotal role of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor’s support in making these major projects possible.

“We must prioritize the uninterrupted supply of essential services like drinking water and power, especially during this challenging season. I urge the concerned officers to take all necessary actions to ensure there are no disruptions,” said Chairperson Safina Baig.