Mughal road remains closed, Srinagar-Jammu highway open for traffic

Srinagar

The historic 86-km-long Mughal road remained closed since November 6 due to accumulation of snow and slippery conditions while highway, connecting Kashmir valley with the rest of the country was through for traffic.

An official said that heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) will ply from Jammu to Srinagar only while Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) from both sides on Sunday.

He said the Mughal road, linking Shopian in south Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu region, remained closed though massive snow clearance operations had been launched from both sides of the Pir-ki-Gali.

The state government has already taken up the issue of constructing a tunnel to make it all weather road.

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Govt orders transfer of three senior officers

Srinagar

The Government has ordered transfer and postings of three senior officers and gave additional charge to another.

According to the Government order NO 119-JK (GAD) of 2019, Yasha Mudgal, Additional Resident Commissioner and ex-Officio Secretary, Resident Commissioner JK House New Delhi was transferred and posted as Managing Director, Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited, while Mohammad Aijaz, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri was transferred and posted as Managing Director, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited.

Mohammad Nazir Sheikh, Director, Panchayati Raj J&K has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Rajouri.

Meanwhile, Hirdesh Kumar, Commissioner/Secretary Power Development Department will hold the charge of Managing Director Jammu and Kashmir Power Corporation Limited in addition to his own duties till further orders. He will continue to hold the charge of Managing Director Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited.

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Winter vacation for schools in Ladakh from Dec 2

Srinagar

The UT administration of Ladakh today announced winter vacation for all government and private recognised schools of Ladakh.

According to an order issued by the School Education Department, Ladakh, winter vacation for classes up to middle in Kargil district would be observed from December 2, 2019, to February 20, 2020, while winter break for classes and schools from Class IX to Class XII in Kargil district would be observed from December 9 to February 20, 2020.

The order reads that winter vacation for all classes and schools up to Class XII in Leh district would be observed from December 9, 2019, to February 20, 2020.

The order also reads that the officials of the School Education Department, Ladakh, if any, associated with the conduct of examinations, would avail winter vacation only after the conclusion of such examinations and the officials required to undergo trainings as per schedules notified or to be notified by the administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh would attend such training programmes.

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28 OGWs arrested, 1 militant surrendered in November: Police

Srinagar

Twenty-eight over ground workers (OGWs) were arrested and one militant surrendered as six modules were busted in the past one month in Kashmir, police said on Friday.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with the Army and other security agencies, has taken various steps in to intensifying the fight against militants in the Valley, a police spokesman said.

“The coordinated efforts by the security forces have mounted tremendous pressure on militants and their OGWs, leading to the arrest of 28 over ground workers and busting of six militant modules in the past one month,” he said.

Giving details, the spokesman said the Awantipora police busted a module with the arrest of three persons involved in pasting of threat posters in the Ladoo area of the district.

Posters of proscribed outfits — Hizbul-ul-Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — were seized from their possession, he said.

Two OGWs were arrested by the Ganderbal police from the Naranag area, the spokesman said, adding arms and ammunition were also recovered from their possession.

The Sopore police busted a huge module by arresting 10 OGWs of LeT, along with incriminating material, at Chatloora Gund Malraj Crossing in Rafiabad, he said. They were involved in intimidating and threatening people, he added.

Similarly, the LeT poster module was also busted and six OGWs were arrested, the spokesman said. They were involved in arson incidents and publishing threat posters in the area, he added.

Two hand grenades were recovered from the possession of the OGWs arrested at the Bypass Crossing, the spokesman said.

In another major success, the Pulwama police busted a module of militant associates responsible for carrying out blasts in the area by arresting four OGWs, he said. The arrested persons were involved in an IED blast in the Arihal area of Pulwama, the spokesman added.

On November 25, 2019, the Baramulla police foiled an attempt to target the recruitment process of Special Police Officers (SPOs), he said, adding four OGWs were arrested along with grenades.

The arrested persons had procured the grenades with the motive to attack the recruitment rally in the district. By the arrest of these OGWs, a big militant incident was foiled, the spokesman said.

The Kulgam police and other forces in a joint operation arrested three OGWs who were involved in motivating the youth to join militancy, he said.

One OGW, identified as Bashir Ganie, a notorious law and order instigator wanted by the Srinagar police for his involvement in organising protests in the Anchar area of Srinagar, was arrested, the spokesman said. Ganie was the kingpin and wanted in various criminal and militancy cases. His arrest was a great success for police, he said.

One militant surrendered before the Pulwama police during this time, the spokesman said. An OGW of the JeM outfit was arrested from Srinagar,said the spokesman.

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MHA to hold meeting over JK situation next week

Srinagar

Ministry of Home Affairs is likely to hold a top meeting next week over the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said Union Home Minister Amit Shah will preside over the meeting in which National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and heads of various security agencies are also likely to participate.

“Amit Shah will review the current scenario in Kashmir,” sources said.

Sources said meeting will also discuss the suspension of internet services in Kashmir.

“It will be decided in the meeting whether to restore broadband internet services in Kashmir,” sources said. The meeting will also decide over the releasing of political leaders.

Over 30 leaders of National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party, Peoples Conference and Jammu Kashmir Peoples Movement are under detention including three former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti.

Sources said Director General of Police JK, Dilbagh Singh will apprise the meeting about the security scenario in new union territory. “Union Home Minister has sought detailed report of anti-militancy operations in the valley,” sources said.

Internet services are suspended in Kashmir since August 5 when Centre abrogated the Article 370 and bifurcated the state into two union territories.

Sources said officials will also apprise Amit Shah about the losses suffered due to November 7 snowfall.

“Jammu and Kashmir government wants that November 7 be declared natural calamity,” sources said.

At least seven people lost their lives by heavy snowfall which caused heavy damage to public and private property across Kashmir.

Sources said that Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has directed also district development commissioners to ensure completion of the assessment of loss occurred to orchards due to snowfall.

They have been asked to submit report to divisional commissioner office Kashmir.

Valley-based apple growers have estimated 90 percent loss to orchards by snowfall.

According to the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers cum Dealers Union (KVFG), an umbrella body of all fruit associations of Kashmir, 80 percent of fruit plants of all orchards of the Valley were uprooted after the untimely heavy snowfall.

“The losses of fruit orchards are to the extent of about 90 percent. It would take at least 15 years for the growers to replace a fresh fruit plant with the broken ones,” KVFG President Bashir Ahmad Basheer said. (KNS)

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NC, PDP, Congress looted J&K for 70-years: Ashok Koul

Srinagar

Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) held workers meeting in south Kashmir’s Qazigund area on Saturday which was presided over by J&K Union Territory (UT) General Secretary Ashok Koul.

Workers convention of BJP at townhall Qazigund. KL Image by Shah Hilal

This was the first meeting held by the BJP in Kashmir after August 5 when the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 was scrapped and most of the mainstream political leaders in the Valley were detained.

Speaking on the occasion, Koul blamed National Conference (NC), PDP and Congress for promoting corruption in J&K over the last seven decades. “These parties exploited common people and did nothing for the development and progress of J&K. People of J&K voted for these parties all these years, but in return they indulged in loot and gave the administration free hand to indulge into corrupt practices,” he alleged.

In a strong-worded warning to the corrupt politicians, the BJP leader said, “Those leaders who will be found involved in corruption will have to face the law. Time has come for them to give an account of their misdeeds.”

He appealed the people to give a chance to the BJP now “as NC, PDP and Congress always exploited them.”

“Give us a chance to serve you and you will see the difference. The BJP will take J&K to new heights of development. The shops of those who blame BJP of being communal will get shut soon as people have fully rejected them. It is the responsibility of people of J&K to reject the parties and leaders who are corrupt and exploit people and give BJP a chance,” he told people.

On the possibility of holding Assembly polls in J&K, Koul said, “Lt Governor recently said that Assembly polls will be held soon and we have to believe him.”

Vice-president of J&K BJP Sofi Yosuf while addressing the meeting said the saffron party has emerged as a strong force in the UT “as people in large number are joining it.” On the occasion, several panches, sarpanches and BDC chairman Qazigund Sajad Ahmad joined the BJP. (KNS)

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Ensure sale of standard substances in market: Secretary Horticulture

Srinagar

Secretary Horticulture, Manzoor Ahmad Lone on Saturday stressed on the officials to intervene in making available only quality substances in the market for the use by fruit growers. He was speaking at a meeting to discuss the availability of tree spray oils for the upcoming horticulture season.

Ensure sale of standard substances in market: Secretary Horticulture directs department

The Secretary asked the officials that only those Horticulture Mineral Oils (HMOs) should be allowed to be sold in the market that complies with the standards set by the Central Insecticide Board (CIB). He said that a committee of experts would be constituted soon to look into the issues of certification and compliance of rules by the manufacturers of these oils.

The Secretary directed the officials to adhere to the existing practice of asking for Residual Analysis Reports and Bio-efficiency tests for allowing companies to do the business of these petroleum-derived oils. He said that a framework would be made after the committee furnishes its recommendations and the government takes a decision regarding it.

Lone also advised the officials to take into consideration the impact of these chemicals on humans, animals and environment while making the recommendations. He directed the enforcement officials of the department to ensure uniformity of rates in the market without compromising on the quality of any of the product.

He said that since horticulture is the backbone of our economy so the quality control mechanism of the department needs to be strengthened further to check the entry of spurious chemicals in the market. He asked for channelling all the chemicals entering the market through any Public Sector Undertaking for its proper monitoring and better management. He asked for establishing laboratories at district level for quick and effective monitoring of fertilizers and pesticides.

The Secretary was informed that last year around 12 petroleum companies were allowed to do the business of these tree spray oils after taking the Residual Reports and Bio-efficiency tests from the agriculture universities .

Those who participated in the meeting included Director Agriculture Kashmir, Aijaz Altaf Andrabi; Director Horticulture Kashmir, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat; Director Horticulture Jammu, R.K Katoch; Director Research, SKUAST Kashmir, Mohammad Saleem Mir; MD JK Horticulture Produce & Marketing Corporation, J&K, Shafat Sultan; Director Law Enforcement, J&K, Abdul Rahim Samoon and other senior level officers of these departments. Representatives of various oil companies including IOCL, BPCL and HPCL were also present in the meeting.

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J&K bags 3rd position in north zone School Band competition

Srinagar

J&K Team represented by Sainik School Nagrota bagged the third position with Cash Prize of Rs. 5000 in North Zone School Band Competition held at Shimla on Friday.

J&K bags 3rd position in north zone School Band competition

In this competition, first Prize was bagged by Sainik School Kapurthala, Punjab and second was secured by the Holy Public School, Faridabad Haryana.

Sarita Chauhan, Commissioner/Secretary School Education, congratulated the team of J&K and appreciated the efforts of Samagra Shiksha which provided every possible support to the band. She stressed that such competitions bring out the best out of students which ultimately hones their talents and skills. She further shared that School Education is in the process of establishing a district level band for school children.

Dr Arun Manhas, State Project Director Samagra Shiksha also congratulated the team and their mentors. He lauded the efforts made by team of  Sainik School Nagrota and team of Samagra Shiksha for efforts which resulted in success. He also thanked Commissioner Secretary School Education, Sarita Chauhan for providing guidance, support and mentorship during the entire process of school level Band Competition.

The programme was organized by Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India through its Flagship programme- Samagra Shiksha and Himachal Pradesh as the coordinating State for the competition.

Five states/UTs- Punjab, Haryana, J&K, Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh participated in the competition wherein all the teams strived for better performance in a tough competition.

Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh,  Jai Ram Thakur; Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Suresh Bardhwaj; K. Girja Shankar, Senior Consultant MHRD, GoI were present at the event.

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Advisor Sharma to hear public grievances at Srinagar on Dec 3

Srinagar

Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, K K Sharma will convene a public hearing at Grievance Cell, Church Lane, Sonwar, Srinagar on December 03 (Tuesday) from 10 am to 12 noon.

The public deputations and individuals, who want to bring their grievances and demands into the notice of the government, can meet the Advisor at the venue.

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Advisor Khan compliments private educational institutions for raising level of quality education in J&K

Srinagar

Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Farooq Khan on Saturday complimented the private educational institutions for imparting quality education in Jammu and Kashmir. The Advisor was addressing students and staff at the 21st annual Day of KC Public School here at Jammu University’s General Zorawar Singh Auditorium.

Advisor Khan compliments private educational institutions for raising level of quality education in J&K

Advisor Khan complimented the school management for its best efforts in enabling the holistic department of children and appreciated the talent of children exhibited through their performances in a cultural programme presented during the function.

The Guests of Honour at the function were former Home Secretary, Government of India, Anil Goswami; former Home Secretary, Govt of J&K, Parvez Dewan; ex ADGP of J&K Police, S S Wazir and Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Prof. Manoj K Dhar. The function was attended by the school children and parents among others.

The principal of the school, Amarendra Mishra delivered a welcome address followed by the presentation of the annual report.

On the occasion, Advisor Khan also presented awards to meritorious students and mementoes to KCPS alumni who have carved out distinguished careers in different fields such as administration, medicine, engineering, commerce and industry etc.

Chairman KCPS, Raju Chowdhary also spoke on the occasion and outlined the school’s mission of achieving excellence in education.

The concluding item of the function was a dance-drama ‘Andha Yug’ in Hindi presented by the students of senior school. The play written by Dharamvir Bharati in 1954 depicted the predicament of parents of Kauravas on the 18th day of the Mahabharat War and brings out the degradation of human values in the context of 1947 Partition of India.

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Two army men killed in avalanche at Siachen Glacier in Leh

Srinagar

Two army men were killed on Saturday when an avalanche hit them in Siachen Glacier in Leh, said the spokesman.

Srinagar based army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said that the two soldiers were part of an army patrol that was operating at an altitude of approximately 18,000 feet in Southern Siachen Glacier.

The army patrol was hit by an avalanche during the early morning today, he said.

The spokesman said that an Avalanche Rescue Team (ART) that was following the patrol immediately rushed to the spot. It managed to locate and pull out all members of the patrol.

Simultaneously, Army helicopters were pressed into service to evacuate the avalanche victims, he said.

However, despite best efforts by Army’s medical team, two soldiers succumbed in the avalanche, he added.

It was for the second time that an avalanche occurred in Siachen in the past two weeks.

Earlier on November 18, four army men and two civilian porters were killed in an avalanche in the northern part of the Siachen Glacier.

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SPO recruitment drive gets huge response in J&K, over 77,000 apply

Srinagar

A recruitment drive by the Jammu and Kashmir police to fill about 5,200 posts of Special Police Officers (SPOs) has evoked a huge response as over 77,000 candidates applied, a police spokesman said in a statement.

Candidates wait to give physical test for the post of Special Police Officers. Pic : Police

While 51,047 youths applied for the SPO recruitment in the Jammu region, the number stands at 26,594 in different districts of Kashmir valley, the spokesman said.

“The recruitment drive has evoked a tremendous response from aspiring youths. A total of 77,641 candidates applied for these (5,199) posts,” he said, adding the physical tests of these candidates have been conducted across the valley and the recruitment process is underway.

In Kashmir zone, 26,594 youths — 15,264 from north Kashmir districts of Kupwara, Baramulla and Bandipora for 873 posts, 6,013 from central Kashmir districts of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal for 813 posts and 5,317 from south Kashmir districts of Pulwama, Kulgam, Shopian and Anantnag for 1,243 posts — have applied, said the spokesman.

The spokesman said 51,047 youths have applied in Jammu zone which included 9,752 applicants for 224 posts in Jammu district and 4,406 youth for 84 posts in Samba district.

In Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban range, 11,909 applications were received against 298 vacant posts, and in Udhampur-Reasi range against 143 vacant posts, 9,573 applications were received, he said.

He said Rajouri-Poonch range also received tremendous response with 15,407 youth trying their luck for 324 SPO posts.

Most of the districts have completed the recruitment process and the sanction for enrolment is given by police headquarters to the district Superintendents of Police, the spokesman said, adding the remaining process would be completed very soon for which directions have been conveyed from the police headquarters.

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Advisor Sharma meets union Secretary Higher Education

Srinagar

Advisor to Lieutenant Governor K.K.Sharma on Saturday met  R Subrahmanyam, Secretary Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource and Development at his Office and discussed various issues regarding implementation of centrally sponsored (CS) educational schemes–NISHTHA,  ARPIT and RUSA in Jammu & Kashmir.

Advisor Sharma meets union Secretary Higher Education

During the meeting, the Advisor Sharma highlighted pressing issues relating to the higher education sector in the Union Territory. He requested to consider the needs for the J&K Higher Education regarding the infrastructure Grant for 50 new colleges, Research Grant to all the five Universities for establishing Centre of excellence and employability.

The Advisor raised the issue regarding the reviewing for permission by UGC for Academic Credit Transfer between Universities for a student from Jammu and Kashmir Exchange Programme.

The Union Secretary noted that Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education should further upgrade educational and research ambience, knowledge and skill development expertise in Colleges under RUSA-2. He assured full support and mentioned that the funds required under the special package are under consideration and the Funds under RUSA are likely to be released soon for J&K.

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DDC Ganderbal takes stock of road clearance at Sonamarg

Srinagar

District Development Commissioner, Ganderbal Hashmat Ali Khan Saturday visited Sonamarg to take the first hand appraisal of road clearance which was blocked due to recent snowfall.

DDC Ganderbal takes stock of road clearance at Sonamarg

During the visit DDC reviewed the progress on the snow clearance work and interacted with the officials of Beacon who are maintaining the road.  He directed the concerned to speed up the road clearance work so that the road is cleared and thrown open for traffic at the earliest.

The officials informed him that the road upto Sonamarg will be thrown open by Saturday evening. He was also informed that the snow clearance work is also apace on both sides of the Zojilla which will be thrown open for traffic soon.

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Govt committed to applying all central laws to J&K, Ladakh: Dr Jitendra Singh

Srinagar

The Union Minister of State (PP), Dr Jitendra Singh said that all Central laws applicable to other parts of the country will now be applicable to the newly created UTs of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Ladakh. He said that there are about 854 such laws which are citizen-friendly and will benefit the common man of J&K and Ladakh, who were previously deprived of it.

Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates conference on ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’ with focus on Jal Shakti and Disaster Management in Jammu

The Minister said that now everybody should understand that Article 370 is gone and gone forever; and not in pieces, but as a whole and it is the determined resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Home Minister  Amit Shah. He appealed to the people of the UTs not to pay heed to the fringe elements with vested interests and to cooperate with the Government in providing welfare to common masses. He was addressing at the inauguration of two-day Conference on ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’ with focus on ‘Jal Shakti’ and ‘Disaster Management’ on November 30-December 1, 2019 at Jammu today. The conference is being organized by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) in collaboration with Governments of Tamil Nadu and Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

During the conference, Dr Jitendra Singh also released the Special issue of e-Magazine, ‘Minimum Government Maximum Governance’ based on Successful Innovations in Governance in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The innovations included – Back to Village: A people’s programme; Panchayat Polls: IEC campaign for Panchayat elections Amendments in J&K Panchayati Raj Act, 1989; Project KREDA Kargil, Ladakh; Project Tsangda Leh: A waste management programme; Power to all: Total household electrification in J&K state; Project Jalshakti: Reasi; Constituency Development Fund Management Information system, Budgam; Project Saubhagya Plus, Ganderbal; Enabling girl child education, Bandipora; Rejuvenating Lost ponds, Kathua and Enrolment drive in schools and infrastructure improvement with community support in border areas, Baramulla.

He also launched the integration of CPGRAMS Public Grievance Portal of Government of India and Awaaz-e-Awam Portal of Jammu & Kashmir.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that this is the second big conference being organized by DARPG in a short span of time, the first being organized on November 15-16, on replication of good governance practices. He expressed happiness that the first conference had the participation of about 450 delegates from 19 states and 4 UTs and the second conference has participation from about 350 delegates. He said that the development model of the North Eastern Region will be implemented in these UTs also. He also mentioned about the upcoming Panchayat Adalat and Bamboo workshop. Speaking about the theme of the conference ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’, the Minister said that this is one of the flagship initiatives at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is going to have good outcomes for both the UTs. This conference will provide an occasion to replicate and learn from good initiatives of Tamil Nadu in these UTs, especially the river management.

Speaking about the disaster management, the Minister said that earlier the response to disasters used to be reactive, but under the leadership of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, it has now become proactive. He added that the focus is now on preventive measures and minimizing the damage. Now, we have a foolproof technology available in India to mitigate the crisis and we can now forecast disasters very early and inform the administration in real-time, he further said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that PM’s focus has been on maximum use of technology and real-time monitoring. The Minister said that Jal Shakti Abhiyaan is a flagship programme of the Government and a separate Ministry has been created for it. He also spoke about the issues related to Shahpur Kandi and the Ujh River projects in J&K. Now, the work on previously halted projects will be expedited, he said. He further said that this unique bonding of Northern-most UTs and Southern-most state will carry a message of good governance from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

The Minister said that the Government is committed to reach the last man in the queue in J& K and Ladakh. He added that these UTs have been created with a lot of thought and deliberations. All the Central laws including Right to Education, Right to Minimum Wages, Dowry Prohibition Act and acts related to corruption, vigilance & welfare of parents will now be implemented in these UTs. He added that the Government has taken this important responsibility and will carry it.

During the conference, the Minister for Revenue & Disaster Management, Government of Tamil Nadu,  R B Udhayakumar, expressed his happiness to participate in the regional conference on ‘Ek Bharat-Shresht Bharat’ with focus on Jal Shakti and Disaster management’ in Jammu.

He said that this collaboration will promote the exchange of technical expertise and best practices in the areas of optimal use of water resources in domestic consumption, agriculture and other usages. Sharing the advances and experiences on disaster management would help in minimizing the magnitude of its adverse impacts by our meticulous preparedness, swift response, quick rehabilitation and recovery, he added. He further said that each disaster is different in its own nature and teaches us a lesson to prepare ourselves better. He said that experiences on using water efficiently will definitely be useful for the participants.

The Lt. Gov of J&K, G C Murmu said that it is a proud privilege and great opportunity to share the best practices of different states. He emphasized upon the importance of water conservation and the sustainability of natural resources. He said that the agricultural scientists should study the cropping pattern to suit the monsoon and other climatic conditions. There are certain structural things to be done to save water and mitigate the crisis of water shortage, he added. It is not only about the availability of water, but also about the quality of water, he stressed.

Murmu further said that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan has proved how sanitation can improve the lives of people. Elaborating on the role of citizens during natural and manmade disasters, he said that the first respondents to any disaster are citizens and their empowerment is the absolute requirement. He emphasized upon the awareness among citizens through early warning and SMS service, among others.

The Chief Secretary of J&K, B V R Subrahmanyam complimented DARPG for organizing this conference. He said that the themes of the conference are appropriate for J&K. He further said that no region in the country is as prone to natural disasters as J&K. He quotes incidents of earthquake of 2005 and floods of 2014 which is due to the unique topography here, he added. He further said that disaster management includes prevention as well as mitigation. We should learn from the state of Tamil Nadu to build up capacities, he stressed.

He emphasized that water should be taken to every doorstep and by June 2021, the entire state should have a pipe water supply. Tamil Nadu is one of the best users of water and managing its water resources, he said. He also mentioned about the Devika project that has the potential to become a tourist destination in J&K.

Earlier, delivering his welcome address, the Additional Secretary, DARPG, V Srinivas said that DARPG has taken various initiatives including visit of DARPG delegation to J&K in September, after which the collaboration with J&K Government has gained momentum. He added that DARPG’s conference on 15th-16th November had adopted ‘Sushasan Sankalp: Jammu Resolution’ and two of its points are being implemented today. He added that ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’ has brought together partner state of Tamil Nadu and UTs of J&K and Ladakh.

He further said that ‘Sahyog Sankalp’ will be adopted in the valedictory session. The objective of this conference is national integration, Srinivas said.

The Conference is being attended by about 350 delegates from State Government – District Collectors/District SPs and representatives of Civil Society/Engineering Departments/Food & Civil Supplies Department, among others.

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Steps taken to restore pristine glory of Wular, Hokersar, Chandhar water bodies

Srinagar

In pursuance to the order passed by National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding the preservation of Wular Lake, Hokersar and Kreentchoo-Chandhar wetlands, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Baseer Ahmad Khan on Saturday chaired a meeting to review conservation and preservation measures for water bodies.

Div Com reviews conservation, preservation measures of Wular, Hokersar, Chandhar water bodies

The Divisional Commissioner sought action taken a report from the concerned officers in pursuance of NGT directions.

It was informed that all the directions with respect to demarcation and mapping of the water bodies have been complied with and work on fixing of boundary pillars has been concluded in Wular Lake and is under progress in Hokersar wetland. Further, it was stated that no solid waste dumping is taking place in and around these water bodies.

The Divisional Commissioner directed concerned Deputy Commissioners, WUCMA and Wildlife officers to ensure that no encroachments are allowed along the peripheries of these water bodies besides installing sign boards to stop littering in and around the lake and wetlands. He directed that the violators should be dealt strictly under law.

He exhorted upon the officers to work in synergy so that tangible results are achieved for the preservation and conservation of the Wular Lake, Hokersar and Kreentchoo-Chandhara wetlands.

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr Shahid Iqbal, Additional Commissioner Kashmir, Regional Wildlife Warden, Officers of Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), State Pollution Control Board and other concerned officials were present in the meeting.

The Deputy Commissioners of Bandipora, Budgam and Pulwama participated in the meeting through video conferencing.

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Commissioner SMC visits Dastgeer Sahib (RA) shrine

Srinagar

Commissioner SMC Khurshid Ahmad Sanai on Saturday visited the Peer Dastgeer Sahib (RA) Shrine at Khanyar to take stock of Sanitation at the Shrine.

He was accompanied by Joint Commissioner (Works), SMC and other senior Officers.

The Commissioner stressed the field staff to ensure proper sanitation around the Shrine during Urus days.

Later, the Commissioner convened a Revenue Committee meeting for settlement of revenue issues of the Corporation at S.K. Park, Srinagar.

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Attention students of GDC Beerwah

Srinagar

According to the Principal Government Degree College Beerwah the University of Kashmir has decided to have a 2+2 credit scheme for all skill courses of 3rd semester of 2018 batch.

The students are informed that the examination of two credits based on practical, assignment, project and internal assessment will be conducted by the college in the first week of December.

The students are asked to contact their respective departments for further details.

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Power shutdown in Kashmir parts

Srinagar

According to the Chief Engineer, JKTPCL, Srinagar to undertake the permanent restoration of the damaged towers of 132 kV Pattan-Zainakote Transmission line, the power supply to the areas being fed from 132/33 KV Grid Station Pattan will remain affected from 2nd December for a period of six days.

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All J&K Transport Welfare Association calls on Lt Governor

Srinagar

A joint deputation of All J&K Transport Welfare Association, J&K and Kashmir Transporters Welfare Association called on Lieutenant Governor, Girish Chandra Murmu at the Raj Bhavan here today.

All J&K Transport Welfare Association calls on Lt Governor

The deputation led by S. TS Wazir, Chairman, All J&K Transport Welfare Association, J&K put forth several issues and demands related to the transport sector in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The deputation raised several issues pertaining to Budgetary Support for replacement of old Buses/ Mini Buses, penalty on renewal of transport companies licenses, reduction of one-time tax on all commercial/ public service vehicles and allotment of parking places for mini/medium buses and auto-rickshaws.

The Lt. Governor while interacting with the deputation assured that the genuine issues projected by them would be taken up for examination and their early redressal.

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Early Snowfall Increases Patient Rush At CD Hospital

by Badar Bashir

Srinagar

The early November snowfall has doubled the footfall of patients at the lone tertiary care chest diseases (CD) hospital in Srinagar. The hospital record shows the patient flow has increased from 250 patients (before snowfall) to 350 patients following the week after a snowfall and then to 500 patients a day in the subsequent weeks.

The medical superintendent of CD hospital said the growing number of patients always becomes a challenge as sometimes, the number reaches 1300 patients a day.

In 2018, MS of the hospital said the highest number of patients visiting the hospital reached 1300 a day which is 45 percent more than the average of the winter season. “The status quo seems congruent to last year when on the first week of November, snowfall leads to the sudden growth of patients visit. The increasing quantity of patients is expediting, just in three weeks the numbers have doubled and may cross 1300 patients a day,” he said.

With the recent snowfall, a consultant, wishing anonymity said, the incidence of asthma attacks have increased more. “Patients who were previously in remission of asthma during the preceding months suddenly started inflowing with severe acute asthma attacks, a severe respiratory emergency.”

He also said they have received a number of carbon monoxide poisoning cases, the patients who were exposed to the smoke of charcoal bukharis but fail to create proper ventilation. In severe cases, this can lead to the death of the patients as well.

Meanwhile, the hospital records maintain that the ratio of male patients visiting this hospital is more than female patients. According to an official, 30 percent male patients have diseases caused by smoking.

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Armies of India,Pak exchange fire along LoC in Poonch

Srinagar

The armies of India and Pakistan on Saturday exchanged fire along the Line of Control in Shahpur and Kirni sectors of Poonch district of Jammu division.

“At about 3:30 pm, Pakistani troops resorted to small arms firing along the LoC in Shahpur and Kirni sectors of Poonch,” reports quoting army spokesman said.

“Our men also retaliated. No loss of life or damage to property has been reported from the area,” he said.

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AIIMS Kashmir to be completed in Jan 2025, Jammu Jan 2023

Srinagar

The Central Government today announced that All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu and AIIMS Kashmir will be completed in January 2023 and January 2025 respectively. It said they have so far released about Rs 92 crore for the two prestigious projects.

This information was given in the Lok Sabha today by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Choubey in reply to a written question.

The Government reply said the Cabinet had approved the construction of AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Kashmir on January 10, 2019.

The approved cost of AIIMS Jammu was Rs 1661 crore while for AIIMS Kashmir, it was Rs 1828 crore. So far the Government has released Rs 48.33 crore for AIIMS Jammu and Rs 42.51 crore for AIIMS Kashmir.

The Government has approved the timeline of January 2023 for the construction of AIIMS Jammu and January 2025 for AIIMS Kashmir.

It said the pre-investment activities were in progress for the AIIMS Jammu and Design Consultant has also been appointed. The Master Plan has been finalized while financial bids were received for the tender floated by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).

As far as the AIIMS Kashmir was concerned, the Government reply said there also pre-investment activities were in progress with Master Plan and Design Consultant finalized. The NIT is being prepared by the CPWD, it added.

AIIMS Jammu is being established at Vijaypur in Samba district while in Kashmir it was being constructed at South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.

“All India Institutes of Medical Sciences are being set up in various parts of the country in a phased manner as per budget announcements keeping in view gaps in tertiary healthcare infrastructures in different regions of the country and availability of funds,” said the Government reply.

Apart from 22 new AIIMS which have been announced/sanctioned, proposals for setting up AIIMS-like hospitals have also been received from six more States, it said, adding that the AIIMS are being set up under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).

It said six AIIMS were now functional at Raipur, Patna, Jodhpur, Bhopal, Rishikesh and Bhubaneswar.

“Guiding principle for establishing additional All India Institutes of Medical Sciences like institutions/hospitals in the country is the Presidential address to the Parliament dated 9th June 2014 wherein it was inter-alia announced that “to address the shortfall of healthcare professionals, health education and training will be transformed and AIIMS like institutes will be established in every State in a phased manner,” the Government said.

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Kashmiri students won’t be harassed over fees, attendance: Punjab CM

Srinagar

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday assured Kashmiri students that private universities in the state would not be allowed to harass them for a delay in payment of fees or attendance shortage resulting from the recent developments in the Valley, ANI reported.

“Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder has assured Kashmiri students that private universities in the state would not be allowed to harass them for the delay in payment of fees or attendance shortage resulting from the clampdown in the Valley,” Chief Minister’s Office said in a statement, according to ANI.

The Chief Minister has made it clear that Kashmiri students will not lose a year on this account.

The assurance came in response to a tweet by Kashmiri student Nasir Khuehami, who wrote: “Bizarre rather shocking. Pay fine or miss exams, college authorities tell Kashmiri students. Colleges from Punjab, Utrakhand, Chandigarh are asking Kashmiri students to pay an unnecessary fine for not submitting fee on time and falling short of attendance, due to clampdown.”

On August 5, the Centre repealed Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Following which, the state was bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir with a legislature, and Ladakh without a legislature.The two Union Territories came into existence on October 31, ANI reported.

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4 of a family killed, 3 injured in LPG cylinder blast in Ramban

Srinagar

A woman along with her three daughters was killed and three others received serious burn injuries after a gas cylinder caught fire in Maitra area of Ramban late evening on Friday.

Reports said that a LPG cylinder kept inside a house behind DC Office in Maitra area caught fire and later blasted.

An official said that on getting information, police and fire and Emergency services teams rushed to the spot and started rescue operation with the help of locals, but till then the house was damaged and four persons had lost their lives while three others sustained grievous injuries.

He said that the injured persons were rushed to District Hospital Ramban, where from they were referred to GMC Jammu in a critical condition.

The deceased were identified as Darshana Devi, wife of Bishan Dass, a resident of Tangar, Ghandhari at present Maitra and her 3 children.

The injured has been identified as Pritam Singh, a resident of Balihote at present Maitra, district Ramban. The identity of two injured children was not ascertained when the last reports were compiled.

A case under relevant Sections has been registered at Ramban Police Station and investigation started, said an official.

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DIPR bids adieu to BD Sharma on superannuation

Jammu

Directorate of Information and Public Relations today accorded an affectionate adieu to Assistant Director (Information) Baghwan Das Sharma on his superannuation.

DIPR bids adieu to BD Sharma on superannuation

On the occasion, officers and officials of DIPR appreciated Sharma for his dedication and honesty during his four-decade service career and congratulated him on his superannuation.

Speaking on the occasion, Director Information and Public Relations, Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar, hailed Sharma’s role in DIPR and congratulated him on his retirement. She extended her best wishes to Sharma for post-retirement life and opined that post-retirement life could be dedicated for the betterment of society

Speaking on the occasion, Sharma thanked all his colleagues for their support and cooperation during his tenure in the department.

Dr Sehrish also presented a shawl to Sharma as a token of appreciation on behalf of employees of the Information Department.

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Back to Village’ a great success, can be replicated as model in rest of India: Advisor Khan

Srinagar

Terming ‘Back to Village’ programme as ‘Mission for Development’, Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Farooq Khan today said that the flagship programme is already a grand success and could be replicated as a model for whole India.

The Advisor made these remarks during his visit to Kalyanpur Panchayat in Marh block of Jammu District as part of Back to Village-2 programme.

Addressing a gathering of locals, the Advisor reiterated that the Country’s prosperity is impossible without the progress in villages. The Advisor said that he has not come to inaugurate any project or new scheme but to encourage the people to participate in Back to Village-2 programme as it is already a grand success and could be replicated as model in rest of the country.

While calling the flagship ‘Back to Village’ programme as an innovative thought, Advisor Khan said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched several schemes for the people of country which are mainly aimed at uplifting the rural economy and taking rural India to the path of progress and prosperity.

Addressing a large gathering of Sarpanchs, Panchs, officers and villagers, the Advisor said that the Panchayats have been empowered and more funds are given to these institutions for holistic development in villages.

Terming the Marh-Jhiri area as ‘vegetable basket of Jammu’, he asked concerned departments to make the people of the block aware about the organic farming which could increase local farmers’ income manifold.

He also said that the presence of Baba Jitto Shrine in the area can be a game-changer for religious tourism by developing adequate tourism infrastructure and providing quality facilities to pilgrims.

The Advisor also announced an indoor stadium for the village to tap the talent of local youth in sports.

Later, the Advisor also laid the foundation stone for Community Sanitary Unit at Jhiri which is being constructed by the Department of Rural Development. The facility would come up at an estimated cost of Rs 22.5 lakh under the scheme of the model village.

Earlier, the Advisor inaugurated sports event featuring Kabaddi, Tug-of-War and Volleyball. Later, Advisor Khan distributed trophies among winner and runner-up teams in the event.

On the occasion, Advisor Khan also listened to the grievances and demands of local villagers and Panchayat members who apprised him of several local issues. The Advisor assured them that all their genuine demands and issues would be looked into by the government and redressed at the earliest.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Higher Education, Talat Parvez Rohella, the visiting officer for the Panchayat, said that now a strong system has been put in place for Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) where more powers have been devolved to them so that people can themselves make plans of development for their villages.

Among others present were Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Tahir Firdous, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Marh, Tariq Hussain Naik, Block Development Officer Marh, Amit Kumar, Chairman Block Development Council Marh, Sarpanch Kalyanpur, Mulk Raj Sharma.

A cultural show featuring folk, Dogri and Pahari songs and Nukkad on B2V, Swachh Bharat Mission, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and other Government Schemes was presented by the artists of Directorate of Information and Public Relations’ Cultural Wing Jammu.

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Govt issues public hearing schedule for Advisors

Srinagar

The Government on Friday issued a schedule of hearing of Public Grievances by the Advisors to Lieutenant Governor.

An order issued here said the Advisors to the Lieutenant Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall hear public grievances in Jammu and Srinagar.

Advisor KK Sharma will listen to people’s grievances on Monday and Tuesday from 10 am to 12 noon in Srinagar at Grievance Cell, Church Lane, Sonwar.

Similarly, Advisor Farooq Khan will hear public grievances on Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 12 noon at Grievance Cell, Church Lane, Sonwar.

Advisor Sharma will hear public grievances on Thursday and Friday in Jammu from 10 am to 12 noon at Banquet Hall, Canal Road.

Similarly, Advisor Khan will listen to people’s grievances on Monday and Tuesday in Jammu from 10 am to 12 noon at Banquet Hall, Canal Road.

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Pulwama milk production leader, time to replicate success stories in other areas: Dr Samoon

Srinagar

While complimenting farmers of Pulwama for being leader in milk production in Kashmir valley, Principal Secretary Animal, Sheep husbandry and fisheries Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon stressed on coordinated efforts to replicate success stories of area in other districts has more potential to enhance the milk and poultry  production in the valley and   Govt is taking various steps to improve the quality and quantity of livestock in the district .

He said this after inaugurating the FMDCP &NLM Programme at Kakapora .

Dr Samoon said that with the launch of these initiatives, the livestock population in the district will be free from different diseases, thus boosting the income of the farmers associated with the sector. He also said that govt has launched various schemes to boost the economy of farmers which include setting up poultry units, dairy and sheep farms with attractive incentives.

Dr Samoon reiterated that Government is committed to make livestock sector one of the promising investment sectors in the state.

He directed concerned officials to create awareness among the young unemployed youth for setting up income generating units of livestock.

Later, he distributed poultry birds under NLM among 40 beneficiaries of the area.

Director Animal Husbandry Kashmir  Dr Purnima Mittal, Joint Direct Poultry, Joint Director Frozen Semen, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, DIO and a large number of people were present on the occasion.

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‘Green J&K’ drive reaches SKIMS Medical college

Srinagar

The ceremonial winter plantation drive organized by the J&K Forest Department in collaboration with SKIMS was held today at SKIMS Medical College campus Bemina.

On the occasion saplings of Deodar were planted in the Campus.

Prof. Reyaz Ahmad Untoo, Principal SKIMS Medical College, Bemina along with senior faculty members of SKIMS Medical College, Bemina participated in the event.  Nazir Be Nazir, Chairman National Society for Protection of Water Resources, Wetlands and Forests was also present.

Dr Mohit Geera, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests highlighted the role of various institutions in promoting and encouraging plantation in their premises.

On the occasion, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir S.F.A Gillani briefed the invitees about the objective of the “Green J&K Drive” initiative and highlighted the major achievements of the Department.

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Director JKEDI reviews progress of different schemes

Srinagar

Director Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI), Tufail Matto on Friday chaired a review meeting at the institute’s Pampore campus.

Director JKEDI reviews progress of different schemes

During the review meeting, the progress made under different self-employment and entrepreneurship development schemes being implemented by the institute and the related issues were discussed threadbare.

The meeting was attended by all District Nodal Officers of JKEDI for Kashmir division and in-charge officers of the concerned sections.

During the meeting, the Director JKEDI exhorted upon all the District Nodal Officers to double their efforts in reaching out to the educated youth and encourage them to take up entrepreneurship as their career.

The meeting decided that the institute shall soon start training programs under Himayat Self Employment Scheme (HSES) and Youth Startup Loan Scheme (YSLS) to help more educated unemployed youth to establish their own business ventures.

The Director also took a review of the recovery and repayment process under different lending schemes being implemented by the institute.

He urged the concerned officers to reach out to the beneficiaries who have availed soft loans from JKEDI under different schemes and stay connected with them for updating of their contact details.

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No Friday congregational prayers at Jamia Masjid for 17th week

Srinagar

The historic Jamia Masjid in old city Srinagar remained out of bounds for the devotees for the 17th consecutive Friday as no congregational prayers were offered in the Masjid.

Eye-witnesses told news agency KNS that though no restrictions were placed in Nowhatta area as traffic was plying on roads, security forces personnel were deployed in Nowhatta and adjoining areas and nobody was allowed to move into Jamia Masjid compound.

Since August 5, when the Centre abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and bifurcated the erstwhile State into two union territories, no prayers have been held at Jamia Masjid.

“Nobody was allowed to proceed towards the Jamia Masjid,” KNS quoted a resident of Nowhatta as saying.“Today, it was for the 17th consecutive Friday, that no congregational prayers were held at Jamia Masjid.”

Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who would deliver weekly Friday sermons at the Jamia Masjid, continues to remain under house detention at his Nigeen residence since August 5.

During summer unrest of 2016, Friday prayers could not be held at the Jamia Masjid for 16 consecutive weeks. This year it has been 17 weeks since last Friday congregational prayers were held at the grand masjid. (KNS)

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Lt Governor announces special ex-gratia of Rs 30 Lakhs to the NoKs of Sheikh Zahoor Ahmed

Srinagar

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Girish Chandra Murmu today announced a special ex-gratia of Rs. 30 lakhs in favour of the Next of Kins (NoKs) of Sheikh Zahoor Ahmed, Junior Agriculture Extension Officer who was killed by the militants while performing his duties during the Back to Village-2 (B2V2) programme in village Hakura, Anantnag on November 26th, 2019.

The Lt Governor observed that these inhuman and dastardly acts are not going to deter the Government in its resolve to reach out to the people and usher a new era of participatory development.

“We condemn the barbaric act. We pay our rich tributes to the departed souls, who laid down their lives in the call of duty during a special welfare programme of the government under the Mission of Delivering Governance and Development at doorsteps. The noble souls will be in our prayers and thoughts. We express our deepest sympathies with the bereaved families and pray for their courage and fortitude to bear the loss”, the Lt Governor said.

Pertinently, at the conclusion of the B2V event at Hakura, terrorists had lobbed a grenade and fired indiscriminately in which, Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad and Sarpanch of village Hakura, had sustained injuries in the attack, who later succumbed to their injuries at District hospital Anantnag. Two other Government employees also sustained injuries in the attack.

Meanwhile, the Lt Governor has directed the Rural Development Department to speedily process the compensation case of the NoKs of the Late Sarpanch, Syed Mohammad Rafi.

The Lt Governor has further directed the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to ensure that the two injured employees receive the best medical treatment.

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Govt working on implementation of 73rd, 74th amendments of Panchayat Raj Act to empower PRIs: Lt Governor

Srinagar

Lieutenant Governor, Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday said that government was working on the implementation of 73rd and 74th amendments of Panchayat Raj Act to empower Panchayat members to work more effectively across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Lt. Governor during Back to Village-2 programme at Sonpah, Beerwah in Budgam district

The Lt Governor made these remarks while addressing a huge gathering during Back to Village-2 programme at Sonpah, Beerwah in Budgam district. The Lt Governor was accompanied by Chief Secretary, BVR Subrahmanyam, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Baseeer Ahmad Khan and IG Kashmir, SP Pani.

During his maiden visit to the district, the Lt Governor observed that the B2V2 programme was going smoothly across J&K and he was overwhelmed to see people in large members taking part in the ongoing B2V2 programme. He said that the ongoing programme has generated a massive response from the public; however, unfortunately, some people are trying to sabotage it in some areas.

Condemning the recent incident in Hakura, Anantnag, in which a local Sarpanch and an officer lost their lives, the Lt Governor said that such incidents are aimed at disrupting the people-centric welfare programmes and schemes.

Stressing on the extensive follow up of the B2V programme, the Lt Governor observed that the ongoing programme is meant to empower people at the grass root level and assured that the ongoing programme shall be taken to its logical end.

Emphasizing on the speedy completion of development projects, the Lt Governor said that a thorough review of ring road project shall be taken for prompt redressal of all issues regarding the project and its early start.

The Lt Governor observed that a review of PM’s Package shall also be taken for its equitable implementation across the J&K. Special focus is being given on the completion of 2500 languishing projects out of which half of the projects have been completed, he added.

The Lt Governor highlighted the importance of sensitizing people about various Government-run welfare schemes and informed that GoI has launched many people-centric schemes for the development and prosperity of the common masses including an ambitious scheme like “Har Ghar Jal”, which would ensure supply of tapped water to every household of the country.

Earlier, the Lt Governor inspected the stalls established by various departments for awareness regarding their schemes, products and machinery. He interacted with officials and enquired about the implementation of schemes run by the concerned departments.

The Lt Governor also distributed certificates, water purifiers and monetary incentives to hundreds of beneficiaries facilitated by various departments under various government schemes and provided a computer system to Panchayat Ghar, Sonpah. On the occasion, various cultural programmes were performed to highlight the importance of the B2V2 programme.

DDC Budgam, Tariq Hussain Ganai, SP Budgam, Amod Ashok Nagpure, BDC chairmen and hundreds of Panchayat members were also present on the occasion.

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Govt issues orders for payment of Central Allowances to UT staff

Srinagar

The Finance Department of the Union Territory Government issued orders for payment of several Central Allowances to the UT employees which were not applicable to them earlier including grant of Children Education Allowance, Hostel Subsidy, Transport Allowance, Special Allowance for Child Care for Women with Disabilities and incentives for acquiring fresh higher qualification.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had few days back accorded approval to grant of Central Allowances to the Government employees of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which were not applicable here.

The MHA will bear an estimated cost of Rs 4800 crore annually for releasing these Central Allowances in favour of Jammu and Kashmir Government employees.

Official orders issued by the Finance Department today said the amount for reimbursement of Children Education Allowance will be Rs 2250 per month (fixed) per child. However, the reimbursement of Children Education Allowance/ Hostel subsidy can be claimed only for the two eldest surviving children with the exception in case the second child birth results in twins/multiple birth.

The amount of ceiling of hostel subsidy has been fixed at Rs 6750 per month.

Reimbursement of Children Education Allowance for ‘Divyaang’ (disabled persons) children of Government employees will be payable at double the normal prescribed rates i.e. Rs 4500 per month (fixed).

According to the Government order, the rates/ceiling would be automatically raised by 25 percent every time the Dearness Allowance on the revised pay structure goes up by 50 percent.

The Hostel Subsidy and Children Education Allowance can be claimed concurrently. In case, both the spouses are Government servants, only one of them can avail reimbursement.

Reimbursement of CEA and Hostel Subsidy will be applicable for children from Nursery class to 12th.

The Union Territory Government has also granted Transport Allowance to the employees.

Employees in the Pay Level of 9 and above and posted in the cities will get Transport Allowance of Rs 7200 plus DA per month while those posted at other places (not City) will get Rs 3600 plus DA.

Employees in the Pay Level 3 and above but below Level 9 and posted in the cities will get Rs 3600 plus DA while those posted at other places will get Rs 1800 plus DA. Similarly, the employees up to Level 2 and posted within cities will get Rs 1350 plus DA and those posted at other places will get Rs 900 plus DA.

The Finance Department has also approved grant of Special Allowance for Child Care for Women with disabilities.

“Women with disabilities will be paid Rs 3000 per month as Special Allowance for Child Care from the time of the child’s birth till he/she attains the age of two years. It will be payable for maximum of two eldest surviving children. However, the disability will mean a person having minimum disability of 40 percent,’’ the Government order said.

The Government has also approved grant of incentive for acquiring fresh higher qualification by a Government employee in the fields that are directly relevant to the job of the employee.

The employees will be paid lump-sum amount of Rs 30,000 for Ph.D or equivalent, Rs 25,000 for PG degree/diploma of duration more than one year or equivalent, Rs 20,000 for PG degree/diploma of duration one year of less or equivalent, Rs 15,000 for degree/diploma of duration more than three years or equivalent and Rs 10,000 for degree/diploma of duration three years or less or equivalent.

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Use only govt land for new projects: Lt Governor

Srinagar

Lt-Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Girish Chandra Murmu today directed all the departments to utilise only government land for all new projects to be initiated by the government henceforth. He has warned that strict disciplinary action would be taken in case of non-compliance with the order.

According to a government circular Circular No. 05-JK(GAD) of 2019, issued by the UT administration, the Lt-Governor, while reviewing the execution of projects, has “emphasized upon utilisation of government land as the first resort for all new government projects”.

“It is accordingly directed that all government departments shall use government land as a first resort for setting up of new projects. In the event of non-availability of government land, alternate options shall be explored by the departments after the Deputy Commissioner concerned certifies non-availability of government land,” the circular said.

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Statehood to J&K must be restored: Ghulam Hassan Mir

Srinagar

Senior politician and former minister Ghulam Hassan Mir, who was released from house detention earlier this week, said restoration of statehood of Jammu and Kashmir would be the immediate concern of mainstream politicians, reported The Tribune.

According to report, Mir urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government to release all political leaders who have been detained in jails or put under house arrest in wake of abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation J&K into two union territories on August 5.

“In the present scenario, some political leaders will raise their voice for the restoration of Article 370 and its corollary Article 35A but I think the immediate political concern will be the restoration of statehood of J&K,” newspaper The Tribune quoted Mir as having said.

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B2V1 Impact: Octogenarian woman gets pacca house under PMAY

Srinagar

A destitute octogenarian (90 year old) women, Asro Devi of Panchayat Sarar, Block Chenani, has all praise for innovative Back to Village programme as she became the proud owner of a Pacca house under Prime Minister Awas Yojana (PMAY) scheme completed post phase I.

B2V1 Impact: Octogenarian woman gets pacca house under PMAY

Leading a lonely life with her three children having died many years back, the elderly woman had one room Kutcha house shelter for herself and cattle. She was sanctioned a house under PMAY in 2018-19.

During Back to Village Phase-I programme, the Principal Secretary Planning, Rohit Kansal, during his visit to Panchayat Sarar, found that the sanctioned house was under construction and at plinth level.

Immediately, he passed on the spot directions to the concerned authorities to expedite the work and handover the house to the owner after completion of the work.

As the second phase of the programme is underway, the newly constructed Pacca house was formally handed over to the beneficiary in presence of Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Dr Piyush Singla and the concerned visiting officer.

The elderly woman thanked Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal, district administration, RDD for sanctioning PMAY house and also showered blessings on all who helped her in the construction of house.

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DGP Dilbag Singh chairs security review meeting at PCR Kashmir

Srinagar

Director General of Police Dilbag Singh-IPS on Thursday chaired a security review meeting at PCR Kashmir in which he took stock of the security situation in Kashmir Zone, said an official spokesman in a statement.

DGP Dilbag Singh chairs security review meeting at PCR Kashmir

He said that the meeting was attended by IGP Armed Vijay Kumar-IPS, IGP Kashmir S.P Pani-IPS, DIG CKR, SSP Srinagar, SSP Security and other senior officers from CAPF.

“Underscoring the need for the pro-active role of the law enforcing agencies, Director General of Police (DGP), Dilbag Singh has asked the police to put in place effective measures for maintaining peace and order in coordination with each other,” said the spokesman.

He said that the meeting deliberated on security scenario in the Valley. The officers representing different agencies briefed the DGP about the measures put in place for maintaining peace and order and ensuring the security of the people.

Dilbag Singh said that the safety and security of the people is our prime concern and every design of the elements inimical to peace should be foiled firmly. He said that JKP along with other sister agencies has enforced the rule of law after facing tough challenges and have succeeded in maintaining a sense of security among the minds of the people. Public cooperation has helped to make our efforts fruitful and the Organization is giving impetus to strengthen relations with the people for the eradication of crimes from the society.

Referring to the recent incidents in Valley, the DGP said that militants are making all-out attempts to disrupt the situation in Jammu and Kashmir to please their masters across the border and added that our forces are committed and capable enough to counter any anti-peace act.

The DGP directed the officers to maintain close surveillance of such elements trying to disrupt the fast returning peaceful atmosphere and take all measures to neutralise such attempts. He said that the militants involved in the killing of Sarpanch Syed Rafiq and RD employee Sheikh Zahoor at Hakura have been identified as Junaid and Zubair of HM and ensured that they will be brought to law.

The DGP reiterated that nobody is above law and one who breaks the law would be dealt with firmly. He said that while dealing with any situation, it should be ensured that law-abiding people are not put to any inconvenience during their day-to-day activities.

Further DGP directed the officers to strengthen the Nakas established across the valley and augment the security grids to ensure a safe and secure environment for the citizens of the valley. DGP stressed that the action against the terrorist should be continued and all the suspicious elements should be kept under check so as to foil their ill designs aimed at disrupting normal lives of the people.

The spokesman said that DGP reiterated that the support of community members is essential and more and more public cooperation should be ensured by prioritising community-based programmes. All possible help be exercised in case of bad weather.

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Lt Governor Reviews Proposed Mass Rapid Transit System, Light Rail Projects

Jammu

Lieutenant Governor, Girish Chandra Murmu took a comprehensive review of the proposed Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) and the Light Rail Projects for Jammu and Srinagar cities in a meeting he chaired at Jammu on Thursday at the Raj Bhavan.

Lt. Governor reviewing proposed Mass Rapid Transit System

BVR Subrahmanyam, Chief Secretary; Arun Kumar Mehta, Financial Commissioner, Finance; Bipul Pathak, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor; Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development Department; Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary Planning, Development and Monitoring  Department; Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, CEO , Mass Rapid Transit Corporation, Jammu & Metro Rail Transport Corporation Srinagar; Vikas Kundal, Addl. CEO, Metropolitan Regulatory Authority, Srinagar ; Avny Lavasa, CEO, J&K Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) and Pankaj Magotra, Commissioner JMC attended the meeting.

Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, Dheeraj Gupta gave a detailed presentation on Jammu / Srinagar Light Rail Projects. It was informed that the prestigious project costing Rs 9590 cr is expected to commence operations by September 2024.

The meeting was informed that the Light Metro Elevated Corridor in Jammu will connect Bantalab to Bari Brahmana Railway Station (Corridor-1) with a total length of 23 km in Phase-I and Exhibition Ground to Udheywala (Corridor-1) and Exhibition Ground to Satwari Chowk (Corridor-2) in Phase-II.

Similarly, in Srinagar, Indra Nagar to HMT Junction (Corridor-1) and Hazuri Bagh to Osmanabad (Corridor-2) of 12.5 km length each and Indra Nagar to Pampore Bus-stand (Corridor-1) Hazuri Bagh to Airport (Corridor-2) will be taken up in Phase-I & II, respectively.

The Lt. Governor emphasized on the linkage of Light Metro stations with the tourist destinations and places of high footfall. He directed the officers to prepare a wise plan for the clearance of Right of Way (RoW), land acquisition and other such matters.

The Lt Governor observed that the planning and development of Mass Rapid Transit should be timed with growth in travel demand for successful implementation of the mega project.

On current scenario of Urban Transport, it was informed that the Average Daily Trips in Jammu and Srinagar, catered by Public and Intermediate Public Transport is 12 lakh (68%) and 21 lakh (88 %), respectively.

The meeting also discussed several important issues including major parameters for selection of MRTS corridors, fare structure of various operational metro rail systems and transportation model. A video presentation was also given on the proposed MRTS for Jammu and Srinagar cities

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Not a single bullet fired in J&K since August 5: Satya Pal Malik

Srinagar

Goa Governor Satya Pal Malik, who till recently was the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday said that he still suffers from a Kashmir hangover, IANS reported.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 50th edition of the International Film Festival of India, Malik, who oversaw a landmark political and constitutional transition in the region during his stint there, said that not a single bullet had been fired in J&K ever since the revocation of Article 370 in August this year.

“I just arrived in Goa three weeks ago. And I have come from Kashmir. So I am still suffering from a Kashmir hangover,” Malik said in his speech during the concluding ceremony of the festival, which was co-organised by the Union Ministry for Information and Broadcasting and the Goa government.

Malik said that before the Central government decided to revoke Article 370, which conferred a special status on the now former northern state, scores of people would be killed every week due to skirmishes.

“And now, even after Article 370 was abrogated, the Indian armed forces did not need to fire even a single bullet,” Malik said, adding that often bureaucrats would scare him by saying that at least 1,000 people might be killed in the aftermath of doing away with the special status.

Malik oversaw a controversial period as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, during which the central government abrogated Article 370 and bifurcated the state into two Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, reported newsagency IANS.

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Sweden calls for lifting of restrictions in Kashmir

Srinagar

Sweden has joined the list of European countries that have expressed concern about the lockdown and communications blackout in Kashmir, with foreign minister Ann Linde saying India should lift the remaining restrictions in the region, Hindustan Times reported.

Sweden’s foreign minister Anne Linde

According to report, Linde told the Swedish Parliament on Wednesday that the country doesn’t want any escalation of the situation in Kashmir, and that any long-term political solution “must involve Kashmiri inhabitants”. Linde will be part of the delegation accompanying King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden on a state visit to India during December 1-6.

Earlier this month, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Finland foreign minister Pekka Haavisto said during their visits to New Delhi the situation in Kashmir is “not sustainable”. They too called for lifting of restrictions imposed after the Indian government revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status on August 5.

Answering a question in the Riksdag or Parliament, Linde described the situation in Kashmir as “worrying” and said Sweden and the European Union (EU) support a “bilateral political solution through contacts between India and Pakistan”.

“We emphasise the importance of respect for human rights, that an escalation of the situation in Kashmir is avoided and that a long-term political solution to the situation must involve Kashmir’s inhabitants. Dialogue between India and Pakistan is crucial,” the newspaper Hindustan Times quoted her as saying.

Sweden and the EU also urge the Indian government to “lift the remaining restrictions” in Kashmir as it is crucial to restore “free movement and communication opportunities”, she said.

Swedish ambassador Klas Molin said in an interview his country and the EU have a “principled” view on Kashmir. “We know it’s long-standing, it goes back decades and I think we also have said consistently that because it is historically bilateral in nature, it can only be solved reasonably through negotiations and discussions between the two concerned parties, India and Pakistan.”

Acknowledging India’s “legitimate security concerns”, he said: “But we and the EU also recognise the importance of Kashmiris to have a say in their own future.”

Molin added: “We also see that the system is working in the sense that the Supreme Court in India is now hearing grievances or appeals. That’s as it should be.”

However, he noted that concern had been expressed “by many organisations and by some in Europe and elsewhere (about) the lockdown and restriction of information”. Sweden, he said, would welcome the early lifting of all restrictions.

Molin also said diplomats should be allowed to visit Kashmir to assess the situation for themselves. “I think it’s in the nature of the beast that is the curious diplomat to travel in the country of assignment. So I would personally love to visit Kashmir for all kinds of reasons and engage as we do in other parts of India with the population, with politicians and civil society,” Hindustan Times quoted Molin as saying.

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State Drugs Controller constitutes teams to collect statutory samples

Srinagar

In order to ensure safe, efficacious and quality medicines are being made available to the general public, State Drugs Controller, J&K Lotika Khajurai, constituted two teams of Drugs Control Officers to lift statutory drug samples of Medical Devices and Cosmetics particularly in the Zone V and Zone VI areas of the Srinagar City.

The constituted teams have lifted around 23 statutory samples of Cosmetics and Medical Devices, which have been referred to the National Institute of Biologicals-Noida, RDTL-Guwahati, CRI-Kasauli and RDTL-Chandigarh for analysis.

She also said that necessary directions have been issued to dealers to desist from indulging in unethical trade practices and involvement in committing violations with respect to Drug and Cosmetic Act, 1940 and Rules, 1945 and Medical Devices Rules, 2017. Further they were directed to improve the storage conditions to preserve the properties of medical products during their shelf life.

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Attention candidates appearing for Fireman, driver written test

Srinagar

The Chairman, Departmental Recruitment Board, Fire and Emergency Services, has informed all the candidates who are due to appear in written test for the post of Fireman/Fireman Driver on December 15th, that the syllabus is available for downloading on departmental website – fireandemergencyjk.co.in.

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Dr Jitendra Singh to inaugurate two-day conference on Jal Shakti, disaster management

Srinagar

The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) in collaboration with Governments of Tamil Nadu and Union Territory of Jammu &Kashmir is organizing a two-day Conference on ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’ with focus on Jal Shakti and Disaster Management on November 30-December 1, 2019 at Jammu.

The two-day event will be inaugurated by Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent charge) of the Ministry of DONER, Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions; Atomic Energy & Space along with G.C. Murmu, Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, R.B. Udhayakumar, Minister for Revenue & Disaster Management, Government of Tamil Nadu and R.K. Mathur Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh. U.P.Singh, Secretary, Water Resources and B.V.R.Subrahmanyam, Chief Secretary, J&K will also address the Inaugural Session.

On this occasion, the MoS (PP) will release the Special issue of e-Magazine, ‘Minimum Government Maximum Governance’ based on Successful Innovations in Governance in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and also the integration of CPGRAMS Public Grievance Portal of Government of India and Awaaz-e-Awam Portal of Jammu & Kashmir.

There will be four Technical Sessions on Day1, ‘Rejuvenation of Rivers- Cauvery and Jhelum’ and ‘Reducing Water Consumption in Agriculture’, ‘Water Warriors Discussion’ and ‘Collectors Speak on Jal Shakti Mission’. On Day2, in the Technical Session on ‘Urban Flooding’, speakers will address on ‘Management of Floods’, ‘Forecasting & Early Warning’, ‘Emergency Responses’ and ‘NDRF Rescue Operations– 2014 Srinagar Floods and 2015 Chennai Floods’. This will be followed by Line Departments Speak deliberation. The ‘SahyogSankalp’ Resolution will be adopted in the Valedictory Session.

The Conference will be attended by 350 delegates from State Government – District Collectors/ District SP’s/ SDRF/ Additional District Collectors/ Civil Society/ Engineering Departments/ Food & Civil Supplies Department/ Communication/ Flood-affected Families.

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Incident At Anantnag Will Not Deter Governments Public Outreach Programmes: Chief Secretary

Srinagar

Phase-2 of the Back to Village Programme has been launched by the Government from November 25 to November 29, 2019, across the Union Territory of J&K. The Programme is in progress in 4300 Panchayats across J&K with around 5000 Officers deputed to assess the institutionalization of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) at the grassroots level besides impact of various flagship programmes and welfare schemes which will help to come up with specific interventions to make the village life better in terms of improved amenities and facilities.

After the conclusion of the B2V Programme in Panchayat Halqa Hakura A & B on November 26, 2019, a grenade was hurled by the militants followed by indiscriminate firing in which Syed Mohammad Rafi, Sarpanch, Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad, Junior Agriculture Extension Officer, Manzoor Ahamad Parray, employee of the Irrigation Department and Peer Noorudin Shah, employee of the Rural Development Department sustained injuries. However, Syed Mohammad Rafi, Sarpanch and Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad, Junior Agriculture Extension Officer succumbed to injuries at District Hospital Anantnag. Police has registered a case in Police Station Anantnag. The investigation has been taken up and a manhunt launched to nab the perpetrators responsible for this dastardly act.

Sheikh Zahoor Ahmad, Junior Agriculture Extension Officer of SK Colony Anantnag is survived by wife, two daughters and a son pursuing professional degree courses. Syed Mohammad Rafi, Sarpanch is survived by two wives, mother, six children and a deaf and dumb brother.

Terming the killing as unfortunate, gruesome and inhuman, Chief Secretary, B V R Subrahmanyam observed that such cowardly acts will not deter the efforts of the Government in reaching out to the public at their doorsteps for delivery of services through various special initiatives, B2V being one of them.

Chief Secretary observed that attack on innocent persons engaged in the welfare of the people is a brutal act for which mere condemnation is not enough.  Such incidents will only strengthen the resolve of the Government to accelerate the pace of development across the Union Territory of J&K.

Expressing deep sorrow and anguish over the Killings, Chief Secretary conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed for peace to the departed souls and courage to the family members to bear this irreparable loss.

A condolence meeting was also held in the Civil Secretariat, Jammu to express grief and sorrow over the inhuman killings and solidarity with the bereaved families.

On the directions of the Lieutenant Governor, G C Murmu, Chief Secretary has directed the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir to ensure that the two injured employees get the best available medical treatment.

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KEG demands restoration of internet services

Srinagar

Kashmir Editors Guild has asked the Lt Governor administration to restore internet, at least broadband services in Kashmir Valley.

“It has been more than three months and internet services still remain suspended in Kashmir valley troubling all sections of society particularly the local media,” KEG observed in a meeting held here in Srinagar on Thursday.

The meeting observed that it is not the media only that is facing the burnt of the blockade but other sections of the society too are suffering.

The meeting asked the govt to restore at least broadband services to media houses, educational and health institutions and business community, particularly one affiliated with the tourism sector.

The meeting observed that the publication of local newspapers is becoming increasingly impossible in the absence of internet services.

“Despite all odds, the local newspaper organizations ensured that their newspapers hit the newsstands every morning and tried to share whatever information they could gather despite information blockade, with their readers. But it is now becoming too difficult as the communication situation is not improving a bit,” observed the KEG meeting, adding, “Newspapers can’t continue their publications exclusively depending on a few internet facilitated systems of the Information Department.”

For smooth functioning of newspapers, collection and dissemination of information, KEG asks the administration to restore at least broadband internet services to registered newspapers, a statement issued following the meeting said.

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Release political leaders, lift curbs: NC

Srinagar

Expressing concern over the detention of political leaders and communication blockade in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference (NC) today sought immediate restoration of political activity by lifting curbs and releasing all leaders, including former Chief Ministers Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

“There could be nothing ironical than the fact that the loudest representative voice from J&K has been chocked in the ongoing session of Parliament by putting towering political leader of the country and senior MP Farooq Abdullah under detention,” senior NC leaders said in joint statement issued from Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan Jammu.

The continued political detentions in the Valley were not in consonance with the democratic polity and ethos of the largest democracy of the world, the statement stated, adding that the worrisome political stalemate for 111 days spoke volumes about the “lack of understanding and insensitivity” of the ruling dispensation, which had pushed J&K into an unprecedented crisis.

The NC leaders said by resorting to undemocratic measures, the government had limited the democratic space of the people. They pitched for restoring civil liberty and allowing freedom of speech as enshrined in the Constitution.

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Internet privacy issues echo in Kashmir hearing

Srinagar

The issue connected with Internet privacy echoed in the Supreme Court on Wednesday, as it pondered over the matter that if the government were to read all messages exchanged through various modes of communication then there might not be any privacy, IANS reported.

A bench headed by N.V. Ramana was hearing the submissions of senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, challenging the restrictions imposed on Internet in the Kashmir Valley, which has affected the livelihood of traders and common people.

The Centre has justified the restriction on the Internet citing social media platform being used to serve the interest of a section of people seeking to propagate anti-state sentiments.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Tuesday said that militants use social media as a weapon. The court asked Sibal: “You appear for WhatsApp in some cases, can government ban it in a particular area?

Sibal said that it is a constitutional question, and the messages are end to end encrypted. “WhatsApp can’t see messages, one can only send messages to five at a time,” newsagency  IANS quoted Sibal as having said.

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NDTV wins award for Kathua rape and murder case coverage

Srinagar

NDTV has won the IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism, 2019, for its coverage of the rape and murder of a young girl in Kathua and the aftermath, anchored by Nidhi Razdan. NDTV was unanimously selected by a jury headed by former Attorney General of India Soli Sorabjee, The Hindu reported.

“The Award is for the expose of the conspiracy to scuttle probe into the heinous Kathua rape and murder: and a strong expose of the political hypocrisy across the political spectrum,” The Hindu quoted a statement from the Indian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI).

The Indian Chapter of the IPI is an active forum of Editors, Publishers and Senior Executives of newspapers, magazines and news agencies, all of whom are members of the International Press Institute, said the statement.

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