Trending Now

TRENDING NOW

SRINAGAR

JAMMU

ENTERTAINMENT

WORLD NEWS

News


New Delhi – In a significant gesture of cultural diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The exchange took place on Thursday evening, December 4, 2025, at the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi.

A Symbolic Welcome in Delhi

President Putin arrived in India on Thursday for a two-day state visit to attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Breaking usual protocol, Prime Minister Modi personally welcomed the Russian President at the Palam Airport. In a show of close friendship, the two leaders traveled together in the same car to the Prime Minister’s residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, for a private dinner.
It was during this meeting that PM Modi gifted the sacred text. Sharing a picture of the moment on social media, PM Modi wrote:
👉 "Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world."

Why This Gift Matters

The gift is seen as more than just a formal exchange. It highlights the deep cultural connection between India and Russia. The specific version gifted is the Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita As It Is, published by ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness).
This holds special historical importance. In 2011, a lower court in the Siberian city of Tomsk had heard a case seeking to ban this specific Russian translation, alleging it was "extremist." The case caused concern in the Indian Parliament at the time. However, the Russian courts eventually rejected the ban, allowing the text to remain available. By gifting this very book, PM Modi has subtly reaffirmed the value of Indian culture and religious freedom, while celebrating the text's acceptance in Russia.

President Putin's visit will continue on Friday with formal delegation-level talks. The two leaders are expected to discuss important agreements on defense, nuclear energy, and trade. 


JAMMU, DECEMBER 04: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) on Thursday organized an Entrepreneurship Orientation Program (EOP) for the students of Government College for Women, Parade.

A group of 29 college students participated in the programme, coordinated by the Centre of New Enterprise Creation (CNEC), JKEDI under the overall supervision of Director JKEDI.

The students interacted with the faculty and experts, who briefed them about the evolving startup landscape in the U.T of Jammu and Kashmir. The participating students were acquainted with business plan modeling, Detailed Project Report (DPR) formulation, besides modules for capacity building and provision of financial and market linkage including handholding and mentorship support for the aspiring entrepreneurs. The students were briefed about various program verticals of the institute and their functions. The scope of entrepreneurship as a career choice was also discussed. The students brainstormed on the innovation driven startup ideas along with their viability to be turned into successful business ventures. 

 Later, the students participated in the question and answer session and put forth their understanding of various topics related to startups and entrepreneurship.

Speaking at the event, Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department and Director, JKEDI Khalid Jahangir highlighted the scope of entrepreneurship as a viable career choice in today’s dynamic world. He encouraged students to acquire skills and innovate to stay ahead in the competition.

Joint Director JKEDI, Chand Kishor Sharma briefed the participating students about entrepreneurship as a career choice and the vast opportunities it offers in today’s world. He urged them to orient their career choices accordingly.

Faculty from different verticals shared the role of the institute in creating an enabling ecosystem for entrepreneurship while detailing various interventions it is carrying out to do the same.

Earlier, In-charge, Centre of New Enterprise Creation (CNEC), Dr. Vinod Kumar welcomed the participants and described how different verticals of the institute have come into being in line with the institute's vision, mission and the strategic goals.

The programme concluded with brief on the inspiring journey of some successful entrepreneurs. The account of the challenges they faced in their entrepreneurial journey and how they have achieved their milestones further strengthened the conviction and motivation which the preceding sessions had pitched in.


Also lays foundation for 
22-cr Lasjan–Kadlabal road upgrade and Sukhnag steel-girder Bridge at Beerwah

BUDGAM, DECEMBER 04: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated and laid e-foundation stones for a series of transformative development projects in Budgam district worth nearly 100 crore, giving a major push to local infrastructure and public services.

The projects include multiple Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) Water Supply Schemes across Gudsathoo, Dreygam, Drang, Kultreh Wanpora, Qazipora, Awanpora, Rangreth Wavoosa, Checkmari Colony, Nowbugh, Delipora Badipora and Zaloosa, aimed at providing reliable and safe drinking water to thousands of households.



In addition, the Chief Minister inaugurated works for a Multi-Level Car Parking facility, announced the upgradation of the Kadalbal–Lasjan Road, and laid the foundation stone for the construction of a 2×35 m Steel Truss Bridge over Nallah Sukhnag at Beerwah, in order to significantly improve traffic flow, connectivity and commuter convenience in the area.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Speaker Legislative Assembly & MLA Charar-i-Sharief, Advocate Abdul Raheem Rather; Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmad Rana; Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi; MLA Beerwah, Shafi Ahmed Wani; MLA Chadoora, Ali Mohammad Dar; MLA Khan Sahib, Saifud-din Bhat, along with senior officers and officials from the concerned departments.


CM directs responsible fund utilisation, enhancing Mission YUVA outreach, swift resolution of constituency-wise issues

BUDGAM, DECEMBER 04: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today directed the Budgam district administration to ensure full winter preparedness so that the people of the district do not face any inconvenience in terms of electricity, ration supply or snow clearance during the coming months.

He issued these directions while chairing a detailed district review meeting in Budgam, where the entire developmental scenario of the district was assessed threadbare.

The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana and Javid Ahmed Dar, Speaker Legislative Assembly Advocate Abdul Raheem Rather, who represents Charar-i-Sharief constituency in Legislative Assembly, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and MLAs Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi (Budgam), Ali Mohammad Dar (Chadoora), Shafi Ahmed Wani (Beerwah) and Saif-ud-din Bhat (Khan Sahib).

Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Budgam Bilal Mohi-ud-Din, Heads of Departments, district officers and other concerned officials were also present.


At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner Budgam gave a detailed presentation on the status of the Capex budget under UT and CSS, the district’s winter preparedness measures and the stock position of ration and LPG. He also briefed the meeting about the status of Constituency Development Fund and MPLADS, besides providing updates on both financial and physical achievements in major projects under Public Works (R&B), Jal Jeevan Mission and various other departments. Department-wise progress was shared in respect of Jal Shakti, Power Development Department, NABARD, Rural Development, Labour & Employment, Health and Medical Education, School Education, Social Welfare, Youth Services & Sports, Agriculture and allied sectors, Animal Husbandry and other departments. Chief Minister assessed the progress of development works across the district and issued necessary instructions during the course of the meeting. He laid special emphasis on winter preparedness and asked the administration to take extra care on this front. He noted that last year the winter management had been widely appreciated as power cuts were kept minimal despite harsh weather, and expressed hope that this year too the district would maintain the same performance.

However, the Chief Minister expressed concern that snow clearance last year had suffered due to lack of coordination between different agencies. He pointed out that often various stretches of connected roads are being maintained by multiple departments, resulting in only partial clearance as each agency clears its own portion and leaves the remaining unattended. He directed the district administration to evolve a mechanism for coordinated snow clearance, for appointing a nodal officer if necessary, and ensure that entire roads are cleared end-to-end regardless of whether these fall under PMGSY, R&B or any other agency. He said that people must not suffer due to administrative overlap.

Referring to developmental works, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the district had faced delays due to two months of the Model Code of Conduct and procedural issues of financial approvals. He nevertheless urged the administration to make the best possible use of the remaining working months—December, January, February and March—while ensuring that expenditure is made responsibly and not merely for the sake of spending. He said it must be ensured that no funds lapse and that the money spent translates into visible public benefit.

Speaking on employment generation, Omar Abdullah reiterated that unemployment cannot be addressed solely through government jobs. He said the administration must reach out to youth, publicise the success stories of Mission YUVA and encourage more young people to take up self-employment and entrepreneurship. He stressed that such schemes must be taken to the grassroots so that their benefits reach the maximum number of people.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of timely expenditure under SASCI, noting that nearly 80 percent of the funds under the scheme are required to be spent within a specified time frame to avoid forfeiture. He instructed the Deputy Commissioner to review SASCI progress at least three to four times a month and push departments wherever necessary so that the required expenditure is booked in time and the district continues to receive funds under the scheme.

Responding to the specific issues raised by the MLAs in the meeting, Omar Abdullah directed the administration to immediately examine the concerns highlighted regarding the Chadoora Bridge and to expedite the creation of the required civil infrastructure for the installation of the CT scan machines so that these facilities become operational at the earliest. He assured them that the upcoming budget would be framed with their inputs and that ongoing works would be accelerated. He reiterated his commitment to working jointly with elected representatives to resolve public issues, saying there would be no shortcomings in addressing genuine demands of the people.

Earlier in the meeting, the MLAs had raised several developmental issues pertaining to their constituencies and sought intervention for timely resolution. The Chief Minister assured them that all genuine issues would be taken up on priority.

Later, the Chief Minister interacted with Mission YUVA beneficiaries and handed over sanction letters amounting to 46.04 lakh. He also released financial assistance worth 353.44 lakh under various welfare schemes of the J&K Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board in favour of 7,593 registered construction workers of district Budgam.


LG highlights the need to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data analysis into diagnostic processes for accuracy and speed and to strengthen the bridge between Science and Medicine

Healthcare system must focus on enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing time to treatment: LG Sinha

Mainstreaming the Precision Medicine approach through advanced diagnostic tests is crucial. Labs should develop modern infrastructure to transform data into clinical insights for doctors: LG

Building a modern healthcare system and improving the quality of life for all, is our goal: LG Sinha

LG calls upon public and private sectors’ stakeholders to collaborate to provide dedicated diagnostic facilities in remote areas and reduce the time between diagnosis and treatment in far-flung areas

JAMMU, DECEMBER 04: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Thursday addressed the inaugural session of ‘APCON 2025’, the 73rd Annual Conference of the Indian Association of Pathologists & Microbiologists (IAPM) and International Academy of Pathologists -Indian Division (IAP-ID), at Government Medical College, Jammu.  

The 5-Day annual conference on the theme “Emerging Trends in Pathology: From Morphology to Molecular Insights,” has brought together leading pathologists and microbiologists to deliberate on the latest advancements and innovations shaping the field of pathology.

In his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the need to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data analysis into diagnostic processes for accuracy and speed and to strengthen the bridge between Science and Medicine.

“Healthcare system must focus on enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing time to treatment. Mainstreaming the Precision Medicine approach through advanced diagnostic tests is crucial. Labs should develop modern infrastructure to transform data into clinical insights for doctors,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor made valuable suggestions for developing preventative strategies and improving public health.

“First, empower the pathology field with cutting-edge advancements and develop standard protocols for patient treatment through multidisciplinary research.

Secondly, identify and bridge gaps in educational programs by developing new training modules.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that, under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the healthcare sector has seen historic transformation. He urged all stakeholders to work together to expand digital records and the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) facility to remote areas and link smaller health centers with larger labs for expert advice.

“Building a modern healthcare system and improving the quality of life for all, is our goal. Public and private sectors must collaborate to provide dedicated diagnostic facilities in remote areas and reduce the time between diagnosis and treatment in far-flung areas,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Principal GMC Jammu; Dr Usha Kini, President Indian Association of Pathologists & Microbiologists (IAPM); Dr. Reeni Mallik, Vice President IAPM; Dr. Ranjan Agarwal, Honorary Secretary, IAPM; office bearers of IAPM and International Academy of Pathologists-Indian Division (IAP-ID), Pathologists and Medical Professionals attended the inaugural session.

Shri Arvind Gupta, Member Legislative Assembly from Jammu West; Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Health and Medical Education, and senior officials of civil and police administration were also present.




Says success of Mission YUVA depends on close coordination between departments and banks

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: Chief Minister today chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of Mission YUVA, a flagship initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for the youth across Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Minister said that the real strength of Mission YUVA lies in the success stories emerging from the ground. “Wherever we find a speed breaker or friction, we will remove it swiftly,” he said, emphasizing that seamless coordination between departments and banks is essential to ensure that young entrepreneurs succeed.

He underlined that although the Mission is still in its early operational phase, the results are encouraging. “We have been discussing this for some time. The actual operational duration of these schemes is barely a few months, and in any scheme, that is a very short life cycle. The first year or so is spent in learning and fine-tuning. To that extent, with more than 10,000 sanctions and around 600–670 disbursements, I believe the success of Mission YUVA will feed on itself,” he said.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary Labour & Employment Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, MD & CEO J&K Bank Amitava Chatterjee, vice chancellors of several universities, Deputy Commissioners, Mission Director Mission YUVA, Director JKEDI, MD JKRLM, Directors of IIT and IIM Jammu, and representatives of BISAG, NABARD and other concerned institutions.

Outstation officers participated via video conferencing.

Earlier, Secretary Labour & Employment made a detailed presentation on the implementation status of Mission YUVA—from its conception to its evolution till date. He briefed the meeting about UDYAM Jagriti, a comprehensive awareness campaign, outlining its key features, phases and its role in amplifying success stories, objectives of district-level conferences and workshops, social media outreach and the dedicated mobile application.

The meeting discussed, threadbare, the next steps required to ensure the Mission’s successful implementation. It was informed that over 60,000 applications were received within just six months of the scheme’s launch.

The Chief Minister reviewed district-wise data of applications received over the last two years, the status of applications at various processing levels, average timelines for verification, week-on-week sanctioning trends by banks, progress at registration cells, training coverage and trainee monitoring.

J&K Bank also made a detailed presentation on the status of loan sanctions under Mission YUVA. It was informed that from the inception of the scheme, J&K Bank has sanctioned 10,172 cases, of which 9,393 have been collateral-free, reflecting strong institutional support for young entrepreneurs.

The Chief Minister directed all departments, financial institutions and implementation agencies to work in synergy and maintain momentum to ensure timely sanctions, smooth disbursal and robust monitoring mechanisms, enabling Mission YUVA to deliver transformative outcomes for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.


Promises transparency, simplified process in compassionate appointments

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reiterated his government’s commitment to clearing the backlog of compassionate appointments under SRO-43 and the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS-2022), assuring that all necessary relaxations would be granted wherever required to simplify and make the entire process fully transparent.

The Chief Minister was speaking at a function organised at the Convention Centre here where he handed over appointment orders to candidates under SRO-43 and RAS-2022, besides issuing regularisation orders to Contingent Paid Workers (CPWs) of the School Education Department.

The event was attended by Minister Sakina Itoo, Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary GAD M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Secretary School Education Ram Nivas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, and a large gathering of beneficiaries and family members.

In his address, the Chief Minister, who is the Minister in charge of the General Administration Department, assured the beneficiaries that the government is determined to clear the backlog of cases under SRO-43 and RAS-2022.

“As far as the orders of SRO-43 are concerned, I assure you that we will try our best to dispose of the pending cases. We will grant relaxation in cases as per the norms and make this process as transparent as possible,”

the Chief Minister said.


Expressing deep empathy with families who approach the government during their most difficult hours, the Chief Minister stressed that compassionate appointments are not acts of favour but rightful entitlements under an established policy.

“On behalf of the government, our only effort is to help you in this difficult time. You should not feel that you are alone or that no one stands with you. If the government supports you in your moment of helplessness, this is not a favour—this is your right.”

Speaking about the long-pending cases of CPWs and their regularisation, the Chief Minister said

“For CPWs, this day carries a different meaning. As Sakina Sahiba has already mentioned, we will do our best to regularise CPW and issue orders. For those under RAS and SRO-43, I know many of you have suffered a lot to reach here. And I apologise to you for that.”

Regarding delay in processing of SRO 43/ RAS cases, he said

“This should not happen. When there is a government system, it should work automatically. I assure you—we will simplify the procedure further. We will reduce the difficulties you face. Since I hold the GAD portfolio myself, I will personally ensure that bottlenecks are removed.”

The Chief Minister said delivering these orders is a matter of duty, not generosity.

“If we increase your problems during this difficult time, we fail in our duty. These compassionate jobs are your right, and delivering them is our responsibility. If you had to wait long, I apologise for that. But I promise we will do everything possible to make the process easier.”

He urged the newly appointed beneficiaries to shoulder their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication.

“A heavy responsibility has come your way, perhaps earlier than expected. Do your best to fulfil it. We will always stand with you to make your work easier. If you face any difficulty, do not hesitate to knock on my door—I am always there for you.”

The Chief Minister added that more regularisation orders for CPWs would soon be issued by the Education Department under the supervision of Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo.

Speaking on the occasion, Sakina Itoo said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accorded top priority to clearing SRO-43 and RAS-2022 cases to ensure long-pending grievances are addressed.

She noted that many deserving candidates had been waiting for nearly a decade.

“After around 10 years of struggle, the deserving candidates finally received their due under the present government,” she said.

The Minister added that the regularisation of CPWs aligns with the government’s broader vision of extending relief to those who have devoted precious years of service to the School Education Department.


I salute the resilience, determination and potential of Divyangjans. We are committed to building a system that aligns with their dreams and aspirations, eliminating all challenges and barriers: LG

LG calls upon all the officials, social organizations to pledge to protect and promote rights of Divyangjans

We must work with sensitivity, awareness, and a shared resolve to ensure their dignity and meaningful participation and guarantee access to education, skills, and livelihoods: LG

Inclusion of Divyangjans is the foundation of equitable development: LG Sinha

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, special efforts have been made to provide equal opportunities, equal rights, a quality life to our Divyangjan: LG

Together, we must build a J&K where accessibility is the norm, where every Divyangjan has access to all facilities, equal employment opportunities, and the advanced technical tools needed to live a life with dignity and respect: LG Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: “I salute the resilience, determination and potential of Divyangjans. We are committed to building a system that aligns with their dreams and aspirations, eliminating all challenges and barriers,” the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said on Wednesday. He was speaking at an “International Day of Persons with Disabilities” event at Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar.


The event was organized by Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRC), Jammu under the theme: "Celebrating Ability, Preserving Culture". The global theme for this year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities is "Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress".

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon all the officials and social organizations to pledge to protect and promote the rights of Divyangjans.

“Inclusion of Divyangjan is the foundation of equitable development. We must work with sensitivity, awareness, and a shared resolve to ensure their dignity and meaningful participation and guarantee access to education, skills, and livelihoods,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor shared the key initiatives of the UT Administration towards providing comprehensive support for socio-economic empowerment of Divyangjans.

He stated that, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, special efforts have been made to provide equal opportunities, equal rights, and a quality life to Divyangjans.

“Together, we must build a J&K where accessibility is the norm, where every Divyangjan has access to all facilities, equal employment opportunities, and the advanced technical tools needed to live a life with dignity and respect,” the Lieutenant Governor said,

The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the Composite Regional Centre, Jammu for its commendable efforts in rehabilitation and empowerment of Divyangjans.

Since 2024, CRC Jammu has conducted over 35,000 clinical surveys and distributed assistive devices worth over Rs 2 crore, transforming countless lives.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor handed over the assistive devices and kits to beneficiaries and also visited stalls put up by various social service organisations.

Shri Vikram Randhawa, Member of Legislative Assembly from Bahu; Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges; Dr. Rohnika Sharma, Director, CRC Jammu (Samba); senior officials, Heads of educational institutions, prominent citizens, members of various social organisations, students and people in large numbers were present.