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SRINAGAR, APRIL 25: The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today at Raj Bhavan. He was accompanied by Congress MP Shri KC Venugopal, Congress MLAs Shri Ghulam Ahmad Mir and Shri Tariq Hameed Karra and Rajya Sabha MP Dr Syed Naseer Hussain. The discussions covered various aspects of heinous terror attack in Pahalgam.

The Lieutenant Governor posted on X:

“Met the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP Shri KC Venugopal, Congress MLAs Shri Ghulam Ahmad Mir & Shri Tariq Hameed Karra and RS MP Dr Syed Naseer Hussain at Raj Bhavan. We discussed various aspects related to heinous terror attack in Pahalgam".


Katra, April 25: To assess security and operational preparedness of Shrine area for hassle-free pilgrimage, Chief Executive Officer, Anshul Garg today presided over a joint security review meeting with security agencies and other stakeholders at Central Office, Katra.

The meeting was attended by Addl. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SSP, Reasi; Commandant, CRPF;  Jt. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SP, Katra; Sub Divisional Magistrate, Katra; Tehsildar, SMVDSB and officers from Army, intelligence agencies and Shrine Board.

The CEO stressed that the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) coming up at Katra must be operationalized by the first week of May to ensure pilgrim safety and facilitate smooth yatra regulation. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the timeline, highlighting that a robust security grid across all key sectors of the shrine relies on the timely activation of the ICCC as this center will enable real-time monitoring, swift response to emergencies and effective coordination among security agencies through a network of 700 CCTV cameras with features like gesture recognition, face recognition, PTZ and such others as per operational requirements. The CEO urged all concerned quarters to strictly follow the deadline to ensure a safe and secure yatra.

Intelligence sharing and coordination among security agencies also remained key focus areas. The meeting highlighted the need for seamless communication and data exchange to prevent security breaches. Strategies to verify the credentials of Pithoo and Ponywallas to prevent impersonation and ensure their legitimate involvement were also discussed to ensure a secure pilgrimage experience.

The meeting also explored deployment of additional security personnel, area domination and the use of drones and other advanced technologies to monitor the Shrine and surrounding areas. The latest advancements in security scenarios including AI-powered surveillance systems and data analytics were also discussed. The meeting emphasized the importance of staying ahead of potential security threats by adopting cutting-edge technologies and best practices.

The CEO reiterated the importance of effectively utilizing advanced security equipments crucial for maintaining robust security measures provided to security agencies as per the Hon'ble Chairman's (Lt. Governor, JK-UT) directives to ensure a safe environment for pilgrims. These equipments include X-Ray Baggage Scanners, Door Frame Metal Detectors, Hand-Held Metal Detectors and Under Vehicle Search Mirrors recently procured and installed by the Board in the Shrine area.

Geo-fencing technology to enhance security in the Shrine area was also discussed for optimizing resources and improving shrine management.

The CEO emphasized that security agencies must maintain zero tolerance and not allow any relaxation or leniency in security checks at all points, ensuring strict adherence to protocols to guarantee the safety and security of pilgrims visiting the Shrine. It was informed by SSP Reasi that FIRs have been registered against unauthorized personnel caught plying as service providers on the track and continuous inspections are underway.

The meeting also thoroughly discussed the peripheral security of Katra town, focusing on strategies to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and implement effective access control to ensure a secure environment for pilgrims.


 
UDHAMPUR, APRIL 25: In a profound display of compassion and commitment to public service Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Narayana super speciality Hospital, in collaboration with Shri Bhupinder Singh Pathania Charitable Trust (J&K) organized a Free Medical Camp at Block Jaganoo.

 The initiative aimed to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities, particularly in rural areas where access to medical facilities remains limited.

The camp was inaugurated by MLA Ramnagar Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj in presence of Vice Chairperson DDC Udhampur Juhi Pathania, Chairman of the Trust Arjun Singh Pathania and trustees.

Over 400 patients were registered during the camp, availing a total of 1,300 consultations, as many patients received evaluations from multiple specialists.  The camp placed special focus on female health and hygiene, aiming to address critical healthcare gaps in rural areas and promote well-being across communities.

Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj, lauded the efforts of the Trust and Narayana Hospital for organizing such a meaningful healthcare initiative in memory of a towering personality like Lt. Bhupinder Singh Pathania. He emphasized the importance of extending advanced medical services to remote and underserved areas and appreciated the commitment shown by the organizers in making specialized healthcare accessible to the people of Jaganoo and surrounding regions. Dr. Bhardwaj called for more such collaborative efforts to bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide and ensure that no one is left behind due to lack of medical facilities.

Juhi Manhas Pathania extended her heartfelt thanks to the District Administration, particularly the Department of Health and Narayana Superspeciality Hospital for deputing a distinguished team of super-specialist doctors for the camp. She highlighted that while Jaganoo has only a Primary Health Centre catering to basic healthcare needs, it was through the collective support of the administration and the hospital that specialized consultations were made accessible to the local population—many of whom had never before interacted with such advanced medical expertise.

In a poignant tribute, Vijay Gupta, General Secretary of the Trust, recalled the extraordinary selflessness of Lt. Bhupinder Singh Pathania, who turned down prestigious opportunities—including gazetted posts such as Dy. SP, DFO and Tehsildar, as well as admissions to top institutions like BITS Pilani and Patna to dedicate his life to the service of the people. His absence in the Legislative Assembly was deeply felt, as noted by Late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who once said, “The Assembly has suffered his non-presence. We needed a man of such caliber and character.”

 Prominent among those present were Brij Mohan Sharma, former councillor, Romesh Gupta, former Sarpanch, Kuldip Singh (trustees), Ashish Sharma, Arti Sharma, Madan Lal, Sobe Chand, Joginder Sharma, CMO Anil Manhas, CEO Kishore Kumar Badyal, Principal HSS Jaganoo Pawan Kumar, Dr. Neeraj Koul (Professor General Surgery), Dr. Geetu Mahajan (Assistant Professor Obs & Gynaecology), Dr. Archana Shah (Associate Professor ENT), Dr. Gurkim Kaur (Assistant Professor Dermatology), Dr. Ankita Sharma (Assistant Professor General Medicine) Dr. Tamishi Sharma (Assistant Professor Respiratory Medicine), Dr. Akash Narangyal  (Sr. Resident, Orthopedics).

 

Kathua Admin’s collaboration with Agriculture Dept. and BSF brings record yield to Border farmers

KATHUA, APRIL 25: Marking a significant milestone in the district’s agricultural landscape, the harvesting of ripened wheat crop commenced today across the fence in Chak Changa village, along the Zero Line of Chandwan Border Outpost in the Hiranagar IB sector. The initiative, carried out under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, is a result of the seamless coordination between the Agriculture Department, Border Security Force (BSF), and local farmers.

The harvesting process was formally launched by Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Sanjeev Rai Gupta, along with Company Commandant BSF, Insp. Mahesh Kumar.

It marked a remarkable achievement for farmers of the border belt, who are celebrating a bumper wheat harvest this season. Expressing their gratitude, the farmers acknowledged the District Administration, Agriculture Department, and BSF for their unwavering support in ensuring security and providing essential logistical assistance.

The Agriculture Department has deployed 15 tractors and 2 combine harvesters to facilitate the swift harvesting of wheat crops sown over 350 acres across the fence during the Rabi 2024–25 season.

The initiative, which began as a pilot project in Rabi 2021–22, has now expanded significantly, with 90 farmers from villages including Chak Changa, Chak Tanda, Krol Krishna, Karol Maithrain, and Maniyari actively participating in cultivation beyond the fence.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Agriculture Officer Sanjeev Rai Gupta, stated, “Our persistent efforts, coupled with technical assistance and the security support of BSF, have resulted in a successful harvest this year. We are committed to empowering border farmers and ensuring they receive the necessary resources for sustainable agriculture. The harvesting operations will be completed in the next 2–3 days.”

A local progressive farmer, Ram Raj, shared his achievement, stating, “This season, I have reaped an impressive 240 quintals of wheat from 12 acres of cultivated land. The Agriculture Department, especially CAO Kathua, has been instrumental in guiding and supporting us from sowing to harvesting.”

The occasion was also attended by SMS Hiranagar, Tejinder Sharma, AEO Marheen, Jamshed Andotra, along with JAEOs and AEAs from the Marheen zone, who remained active in assisting farmers throughout the cultivation process. 


 Says efforts afoot to make Jammu ODF

JAMMU, APRIL 25: In line with its mission to make Jammu an Open Defecation Free (ODF) city, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) is ramping up efforts to enhance sanitation infrastructure across all wards under JMC jurisdiction.

Addressing public demand and prioritizing hygiene and accessibility, Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation Dr. Devansh Yadav today laid the foundation stone for a new public toilet complex at below bridge opposite Hanuman Mandir Ward No. 13.

 The upcoming facility will include two bathrooms and eight toilets. It is part of a larger plan to construct 16 such public toilet complexes across Jammu city, with a total project cost of approximately Rs. 1.5 crore.

Strategically located near a bus stand, a Super Speciality hospital, and en-route to Jewel Chowk, the site has been chosen to serve a diverse group of users, including commuters, patients, pedestrians, and pilgrims.

The facility will be especially beneficial during the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra and for devotees visiting the nearby Hanuman Temple. Similar complexes would also be established of sanitation facilities to accommodate the increasing number of worshippers.

With this initiative, the JMC reaffirms its commitment to public welfare and sustainable urban development by ensuring essential sanitation amenities are accessible to all. This marks another significant step forward in Jammu’s journey toward becoming a fully ODF city.

Among others joint commissioner Health and Sanitation, Abdul Sattar, Joint Commissioner Works, Firdos Ahmed Qazi, Executive Engineer Project, Lokesh Gupta also accompanied the Commissioner JMC


 Srinagar, April 25: The KVK Budgam in collaboration with KVK Pulwama held a Seed Distribution cum Awareness Programme of Tribal Farmers of Budgam under the project ‘Outreach of Technology and Distribution of Farming Tools for ST and Low-Income Farmers funded under the Tribal Sub-Plan.

The aim of the programme was to distribute high quality potato and maize seeds among Tribal farmers. About 60 farmers of village Lobran, Khag Block participated in the programme.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof Raihana H. Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K who was the chief guest on the occasion.

In her address to farmers, she encouraged them to come forward for such developmental initiatives to augment agriculture in their region & to optimize production for sustenance and commercial viability using new technologies.

She also stressed on adoption and dissemination of these high yielding varieties of potato and maize. She also briefed the farmers about the role of SKUAST-K in augmenting research in agriculture to facilitate the farming in Tribal Areas of Kashmir.

Dr. Javid A. Mughal, Principal Investigator of the project, shared the key highlights of the project in enhancing livelihood of farmers. Dr. Bilal A. Lone ,Prof & Head KVK Budgam, briefed the tribal farmers about the role of KVK Budgam in facilitating such programmes through on farm trials and front-line demonstrations at farmers field.

 Dr Ambreen Nabi, Scientist KVK, deliberated upon the Packages of Practices of Potato (Kufri Jyoti) to be adopted throughout the Tribal Area. Farmers of Lobrin have been hand-held by KVK Budgam for creating sustainable production systems in oilseeds, paddy &  other crops through provision of farming tools from time to time. 

Scientists from SKUAST-K and KVK Budgam and technical staff also attended the programme.


 Srinagar, April 25:  The Government Degree College (GDC), Anantnag, on Thursday organized a solidarity and condolence march to mourn the tragic loss of more than 26 innocent lives in the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack. 

The march was led by the Principal  Prof. (Dr.) Mushtaq Ahmad Malik in which teaching, non-teaching staff and students,  came together to express their grief and condemned the heinous and barbaric act.

The college administration expressed their solidarity with the families of the victims. The college staff expressed their deep regret on the loss of innocent lives and expressed solidarity with the deceased families to bear the irreparable loss of their loved ones.

While offering heartfelt sympathies and condolence, the staff members prayed for the peace to the departed souls and patience for their near and dear ones and recovery of the persons injured during the incident.

The smooth conduct of march was facilitated by J&K Police Anantnag.


 Baramulla, April 25: Continuing its mission to nurture young talent and promote physical fitness among school-going children, the Department of Youth Services and Sports Baramulla,  successfully conducted a series of inter-school zonal level sports events across multiple zones of the district.

In Zone Baramulla, the Under-14 and Under-17 Boys and Girls Wushu and Taekwondo Championships were held at the Kashmir Combative Academy. The event witnessed overwhelming participation from over 24 government and private institutions, with more than 300 students demonstrating exceptional skill, discipline, and sportsmanship across various weight categories.

Zone Wagoora organized its zonal level Wushu and Taekwondo competitions for the Under-14 and Under-17 boys at HSS Kreeri, where 53 students from different schools displayed commendable performances in their respective bouts.

Simultaneously, Zone Dangiwacha hosted its inter-school Wushu and Taekwondo events at the Community Hall Dangiwacha. The Taekwondo segment recorded the participation of 64 students in U/14 and 35 in U/17, while the Wushu event saw 25 students in U/14 and 20 in U/17 competing fiercely. 

The event was graced by the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Dangiwacha as the Chief Guest, who appreciated the participants and the organising committee for their efforts.

Apart from martial arts, focus was also laid on indoor and wellness sports. In Zone Chandanwari, an Inter-School Chess Competition for Under-14 and Under-17 girls was held at HSS Bijhama, encouraging strategic thinking among young minds.

Similarly, Zone Tangmarg hosted its Inter-School Chess Championship for girls at GGHS Chandilora, witnessing enthusiastic participation and a battle of wits across the boards.

Meanwhile, Zone Fatehgarh contributed by organising an Inter-School Yoga Competition for Under-14 and Under-17 girls, promoting mindfulness and physical well-being. 

DYSSO Baramulla, Zahoor Ahmad Wani expressed great satisfaction over the smooth conduct and vibrant participation across all zones. “These competitions are not just about winning medals, but about empowering our youth, inculcating discipline, and encouraging them to lead healthy lifestyles,” he said, while congratulating all the participants and organisers.

These multi-zone events reaffirm the department’s commitment to holistic student development through sports and physical education.

 


Baramulla, April 25: In a moment of pride for the district  Baramulla, the Chinar Yuva Centre Baramulla has been honoured with the prestigious award in the "Sustainable Product Innovation" category at the CASCA 2025 (Climate Action and Sustainability Conference and Awards) held at Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.

Chinar Yuva Centre is a public outreach initiative by Northern Command and Chinar Corps of the Indian Army for Kashmir Valley to help youth to be part of the main stream development. 

Presented by the M3M Foundation and organised by the CSRUniverse, CASCA 2025 is one of India’s leading platforms celebrating exemplary efforts in sustainability and climate action. The event brought together global leaders, policymakers, environmental experts, and innovators committed to fostering a greener and more sustainable future.

The Chinar Yuva Centre’s recognition stems from its groundbreaking work in  youth led innovations in climate conscience, circular product design and eco-friendly practices that significantly reduce environmental impact. 

Speaking on the achievement, the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, congratulated the team and said, “This award is a testament of the youth of Baramulla and their commitment to sustainability. It also reflects our district’s growing role in contributing to India’s climate action goals.”