Trending Now

TRENDING NOW

SRINAGAR

JAMMU

ENTERTAINMENT

WORLD NEWS


News


JAMMU, NOVEMBER 3: The Department of Horticulture Jammu and Kashmir today announced its active participation in the upcoming Jhiri Mela 2025, a revered cultural and spiritual fair held annually in honour of farmer saint Baba Jittoo.

This yearly event will be held from November 4 to November 12 at Jhiri village and is expected to draw thousands of devotees and visitors from across the region.

The Horticulture Department will set up a dedicated exhibition stall to highlight the rich diversity of horticultural produce from Jammu and Kashmir. The stall will feature fresh fruits from local orchards and farms; demonstrations on high-density plantation techniques and expert guidance on government schemes and subsidies.

Speaking about the initiative, the Director of Horticulture, Jammu said, “Jhiri Mela is not only a spiritual gathering but also a platform to connect with our farming community. Through this exhibition, we aim to educate and empower growers with modern horticultural practices and promote horticulture-entrepreneurship.

The department has invited the public, especially farmers and agriculture-enthusiasts to visit the stall and interact with horticulture experts, extension officers and progressive growers.


JAMMU, NOVEMBER 03: Shri Rahul Sahai, Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce Jammu Chapter called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, today.



NAGROTA, NOVEMBER 03 — Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the upcoming by-elections to the Nagrota Assembly Constituency, Ms. Devyani Rana, today met the grieving family of Shubham Manhas, a daily wager with the Power Development Department (PDD), who tragically lost his life while performing his duty.

 

Ms Rana met the grieving family, other mourners and people from the area at the National Highway where they were staging protests over the incident, seeking accountability for negligence.

 

She also joined the mourners at the cremation ground where the mortal remains of the deceased were consigned to flames amid mantras.

 

 At his residence, Ms Devyani Rana expressed her profound sorrow over the tragic death, offered condolences and expressed solidaritry. She said the loss of Shri Manhas is a huge tragedy for the family and no words can truly ease their pain.

 

She prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

 

 Interacting with the mourners, Ms. Devyani Rana expressed deep concern over the growing occurrences of such tragic mishaps involving power department field staff. She said that these repeated incidents point to serious gaps in safety protocols and must be examined at the highest level to evolve a robust and foolproof system that ensures the protection of workers performing high-risk duties.

 

 Ms. Rana emphasized that the safety of maintenance and technical staff cannot be compromised under any circumstances, and called for immediate corrective and preventive measures to minimize such accidents in the future. She reiterated that those working tirelessly to maintain essential services deserve a safe and secure work environment, equipped with proper gear, training, and supervision.

 

 

She further urged the concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to this unfortunate incident, to determine accountability and prevent recurrence. Ms. Rana also sought immediate and adequate compensation for the bereaved family, along with all possible institutional support to help them rebuild their lives in this hour of immense loss.


KUPWARA, NOVEMBER 03: The Department of Fisheries Kupwara has undertaken a significant initiative by stocking Brown Trout fingerlings in the upper reaches of Mawar, Dringyari, and Kalaroose streams, which have been officially declared as trout streams under the J&K Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 2018.

The genetically improved eyed ova of Brown Trout were imported from Denmark under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampadha Yojana (PMMSY) 2024–25 and were reared to fingerling size at the departmental hatchery in Kulgam before being released into the natural streams.

This milestone initiative aims to replenish and enrich natural trout habitats, ensuring the sustenance of fish biodiversity and promoting sport fishing in the region. 

Pertinently, Brown Trout, a globally renowned sport fish, attracts anglers from across the world. Kashmir, known as the “Angler’s Paradise,” continues to host thousands of fishing enthusiasts every year.

In Kupwara, several anglers have already started visiting these streams to enjoy trout fishing in the pristine waters. Apart from recreation, trout angling contributes significantly to eco-tourism promotion and environmental conservation, while also encouraging responsible interaction with nature.

The Department of Fisheries has reiterated its commitment to strengthen sustainable fisheries management and promote angling-based tourism in the district.


Since SDRF relief is insufficient, I had earlier requested HRDS India to rebuild 1,500 fully damaged houses across the UT under Operation Sindoor and in the aftermath of August floods, to which they had agreed. This initiative will provide huge relief to the affected families: LG Sinha

In a boost to our efforts to provide modern infrastructure to Paddar Kishtwar, Government of India has sanctioned an Army Goodwill School, One Petrol Pump at Paddar: LG

LG announces that BRO will reconstruct Atholi to Machail Mata Road, build a new bridge in Chishoti, and BSNL to set up new 4G towers

KISHTWAR, NOVEMBER 03: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today laid the foundation stone for construction of new houses for flood-affected families in Chishoti Paddar in Kishtwar.

19 houses that were completely damaged during natural disaster that struck Chishoti will be rebuilt free of cost with support of High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), a Civil Society Organisation.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor paid homage to the citizens and security personnel who lost their lives due to the tragic natural disaster.

“The catastrophic floods swept away precious lives, wiped out several homes and tore through infrastructure. I am hopeful that the three-bedroom pre-fabricated smart houses for which the foundation stone was laid today will help bring the lives of the affected families back on track,” the Lieutenant Governor said.


The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India) for its noble initiative.

“Since SDRF relief is insufficient, I had earlier requested HRDS India to rebuild 1,500 fully damaged houses across the UT under Operation Sindoor and in the aftermath of August floods, to which they had agreed. This initiative will provide huge relief to the affected families,” he said.

Each house will feature a concrete foundation and utilizing prefabricated technology, including fiber cement boards, powder-coated GI sheets, and a steel structural framework with C-channel sections. These materials have been selected for their strength, durability, and ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions, ensuring long-term resilience and suitability to the region’s environment. Every reconstructed unit will be developed as a “Smart House,” incorporating modern design elements for comfort, safety, and functionality.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor expressed his gratitude to all the emergency responders, district administration, Army, NDRF, SDRF, Police, armed forces, local community, youth and voluntary organizations for saving precious lives, evacuating Machail Mata devotees to safety and providing timely medical care.

“I must commend the profound resilience of the people of Chishoti. Nature has tested them severely, but this strong community met the challenge head-on,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed his commitment, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi for complete rehabilitation of the flood-affected families and meeting the development needs of the people of Kishtwar.

“In a boost to our efforts to provide modern infrastructure to Paddar Kishtwar, Government of India has sanctioned an Army Goodwill School and One Petrol Pump at Paddar,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He also announced that Border Roads Organisation (BRO) will reconstruct Atholi to Machail Mata Road and build a new bridge in Chishoti. He further said that all the black spots in Mobile Network Connection have been identified and land has been transferred to BSNL to set up new 4G towers.

During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with the local residents and listened to their issues and demands. He directed the District Administration to connect the youth with self-employment opportunities through Mission Yuva

The Lieutenant Governor said the ongoing works for the augmentation of facilities for the pilgrims at Machail Mata will be completed by the month of May, 2026. He also assured that the appropriate steps will be taken to meet the demand for construction of Yatri Niwas at Paddar.

A two-minute silence was observed in the memory of those who lost their lives in Chishoti on August,14, 2025.

Shri Sunil Sharma, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in J&K Legislative Assembly and MLA Paddar- Nagseni; Ms Shagun Parihar, Member of Legislative Assembly from Kishtwar; Shrimath Swami Atma Nambi, President, HRDS India; Dr Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Shridhar Patil, DIG DKR Range; Shri Pankaj Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar; Shri Aji Krishnan; Founder – Secretary and representatives of HRDS India; senior officials, prominent citizens and people from different walks of life attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.

Calls for effective, transparent utilisation of public funds

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 03: Minister for Education, Sakeena Itoo today chaired a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review the performance and functioning of School Education department across Jammu division.

The meeting was attended by Secretary School Education department, Ram Niwas Sharma; Project Director Samagra Shiksha, Bhawani Rakwal; Director School Education Jammu, Naseem Javid Chowdhary; Chief Education Officers of all districts of Jammu and other concerned officers of School Education department.

During the meeting, the Minister assessed the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes, infrastructure development projects, academic reforms, and digital learning initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education across government schools.

During the meeting, the Minister emphasized on the efficient and transparent utilisation of public funds to strengthen the education ecosystem. She stressed that every rupee allocated for education sector must be spent judiciously and with measurable outcomes.

She directed officers to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects, particularly those related to school infrastructure, ICT labs, teacher training, and learning enhancement programmes. She asked them to address bottlenecks on priority and submit regular progress reports to the department.

The Minister called for the adoption of transparent monitoring mechanisms and periodic audits to prevent fund lapses and ensure that benefits reach the grassroots level. She further instructed officers to strengthen community participation through School Management committees and promote accountability at every administrative tier.

Highlighting the government’s focus on inclusive and equitable education, the Minister also underscored the importance of bridging learning gaps, enhancing the teaching-learning process, and improving student learning outcomes, particularly in rural and far-flung areas.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to transforming the education sector, the Minister assured that the government would continue to support initiatives that empower teachers, modernize classrooms, and create a robust learning environment for all students.

“Education is the foundation of any progressive society. Transparent utilisation of funds and effective monitoring of schemes will ensure schools becoming centres of excellence,” the Minister stated.

While reviewing other aspects of the department, the Minister strictly instructed the CEOs that school children shouldn’t be sent to Government functions, particularly during peak academic and examination session, without prior approval and permission of respective Directors.

The Education Minister further asked the CEOs to take reviews in their respective districts from the Assembly Constituency level and prepare all data accordingly so that the MLAs are provided timely information. She also asked them to take MLAs on board while initiating any new developmental projects in their respective districts.



JAMMU, NOVEMBER 03: On the first day of opening of the Darbar Move at Civil Secretariat here, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma today conducted comprehensive inspection of all the offices functioning under his Ministry.

The Minister, accompanied by senior officers of the concerned departments, visited various sections and reviewed the working of the administrative units including the offices of FCS&CA, IT, Transport, and Youth Services & Sports. He took stock of the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of official business in the Secretariat and assessed the readiness of staff and infrastructure following the shift to the winter capital.

During the inspection, Satish Sharma interacted with officers and employees, enquired about their requirements, and instructed them to maintain the highest standards of discipline, punctuality, and efficiency. He emphasized on the importance of citizen-centric approach in governance, stating that our focus must always remain on prompt service delivery, accountability, and transparency in every aspect of administration.

He further directed the departmental heads to ensure effective coordination between field offices and the Secretariat so that public grievances are addressed in a time-bound manner.

The Minister also reviewed key ongoing initiatives under each department, particularly digital service expansion under the IT Department, consumer protection measures under FCS&CA, road safety awareness campaigns under the Transport Department, and sports development programs being implemented across Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to responsive and efficient administration, Satish Sharma said that the reopening of the Secretariat marks the beginning of another productive session of governance aimed at accelerating the pace of public welfare and infrastructure development. He called upon all officers to rededicate themselves to the mission of good governance and ensure that every government initiative reaches the grassroots level effectively.

The Minister expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made in various offices and assured that all necessary support will be extended to further strengthen departmental functioning.


CM Omar Abdullah lauds SBI’s gesture of solidarity, service beyond banking

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 3: A deputation of the State Bank of India (SBI) today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, and presented a cheque of 1.55 crore as a contribution to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

The delegation was led by Jayant Mani, Deputy General Manager (Business and Operations) and Controlling Head for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the SBI employees for their generous contribution, describing it as “a noble gesture of solidarity and service beyond banking.”

He said the donation reflects SBI’s continued commitment to social responsibility and its deep bond with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.


Urges candidates to remain informed

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 03. Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has notified revised date-sheet for Class 10th Annual/ Regular, 2025 (Oct-Nov session) for the remaining subjects.

The revision of date- sheet got necessitated due to Assembly Bye- polls in Budgam and Nagrota Assembly Segments scheduled on November 11.

As per the revised date- sheet, the Vocational Subjects have now been scheduled on November 6, followed by Science on November 13.

The examination for Urdu/ Hindi subjects has been scheduled on November 17 while Computer Science will now be held on November 19.

The English subject has been re-scheduled on November 20 and Home Science on November 23.

The examination will conclude on November 27 on which Painting/ Art and Drawing subjects are scheduled. In between, subjects with very small number of candidates like Music on November 25 and Additional/ Optional subjects including Kashmiri/ Dogri/ Bhoti/ Punjabi/ Arabic/ Urdu/ Hindi/ Persian/ Sanskrit will be held on November 24 while Social Science will be conducted on November 26.

The J&K BOSE has urged students to prepare for the examination as per the revised date-sheet.

The BOSE has exhorted Chief Education Officers, Heads of Institutions and invigilation staff to strictly adhere to revised date- sheet and ensure that candidates are informed about the new dates by all means of communication.