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Seeks coordinated efforts to tackle water, power challenges

KATHUA, APRIL 18: In light of the intensifying heat wave conditions, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas today chaired a crucial meeting to assess the preparation of departments to meet the challenges of summer season, with a focus on provisions made for adequate water and power supply in the district.

At the outset, the DC underlined the need for meticulous planning and coordinated execution to effectively meet the enhanced demand of water and electricity during the summer season. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to minimize public inconvenience amid soaring temperatures.

A detailed sub-division-wise review of water and power supply was conducted, with special attention given to areas identified as vulnerable due to prevailing weather patterns. Officials were directed to flag and prioritize critical areas for immediate intervention.

The meeting was informed that water levels in the Ranjit Sagar Dam Lake are comparatively low this season, which could affect the drinking water supply in Basohli and adjoining regions. Besides, the DC took stock of the water-deficit conditions in the kandi belt and hilly terrains of the district.

To bridge the supply gaps, it was decided that water tankers and trollies would be deployed in the vulnerable areas based on local requirements, ensuring timely delivery of drinking water.

The DC was also briefed about the progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), with over 10 schemes set to be commissioned by the end of this month, bringing much-needed relief to water-stressed regions.

In a citizen-centric move, Dr. Minhas announced the establishment of a 24x7 Combined Control Room/Helpline. The facility will serve as a unified platform for residents to register complaints related to water and electricity supply, as well as report forest fire incidents.

Besides, the DC directed the Executive Engineer Ground Water to prioritize the repair of non-functional hand pumps to augment local water accessibility.

The DFOs of all forest Ranges were directed to remain vigilant and proactive in responding to forest fire incidents. To support the watering of plantations under Social Forestry, the XEN PHE was instructed to ensure timely water supply through tankers and Trolleys.

Executive Engineer PDD was also directed to ensure round the clock availability of technical assistance in view of snag in power supply especially dedicated feeder set up for PHE Water Supply.

Dr. Minhas called upon all departments to maintain close coordination and work collectively to address public concerns swiftly and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life during the summer season.

The meeting was attended by ADDC, Surinder Mohan, ADC Vishawjeet Singh, CPO Ranjit Thakur, Executive Engineers of PHE, PDD, DFOs and officials from other concerned departments. 

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JAMMU, APRIL 18: Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Jammu and Kashmir celebrated World Heritage Day 2025 at Dogra Art Museum, Mubarak Mandi.

From the Year 1983, as declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), 18th April has been celebrated as World Heritage Day across the world.

The heritage day is observed to celebrate the diversity of our cultural heritage and the efforts required for the preservation of our tangible and intangible heritage. The theme of this year was “Heritage under Threat from Disasters and Conflicts”.

Dogra Art Museum has organized a special exhibition of Miniature Paintings of Jammu School for the event. A powerpoint presentation on various monuments of Jammu division was also shown to the visitors and students as a special attraction to the event.

The event started with the lighting of the Traditional Lamp by Member Legislative Assembly Jammu East Yudhveer Sethi and Curator Dogra Art Museum Jammu Mukul Magotra.

While appreciating the efforts of the Department for organizing the event, the MLA applauded the role of Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K Kuldeep Krishan Sidha and his team for the success of the event.

The Department has also organized special events at various historical places viz. Samba Fort, Hari Parbat Fort, S.P.S. Museum, Srinagar, etc.

The schools and colleges of Jammu have been invited to come to the Museum for familiarization and awareness about Dogra Art and Culture. A number of schools visited the Museum where they have shown keen interest in craft, objects and artefacts which are on display inside the Museum.

The school children were taken for a guided tour of various galleries of the Museum where they were made aware of history and significance of various art objects by well-trained guides. The event was curated by Curator, Dogra Art Museum, Jammu Mukul Magotra under the supervision of Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums K.K. Sidha.

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Orders speedy assessment of loss to public property

JAMMU, APRIL 18: Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar today convened a meeting to assess the damages caused due to Wind Storm and reviewed the status of restoration works.

The meeting attended by Managing Director JPDCL, Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation, Deputy Commissioners from Jammu Division, Chief Engineers of PDD, Jal Shakti, XEns and concerned officials apprised the sectors wise affect of Wind Storm and the damages to their infrastructure.

The Divisional Commissioner took stock of the district- wise damages suffered to power, Jal Shakti and Roads infrastructure, while seeking details from the respective Deputy Commissioners.

MD JPDCL, and Commissioner JMC, also apprised the Divisional Commissioner on the damages caused to Power infrastructure and public amenities infrastructure due to the wind storm and the restoration works thereof.

The Divisional Commissioner was also apprised about the works completed to restore the power infrastructure, water supply schemes and clearing of roads across the division.  It was informed that maximum restoration works, in terms of power and water supply, have been done and remaining will be completed by today evening and tomorrow. Chief Engineer PWD apprised that roads have been cleared of fallen trees and landslides triggered by the storm.

The Div Com directed the concerned officials to restore the power infrastructure for 100% supply to domestic areas by today evening and for agricultural lands by tomorrow. He called for war footing efforts by the ground staff of the power department.

The Divisional Commissioner further directed the Deputy Commissioners to closely monitor the restoration works and submit a comprehensive report of the damages and restoration by 7 pm today.

The Divisional Commissioner asked the concerned officials to expedite the repair of damages to public infrastructure and also assess the loss to public property and livestock to provide relief to affected persons from SDRF.

The Divisional Commissioner also asked for cleaning and desilting of drainage networks in Jammu City.

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 JAMMU, APRIL 18:  A five day photo exhibition titled “Trinity: A Group Show” featuring the works of five leading photographers begin today at Kala Kendra, Jammu.

The exhibition is being jointly organised by Kala Kendra Jammu and Aperture, the Jammu Photography Club, in the cherished memory of Chandan Bhadram Shastry, a legendary figure in the field of photography.

The exhibition showcased 45 exceptional works by renowned photographers; Chandan Sunder, Mohammad Anwar Al Nasir, Shishupal, Professor Ashok Kumar and Amarjeet Singh Jandhu, reflecting the diverse themes, artistic perspectives and technical brilliance.

Principal Secretary, Culture, B M Sharma inaugurated the exhibition.

Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra Jammu; R.K. Goyal, President, Aperture, the Photography Club and Professor Ashok Kumar graced the presidium.

Addressing the gathering, the Principal Secretary expressed deep appreciation for the powerful and evocative photographs on display. He commended the participating photographers for capturing the moments that reflect emotion, culture and storytelling through their lenses.

He also announced several cultural initiatives by the Department of Culture, including a new Cultural Award scheme to honour the contributions of photographers, painters, sculptors, authors and researchers. He also revealed plans to establish a dedicated Photography Gallery on the first floor of Kala Kendra, envisioned as a permanent platform for photographers to showcase their creativity.

In his welcome address, Mohammad Anwar Al Nasir introduced the concept behind “The Trinity: A Group Show”. He highlighted the ongoing efforts and initiatives of Aperture in promoting photography as an art form in the region.

Dr. Javaid Rahi, in his remarks, stated that the main objective of the exhibition is to encourage amateur photographers and enthusiasts to learn and grow through such curated experiences. He informed that live demonstrations on camera handling, framing angles, image mixing and creative compositions would be held during the exhibition, offering valuable learning for the photography lovers.

On the occasion, Aperture honoured several eminent photographers for their significant contribution. These included R.K. Goyal, Afzal Shah, Channi Anand, Surjit Singh, Rakesh Bakshi, Rajinder Kitchloo, Pawan Chowdhary, Ashwani Saberwal and Parveen Sharma.

The event was also attended by distinguished guests, artists including Balwant Thakur, Dr. Lalit Gupta, K.B. Jandial, Dr. Raj Kumar, O.P. Sharma, Jang S. Verman, Baljeet Raina, S. Bajral and others.

The exhibition will remain open in all the galleries of Kala Kendra till 22nd April.

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JAMMU, APRIL 18: Reiterating the commitment of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) to maintain a neat and clean city, Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav stated that officers, officials from various departments, and sanitation workers are working tirelessly to uphold this mission.

In accordance with the Commissioner's directions, two teams—comprising the concerned Deputy Commissioners, Sanjay Badyal and Lal Chand, Chief Transport Officers (CTOs), Dharamveer Singh and Talat Ahmad, Transport Officers (TOs), and enforcement staff were constituted to assess the on-ground situation in the aftermath of the recent heavy rain and storm. These teams conducted inspections across various areas in the South and North Zones, including Gandhi Nagar.

The diligent efforts of the CTO section, almost all major roads have been cleared of fallen trees and obstructions. However, some scattered garbage and tree branches remain in a few areas. Men and machinery are already on the job to ensure their swift removal.

Additionally, manual sweeping and lifting of small refuse heaps lying along footpaths is required. Sanitation workers have been actively engaged in sweeping operations and clearing the refuse to restore cleanliness.

Appreciating the relentless dedication of field staff and sanitation workers, the Commissioner commended their round-the-clock efforts to restore normalcy. He also urged the citizens of Jammu to extend their cooperation to JMC teams and promptly report any unattended areas for timely action.

The Jammu Municipal Corporation remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety, cleanliness, and the overall well-being of the city’s residents.

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 ADGP (Director) rolls out activity plan for Fire Safety Week

JAMMU, APRIL 14: The Fire and Emergency Services Department today observed Fire Service Day, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. A solemn ceremony was held here at Fire & Emergency Services Headquarters Gandhi Nagar, where officers and jawans paid homage to the martyrs of the 1944 Bombay Dock Explosion and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety.  

The observance began with a solemn wreath laying ceremony at the Martyrs’ Memorial, where the Director of Fire and Emergency Services, along with senior officers and jawans, paid floral tributes to the brave firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Two minutes silence was observed in their honour, and the ceremonial salute was offered as a mark of respect. The event served as a poignant reminder of the selfless courage and sacrifice made by fire service personnel in protecting lives and property, often at great personal risk.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director of Fire and Emergency Services J&K (ADGP) Alok Kumar highlighted the department’s growing capabilities, rapid response readiness, and ongoing modernization efforts. “We are proud to say that our force is not only ready for prompt and quick response in case of any emergency with advanced equipment and training but also deeply committed to promote a culture of fire safety across all sectors of society,” the Director stated.

Alok Kumar further highlighted the department’s focused initiative regarding fire safety public awareness programmes being conducted regularly and continuously in educational, healthcare institutions, industrial units and other establishments under “Har Ghar Fire Fighter” programme since August 2022 throughout the UT of J&K.


The programmes aim to educate students, teachers, medical staff, and support personnel on fire prevention, safe evacuation procedures, and first aid response actions in case of a fire to act as first responders in case of domestic fires. The Director informed that under this programme the department, upto ending March 2025, has covered 3949 educational institutions, 1057 health institutions, 2555 other establishments by conducting 7551 public awareness programmes in which 8.23 lac persons have been given training of fire prevention, protection and first aid firefighting. 

This year’s theme, “Unite to Ignite a Fire Safe India,” emphasizes collective responsibility and community involvement in fire prevention. As part of the Fire Service Week (14–20 April), the department launched several public engagement initiatives, including, the release of a fire safety documentary showcasing real-life firefighting missions and the role of emergency services, release of posters, banners and handbills for public awareness,   action plan for   awareness lectures, essay writing, painting competitions, health checkups for jawans and public and medical first aid training programme.

The Director urged citizens to partner with the department in building a fire-safe India by practicing basic safety measures, reporting hazards promptly, and participating in awareness activities. “Our strength lies in unity. Together, we can prevent fires before they start,” he added.

The Fire and Emergency Services remains committed to its mission—to save lives, protect property, and serve with honour under the motto “We Serve to SAVE”.

The Fire Service Day was also observed at Fire & Emergency Range Headquarters Srinagar and all Command /District Headquarters where all the Command Officers presided over the function and paid rich floral tributes to the martyrs.

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Vice Chairperson DDC Calls for emulating Baba Saheb’s Ideals

           UDHAMPUR, APRIL 14: Ambedkar Jayanti was today celebrated with full fervour and enthusiasm at the Community Hall in Dehma. The event witnessed a vibrant gathering of locals to pay tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar.

Speaking at the function, Vice Chairperson District Development Council Udhampur Juhi Manhas Pathania called for emulating the philosophy and core ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar, who laid the foundation of social justice and equity in India.

She emphasized Dr. Ambedkar’s visionary outlook on land reforms and economic restructuring in independent India. “His thoughts formed the bedrock of a just and equitable society — ideas that continue to inspire generations,” she said. While acknowledging that certain ideas could not be fully implemented due to various constraints, she noted that they are still deeply relevant across political, social, and economic spheres.

“It is time we realign with his vision. Dr. Ambedkar was a champion of the poor and underprivileged. His thoughts are more relevant than ever, even after nearly 70 years,” she added, appreciating the Centre Government’s commitment to carrying forward his legacy through inclusive development programs.

The event featured cultural performances and tributes to Dr. Ambedkar. A large number of locals gathered to honour the legacy of the great social reformer.

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JAMMU, APRIL 14: To commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, NSS Units of Government College for Women, Parade Ground, in collaboration with the Equal Opportunity Cell and the Department of Political Science, organized a series of impactful academic and awareness activities from April 10 to 14, 2025.

The five-day program included the screening of the film "Jai Bhim" in the college auditorium, which powerfully portrayed themes of justice, dignity, and constitutional values. On the following day, students and faculty participated in a Preamble Pledge Ceremony, reaffirming their commitment to uphold the ideals of the Indian Constitution.

A major highlight of the observance was an invited lecture on “Ambedkar and the Constitution” delivered by Dr.Sushil Kamble, Assistant Professor of Public Policy and Public Administration, Central University of Jammu. Dr. Kamble shared deep insights into Dr. Ambedkar’s role as a visionary leader and chief architect of the Constitution of India.

The concluding day featured a Pad Yatra, symbolizing a march for social justice, which ended with a floral tribute at the statue of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. A total of 100 NSS volunteers participated in the activities with dedication and enthusiasm under the guidance of NSS Programme Officers — Dr. Gurpreet Kour, Prof. Anuradha Kalsi, Dr. Atiya Syed.

The event series was successfully organized with support of Prof. Renu Angurana, Convener, Equal Opportunity Cell, and Prof Jasneet Kour, Head, Department of Political Science. The others members of Equal Opportunity cell included Prof RenuBala, Prof Usha Devi, Prof Tishu Devi, Prof Shakeel Ahmad.

Dr. Ravender K. Tickoo, Principal of the College, addressed the students and volunteers, emphasizing the timeless relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals and inspiring the youth to uphold values of equality, liberty, and social justice.

The program proved to be a meaningful tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Ambedkar and reinforced the importance of constitutional literacy and civic responsibility among students.

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Flags off bus service from Kalakot to Jammu via Nowshera

JAMMU, APRIL 14: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today held a public darbar in village Lam Nowshera to listen to the grievances and genuine concerns of the general public.

The interactive session witnessed a significant turnout of people from various walks of life, highlighting issues ranging from infrastructure development to basic amenities

The Dy CM patiently heard the concerns of the attendees and assured them of swift redressal.


 While emphasising the unwavering commitment of the government to address the pressing issues faced by the common people, Surinder Choudhary remarked that the government has always been at the forefront of championing the cause of the people. He asserted that under the leadership of CM Omar Abdullah, the government is dedicated to deliver effective governance and ensuring that public grievances are addressed on priority.

Surinder Choudhary also highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the government, including measures to improve road connectivity, strengthen the healthcare system and promote educational opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir.


The Dy CM exhorted that public darbar is not just a platform to voice grievances but a reflection of our commitment to participatory governance. “We believe in creating direct channels of communication between the government and the public to foster trust and accountability," he added.

Earlier, reaffirming government's commitment towards hassle free connectivity to the public, the Dy CM flagged off a bus service from Kalakot to Jammu via Nowshera.

He said that it was long pending demand of local residents and expressed satisfaction that Government is proficient to fulfil their aspirations.

Surinder Choudhary exhorted that the government is committed to improve transportation in J&K, especially far flung and border areas with the aim to enhance mass mobility, providing increased safety and sustainability along with greater access and convenience for commuters.

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UDHAMPUR, APRIL 14: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today visited the Press Club Udhampur and had an exclusive interactive session with the media persons.

The Minister, while talking to the media members, emphasised the crucial role of journalism in highlighting the genuine developmental and social issues affecting the people. He urged the media fraternity to uphold the ethics and principles of journalism, ensuring that the voices of the marginalised and underprivileged are heard.  He appreciated media's efforts in bringing attention to critical issues and encouraged them to continue their watchdog role in promoting transparency and accountability in governance.


Rana stressed the significance of adhering to journalistic ethics while reporting on sensitive issues. He encouraged the media persons to focus on developmental and social issues that impact the lives of ordinary citizens. He reaffirmed the government's commitment towards addressing the public grievances promptly and efficiently.


Sumit Sharma, President and Ashish Dutt, General Secretary, along with other members, thanked the Minister for accepting their invitation. They appreciated his insights and commitment towards transparency in governance.

The interaction served as a platform for meaningful dialogue between the Minister and the media fraternity, highlighting the importance of collaboration in promoting the welfare of the people.

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Recalls Baba Saheb's contribution in drafting Indian Constitution

JAMMU, APRIL 14:  Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today attended two programs at village Dabber and Naniyal (Nowshera), organised to observe the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Paying homage to the legend, the Dy CM described him as one of India’s foremost politicians, jurists and social reformers.

The Dy CM extended greetings to the people and remarked that this day holds great significance in honouring the remarkable contributions of Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to our nation, particularly in the field of social justice, equality, and the drafting of the Indian Constitution.


 He said that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar dedicated his life to the fight against social discrimination and worked tirelessly to secure equal rights for women, laborers and marginalized communities. His vision laid the foundation for a just and inclusive society, as reflected in the Constitution of India, which he was instrumental in drafting, he added.


The Dy CM added that Ambedkar believed in equality for every citizen, no matter which caste, religion or community they belonged to and government is committed to build J&K of Ambedkar's dreams.

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KUPWARA, APRIL 13: On the directions of District Administration Kupwara, the first phase of the Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign was successfully launched across various schools in the district. 

 The campaign inaugurated by Nodal Officer IEC Campaign at Govt. Boys Higher Secondary School Handwara, focused on spreading awareness about the ill effects of drug abuse among students.

Resource persons from different departments conducted interactive sessions and educational talks, highlighting the physical, psychological, and social consequences of substance abuse. 

The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from over 1500 students, along with members of the civil society, school staff and local stakeholders.

The campaign is a part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to create a drug-free environment and instill healthy lifestyle choices among the youth. 

Further phases of the campaign will continue as per schedule.

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SRINAGAR, APRIL 13: The 52nd Annual National Conference of the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine (IAPSMCON 2025) concluded today here, marking the successful culmination of a three-day event.

The conference, organized by the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine of Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar brought together public health experts and professionals from across India

The event, held from April 11 to 13, saw enthusiastic participation from more than 1,270 delegates, along with 32 co-delegates from all 32 states and Union Territories, including remote regions such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

The national level conference was inaugurated by Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah in a ceremonial opening that set the tone for an enriching academic discourse. 

He was joined by several key dignitaries, including Dr. Annarao Kulkarni, National President of IAPSM; Dr. Purushottam Giri, Secretary General of IAPSM; Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal of GMC Srinagar and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Allied Medical Specialties, University of Kashmir; Prof. (Dr.) S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Head of the Department of Community Medicine and Conference Chairman; and Dr. Inaamul Haq, Associate Professor and Organizing Secretary of IAPSMCON 2025.

In his keynote address, Dr. Shah emphasized the importance of integrative healthcare approaches, advocating for the convergence of preventive and curative strategies to build resilient and inclusive health systems. His remarks highlighted the evolving nature of healthcare, calling for a unified vision that places public health at the heart of national development.

Prof. (Dr.) Iffat underlined the critical role played by public health in guiding policy and ensuring community welfare. She commended the efforts of GMC Srinagar in advancing the cause of preventive medicine and fostering a culture of academic excellence and community service.

A poignant moment of the conference came with the posthumous conferment of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the late Prof. Muneer Ahmad Masoodi, a former Head of the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar. His legacy was honored through the presence of Ms. Zeenat Masoodi, who accepted the award on his behalf.

The academic program commenced with six intensive pre-conference workshops on April 10 at GMC Srinagar, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the conference’s central theme, “Integrative Approaches for Comprehensive Care in One Health”, resonating with the slogan “One Nation, One Health, One World.” 

Over the subsequent days, the event transformed into a vibrant academic forum featuring a remarkable range of sessions, including 11 plenary discussions and 11 keynote addresses from distinguished national and international public health leaders.

Scientific engagement was at the forefront of the conference, with a total of 561 presentations spanning award papers, oral presentations, and posters. These sessions unfolded across six parallel venues—five physical halls and one virtual—with select hybrid sessions held in the main auditorium. 

Among the many highlights was the presence of Prof. B.N. Gangadhar, President of the National Medical Commission (NMC), who engaged in critical discussions with health professionals and shared insights on much-needed reforms in the healthcare system and medical education landscape.

The closing ceremony, held on today, was graced by Prof. Sachidananda Mohanty, Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora, who served as the chief guest. In his address, he reaffirmed the indispensable role of public health in nation-building and called for sustained investment in community health and preventive strategies. 

Joining him at the valedictory function were Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmad, Director General of the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine, as guest of honour, along with senior faculty members, department heads, and administrative officers from GMC Srinagar and IAPSM.

As IAPSMCON 2025 came to a close, it left behind a strong message of collaboration, innovation, and a unified commitment to fortifying the future of preventive and social medicine in India. The conference not only celebrated the achievements of the past but also laid a firm foundation for addressing the emerging challenges of healthcare through integrative and inclusive solutions.

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