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Says Govt will take viewpoint of every section of society to arrive at an amicable solution where everyone’s interest is safeguarded

SRINAGAR, APRIL 06: The three member Cabinet Sub-Committee on reservation rules under the chairmanship of Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, interacted with several public delegations and students regarding their grievances on reservation rules at SKICC here today.

Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana and Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma (members of Sub-committee); Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Sanjeev Verma; Commissioner Secretary, GAD, M Raju; Secretary Law, Achal Sethi and senior officers from General Administration department and Social Welfare department also participated in the meeting.

During the interaction, the delegations presented their view point before the Sub-committee regarding existing reservation policy.

While examining their grievances and issues regarding reservation rules, the Sub-Committee assured them that the government will take viewpoint of every section of society to arrive at an amicable solution where everyone’s interest is safeguarded.

The Sub-Committee further said that they are open for discussions with everyone in order to reach cordial solution.

The Sub-Committee added that they will present its report within the given time frame of six months to the council of ministers headed by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah.

Pertinently, the Cabinet Sub-Committee was constituted by the Omar Abdullah led government after assuming power to look into grievances projected by several section of aspirants against the existing reservation rules.

 
Over 1200 athletes from 150 Universities participating

SRINAGAR, APRIL 04: Minister for Food Civil Supply & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, Science and Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today declared open the “All India University Powerlifting Championship 2025” at University of Kashmir.

The event is being organised by the University of Kashmir in collaboration with the Association of Indian Universities.  More than 1200 best athletes from around 150 Universities from across India are participating in the tournament.

Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir Professor Nilofer Khan presided over the event, while VC CUK Professor Ravinder Nath, VC IUST, Professor Shakeel A. Romshoo and VC CUK Professor Mohammad Mubeen were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister asserted that this championship will set a new benchmark in promoting inclusivity, equality and sports excellence in J&K. He exhorted that presence of so many athletes reflects the growing enthusiasm, commitment and discipline of our youth towards fitness and competitive sports.

The Minister emphasized that Powerlifting is not just a physical test, but, a symbol of inner resilience, mental grit and determination. "It teaches us that even the heaviest challenges can be lifted with consistent efforts and perseverance", he added.

The Minister said that the government believes in transformative power of sports in shaping character, instilling discipline and fostering excellence. He reiterated that J&K has witnessed a huge resurgence in sports in recent past and the government under the leadership of Chief Minister is committed to strengthen the sports ecosystem by providing facilities at grassroots level to elite level training so that our youth can shine on global platforms.

The Minister said that initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India Movement, National School Games and University level championships are paving the way for stronger, healthier and more confident India.

Satish Sharma added that in this era of technology and digital transformation, sports play a vital role in keeping us physically and mentally strong and also keep our youth away from various social ills.

The Minister commended the University of Kashmir for organising this grand event. He said that hosting national level championships is not only a matter of pride but also a testament to the University's determination in promoting youth engagement, sportsmanship and national integrity.

 

This recognition will provide legal protection against counterfeit products, lead to artisans’ welfare

SRINAGAR, APRIL 03: In a landmark achievement securing the unique craftsmanship of artisans, 8 more traditional products of Kashmir have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) certificates by GI Registry, Chennai, based on their sources of origin.

GI registration provides legal protection against counterfeit products, prevents unauthorized use, boosts exports, and promotes economic prosperity for producers of goods associated with a specific geographical territory. 

Giving details, a spokesman from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, today stated that Kashmir Namda, Kashmir Gabba, Kashmir Willow Bat, Kashmir Tweed, Crewel, Kashmir Chain Stitch, Shikara and Wagguv have secured GI registration. With this, he said, the total number of GI registered crafts has reached 15, with 07 crafts having already been granted GI registration.


Highlighting the benefits of the registration, the spokesman exuded confidence that these 8 new products will provide much needed boost to exports and gain greater access in international markets, leading to increased demand. “The registration, followed by GI labelling, will also help prevent unauthorised use, ensuring consumers get access to genuine products,” he added.

Referring to the stiff challenges faced by the department over a period of three years, the spokesman highlighted various steps taken for earning GI registration. “After filing of applications online, the department had to go through the onerous task of preliminary scrutiny and examination of the applications filed, followed by issuance of show-cause notices and publication in GI Journal. Only after no objections were received, the GI registration was granted by Geographical Indication (GI) Registry Chennai, in favour of the 8 new products,” he explained.

The spokesman further stated that the department shall now shift focus to 6 more crafts for GI registration, which shall go a long way in revival of certain lost crafts and also boost their saleability in niche global markets. These include Copperware (Kandkari), Silverware, Houseboat, Tapestry, Kashmir Tilla and Aari Stapple Embroidery. 

Identifying testing and QR labelling as a corollary to the GI registration of unique Kashmir products, the spokesman said the department has already submitted proposals for upgradation of its testing labs in IICT, CDI and Quality Control Division.

“In view of the increased demand for GI testing and labelling, the department shall upgrade its testing labs by acquiring state-of-the-art equipment like OFDA (Optical Fibre Diameter Analyzer), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) and high-resolution Digital Microscopes, which shall ensure genuineness of the products tested and weeding out sale of machine-made counterfeit products, which are sold in the garb of hand-made products,” he added.


 SRINAGAR, APRIL 03:  Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, inaugurated the Royal Health and Wellness Centre at Poloview here today.

Speaking after the inauguration ceremony, the Speaker emphasized on the importance of accessible and innovative healthcare solutions. He lauded the initiative for bringing advanced wellness practices to the region. He expressed hope that the Centre would serve as a significant step towards holistic health improvement for the community.

On the occasion, Owner of the Royal Health and Wellness Centre, Srinagar, Dr. Hamid Sofi, briefed the Speaker about the facilities being provided at the Centre.

Pertinently, the newly launched facility aims to provide advanced healthcare and wellness services to the patients, enhancing holistic well-being in the region.

The Centre has been equipped to offer modern medical services, diagnostics and specialized wellness programs, integrating traditional therapeutic techniques with contemporary healthcare solutions to cater to the diverse health needs of the community. One of the key highlights of the Centre is its range of therapeutic services, including cupping therapy and aromatherapy.

The launch of the Royal Health and Wellness Centre marks a milestone in strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Srinagar, offering the residents a dedicated space for preventive and therapeutic wellness services.

 Indigenous Tulip Cultivation gains momentum, aim is to reduce Import Dependency

PULWAMA, APRIL 02: In a significant step towards revitalizing the floriculture sector in the district, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Field Station Bonera, Pulwama organized a grand Tulip Show today.

CSIR-IIIM has initiated a strategic programme for indigenous tulip bulb production under the overall supervision and mentorship of Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister for Science and Technology and Minister of Earth Sciences.

As part of this strategic intervention, over one lakh tulip bulbs have been successfully cultivated on 12 kanals of land at the Field Station. The programme is aimed at reducing import dependency, promoting domestic tulip cultivation and fostering an agritech ecosystem.

The Field Station was opened to the public today, allowing visitors to witness the breathtaking bloom of tulips. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with a large number of people, including children and students, attending the festival.

The event showcased breathtaking displays of tulips in full bloom, offering a glimpse into the region’s floricultural potential and the success of indigenous innovation.

This step aligns with the national mission of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, reducing reliance on imported bulbs while creating economic opportunities for local farmers," said a scientist from CSIR-IIIM.

CSIR-IIIM officials emphasized the importance of scientific intervention and innovation in agriculture, stating that this initiative will pave the way for self-sufficiency in tulip production, benefiting both local farmers and the economy at large.

The initiative is expected to strengthen the floriculture industry, providing new opportunities for research, commercial cultivation and employment generation in the sector.

 


SRINAGAR, APRIL 02: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today chaired a meeting to review the performance and functioning of Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE).

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Education and Chairman JKBOSE, Shantamanu; Director School Education Jammu /Kashmir, Special Secretary School Education department, Secretary JKBOSE and other concerned officers.

The Minister evaluated key operational aspects of JKBOSE like examination processes, curriculum implementation and other IT interventions. She emphasized on strengthening board’s infrastructure and streamlining administrative mechanisms to ensure smooth academic operations and other related activities of the board. She urged the JKBOSE to incorporate advanced technological solutions for better accessibility and efficiency in the working of Board. She also underlined the necessity of timely syllabus updates, improved teacher training programs and student-centric policies to meet the evolving educational needs.

She directed the officers to declare the results of 10th, 11th and 12th classes by the end of this month so that they can join next classes without loss of any academic activities.

She called upon both the Directors to collaborate with JKBOSE for holistic development of education sector across J&K.

Highlighting the need for robust and student-friendly educational framework across Jammu and Kashmir, Sakeena Itoo emphasized on continuous stakeholder engagement and proactive measures to uplift academic standards across the region.

While reviewing other measures of JKBOSE, including Equitable and Inclusive Education facility for Divyang and Children With Special Needs (CWSN), the Minister called upon both the Directors and JKBOSE authorities to create maximum awareness among these specially abled students about benefits being provided to them.

These included flexibility in academics and assessment, exemption in exam fee for CWSN with 40% or more disability of permanent nature, relaxation of 5% in pass percentage in 10th to 12th class Board examination and others. She asked them to organise regular awareness camps, involving PRIs and other tools like mass media for maximising awareness among the target group.

During the meeting, Secretary JKBOSE gave a detailed presentation on functioning of the board. She also informed the Minister about various IT interventions launched by the board for facilitation of students.

 


DC Shopian inaugurates plantation drive, emphasizes importance of plantation

Shopian, March 21: In observance of World Forest Day, a mega plantation drive was organized today at Zawoora by Forest Division Shopian under the leadership of the Divisional Forest Officer, Abid Ali Lone.

The Plantation Drive was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Shishir Gupta who on the occasion appreciated the significance of conducting massive afforestation drives in the district.

DC impressed upon all residents of the district to commit to plantation activities this season and contribute towards environmental sustainability along with reaping economic benefits.

The event witnessed active participation from the DFO Shopian, Deputy Director, FPF Shopian, Range Officer Shopian, and other officials from the Forest Department.

The plantation drive aimed to enhance green cover and promote environmental conservation in the area.The Forest Department has planted 3.6  lakhs trees across the district this year for afforestation purposes to enhance the green cover.

Addressing the gathering, officials emphasized the critical role of afforestation in combating climate change and maintaining ecological balance.

 


KULGAM, MARCH 18: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo and Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani today visited Chandain Pajan village of Kulgam and met the family of deceased brothers, Showkat Ahmad Bajad and Riyaz Ahmad Bajad, who were found dead after being missing for around a month.

MLAs; Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Mir, Peerzada Feroze Ahmad Shah and Showkat Ahmad Ganie were also present on the occasion.

Expressing deep sorrow and grief over the loss, the Deputy Chief Minister and other dignitaries extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the government’s unwavering support during this difficult time.

The Deputy Chief Minister, while interacting with the members of the bereaved family, said that a thorough and transparent investigation will be initiated to uncover the truth behind the incident. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards ensuring justice, holding the responsible accountable.

 Sakeena Itoo prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and expressed solidarity with the family in this time of grief.

“We are here to share your sorrow and the government stands firmly with you during this difficult time”, she said.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani and other members echoed the similar sentiments.


 Pay rich tributes to former JKLA Speaker on his 31st death anniversary

Govt committed to deliver on promises, ensuring every citizen benefits from development initiatives: Dy CM

KULGAM, MARCH 18: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, today reaffirmed the government's commitment towards fulfilling all its promises, emphasizing that development projects and welfare initiatives remain a top priority of the present dispensation.

The Deputy Chief Minister stated this while addressing a function held at D H Pora Kulgam to commemorate the 31st death anniversary of former Speaker of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly (JKLA), Wali Mohd Itoo.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that the government is working tirelessly to ensure progress in key sectors like infrastructure, employment, healthcare and education and other sectors. He assured the public that every effort is being made to accelerate ongoing projects and implement schemes and programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens.


“The trust of the people is our biggest responsibility, we are fully committed towards delivering on our promises and ensuring that every citizen benefits from government initiatives,” he stated.

 The Deputy Chief Minister also interacted with the locals, listened to their concerns and assured them of swift action on pressing issues.

“The government remains focused on inclusive growth and will continue to engage with the public to address their needs effectively”, he said.

He also directed the concerned officers to frame DPR for construction of a Rest house at D H Pora.

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, also paid rich tributes to former Speaker and her father Wali Mohammad Itoo, acknowledging his remarkable contributions towards welfare and development of people of Jammu and Kashmir.

 Remembering him as a visionary leader, she emphasized his relentless efforts in improving governance, strengthening democratic values and working for the upliftment of society. She reiterated that the Omar Abdullah led government remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of the people. “We are taking every necessary step to ensure inclusive development and progress. Our government is dedicated towards addressing the needs of the people and fulfilling their aspirations,” she added.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, in his address, paid rich tributes to former Speaker, Wali Mohammad Itoo, acknowledging his remarkable contributions towards welfare and development of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the late leader’s tireless efforts in uplifting the region, particularly his work in strengthening democratic values and improving public infrastructure. “Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo dedicated his life to the service of the people. His vision for progress and his contributions to governance will always be remembered,” he said.

MLAs Abdul Majjed Larmi, Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Mir, Peerzada Feroze Ahmad Shah and Showkat Ahmad Ganie also paid tributes to the late leader. They highlighted his immense contributions towards development of the region and praised his dedication to public service and his role in strengthening democratic institutions.

 


ANANTNAG, MARCH 16: In a recent crackdown, acting on specific intelligence input, the enforcement team South Kashmir laid a special Naka on intervening night of 14th & 15th March 2025 and intercepted 02 vehicles carrying battery scrap and imposed penalties to the tune of Rs 6.31 Lakh under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime on taxpayers involved in the trading and transportation of battery scrap without proper GST documentation and compliance.

The GST authorities have noted an increasing trend of battery scrap transactions being conducted without proper invoicing, registration, or the payment of applicable taxes. Under GST law, any supply of goods, including battery scrap, must be accurately documented, taxed, and reported. Failing to comply with these obligations not only breaches GST regulations but also creates significant risks for the environment and public health.

Businesses engaged in the sale, purchase, and recycling of battery scrap are reminded that they must be properly registered under GST and comply with all tax reporting requirements. These measures aim to ensure transparency, accountability, healthy competition among taxpayers and also the proper management of hazardous materials in line with environmental and health regulations.

The department urges all traders, recyclers, and transporters of battery scrap to review their GST compliance status and rectify any discrepancies. Failing to do so may result in further penalties and a review of their operations.

For further information or to clarify GST-related queries, affected businesses are encouraged to contact the GST department or visit the official government website for more details on how to stay compliant.

The enforcement drive was carried out by a team of STOs/Inspectors/Sub Inspectors/Guards in supervision of Anil Kumar Chandail, Deputy Commissioner, Enforcement South Kashmir under the guidance of  P.K. Bhat Commissioner, State Taxes J&K, and Parvez A Raina Addl Commissioner State Taxes, Kashmir.

 


BUDGAM, MARCH 14: In a significant move, as part of Calendar of activities, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam, under the aegis of J&K Legal Services Authority today organized an awareness programme on Bail & Legal aid for under trial Convicted and other prisoners at Central Jail Srinagar.

The programme was also held in consonance with the judgment dated:18-02-2025 passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Suo Motu writ petition number 04 of 2021 titled IN RE: Delay in release of convicts after granting of bail with SLP (crl) No.529 of 2021

The awareness session, organised under the guidance of Hon’ble Justice Atul Sreedharan Executive Chairman J&K Legal Services authority and Shazia Tabassum, Member Secretary of J&K Legal Services authority was held under the chairmanship of O.P.Bhagat, Chairman DLSA (Pr.Distt.& Sessions Judge) Budgam and supervision of Nusrat Ali Hakak, Secretary DLSA Budgam, who attended and monitored the said programme personally.

On the occasion Legal aid defense counsels of DLSA Budgam Shahrooq Bhat and Ab Rouf Parray spoke on the subject and apprised the under trial prisoners, convicts, jail inmates etc, about ways and means of obtaining free and competent Legal aid from Legal Services institutions for defending their cases at various Levels  free of cost. They also threw light on S.432 crpc and section 473 of BNSS etc.

They also deliberated upon the different types of bails pertaining to different categories/nature of cases and raised awareness among the inmates regarding the benefits that can be availed in light of the said Supreme Court judgment.

On the occasion, Secretary DLSA Budgam gave a presidential address in which she briefed the inmates about the services and schemes of DLSA meant for them and also imparted a wide range of awareness amongst them regarding the legal provisions etc. which they can get help from.

The programme witnessed the active participation of Incharge Superintendent Central Jail Srinagar, Shahbaz Hussain; officials of Prison Legal aid Clinic and PLVs existing at Central jail Srinagar, police personnel, jail inmates, PLVs of DLSA Budgam etc.


 SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, a series of awareness programmes on drug de-addiction was organized by District Administration Srinagar in collaboration with District Social Welfare Office at Fakir Gujri-A and Fakir Gujri-B here today.

During the programme, the Resource persons highlighted the harmful effects of drugs on individuals, families, and society at large. They urged the public to raise awareness about the detrimental impacts of drugs and remain vigilant against those involved in illegal drug trade.

The participants unanimously called for widespread awareness efforts, emphasizing the need to be cautious of individuals engaged in such illegal activities.

On the occasion, the measures needed to be undertaken for the eradication of drug menace from the society were also underlined. The special focus was laid on saving youth, the most vulnerable age group with regard to drug menace from the harmful effects of its use.

Other Speakers on the occasion said that drug addiction is an issue of grave concern, especially among the younger generation and has very ill effects not only on the individual concerned but on the society as a whole.

The programme was attended by Officers of Social Welfare, Police, Education and other Departments.

 


KUPWARA, MARCH 14: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today inaugurated the much-awaited Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (RRR) Centre at the Municipal Council Office Kupwara. 

The inauguration marks a significant step towards promoting environmental sustainability and waste management in the district.

DDC Member Sogam, Executive Officer MC Kupwara, President Traders Federation Kupwara, President Transport Association Kupwara and large number of employees of Municipality were present on the occasion.

RRR Centre is aimed to promote the act of kindness where people will deposit their used clothes, discarded household items and other charitable things which will help other people especially poor and destitute. The aim is to reduce the wastage of resources by the people by recycling the used things for the people in need.

Speaking at the occasion, DC appreciated the initiative of the Municipal Committee and said that it is a noble and eco-friendly concept aimed to help the poor people by donating used items which will be recycled. 

She appealed the people to make the initiative vibrant by donating their surplus things including used clothes, household items and other discarded stuff to the RRR Centre which will be useful for the people in need.


 Bid evaluation process for additional Gynae block at L.D. Hospital to conclude soon

SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: Chief Executive Officer, J&KERA/JTFRP, Muhammad Aijaz Asad, has  asked the Project Implementation Unit to expedite the bid evaluation process for construction of additional Gynae block at Lal Ded hospital, Srinagar, being constructed under the World Bank funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP).

The CEO was chairing a meeting held at civil secretariat  to review the progress on World Bank funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project.

He was informed that 200 sub-projects out of the total of 213 sub-projects taken up for execution under JTFRP have been completed till date with an overall expenditure of Rs 1527 crore.

 Sajad Naqeeb, Chief Engineer PWD (R&B Central), while giving details about the progress on construction of additional Gynae/Infertility/Oncology block at Lal Ded Hospital, being constructed under JTFRP, said that the evaluation of technical bids is under process and is expected to be completed shortly for submitting to World Bank for approval.

The CEO asked the Chief Engineer to expedite the bid evaluation process for the prestigious health sector project.

Susheel Kumar, Director Technical JTFRP/Chief Engineer, PWD (R&B North), informed that work on 4 bridges in North Kashmir, namely Wahdina, Waza Mohalla, Wagoora and Shrakwara has been allotted and contractor has already started procurement of material on Wahdina bridge. He added that work on all the 4 bridges is expected to be completed by December, 2025. He also informed that work on construction of Trikolabal bridge in Pattan is underway and work on the sub-project is expected to be completed by April, 2025.

Giving details about progress on construction of Emergency Operations Centre at Ompura, being constructed by J&KERA under JTFRP, it was informed that work on Dormitory building has been completed and the contractor has initiated process for procurement of various electromechanical equipments.

The CEO directed that contractor be asked to submit the procurement status of equipment. He asked the engineers to devise a strategy for expediting pace of  work on the sub-project to ensure its completion at an earliest.

Vinod Kumar, Chief Engineer, PWD (R&B South), while giving details of  progress on construction of Trenz bridge, informed that work on the 3 spans has already been completed while work on other spans is in process. The work on the bridge will be completed by June, 2025, he added.

Sajad Kawoosa, Superintendent Engineer, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, informed that work on upgradation of 45 Dewatering stations in Srinagar city has been completed and made functional along with installation of SCADA system.

The CEO asked the SMC to formally close the project and submit utilisation certificate at an earliest.

Ghulam Rasool, Director J&KERA, Jammu, informed that more than 95% progress has been achieved on construction of Ghulati- Shahdra Sharief Road with laying of bituminous remaining to be laid for only 300 metre which will be done once weather permits while as  work on road markings, signages is underway.

The meeting was also attended by Narinder Kumar, S.E (PWD) (R&B Central), Dr. Sajad Wani, Chief Accounts Officer, Senior officers of Health and Medical Education, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, PWD (R&B) and JKERA/ JTFRP .

 


GANDERBAL, MARCH 14: Chief Justice High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority, Tashi Rabstan, today visited the District Court Complex, Ganderbal to take stock of measures concerning court management and infrastructure.

Present on the occasion were Abdul Nasir, Principal District & Session Judge (Chairman District Legal Services Authority) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Judicial Officers from the District Headquarter Ganderbal, Ragav S, Senior Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, Public Prosecutors and District Bar Association, Ganderbal.

During the visit, the Chief Justice was accompanied by Mohinder Kumar Sharma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Justice and Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Joint Registrar (Judicial) Srinagar.

A ceremonial guard of honour was accorded to the Chief Justice by the District Police Ganderbal.

The Chief Justice inaugurated the office of Legal Aid Defense Counsel at the District Court Ganderbal, marking a significant milestone in enhancing access to justice for the people of Ganderbal. The initiative was a part of the Legal Aid Defense Counsel (LADC) system, adopted by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) to provide free and competent legal aid especially in criminal matters.

During his visit, the Chief Justice inspected the court complex, reviewed the functioning of e-Sewa Kendra, Judicial infrastructure of various courts and also took stock of court functioning.

The Chief Justice directed all the judicial officers to work hard for the cause of justice and dispose of the old and targeted cases especially which are more than 10 years old on priority, up keeping the faith of general public in court’s functioning. He also emphasized that the facility of e-Seva Kendra be made fully functional and its benefits must reach to the litigants of Ganderbal for filling of their cases through e-mode.

The Chief Justice also held interactive meetings with the judicial officers and Bar members, where the paucity of space for judicial infrastructure and chambers for advocates was raised.

In response, Deputy Commissioner apprised the Chief Justice that 45 kanal of land has already been identified for construction of new Court complex, Ganderbal for which DPR has been prepared and submitted to the higher authorities.

The Chief Justice also directed the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal to construct prefabricated structures, including necessary furniture on a priority basis for lawyer’s chambers.