Day: October 29, 2024

  • District Administration Rajouri Celebrates National Integration Day & UT Foundation Day with ‘Run for Unity’ and Cultural Events

    District Administration Rajouri Celebrates National Integration Day & UT Foundation Day with ‘Run for Unity’ and Cultural Events

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI OCT 29:-The District Administration Rajouri commemorated National Integration Day and J&K UT Foundation Day with a series of impactful events, fostering unity, pride, and national integration. The day’s activities began with the ‘Run for Unity,’ a powerful symbol of collective strength and harmony. Jointly flagged off by DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range, Tejinder Singh, and Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, the run began at Dak Bungalow and concluded at the Sports Stadium in Kheora. Participants of all ages, including district officials and enthusiastic youth, took part, showcasing their dedication to unity and national values.

    At the Sports Stadium, participants gathered to take the National Unity Day pledge, reaffirming their commitment to principles of peace and cohesion. A spirited march-past ensued, featuring diverse contingents from across the district, including Chowkidars and Numberdars, who displayed their dedication to serving the nation. The District Administration also recognized the top three male and female finishers of the ‘Run for Unity,’ honoring them with awards for their exemplary performance.

    The festivities continued with a vibrant cultural program and a Mushaira, both centered on the theme of national integration. Local artists and poets delivered powerful messages of unity and pride through their performances, striking a chord with the audience and enhancing the spirit of solidarity among all present.

    In his address, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma emphasized the importance of unity in diversity and encouraged the audience to strengthen bonds across communities. “Our strength lies in our diversity. Let us continue to build bridges of unity and solidarity across communities to contribute to our nation’s progress,” he stated, urging collective efforts for a prosperous future.

    ADC Rajouri, Rajiv Khajuria, extended a warm vote of thanks on behalf of the District Administration, acknowledging the contributions of all participants, organizers, and supporting departments in making the event a memorable and inspiring celebration.

  • Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviews functioning of Housing & Urban Development initiatives

    Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviews functioning of Housing & Urban Development initiatives

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    Emphasises importance of strengthening town planning efforts to address urban growth effectively

    SRINAGAR, OCT 29:-Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today conducted a comprehensive review of the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD) here at Civil Secretariat.

    The review meeting aimed at evaluating the department’s progress, identifying challenges, and setting priorities for urban development projects.

    The meeting was attended by Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary H&UDD Mandeep Kaur, Divisional Commissioners of both Kashmir and Jammu Divisions, and Commissioners of Srinagar and Jammu Municipal Corporations, among others.

    The review meeting commenced with a detailed presentation by Commissioner Secretary Mandeep Kaur, who outlined the functioning of H&UDD and its affiliated organizations.

    Discussions spanned across central funding for various schemes and departmental needs besides the key issues including policy gaps, outdated master plans and overlapping mandates of development authorities.

    Also, the meeting highlighted the concerns about rationalizing human resources and ensuring the long-term viability of Smart City initiatives.

    During the meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized the importance of strengthening town planning efforts to address urban growth effectively.

    “The effectiveness of our town planning will determine the future livability of our cities,” the chief minister remarked while stressing that urban planning must be resilient to meet the needs of the growing population.

    During the meeting, several discussions also focused on organization-specific issues, policy reform initiatives, and updates on projects implemented by Jammu Smart City Limited and Srinagar Smart City Limited.

    The Chief Minister reviewed detailed project proposals and their current status, urging prompt action and accountability to drive visible progress.

    Regarding the e-bus project under FAME-II and the PM e-bus Sewa scheme, he directed an increase in e-bus frequency on city routes and instructed that the routes be expanded to include key hospitals. “Citizens need reliable and accessible transport options. Connecting e-buses to hospitals and high-demand areas is essential for a responsive urban transport network,” he stated.

    The meeting also included reviews of major urban development schemes such as CITIIS 2.0, AMRUT 2.0, PMAY (Urban), the National Urban Livelihood Mission, and the National Clean Air Programme. Abdullah encouraged the department to address bottlenecks in project implementation. “Efficient execution of these programs can transform our cities into cleaner, more sustainable spaces for all residents,” he said.

    The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to a holistic and sustainable urban development approach, aiming for enhanced quality of life for all urban residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

  • 5-Day Session of JK Assembly to Begin on Nov 4 ; Discussions on LG’s address to dominate proceedings

    5-Day Session of JK Assembly to Begin on Nov 4 ; Discussions on LG’s address to dominate proceedings

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SRINAGAR OCT 29 :-The Legislative Assembly secretariat on Tuesday issued the provisional calendar for the first session of the House, set to begin on November 4. According to the provisional calendar, a copy of which is in possession of news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the five-day session will begin with the election of the Speaker and the Lieutenant Governor’s address to the House.

    Session Schedule

    November 4: Election of the Speaker and the Lieutenant Governor’s address to the House.

    November 5: Obituary references for former MLAs who passed away since the last session of the erstwhile assembly.

    November 6-7: Discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the LG’s address.

    November 8: Discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the LG’s address and the reply thereto—(KNO)

  • Delegation of J&K Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers Forum Meets with Javid Rana to Discuss Key Issues

    Delegation of J&K Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers Forum Meets with Javid Rana to Discuss Key Issues

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    POONCH OCT 29 :- In a crucial step toward addressing the challenges faced by Rehbar-e-Khel teachers in Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation from the J&K Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers Forum (AJKRKTF) met with the Cabinet Minister, Javid Ahmad Rana, today.

    The delegation, led by Chief Spokesperson Parvaiz Ahmad Malik, who also serves as the District President for Poonch, was joined by four Zonal Presidents, ZP Mankote, ZP Harni, ZP Mendhar, ZP Balakote and a group of dedicated teachers committed to representing the forum’s pressing concerns.

    During the meeting, the delegation discussed the critical issues impacting Rehbar-e-Khel teachers across the region, emphasizing the need for a timely resolution.

    Javid Ahmad Rana expressed his understanding and support, affirming that the teachers’ demands are both genuine and important. He assured the delegation of his commitment to bring these matters to the attention of the government and advocate for swift and effective solutions.

    Parvaiz Ahmad Malik conveyed sincere gratitude to the Minister on behalf of the J&K Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers Forum, appreciating his willingness to address their concerns and acknowledging his assurance of government support.

    The forum remains hopeful that with  Javid Ahmad Rana’s intervention, the longstanding issues faced by Rehbar-e-Khel teachers will be resolved promptly, contributing to a better working environment and fair treatment for educators across Jammu and Kashmir.

  • DC Rajouri reviews preparations for Diwali,Calls for adequate Safety measures, essential Services

    DC Rajouri reviews preparations for Diwali,Calls for adequate Safety measures, essential Services

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI OCT 29:-Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma chaired a review meeting here today in the Conference Hall of the DC Office to review preparations for the Diwali- the festival of lights.

    The meeting focused on ensuring the uninterrupted provision of essential services, including electricity and water, as well as enhanced traffic, health, and fire safety measures throughout the district during the festive period.

    The Deputy Commissioner instructed the Executive Engineer (Ex En) of the Power Development Department (PDD) to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply on Diwali day, recognizing the need for stability and reliability in power supply during the festivities. He also directed the Executive Engineer (Ex En) of the Jal Shakti Department to make necessary arrangements for an ample water supply, ensuring that households have access to essential resources without interruption.

    To manage the expected increase in traffic, especially in Rajouri town and its adjacent areas, the Deputy Commissioner outlined specific strategies to enhance road safety and traffic flow. Coordination between various departments, including traffic management teams, was emphasized to mitigate congestion and improve the movement of vehicles within the town.

    For health and fire safety, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Health Department and the Fire & Emergency Services to be on high alert. He stressed that shops selling firecrackers must be equipped with fire extinguishers, ensuring safety standards are maintained. Additional directives were issued for deploying high-pressure pumps and jet sprays to prepare for potential fire emergencies, with special arrangements made to deploy these resources strategically across the town.

    The Deputy Commissioner also instructed the Executive Officer (EO) of the municipality to prioritize cleanliness across the town, arranging thorough cleaning activities and enhancing illumination to create a festive and safe environment for the residents.

    SSP Rajouri, Randeep Kumar, directed officers to maintain close liaison with the police to ensure readiness and to communicate promptly in case of any incidents, strengthening the district’s preparedness for a smooth celebration.

    The meeting was attended by ADC Rajouri, Rajiv Khajuria, Executive Engineers of PDD and Jal Shakti, the EO of the municipality, and other district officers who affirmed their commitment to implementing the directives.

  • Deputy Commissioner Reviews status of ongoing Developmental Projects in Rajouri District

    Deputy Commissioner Reviews status of ongoing Developmental Projects in Rajouri District

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI OCTOBER 29:–Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma on Tuesday chaired an inter-departmental meeting here in Dak Bungalow to assess developmental progress and address obstacles affecting project execution across the district. The meeting aimed at accelerating the pace of ongoing works, resolving bottlenecks, and enhancing inter-departmental coordination to ensure timely project completion.

    DC Sharma emphasized the need to expedite development projects in all subdivisions, especially major initiatives such as the Ayush building in Thanamandi, the GMC building, chain-link fencing in Nowshera, bridges in Darhal, Boys’ Hostel in Sunderbani, Girls’ Hostel in Budhal, and the Ekalavya Model School in Kotranka. He highlighted the urgency of completing these facilities to strengthen infrastructure and meet the social development needs of the district.

    The Deputy Commissioner also conducted a comprehensive review of various departments, including the Rural Development Department (RDD), Education, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Tourism, and the Municipality Committee Rajouri. He underscored the importance of coordinated efforts within these departments to advance the district’s developmental objectives.
    Addressing the welfare of Anganwadi workers and cooks, DC Sharma directed the timely release of their honorarium to support their continuous contributions to essential community services.

    He also instructed the Executive Engineer of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) to visit Draman, Draj A, Chambi Trar, and Kotranka to evaluate the progress of ongoing water schemes.

    Emphasizing the need to ensure basic amenities, DC Sharma directed all relevant agencies to prioritize groundwater facilities, approach roads, and water connections under JJM, specifically prioritizing JNV Kotranka, schools, and government institutions under this scheme.

    In addition, DC Sharma instructed the Divisional Forest Officers (DFO) of Rajouri and Nowshera to strengthen enforcement against timber smuggling. Recognizing recent wildlife incidents, he also directed authorities to issue safety alerts in Budhal areas experiencing an increase in bear attacks, urging residents to remain vigilant and exercise caution.

    The meeting saw participation from senior officials, including the Superintendent Engineer, Chief Planning Officer Maqsood Ahmed, Executive Engineers, and various district officers.

  • Week MSME-New Delhi sponsored training programme on Azolla farming technology: future viable livelihood options for farming communities of Kashmir.

    Week MSME-New Delhi sponsored training programme on Azolla farming technology: future viable livelihood options for farming communities of Kashmir.

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SHAKIR BHAT

    SRINAGAR OCT 29:-One Week MSME-New Delhi sponsored training programme on Azolla farming technology: future viable livelihood options for farming communities of Kashmir organised by Division of basic science and humanities, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, Sher-e-Kashmir university of Agriculture science and Technology -Kashmir concludes today at Faculty of Agriculture.

    The two skill courses witnessed participation of 25 each young entrepreneurs from various parts of Kashmir. On the inaugural, function Dr. Malik Asif Aziz (training coordinator) Welcomed the guests and the participants.

    Dean Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Raihana H. Kant briefed the audience about the importance of the training programme. Dr. Prajjal Dey, Assistant Professor presented vote of thanks to the gathering. The Program was coordinated by Dr. Prajjal Dey, Sapalika Dogra, Mushtaq Ahmad Malik and by student coordinators viz; Raquib Rasool and Mathi guru J.P under the supervision of Training coordinators. Expert talks were delivered by Field specialists namely Dr. G. Abraham (Principal scientist, Indian Agricultural Research institute, New Delhi), Dr. Shobit Thapa (Scientist, National bureau of Agriculturally important microbes, MAU, Uttar Pradesh),Dr. Susmita Das (assistant professor, Sri Sri university, Odisha), Dr. Tapas Ranjan Sahoo(Scientist, OUAT Bhubaneswar, Odisha),Dr. Melvin Joe.M (Assistant professor, SRM institute of science and technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) besides many inhouse speakers of the Faculty.

    The aim of this training programme was to bring awareness among trainees about Azolla production technology and its entrepreneurial prospects for employment generation. This innovative cheap and efficient technology has been proven successful throughout the country, Techniques suitable for adopting this technology for first time in Kashmir valley has been taught to the participants along with the necessary Azolla culture maintenance techniques during Heavy winters, Set up of Azolla farm, Operational cost , Applications in Agriculture, poultry, dairy farms and many more necessary techniques necessary for the successful entrepreneurship in Azolla production technology has been successfully imparted to trainees. All the logistic support was provided to the trainees as per MSME-Guidelines.

    The organizers expressed overwhelming satisfaction on the response of the trainees and few interested trainees were identified on the spot for adopting the technology for entrepreurhip. In the end training coordinator along with the organising team thanked HVC, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Gania ,MSME-Coordinator, Prof. Haroon Naik and Dean, FOA-Wadura, Prof. Raihana H.Kant for their constant support and encouragement in organising such events in the Faculty of Agriculture-Wadura-Sopore.

  • Poles Installed by Power Development Department (PDD) under Scheme PMDP Remain non-functional due to the Failure of PDD 

    Poles Installed by Power Development Department (PDD) under Scheme PMDP Remain non-functional due to the Failure of PDD 

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SRINAGAR OCT 29:– Chairman Greater Shah-re-Khaas Mohammad Faheem Reshi, has highlighted an issue regarding the high mast poles set up by the Power Development Department (PDD) under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) in Srinagar. Despite the installation of these poles remain non-functional due to the PDD’s failure .

    This situation underlines the gap between infrastructure installation and operational execution.

    Addressing this issue, Reshi said would require attention from relevant authorities to ensure that these installations fulfill their intended purpose, improving public lighting and safety.

    Reshi’s call to action could help prompt quicker resolution, possibly encouraging public dialogue or even official inquiries into the reasons behind the delay.

  • J&K Govt sets export target of Rs 10,000 cr in next 5 yrs ; Envisions ‘heaven for exports’ status for ‘heaven on earth’

    J&K Govt sets export target of Rs 10,000 cr in next 5 yrs ; Envisions ‘heaven for exports’ status for ‘heaven on earth’

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    Steps to be taken to address gaps in existing scenario

    JAMMU,OCT 29:– Government of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has set export target of Rs 10,000 crore in next five years by leveraging both the core and emerging areas of exports and through effective institutional mechanism, conducive strategies, trade infrastructure and marketing assistance.

    This has been revealed in the Draft Jammu and Kashmir Export Policy, 2024 by the Department of Industries and Commerce, the copy of which is available with EXCELSIOR.

    Official sources told EXCELSIOR that as country is striving to become a leader in the international trade with export hub of USD 5 trillion economy, the J&K Government has decided to provide focused facilitation to exports from Union Territory in sectors where it enjoys competitive advantages.

    “This factor taken together coupled with the need to give impetus to introduce best practices, provide for capacity building and enhance quality and competitiveness of exports, calls for developing a more conducive export ecosystem and putting in place a robust policy framework to improve export performance”, sources further said.

    They said that vision behind the J&K Export Policy is to harness export potential of Jammu & Kashmir based on its strengths and key advantages and transform its economy into a competitive export led entity and make Jammu and Kashmir a “heaven for exports” in line with its globally acclaimed status as “heaven on earth”.

    “The mission is to achieve an export target of Rs 10,000 crore in five years leveraging both the core and emerging areas of exports by providing an effective institutional mechanism, conducive strategies, trade infrastructure and marketing assistance aimed towards facilitating exports”, sources said.

    As per the official document, the Export Policy will help in identifying potential sectors/products for promotion of exports from these sectors/products; facilitating substantial incremental growth of export of products identified in the focus sectors by enhancing value addition and quality competitiveness and help in laying emphasis on boosting exports of unique and world-famous handicraft and handloom products and agri-commodities with special focus on GI tagged products.

    Further, the Export Policy will help in developing new focus areas in exports such as Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices, IT & ITES, Biotechnology, Electric Mobility etc.
    The other objectives of the policy are to galvanize the districts as export hub by calling for an inclusive approach with focus on district-led export growth for boosting exports; encourage skill development and capacity building to improve competitiveness of the export units; promote innovation for export of new value added products; promote initiatives to enhance product quality and standards and support certification of products exported from the UT; promote entrepreneurship in the field of exports and facilitate whole-of-Government approach to improve export competitiveness of domestic exporters.

    To achieve these objectives, the Government will formulate sector and product specific District Export Action Plans with specific hard and soft interventions, designed to be implemented in the medium and long-term for acceleration of exports. Further, the Government will revamp product-specific requirements pertaining to common facility center, processing center, raw material banks, skill development, design innovation, quality and standards etc in line with the product demand.

    Apart from providing financial and other incentives to the export-oriented units to give them a head start for competing with other States and UTs, the Government will also address gaps in the existing scenario of exports from J&K with reference to the parameters mentioned in the Export Preparedness Index of NITI Aayog.
    “The Government will also create a strong analytical database on exports and exporters in Jammu and Kashmir, promote Brand Jammu & Kashmir in domestic and international markets, improve visibility of exporters from Jammu and Kashmir in national and international platforms and augment and strengthen J&K Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) as the Nodal Agency to plan and execute strategies for ensuring sustainable growth of exports from Jammu and Kashmir”, read the document.

    The Export Policy shall come into effect from the date of its notification by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and will be valid for a period of three years or until a revised Export Policy is announced, whichever being earlier, the document further read.

  • Smile Foundation To Bring Relief To Batpora Hayhama Kupwara Fire Victims.

    Smile Foundation To Bring Relief To Batpora Hayhama Kupwara Fire Victims.

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    FARHAN KITAB 

    SRINAGAR OCT 29:– In a heartwarming gesture, the Smile Foundation, led by Chairperson Ms. Masrat and Secretary Mr. Sajad Ahmed, visited Batpora Hayhama, Kupwara, to bring aid to families affected in a recent fire. Accompanying them was Abjeet Singh Talib, a celebrated social icon, who extended his support to the victims as part of the foundation’s relief efforts.

    During the visit, the Smile Foundation team distributed essential items to help the affected families meet their immediate needs. The organization, known for its dedicated support for vulnerable communities, took swift action to ensure the victims have access to basic necessities as they recover from the devastating incident.

    The Smile Foundation’s timely response highlights the importance of community-driven support during crises, offering hope and a sense of solidarity to those in need.