Day: April 17, 2025

  • “Pride of Poonch: RDCC’s Rising Stars Set to Shine in JKCA Talent Hunt 2025”

    “Pride of Poonch: RDCC’s Rising Stars Set to Shine in JKCA Talent Hunt 2025”

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    POONCH APRIL 17:-A moment of immense pride and celebration for Rahul Dravid Cricket Club (RDCC) as four of its outstanding female cricketers — Vishakha Kesar, Asma Kousar, Gurkirat Kour, and Mehnaz Akhter — prepare to participate in the JKCA Talent Hunt Women Trials 2025, scheduled to be held in Jammu on 18-APR-25.

    These talented players have already donned the JKCA colors in the past, showcasing their brilliance on the field and bringing honor not only to RDCC but to the entire District Poonch. Their selection reflects the growing stature of women’s cricket in the region and the relentless efforts of RDCC in nurturing raw talent into competitive athletes.

    This milestone stands as a testament to the dedication of the Academies/Club’s leadership, especially Mr. Pervaiz Malik Afridi (Chairman/Head Coach RDCC), Mr. Syed Talit Waseem (Assistant Coach RDCC), and Er. Kamran Ahmed Qadri (Assistant Coach RDCC). Their vision and tireless commitment have paved the way for RDCC’s girls to make their mark at state and national levels, including BCCI-affiliated events.

    On behalf of the entire coaching staff and management, RDCC extends heartfelt best wishes and prayers to these four young cricketers. The club stands united in hope that they return victorious, continuing to inspire future generations of female athletes from the region.

    “Their journey is not just a pursuit of cricketing excellence, but a powerful statement of empowerment, resilience, and th limitless potential of Poonch’s daughters._”

  • DDC Rajouri reviews development works amid whirlwind tour of Khawas Block; Assures relief to nomad family affected by thunderstorm

    DDC Rajouri reviews development works amid whirlwind tour of Khawas Block; Assures relief to nomad family affected by thunderstorm

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI, APRIL 17:-District Development Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma today conducted an extensive tour of Khawas Block to inspect ongoing developmental works and assess the status of public facilities.

    During the visit, the District Development Commissioner *inspected Government Higher Secondary School Khawas* and the local hospital to review infrastructure and service delivery. He interacted with staff asking them to put in extra efforts to provide quality education and efficient healthcare services in remote areas.

    The DDC also inspected the ongoing construction *work of the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) Hostel in Khawas*. Expressing satisfaction over the progress, he directed the executing agency to complete the remaining work at the earliest and shift the students to the new facility soon after its completion to ensure better accommodation and learning environment.

    Later, the District Development Commissioner took stock of the *Khawas–Baila road* project and emphasized timely execution with adherence to quality standards to ensure improved road connectivity for the people of the area.

    The DDC also visited the office of the Block Development Officer to review administrative functioning and public grievance redressal mechanism.

    In a humanitarian gesture, the Deputy Commissioner *met a nomadic resident* whose livestock perished due to lightning amid recent Thunderstorm. Expressing sympathy, he assured the affected individual that the loss would be duly compensated in accordance with government norms.

    The visit reflects the administration’s continued commitment to development, welfare, and responsive governance in far-flung areas.

    The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Kotranka Dil Mir; SP Operation Wajahat Hussain; DSEO Sandeep Sharma; Tehsildar Khawas, Sohan Lal; and other district and sectoral officers.

  • Sakeena Itoo emphasises wider awareness, improved accessibility at AIIMS Jammu

    Sakeena Itoo emphasises wider awareness, improved accessibility at AIIMS Jammu

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    Reviews functioning of AIIMS Jammu, hails institution’s potential as model healthcare hub

    JAMMU APRIL 17:-Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today emphasised on improving public accessibility and aggressive outreach campaign to aware people about wide range of medical care services being offered at AIIMS Jammu.

    The Minister made these remarks while chairing a meeting held to review the functioning of AIIMS Jammu.

    Deputy Commissioner, Samba, Rajesh Sharma; Executive Director and CEO AIIMS Jammu, Dr. Shakti Kumar Gupta; Director Coordination New GMCs, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad; HoDs of different departments of AIIMS Jammu, Professors, doctors and other concerned officers were present in the meeting.

    During the meeting, Sakeena assessed the current operational status of AIIMS Jammu besides reviewing progress on several ongoing works at the facility. She also discussed strategies for maximising awareness among the public about the facilities available at this premier health institution.

    Addressing the officers, the Minister emphasized on the transformative role that of AIIMS Jammu in the healthcare landscape of the region, adding that it is one of the finest institutes in terms of healthcare in North India after AIIMS Delhi. “AIIMS Jammu is not just a hospital or an academic institution, but it is a symbol of hope, a beacon of advanced healthcare for the people of Jammu and Kashmir”, Sakeena stated. “Aware public about facilities and services available here so that they can utilize them to the fullest without moving outside for treatments”, she said.

    The Minister added that from state-of-the-art diagnostic labs to specialized treatment units and digital patient care systems, AIIMS Jammu is equipped to handle complex medical needs, yet maximum people are unaware of how to access the services being offered here.

    Highlighting the role of AIIMS in acting as guiding force for other medical institutes of J&K, Sakeena Itoo called upon the Principals of all GMCs, including SKIMS Soura and other hospitals to maintain synergy with AIIMS Jammu for sharing ideas in terms of advanced medical care facilities for the benefit of common masses.

    The Minister, on the occasion, also assured the administration of AIIMS of all possible support and assistance from the government. She assured the CEO AIIMS that all the new proposals will be looked into for necessary approvals in due course of time.

    Earlier, in his presentation, Executive Director and CEO AIIMS Jammu, informed the Minister that this institute is providing advanced medical care facilities to the people of J&K. He informed that till date, AIIMS Jammu has successfully catered to healthcare needs of over 1,70,000 patients and the daily footfall of patients currently stands at approximately 1200 to 1500.

    He also informed the Minister that a Poison Information and Management Centre has been established in the institute to provide round the clock poisoning and Management services to the people. He added that Centre for Advanced Genomics and Precision Medicine has also been established here which is a first of kind facility in Northern India.

    It was also given out that AIIMS Jammu is equipped with 20 Specialty Departments and 12 Super-Specialty Departments besides the institute has implemented advanced systems like Patient Navigation System, Patient Referral System, Walk-in Patient Services, Swasth App Integration for seamless healthcare and other advanced facilities for the ease of common people.

    It was also informed in the meeting that the Blood Bank at AIIMS Jammu is being developed as a state-of-the-art facility, envisioned to be one of its kind in the region, with cutting-edge, high-end technology, all aimed at delivering patient-centric and quality-driven care.

    Later, Sakeena Itoo undertook a comprehensive round of the different sections of the institute. She visited the Academic Block, Convention Centre, Centre for Advanced Genomics and Precision Medicine, Library, Outpatient Department (OPD), Inpatient Department (IPD), Emergency Department, Radiodiagonosis unit including MRI, X-ray and Fluoroscopy section. She expressed satisfaction at the world-class standards being upheld in medical education and training at this prestigious institution.

    She also commended the hospital administration for establishing digital library having modern setup which is offering students and faculty access to global medical journals, interactive learning modules other research databases. She interacted with the students present at the facility, encouraging them to take full advantage of the resources to excel in their academic and professional journeys.

    While inspecting other infrastructure, Sakeena directed the officers to ensure that infrastructure gaps, if any, are addressed promptly and that periodic maintenance of both academic and clinical wings is carried out efficiently.

    During the round of the institute, Sakeena highlighted on the importance of integration between AIIMS Jammu and peripheral healthcare centers to ensure seamless referral systems and better patient outcomes across the region. She reiterated the Omar Abdullah led government’s commitment towards enhancing healthcare delivery in Jammu and Kashmir, while expressing optimism that AIIMS Jammu will soon emerge as a model healthcare and teaching institution across North India.

  • CM Omar Abdullah Unveils ‘The Land of Souls’ – A Spellbinding Book by Author Laranya R. Kumar, a Jammu Girl

    CM Omar Abdullah Unveils ‘The Land of Souls’ – A Spellbinding Book by Author Laranya R. Kumar, a Jammu Girl

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

    JAMMU APRIL 17:-In a vibrant literary gathering celebrating creativity and intellect, Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah officially released ‘The Land of Souls, a mesmerizing debut novel by the remarkably gifted author Laranya R. Kumar. The launch marked the arrival of a compelling new voice in Indian literature — one that dares to explore the metaphysical and mystical frontiers of the human spirit.

    Set in a hidden parallel universe, *The Land of Souls* the heart of which was Kelasa; the abode of Isvara ;
    introduces readers to a realm where radiant, egoless beings wield unimaginable powers, their existence cloaked in mystery and wonder. Through vivid storytelling and profound insights, the novel invites readers to transcend the material world and reflect on deeper truths of existence.

    The prestigious event was graced by Hon’ble Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo and Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, along with an esteemed panel of dignitaries . they to encourage the Jammu Talent.

    A true polymath, Laranya R. Kumar is a scholar, speaker, Mandala artist, musician, equestrian, and a firm believer in the unseen forces that guide life. Born in Jammu and currently studied at Army Public School, Yol Cantonment, Himachal Pradesh, Laranya has already made her mark on the global stage. She is a recipient of the Global Essay Prize by the John Locke Institute (UK), the prestigious J.R.D. Tata Memorial Essay Competition (Mumbai), and the Award of Excellence and 9 Corps AWWA Commendation Card for her exceptional contributions. Her creative journey is deeply inspired by her father’s service in the Indian Army, and she credits her mother as her strongest pillar of support.

    Speaking at the event, CM Omar Abdullah praised the author’s rare intellect and creative courage, stating, *“This book is a profound reflection of a young mind capable of navigating cosmic questions with clarity and compassion. It is not just a novel, but an awakening.”*

    The event also featured a powerful interaction with the author, where she delved into the philosophical and artistic vision behind the book. A live Mandala art demonstration and a visual representation of the novel’s key themes left the audience captivated, offering a multi-sensory experience that reflected the spirit of the story.

    ‘The Land of Souls’ is more than fiction — it is a mystical odyssey, a philosophical exploration, and a work of art. It is now available at leading bookstores and on major online platforms.The young author is now working on her next book ‘ The Oath of Ithara’ .

  • Under-Construction Motorable Bridge Collapses Amid Thunderstorm in Sub Division Nowshera

    Under-Construction Motorable Bridge Collapses Amid Thunderstorm in Sub Division Nowshera

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    LIAQAT ALI KHATANA

    RAJOURI APRIL 17:-A motorable bridge under construction in the Nowshera sub-district of Rajouri collapsed late last night following a severe thunderstorm and heavy lightning.

    According to officials, the bridge—spanning 132 meters with an estimated cost of Rs 592.58 lakh—was being constructed by the Public Works Department (PWD). At the time of the collapse, one cross-slab section had already been laid, while work was still ongoing on the remaining portion.

    Approximately 15 to 16 workers were on site when the weather suddenly took a turn for the worse. As the storm intensified, the workers took a precautionary break of about an hour. During this interval, the structure gave way and collapsed. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported.

    The bridge project, which began during the 2014–15 fiscal year, had been stalled for several years due to funding constraints. It was only recently resumed after a 12-year hiatus, following persistent public demand. The bridge is considered crucial as it aims to connect the Nowshera and Seri blocks—both located in the sensitive border region.

    Residents have long urged authorities to expedite construction, citing the bridge’s importance for connectivity and regional development. The recent collapse is expected to raise fresh concerns over structural safety and the pace of infrastructure work in remote areas.

    Authorities are yet to release a detailed technical report on the cause of the collapse.