Author: editor

  • Mohd Farooq Muztar Honoured with Education Excellence Award by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

    Mohd Farooq Muztar Honoured with Education Excellence Award by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    POONCH NOV 26:-In a momentous recognition of his lifelong dedication to academics and community upliftment, Mohd Farooq Muztar — eminent scholar, poet, writer and educationist, as well as the Founder-Patron of the Himalayan Education Mission (HEM), Rajouri — has been conferred with the prestigious Education Excellence Award.

    The award was presented by Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, acknowledging Muztar’s phenomenal contribution to the field of education, transformational role in shaping young minds, and decades of service to the Pir Panjal region.

    This honour stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to educational empowerment and literary excellence across Rajouri, Poonch and the wider Jammu & Kashmir region.

  • Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan Meeting Held in Budgam

    Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan Meeting Held in Budgam

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SRINAGAR NOV 26:-The Congress Party on Wednesday held a key district-level review meeting in Budgam under the Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan, the nationwide organisational renewal and restructuring campaign initiated by the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

    The meeting was attended by AICC Observer Ms. Shamina Shafiq (Former Member, National Commission for Women), along with State Observers Mr. Irfan Hafiz Lone (MLA), Ms. Shameema Raina (President, J&K Pradesh Mahila Congress), and Haji Farooq Ahmed Mir.

    During the session, the observers briefed party workers on the ongoing restructuring process aimed at strengthening District Congress Committees through transparent leadership selection, greater accountability, and extensive grassroots consultations.

    Speaking to the media, AICC Observer Shamina Shafiq said:
    “Budgam has energy, commitment, and clarity. Our job is to channel that strength into a leadership structure that truly represents the people and works shoulder to shoulder with them. Identifying capable leaders with humility, vision, and courage is a shared responsibility, and we welcome wide participation.”
    She appealed to party workers, citizens, and every well-wisher of democracy in Budgam to engage sincerely with the Abhiyan.

    The observers informed that discussions with local workers, representatives, and civil society members are underway to identify strong and deserving leaders for district-level responsibilities. The process will be followed by restructuring of executive committees and the formation of District Political Affairs Committees, ensuring a more dynamic and responsive organisational setup.

    It was underlined that the Abhiyan is not just an administrative reform but also an ideological reaffirmation inspired by the Bharat Jodo Yatra and Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which highlighted the party’s core principles of justice, inclusion, harmony, and secularism. The Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan seeks to translate that spirit into organisational strength.

    The meeting also reiterated the Congress Party’s commitment to decentralisation, inclusion, and expanding leadership opportunities for SC, ST, OBC, minorities, women, and youth.

    The observers will submit a detailed report to the AICC within the stipulated timeframe.

  • DYSSO Poonch Observes Constitution Day with Special Pledge Ceremony

    DYSSO Poonch Observes Constitution Day with Special Pledge Ceremony

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    POONCH NOV 26:-The District Youth Services & Sports Office (DYSSO) Poonch today observed Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) by organizing a special pledge ceremony at its office premises. The event was held under the guidance of District Youth Services & Sports Officer, Mohammad Qasim.

    All staff members of the department participated in the ceremony with great enthusiasm and sincerity. The Constitutional Pledge was administered during the programme, with the employees collectively reaffirming their commitment to uphold, protect, and promote the values, principles, and fundamental duties enshrined in the Constitution of India.

    The programme also highlighted the significance of unity, integrity, and the role of every citizen in building a just, inclusive, and progressive nation. The event was conducted in a dignified and disciplined manner, reflecting the department’s dedication to fostering constitutional awareness, civic responsibility, and ethical conduct among its workforce.

  • Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Observes Constitution Day with Patriotic Fervour

    Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Observes Constitution Day with Patriotic Fervour

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI NOV 26:-Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) celebrated Constitution Day with dignity and national pride, reaffirming its commitment to the values enshrined in the Constitution of India.

    The programme commenced with the reading of the Preamble, led by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jawaid Iqbal. In his address, the Vice Chancellor emphasized the enduring significance of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, urging students and staff to uphold these foundational principles in their personal and professional lives.

    A Constitution Day Pledge was administered to all participants, reinforcing their commitment to constitutional duties and values. To mark the occasion, the Vice Chancellor planted a tree at the Department of Management Studies, symbolizing growth, sustainability, and responsibility. Prof. Iqbal also took part in the signing of the Constitution Wall, an initiative aimed at fostering greater constitutional awareness among the university community.

    Across the campus, various departments organized a series of engaging activities, including quiz competitions, symposiums, poster-making events, and the screening of documentaries focused on constitutional history and democratic values. These initiatives aimed to enrich students’ understanding of the Constitution and promote meaningful dialogue on its relevance in contemporary society.

    Faculty members, administrative staff, and students participated with enthusiasm, reflecting the University’s commitment to nurturing informed, responsible, and constitutionally aware citizens.

  • Vice Chancellor Prof BGSB University Jawaid Iqbal Inspects Proposed Construction Sites Along with PWD Officials

    Vice Chancellor Prof BGSB University Jawaid Iqbal Inspects Proposed Construction Sites Along with PWD Officials

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI NOV 25:-Vice Chancellor BGSB University Prof. Jawaid Iqbal today conducted an extensive visit to several locations earmarked for upcoming construction and development works. He was accompanied by the Executive Engineer PWD Er Afab Assistant Executive Engineer Er Riaz Choudhary.

    During the inspection tour, Prof. Iqbal reviewed the proposed sites and discussed key infrastructural requirements with the engineering team. The visit aimed at assessing the feasibility, layout, and immediate needs to ensure timely initiation and smooth execution of the planned projects.

    The PWD officials briefed the Vice Chancellor on technical aspects, project timelines, and resource requirements. Prof. Iqbal emphasized the importance of quality infrastructure for institutional growth and directed the team to maintain high standards while expediting the preparatory processes.

    Further actions based on the visit are expected to commence soon as part of the institution’s developmental roadmap.

  • MLA Budhal Javed Iqbal Terms BJP Leaders’ Opposition to Muslim Admissions in SMVD Medical College as “Deeply Shameful”

    MLA Budhal Javed Iqbal Terms BJP Leaders’ Opposition to Muslim Admissions in SMVD Medical College as “Deeply Shameful”

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI NOV 25:-National Conference MLA from Budhal, Choudhary Javed Iqbal, has strongly criticised BJP leaders for opposing the admission of Muslim students to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) Medical College, calling the move “a deeply shameful act” that strikes at the core of India’s constitutional and democratic values.

    In a strongly worded Facebook post, the MLA said such objections push the nation back toward an era of “discrimination and untouchability.” He questioned how the BJP leadership could justify hostility toward Muslim students in India while millions of Indians continue to live and work with dignity in Muslim-majority countries across the world.

    Iqbal also expressed concern over what he described as the “conspicuous silence” of BJP’s Muslim leaders on the issue.
    “Instead of speaking up against injustice, they appear more focused on safeguarding their positions and social image—busy making reels with tea and kachori while failing to raise their voice against blatant discrimination,” he wrote.

    He concluded his post with a powerful remark:
    “A hundred years of a life lived in humiliation is not worth a single day lived with honour.”

    Iqbal’s statement has stirred fresh debate over the ongoing controversy surrounding admissions at SMVD Medical College and the political reactions that have followed.

  • Aga Syed Ruhullah Slams ‘Selective Use of Religion’ in Admission & Waqf Management Row 

    Aga Syed Ruhullah Slams ‘Selective Use of Religion’ in Admission & Waqf Management Row 

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SRINAGAR NOV 25:-In a sharp criticism aimed at the government, prominent Kashmiri leader and Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has questioned what he termed as the “selective use of religion” in matters related to education and religious institutions.

    Posting from his official X handle @Office_ASRM, Mehdi reacted strongly to objections raised over Muslim students studying at Vaishno Devi University, allegedly on grounds that the institution has Hindu donors despite being a state-backed university.

    At the same time, he pointed out that the government “feels entitled” to appoint non-Muslims within Muslim Waqf management, overriding the community’s own religious space.

    “How does the BJP justify these two opposite positions? What principle is at work here?” Mehdi asked in his statement.

    He added that this approach reflects a “very selective use of religion, one that always seems to run in only one direction.”

    The remarks have triggered fresh political debate amid ongoing discussions on admissions and Waqf-related decisions in Jammu & Kashmir.

  • Rana inaugurates/lay foundation stones of projects worth over ₹80 Cr in Mankote

    Rana inaugurates/lay foundation stones of projects worth over ₹80 Cr in Mankote

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    POONCH NOV 25:-In a major fillip to the developmental trajectory of Mankote Block in the Mendhar subdivision of district Poonch, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a wide spectrum of infrastructure projects collectively valued at over ₹80 crore.

    The projects, covering essential sectors such as road connectivity, drinking water supply, education, public utilities and sports are poised to significantly uplift civic amenities and accelerate socio-economic development in this strategically important border belt.

    Addressing an enthusiastic gathering during the event, the Minister underscored Omar Abdullah led Government’s resolve to bring sustained and inclusive development to border and remote regions that have long faced infrastructural challenges.

    He stated that the newly sanctioned and inaugurated works will substantially improve inter-village connectivity, enhance potable water supply and upgrade public institutions across Mankote, thereby improving the quality of life for thousands of residents.

    He reaffirmed that the Omar Abdullah Government remains committed to ensuring that geographically difficult and underserved areas receive priority attention and infrastructure at par with other regions.

    Among the prominent inaugurations was the upgradation, purchase and electrification of the Community Hall at GMS Mankote, which is set to serve as a vibrant multipurpose facility for social, cultural and educational events.

    The Minister also laid the foundation for a Community Facility Centre (CFC) at Village Mankote, marking another step toward strengthening local civic infrastructure.

    Additionally, new academic rooms at Middle School Barja and Primary School Magyad Keni, along with smart classrooms, reading rooms and library infrastructure at Middle School Nar Chhajla were launched to bolster digital learning and improve academic environments.

    Key education-related construction works including the completion of High School Bareela, the new Zonal Education Office at Mankote and a four-room block at High School Topa further highlight the Minister’s emphasis on strengthening educational infrastructure in tribal-dominated and remote pockets.

    A major portion of the day’s programme was dedicated to inaugurating and launching extensive road connectivity projects across multiple panchayats such as Mankote, Ghani, Sagra, Balnoi, Chhajla, Kasbalari and Dabraj.

    Under RDD, several rural links, vital for daily mobility and emergency accessibility, were taken up, including the concrete pavement to HSS Mankote, a 60-metre steel foot bridge at Mohalla Bacheri linking Balnoi and Sagra, and numerous inter-hamlet roads such as KG Top–Kholi, Choudrian Mohalla, Bella Bakerwalla–Garh Dabraj, Dubhna Khandhroo–Nagalban, Mohalla Chowana (Sagra), Bobby Camp–Pillain Water Point, Balnoi–Sharif Mohalla, Dharan Morh–Nakka Mohalla via Jamia Masjid and several other stretches expanding connectivity deep into interior habitations.

    Simultaneously, major RDD, PWD and PMGSY road and culvert works were also inaugurated, including the Defence Road-Gorsian link, Ziarat Pothi–Maghyad Road, Dullain–Chouhan, Jabran–Parat, Naki Mera–Bela Chhajjla, Balhar–Moori, Sardaran–Gurdwara, Upper Narooni–Charan Simkan and the Mera–Dakan Wala link in Balnoi.

    Macadamization projects, considered crucial for all-weather durability, were initiated on several high-traffic and strategically relevant roads such as the Balnoi–Ghani, Dharana–Chhajjla, Sagra–Balhar, Mankote Bridge–Bobi Camp and Uchhad–Kasbalari roads.

    Additional construction and maintenance projects at Sagra–Ghani, Challas Gagito–Lehar Mohalla, KG–Kohlian Ghani, Nagar Gali–Bhagyote Gali and Uchhad Dewli–Ghani Bhatanar further highlight the comprehensive nature of this connectivity push.

    Major PMGSY works, including the Dharana–Chhajjla road and critical Ghani–Sagra link upgrades, were also rolled out, promising long-term improvements in regional accessibility.

    Further expanding the road network, the Minister inaugurated key PWD projects including the roads from Gani to Mohalla Jattan, Bela Pathana to Therpur via Naki Kassi, the approach road to the steel Jullah Bridge in Mankote, the Sagra–Ghani road from Km 6 to 9, Balnoi to Tatapani along the Line of Control with a vented causeway at Bugheli Nallah, Lower Banloi via Kishti, Naka Salwah to Nar Tarkhana, Gurah Nima Chughan to Hudian Gali, the BRO Salani–Shaheed Aurangzaib link, Sagra–Balhar to Model School Dullian, Masoom Shah Ziarat to Ramkund Temple, Kani Narooni to Nagal Gali, Sona Gali Choi to Raja Shah Ziarat and the Tain–Thamlote road.

    These works collectively address longstanding connectivity bottlenecks and are expected to open new avenues for economic activity, emergency accessibility and social integration.

    The education sector witnessed a corresponding boost through infrastructure upgrades at Girls Middle School Dhara Topa, High School Tain, High School Topa, Middle School Berja, Middle School Mankote (Boys), Middle School Nar Mankote, Middle School Thera and several primary schools including Basni, Chontra, Deriyaran and Lower Tain.

    The improvements underscore the Government’s focus on modernizing academic facilities, promoting digital and experiential learning and ensuring safe and conducive school environments for children in rural and tribal areas.

    On the sports front, significant investments were made to nurture youth talent and encourage physical activity. The Minister inaugurated the Mini Sports Stadium at Panchayat Magyad Keni, launched the upgrade of the Sports Stadium at Chhajla through chain-link fencing, and initiated work on a modern Sports Complex at Panchayat Mankote Lower (Ward 4).

    These facilities are expected to provide structured training spaces, encourage participation in organized sports and offer meaningful recreational opportunities to local youth.

    Equally noteworthy were the drinking water and Jal Shakti projects unveiled today. These include the WSS Sagra Balhar Lower Devta, WSS Kasbalari, WSS Ramkund Chhajla, the drilling of a 250 mm tube-well at Mankote, and the establishment of a Receiving Station at Ghani.

    With these projects, potable water availability is expected to increase substantially, addressing chronic shortages and ensuring a reliable supply to households in water-stressed areas.

    To strengthen administrative outreach and community support systems, the Minister also inaugurated an Inspection Hut with a Chowkidar’s Quarter and Driver’s Rest Room at Mankote, as well as the newly constructed Zonal Education Office, marking a step forward in improving service delivery and governance at the grassroots.

    Rana reiterated the Government’s commitment to and sustained focus on the holistic and sustainable development of border and remote regions. He stated that the projects inaugurated constitute only the beginning of a much larger developmental roadmap that aims to transform every village in Mankote into a model of progress and opportunity.

    He thanked the local residents for their continuous support and directed officials to ensure time-bound execution of all works with complete transparency and adherence to quality standards, stating that inauguration and foundation stone laying of projects worth ₹75 crore mark a momentous day for Mankote Block, promising far-reaching improvements in road connectivity, public services, water supply systems, educational facilities and sports infrastructure.

    Together, he said, these initiatives lay a strong foundation for sustained, inclusive and forward-looking development in this crucial border region of Poonch.

  • JKWDC Organises One-Day Mega Awareness Camp-cum-Loan Mela at GDC Ajas Bandipora

    JKWDC Organises One-Day Mega Awareness Camp-cum-Loan Mela at GDC Ajas Bandipora

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    BANDIPORA NOV 25:-The J&K Women’s Development Corporation (JKWDC) today organised a one-day Mega Awareness Camp-cum-Loan Mela at Government Degree College (GDC) Ajas Bandipora. The programme was sponsored by the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC), Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India.

    The event was graced by the Incharge Principal GDC Ajas and the Principal Govt. Higher Secondary School Ajas, Bandipora, who attended as Chief Guests, while Dr. Mir Amina, Medical Officer Hajin, also graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. They were warmly received by Ms. Gul Yasmeen, District Manager JKWDC (Bandipora–Srinagar–Budgam), along with her team.

    The programme aimed to sensitise the public about various self-employment, livelihood, and financial assistance schemes offered by JKWDC and NMDFC to promote women’s economic independence.

    A large gathering, including local women entrepreneurs, participated in the camp.

    Addressing the audience, the dignitaries highlighted the need for women to actively utilise government-sponsored livelihood schemes for sustainable income generation and empowerment.

    The Principal GDC Ajas, Principal GHSS Ajas, and Dr. Mir Amina, Medical Officer Hajin, delivered insightful sessions on women’s safety, legal rights, health awareness, and women’s empowerment schemes, which were well received by the participants.

    JKWDC officials, including Mr. Tahir Parvez and Ms. Gul Yasmeen, District Manager (Bandipora–Srinagar–Budgam), briefed attendees about various loan products, eligibility criteria, and the benefits available under different schemes. They also extended gratitude to the higher authorities for enabling such outreach initiatives in rural pockets.

    A Welcome Address and Vote of Thanks were presented by Mr. Shabir Ahmad Wani, District Manager, who applauded the cooperation of all stakeholders in making the event successful.

    Reaffirming its mission, JKWDC pledged continued efforts toward women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship promotion, and financial inclusion across Jammu & Kashmir.

    The programme proceedings were conducted by Mr. Bilal Bhat, Social Reformer and Motivational Speaker.

  • DC Rajouri Conducts Surprise Inspections; Absenteeism Noticed in Multiple Offices : Orders deduction of one day’s salary of absentees

    DC Rajouri Conducts Surprise Inspections; Absenteeism Noticed in Multiple Offices : Orders deduction of one day’s salary of absentees

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI, NOV, 24:-Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, today conducted a series of surprise inspections across various government offices to assess functioning, service delivery, and staff attendance.

    During a surprise inspection at the Office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sunderbani, the Deputy Commissioner found four employees absent from duty without authorization. Strict directions were issued for immediate explanation from the concerned officials, and the controlling officer was instructed to initiate necessary action as per rules.

    The DC also inspected the Block Development Office (BDO) Siot, where he reviewed the attendance register, ongoing works, and public service delivery mechanisms.

    Later, the Deputy Commissioner conducted an inspection at Lamberi, during which eight employees were found absent. Taking serious note of the absenteeism, he directed strict disciplinary action and stressed that such negligence will not be tolerated, especially in public-facing departments.

    Reiterating the commitment of the district administration towards efficient governance, the Deputy Commissioner instructed all officers to maintain regular attendance, ensure timely delivery of public services, and uphold the highest standards of accountability.

    The Deputy Commissioner also stated that such inspections will continue in the coming days to ensure effective implementation of government schemes and responsive administration at all levels.