SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 05: A two-day Trainee Products’ Sale, organised by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, began at Kashmir Haat, popularly known as Numaish Gah, here today.
Craft products made by trainees in 432 Training Centres across all 10 districts of Kashmir Division as well as hand-knotted woollen carpets made under Massive Carpet Scheme are on display and sale on extremely affordable prices, without adding the cost of labour.
In a press handout issued here today, a spokesman of the department stated that visitors in large number turned up at Kashmir Haat to buy handmade products, on cost-to-cost raw material basis. “District stalls are expected to record good sales with many buyers making purchase of GI-tagged Pashmina Shawls and Stoles, Crewel curtains, Sozni-embroidered shawls, Zari & Aari embroidered suits, tweed cloth, Chain Stitch rugs and cushion covers, Tapestry, Gabb and Namda products as well as papier mache and willow wicker souvenir and decor items,” he said, adding the sale will conclude tomorrow at 5.00 pm.
The spokesman stated that the hand-knotted woollen carpets made by weavers under Massive Carpet Scheme also received an overwhelming response with many carpets sold.
The Department also organised an awareness camp for trainees where they were sensitized about various flagship and welfare schemes of the department like Credit Card Scheme for Artisans and Weavers, Financial Support for Cooperatives & Karkhandar Schemes, the spokesman added.
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 05: The Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar and its associated hospitals (SMHS/SSH) and other partner facilities have successfully maintained uninterrupted diagnostic services over the past two days despite the scheduled shutdown of the MRI unit at Shireen Bagh.
During the 48 hour period, a total of 67 MRI scans and 220 CT scans were completed across the network, ensuring that patients who required imaging continued to receive care without delay.
The MRI at Shireen Bagh was taken offline on 4 December 2025 for an urgent de‑icing and repair procedure. A routine inspection had revealed ice buildup in the magnet’s venting system, which could have led to a helium leak and posed a safety risk to patients and staff. Prompt maintenance is essential to restore the unit to optimal performance and guarantee long‑term safety.
Logistic support, including patient transport and technical staff, was mobilised to move individuals whose scans were scheduled at Shireen Bagh to other GMC Srinagar facilities, allowing the workflow to continue smoothly.
The hospital administration thanks patients, staff, and partner institutions for their cooperation and reaffirms its commitment to maintaining seamless diagnostic services throughout the maintenance period and beyond.
Awantipora, December 4: The 6th Vice Chancellor’s Rolling Trophy Cricket Tournament (Employees) was inaugurated today at the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) by Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST. The tournament has been organized by the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports and witnessed enthusiastic participation from university employees. Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, and Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi Registrar, IUST, were the inaugural ceremony as Guests of Honour. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Mr. Sameer Wazir Finance Officer, Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research, Dr. Mohd. Imran, University Librarian, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Rather and Dr. Mubashir Hussain, Assistant Directors, Directorate of Physical Education & Sports, along with various Heads of departments. In his inaugural address, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo congratulated the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports for organizing the event and expressed happiness over the active participation of faculty and staff members. He emphasized that such sporting events promote teamwork, discipline, and a healthy work culture within the institution. He added that sports not only build physical fitness but also strengthen institutional harmony and emotional well-being, which are vital for academic excellence. The first match was played between Administration Team-A and the School of Business Studies, and different employee teams will participate in the tournament in the coming days.
Also lays foundation for ₹22-cr Lasjan–Kadlabal road upgrade and Sukhnag steel-girder Bridge at Beerwah
BUDGAM, DECEMBER 04: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated and laid e-foundation stones for a series of transformative development projects in Budgam district worth nearly ₹100 crore, giving a major push to local infrastructure and public services.
The projects include multiple Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) Water Supply Schemes across Gudsathoo, Dreygam, Drang, Kultreh Wanpora, Qazipora, Awanpora, Rangreth Wavoosa, Checkmari Colony, Nowbugh, Delipora Badipora and Zaloosa, aimed at providing reliable and safe drinking water to thousands of households.
In addition, the Chief Minister inaugurated works for a Multi-Level Car Parking facility, announced the upgradation of the Kadalbal–Lasjan Road, and laid the foundation stone for the construction of a 2×35 m Steel Truss Bridge over Nallah Sukhnag at Beerwah, in order to significantly improve traffic flow, connectivity and commuter convenience in the area.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Speaker Legislative Assembly & MLA Charar-i-Sharief, Advocate Abdul Raheem Rather; Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmad Rana; Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi; MLA Beerwah, Shafi Ahmed Wani; MLA Chadoora, Ali Mohammad Dar; MLA Khan Sahib, Saifud-din Bhat, along with senior officers and officials from the concerned departments.
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 04: A day after distributing compassionate appointment orders in Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today handed over SRO-43 and RAS-2022 appointment orders to beneficiaries at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to provide support to the bereaved families.
The Chief Minister handed over appointment and regularisation orders to 54 beneficiaries from various districts of Kashmir, marking another significant step toward clearing the backlog of cases under both SRO-43 and RAS-2022.
The event was attended by Minister Javaid Ahmad Rana, Commissioner Secretary GAD M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner SMC Faz Lul Haseeb, senior civil administration officers, and a large gathering of beneficiaries and their families.
In his address, the Chief Minister—who also holds the charge of the General Administration Department—reiterated the Government’s resolve to dispose of all pending cases under SRO-43 and RAS-2022 in a time-bound, transparent manner, with relaxations extended wherever warranted under the policy.
Expressing empathy with families who approach the Government following personal bereavement, the Chief Minister underscored that compassionate appointments are rights guaranteed under an established policy framework, not acts of favour. He said the Government’s endeavour is to stand firmly with the affected families during their most difficult moments and provide them the institutional support they are entitled to.
Chief Minister said that the lacunae in processing the cases need to be corrected so that the onus is on Government to complete the formalities rather than candidates having to run from pillar to post to obtain clearances and in pursuing submission of their cases from subordinate offices which takes months together causing further hardship to applicant
Sopore, December 04: Police in Sopore have successfully solved a theft case by arresting 07 accused persons involved in the commission of crime and recovered stolen property from their possession.
Police Station Panzalla received a complaint from Suheel Shafi Mir, Assistant Executive Engineer, Mechanical New Lift Sub-Division (MICD) Srinagar, regarding theft at Lift Irrigation Scheme Check-Gujri Station (Stage 2nd). Accordingly, FIR No. 66/2025 under relevant sections of law was registered at PS Panzalla and investigation was initiated.
During the investigation, multiple suspects were questioned. One suspect namely Ubaid Riyaz Dar son of Riyaz Ahmad Dar resident of Untoo Hamam Sopore confessed his involvement in the commission of crime. During further questioning, he further revealed that he along with other five associates, had committed the theft. They have been identified as Kaiser Ahmad Dar son of Ghulam Hassan Dar, Kaiser Nazir Dar son of Nazir Ahmad Dar, Majid Ahmad Dar @Muqaib son of Mehraj-ud-Din Dar, Javaid Ahmad Dar so of Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Dar and Usman Nazir Dar son of Nazir Ahmad Dar, all residents of Ningli Sopore.
He further disclosed that the stolen items had been sold to a scrap dealer identified as Bilal Ahmad Dar son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Dar resident of Ningli Sopore.
Acting on this disclosure, Police recovered the stolen property from a godown located at Sofi Akbar Road, Bypass Ningli Sopore. All the accused have been arrested and shifted to police station where they remain in custody.
J&K Police reaffirm their commitment to swift investigation, timely action and protection of public property. Further investigation in the case is underway.
Promises transparency, simplified process in compassionate appointments
JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reiterated his government’s commitment to clearing the backlog of compassionate appointments under SRO-43 and the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS-2022), assuring that all necessary relaxations would be granted wherever required to simplify and make the entire process fully transparent.
The Chief Minister was speaking at a function organised at the Convention Centre here where he handed over appointment orders to candidates under SRO-43 and RAS-2022, besides issuing regularisation orders to Contingent Paid Workers (CPWs) of the School Education Department.
The event was attended by Minister Sakina Itoo, Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary GAD M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Secretary School Education Ram Nivas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, and a large gathering of beneficiaries and family members.
In his address, the Chief Minister, who is the Minister in charge of the General Administration Department, assured the beneficiaries that the government is determined to clear the backlog of cases under SRO-43 and RAS-2022.
“As far as the orders of SRO-43 are concerned, I assure you that we will try our best to dispose of the pending cases. We will grant relaxation in cases as per the norms and make this process as transparent as possible,” the Chief Minister said.
Expressing deep empathy with families who approach the government during their most difficult hours, the Chief Minister stressed that compassionate appointments are not acts of favour but rightful entitlements under an established policy.
“On behalf of the government, our only effort is to help you in this difficult time. You should not feel that you are alone or that no one stands with you. If the government supports you in your moment of helplessness, this is not a favour—this is your right.”
Speaking about the long-pending cases of CPWs and their regularisation, the Chief Minister said
“For CPWs, this day carries a different meaning. As Sakina Sahiba has already mentioned, we will do our best to regularise CPW and issue orders. For those under RAS and SRO-43, I know many of you have suffered a lot to reach here. And I apologise to you for that.”
Regarding delay in processing of SRO 43/ RAS cases, he said
“This should not happen. When there is a government system, it should work automatically. I assure you—we will simplify the procedure further. We will reduce the difficulties you face. Since I hold the GAD portfolio myself, I will personally ensure that bottlenecks are removed.”
The Chief Minister said delivering these orders is a matter of duty, not generosity.
“If we increase your problems during this difficult time, we fail in our duty. These compassionate jobs are your right, and delivering them is our responsibility. If you had to wait long, I apologise for that. But I promise we will do everything possible to make the process easier.”
He urged the newly appointed beneficiaries to shoulder their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication.
“A heavy responsibility has come your way, perhaps earlier than expected. Do your best to fulfil it. We will always stand with you to make your work easier. If you face any difficulty, do not hesitate to knock on my door—I am always there for you.”
The Chief Minister added that more regularisation orders for CPWs would soon be issued by the Education Department under the supervision of Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo.
Speaking on the occasion, Sakina Itoo said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accorded top priority to clearing SRO-43 and RAS-2022 cases to ensure long-pending grievances are addressed.
She noted that many deserving candidates had been waiting for nearly a decade.
“After around 10 years of struggle, the deserving candidates finally received their due under the present government,” she said.
The Minister added that the regularisation of CPWs aligns with the government’s broader vision of extending relief to those who have devoted precious years of service to the School Education Department.
JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: A United Kingdom based Business delegation led by Shri Vikrant Gupta, Managing Director, RVS iGlobal called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, today.
The delegation discussed important matters pertaining to Jammu’s growing IT infrastructure, support for digital expansion, and opportunities to strengthen international cooperation in the technology and services sector.
JAMMU, DECEMBER 02: Director Colleges J&K, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir conducted an extensive tour of the Government Degree Colleges in the Pir Panjal region to gain firsthand insight into academic activities and engage directly with students and faculty to know their concerns, challenges and expectations.
During interactive sessions at GDC Rajouri, GDC Poonch and GDC Surankote, the Director Colleges highlighted the significance of SIGMA – the Student Integrated Grievance and Messaging Application. He urged the students to subscribe to the platform immediately, describing it as a major reform initiative aimed at empowering students with real-time updates on departmental initiatives and offering them a direct channel for redressal of issues that may lie beyond the scope of individual Colleges.
The Director Colleges also briefed students on the key takeaways of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), particularly the academic flexibility provided through multiple entry and exit options. He encouraged students to make informed use of these provisions to shape their academic trajectories.
In the meetings with faculty members, the Director reiterated the importance of strengthening the Mentor–Mentee Model, noting that an effective mentoring system is crucial for addressing emerging challenges, including concerns related to substance abuse. He sought full cooperation from faculty to ensure the meaningful implementation of the model across campuses.
At GDC Poonch, the Director Colleges congratulated Principal Dr. Jasbir Singh for initiating the process for seeking Autonomous Status for the college immediately following his visit in August. Expressing satisfaction, he noted that achieving autonomous status would position the institution for academic excellence and institutional innovation.
The Director Colleges also held a detailed interaction with the Boarders of both the Girls’ and Boys’ Hostels at GDC Poonch. The issues concerning hostel facilities were discussed and necessary directions were issued for their prompt redressal.
During his visit to GDC Rajouri, the Director Colleges underscored the academic vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its emphasis on granting greater autonomy to progressive higher education institutions.
While discussing the prospects of Autonomous Status under NEP, he stated that autonomy offers substantial institutional advantages, including enhanced academic flexibility, scope for curricular innovation, independent examination and evaluation systems and a stronger institutional identity. He highlighted that, as the oldest and largest college in the district, GDC Rajouri is well-positioned to approach the UGC for the grant of Autonomous Status, noting that the present moment is both appropriate and opportune for the institution to submit its application in line with UGC norms.
At GDC Surankote, the issue of student absenteeism was deliberated extensively. The Director impressed upon the college administration the need to strictly adhere to the Directorate’s Policy Planning and Development Portal for the digital on boarding of students, ensuring transparency, accountability and improved student engagement. The visit concluded with the Director reaffirming the Department’s commitment to strengthening academic ecosystems, improving student well-being and accelerating reform initiatives across all degree colleges in the region.
Sopore, December 1: J&K Police in Sopore have solved 02 theft cases by apprehending 02 accused persons involved in the commission of crime and recovered stolen property from their possession.
Police Station Bomai received a complaint from Abdul Rashid Mir, resident of Nathipora, regarding theft of goods from his shop, (Al-Fajar Departmental Store). Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 60/2025 under Sections 305, 331(4) BNS was registered and investigation was initiated. During the enquiry, several suspects were examined, and on 29 November 2025, one suspect person namely Ghulam Mohammad Lone, son of Abdul Jabbar Lone, resident of Yahama Handwara was brought in for questioning. The accused confessed to his involvement in the crime and disclosed that the stolen items had been concealed in an orchard near the river at Nathipora. Acting on this disclosure, Police recovered the stolen property.
Moreover, Police Post Bus Stand received a complaint from Ghulam Mohammad Kanjwal, resident of Sir Syed Abad, regarding theft of cash from his bakery shop. Acting swiftly, FIR No. 268/2025 under Sections 305, 331(3) BNS was registered and investigation was initiated. Within 12 hours of the commission of the offence, the accused person Shakir Sadiq Bhat was traced and apprehended from the premises of SDH Sopore. During questioning, he confessed to his involvement in the crime and revealed the location of the stolen cash, which was subsequently recovered.
J&K Police reaffirm their commitment to swift investigation, timely action, and the protection of public property. Further investigation in both cases is underway.
