Author: ValleyObserver

Categories
BUSINESS

Over 8,000 new artisans trained in GI registered papier mache craft

Handicrafts & Handloom Dept refutes claims of art dying, published in a daily newspaper

 

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 31 – The Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir has strongly refuted certain portions of a news story published in a Local daily newspaper with headline – ‘The Art Will Die with Us’: Srinagar’s papier mache craftsmen battle extinction.

 

In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Department countered the claims made by Nasir Ahmad Mir, a papier mache craftsman, who was interviewed by a reporter for the news story published on 29.01.2026 of the said newspaper.

 

Giving details, the spokesperson stated that the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, has 19 training centres across Kashmir Division, imparting hands-on training in papier mache craft to around 400 artisans in elementary and advance training courses every year. “The Department has trained as many as 8,102 new papier mache artisans across the valley, who have taken the unique craft forward and carved out a niche for themselves,” he said, adding that a large number of papier mache artisans are still in the unorganised sector, who are being registered so that they can avail the benefits of various flagship schemes of the Government.

 

In order to promote and encourage artisans in papier mache craft, as many as 25 master craftsmen have been conferred with UT Awards over the last 10 years. “Apart from this, J&K has been made proud by papier mache craft maestros like Fayaz Ahmad Jan and Iqbal Hussain Khan, who have been conferred with Padma Shri & Shilp Guru awards respectively in recognition of their contribution in promotion of the craft,” he added.

Referring to the Department’s initiative of Know Your Artisan, under its Soulful Kashmir brand promotion, campaign, the spokesman said that special representation is made for papier mache craft, which remains the most popular, along with walnut wood carving, in the non-textile craft sector.

 

Apart from this, the spokesman added that a large number of papier mache artisans are recommended to JKTPO for participation in various J&K and national trade fairs, including IITF at Bharat Mandapam, Suraj Kund Mela in Haryana, Gandhi Shilp Bazaar and other high-profile events.

 

Dwelling upon the export potential of papier mache products, the spokesman stated that in the last 10 years, artefacts worth ₹212.06 Cr have been exported to outside destinations from Kashmir. “These figures remain the highest in respect of non-textile crafts in Kashmir Division,” he added.

 

In order to ensure the transition of skill from the master to the budding artisans, the Department has instituted a flagship Karkhandar Scheme in the department. “The scheme focuses on preserving traditional crafts such as papier mache, walnut wood carving, silver filigree, carpet weaving, Kani shawl weaving, Khatamband, and others like Sozni, tapestry, and engraved copperware,” he added.

 

Identifying the uniqueness of papier mache craft, both in sakhta and naqashi, the Department has obtained a GI registration for papier mache crafts from GI registry Chennai. “Authorised GI users can avail the facility of testing and QR Code based labelling at PTQCC, CDI, Srinagar, which shall go a long way in penetrating newer markets both within and outside the country.

Categories
CRIME

Police Solves Theft Case In Sopore; 2 Accused Arrested

Sopore, January 29: Police in Sopore have successfully solved a cattle theft case by arresting two accused persons involved in the commission of crime and recovered stolen cattle from their possession.

During the course of investigation of case FIR No. 21/2026 under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), several suspects were brought in for questioning. During sustained interrogation, one suspect Shakir Ahmad Dar son of Mohammad Ashraf Dar resident of Dangerpora Sopore confessed to his involvement in the commission of crime and further disclosed the role of another accused identified as Aadil Ashraf Dar son of Mohammad Ashraf Dar resident of Dangerpora Sopore.

Acting on the disclosure of the second accused, Police traced and recovered five heifer cows from Jahama Mawer, Handwara. Both the accused have been formally arrested in the case. Further investigation is underway to ascertain any additional linkages.

Police reiterate their commitment to swift investigation, protection of livelihood assets, and firm action against criminal elements.

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JAMMU

CM Omar Abdullah’s intervention leads to arrest in assault on Kashmiri shawl seller in Uttarakhand

Condemns attack on Kashmiris, urges Home Ministry to sensitise states

JAMMU, JANUARY 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken serious note of the incident involving the assault on a young Kashmiri shawl seller in Uttarakhand and initiated immediate steps to ensure accountability and safety of residents of Jammu and Kashmir living outside.

In this regard, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah spoke with the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, urging him to take strict action against those involved in the incident.

In a post on X, the Office of the Chief Minister, J&K, stated:

“Chief Minister spoke with the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, @pushkardhami, regarding the incident of assault on a young Kashmiri shawl seller in Uttarakhand and urged him to take strict action against the perpetrators. @pushkardhami assured that strict action, including registration of an FIR, would be taken in the matter and safety of J&K residents will be ensured.”

Subsequently, Uttarakhand Police took prompt action in the matter. In an official update, the police informed that FIR No. 26/2026 has been registered at Police Station Vikasnagar against the accused Sanjay Yadav and one other person under Sections 117(2) and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The update further stated: “The accused Sanjay Yadav has been taken into custody and necessary legal action is being initiated, and he will be sent to jail.”

Reacting to the incident and similar recent occurrences, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in a separate post on X, said:

“This recent series of attacks including in Himachal Pradesh and now this one are unacceptable and must stop. It can’t be claimed that J&K is an inalienable part of India while people from Kashmir, in other parts of the country, live in fear for their lives. My Government will step in wherever necessary & will do whatever is needed to ensure these incidents are not repeated. I hope Home Ministry, Govt of India will also sensitise other states on the same lines.”

The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, security, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir across the country and ensuring that such incidents are dealt with firmly and decisively.

An 18-year-old Kashmiri youth had sustained serious head injuries and fractures after being attacked by some shopkeepers while selling shawls along with his family.

Categories
EDUCATION

National Flag Unfurled at GCOE; Professor (Dr) Seema Naz Takes Salute

Srinagar, January 26: Government College of Education (Institute of Advanced Studies in Education), M.A. Road, Srinagar, celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great patriotism, enthusiasm, and fervour on its campus today.

The celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, and Principal of GCOE, Professor (Dr) Seema Naz, who also took the salute. The national anthem was sung with pride, creating a solemn and patriotic atmosphere across the campus.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of teaching and non-teaching staff along with a large number of students, who participated actively in the celebrations. The campus was decorated to mark the occasion, reflecting the spirit of national unity and constitutional values.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Seema Naz extended her greetings to all on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. She highlighted the historical significance of the day, recalling that the Constitution of India came into force on January 26, 1950, laying the foundation of a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.

She emphasized that educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation. Dr. Naz urged students to uphold constitutional values, promote unity in diversity, and contribute positively to the progress and development of the country through education, discipline, and social responsibility.

The programme concluded with a renewed pledge by the staff and students to work with dedication, integrity, and commitment towards nation-building and upholding the ideals enshrined in the Constitution of India.

Categories
CRIME

Police Solves Burglary Case Within 24 Hours In Sopore, Accused Arrested

Stolen Property Recovered

Sopore, January 24: Police in Sopore have solved a burglary case within 24 hours of its reporting, leading to the arrest of the accused and recovery of stolen property.

Police Station Sopore received a written complaint from Akash Ahmad Wani son of Hafeezullah Wani resident of Nowhamam, Sopore, stating that during the intervening night of 22/23 January 2026, unknown burglars broke open his shop located at Iqbal Market, Sopore, and stole crockery items etc. Accordingly, a case FIR No. 22/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Sopore, and investigation was initiated.

During the course of investigation, several suspects were examined and among them one suspect Danish Ahmad Gojri son of Mohammad Rajab Gojri resident of Badshah Masjid, Batpora, Sopore, confessed to his involvement in the burglary.

On his disclosure, Police recovered the stolen property worth lakhs of rupees from his possession. Subsequently, the accused has been arrested in the case. Further investigation is underway to ascertain any additional involvement or linkages.

Police reiterate their commitment to swift investigation, protection of property and commercial establishments and firm action against criminal elements, ensuring public confidence and safety.

 

Categories
EDUCATION

Focus on Academic Preparedness and Student Welfare at Kashmir Division Principals’ Meet: Director Colleges

Baramulla, January 22: Building on the deliberations held during the recent Principals’ Meeting of Jammu Division colleges, the Department of Higher Education continued its divisional review process with a comprehensive meeting of Principals of all Government Degree Colleges of the Kashmir Division. The meeting was chaired by the Director Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, and was aimed at assessing academic preparedness, reinforcing governance mechanisms and strengthening student-focused institutional practices across the Division.

The principal of the host institution, Prof. Mohd. Shafi Lone, Government Degree College Baramulla (Autonomous), extended a formal welcome to the participants and introduced the newly transferred Principals. It was highlighted that the decision to hold the first divisional meeting at an Autonomous college was a deliberate step to underscore the Department’s emphasis on academic autonomy, reflecting a clear policy direction towards expanding the number of autonomous institutions in the higher education sector in the near future.

In his address, the Director Colleges emphasised institutional cohesion, academic discipline and outcome-oriented governance as the foundational pillars for improving the quality of higher education. A detailed review of the Department’s digital governance was undertaken, reiterating the Planning & Development Portal of the Directorate of Colleges as the sole authenticated platform for institutional data, real-time reporting and delivery of online staff services. Principals were advised to ensure accuracy, regular updating and verification of institutional data to enable informed policy planning. It was also highlighted that the Department’s digital interventions, particularly the engagement of need-based Academic Arrangements during the current academic session, have been widely observed across colleges to significantly enhance operational efficiency, simplify processes and strengthen transparency.

The meeting reviewed college-wise performance under the Connect with Policy Planning & Development Initiative, with emphasis on timely data submission and institutional responsiveness. Principals were informed that sustained engagement in data-driven governance will continue to play a critical role in development and administrative decision-making.

Institutional development initiatives were deliberated in detail, including the functioning of Institutional Innovation Councils, the expansion of eYantra Labs, the implementation of SWAYAM Local Chapters for the promotion of blended education. The Action Taken Report (ATR) on eYantra was reviewed specifically, during which the Director Colleges directed all eYantra-enabled colleges to constitute one or more student teams for participation in the UT-level Hackathon proposed to be rolled out shortly, and participation of student teams trained by colleges in the national eYantra competitions organised and conducted by IIT Bombay.

Student welfare and engagement mechanisms received focused attention, particularly the strengthening of the Mentor–Mentee Programme for academic and psychosocial support, structured sports and co-curricular inclusive framework, and the Department’s institutional strategy for countering substance abuse through awareness, vigilance and early identification of vulnerabilities.

The SIGMA – Student Integrated Grievance and Messaging Application Portal was reviewed comprehensively, with college-wise registration performance shared. Principals were encouraged to further enhance student onboarding and effective utilisation of the platform to ensure secure and time-bound Messaging to students and timely grievance redressal.

In a major announcement, the Director Colleges informed the meeting about the rollout of the SCALE – Student Connect for Academic Leverage and Excellence initiative, envisioned as a comprehensive student outreach programme to offer continuous guidance on NEP-2020, academic mobility, progression pathways and career planning in all Government Degree Colleges.

The meeting also reviewed the status of ongoing developmental works being executed under various budget heads. Principals were advised to maintain close coordination with executing agencies and ensure regular monitoring of project timelines and quality parameters.

Concluding the deliberations, the Director Colleges reiterated that teaching and non-teaching staff are the primary drivers of institutional quality and urged Principals to cultivate a supportive and motivated work environment. He called upon all institutions to collectively advance the Department’s mission through transparency, accountability and student-centric governance, so that Government Degree Colleges of Jammu & Kashmir continue to emerge as vibrant centres of academic excellence and societal transformation.

Categories
BUSINESS

New Lease of Life for Kashmir’s Namda Craft

In-house wool carding to cut outsourcing costs and strengthen livelihoods of Namda artisans

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 21: In a major fillip for revival of the indigenous Namda craft of Kashmir, Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir today awarded contract for the Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning (SITC) of card cloth for wool carding machine through Mechanical & Hospitals Engineering Department.

The commissioned wool carding machine has an annual processing capacity of approximately 29,000 Kgs of wool. This enhanced capacity is expected to significantly strengthen the local value chain associated with the traditional Namda craft. The installation of this facility will substantially reduce the cost incurred on outsourcing wool carding, thereby directly benefiting artisans engaged in the Namda craft.

In a press statement issued by the department today, Deputy Director UNDP, Mirza Shahid Ali, said J&K is the second largest producer of wool fibre in India and ranks first in the production of Merino wool, despite this advantage, a substantial portion of raw wool has traditionally been sent outside J&K for carding, resulting in higher costs and delays.

He further stated, “This initiative is cost-effective, efficient and less labour-intensive and will play a major role in strengthening sustainable livelihoods, enhancing productivity and preserving Kashmir’s rich handicraft heritage, especially Namda which is in a revival mode”.

The department reiterated its commitment to providing modern infrastructure and technical support to traditional crafts, ensuring their revival, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

Categories
JAMMU

PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Where rooftops turn into powerhouses for the households

JAMMU, JANUARY 21: The implementation of the Prime Minister’s flagship PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) has gained remarkable traction in Jammu & Kashmir, positioning the Union Territory at the forefront of India’s household-level renewable energy revolution.
Designed to provide free electricity up to 300 units per month through grid-connected rooftop solar systems, the scheme is rapidly transforming energy consumption patterns while strengthening energy self-reliance and sustainability across urban and rural households.
Backed by strong administrative oversight and a robust digital delivery framework, the scheme is being rolled out in a structured, transparent, and time-bound manner, reflecting the UT Administration’s commitment to clean energy adoption and consumer-centric governance.

Impressive On-Ground Progress
As of 31 December 2025, the scheme has recorded robust physical and financial progress. A total of 17,998 rooftop solar systems have been installed across Jammu & Kashmir, with 16,284 systems already commissioned and feeding clean power into the grid.
The financial impact is equally significant. Subsidies have been disbursed to 14,889 beneficiaries by the Central Government and 2,234 beneficiaries by the UT Government, with cumulative releases amounting to ₹129.57 crore from the Centre and ₹2.99 crore from the UT, underscoring the scale and seriousness of implementation.

Consumer-Friendly Subsidy Structure
The subsidy architecture under PM Surya Ghar has been designed to deliver maximum financial relief to households across different system capacities. For a 1 kW rooftop solar system, against an average project cost of ₹55,000, consumers receive ₹33,000 as MNRE subsidy and ₹3,000 as UT subsidy, bringing the total subsidy to ₹36,000.
Similarly, 2 kW systems receive a total subsidy of ₹72,000, while 3 kW systems attract a combined subsidy of ₹94,800, substantially reducing upfront costs. This carefully calibrated subsidy framework has made rooftop solar installations financially viable and attractive, particularly for middle-income and lower-income households, accelerating adoption across the UT.

Digital Outreach and Vibrant Vendor Ecosystem
The scheme’s fully digital execution model has ensured transparency, speed, and ease of access for consumers. The national portal has received 86,905 consumer applications, reflecting strong public enthusiasm and awareness.
To support this surge in demand, a robust vendor ecosystem has been developed, with 1,403 vendors registered across the UT. Vendor-consumer agreements have been signed in 11,779 cases, while access to affordable finance has been facilitated through institutional mechanisms.

Availability of Attractive Finance for RTS installation
A total of 26,225 loan applications have been submitted, of which 16,186 loans have already been disbursed at a special interest rate of around 7% per annum, covering up to 95% of the project cost. This financial support has ensured that even households with limited upfront resources can participate in the solar transition. Additionally, 2,285 sites have already received material delivery, reflecting steady on-ground progress.

Strong Institutional Framework and Policy Support
The scheme’s implementation is being closely monitored at the highest administrative level, with the Chief Secretary personally overseeing progress and coordination. Both power distribution utilities—Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL)—have been designated as State Implementing Agencies, ensuring seamless execution across all districts.
In a significant policy intervention aimed at enhancing affordability, the UT Government opted to supplement the Central Financial Assistance (CFA) provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) with an additional UT subsidy. This decision led to the sanction of ₹53.53 crore from the UT Budget for supporting 85,000 residential beneficiaries over a three-year period from 2024–25 to 2026–27, reinforcing the Administration’s pro-people approach.

Awareness, Capacity Building and Technical Preparedness
Recognising that awareness and technical competence are key to sustained success, the UT Administration has undertaken extensive outreach and capacity-building initiatives. Over 37.90 lakh bulk SMS messages have been disseminated to inform consumers, complemented by 923 IEC campaigns conducted across districts.
On the technical front, 138 structured training programmes have been organised, with 2,600 engineers trained to ensure quality installations, grid safety, and long-term system reliability.

Responsive Grievance Redressal
A strong and responsive grievance redressal mechanism has been institutionalised to maintain consumer confidence. Out of 1,157 grievances received from consumers and vendors, 1,154 have already been resolved, reflecting the Administration’s emphasis on accountability and service delivery.

Driving Sustainable Development and Energy Security
The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is fast emerging as a transformational initiative in Jammu & Kashmir. Beyond substantially reducing electricity bills—even making them zero for many households—the scheme is strengthening grid resilience through decentralized generation and reducing dependence on conventional power sources.
With strong policy backing, substantial financial support, and enthusiastic public participation, Jammu & Kashmir is steadily advancing towards its renewable energy targets while contributing meaningfully to India’s national climate and energy security goals.
The J&K Administration remains firmly committed to scaling up rooftop solar adoption and ensuring that the benefits of this landmark initiative reach every eligible household within the stipulated timeline, ushering in a cleaner, greener, and more self-reliant energy future for the Union Territory.

Categories
NEWS

Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain calls on The President

New Delhi, January 21: H.E. Mr Jose Manuel Albares, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, called on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (January 21, 2026).

Welcoming Mr Albares at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President said that relations between India and Spain go back centuries, enriched by trade, culture and shared values of democracy and pluralism. She noted that this year is 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, which is being marked by celebrating the ‘India-Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence’.

The President said that India and Spain have a steadily growing economic relationship, with expanding trade and investment. She said that Spain’s strengths in engineering, railways, renewable energy, urban services, and defence aerospace complement India’s development priorities. She expressed confidence that with the signing of India – EU FTA, the trade relationship between the two countries will further be strengthened.

The President said that as strong adherents to multilateralism, India and Spain must work together on multilateral platforms such as the UN and G-20 to further our shared goals of peace, prosperity and stability across the world.

The President underlined that India and Spain have a shared position on countering the menace of terrorism which remains a serious threat to global peace and stability. She said that we must pool our resources and capabilities to together fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The President said that India’s relationship with Europe and European Union is growing steadily, and that we are looking forward to welcoming the President of European Council and the President of European Commission as Chief Guests for our 77th Republic Day.

Categories
CRIME

Police secures conviction in NDPS case in Ganderbal; Accused sentenced to 05 years rigorous imprisonment

Ganderbal, January 2026: In a significant achievement in its sustained fight against drug menace, Police in Ganderbal have secured conviction in an NDPS case, reinforcing its commitment towards a drug-free society.

The Hon’ble Sessions Court Ganderbal, after appreciating the meticulous investigation and strong prosecution put forth by the police, convicted accused Abdul Gani Sheikh son of Abdul Ahad Sheikh resident of Wanihama-Bala Nagbal, Ganderbal, in case FIR No.230/2017, under section 8/20 of the NDPS Act of PS Ganderbal.

The Court sentenced the convicted accused to 05 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs.25,000 underscoring the seriousness of offences related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

This conviction is the result of professional investigation, effective supervision, and coordinated efforts by the J&K Police, which ensured collection of credible evidence and its successful presentation before the court. The case was meticulously prosecuted by PP Shafat Ahmad and the arguments were put up by PP Syed Jahangir Rafeeqi which has resulted in the conviction.

J&K Police reiterates its resolve to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and abuse, and appeals to the general public to cooperate by sharing any information related to narcotics, assuring strict action against offenders as per law.

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