Category: JAMMU

JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired the 52nd meeting of the Board of Directors of the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board (J&KHB) at the Civil Secretariat here, where detailed deliberations were held on key policy and administrative matters.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department Mandeep Kaur, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Director General Codes and Director General Budget, Managing Director, J&K Housing Board while as other senior officers posted outside Jammu participated through video conference.

The Board reviewed the minutes of the 51st meeting of the Board of Directors held on June 28, 2024 and action taken on the decisions.

During the meeting, the Board considered several agenda points, including proposals for development of a Mass Housing Colony at Birpur in Tehsil Bari Brahmana, District Samba, and construction of housing facilities on 41 Kanal 05 Marlas of land at Bhalwal, Jammu.

The Board also held detailed discussions on implementation of the J&K Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme, 2022 through the J&K Housing Board, engaging of legal counsel for court cases and filing of appeals before the Hon’ble High Court in various matters, and budgetary proposals for the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26.

Chairing the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized timely execution of housing projects, transparency in decision-making and strict monitoring of timelines.

He directed that certain agenda items be reconsidered and revised to ensure greater financial prudence, technical soundness and long-term public benefit before being taken up for final decision.

He further directed the Housing Board to fast-track project implementation, adopt modern project management practices and ensure that affordable, safe and quality housing is delivered to the people, particularly to middle and lower income groups, emphasizing that projects to provide affordable housing for all sections of the society is the essential purpose for which J&K Housing Board has been established.

The Chief Minister also stressed rationalization of institutional structures, strengthening of financial discipline and enhanced coordination among departments to make the Housing Board more efficient and citizen-centric.

JAMMU, DECEMBER 08: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday interacted with veterans of Armed Forces at Lok Bhavan Jammu.
He expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces and paid tributes to the martyrs. He stated that the nation will always remain indebted to the sacrifices made by the soldiers.
The Lieutenant Governor made generous contributions towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said the Armed Forces Flag Day, which was observed on 07th December 2025, reminds the citizens of the nation that the well-being of the Armed Forces Personnel is the collective responsibility of the nation and every individual must contribute to support the Armed Forces who safeguard the integrity of the Nation.
The Lieutenant Governor appealed to the people to contribute towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said that the fund will be used in the welfare of service personnel, their families, and ex-servicemen and their families.
Brig. Pankaj Chib (Retd), Director Sainik Welfare Department; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; veterans and officials of Sainik Welfare Department including Col BS Sambyal, (Retd.), Col Manjit Singh Bhau (Retd.) Wg Cdr Tirath Singh (Retd.), Capt (IN) Kapil Sharma (Retd.), Shri Tanvir Singh, Shri Pawan Anand, Shri Jagbir Singh, Shri Subash Chander and Ms Anshu Dogra were present.

RAJOURI, DECEMBER 06: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today conducted an extensive visit to Nowshera division to review the progress on various major development projects being executed across key sectors.

The Deputy Chief Minister assessed the status of works taken up by PWD (R&B), PMGSY and the Education sector. He emphasized timely completion and adherence to quality benchmarks in all ongoing projects.

Issues pertaining to the Forest sector were also discussed, with directions issued for addressing the pending matters in a time-bound manner.

The Deputy Chief Minister, later, inspected the ongoing works at the PWD Dak Bungalow Nowshera and reviewed the progress on construction of the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) building. He instructed the concerned executing agencies to fast-track the remaining works and ensure that facilities are made operational at the earliest.

During his visit to SDH Nowshera, the Dy CM interacted with the patients and staff to assess service delivery. He directed the health functionaries to maintain high standards of patient care.

Surinder Choudhary also reviewed the works being executed under the Rural Development Department (RDD). He assessed the progress on projects being executed by BRO, reiterating the importance of connectivity and rural infrastructure in overall development.

The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by SE PWD (R&B), ACD, DFO besides other district and sectoral officers.

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.

LG highlights the role of literature in nation-building; urges the poets to create stronger national identity and social cohesion through their expression

Poets and writers must strengthen the unity, counter secessionist attempts to divide and radicalise youth in Kashmir valley: LG

We should also focus on promoting regional literature to fully capitalize on its potential for social harmony and national strength: LG Sinha

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 28: “Poets and writers must strengthen the unity, counter secessionist attempts to divide and radicalise youth in Kashmir valley,” the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said on Friday. He was speaking at the ‘Kavi Sammelan’ organised by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the role of literature in nation-building. He urged the poets to create stronger national identity and social cohesion through their expression.
“We should also focus on promoting regional literature to fully capitalize on its potential for social harmony and national strength,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He emphasised that, for a self-reliant and developed India, both art and artificial intelligence, Science and Sanskar are crucial. He said literature, music, and poetry strengthen democratic values and provide society much needed cultural and spiritual nourishment.
“Poetry serves not just as a foundation of social consciousness, but also as a pinnacle of society’s resolve. Poetry acts as a bridge between dreams and its actualization. Poetry is also a catalyst for individual growth and inspires social transformation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor spoke on the key initiatives taken by the UT administration, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to revive the ancient literary tradition and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The last five years have been decisive for the Union Territory of J&K. We have diligently strived to provide a safe and culturally-rich environment for the new generation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The enthralling poem recital by eminent poet Dr Kumar Vishwas remained the main highlights of the literary evening.
The program also featured captivating poetry from the renowned poets: Shri Sudeep Bhola, Shri Ramesh Muskan, Ms. Padmini Sharma, and Shri Kushal Kushlendra.
Shri Tarun Bajaj, Executive Director, Northern Region Transmission System-II, Power Grid; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Shri SK Chowan, Chief General Manager (Projects), Power Grid; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Dr Devansh Yadav, Municipal Commissioner Jammu, senior officials, prominent citizens, literary personalities and youth in large number were present.

SAMBA, NOVEMBER 27: Brig Pankaj Chib, SM, VSM (retd) has taken over as the new Director Sainik Welfare Department, J&K and Secretary, Rajya Sainik Board J&K today. A highly distinguished Army veteran, Brig Pankaj Chib, SM, VSM, Retd brings with him over 35 years of exemplary service to the nation.
A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Brig Pankaj Chib, (Retd) has held numerous operational assignments during his career and has been honoured with the Sena Medal and the Vishisht Seva Medal for his outstanding contributions. His career profile includes the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), the Higher Command Course and programmes at LBSNAA and IIM Indore. He holds a Master’s in Defence & Strategic Studies and an M.Phil in Defence & Management Studies and has also trained foreign army personnel.
He is widely admired for advocating veterans’ welfare and has been contributing to the resolution of a long-standing welfare matter impacting more than 500 members of the armed forces community in J&K. His steady involvement in the issue reflects his commitment to fairness, transparency and the well-being of serving personnel, veterans and Veer Naris.
Colleagues note that his efforts have given renewed visibility and momentum to a case that had remained unresolved for years.

Stresses on timely funds utilization and visible impact on ground

 

POONCH, NOVEMBER 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today conducted an extensive review of the developmental landscape of Poonch district, taking a detailed assessment of the pace of ongoing works, funds utilisation and overall progress of key infrastructure projects and welfare schemes.
Chairing the high-level meeting, the Chief Minister underscored the need for timely utilisation of allocated funds, strict adherence to set timelines and ensuring visible outcomes on the ground. He directed all departments to accelerate project execution so that benefits reach people without delay.
The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javed Ahmed Dar, and Satish Sharma; Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani; the District Development Council Chairperson; and the MLAs of Poonch district. Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Poonch, senior district officers, heads of departments and other concerned officials were also present.
Representatives from Poonch, including the DDC Chairperson and MLA Poonch-Haveli Ajaz Ahmed Jan and MLA Surankote Choudhary Mohammad Akram raised several issues and demands related to infrastructure gaps, public service delivery and sector-specific priorities of the district.
Responding to the submissions, the Chief Minister assured that all issues, grievances, and demands of the people of Poonch will be addressed on priority. He reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development and stressed on the need to resolve administrative and procedural hurdles to ensure seamless progress.
He noted that the government’s top priority is the holistic development of far-flung and remote areas and district-wise review meetings are being conducted to understand local needs and developmental expectations directly from stakeholders.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the government has intensified its focus on strengthening road connectivity, upgrading public infrastructure, improving educational facilities and boosting the economic growth of the region. These interventions, he said, are vital for ensuring equitable growth and improving the quality of life of the people.
He directed officials to maintain close interdepartmental coordination, regularly monitor progress and ensure accountability at all levels.
At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma delivered a presentation on the status of projects under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), UT capex, and various flagship programmes. He highlighted some bottlenecks and issues affecting project completion.
The Deputy Commissioner informed that the district has recorded substantial progress under the District Capex Budget, including achievements in road connectivity, water supply, education, health, rural development, social welfare and power infrastructure. Key ongoing works include the NH-144A tunnel, RTS double-lane road, Parnai Hydroelectric Project, construction of girls’ hostels and G&B hostels, Mini Secretariats at Poonch and Mendhar, Eklavya Model Residential School and major bridges at Mandi and Mendhar. The meeting was informed that over
1,100 bunkers have been completed, significantly enhancing border-area safety.
It was further informed that under social sector schemes, Poonch achieved 100% family coverage under Ayushman Bharat–Sehat scheme, full saturation under NSAP, and high progress in PMAY, PM-Poshan, PM SHRI, and PMMVY. Agriculture and allied sectors also reported notable achievements under HADP, including protected cultivation, mushroom units, bee-keeping clusters, mechanisation support, and soil-testing facilities.
The Chief Minister called for time-bound resolution of pending issues, including completion of the Mini Secretariat buildings, BRO-related road matters, and clearance of SDRF liabilities, to further accelerate the district’s development momentum.
Later, the Chief Minister, along-with his Cabinet colleagues, e-inaugurated five key development projects worth ₹13.54 crore for Poonch district, including a modern compost making unit at Mendhar and multiple Water Supply Schemes across Haveli and Surankote.
These initiatives will strengthen agriculture, improve safe drinking water access and enhance quality of life for the people.

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today laid the foundation stone for setting up of an Automated Vehicle Testing Station (ATS) at Khanpur, Nagrota, Jammu, marking a significant stride towards strengthening road safety and modernising transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Minister said that the establishment of the state-of-the-art Automated Testing Station will usher in a more transparent, efficient and technology-driven vehicle fitness regime.
He noted that such facilities are essential for reducing road accidents, ensuring compliance with safety standards and curbing manual irregularities in the fitness certification process.
Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s commitment to adopting modern systems and improving public service delivery across various departments.
The foundation laying ceremony was attended by Minister for Transport Satish Sharma, Secretary Transport Avny Lavasa, Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan, Regional Transport Officer Jammu and other senior officers of the Transport Department.

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 24: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday visited the Commando Training Centre (CTC) of Jammu Kashmir Police at Sunjwan, Jammu.

The Lieutenant Governor reviewed the training programme on various specialized modules and other activities conducted during the training courses. He was briefed on the operational preparedness, specialised counter-terror and tactical training to the trainees.

The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with the J&K Police personnel undergoing training at CTC.

SSP, Training and Special Operations gave a detailed presentation on various components of training and proposed upgradation and infrastructure expansion of the centre.

The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Shri Nalin Prabhat, Director General of Police; Shri S.J.M. Gillani, Special Director General (Coordination), PHQ J&K; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home Department; Shri M.K Sinha, ADGP Headquarters and Director SSG; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP, Jammu; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu and other senior officials.

 

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 23: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Sunday chaired a high-level meeting to review the security situation in Jammu Division.

The meeting was attended by Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri S.J.M. Gillani, Special Director General (Coordination), PHQ J&K; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; Shri Nitish Kumar, ADGP CID; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP, Jammu; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; M. Suleman Choudhary, IGP Traffic; DIGs, Deputy Commissioners and SSPs of Jammu Division.

The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir Police for its meticulous investigation and quick response in dismantling the Pan-India Terror Network.

“Our 360-degree approach to counter-terrorism with massive crackdowns on terror financing, narco-terror links, Over Ground Workers (OGWs), and sympathizers is focused on dismantling the entire support structure to terrorists. Our coordinated efforts will ensure that the remnants of terror ecosystem are completely wiped-out from Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials to remain vigilant and watchful of emerging security challenges.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasised on Zero Tolerance Policy against terrorism and asked the officials to take strongest possible action against terror sympathizers, OGWs and terror elements who are trying to radicalize youth.

He directed the officials to intensify intelligence-led operations against terrorists and concerted efforts to monitor digital platforms being used by terror outfits for radicalization and funding.