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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.

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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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BUSINESS

J&K Bank Net Profit jumps over 10% YoY for Q3

Characterized by robust top-line growth and better asset quality, our performance underscores our strong fundamentals: MD & CEO

Srinagar, January 20: J&K Bank today announced healthy financial results for the October-December quarter (Q3 FY 25-26), with net profit rising by 18.7% Quarter-on-Quarter and 10.4% year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 586.73 Cr when compared to Rs 531.51 Cr recorded during the same period last fiscal.

The Bank’s Board of Directors approved the numbers for the quarter and nine-months during a meeting held today at the Bank’s Divisional Office in Jammu.

Meanwhile, the Bank’s net profit for the first nine months of current financial year grew 4.5% YoY to Rs 1565.68 Cr as against Rs 1497.92 Cr recorded for the same period last year, reflecting its sustained growth trajectory.

Operating Highlights

The Bank’s Net Interest Margin (NIM) for the quarter has improved to 3.62%, up by 6 bps QoQ. Cost-to-Income Ratio of the Bank improved to 55.88% YoY for the quarter from 57.28%, while as Return on Assets (RoA) for nine-months stood at 1.23%.

The Bank’s operating metrics reflected steady growth, as the Net Interest Income (NII) witnessed 3.8% growth QoQ to Rs 1488.88 Cr, while the Other Income for the quarter surged 15.3% YoY to Rs 279.46 Cr from Rs 242.32 Cr recorded last financial year. The Bank’s Cost of Deposits also declined to 4.69% QoQ from 4.86%.

Commenting upon operating performance, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, “Despite rate cut, impairment provisioning for Grameen Bank and challenging conditions – particularly the events of April 22, their subsequent impact, and the floods that disrupted the local economy – the Bank remains firmly on track to deliver record profits for the fourth consecutive year.”

“Characterized by robust top-line growth and better asset quality, overall our Q3 performance underscores our strong fundamentals, disciplined execution, and sustained operational efficiency”, MD & CEO added.

Asset Quality

The Bank’s Gross NPA ratio declined YoY to 3.00%, down by 108 basis points (bps) from 4.08%, while as the Net NPA reduced by 26 bps YoY to 0.68% from 0.94% and 8 bps QoQ from 0.76%. The Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) for the quarter is above 90% at 90.46%.

In his comments on asset quality, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee remarked, “Even as our core geography has navigated significant challenges extending beyond the banking sector, the Bank’s asset quality has continued to improve steadily. Supported by robust risk management practices, Gross NPAs have declined from around 4 percent to 3.00% percent, which is almost in line with our stated annual guidance.”

“The sustained improvement in asset quality despite such disturbances speaks volumes about the resilience and commitment of borrowers and the underlying robustness of the local economy”, he added.

Business Growth

Maintaining strong business momentum during the third quarter of the current financial year, the Bank recorded a robust YoY growth of 17.3% in gross advances and a healthy YoY growth of 10.6% in deposits. As on December 31, 2025, the Bank’s gross Advances surged to Rs 116248 Cr while total deposits reached Rs 155861 Cr.

Commenting on the business growth, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, “Delivering over 17% year-on-year growth in advances – well ahead of the guidance we had shared with the market – reflects the strength of our franchise, the effectiveness of our credit strategy and the meticulous execution by our teams on the ground. Double-digit growth of deposits in a competitive environment also highlights the trust reposed in the Bank by our customers.”

“The accelerated advances growth was driven by focused expansion in retail, MSME, agriculture and select corporate portfolios, supported by improved credit appetite and strengthened customer engagement across both core and emerging geographies. Our consistent focus on deepening relationships within JKL and beyond, improving product penetration and enhancing service delivery continues to support stable balance-sheet expansion”, he added.

Capital Adequacy

The Bank’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) under Basel III stood at 15%.

Regarding capital position, MD & CEO remarked, “With our CAR at 15% – which will be further augmented by internal accruals on account of net profit for current fiscal – we are well capitalized to expand our lending operations as per our business plan. Moreover, the board approved capital raise of Rs 1250 Cr will boost our capital adequacy and cushion us comfortably to support calibrated business expansion across key sectors.”

“It will enhance our ability to absorb risk, while reinforcing our long-term focus on sustaining asset quality, improving profitability and creating enduring value for our shareholders”, he added.

Key Initiatives

Highlighting the Bank’s key initiatives during the CFY so far, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee remarked, “During these quarters, we remained steadfast in supporting our customers, particularly through initiatives such as the 2025 Rehabilitation Package for disturbance-affected borrowers, which provided extended repayment timelines and additional credit support. This underscores our role as a responsible institution committed to sustaining livelihoods and economic activity in our core operational geographies.”

Terming digital transformation as central to the Bank’s strategy, he further added, “Simultaneously, we accelerated our digital transformation with the launch of several customer-focused innovations to strengthen customer experience, improve security and efficiency, and position the Bank for sustained, technology-led growth.”

On the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee extended heartfelt gratitude to the customers and stakeholders – especially the promoters – for their unwavering trust and continued support besides entire Bank staff for their steadfast dedication.

Categories
CITY

Lieutenant Governor inaugurates redeveloped Amira Kadal bridge in Srinagar

The historically significant project to preserve legacy while improving urban mobility and quality of life

Our prime objective is to lift the quality of life to a new level with modern technology and inclusive design: LG Sinha

We have made it a mission to protect the soul of every city while upgrading or renovating the infrastructure. By preserving historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, lively squares and peaceful green spaces, we have made efforts to weave amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city: LG

Renovation and upgradation of a city’s infrastructure should become a bridge, beautifully linking heritage with the needs of today: LG Sinha

A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It’s about sparking an entirely new way of quality living, which is vibrant, efficient and inclusive: LG Sinha

By breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honoring the roots. It’s not about upgradation of infrastructure but it’s about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for young generation: LG

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 20: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the redeveloped Amira Kadal bridge in Srinagar.
The project, costing Rs 7.70 crore under Srinagar Smart City limited was launched in December 2023, ensuring due diligence in heritage conservation, structural safety and quality control.
Dedicating the pedestrian wooden bridge to the people of Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor said the historically significant project will preserve legacy while improving urban mobility and quality of life.
“Our prime objective is to lift the quality of life to a new level with modern technology and inclusive design.
We have made it a mission to protect the soul of every city while upgrading or renovating the infrastructure. By preserving historic lanes, bridges, traditional markets, lively squares and peaceful green spaces, we have made efforts to weave amenities into the cultural heartbeat of each city,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the renovation and upgradation of a city’s infrastructure should become a bridge, beautifully linking heritage with the needs of today.
This approach is already visible in the several cities of J&K. Jhelum Riverfront, Lal Chowk, MA road redevelopment, Redevelopment of Polo view High Street, Traditional Souq Market and craft centre Batmaloo, Development of lake front including walkways on Northern Foreshore road from Nishat to Naseem Bagh Habak, Improvement of Ghats along Jhelum, Improvement of Facade of Heritage Markets of Shehr-e-Khaas, Srinagar, Improvement of road from Dogra Chowk to KC chowk, Apsara road High Street, Street development Canal road Talab Tillo, Street development of heritage site Mubarak Mandi to Raghunath Bazaar, approach to Bahu Fort Temple, Ranbir canal Blue-Green Walkway projects, Tawi River front now pulse with fresh appeal, drawing not just tourists enchanted by their timeless charm, but also giving boost to businesses and the local economy is gaining real strength and momentum.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that by breathing new life into our cities through preservation of cultural heritage, we are honoring the roots. He said that this commitment is about more than upgradation of infrastructure; it is about building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for young generation.
“A true smart city is never just about new infrastructure. It is about sparking an entirely new way of quality living, which is vibrant, efficient and inclusive,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Interacting with local shopkeepers and traders, the Lieutenant Governor said that the opening of the pedestrian bridge will improve accessibility, boost commercial activity, and provide a pleasant experience for tourists.
Shri Ahsan Pardesi, Member of Legislative Assembly from Lal Chowk; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Shri VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Shri Faz Lul Haseeb, CEO, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), senior officials, members of trade associations and prominent citizens attended the inaugural ceremony.

Categories
CRIME

J&K Police arrests notorious drug peddler in Srinagar; 1.6 Kg Heroin recovered

Srinagar, January 18: In its sustained drive against drug trafficking and in furtherance of its commitment to eradicate the menace of narcotics from society, J&K Police achieved a major breakthrough by arresting a notorious drug peddler in Srinagar and recovered a huge quantity of heroin from his possession.

Police team from Police Station Khanyar, during routine checking at Munwarabad near the Sewage Treatment Plant, apprehended a suspicious individual. Upon conducting a search, two packets of heroin weighing approximately 1.6 kilograms were recovered from his bag. He has been identified as Fayaz Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Hussain Dar, resident of Ichgam, Budgam.

Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 04/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Khanyar. The accused has been arrested and further investigation is in progress to ascertain the source and network involved in the trafficking of narcotics.

J&K Police reiterates its firm resolve to take stringent action against drug traffickers and appeals to the general public to cooperate by sharing any information related to drug abuse or illegal narcotics trade, so that this social menace can be effectively curbed.

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JAMMU

Ravinder Raina, senior BJP Leader and former MLA calls on LG Shri Manoj Sinha

JAMMU, JANUARY 17: Shri Ravinder Raina, senior BJP Leader and former MLA called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, today.

He discussed various public important issues and development of several religious sites including Baba Naar Singh Ji Dev Sthan (Lamberi) Nowshera, Mangla Mata Shrine & Mangla Devi (Fort & Temple) under religious and border tourism and Peer Badesar near LoC in Rajouri.

Categories
CRIME

Police solves theft case in Awantipora, Stolen property recovered

Awantipora, January 16: Police in Awantipora received a written complaint from one person namely Umar Gani Wani son of Ab Gani Wani, resident of Beighpora, stating that on 12-01-2025, unknown thieves barged into his Rice Mill and stole copper wire from the transformer.
Accordingly, a case FIR No. 18/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Awantipora, and investigation was taken up.
During the course of investigation, a police team headed by IC Police Post Reshipora, SI Muneer Ahmad, under the supervision of SHO Police Station Awantipora, Inspector Ajaz Hmad, used modern investigative techniques, including analysis of CCTV footage from multiple locations, which led to the identification of the accused. Identified as Showkat Ahmad Dar son of Mohd Ayoub Dar resident of Bonpora, Panzgam involved in the commission of the crime was accordingly arrested. Further investigation is going on and to ascertain the involvement of the accused in other similar cases.

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BUSINESS

CM Omar Abdullah explores collaboration opportunities during visit to IICT-NFDC campus in Mumbai

MUMBAI, JANUARY 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has visited the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) campus at the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Mumbai, on January 15, to explore avenues for institutional collaboration and student exchange between IICT and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.

The visit, held at the IICT–NFDC Campus, was hosted by Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, Chief Executive Officer, IICT, along with Munjal Shroff, Governing Council Member, IICT.

During the visit, the Chief Minister was taken on a structured walkthrough of the IICT main campus, providing an overview of the institute’s academic ecosystem and advanced technology infrastructure. As part of the programme, he attended a curated audiovisual presentation at the Rangayan Preview Theatre, which showcased IICT’s vision, academic framework, and capabilities in creative and immersive technologies.

This was followed by a live demonstration at the Anubhuti Drishya Immersive Studio Lab, where applications of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) were showcased through hands-on experiential interactions.

The visit also featured a Digital Twin demonstration at the Photogrammetry Studio, where a live 3D photogrammetry scan was conducted to create a digital avatar, highlighting the practical applications of emerging immersive technologies.

A strategic discussion session was held to deliberate potential areas of collaboration between IICT and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. The discussions focused on student exchange and institutional cooperation, particularly in skill development and capacity building in AVGC and emerging creative technologies; digital heritage and cultural preservation through immersive tools; and the development of a collaborative startup incubation and innovation ecosystem aimed at empowering youth from Jammu & Kashmir.

Speaking during the interaction, the Chief Minister said, “If we want Jammu and Kashmir to become an attractive destination for filmmaking, then human talent and post-production capability must be created locally. That is where a relationship with an institution like IICT becomes important for us.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO, IICT said that they look forward to exploring meaningful collaborations that can benefit students and young talent from Jammu & Kashmir by enabling skill development, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.”

Following the discussions, the Chief Minister was escorted to the NFDC Bharat Pavilion and Museum, which chronicles India’s cinematic and creative heritage. The visit highlighted the role of the NFDC Museum as a national cultural repository dedicated to preserving, presenting, and celebrating India’s film and creative legacy, before the Chief Minister proceeded to his onward engagements at the NFDC campus.

Categories
CRIME

Police Recover Over 8 Kg Contraband Substance In Pulwama; Accused Arrested

Pulwama, January 14: In a major blow to drug trafficking networks, police in Pulwama have achieved a significant success by recovering a huge quantity of contraband substance during a well-coordinated operation at village Lelhar.

Acting on specific and reliable information, Police learned that one individual, namely Irshad Ahmad Dar son of Shaban Dar resident of Lelhar, had concealed a huge quantity of contraband substance (Charas) inside his residential house. Accordingly, a case FIR No. 04/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Kakapora and investigation was immediately set into motion.

During the course of investigation, a search warrant was obtained from the Hon’ble Court of JMIC Pulwama, following which a thorough search of the residential premises of the accused was conducted in the presence of the Executive Magistrate 1st Class, Kakpora, ensuring complete adherence to legal procedures. During the search operation, 8.795 kilograms of semi-grinded charas-like substance was recovered from the residential house of the accused. The recovered contraband was seized as per due legal formalities, and the accused has been arrested in the case. Further investigation is underway to trace the source of the contraband and identify backward and forward linkages involved in the drug supply chain.

Police remains steadfast in its resolve to eradicate the drug menace from society and appeals to the general public to extend cooperation by sharing any information related to drug trafficking, assuring strict confidentiality.

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