JAMMU, APRIL 21: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha has greeted the people on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr.
In his message, the Lt Governor said: “Heartiest greetings and good wishes to the people on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. The festival marks the culmination of the holy month of Ramzan and symbolizes the spirit of austerity, brotherhood, compassion and joy of sharing”.
May Eid-ul-Fitr usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all, he said.
Jammu, April 21: A delegation of National Awardee Teachers from J&K UT called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan, today.
The delegation led by Sh Sunil Kumar apprised the Lt Governor on various welfare issues of National Awardee Teachers of Jammu Kashmir.
The members of J&K Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers Association headed by its Chairman and International Gold medallist Sh Narinder Chib apprised the Lt Governor on the concerning issues of Rehbar-e-Khel Physical Education teachers.Later, a delegation of Kathua Vikas Manch led by its Patron Prof. Ram Murti Sharma, and Sh Sahil Bhagat, Sarpanch Kashirah, Udhampur projected various developmental issues of their respective areas.
The representatives of Bhartiya Yog Sansthan also called on the Lt Governor and apprised him on the promotion of Yoga in government schools of Jammu Kashmir.
The Lt Governor assured the members of the delegations of appropriate redressal of their issues and demands based on merit.
Also takes stock of arrangements for Eid-ul-Fitr
SRINAGAR, APRIL 20: In order to take stock of developmental works being carried out in view of hosting G-20 at Srinagar and preparations for Eid-ul-Fitr, the Chief Secretary, DrArun Kumar Mehta today conducted an extensive tour of the Srinagar city to make on spot appraisal of ongoing developmental works.
The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Commissioner SMC & CEO Srinagar Smart City; VC Lakes Conservation and Management Authority; Chief Engineer Srinagar Smart City Ltd and other officers from line departments besides from Police and Traffic departments.
During the tour, the Chief Secretary visited IG Road, Jhelum Riverfront Development Project, Residency Road, Maulana Azad Road, Gupkar Junction, Boulevard Footpath, Nishat Garden precinct, Northern Foreshore Road including cycle track, Shalimar Canal and DargahHazratbal Shrine.
Dr. Mehta while taking stock of the works carried out at all these locations directed the concerned officers to further accelerate the pace of work and ensure completion of all these projects within fixed deadlines.
He also directed to make all necessary arrangements for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr festival including sanitation, cleaning, traffic management etc.
Reviewing the progress of Dal Lake cleansing at Nishat precinct, the Chief Secretary directed the VC, LC&MA to expedite the Houseboat sewerage connections and cleanliness of remaining patches of Dal with special focus on shoreline. He also directed him to start water sports activities in Hazratbal basin by 15th of May.
The VC, LC&MA apprised the Chief Secretary that the EOI is being floated by I&FC and Tourism Departments shortly. He further revealed that the activities identified for water sports include Waterpark, Jet skies, Zorbing balls, Parasailing etc.
Later, Dr Mehta visited Hazratbal Shrine where he gave necessary directions to the concerned officers for face-lifting of compound wall and other make-over works for the comfort of the devotees.
Also visits Jambu Zoo to assess facilities there
Calls for expediting completion of all the works for their early dedication to public
JAMMU, APRIL 18: Chief Secretary, Dr Arun Kumar Mehta today conducted an extensive tour of Jammu City and inspected ongoing works at Jambu Zoo and other developmental works being executed here under Smart City Mission.
He was accompanied by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar; Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Avny Lavasa; Chief Wildlife Warden, Suresh Kumar Gupta; Regional Wildlife Warden; Wildlife Warden Jambu Zoo besides Engineers of JPDCL, Jal Shakti, PWD, and other concerned officers.
Dr Mehta visited Jambu Zoo at Nagrota which is nearing completion and took stock of ongoing works there.
The Chief Wildlife Warden gave a detailed presentation on the works carried out so far. It was informed that the work on cafeteria and parks had been completed while the work on parking, animal enclosures are in the final stages of completion.
The Chief Secretary also sought other important details regarding the prestigious project including details of animals and birds to become part of the Zoo after its completion.
Dr Mehta directed the concerned officers to closely supervise the works and expedite the ongoing works for opening of the Zoo to public.
Responding to the issue of water supply to the Zoo, the Chief Secretary asked the Engineers of Jal Shakti Department to follow up on the NOCs from the Ministry of Defence and ensure water supply at the earliest.
He also issued directions for expediting facilities like ticketing system, security, services like cafeteria so that the completed part of the zoo could be thrown open for public as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary also conducted Jammu city tour and inspected the ongoing pathways/footpath and Junction improvement projects being executed under Jammu Smart City Mission. He inspected the progress of work at various locations, including Gandhi Nagar, Panama Chowk, University Road and Bahu Fort area.
The concerned officers apprised him of the present status of work and future work plan. Dr Mehta directed the executing agencies to further increase the pace of work on all the works and complete them at the earliest.
Later, Chief Secretary inspected Development of Tawi River Front. Regarding the project the Chief Executive Officer, Jammu Smart City Limited, Rahul Yadav apprised him of works completed so far besides present status of work and future plans.
It was informed that work on machinery mobilization, grating, centre making, topographic survey etc have been completed while work on construction of diaphragms is in full swing.
While taking a round of various spots of ongoing works Dr Mehta directed concerned officials to clear bottlenecks, if any, and expedite the pace of work for timely completion of this significant project. He also instructed them to ensure that quality parameters of each work are strictly adhered to.
While inspecting work on Tawi barrage the CS issued strict directions to the executing agencies to set weekly targets and ensure completion of the project in a time bound manner. He even directed them to consider issuing notices to contractors whose performance is not found satisfactory.
Chief Secretary also inspected the progress on Package 1 of Jammu Akhnoor Road Project nearing Bhagwati Nagar rotary to Canal Head. The Engineers of NHIDCL informed that the land acquisition process has been completed and the work on construction and raising the pillars for flyover is in progress to complete the work within the fixed deadline.
Dr Mehta also directed Divisional Commissioner Jammu to develop surface parking on available vacant land near 4th Tawi bridge (Bhagwati Nagar) within two months so that the same is ready for use during the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and also caters to the visitors coming to watch the Tawi River Front after its beautification and development.
Award has been Conferred in Category of Aspirational Districts Prog; Becomes 1st DC of B’la to Win the Prestigious Title
BARAMULLA, APRIL 18: Bringing laurels for the UT of Jammu and Kashmir in general and for district Baramulla in particular, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar has achieved the coveted Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration-2022, India’s highest award in civil services.
Dr Sehrish has been selected for this prestigious achievement in the category of Aspirational Districts programme as she has brought transformative changes in the identified parameters envisaged in the said programme.
As per reports, key aspects for Aspirational District Programme in Baramulla for which the Deputy Commissioner was awarded by the Prime Minister include establishment of Birth Waiting Wards in Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, Upgradation of diagnostic services at all delivery points and Poshan Tracker Tabs for all Anganwadi workers.
The Deputy Commissioner supported farmers through mechanism, plant protection, nursery strengthening, robust root stocks, quality planning material etc and organized marketing facility established at Sopore which is the second largest Fruit Mandi in Asia.
Severe Acute Malnutrition has been reduced in the district to 0.01 percent from 3 percent and Moderate Acute Malnutrition to 0.039 percent from 11.93 percent. A two-year paramedical diploma course has been introduced for 300 border area students to fill up the critical gap in the health sector.
Under financial inclusion, 56,215 PM Jan Dhan Yojana accounts have been opened in Baramulla district.
Meanwhile, various stakeholders including Lieutenant Governor have extended their warm appreciations and felicitations to Dr. Syed Sehrish for this achievement besides earning accolades from several other quarters.
RINAGAR APRIL 18:- Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad today visited ShankarAcharya Temple to review the arrangements being made for forthcoming ShankarAcharya Jayanti scheduled to be celebrated on April 25, 2023.
The Shankaracharya Jayanti is considered one of the significant celebrations in Sanatan Dharma which marks the day of birth of Adi Shankara ji, an 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian.
While taking review on the spot, Deputy Commissioner directed concerned departments to ensure all basic arrangements are put in place for the devotees expected to perform Darshan in the Shankaracharya Temple on the top of Zabarwan hills during ShankarAcharya Jayanti.
The DC instructed for ensuring hassle-free traffic movement for the devotees and making adequate facilities at the designated place for parking of the vehicles.
He also instructed for ensuring uninterrupted supply of electricity and drinking water at the venue so that devotees do not face any problem during their visit to pay obeisance at the Temple.
The DC also asked the Health Department to deploy a Medical team at the venue with the availability of all emergency medicines and first aid facilities to handle any medical emergency.
The DC directed the officers of all line departments to ensure all necessary arrangements required for smooth stay and enriching pilgrimage for all visitors on this occasion. He also stressed on maintaining proper sanitation at the Temple premises and at the entire pilgrimage route.
The concerned police authorities were asked to take all measures to ensure adequate security arrangements around the Temple.
Earlier, the DC interacted with the members of the Dharmarth Trust and security incharge. The DC assured them of all possible support from the District Administration for smooth celebration of Shankaracharya Jayanti.
Superintendent of Police, South, SP Traffic, SDM East, Chief Planning Officer, Executive Engineers of PHE R&B & SMC, Deputy Director Culture Department, Deputy General Manager SRTC, Tehsildar South and senior Officers.
District Administration to launch championships for 60+ citizens under Khelo India program: DC Budgam
BUDGAM, APRIL 17: The District Administration Budgam, in collaboration with Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Budgam today organised a first of its kind Senior Citizens Sports Competition at DIET Beerwah in Budgam.
Living truly to this adage “Age is just a Number”, hundreds of Senior citizens both men and women participated in events including Kabaddi, Tug of War, Chess, Carrom, Skipping Rope, Hopscotch with full enthusiasm and energy.
Various cultural programs inclduing skits were presented by the local, renowned artists to raise awareness against drugs and other social evils and highlighted the importance of sports for a happy and healthy life.
The performances also focused on the role of elders and parents towards society and curbing the drug menace with proper guidance and vigil on their wards.
Speaking as a chief guest, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Budgam, S F Hamid highlighted the importance of sports in all age groups to remain both mentally as well as physically fit.
He said that the District Administration Budgam is committed to take these events at village level also under the ongoing ambitious Khelo- India programme to ensure maximum participation of people in sports activities no matter what their age is.
DC said that overwhelming participation of senior citizens in today’s competition is a testimony to the fact that the people of Budgam are committed to the development and path of prosperity.
He said that sports not only helps to keep us hale and healthy but also keep our youth away from drugs and other social evils.
DC said that senior citizens are important part of society, having say to council and motivate youth to participate in sports, cultural or any adventurous activities, and save them falling prey to drug abuse. He also urged parents to keep tight vigil on their wards to ensure they remain away from drugs.
On the occasion, the DC also distributed trophies among the participating senior citizens for their exemplary performances in a series of sports disciplines.
DYSSO, Budgam, Gurmukh Singh Dutta, while presenting welcome address on the occasion, appreciated senior citizens who thronged the venue in good numbers to mark their participation in the competition.
Among others, SDM Beerwah, Taufeeq Gazi, Principal DIET, Tehsildar, BDO, AD Planning, Mirwaiz Central Kashmir Moulvi Abdul Latief and other officers and PRIs were also present on the occasion.
Finalises arrangements for auspicious occasions of Shab-e-Qadr and Eid-ul-Fitr
SRINAGAR APRIL 17:- In order to review the arrangements for observance of auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Qadr and upcoming celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr, the Deputy Commissioner(DC) Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad Monday morning undertook a visit to Hazratbal Dargah in order to take onsite review of the arrangements being made by all line Departments for smooth conduct of the auspicious religious occasions.
The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Additional Deputy Commissioner Syed Shabir Ahmad, SP Traffic, Muzafar Ahmad Shah, Superintending Engineer R&B, SP Hazratbal, SDM East, Chief Planning Officer, Joint Commissioner SMC, Deputy Director Information, BMO Hazratbal, Tehsildar Eidgah/North, Executive Engineer PHE, ARTO, and senior Officers of SRTC, PDD and other line Departments, besides Administrator of J&K Wakf Board and senior members of Hazratbal Shrine Management.
While chairing a meeting in the premises of the Hazratbal Shrine, the DC on the occasion sought a detailed action plan from concerned Departments regarding the arrangements put in place for observance of auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Qadr and upcoming celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr related to supply of water and electricity, cleanliness measures, dog menace, fire service, transport, parking and medical facilities etc.
The measures to tackle any kind of inconvenience caused inclement weather conditions were also discussed.
The DC directed the Officers of all line Departments to ensure special arrangements for smooth observance of the pious religious occasions at the Shrine for the Devotees particularly during the intervening night(Shab-e-Qadr) 26-27th Ramzan-ul Mubarak 1444 Hijri, which falls on intervening night of 17-18 April, 2023 and on upcoming celebrations of auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
With regard to ensuring adequate supply of water, the DC asked the PHE authorities to ensure uninterrupted water supply at the Shrine so that devotees do not face any inconvenience. He instructed them to keep a sufficient number of water tankers at the premises to cater to the demand.
The DC was apprised that 50000 Gallon OH water Tank is already in place at the Shrine, besides 220 water posts are installed to suffice the requirements of the devotees while additional 20 temporary water posts are being installed at the shrine.
Similarly, the PDD Engineers were asked to ensure uninterrupted power supply at the Shrine during the auspicious days of night prayers as well as on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr congregation Nimaz and keep proper power backup to tackle any power breakdown.
In this regard the DC was informed that in addition 400 KVA Genset and 20 KVA UPS has been kept as backup to provide power supply during any failure so that devotees do not face any difficulty.
The DC also directed the SMC officials to deploy sufficient men and machinery at the venue to ensure proper cleanliness in and around the Shrine. They were also asked to take measures for establishment of mobile toilets besides a concrete mechanism to contain stray dog menace in and around the Shrine.
The DC also laid stress on making all dysfunctional Street/Mass lights functional well before the commencement of the Holy religious occasion.
The Health authorities were asked to set up a Medical camp with adequate number of Doctors and Paramedics, besides critical care ambulance service and other first aid facilities in the premises of Hazratbal Shrine as per past practice to provide medical facilities at the Shrine.
With regard to Traffic and Parking facilities, the DC asked the Traffic Police authorities for ensuring hassle-free traffic movement of the devotees from different parts of Srinagar and other Districts of Kashmir, besides making adequate facilities at the designated place for parking of the vehicles.
The officers of SRTC and RTO were asked to make sufficient transport arrangements for the devotees during the auspicious occasions.
Earlier, the DC was apprised by the Administrator, J&K Wakf Board about the arrangements being made by the Wakf for smooth observance of the Holy religious occasions of Shab-e-Qadr and upcoming celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr during which about one lakh people are expected to visit the Dargah to offer special prayers during intervening night(Shab-e-Qadr) and congregational prayer of Eid-ul-fitr.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar has extended greetings to the People on the auspicious occasion of the Holy religious occasions of Shab-e-Qadr and upcoming of Eid-ul-Fitr. The DC also prayed for prosperity and holistic wellbeing of the people.
Hope is a fundamental human emotion that plays a significant role in shaping our lives. It is a positive attitude that enables us to look beyond our present circumstances and see a brighter future. Hope is the belief that things will get better, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It is the feeling that empowers us to keep going when times are tough, to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Hope is everything in life, and its significance and importance in day-to-day life cannot be overstated.
Hope gives us a reason to live. It is the force that drives us forward and helps us to overcome our darkest moments. When we are faced with challenges, hope gives us the strength to carry on. Without hope, we would be lost in despair, unable to see a way out of our problems. Hope keeps us focused on our goals and motivates us to take action to achieve them.
Hope also helps us to cope with loss and grief. When we lose someone we love or experience a significant setback, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by sadness and despair.
However, hope helps us to see that even in the darkest moments, there is still a reason to keep going. It reminds us that life is a journey with ups and downs, and that we can find happiness and joy again.
Furthermore, hope plays a crucial role in our mental health. When we are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, hope can be the catalyst for our recovery. It gives us the strength to seek help, to take steps towards healing, and to believe that we can overcome our challenges. Hope is the foundation for optimism and positivity, which are essential for good mental health.
In addition to our personal lives, hope also has a significant impact on our communities and society as a whole. Hope can inspire social change and encourage people to work towards a better future. When we have hope, we are more likely to take action towards positive change, whether it is in our personal lives or in our communities. Hope can be the driving force behind social movements that aim to create a more just and equitable world.
Moreover, hope is essential for our relationships. When we have hope in our relationships, we are more willing to forgive and work towards resolution when conflicts arise. It enables us to see the best in others and to believe that people can change and grow. Hope also gives us the strength to keep our commitments and promises, which is crucial for building trust in our relationships.
Hope is also important in our professional lives. When we have hope in our careers, we are more motivated to work hard and achieve our goals. It helps us to stay focused on our long-term objectives and to persist in the face of challenges. Furthermore, hope can be the catalyst for innovation and creativity, as it encourages us to think outside the box and come up with new solutions to problems.
In conclusion, hope is everything in life. It is the foundation of our emotional well-being, the catalyst for social change, and the driving force behind our personal and professional growth. Hope is the light that guides us through the darkest moments and gives us the strength to overcome our challenges. It is the fuel that drives us towards our dreams and aspirations. Without hope, life would be a bleak and hopeless existence. Therefore, we must cultivate hope in our lives and in the lives of those around us. We must strive to see the best in ourselves and others and to believe that a better future is possible. Hope is the essence of life, and we must embrace it with open arms.
(The author is student of M.A Political Science, Central University of Kashmir. She can be mailed at fatimabhat067@gmail.com)
The views expressed in the article are of the author and do not, in anyway, reflect the opinion of the Valley Observer
In this holy month of Ramazan, Zikr-o-Azkar and Quran Khawani picks up for a soulful delight
Nasir Yousufi
SRINAGAR: While the holy month of Ramazan is being observed with utmost fervor throughout the globe, the faithful in the valley can be seen engaged in a variety of acts aimed at attaining spiritual merriment. In addition to rituals like Sehri and Iftaar, the believers participate in soulful functions of Quranic recitations.
In this holy month of Ramazan, Zikr-o-Azkar and Quran Khawani picks up for a soulful delight.
On an overcast afternoon, 9-year-old Zainab from central Kashmir’s Akhoon Mohlla in Dal Lake leaves the house in a jiffy. Holding a large sized Quran wrapped in a piece of cloth or Ghliaf close to her chest, the girl straightaway walks into Darsgah to join the scores of people engaged in a community recitation of the Holy book.
Every afternoon in Akhoon Mohalla locality in Dal, the atmosphere reverberates with the soul soothing recitations from the historic Imambara. Held under the banner of local Makhtab, the community recitation of the holy book is headed by local Qari.
The program is attended by hundreds of believers throughout the month.
Scenes portraying children and young seated in rows reciting Quran amidst Islamic banners and hoardings are a treat for souls.
At Zadibal Imambara, the month long community recitation of holy book held under the banner of Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association witnesses the participation of hundreds of people both men and women from all walks of life. In evening, the central Imambara wears a festive look with devotees thronging the religious space in droves.
Similar programme is held regularly at Nabdipora area where eminent Qari’s of the valley recite the holy book. The afternoon gathering of reciters is headed by eminent religious scholar of the valley, Moulana Ghulam Rasool Noori.
The Quran says that it was during Ramazan that its revelation took place: “The month of Ramazan is that in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” 2:185. Quoting the verse, Moulana says being the month of the holy book, Ramazan comes with a package of the creators benevolence.
“Every good deed multiplies seventy two times during these sacred days, has been said in multiple Hadiths. As such, recitation of the holy Book and other Darood-o-Azkaar gains significance,” says Moulana Noori, while laying stress on the importance of the recitation, comprehension and teachings of Quran.
Another importance of the event is that it imparts an essential elementary level acquaintance with the Arabic grammar, phonetics and the tarteel of the holy Quran among the audience and students in particular, Moulana adds while deliberating upon the objectives of Bahaar-e-Quran.
Teaching someone is considered as an “ongoing charity” — such a person gets rewarded continuously even after his death. Teachers and learned scholars are held in high regard in Islamic societies, adds Moulana.
In a similar programme held at central Imambara Budgam, Qari Mohammad Hussain along with Qari Muzamil mesmerise the listeners and participants with soulful voice while leading the recitation of holy verses. Organized by Anjuman-e-Sharie Shiyan, hundreds of people participate in the month long programme.
“I love to participate in the programme, as I learn both art of recitation ’Qirat’ and Arabic here,” says Hashim Abbas, a standard 7th student from the vicinity.
Only at a distance of few kilometers from the main town Budgam, another large Quran recitation congregation takes place at Shahrul Fazalullah , Imambara Yousufabad, Bemina. Considered as the most spacious Imambara in the valley, the religious space wears a festive look right after the mid day prayers. Young, adults and children, all gather to witness the soul enthralling Quranic Mehfil headed by Aga Syed Muhammad Hadi Al-Musavi Al-Safvi, President Anjuman-e-Sharie.
“I am a regular participant in the programme for last 14 days, since the onset of the holy month,” says Haji Ali Mohammad Wani, a sexagenarian resident from the vicinity. “Though unfortunately I am not able to read the holy book myself, listening to the soul soothing voices of these Qari’s are a means of greater solace,” adds Wani.
For a young college going Qurat from the Bemina vicinity, these programmes are very useful to all, and in particular to student community. “I spare my two hours regularly for the purpose all these days, as it is very helpful to learn the Tajweed, Grammar of Quran,” Zehra opines.
Similar spiritual and soul soothing programmes are also being held at Jamia Masjid Chattergam, Masjid Syed Muhammad Mosvi (RA) Khanqah-e-Sokhta Nawa Kadal, Imambara Hassanabad, Jamia Masjid Shalimar, Markaz-e-Jamia Pattan , Jamia Masjid Magam and other mosques and community centres throughout the length and breadth of the valley.
According to Mohammad Hussain, a post graduate teacher in Urdu literature from Zoorigund village in Central Kashmir’s Budgam, Quran is a book that encompasses the complete system of life.
Observers say there are many verses in the Quran that can be used as foundations for different branches of knowledge such as astronomy, economics, politics, law, ethics, philosophy, biology, environmental science, geography, zoology, sociology, history and medicine. This is in addition to the guidelines and commands on spirituality and worship. Any branch of knowledge, as long as it benefits mankind, is considered holy.
The Quran asks man to ponder and research the wonders of nature.
“Do they not observe the camels: How they were created? And the sky: How it was raised high? And the mountains: How they were fixed? And the earth: How it spread out?” 88: 17 to 20.
Mohammad Hussain says that the holy book is a complete guide for successful life of a man here and in the hereafter. “Programmes like Mehfil-e-Quran during Ramazan are heartening step to revisit the Islamic Philosophy and moral education. Such programmes should be promoted and encouraged for the larger benefit of the mankind.”
