Emphasises focus on outcome-based implementation of programs
JAMMU: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today visited the Jammu & Kashmir Regional Office of NABARD.
Chief General Manager (CGM), NABARD, Bhallamudi Sridhar; Deputy General Manager Urmil Lata; General Manager, Vikas Mittal and other officers were present on the occasion. During the visit, the Minister was apprised of the diverse initiatives being undertaken by NABARD to foster development of Jammu & Kashmir and uplift the lives of rural communities. The Minister also took detailed review of interventions of NABARD in terms of their sustainability and meeting the end objectives.
The Minister expressed keen interest in NABARD’s initiatives and lauded its efforts in transforming the socio-economic fabric of rural J&K. He emphasized the need for scaling up interventions to ensure last-mile connectivity and advised NABARD to focus on outcome-based implementation of programs.
Satish Sharma also assured full support from the Government in NABARD’s endeavours to contribute to the holistic development of Jammu & Kashmir.
Earlier, a comprehensive Power Point Presentation detailing NABARD’s various developmental activities and prospects for J&K was made by Assistant General Manager, Sonika Rana.
JAMMU: GOC White Knight Corps accompanied by GOC CIFDelta visited Kijai Kishtwar sector to review the prevalent security situation and operational preparedness.
GOC commended the troops for their steadfast commitment and emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest
Says ‘HADP proves boon for farmers, revolutionises agriculture sector in J&K’ SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar today said that the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) is incredibly revolutionising Agriculture sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister stated this while addressing, as a chief guest, at an Agriculture Innovation Summit held at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K). He described the initiative as boon for the farmers fraternity of the UT. The event brought together leading minds from academia, industry and governance to explore innovative solutions for advancing agriculture startups and businesses in Jammu and Kashmir.
The summit, organised by SKUAST-K and Mission Directorate HADP under Project 20 ‘Innovative Extension Approaches for Promoting Agriculture in J&K’, featured a number of activities, including startup pitching events, panel discussions, flagging off of the Student Rural Internship-Mobile Agri-clinics by the Minister and visit of SKUAST-K and line department startup stalls.
The opening ceremony held at the Nund Rashi Hall was marked by the premiere of HADP Impact documentary.
Javid Ahmad Dar, in his keynote address, lauded SKUAST-K’s leadership in driving agricultural innovation and emphasised the government’s commitment towards supporting youth-led agripreneurship. He praised the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme formulators for conceptualising such a “wonderful program that will revolutionise agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir”.
While stressing the enhanced collaboration between SKUAST-K and the line departments, the Minister said there is a need for more grassroots connect, translating research into practice and scaling innovative solutions across the J&K. He said it is the responsibility of this university to give new ideas to the people, farming community and students so that agriculture becomes lucrative for all.
Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Gani, gave an overview of the university and apprised him of various programs being offered there.
Mission Director HADP, Rahul Yadav, briefed about the functioning of HADP and JKCIP. CGM NABARD, Partho Saha, stressed on making innovation relevant for the farming community.
Director Research SKUAST-K, Prof Haroon R Naik, presented vote of thanks. Directors from the line departments, SKUAST-K faculty members, students, innovators, startup founders and farmers were also present at the occasion. The Minister also felicitated the innovators who pitched their ideas at the occasion.
Inaugurates Dr. Masud A Chowdhary Memorial Boys’ Hostel JAMMU: Maintaining that education is top priority of Omar Abdullah led government, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today said that it is our prime concern and responsibility to ensure that every child has access to quality education with enhanced requisite facilities.
“We will move forward by taking along all sections of the society. The inclusiveness, at the heart of our efforts, is going to give a new dimension to the future governance of Jammu and Kashmir. We have to work together to build a strong and united nation,” said Javed Rana, who was speaking during the annual day celebration at Brigadier K B Public Higher Secondary School, Jammu.
Former Minister, Taj Mohiuddin was also present on the occasion.
Javed Rana, who was the chief guest on the occasion, congratulated the school management and students on the annual celebration of the school saying that quality education is key to development in any field.
The Minister said that an educated person builds a better society and a developed nation and our government is committed to provide an enabling environment for all students to attain quality education.
Commending the efforts of the school’s teachers, staff and management, the Minister expressed admiration for their dedication to creating and nurturing inclusive learning environment. He highlighted the significance of their work in supporting students, particularly those hailing from far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the institution is constantly moving forward in the field of quality education and is providing better education at par with other institutions of repute.
The students performed various cultural programmes and enthralled the audience. He also felicitated the sports achievers of the school in different categories of sports at local and national level.
Chairman GDCT, Arshid Ali Choudhary said that achievements of the students in different fields is a proud moment for the entire school and said that it is the work of the last 30 years that we have reached the heights of success.
Chairman JKBOSE, Parikshat Singh, while speaking on the occasion said that the school has been doing a commendable job from the last 30 years.
Addressing the students, he said that they need to be adaptable in today’s world to carve a niche for themselves.
Earlier, Javid Rana inaugurated Dr Masud A Choudhary Boys Hostel at Khuda Baksh Public Higher Secondary School Jammu. He also laid the foundation stone for upgradation of playground and Vocational Training Centre of KB Public Higher Secondary School.
Emphasising that initiatives like these are aimed at enhancing educational infrastructure and providing better opportunities for students, Javed Rana said that the event marked a significant step in promoting holistic education and infrastructure development in the region. Underscoring the government’s commitment towards fostering inclusive education, the Minister said that inclusion of new hostel is expected to significantly improve the residential and academic atmosphere on campus, thereby enhancing overall student satisfaction at K B Public School.
While laying the foundation stone for upgradation of Playground and Vocational Training Centre of K B Public School, Javed Rana said that playgrounds are the best places to develop creativity among the children and the upgradation of playground is a right step in that direction.
‘Assures public that their issues will not only be heard but acted upon’ SRINAGAR,: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today held the review meeting-cum-public grievance redressal camp for Zadibal Constituency at Nalbal, Nowshara here.
The review meeting-cum-public grievance redressal camp was held in the backdrop of Omar Abdullah led Government’s effort to engage directly with the public and address their concerns. The camp witnessed significant turnout from local residents of Zadibal Constituency who took this opportunity to voice their issues and concerns and seek prompt resolutions for same.
MLA, Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat; Director Health Services Kashmir, Director Social Welfare, Kashmir, Vice Chairman LCMA, Director Archives and Archaeology, Joint Director School Education Kashmir, Joint Commissioner SMC, Superintending Engineers of various wings, sectoral officers of different line departments and other concerned officers were also present during the review meeting-cum-public grievance redressal camp.
The camp saw a diverse group of individuals, from elderly citizens and youth to women and local businesses, each seeking redressal of their concerns and grievances. The issues mainly ranged from the need for improved health care facilities, issues of electricity and water supply, concerns regarding the timely implementation of government welfare schemes as well as other developmental issues.
During the camp, the Minister personally listened to each delegation and individual, assuring them that immediate action will be taken for prompt redressal of genuine grievances and issues. While interacting with these delegations and individuals, the Minister said, “Our Government is committed to ensure that the concerns and issues of the common masses are not only heard but acted upon”.
The Minister added that our government is people centric and we are determined to fulfill their aspirations. “Our Government remains accessible and responsive to the needs of people and our priority is to bring governance the doorsteps of common masses,” she remarked. The Minister further assured the locals that their issues and grievances will be redressed on priority.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo emphasized on the importance of maintaining a transparent and accountable system where citizens are heard and their grievances are addressed in timely manner. “Our Government is People’s government and we are firm to resolve every issue and grievance concerning the well being of our citizens”, Sakeena said.
The Minister on the occasion called upon the officers to deal with issues raised during the camp of their respective departments effectively and take due efforts for timely redressal of the same.
She also called upon the district administration to consult the local representatives beforehand for any developmental plan of the area as it is vital for effective execution as well as implementation of the plan.
She further delved upon the officers for deployment of adequate staff in the concerned PHC so that the people receive due medical treatment. She also asked the Director Health to look out the feasibility for Mobile medical facility in the areas as per the need.
The Minister, during the camp, also asked the officers to take valuable feedback from this camp as it will help to understand the problems faced by our community and make efforts to bring tangible improvements for the same.
On the occasion, MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq also addressed the gathering and brought several issues concerning the Zadibal Constituency before the notice of the Minister.
IT Department conducts surprise inspection of Common Service Centres JAMMU: Acting on the directions of Minister for Information Technology, Satish Sharma, the IT Department conducted surprise inspection of various Common Service Centres (CSCs) working in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister has issued strict directions to the concerned authorities to launch crackdown on all the CSCs indulging in overcharging facilitating the common masses.
Pertinently, the J&K administration is enforcing a strict monitoring and regulatory mechanism to ensure that CSCs adhere to notified rates. In this regard, regular audits and inspections are being carried out by dedicated Divisional Level Inspection teams of IT Department to identify and penalise those engaged in overcharging.
In this regard, Principal Secretary, Information Technology, Santosh Vaidya, has also issued directions to the Deputy Commissioners, who are Chairperson of District e Governance Societies (DeGs), to ensure strict enforcement of notified rates in their respective districts so that general public does not suffer on this account.
A series of surprise inspections of various Common Services Centres (CSCs) were conducted across Jammu and Kashmir to cross check and verify their adherence to government notified rates. The inspection teams, under the supervision of Aijaz Qaiser, Additional Secretary IT Department, were sent to twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu division and Baramulla and Kupwara in Kashmir division.
During the surprise checks, 15 CSCs of Rajouri and 16 CSCs of Poonch district were inspected in Jammu division while 55 CSCs of Baramulla and 50 CSCs of Kupwara district were inspected in Kashmir division.
In order to achieve the goal of Digital India by providing seamless online services to the general public, new touch points for CSCs are being set up in various Government offices like Deputy Commissioner offices, Block Development offices, Tehsil offices, Social Welfare offices, ARTO offices, Colleges and Universities. Directions have been issued to all Deputy Commissioners to allocate the spaces in all such offices for setting up of new touch points. Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) in districts have been nominated as nodal officers to facilitate and accelerate the opening of new touch points.
As on date, 664 new CSC touchpoints have been established, so far, and 17878 CSCs are active and providing services on Digi-Seva Portal in the J&K.
IT Department has notified rates to avail various online services which envisages Rs. 50 per service for government to citizen service and Rs. 75 for government to business services. Acting on complaints of overcharging, 661 CSC licenses have been cancelled in the past 1 year (627 in the financial year 2023-24 and 53 in this current financial year 2024-25). Meanwhile, Vice President CSC-SPV J&K has been directed to ensure that the notified rates are prominently displayed at a conspicuous place in each CSC sensitizing all village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) regarding notified rates. It has also been directed to ensure availability of VLEs by developing a proper certified mechanism so that general public can avail online services seamlessly.
JAMMU,: A two day Capacity Building Programme on Labour Laws commenced today at Convention Centre, Jammu, with its formal inauguration by Secretary Labour and Employment, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan.
The event, aimed to provide valuable insights into workers’ rights and legal framework governing the workforce, witnessed active participation of distinguished guests, expert speakers and stakeholders from the labour sector.
Labour Commissioner Charandeep Singh, senior officers and guest speakers, Dr. Onkar Sharma and others participated in the event.
The Secretary appreciated the Labour Department for this unique initiative aiming welfare of the labour fraternity. He encouraged the participants to actively engage in the sessions gaining thorough knowledge of the subject. He stressed upon the need of continuous efforts towards improving the conditions of labour class, ensuring efficient legal processes and comprehensive support for the workforce.
The Labour Commissioner, in his introductory remarks, emphasized the importance of ensuring fundamental rights and facilities for workers. He underscored the significance of fostering a harmonious relationship between the employers and employees for organizational growth and overall labour sector development. “A positive and cooperative relationship between the workforce and employers is crucial for progress,” he stated.
The programme featured two significant sessions on the first day.
The first session, led by Dr. Onkar Sharma, Former Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) and Advisor at V.V. Giri National Labour Institute, focused on laws related to wages, specifically the Code on Wages. He provided participants with a detailed understanding of key provisions, including minimum wages, payment timelines and compliance requirements, emphasizing how the Code aims to ensure fairness and transparency in wage-related matters. The second session was conducted by Dr. Sanjay Upadhyay, Senior Fellow at V.V. Giri National Labour Institute, who delved into laws related to occupational safety and health with an emphasis on the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code. His presentation covered workplace safety standards, employer responsibilities and mechanisms to ensure employee well-being, highlighting the importance of creating safe and secure working environments.
This capacity-building initiative reflects the Labour Commissioner office’s commitment towards empowering the workforce, promoting fair labour practices and fostering a balanced environment for the workers and employers.
The programme was attended by the senior officers including Deputy Labour Commissioner Jammu, AMO JKESIS, Chief Accounts Officer JKEPFO, Inspector of Factories Jammu, Insurance Medical Officers (IMOs), Assistant Labour Commissioners (ALCs) of Jammu Division, Labour Officers, Labour Inspectors and other ministerial staff of the Labour Department.
BARAMULLA, : An awareness camp cum interaction program aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and empowering unemployed youth and artisans was today organized by the Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) at Dakbanglow Sopore.
The camp was presided over by Chairperson of KVIB J&K, Dr. Hina Bhat. The event saw enthusiastic participation from aspiring entrepreneurs, artisans, and a significant number of women, who showcased their unique talents and crafts. The Chairperson KVIB was impressed by the exceptional craftsmanship displayed by the artisans. She praised their intricate handwork and acknowledged the vital role they play in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region.
Dr. Hina assured the artisans that KVIB would take active steps to address their concerns and provide platforms for showcasing their talent to a broader audience. She said, “Your talent is invaluable, and KVIB is here to ensure that your hard work receives the recognition and support it deserves.”
During the event, participants highlighted several challenges they face, particularly regarding market access and financial assistance. Artisans shared their difficulties in selling their products directly to consumers due to the involvement of intermediaries, which significantly reduces their earnings. Additionally, they raised concerns over delays in bank loan disbursements and the stringent requirements for guarantees, which often hinder their ability to access financial aid.
In response, Dr. Hina Bhat directed the Lead District Manager (LDM) to streamline the loan disbursement process and ensure it becomes more accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs. She emphasized that KVIB is dedicated to simplifying procedures and removing barriers that limit the growth of local talent.
She also encouraged artisans to leverage KVIB-supported platforms such as e-commerce channels and exhibitions to connect directly with consumers and maximize their profits. The Chairperson also emphasized the importance of empowering women and youth through skill development, financial assistance, and marketing support. She reassured participants that KVIB is committed to creating a supportive ecosystem that benefits artisans and contributes to the local economy.
Chairperson KVIB, in the presence of ADC Sopore, distributed certificates and registration cards to artisans and aspiring entrepreneurs during the camp.
Earlier, various speakers at the event detailed the government’s welfare schemes under KVIB. These initiatives, including financial aid, skill-building programs, and market linkage support, are designed to promote self-employment and empower artisans and entrepreneurs across the region.
Dr. Hina emphasized that plans were underway to establish clusters and individual units to empower women further. She also highlighted the success of the past three years, stating that 3500 units had been set up in Baramulla with an investment of Rs.104.85 crores as subsidy, benefiting around 28,000 people.
Among others, the camp was attended by Secretary KVIB, ADC Sopore, Lead District Manager, representatives of different banks besides Artisans, different NGOs and societies.
Overwhelming response for J&K Artisans and Entrepreneurs Sponsored by JKTPO AMRITSAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) set up and sponsored the Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at the 18th Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX), held in Amritsar from December 5-9, 2024. The pavilion, with its impressive showcase of traditional artistry, authentic products, and emerging entrepreneurial talent, became a focal point of the expo, garnering widespread appreciation from visitors, business delegations, and media alike.
With 30 dedicated stalls, including representation from 12 women entrepreneurs, JKTPO sponsored exhibitors from across Jammu and Kashmir who displayed their unique local artistry, making the pavilion a significant attraction for over four lakh visitors from India and abroad.
The Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion showcased a unique collection of products, such as Basohli Pashmina Shawls, Kani and Sozni embroidered clothes and stoles, the world-famous Kashmiri saffron, dry fruits and dried vegetables, hand-embroidered Phiran and Kashmiri garments, honey and Rajmash from the Jammu region.The pavilion turned into a vibrant hub where visitors not only purchased these exceptional products but also engaged directly with artisans, gaining insight into the stories and dedication behind each creation.
The event generated significant sales of over Rs 1 Cr and business leads with potential for future orders, promising substantial economic growth for artisans and entrepreneurs. PITEX 2024 hosted exhibitors from both within India and abroad, with participants from 15 Indian states and various international representatives showcasing their products. The success of Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at PITEX 2024 reflects the dedication of JKTPO to facilitating market access for local artisans and entrepreneurs. By fostering B2B and B2C engagements, the initiative continues to bridge cultures, support livelihoods, and drive economic growth in the Union Territory.
Building on successes of such activities, JKTPO has recently organized key events such as the JK Textile Sourcing Fair 2024 in Srinagar on 28-29 Nov,24, the Basmati Fair in Jammu, and participation in IITF 2024 in Delhi, showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s economic potential. Moving forward, JKTPO plans to participate in major events like the India International Mega Trade Fair in Kolkata, Indus Food, MITEX, Surajkund Mela, and Bharat Tex 2025, along with organizing the 2nd Agro & Food Fest on January 22, 2025, and the JK Trade Show 2025, Winter edition, January 31,2025.
Government’s handholding is our responsibility; Focus would be on Tourism, Local Industries, Cultural Heritage to drive economic growth, says CM at JCCI event
Pledges revival of Darbar Move
JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting local industries in overcoming the challenges they are currently facing.
Speaking at an event organized by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) at its office, the Chief Minister was felicitated for assuming office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister of Forest, Ecology and Environment Javed Ahmad Rana, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, JCCI President Arun Gupta, Vice President and General Secretary of JCCI, former presidents, and other members. Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Principal Secretary Finance, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce, and Director Industries & Commerce Jammu, were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is no shortage of issues. If I were to claim that these problems have only emerged in the past decade, it would be misleading. These challenges are not new, nor are they solely the result of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. However, the UT transition has undoubtedly compounded these issues,” he stated.
Highlighting the geographical constraints of the region, the Chief Minister said, “Several challenges stem from our location. Jammu and Kashmir is situated in a corner of the country. Our market is very small, and our raw material base is limited. An industry that relies on importing raw materials and exporting finished products cannot sustain itself without governmental support.”
Reiterating his government’s responsibility, he added, “When we hold your hand and provide support, it is not a reflection of your helplessness or weakness. It is our responsibility, and we will fulfill it.”
On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasized the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region.
“Over a crore pilgrims visit Jammu for Mata Vaishno Devi every year. If we can successfully divert even 15% of them to local tourist destinations, we would gain 15 lakh tourists immediately. We have managed the entire tourism economy of Kashmir with just 15 lakh tourists,” he remarked.
He stressed the need to showcase Jammu’s unique cultural heritage.
“Our Dogra culture-this is treasure unique to Jammu. Our traditions, food, and specialties are unmatched and must be leveraged as key selling points for tourism.”
On the resumption of the now-defunct Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah highlighted its positive impact on Jammu’s vibrancy.
“The hallmark of Jammu city was the biannual Darbar Move. For six months, people from Srinagar would work here, creating a lively environment. It fostered interaction between people from both sides of the mountains, whether at Wave Mall, Residency Road, or Gole Market. I assure you that we will resume the Darbar Move in the future. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from doing so this time,” he said.
Discussing the impact of industrial packages, he cautioned against their transient nature. “Industries attracted solely by packages stay only as long as the incentives last. Once the benefits end, they pack up and leave. The industries that endure are those rooted in this land, run by people who are inherently connected to it,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges related to lease agreements for institutions and businesses.
“Today, schools on leased land are being asked to produce 10-year leases, failing which their registration will not be renewed. Similarly, hotels on leased land cannot even make minor repairs due to the absence of valid leases. These issues need immediate attention,” he added.
Omar Abdullah, in his conclusion, assured his government’s commitment to addressing industrial concerns.
“Whatever issues you want us to raise with the Finance Minister, please provide me with a detailed note. We will take them up with the Government of India and work toward tangible solutions,” he said.
CM Omar Abdullah reaffirms his Govt’s support to revive J&K’s industrial sector
Government’s handholding is our responsibility; Focus would be on Tourism, Local Industries, Cultural Heritage to drive economic growth, says CM at JCCI event
Pledges revival of Darbar Move
JAMMU, DECEMBER 9: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting local industries in overcoming the challenges they are currently facing.
Speaking at an event organized by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) at its office, the Chief Minister was felicitated for assuming office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister of Forest, Ecology and Environment Javed Ahmad Rana, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, JCCI President Arun Gupta, Vice President and General Secretary of JCCI, former presidents, and other members. Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Principal Secretary Finance, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce, and Director Industries & Commerce Jammu, were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is no shortage of issues. If I were to claim that these problems have only emerged in the past decade, it would be misleading. These challenges are not new, nor are they solely the result of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. However, the UT transition has undoubtedly compounded these issues,” he stated.
Highlighting the geographical constraints of the region, the Chief Minister said, “Several challenges stem from our location. Jammu and Kashmir is situated in a corner of the country. Our market is very small, and our raw material base is limited. An industry that relies on importing raw materials and exporting finished products cannot sustain itself without governmental support.”
Reiterating his government’s responsibility, he added, “When we hold your hand and provide support, it is not a reflection of your helplessness or weakness. It is our responsibility, and we will fulfill it.”
On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasized the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region.
“Over a crore pilgrims visit Jammu for Mata Vaishno Devi every year. If we can successfully divert even 15% of them to local tourist destinations, we would gain 15 lakh tourists immediately. We have managed the entire tourism economy of Kashmir with just 15 lakh tourists,” he remarked.
He stressed the need to showcase Jammu’s unique cultural heritage.
“Our Dogra culture-this is treasure unique to Jammu. Our traditions, food, and specialties are unmatched and must be leveraged as key selling points for tourism.”
On the resumption of the now-defunct Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah highlighted its positive impact on Jammu’s vibrancy.
“The hallmark of Jammu city was the biannual Darbar Move. For six months, people from Srinagar would work here, creating a lively environment. It fostered interaction between people from both sides of the mountains, whether at Wave Mall, Residency Road, or Gole Market. I assure you that we will resume the Darbar Move in the future. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from doing so this time,” he said.
Discussing the impact of industrial packages, he cautioned against their transient nature. “Industries attracted solely by packages stay only as long as the incentives last. Once the benefits end, they pack up and leave. The industries that endure are those rooted in this land, run by people who are inherently connected to it,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges related to lease agreements for institutions and businesses.
“Today, schools on leased land are being asked to produce 10-year leases, failing which their registration will not be renewed. Similarly, hotels on leased land cannot even make minor repairs due to the absence of valid leases. These issues need immediate attention,” he added.
Omar Abdullah, in his conclusion, assured his government’s commitment to addressing industrial concerns.
“Whatever issues you want us to raise with the Finance Minister, please provide me with a detailed note. We will take them up with the Government of India and work toward tangible solutions,” he said.
