The hospital will offer services in specialities, using latest cutting-edge healthcare technology
India has made rapid strides in healthcare in past 10 years: LG Sinha
Our innovations in technologies and treatment are rated amongst the best and our healthcare professionals have demonstrated excellence and they are competing with leading health institutions of developed countries: LG
We should now focus on expanding the coverage of health services and giving access to affordable medical facilities to the people in far flung areas while ensuring quality service across a vast spectrum of healthcare: LG Sinha
The high standard of our care practices, along with equitable, integrated and people-centered, comparative cost advantages and efficient services have made India a favourite destination for medical treatment: LG
JAMMU: LG Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the Shri Birendra Rai Hospital at Areraj, Motihari, Bihar.
The Lieutenant Governor congratulated and extended his felicitations to the family members of Late Shri Birendra Rai and everyone associated with the hospital which will offer services in specialities, using latest cutting-edge healthcare technology.
“Shri Birendra Rai Ji’s family has steered this esteemed institution for public service and care. I convey my good wishes to Shri Rajeev Kumar, Dr Sanjeev Kumar and his family for the dedicated service that they are doing,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor spoke on the rapid strides made by India in healthcare, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in the past 10 years.
The Lieutenant Governor said, “Our innovations in technologies and treatment are rated amongst the best and our healthcare professionals have demonstrated excellence and they are competing with leading health institutions of developed countries.
The high standard of our care practices, along with equitable, integrated and people-centered, comparative cost advantages and efficient services have made India a favourite destination for medical treatment”.
In view of the emerging challenges in health sector, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised on paying special attention to developing specialised human resource, and extending quality and affordable medical care to all through a close collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“We should now focus on expanding the coverage of health services and giving access to affordable medical facilities to the people in far flung areas while ensuring quality service across a vast spectrum of healthcare,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Lieutenant Governor inaugurates Shri Birendra Rai Hospital at Areraj, Motihari, Bihar
50MVA GIS Grid sub-station proposed for Pahalgam under 2022-27 transmission plan: CM Omar Abdullah
JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today informed the Legislative Assembly that a 50MVA, 220/33kV GIS Grid Sub-Station at Batkote (Pahalgam) has been proposed under the perspective transmission plan for Jammu and Kashmir for the period 2022-27.
While responding to a starred question by MLA Altaf Ahmad Wani, the Chief Minister, who also holds the portfolio of Power Department, stated that the projects under the transmission plan, including the Batkote Grid Station, are being implemented in a phased manner, depending on load growth and technical feasibility.
“As per the current guidelines issued under the Ministry of Power/Tariff Policy, projects exceeding the threshold limits set by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) can be executed through the Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) mode. Based on JERC regulations, which fix ₹100 crore as the threshold limit, the most suitable mode for the project is being examined, and a decision will be taken in due course, considering the prevailing price levels,” the Chief Minister stated.
Regarding land acquisition, the Chief Minister informed the House that the identification of land for the proposed Grid Substation is currently underway.
Samba police detained 20 vagrants near Chitta hotspot, sent to district jail Kathua
Samba: In a decisive action against drug abuse, Samba Police has detained twenty (20) vagrants under preventive sections of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) who were found roaming near chitta hotspot in the jurisdiction of Police Station Bari Brahmana and sent them to district Jail Kathua.
Acting on specific inputs, a team from Police Station Bari Brahmana headed by SHO PS Bari Brahmana under the supervision of SDPO Bari Brahmana and under the overall supervision of SSP Samba conducted a special operation around infamous chitta hotspot Balole Khad Bari Brahmana and detained twenty vagrants wandering suspiciously in the area.
The detained vagrants have been identified as Gulshan Kumar, Vivek Singh, Raj Kumar, Ajit Kumar, Kushab Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar, Mohd Abid Ganie, Vijay Kumar, Ankush Kumar, Rajesh Singh, Asif Nabi, Rinkar, Shamra, Amir Mehmood Khan, Sulel Jepseph Knoker, Deepak Khajuria, Anket Ananad, Abil Anand, Vimal Koul, Rahul Thakur and Rohit Gupta. This move aims to curb drug-related offenses and rehabilitate those involved in narcotics substance abuse.
Samba Police has reiterated its commitment to eliminate the drug menace from the society and assured that stringent action will continue against those involved in drug peddling and drug abuse. The general public is encouraged to remain vigilant and support Police in its efforts to maintain a drug-free society.
JKBOSE teams conduct surprise inspection of exam centers
JAMMU: Continuing its inspection drive to ensure fair and transparent examinations, the teams of Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education conducted surprise inspections at 100 examination centers across all 20 districts.
During the inspection, as many as 95 students were found resorting to unfair-means practices and were accordingly booked.
The Board has expressed its commitment to ensuring fair, transparent and smooth examinations with the cooperation of center superintendents and invigilators.
The Board is presently conducting examinations of 10th, 11th and 12th class, which are underway and are scheduled to be concluded by end of March 2025.
Tourism in border areas has revived: CM Omar Abdullah
Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today stated that the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) and international border has led to a revival of tourism activities in frontier areas. Replying to a supplementary question raised by Member Sajad Shafi regarding his Uri constituency, the Chief Minister, who also holds the Tourism portfolio, informed the House that as the border areas are slowly opening after the ceasefire along the LoC and border, tourism is witnessing a positive trend due to the prevailing peace in the region.
“It is true that Uri has huge border tourism potential. Tourists have started visiting areas like Uri and are eager to explore places such as Aman Setu and other scenic locations. Our priority is to enhance tourism infrastructure in these regions,” Omar Abdullah said.
In response to a starred question from the member, he stated that the feasibility of establishing a Zipline or Cable Car project from Lagama to Baba Farred Garkote in Uri Constituency would be assessed by the Tourism Department. However, he clarified that no such proposal is currently under consideration.
The Chief Minister further said that the development of locations such as Rustom and Nambla Waterfalls, with their inclusion under the Border Tourism Programme, would be considered in the future, subject to feasibility and availability of resources.
Highlighting the potential of adventure tourism, he noted that Bijham and Limber Waterfall/Limber Wildlife Sanctuary are well known for attracting adventure enthusiasts.
The Tourism Department has undertaken several initiatives for the holistic development of these areas, he said.
The Chief Minister said that while the department does not directly operate paragliding activities, it facilitates them through private adventure tourism operators.
Additionally, capacity-building programs are conducted for aspiring trainers, and permissions for paragliding are granted after a feasibility survey.
Regarding camping facilities, the Chief Minister informed that the Tourism Department facilitates and grants permission for setting up of camping colonies at the Gantamulla reservoir on the banks of River Jhelum.
The government has already developed key tourism assets to facilitate visitors traveling from Baramulla to Salamabad, Uri.
These, he said, include the development of Khadinyar Park, a tourist cafeteria and TIC at Boniyar, a tourist cafeteria at Salamabad in Uri, and a Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) at Salamabad. Additionally, the gutted cafeteria at Eco-Park Khadinyar has been reconstructed.
2 gangsters arrested with arms, sharp edged weapon, heroin in Samba
Samba: Samba Police has arrested two gangsters in the jurisdiction of Police Station Ramgarh and recovered one 32 bore desi pistol, seven live rounds, sharp edged weapon (Tokka) and 8.13 grams approximately heroin like substance from their possession.
An information was received through reliable resources at Police Station Ramgarh that two gangsters namely Pritam Singh @ Sethi S/o Mohan Singh R/o Jerda tehsil Ramgarh district Samba and Narayan Sharma @ Shunna S/o Brita Lal R/o Thalori Vijaypur with criminal intention and having illegal weapons/ fire arms are present in the house of one Anoop Singh @ Makhan S/o Balvinder Singh R/o Ramgarh and are planning to commit heinous offence.
Acting over the information, a Police team headed by SHO PS Ramgarh under the supervision of SDPO Vijaypur and under the overall supervision of SSP Samba arrested both the gangsters namely Pritam Singh @ Sethi and Narayan Sharma @ Shunna from the said house of Anoop Singh @ Makhan and recovered one 32 bore desi pistol, 07 live rounds, a sharp edged weapon (Tokka) and 8.13 grams approximately heroin like substance from their possession. The vehicle THAR bearing registration No. JK21J-0024 has also been seized.
A case FIR No. 17/2025 U/S 111 BNS, 3/4/25 Arms Act, 8/21/22 NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Ramgarh and further investigation is going on.
It is pertinent to mention here that multiple criminal cases have been registered against both the gangsters in various districts of Jammu province including district Samba.
Thrills & triumphs mark inaugural day of Khelo India Winter Games 2025
GULMARG,:The pristine snow-covered slopes of Kangdoori in Gulmarg came alive on Sunday as the 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025 kicked off with high-octane action and a breathtaking display of athleticism.
The grand sporting event set the stage for some of the finest winter sports performances India has ever witnessed.
The air crackled with excitement as athletes from across the country vied for supremacy, their determination etched in every swift turn, every daring descent, and every triumphant leap over the powdery snow.
Against the backdrop of the stunning mountains range, competitors showcased their grit and finesse, leaving the crowd spellbound.
The opening day featured fiercely contested events, with participants battling not just their rivals but also the elements.
In the Men’s Snowboarding Slalom, Jammu and Kashmir’s Mehrajuddin Khan carved his way to gold with a flawless run, while his compatriot Zubair Ahmad Lone secured silver in an electrifying finish. Vivek Rana from the Army clinched bronze, completing the podium for an event that had spectators at the edge of their seats.
The Women’s Snowboarding Slalom saw Menka Gunjiyal of Uttarakhand glide effortlessly to victory, claiming gold. The battle for silver and bronze was fierce, with Himachal Pradesh’s Sakshi Thakur and Natasha Maher securing second and third places, in a thrilling contest of skill and speed.
In the Ski Mountaineering Men’s Sprint, Army’s Rajeshwar Singh dominated the treacherous ascent and descent, seizing the gold. Siddharth from Maharashtra put up a commendable effort to secure silver, while Mayank Dimri from Uttarakhand bagged bronze in an event that tested the endurance and agility of the competitors.
In the Alpine Skiing Slalom, witnessed Yogesh Kumar from Himachal Pradesh clinching gold with a masterful display of precision and control. Jigmet Rafastan from the Army took silver, while his teammate Bakir Hussain secured bronze, capping off a day of exhilarating action on the slopes.
In the final competition of the, Bhawani Thekkada of Karnataka won gold in the Women’s 5 km Nordic Skiing event. Selma Soreng of ITBP earned a well-deserved silver, while her teammate Kusum Rana to clinched the bronze.
Beyond the competition, the true spirit of the Khelo India Winter Games was evident in the jubilant celebrations of the athletes. The powdery snowfields of Gulmarg turned into a playground of joy as victors and participants alike reveled in their shared love for winter sports.
“It’s not just about winning. It’s about feeling the adrenaline rush, pushing your limits, and embracing the beauty of the mountains,” said gold medalist Mehrajuddin Khan, his breath visible in the crisp mountain air.
The participating athletes echoed similar sentiments.
“Competing here, amidst these majestic peaks, is an experience like no other. The camaraderie among athletes makes it even more special,” they said.
The opening day of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 proved to be an unforgettable spectacle, with more thrilling action on the horizon.
As the competition intensifies in the coming days, Gulmarg’s snow-laden slopes are set to witness more moments of glory and unyielding determination.
Medalists:
Snowboarding Slalom (Men)
Gold: Mehrajuddin Khan (J&K)
Silver: Zubair Ahmad Lone (J&K)
Bronze: Vivek Rana (Army)
Snowboarding Slalom (Women)
Gold: Menka Gunjiyal (Uttrakhand)
Silver: Sakshi Thakur (Himachal Pradesh)
Bronze: Natasha Maher (Himachal Prades)
Ski Mountaineering Men’s Spirint
Gold: Rajeshwar Singh (Army)
Silver: Siddharth (Maharashtra)
Bronze: Mayank Dimri (Uttrakhand)
Alpine Skiing Slalom
Gold: Yogesh Kumar (HP)
Silver: Jigmet Rafastan (Army)
Bronze: Bakir Hussain (Army)
Nordic Skiing (5 km Women)
Gold: Bhawani Thekkada (KAR)
Silver: Selma Soreng (ITBP)
Bronze Kusum Rana (ITBP)
LG Sinha attends inaugural ceremony of 5th Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg
GULMARG: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the inaugural ceremony of 5th Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg today.
The Lieutenant Governor welcomed and conveyed his best wishes to athletes and team officials from all over the country participating in different winter-sports disciplines.
“Khelo India Winter Games symbolizes the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. The world-famous winter tourism destination Gulmarg has been developed as a winter sports city. I welcome you all.
A real champion is made not by victory or defeat but by passion, enthusiasm, courage and sportsmanship. This is your opportunity to show the world the skills and unique abilities you have acquired after years of hard-work and inspire the young generation.
Let us strengthen our bond as a family by imbibing the values of sportsmanship, brotherhood, and promote peace, unity and harmony,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, J&K Sports Department, Sports Council and all stakeholders for promoting robust sports culture, and developing start-of-the-art sports infrastructure and allied facilities, along with global standard coaching, in the UT of Jammu Kashmir.
“I am proud of what we have achieved in the last 4 and a half years. Today, the UT of Jammu Kashmir has become a home to the national and international level sporting events. International cricket has returned to the Kashmir Valley after three decades. The success of previous editions of Khelo India Winter Games, inspirational success stories of our sportspersons in various sports disciplines reflects our Sporting Power,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also spoke on the key initiatives taken by the government to promote sports in Jammu Kashmir.
Around 4500 players are being trained in 92 Khelo India Centers in different parts of Jammu Kashmir. Last year 15,000 players from Jammu Kashmir participated at the national and zonal level. Water Sports Academy and Fencing Academy have been established at Nehru Park, Srinagar and MA Stadium, Jammu, respectively.
We are soon going to complete the construction of the prestigious Khel Gaon in Nagrota and high-performance training centres are being developed across the districts in J&K in a phased manner to enhance the training and performance of the athletes, he further said.
Mehrajuddin Khan (J&K), Rajeshwar Singh (Army), Yogesh Kumar (Himachal Pradesh), Menka Gunjiyal (Uttarakhand), Bhawani Thekkada (Karnataka) and Sunny Singh (Army) were emerged as winners in today’s Snowboarding Slalom (Men), Ski Mountaineering Sprint (Men), Alpine Skiing Slalom, Ski Mountaineering Sprint (Women) and Nordic Ski events.
Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports; Shri Farooq Ahmed Shah, Member of Legislative Assembly from Gulmarg; Shri Nazir Ahmad, Member of Legislative Assembly from Gurez; Shri Minga Sherpa, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; Shri Mayank Srivastav, DDG, Sports Authority of India; Ms Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, senior officials, representatives of Sports Authority of India and various sports organizations, prominent sports personalities and sports enthusiasts in large numbers were present.
Identify, eliminate unnecessary compliances, outdated regulations for business growth: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo
Directs for digitisation of existing MSMEs
JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today directed for identification of all the unnecessary compliances existing in government departments to be done away with for the ease of citizens and business establishments.
Dulloo made these remarks while chairing a meeting held to review the progress of various departments in implementing the Business Reform Action Plan (BRAP) 2024, aimed at enhancing Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in the Union Territory.
Present in the meeting were ACS, Jal Shakti Department; Commissioner Secretary, Forest Department; Commissioner Secretary, I&C; Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA; Secretary, RDD; Commissioner, JMC; Director I&C, Jammu besides other concerned officers.
The Chief Secretary directed the departments to identify and eliminate unnecessary compliance burdens on businesses and citizens at the earliest. He emphasised the need for broad-based consultations with the stakeholders to gather feedback for a comprehensive analysis and action based on merit. He advised for holding separate feedback sessions with all the concerned citizens and other stakeholders in both the divisions to ensure inclusivity in the decision-making process.
Recognizing the significance of a structured approach, Dulloo instructed the Industries & Commerce (I&C) Department to compile department-wise suggestions for deregulation. He noted that the removal of all such outdated regulations should aim at reducing compliance burden on our businesses and citizens alike.
Reviewing the Single Window System, the Chief Secretary stressed the importance of ensuring that all services under the system are provided digitally within a defined timeframe. He directed the I&C Department to analyse whether services are available online or offline at the backend and submit a detailed report with recommendations for making this system useful meeting the original objectives in letter and spirit.
In a significant move towards digital transformation, Dulloo also instructed the department to expedite the digitisation of data related to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He called for appointing Director Industries, Jammu, as the nodal officer to oversee and accelerate this process.
The Chief Secretary emphasized that this initiative should comprehensively document key business aspects including trade details, working capital, credit portfolio, transactions, manpower, and machinery. He highlighted that this analytical data would enable the government to provide timely support, credit linkages and policy interventions to strengthen the MSME sector across the length and breadth of J&K.
Earlier, Commissioner Secretary, I&C, Vikramjit Singh, briefed the meeting on the UT’s progress in BRAP 2024 implementation. He informed that out of 434 reform points across different departments, 424 have successfully been implemented, with the remaining 10 set for completion before the sunset date of March 15th.
He further stated that all necessary evidences have been uploaded on the national portal and final assessment, based on user feedback, will be conducted by DPIIT with results expected in April 2025.
Pertinent to mention here that the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP), developed and distributed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aims to simplify business regulations and create a more business-friendly environment across India by assessing states and UTs based on reforms undertaken.
Till date six editions had been completed from its starting in the year 2015 and BRAP 2024 along with BRAP+ and RCB+ is its seventh edition that is going to be culminated by 15th March, 2025 in all the States/UTs across India.