JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today reiterated government’s commitment to speed up the infrastructure development besides addressing the environmental concerns.
He was interacting with the locals after laying foundation stone for a road project from Santokh Vihar besides allied links at Kunjwani.
The road will address the connectivity concerns of a large number of population living in the area and is being undertaken by the R & B department.
The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the pace of work on the Buffalo farm being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs.12.67 crore at Chatha. The stipulated time for completion of the project is 2 years.
He inspected the ongoing construction work to assess the progress and address any bottlenecks in smooth execution of the project.
A team of DIQC officers was also accompanying the Dy CM which conducted an on spot assessment of the material being used in construction of the ongoing project.
In addition to infrastructure development, the Dy CM visited several mining sites to evaluate adherence to environmental norms. He emphasised the importance of responsible mining practices, urging the officials and stakeholders to prioritise ecological balance while extracting the resources.
“The government is committed towards sustainable development and is ensuring all projects must align with the environmental regulations to prevent degradation,” he stated during his inspection. He directed the authorities to enforce strict measures against illegal mining and take corrective actions wherever necessary.
The visit also included interactions with the local residents and officials, where he assured them of the administration’s dedication towards addressing their concerns and accelerating developmental initiatives in a responsible manner. He was accompanied by the senior officers of local administration, DMO Jammu and officers of R& B department during his visit.
Dy CM lays foundation for road link, inspects mining sites; emphasises environmental sustainability
CS Atal Dulloo chairs 15th UT Level Bankers’ Committee meeting
Urges banks to provide banking services in all Unbanked Rural Centers (URCs) through banking outlets
Emphasizes upon banks to further improve lending under Priority sector
Launches J&K Bank Lal Ded Stree Shakti Loan Scheme to provide credit to women beneficiaries
JAMMU: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today chaired the 15th Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committee (UTLBC) meeting to review the performance of banks and financial institutions in dispensation of credit and other banking services for the first three quarters of the fiscal year 2024-25.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Finance Department, Santosh D. Vaidya; J&K Bank MD & CEO and Convener J&K UTLBC, Amitava Chatterjee; Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Department Sanjeev Verma; Chief General Manager NABARD, Bhallamudi Sridhar; General Manager Reserve Bank of India Neeraj Kumar, J&K Bank’s Executive Director Sudhir Gupta, along with other senior officials from RBI, NABARD, banks, government departments, insurance companies and Lead District Managers.
While presenting financial achievements of banks for the first three quarters of FY 2024-25, the house was informed by General Manager UTLBC Syed Rais Maqbool that banks in the UT of J&K have disbursed Rs. 51,647 crore to 13.22 lakh beneficiaries, achieving 99.63% of the Annual Credit Plan in financial terms and 79% in physical terms.
Furthermore, loans amounting to Rs.1082 crore were sanctioned to 26,637 beneficiaries under major employment generation schemes.
While expressing concern over shortfall in achievement of targets under Priority Sector especially lending under employment generation schemes, Chief Secretary exhorted upon banks and sponsoring agencies to work in tandem to achieve the targets by the end of current financial year.
Chief Secretary directed banks to ensure setting up of banking touch points in all identified Unbanked Rural Centers (URCs) by June 30 this year.
He stressed upon the banks to make accounts KYC compliant through linkage of Aadhaar Card, Pan Card and other requisite documents to mitigate the risks and also ensure benefits under Direct Benefit Transfer aren’t impeded to the eligible people.
While urging banks to improve lending under KCC scheme, Chief Secretary emphasized upon popularizing the benefits of prompt repayment in Kisan Credit Card Accounts enabling beneficiaries to avail the benefit of interest subvention provided by the Government under this scheme.
He encouraged banks to tap the huge potential in education sector in J&K by granting education loan facility to the students seeking admission in various colleges and universities within and outside the Country.
While advocating for encouraging people to lodge claims under social security schemes, Chief Secretary pressed for hassle-free claim lodging and settlement process in the time bound manner.
On the occasion, Chief Secretary launched J&K Bank Lal Ded Stree Shakti Loan Scheme-designed by the Bank in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission- for women folk of J&K with an aim to empower them by extending financial support that will enable them to realize their entrepreneurial dreams.
He lauded J&K Bank for the scheme and hoped the credit facility will go a long way in helping women of J&K achieve financial empowerment.
The house was also informed that J&K Bank and J&K Grameen Bank together have provided a credit of Rs 100 Crore to women Self Help Groups (SHGs) formed under DAY-NRLM in a single day on March 07, 2025 to mark International Women’s Day.
On the occasion a token cheque was handed over to Mission Director JKRLM to celebrate the accomplishment.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Convener UTLBC Amitava Chatterjee highlighted role of banks in driving economic transformation in the region and reiterated Banks’ commitment in strengthening priority sector lending with a focus on agriculture, education, MSMEs & rural housing, catalyzing the effective implementation of Central and UT Government sponsored schemes and prioritizing financial inclusion by expanding banking infrastructure in rural areas.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks presented by the General Manager, J&K UTLBC.
J&K Sports Council celebrates International Women’s Day at Gulmarg Ski Slopes
GULMARG: The Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council celebrated International Women’s Day on Saturday with a vibrant skiing event at the picturesque slopes of Gulmarg.
The event was flagged-off by Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, along with CEO, Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain and other senior officials.
Led by Divisional Sports Officer, Kashmir, Nusrat Gazala, the event witnessed the participation of around 50 women athletes in a thrilling ski run.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, emphasized the significance of empowering women through sports and reiterated the Government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for female athletes across disciplines. She commended the participants for their enthusiasm and encouraged more women to take up adventure sports.
The ski run also served as a build-up to the much-anticipated Khelo India Winter Games 2025, scheduled to commence from Sunday in Gulmarg.
The celebration concluded with a felicitation ceremony, acknowledging the efforts and achievements of the participating athletes
International Women’s Day celebrated with enthusiasm, gaiety across Jammu
JAMMU: Variety cultural shows and felicitation events marked the celebration of the International Women’s Day across Jammu Division.
AT POONCH: The Department of Social Welfare, in collaboration with the District Administration, celebrated International Women’s Day at the Auditorium Hall of SKC Government Degree College. The event was marked by great enthusiasm and passion among attendees.
Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal was the Chief Guest. Other attendees included the PO ICDS, CEO, CMO, CDPO Haveli, Women Army Officers, ASP and female achievers from different fields. The District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Sakhi One Stop Centre, and Superintendent Parisha/Palaash were also present.
The celebration featured the recitation of the National Anthem, along with a vibrant cultural program that included dance performances, skits, and other activities by local artists and students. Additionally, thought-provoking speeches were delivered by students from different educational institutions. Deputy Commissioner Kundal inspected the stalls set up by different departments, including a Free Medical Camp, social welfare schemes, handicrafts, handlooms, and the Forest Department.
In his address, the DC emphasized the crucial role of women in nation-building and discussed their rights.
Later, he honored women achievers in various fields, distributed kits among women, and awarded prizes to students and artists who participated in the celebrations.
AT KISHTWAR: The District Administration, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, Municipal Council and the Cooperative Department celebrated International Women’s Day with great enthusiasm and fervor here today. Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan was the Chief Guest and the celebration featured a series of activities that highlighted the achievements, contributions, and entrepreneurship of women in the region.
Stalls were set up by different departments, including DHEW Mission Shakti Kishtwar and other private women entrepreneurs, showcasing Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), women entrepreneurs, and their innovative ventures.
The event marked a milestone as it was the first of its kind where the grievances of women were listened to, with on-the-spot redressal by the Deputy Commissioner.
Women Entrepreneurs and SHGs shared their success stories, providing inspiration for others to follow suit. Notably, private SHGs also participated, showcasing their entrepreneurial journey.
The event also recognized the efforts of women officers, entrepreneurs, and three women-led cooperatives registered under the Self-Reliant Act of 1999 by the Cooperative Department, who were felicitated on the occasion, among others.
AT RAJOURI: The District Administration Rajouri, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, celebrated International Women’s Day with a series of events. The main event was held at Dak Bungalow where Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma was the chief guest.
As part of the celebrations, women achievers were felicitated for their remarkable contribution to society. A special legal awareness session was conducted by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to educate women about their rights and entitlements.
Key speakers deliberated on various aspects of women’s empowerment, while the Cultural Department Rajouri presented a thought-provoking play on the theme of gender equality.
In a significant step toward women’s skill development, around 120 female students trained in computer courses under the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” initiative at ITI Rajouri were awarded certificates, recognizing successful completion of their training.
AT UDHAMPUR: International Women’s Day was celebrated with enthusiasm and fervor in Udhampur. An impressive function was organized by the District Administration in collaboration with the District Police and Social Welfare Department here at DPL.
Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai was the chief guest, while Senior Superintendent of Police Amod Ashok Nagpure was the guest of honor and District Social Welfare Officer Kanika Gupta presided over the event.
The DC congratulated the participants and underscored the importance of spreading awareness about women’s empowerment. She stressed that such programs play a crucial role in fostering education and ensuring equal participation of women in all sectors.
A theme-based cultural program, aimed at sensitizing the audience on gender equality and women’s rights, was presented by artists and students.
AT REASI: The District Administration Reasi celebrated International Women’s Day 2025 with great enthusiasm and purpose, under the theme “For All Women and Girls: Equality, Rights, Empowerment”. Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik was the chief guest.
The DC along with other dignitaries felicitated the women achievers in various categories. The distribution of laptops to top-performing girls from schools and colleges stood as a testament to the district’s commitment to supporting women’s education. Additionally, sports kits were provided to girls excelling in sports, while menstrual hygiene kits were distributed among school girls, emphasizing the importance of health and wellness. Women from various backgrounds, students, officers, and members of self-help groups, shared their inspiring journeys, shedding light on the challenges they have overcome and their relentless pursuit of excellence. A cultural performance by the girls from GDC Reasi added a vibrant touch to the event.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the significance of International Women’s Day. SSP Anita Sharma also highlighted the importance of women in society.
AT SAMBA: The District Administration Samba, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Services & Sports and Social Welfare Department, hosted a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day featuring an inspiring volleyball tournament at the prestigious Rani Suchet Singh Sports Stadium.
District Development Commissioner Rajesh Sharma was the Chief Guest while SDM Ghagwal, Sunaina was the Guest of Honour.
The event showcased the athletic prowess of women from the Youth Services & Sports Department field staff, highlighting the district’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment through sports.
Meanwhile, International Women’s Day was celebrated at Supwal Panchayat in Samba district, highlighting the achievements and contributions of women in the Block.
District Magistrate Rajesh Sharma- the Chief Guest said “Empowering women is key to building a stronger and more progressive society. Their contributions at all levels are invaluable and must be recognized and supported.”
Additional Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Kusum Chib, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment and their vital role in society.
Joint enforcement drive conducted to curb traffic violations in Jammu
JAMMU: A joint enforcement drive was carried out today at multiple locations in Jammu, including Indira Chowk, Ware House, Panjtirthi and Amphalla.
The drive was conducted by the order of District Magistrate Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, and more such drives will continue in the coming days to ensure strict compliance with traffic laws.
The drive was conducted by the enforcement team included ARTO Bipen Singh Charak, DySP Anubhuti, Tehsildar Jammu Khas Paramdeep Singh, Inspector Raza Ali, Motor Vehicle Inspectors Azad Hussain and Rajiv Kundal, MVTA Taranjot Singh, along with other traffic police personnel.
During the operation, around 300 vehicles were inspected, leading to the issuance of 53 e-challans for various traffic violations. Additionally, three vehicles were seized due to serious infractions. The expected revenue collection from the e-challans stands at ₹1,14,400.
The enforcement team also engaged with motorists, educating them on traffic rules and the importance of adhering to safety norms to prevent accidents and congestion.
MP Jugal Kishore initiates Parikrama Yatra at Katra
Says spiritual event will boost Development, Tourism in district Reasi
REASI,: Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma today initiated the 108-kilometer Parikrama Yatra of Trikuta Parbat. District Development Council Chairman Saraf Singh Nag, MLA Reasi Kuldeep Raj Dubey, MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Baldev Raj Sharma were also present at the Parikrama Yatra which commenced with a Shubharambh Puja at Bhumika Mandir Katra at 7:30 am.
The spiritual journey aims at connecting the religious and historical sites around the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and Trikuta Parbat. The event witnessed participation from the prominent leaders, DDC members, key officials including ADDC Reasi Sukhdev Samyal, SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, Tehsildar Reasi, AD Tourism , XENs and others.
The Parikrama Yatra, which follows a meticulously planned route covering key religious sites, began from Bhumika Mandir and proceeded to Reasi to visit revered Kalika ji Mandir at 9:00 AM. The procession then continued through Chiralakote, Tote, Devigarh, Sukhalgati, and Panthal before culminating back at Bhumika Mandir, completing the Parikrama of Trikuta Parbat at 8:00 PM.
During the launch, the MP emphasized the spiritual significance of the Yatra, stating, “We are starting this Yatra at the foot of Maa Vaishno Devi at Bhumika Mandir with the aim of respecting the religious and spiritual sentiments of the people connected to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and Trikuta Parbat. This Yatra will also help connect many unhighlighted religious and historical places around the shrine.”
Sharma further highlighted that the initiative aims to promote holistic regional development, particularly in backward villages along the route. He expressed hope that the Parikrama Yatra would lead to the development of basic amenities in these areas, improving the overall infrastructure, boosting tourism, and contributing to the economic growth and employment opportunities for the youth. The MP stressed that this endeavor would significantly enhance the tourism potential of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, benefiting the local population.
MP Jugal Kishore also emphasised that concerned departments should put in their utmost efforts to ensure the success of this Yatra, citing the example of the Goverdhan Yatra in Vrindavan as a model for such spiritual journeys.
The Parikrama Yatra, with its deep cultural and spiritual significance, has attracted a large number of devotees and will continue to highlight the sacred legacy of Trikuta Parbat and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
Sakeena Itoo felicitates J&K Women Achievers 2025 of ASSOCHAM at Jammu
JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo felicitated the J&K Women Achievers 2025 of 5th Edition of ASSOCHAM here today.
Addressing the gathering of women achievers, the Minister said that this is an important day for women folk to celebrate and recognize their resilience, dedication and remarkable achievements in various domains like education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, social service, sports and other fields. She applauded the achievers for breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks of success.
“Women have always been the backbone of progress. By seeing your achievements, I am also feeling over whelmed”, Sakeena stated.
“Women have taken a leap in male dominated society and excelled in every field”, she added.
She assured the women achievers and entrepreneurs present on the occasion that the government is committed to provide them all possible support so that they can thrive in their respective fields.
Director General, Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra also spoke on the occasion and enlightened the audience about the importance of celebrating this day.
On the occasion, different women achievers and entrepreneurs, excelling in fields like manufacturing, beauty and wellness, retailing, media, social work, startups and innovation, education and other fields were felicitated by the Minister.
J&K High Cour Bar Association Jammu Delegation Calls on LG Manoj Sinha
JAMMU: A delegation of J&K High Court Bar Association Jammu led by its President Advocate K. Nirmal Kotwal today called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha.
The delegation comprised of former Presidents and office-bearers of the J&K High Court Bar Association Jammu including Adv. AK Sawhney, Adv. MK Bhardwaj, Adv. DK Khajuria, Adv. Baldev Singh, Adv. Pardeep Majotra, Adv. Anshu Mahajan and Adv. Rahul Aggarwal, apprised the Lieutenant Governor on various welfare issues of the legal fraternity.
Women empowerment must for creating just, equitable society: Sakeena Itoo
Addresses International Women’s Day celebrations at Jammu
Expresses gratitude to CM Omar Abdullah for women welfare measures in Budget
JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today remarked that Women have excelled in every field, performing a crucial role in shaping the society.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing the International Women’s Day celebrations at Convention Centre here. This years theme of International Women’s Day, ‘Accelerate Action,’ calls for rapid advancements in gender equality.
Addressing the large gathering of women achievers and female students, Sakeena Itoo emphasized on the importance of gender equality, women’s empowerment and inclusive development for creating a just and equitable society. She called for continued efforts to ensure participation of women in all spheres of life.
“Women are backbone of our society. We must work collectively to create an environment where women feel safe, valued and empowered to achieve their dreams”, she stated.
The Minister applauded the resilience and achievements of women from various walks of life, encouraging them to break barriers and contribute to nation-building. “We need to recognise the strength, resilience and contributions of women in every field, from science and politics to business and arts, civil services to healthcare providers and educationists and reflect on the work that still lies ahead”, Sakeena said.
While speaking on different aspects related to women empowerment, the Minister highlighted that some issues like dowry and drug menace are prevalent in our society and we need to work collectively to destroy the roots of these evils from our society.
“We all need to remember that the fight for equality is not just for the women, but for all of us. When women succeed, communities thrive, economies grow and societies become more just”, Sakeena stated.
In her address, the Minister also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, for announcing several measures for women welfare and empowerment while presenting Budget in the Legislative Assembly. She said that the free travel in government buses for women folk will ensure increase in female literacy rate and add to empowerment of women across Jammu and Kashmir.
She added that marriage assistance to deserving women has also been increased from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 75,000, besides old age/widow and disability pension has also been increased.
Calling out women to aspire big, Sakeena Itoo said that times have changed and women are everywhere and in every field. She asked the women folk to pledge today that they will aspire for big dreams and remain determined to achieve those.
The Minister, on the occasion, also said that it is proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir, especially women folk that a daughter of soil is Medical Superintendent of AIIMS, New Delhi a prestigious health institution of our country.
In his welcome address, MD Mission Shakti and Mission Vastalya, Majid Khalil Drabu said that this day is celebrated to honour the incredible achievements of women and acknowledge difficulties faced by them. He said that we as a society have a role to play in creating a world where women have equal opportunities to fulfil their potential and achieve their aspirations and dreams.
A short film on different schemes operated by Social Welfare department regarding empowering women and transforming lives was also showcased on the occasion.
On the occasion, the Minister felicitated several women achievers of J&K like Kailash Mehra, Dr. Milan Sharma, Surinder Kour, Rubeena, Nazia Bibi, Sunita Sharma, Sangeeta Devi, Gurmeet Kour, Kumti Khajuria and Shagun Manchanda. She also felicitated sports achievers like Chavi Sharma, Ria Bhakshi and Jia Manhas on the occasion.
She also distributed tabs among the meritorious girl students.
The event also witnessed remarkable performances by Sonali Dogra on Beti Bachao Beti Padao and other artist group.
On the occasion, some remarkable women achievers of J&K like Indian Para Archer, Sheetal Devi, International Car racer, Humaira Mushtaq and Medical Superintendent of AIIMS New Delhi, Dr. Nirupama Madan gave unique video messages to women folk on how to excel in lives.
Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare department, Sanjeev Verma; HoDs of Health/Colleges/ Social Welfare, senior officers of concerned departments and large number of women achievers and female students were present to mark the International Women’s Day celebrations.
DC inspects sanitation, beautification works in Rajouri Town
RAJOURI,: Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma today conducted an extensive tour of the Rajouri town, reviewing key infrastructure and sanitation projects aimed at enhancing civic amenities.
During the visit to Old Girls Higher Secondary School, the DC directed the concerned authorities to plan for utilization of the building. He emphasized the need to provide students with improved facilities to foster academic and extracurricular excellence.
Further, the Deputy Commissioner undertook a review of sanitation measures in the town. He instructed Civic Authorities to install screens along Abdullah Bridge to prevent indiscriminate disposal of garbage into the river, ensuring environmental conservation and cleanliness.
The DC also inspected the ongoing repair work on Abdullah Pedestrian Bridge. To beautify and promote awareness about government schemes, he ordered the painting of walls adjacent to the Nursing College and Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS). These walls will showcase key welfare schemes of the government departments for public information.
In a significant urban development initiative, the DC directed the establishment of a dedicated Rehri Zone alongside the river near Abdullah Bridge to streamline street vending and prevent traffic congestion in the area.
Additionally, as part of the ongoing Swachh Bharat Mission, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the involvement of college and Higher Secondary School (HSS) students, along with Self-Help Group (SHG) members, as Brand Ambassadors of Swachhta to promote cleanliness and hygiene across the district.
Accompanying the DC during the visit were Chief Planning Officer (CPO), Maqsood Ahmed; Executive Officer (EO) Municipality, Yousuf ul Umar and other district and sectoral officers.