J&K LG Manoj Sinha said “Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel is scripting a new future of year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. This engineering marvel will significantly reduce travel time, ensure safer travel and provide substantial fuel savings.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi Ji and the relentless efforts of Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji, the Zojila Tunnel will emerge as a lifeline for the region, strengthening supply chains, boosting tourism and providing vital strategic support to our Armed Forces.

Grateful to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji & Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji for making the historic Zojila Tunnel breakthrough a reality. Joined Sh Nitin Gadkari Ji at this landmark occasion, ushering in a new era of connectivity & development for J&K and Ladakh”.

“The Zojila Tunnel Project comprises a 13.153-km tunnel and 17.030 km of approach roads, spanning 30.18 km at a cost of Rs 6,809.69 crore. The 7.57-metre-high, single-tube, two-lane tunnel beneath Zojila Pass will connect Ganderbal in Kashmir with Drass in Ladakh.

Built using the New Austrian Tunneling Method, it is equipped with a Smart Tunnel (SCADA) system, CCTV surveillance, radio communication, uninterrupted power supply and modern ventilation facilities”.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said “The milestone marks a transformative step towards ensuring all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, boosting economic growth, tourism and bringing two regions closer together”.

LG Ladakh VK Saxena said “The historic breakthrough of Zoji La Tunnel, a dream project of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, will prove to be a game changer in the development journey of Ladakh. This would significantly strengthen connectivity in the border regions of Ladakh and provide year-round connectivity with rest of India”.

“Thank you Hon’ble Minister @nitin_gadkari ji, for making this project possible and for supporting Ladakh with new road infrastructure projects, that would improve tourism in the UT, create new livelihood avenues and bolster our collective efforts for sustainable development in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh”, he wrote on X.

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Train number 04606 will depart from Katra on Sunday, 14 June 2026 at 18:15 hrs and will reach Haridwar at 06:30 hrs the next day. In the return direction, train number 04605 will depart from Haridwar on Monday, 15 June 2026 at 17:20 hrs and will reach Katra at 07:00 hrs the next day. Only one trip of this train will be operated.

This will be a fully reserved special train. A total of 16 coaches will be attached, including Sleeper, General, AC 3-Tier and AC 2-Tier coaches. The train will halt at major stations en route including Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan, Jammu Tawi, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar Cantt, Ludhiana, Ambala Cantt, Saharanpur and Roorkee.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Uchit Singhal said, “A huge increase in the number of devotees is witnessed on Somvati Amavasya for visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. This special train is being run with the objective of facilitating passengers and managing the extra rush. He requested passengers to make reservations immediately and travel only with a valid ticket. Passengers can contact 139 for information regarding ticket availability and reservation status.”

Northern Railway has requested devotees to make reservations before travel and maintain cleanliness on station premises. This special train is being run with the aim of providing smooth and safe travel to passengers going for darshan on Somvati Amavasya.

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The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department; Principal Secretary, DMRR&R; Commissioner Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs; Commissioner Secretary, Planning; Commissioner Secretary, GAD; Secretary, Revenue; Secretary, Rural Development Department; Secretary, Transport; Relief Commissioner (Migrants); Chief Engineers of R&B Department; representatives of various departments and senior officers of DMRR&R.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary took a detailed review of the transit accommodation infrastructure created for PM Package employees across different districts of Kashmir. Stressing the need for optimal utilization of the facilities, he directed that all completed flats be allotted and occupied at the earliest. He instructed the Relief Commissioner (Migrants) to ensure that all completed accommodations are taken over by the eligible employees by the end of July this year without fail.

The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of flats under construction at various sites. He further examined the status of allied infrastructure and utility services including electricity, drinking water supply, internal road connectivity, boundary walls and Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to ensure that the colonies are fully functional and habitable.

The meeting also discussed plans for operation and maintenance (O&M) of the transit accommodations as well as migrant colonies in Jammu. Deliberations were held on creation of additional accommodation facilities in Jammu, with land identified at Purkhoo for expansion.

Reviewing the service-related issues of PM Package employees, the Chief Secretary took stock of matters concerning promotions, preparation of seniority lists and inter-district transfers within the Kashmir Division. Departments presented cadre-wise details of PM Package employees and informed the meeting about the status of Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) and related service matters.

Several other issues concerning the welfare and rehabilitation of displaced persons were also discussed. These included cases under the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS) relating to deceased employees, provision of adequate budgetary support for operation and maintenance of migrant colonies by line departments, and development of an integrated online portal for digitization of records of displaced communities including Kashmiri Pandits, West Pakistan Refugees (WPRs) and families displaced from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The Principal Secretary, DMRR&R, Chandraker Bharti gave the meeting a comprehensive overview of the rehabilitation and resettlement initiatives being undertaken by the Department. He informed that the department has prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for operation and maintenance of migrant colonies across Jammu and Kashmir divisions and that works would be taken up after completion of the requisite formalities.

He further apprised the meeting that the PoJK Bhawan at Suketar has achieved nearly 50 percent physical progress and is targeted for completion by January next year. He also informed that the Community Hall at Jagti has reached around 90 percent completion and is nearing completion.

Relief Commissioner (Migrants), Dr. Arvind Karwani, informed the meeting that out of the sanctioned 6,000 transit flats for PM Package employees, 4,648 flats have been completed while construction of the remaining 1,352 flats is in progress. He further stated that 3,257 flats have so far been allotted to eligible employees, including 532 allotments made since the last review held in March this year.

He also briefed the meeting on the status of allied works and utility services being developed to make all transit accommodation colonies fully ready for occupation and use by PM Package employees.

The Chief Secretary reiterated the Government’s commitment towards ensuring dignified living conditions, timely resolution of service-related concerns and strengthening rehabilitation measures for displaced communities. He called upon all departments to work in close coordination for expeditious completion of pending works and prompt resolution of issues affecting PM Package employees and migrant families across Jammu and Kashmir.

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The approved projects include the construction of a Multipurpose Community Hall at Migrant Camp Muthi, Jammu, which will also accommodate a library and dedicated shops for Self Help Groups (SHGs). The initiative is intended to strengthen community engagement, promote livelihood opportunities, and enhance social support systems within the migrant camp.

In addition, approval has been accorded for the construction of a new office building for the Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants), Jammu. The proposed facility is expected to improve administrative efficiency and further strengthen the delivery of migrant-related welfare schemes and services.

The total technically vetted cost of the sanctioned works stands at ₹7.05 crore, to be executed under the Regular Capex Budget, subject to fulfillment of all codal formalities, financial norms, and prescribed procedures.

The Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring sustained welfare, dignity, and improved living conditions for Kashmiri migrants through focused infrastructure development and institutional strengthening.

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SSP Kishtwar Naresh Singh while sharing the details, stated that today on 07.06.2026 at about 02:30 PM, one complainant namely Gulam Ahmad S/O Ghulam Mohd Magray R/O Pethgam Marwah lodged a written report at Police Station Marwah stating therein that his wife namely Zaina Begum W/O Gulam Ahmad Magray R/O Pethgam Marwah was allegedly beaten to death by the following persons:

1. Ghulam Haider Malik S/o Ghulam  Ahmed Malik

2. Zahoor Ahmad Malik

3. Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik

4. Muzaffar Ahmad Malik

    All sons of Ghulam Haider Malik

5. Shahina Begum W/O Zahoor Ahmad Malik

6. Sara Begum W/O Ghulam Haider Malik

    All residents of Pethgam Marwah.

On the basis of the complaint, a case FIR No. 05/2026 under Sections 103/126(2)/191(2)/351(2)/352 BNS has been registered at Police Station Marwah and investigation was immediately taken up.

SSP Kishtwar further stated that acting swiftly, a special team led by SHO Police Station Marwah along with his team arrested 05 accused persons involved in the case, including two women accused, while one accused namely Muzaffar Ahmad S/O Ghulam Haider Malik fled from the spot and efforts are on to apprehend him at the earliest.

After conducting medico-legal formalities and postmortem examination, the dead body of the deceased was handed over to the legal heirs for last rites.

postmortem examination, the dead body of the deceased was handed over to the legal heirs for last rites.

SSP Kishtwar further stated that investigation into the case is in progress and all angles are being thoroughly examined. He further reiterated that Kishtwar Police remains committed to ensuring justice and strict legal action against all those involved in the crime.

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MLA Jammu East Yudhvir Sethi, Chief Secretary Atal Dullo, Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation Dr. Devansh Yadav, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, SSP Jammu Joginder Singh, Executive Director Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society(MMJHS) Deepika Sharma and concerned officers were present.

The Lieutenant Governor inspected the restoration work initiated for the damaged wall and slab of historic Gadadhar Ji Temple adjacent to the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex. He directed officials to expedite the restoration process while ensuring the quality of works.

Commissioner JMC apprised the Lieutenant Governor on the progress of Construction of ramp based multi-level car parking facility at Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex.

Later, the Lieutenant Governor visited the newly opened Library cum Cafeteria. Executive Director MMJHS apprised on the remaining works of the revival, restoration and renovation of Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Complex.

The projects included Conservation of Darbar Hall, Conservation of Raja Ram Singh Palace, Conservation of Raja Amar Singh Palace, Conservation of Dogra Art Museum and other important works expected to be completed in the coming months. 

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In Ganderbal, police teams during routine patrolling and checking operations intercepted and seized nine vehicles found transporting illegally extracted construction material within the jurisdiction of Police Station Ganderbal. Upon inspection, the vehicles were found carrying mining material without valid authorization, in violation of prescribed norms. The matter was subsequently referred to the concerned Geology and Mining Department, which imposed the requisite penalties under the relevant provisions of law.

Meanwhile, in Shopian, police continued their crackdown on illegal mining activities through coordinated enforcement operations across the district. A special naka established by Police Station Shopian intercepted nine tippers and dumpers traveling from Pulwama towards Shopian carrying mining material without valid royalty documents. The vehicles were seized on the spot, and FIR No. 107/2026 was registered at Police Station Shopian under relevant sections of law. Investigation has been initiated.

In a separate operation, a police team from Police Post Berthipora seized two tractors involved in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals without the required permissions. Consequently, FIR No. 62/2026 was registered at Police Station Keller, and further investigation is underway.

J&K Police has reiterated its firm commitment to safeguarding natural resources and curbing illegal mining activities across valley. Strict legal action will continue against individuals involved in the unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals.

The public has been urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting illegal mining activities. Police have assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.

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The operation launched to track down a group of fleeing Pakistani terrorists entered its 16^th day on Sunday.

Defence officials said that the officer made the supreme sacrifice on Saturday while performing operational duties during the ongoing anti-terror operation in the Rajouri district.

Lieutenant Goswami lost his life after reportedly slipping into a deep gorge in the rugged forest area of Manjakote, where security forces have been conducting a massive anti-terror operation, codenamed ‘Operation Sheruwali’.

The young officer was part of the joint security team engaged in the operation, which has now entered its 16th day. The incident occurred amid extremely challenging conditions, including steep mountainous terrain, dense forests and difficult weather conditions.

Despite immediate rescue efforts launched by fellow troops and accompanying teams, Lieutenant Goswami succumbed to the injuries sustained in the fall.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid a wreath and paid homage to Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami, who made the supreme sacrifice while undertaking Search Operation during Anti terror operation in difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions in Rajouri.

In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said: “Laid a wreath and paid homage to our Army Braveheart Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami. The nation will forever remain indebted to his supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. We stand firmly with the family of the martyr in this difficult hour”.

Lt General Pratik Sharma, Army Commander, Northern Command, expressed heartfelt condolences on the supreme sacrifice of Lieutenant Beereshwar Goswami.

“We salute the Braveheart who laid down his life in the line of duty on 06 June 2026. Northern Command stands firmly with the bereaved family in this hour of grief”, he added.

GOC White Knight Corps and all ranks have also expressed profound grief on the untimely demise of Lieutenant Goswami. “His unwavering devotion to duty, indomitable spirit and selfless service to the Nation will remain an enduring inspiration to all ranks”.

“White Knight Corps stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief and prays for eternal peace to the departed soul”, he added.

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With the objective of ensuring better prices for farmers and orchardists and reducing transportation costs, Jammu Division is providing special rail rakes. For perishable products like cherry, SLR and VP coaches are being used, which ensures safe delivery in less time. Booking, loading and cold chain facilities are being provided by Railways at Jammu and Katra railway stations, so that farmers face no inconvenience.

Regarding this initiative, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said, “Connecting Jammu & Kashmir’s cherry to the national market is a priority for Jammu Division. Transport of more than 111 tons of cherry by rail is proof that farmers are placing their trust in Railways. SLR/VP-based transport is not only saving time but also increasing farmers’ income. Jammu Division will continue to provide special facilities and quick booking arrangements for horticulture produce in the future as well, so that the resolve of ‘Farm to Market’ can be realized.”

Jammu Division appeals to farmers to avail maximum benefit of this Railway facility for transportation of cherry and other perishable agricultural products.

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Organised by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, the two-day festival under the theme “Lavender Goes Global” celebrated the remarkable transformation of Bhaderwah from a traditional agrarian region into India’s leading lavender cultivation and aroma entrepreneurship hub.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Jitendra Singh described Bhaderwah as one of the most successful examples of technology-led rural transformation in the country. He said the Purple Revolution has demonstrated how scientific research can be translated into sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurship in remote mountainous regions.

The Union Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Startup India and science-driven development for the success of the Lavender Mission. He recalled that Prime Minister Modi  had dedicated a significant portion of the 99th episode of Mann Ki Baat to Bhaderwah’s lavender success story.

Highlighting the economic impact of the mission, he noted that several young entrepreneurs associated with lavender cultivation are earning substantial incomes through cultivation, processing and marketing of value-added products. He said Bhaderwah’s model is now being studied and replicated in other Himalayan and northeastern states.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Bhaderwah and the entire Doda region have witnessed remarkable developmental progress over the last twelve years. He highlighted the ongoing work on National Highway-244, stating that improved connectivity is transforming the socio-economic landscape of the region and opening new avenues for growth and opportunities.

Dr. Jitendra Singh attributed the success of the Lavender Mission to the active involvement of scientific institutions, industry experts and capacity-building initiatives. He said that sustained handholding, technology support and global-level conferences helped expand the model to other parts of the country.

Emphasising the vision of Viksit Bharat, he said that while the nation celebrates twelve years of transformative governance, planning is already underway for the next two decades. He stressed the need to unlock the potential of unexplored regions, particularly the Himalayan belt, and said that the Aroma Mission is inherently linked to the Himalayan ecosystem and will continue to play an important role in the region’s sustainable development.

In her address, Director General CSIR Dr. N. Kalaiselvi said the Purple Revolution represents one of the most impactful examples of science reaching grassroots communities. She noted that the initiative has successfully linked laboratory research with rural livelihoods and has emerged as a model for sustainable agricultural development across the country.

Professor V.K. Singh of IIT Lucknow highlighted the role of science and innovation in driving rural transformation and praised the CSIR Aroma Mission for successfully translating research into livelihood opportunities for farmers. He said the Purple Revolution stands as a model of science-led development, fostering entrepreneurship, value addition and sustainable income generation. He also emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between research institutions, industry and farmers to further strengthen India’s aromatic crop sector.

Earlier, welcoming the guests, Director CSIR-IIIM Dr. Zabeer Ahmed highlighted the achievements of the CSIR Aroma Mission and its transformative impact on rural communities across the country. Dr. Ahmed said that lavender cultivation under the Aroma Mission has emerged as one of the most successful examples of science-led rural development in India.

“Over the last three phases of implementation, lavender cultivation has expanded to nearly 1,500 hectares, benefiting more than 4,500 farmers and farming families,” he said. “The initiative has led to the extraction of over 4,000 kilograms of high-value lavender oil and generated cumulative revenues exceeding ₹18 crore, significantly enhancing rural incomes and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities,” he added.

Dr. Jitendra Singh informed that what began as a modest initiative in Jammu & Kashmir has now expanded to several parts of the country, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh and other North-Eastern states, demonstrating the scalability and adaptability of the model.

The venue of the festival witnessed a display of innovation and entrepreneurship with dozens of stalls showcasing lavender oil, perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, incense products, herbal formulations, value-added aroma products, agri-technologies and startup innovations developed under the CSIR Aroma Mission.

The event also featured institutional presentations on the progress of the Purple Revolution, signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), launch of new lavender-based products, and felicitation of progressive farmers and successful startups who have contributed significantly to the growth of the aroma industry in Jammu and Kashmir.

Among those present on the occasion were MLA Bhaderwah Daleep Singh Parihar, MLA Doda West Shakti Raj Parihar, BCCI President Mithun Manhas, Padma Shri Prof. Vinod K. Singh, Institute Chair Professor, Department of Chemistry, IIT Kanpur, Chairman, CSIR-Research Advisory Board (RAB) and Mentor, CSIR-IIIM, Director of CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) Lucknow Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasany, Deputy Commissioner Doda Krishan Lal, senior scientists, officials, and representatives of startups and farmer groups.

Senior scientists Dr Suphla Gupta, Senior Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, CSIR Aroma Mission, and Dr Saurabh Saran, Senior Principal Scientist CSIR-IIIM, were also present during the programme along with scientists, researchers, startup founders and representatives from the aroma industry.

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Addressing a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan PCC Head Quarters Jammu today, JKPCC Working President Raman Bhalla, Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma, EX-MLC I/C HQ Ved Mahajan, Senior Leader  & EX-DCC President Manmohan Singh alongwith local leaders Chander Shekhar, Atul Sharma, Ram Magotra, Virinder Kumar  and Pawan Sharma questioned the silence of BJP-RSS over the most important issue of religious sanctity of Hindus and the heritage of Dogras. Two days after  the incident, BJP is silent and missing and the local MLA was seen defending officials more than listening to the grievances of the locals and residents of the area, who are hurt and suffering for several years due to mismanagement and poor planning and  ruthless execution, said Raman Bhalla.

Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma raised concern over the destruction and removal of historic Chabutra, the symbol of Lok Adalat during Maharaja rule.  How can a declared protected Monument of Dogra identity and culture be dealt with in such a ruthless manner,  without sharing  any road map or details with the stakeholders and in the absence of experts. The deep digging and excavations adjacent to the over 200 years old temple and buildings itself is the proof of recklessness and ill-planed execution.

“They are eying the estate and commercial aspects, only instead of achieving the goal of preservation of Dogra heritage. For years the work is going on in the complex and the people in the surroundings are suffering numerous civic, transport and water problems but no one is listening to them and BJP is not bothered except votes, in the name of religious sentiments and Dogras but when comes question of fixing accountability they turn deaf years and shut their eyes”, Sharma said.

What can be more cruel joke with Dogra heritage and city of temples that is happening with most prestigious heritage in full public view quite in violation of norms. Hence a white paper be issued with full details of spending, funds available, the agencies  and contractors

Involved,  the future roadmap and planning and the condition of the civic amenities and other facilities for localities around. Huge changes and modifications and destructions have been caused.

They declared to take up the issue with LG today evening during a meeting and said that congress shall not allow the Dogra heritage to be destroyed by the vested interests with criminal silence and connivance of BJP.

The party demanded immediate enquiry and restoration work to repair the damage caused besides to ease facilities for the people of the locality.

Meanwhile, the Dogra Sadar Sabha has also expressed concern on the damage caused to the heritage.

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The spectrum of diseases operated include abnormal connection between large arteries arising from the heart(PDA), narrowing of the large artery arising from the heart(coarctation of aorta), hole between the upper chambers of the heart (atrial septal defect ASD), ASD with abnormal drainage of blood from lungs to heart, hole between the lower chambers of the heart(Ventricular Septal Defect VSD), complicated heart defects like Tetralogy of Fallot. The age of the patients were ranging from 1 year to 18 years coming from length and breadth of Jammu and Kashmir.

Many of the patients are brought late because the parents couldn’t afford surgeries for these kids because of financial constraints. But now with advent of Ayushman  Bharat Scheme parents are getting their kids for early surgeries. These kids need meticulous preoperative evaluation as they can have other genetic anomalies, officials said.

The Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery is also performing these operations through small cuts in the right side of the chest.

“The heart tissues of these kids are delicate and need meticulous suturing for repair of defects and the blood volume being less need attention to detail when putting on heart lung machine” said Dr. Shyam Singh, Head of the Department.

“Anaesthetising a child for open-heart surgery is among the most demanding tasks in our specialty — managing a small, physiologically delicate patient through bypass and the critical hours afterward. A smooth recovery reflects close coordination between the anaesthesia, surgical, and perfusion teams.” Said Dr. Puja Vimesh, Head of the Department, Cardiac Thoracic Anaesthesiology.

 The procedures are made possible through the support and active involvement of Dr. Rehana Khurshid Medical Superintendent, Super Speciality Hospital, and the combined efforts of the departments of CVTS, Cardiac Anaesthesia, Perfusion, and Critical Care Nursing.

The 7 year old child hailing Poonch, who presented with breathlessness and recurrent chest infections was diagnosed to have large hole between the high pressure lower chambers which increased flow into the lungs and flooding it causing difficulty to breathe and was in heart failure, underwent  open repair of the hole with a patch On 18th of May 2026 after preoperative stabilization. The surgery was carried out under heart lung machine by the CVTS team, with the child making an uneventful postoperative recovery and discharged, a statement said.

This case demonstrates the dedication to bring advanced congenital cardiac surgical care closer to the families of Jammu and Kashmir. Children with such conditions have traditionally required referral to centres outside the region, often at considerable cost and difficulty to families. The availability of these services at a government facility means eligible patients can now receive this care locally under Ayushman Bharat Scheme.

The child and family have expressed their gratitude to the treating team.

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The controversy erupted after Mehbooba, accompanied by party leaders and local representatives, toured the AIIMS campus in south Kashmir on Friday to assess the pace of work. During the visit, she described the institution as a landmark healthcare project and urged authorities to ensure its timely completion.

Her engagement with the project, however, drew criticism from political opponents who argued that a former chief minister holding no constitutional office has no mandate to conduct reviews of a public institution.

The issue gained further traction when Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo questioned the circumstances surrounding the visit. Without naming anyone directly, she suggested that certain political figures were acting beyond their current roles and hinted at the involvement of influential quarters outside the Union Territory.

“Some people continue to behave as though they are still in power despite being out of office for years,” Itoo said, adding that the elected government is presently headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. She also raised questions about who was authorising such review exercises and whether any political direction was coming from New Delhi.

The debate intensified after Peoples Conference president and MLA Sajad Lone launched a strong attack on the PDP chief. Describing the episode as indicative of a “third power centre” emerging in Jammu and Kashmir, Lone argued that constitutional and administrative norms could not be altered through informal political influence.

He dismissed suggestions that Mehbooba’s interaction with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda could justify her involvement with the project. According to Lone, approval or communication from a Union minister does not change the constitutional framework governing public institutions.

Taking the argument further, Lone questioned whether the same principle would allow non-elected functionaries from other political organisations, including the BJP or RSS, to review government projects despite holding no official position.

The political row deepened on Saturday when Mehbooba revealed that she had spoken with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda regarding the progress of AIIMS Awantipora. In a post on X, she said she had requested the minister to expedite construction work and ensure that the project does not face further delays.

According to Mehbooba, Nadda assured her that efforts were being made to complete the institution on schedule. She stressed the need for the facility to become operational at the earliest, citing mounting pressures on Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare system and the need for advanced medical services in the region.

AIIMS Awantipora, one of the Valley’s most ambitious healthcare infrastructure projects, was approved in 2015 when the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed headed the PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir. Following his death, Mehbooba Mufti took over as chief minister and continued the alliance until 2018, when the BJP withdrew support, leading to the collapse of her government.

With leaders trading accusations over authority, governance and political ownership of the project, AIIMS Awantipora has now become the centre of a wider political confrontation even before the premier healthcare institution opens its doors to the public.

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The Deputy Commissioner conducted an on-the-spot inspection of the affected areas and reviewed the extent of damage caused by the natural calamity. He visited the residences of affected families and interacted with the victims to understand their concerns and assess their immediate requirements. The DC also inspected the damaged Block Development Office building, a local madrassa, school premises, portions of the mosque and the residential houses affected by the incident.

Expressing solidarity with the affected families, the Deputy Commissioner assured them of all possible assistance from the District Administration. He directed the concerned departments to undertake a detailed assessment of damages and submit reports at the earliest to facilitate timely relief and rehabilitation measures. He also instructed officials to ensure the restoration of essential services and maintain close coordination for effective response and support to the affected population.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for preventive measures and preparedness to minimize the impact of such incidents in the future. He directed the concerned agencies to identify vulnerable locations, strengthen disaster management mechanisms and remain vigilant during adverse weather conditions.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to public welfare, he assured that every effort would be made to provide relief and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected residents.

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Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the key features of the new facility.

The centre pools CCTV feeds from across Ganderbal district installed by District Administration, Police and other Security forces, for real-time monitoring at a single centralized location.

The facility is backed by a round-the-clock emergency citizen helpline to provide immediate assistance and crisis mitigation.

In order to ensure a safe and seamless pilgrimage, the Emergency Operations Centre also integrates CCTV Feeds from Baltal Base Camp, approach roads leading upto Baltal Base Camp, Parking Areas in Baltal Base Camp, Sonamarg and Manigam Transit Camp.

It will be instrumental in planning and decision-making during the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra.

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Led by Working President Raman Bhalla, Chief Spokesperson & Ex MLC Ravinder Sharma, Ex MLC Ved Mahajan along with team of local congress leaders visited the site and  met the  local residents who were agitated over the damage caused to the temple due to lack of due care and expertise in carrying out the excavations near the historic temple of great sanctity..

The locals narrated the visiting leaders that a major tragedy was averted last evening as there were large number of devotees in the  premises of temple attending a Bhandara, which was over  just before the collapse of the wall and the  portion took place. God saved the devotees.

The historic Chhatti Gali also suffered huge damage blocking the passage of inhabitants of the area, who expressed great concern and resentment against the authorities and representatives for not taking care of Dogra heritage temple and causing inconvenience to the people of surrounding areas besides hurting their religious sentiments.

Bhalla asked the officers at the site to take care of the religious sentiments and Dogra heritage while expressing concern and resentment over the non technical way of carrying out the excavations near the temple and heritage buildings. He demanded immediate restoration work and restoring the basic facilities of water, passage and sewerage being faced by people besides more professional handling of the heritage temple and other  buildings of Dogra heritage.

Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma demanded an enquiry into the unprofessional manner of carrying out the  operations ,which could have caused major tragedy besides posing great danger to the entire historic temple, in view of fast approaching rainy season. He demanded that  a team experts should oversee the work and restore the protection and preservation of temple on war footing.

A large number of locals also assembled at site to explain their anger against authorities.

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At the outset, the District Census Officer and Additional Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Mehraj-Ud-Din Shah, briefed the chair on the district’s geographical profile, preparedness for Census 2027, and the arrangements put in place for the smooth conduct of the ongoing House Listing Operations. He also highlighted the training programmes being conducted for census personnel across the district and apprised the chair of the district administration’s readiness for the Census exercise.

The Deputy Commissioner informed the meeting that all necessary administrative and logistical arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth conduct of Census-related activities across the district. 

He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders and reiterated the district administration’s commitment to ensuring comprehensive coverage and high-quality data collection during the enumeration process. He also directed all field-level officers to extend full support to census personnel and ensure strict adherence to the prescribed guidelines.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on ensuring comprehensive coverage of all households, including migratory populations, and strengthening field-level census operations across the district.

Addressing the officers, Amit Sharma appreciated the dedicated efforts of the field staff and encouraged enumerators and supervisors to discharge their responsibilities with utmost commitment and professionalism.

He emphasized the importance of effective coordination among census functionaries, quality and timely data collection, and strict adherence to census guidelines to ensure accuracy and completeness of the enumeration process. He directed all concerned officers to extend full support to census personnel and take necessary measures to facilitate the smooth conduct of House Listing and Housing Census activities throughout the district.

Amit Sharma informed that for any query or clarification related to Census 2027 in the district, citizens can contact the dedicated toll-free helpline number 1855. 

He appealed to the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent calls, messages, or individuals claiming to be associated with the Census exercise and cautioned people against sharing personal, financial, banking, or OTP-related information with anyone in the name of Census.

He further clarified that the Census process is simple and transparent, and citizens are only required to answer the prescribed 33 Census questions during the enumeration process. He urged residents to cooperate with authorized Census personnel and provide accurate information to ensure the success of this important national exercise.

The meeting also reviewed field-level preparedness and discussed various operational aspects related to the Census exercise. 

Amit Sharma reiterated that the Census is a crucial national exercise that serves as the foundation for evidence-based planning and development initiatives.

Joint Chief Principal Census Officer, Arun Kumar, also briefed the participants on the monitoring framework for field operations and stressed the importance of real-time tracking and supervision of data collection activities.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (District Census Officer), Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), all SDMs, Charge Officers, Assistant Chief Principal Census Officer, District Coordinator for Census 2027 Budgam, and other concerned officers and officials.

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The exercise brought together the Indian Army, Civil Administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Jammu & Kashmir Police, Health Services, Civil Defence and other stakeholder agencies on a common platform to validate contingency plans, review response mechanisms and strengthen coordination for disaster management and humanitarian assistance.

The exercise was designed to simulate realistic flood and emergency scenarios in vulnerable and low-lying areas along the Tawi River. It commenced with a Joint Table-Top Exercise, wherein participating agencies reviewed disaster management plans, Standard Operating Procedures, resource mobilisation protocols and inter-agency coordination mechanisms. Scenario-based discussions and war-gaming enabled detailed deliberations on effective response during emergencies.

A major highlight of the exercise was the joint flood rescue and evacuation demonstration conducted on the Tawi River. The demonstration showcased coordinated search and rescue operations, casualty evacuation procedures, boat-based rescue missions, rope-assisted river crossing techniques and safe evacuation of affected civilians to designated relief camps. Special emphasis was laid on the rescue and care of vulnerable groups, including women, children and senior citizens.

The exercise also included static displays of specialised disaster relief equipment, logistics support resources, drone-enabled surveillance systems and advanced communication technologies for real-time situational awareness. A Medical and Relief Camp Demonstration featured the establishment of an Advanced Dressing Station, deployment of a Mobile Medical Team, medical evacuation drills and relief camp management procedures.

Senior military officers, representatives of the District Administrations of Rajouri and Poonch, officials from NDRF, SDRF, Jammu & Kashmir Police and various line departments witnessed the exercise. Sarpanches, Village Defence Guards and local residents also participated, highlighting the importance of community involvement in disaster preparedness.

The successful conduct of Exercise HIFAZAT reaffirmed the collective commitment of all participating agencies towards strengthening disaster response capabilities, promoting interoperability and ensuring timely assistance during natural calamities. The initiative reflects the Indian Army’s continued commitment to supporting civil authorities, enhancing disaster resilience and ensuring the safety and well-being of the local population.

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Preparations for the department’s information stall at Government Degree College (GDC) Bhaderwah were reviewed today by Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) Bhaderwah during a meeting with departmental officials and representatives of the Child Helpline.

The meeting focused on showcasing key welfare initiatives, including social security schemes, women empowerment programmes, child protection services and other public welfare measures. Officials discussed plans for displaying informative material and ensuring effective communication with visitors and beneficiaries attending the festival.

Emphasising the importance of community outreach, the TSWO directed officials to complete the installation of the stall well in time and ensure its smooth operation throughout the event. Stressing coordination and professionalism, the officer called upon all stakeholders to actively engage with the public and maximize awareness about the department’s initiatives.

The Lavender Festival, one of Bhaderwah’s major annual attractions, is expected to provide the Social Welfare Department an opportunity to connect directly with a large number of residents, tourists and stakeholders while highlighting various government schemes aimed at social welfare and inclusive development.

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The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, APD, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma; Managing Director, HADP; Directors of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Horticulture and Fisheries from both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, while Deputy Commissioners participated through video conferencing.

Reviewing the performance of different credit-linked schemes, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for giving a major push to agricultural financing, observing that accessible and affordable credit remains the most effective means of unlocking the vast potential of the agriculture and allied sectors in Jammu and Kashmir.

He called upon the district administrations and banking institutions to pursue these schemes with greater ambition and commitment so that eligible farmers, entrepreneurs and producer groups are able to derive maximum benefit from them.

Highlighting the significance of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, Dulloo stressed the need for saturation of KCC coverage, timely renewal of existing accounts and prompt disbursement of repayment incentives to eligible farmers in accordance with the scheme guidelines.

 He directed the concerned departments and banks to undertake extensive awareness campaigns regarding the incentives available under the scheme and the conditions required for availing them, enabling farmers to fully leverage the benefits of this credit scheme.

The Chief Secretary also called for expediting onboarding under the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) in areas where digitization of land records has been completed. He further directed the concerned authorities to ensure that these records remain updated in tandem with the ongoing generation of Farmer IDs across the districts.

Emphasizing the role of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in strengthening rural economies, Dulloo underscored the need for systematic capacity building of FPOs to make them credit-worthy and financially sustainable. He asked the department to designate mentors from among its trainers for handholding and guiding FPOs in enhancing their productivity and institutional capacities in line with banking requirements and credit norms.

The Chief Secretary reviewed district-wise and scheme-wise performance and urged districts to identify areas where progress remained below expectations and undertake focused interventions to improve outcomes and emerge as leading performers.

The meeting also reviewed the performance of Agricultural Term Loans and the activities generating the highest demand among applicants. The Chief Secretary directed banks to provide granular activity-wise data regarding the sectors attracting maximum credit demand and explore the possibility of incorporating such activities under the Mission YUVA framework as well.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional Chief Secretary, APD, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma presented a comprehensive overview of the agricultural credit ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the uptake of various schemes among eligible beneficiaries, discussed the challenges being faced and outlined the roadmap for achieving the desired outcomes.

During the meeting, it was informed that Jammu and Kashmir presently has around 11.57 lakh active KCC account holders, of whom nearly 3.5 lakh farmers availed the prompt repayment incentive during the previous financial year. It was further revealed that 7.99 lakh beneficiaries have been provided smart cards, while 41 per cent coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was achieved during the Kharif season.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of major schemes including the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME), HADP Credit, JKCIP Credit, National Livestock Mission (NLM) and PM-KISAN.

It was informed that under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, loans amounting to ₹680 Cr have been sanctioned, while ₹431 Cr has been disbursed among 392 beneficiaries across Jammu and Kashmir.

Similarly, under PMFME, 545 cases involving disbursement of ₹22 Cr were reported during 2024-25. Under HADP Credit, loans worth ₹302.78 Cr have been sanctioned, of which ₹172.69 Cr have been disbursed up to May 2026.

Regarding the National Livestock Mission, the meeting was apprised that 132 applications had been received, out of which 65 cases are presently under processing by banks, while 27 cases involving financial assistance of ₹12.23 Cr have been approved by the Central Executive Committee (CEC).

The review further revealed that under FPO financing, credit amounting to ₹604 Cr has been sanctioned in favour of 67 FPOs, of which ₹425 Cr has been disbursed among 54 FPOs across the Union Territory.

With regard to the flagship PM-KISAN scheme, the meeting was informed that Jammu and Kashmir currently has around 9.16 lakh active beneficiaries. It was further noted that land seeding has been completed in a substantial number of cases, while NPCI and e-KYC pendencies have been reduced considerably and are being addressed on priority.

The meeting was also informed that the forthcoming “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” would be extensively utilized as a platform to reach every village of the Union Territory and generate awareness among farmers regarding the benefits of various agricultural credit schemes, alongside dissemination of the campaign’s broader objectives aimed at strengthening the agriculture sector.

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Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tulmulla is one of the most revered shrines in Jammu Kashmir. Located approximately 25 km from Srinagar and 5 km from Ganderbal town, the shrine attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, particularly during the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani and Jyeshtha Ashtami, when thousands of pilgrims, including members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, visit the temple. In 2023, several delegations met the Lieutenant Governor to request a Yatri Bhawan. Subsequently, Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj through Rural Engineering Wing (REW) designed the plan and the Lieutenant Governor laid the foundation stone in 2024.

“With Mata Kheer Bhawani’s blessing, I had laid the foundation stone on Jyeshtha Ashtami in 2024. The project will enhance the capacity of the shrine to host pilgrims visiting from India and abroad. My goal has been to provide the Kashmiri Pandit community visiting the shrine with excellent facilities and a serene spiritual experience,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The facility constructed within the temple premises at a cost of Rs.3.85 Crore comprises a G+II RCC framed structure with a plinth area of 3,885 sq. ft. and is designed to accommodate approximately 800–900 pilgrims through floor bedding arrangements.

Earlier, the Lieutenant Governor paid obeisance at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple and prayed for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all.

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“Having now visited every district in Kashmir Valley & stood with each march, I can say that a historic movement against narco-terrorism has risen,” the Lieutenant Governor said in his address to the people on the occasion.

He said in the past 55 days, 1,036 FIRs have been registered, 1,128 drug smugglers have been arrested, more than 100 properties of smugglers have been attached, nearly 700 driving licenses have been cancelled, and recommendations have been made to cancel passports of 130 drug smugglers.

“Fifty-five days ago, from the soil of Jammu, I declared that enough is enough. What began as a war against drugs and narco-terrorism has now ignited into a true people’s movement, a movement born of courage, sustained by spirit, and driven by the collective will of ordinary citizens. Today, that resolve stands stronger than ever,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor assured proper rehabilitation of those who have fallen into drug addiction.

“With compassion and dignity, we will help them return to the mainstream of society. Through treatment, counselling, and new employment opportunities, we are opening new doors. People must remember that this is not simply a government programme, but it is a social revolution. Together, we will ensure that no drug smugglers or peddlers ever find a place in Jammu Kashmir.

Fifty-five days ago, I stood on Jammu’s soil and declared that we would free our children from the poison of drugs, protect our families from being torn apart by drug addiction, and refuse to let our people become hostages to narco-terrorists who profit from suffering and funding terrorism with their black money. We have launched a war against narco-terrorists, who seek to destroy the future of our youth,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that in every march across Jammu Kashmir, he spoke about how drugs are destroying the future of people, robbing them of their ability, their dreams, and their dignity and how the proceeds from drug smuggling is used in buying weapons, and spreading terrorism in Jammu Kashmir.

“This is not simply a matter of ordinary crime but it is also a question of national security and a direct threat to the very survival of our society. The narco-terrorists, whether sitting in neighbouring countries or operating inside Jammu Kashmir, are enemies of our people. They are enemies of our children. They are enemies of our progress. Let me make this clear that narco-terrorists operating in Jammu Kashmir will have to pay a heavy price,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor further observed that the administration will ensure that those who have harmed our youth face justice so severe that the world will remember their punishment.

The Lieutenant Governor called upon mothers, sisters, and daughters to rise as protectors of our villages, cities and neighbourhoods. He also called upon youth of Jammu Kashmir to stand as guardians of their schools and colleges.

“I promise to the people that narco-terrorists will no longer find refuge. We will hunt them down. Narco-Terrorists days are numbered. Their networks will be dismantled, one by one. This is my oath, my solemn promise that every narco-terrorist will answer for their crimes and their sins,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor launched Sindh Samvad, a podcast series and also felicitated the winners of various competitions organised under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan.

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“While many nations today struggle with challenge of coexistence, diversity has been our natural rhythm of life. While many societies have devised measures to safeguard unity, India embraced ethos and value of coexistence and practiced seamlessly for thousands of years,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that respecting all ideas and beliefs has always been tradition of Sanatan Dharma. He said that India has consistently emphasized unity in diversity and shown respect to every faith that emerged thousands of years after Sanatan Dharma. The Lieutenant Governor said that the Rigveda also teaches that hearts and minds should be aligned, our aim should be the same, our feelings in harmony, and our thoughts united.

“Scholars and researchers worldwide agree that the spirit of equal regard for all religions finds its philosophical roots in the ancient traditions of our great country. When I reflect on the ideals and philosophies India has gifted humanity, it becomes evident that through both thought and deed, our Vedas, Upanishads, saints and seers have illuminated a path toward lasting world peace,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that every thread of society must be woven together, advancing with a shared commitment to the welfare of humanity.

“That is precisely what humanity needs most today. The ethos of equal respect for all religions is India’s most precious gift to the world. We must continuously nurture it so we can move forward together in unity and bring prosperity to every community,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Highlighting Jammu Kashmir’s exceptional performance during the three phases of the Vande Mataram initiative, the Lieutenant Governor described the achievement as extraordinary and a testament to the people’s enduring patriotic spirit.

The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the overwhelming public support for the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan. He said that participation from all sections of society has been organic and inspiring. He called upon citizens, institutions and community leaders to embrace the campaign as a people’s movement and work together towards building a drug-free and healthier society.

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Under Mission YUVA, ₹209 crore has been disbursed in 3,367 cases during April and May, reaffirming Government’s focus on youth entrepreneurship and employment generation.

During the event, it was informed that out of a total of 5,016 sanctioned cases amounting to ₹269 crore, ₹209 crore covering 3,367 cases have been disbursed between April 1 and May 31.

The programme was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani.

Senior officers present on the occasion included Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, ACS APD Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, ACS Finance Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Planning, Development and Monitoring Alice Vaz, Secretary Labour & Employment Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, Mission Director Mission YUVA, Director IIM Jammu, representatives of J&K Bank, and other concerned officers.

The Chief Minister congratulated the beneficiaries and expressed hope that the financial assistance would enable them to establish and expand sustainable business ventures, thereby generating employment and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

Speaking on the broader vision of Mission YUVA, the Chief Minister said the initiative represents a transformative step towards building a robust ecosystem for youth entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the government is committed to ensuring that young people are not job seekers alone, but job creators who drive innovation and economic progress.

He emphasized that Mission YUVA is designed to provide structured handholding, access to credit, skill development, and mentorship support to aspiring entrepreneurs. The Chief Minister said the programme is intended to bridge the gap between ideas and execution by simplifying access to institutional finance and improving coordination between banks, government departments, and training institutions.

He further added that sustained focus on youth empowerment through Mission YUVA would help unlock the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s young population, particularly in sectors such as services, agriculture-based enterprises, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing.

The Chief Minister reiterated that inclusive economic growth remains a top priority of the government, and initiatives like Mission YUVA are central to achieving long-term self-reliance and employment generation in Jammu and Kashmir.

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During the day, MLAs Dr Rameshwar Singh (Bani) and Sajad Shaheen (Banihal) called on the Chief Minister and raised various constituency-related developmental and public welfare issues. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the issues projected by the legislators and assured their appropriate consideration and follow-up action.

Chairman & Managing Director, HUDCO, New Delhi, Sanjay Kulshrestha also called on the Chief Minister. During the meeting, they discussed a wide range of housing and urban infrastructure projects, including the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), water supply, sewerage, drainage, road connectivity and power infrastructure, among other matters.

Later, Lieutenant General Harpal Singh, Director General, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), called on the Chief Minister and apprised him of various ongoing Beacon projects and infrastructure works being executed across Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister reviewed the progress of ongoing infrastructure initiatives and reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening development delivery and addressing public issues across all regions of Jammu and Kashmir.

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The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; Commissioner Secretary, Science & Technology Department; Managing Director, JPDCL/KPDCL, besides representatives of several other concerned departments.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for sustained and result-oriented follow-up by the Science & Technology Department on the issues deliberated upon, observing that a clear roadmap for addressing the challenges had emerged through collective consultations with all stakeholders.

He underscored that the department should fully leverage the support being extended by the Finance Department and other agencies to achieve the solarization targets within defined timelines.

Emphasizing the immense potential of renewable energy in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Secretary advised the department to undertake a comprehensive review of the land parcels identified on the PM Gati Shakti Portal and assess their suitability for establishment of mega solar parks under Government of India-supported programmes.

 He called for a focused and mission-mode approach, directing the department to set measurable targets for the next six months, one year and two years, and ensure visible progress on the ground at each stage.

The meeting held detailed deliberations on a range of issues critical to the successful implementation of solar projects, including land acquisition and transfer, obtaining statutory clearances from various departments, execution of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with distribution companies for evacuation of power generated from solarized buildings, and measures required to maintain grid stability for optimal utilization of solar energy assets.

Discussions also centred on the installation of Virtual Net Metering systems in Government buildings, adoption of a Unified Billing System for departments in place of separate billing for individual buildings, and provision of fresh power connections wherever required to facilitate seamless implementation of solar projects.

The stakeholders further deliberated upon the need for rationalization and levelisation of rates for projects being implemented under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model to ensure greater efficiency of solar energy solutions across departments.

The meeting also reviewed the long-term roadmap for development of mega-scale solar power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. Detailed discussions were held on issues relating to land transfer, execution of PPAs and feeder segregation, which are considered essential for efficient integration and utilization of future solar power assets in the Union Territory.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment towards clean and sustainable energy, the Chief Secretary called upon these departments to work in close coordination and expedite action on the decisions taken during the meeting so that Jammu and Kashmir catches up with other leading renewable energy developing regions of the country.

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The prestigious international event will be organised by the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).

The festival is envisioned as a major platform to showcase cinematic excellence, promote cultural exchange and highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s immense potential as a preferred destination for film production and tourism.

The International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir will bring together filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, industry experts, critics and cinema enthusiasts from across India and abroad. The event is expected to feature screenings of acclaimed national and international films, panel discussions, master classes, interactive sessions, cultural programmes and networking opportunities for stakeholders from the film and entertainment sector.

The festival is also expected to provide significant exposure to local talent, encourage emerging filmmakers, and create avenues for collaboration between the regional film fraternity and the global cinema industry. Through this initiative, the Government aims to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s growing reputation as a hub for filmmaking and creative expression

The maiden edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir is expected to mark a significant milestone in the Union Territory’s cultural calendar and contribute substantially to the promotion of tourism, creative industries, youth engagement and economic activity associated with the film sector.

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During the inspection, the SDM assessed damage caused to residential houses and public infrastructure, including assets belonging to the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department and the Power Development Department (PDD). 

The highway, which was temporarily disrupted due to the incident, was restored for single-lane traffic yesterday itself. Efforts are presently underway on a war footing to achieve full restoration and facilitate smooth two-way movement at the earliest.

The SDM emphasised the need for seamless inter-departmental coordination and directed field functionaries to maintain a continuous presence in the affected localities to oversee relief measures reach every affected household without delay.

To provide immediate succour to affected families, the Revenue Department has initiated the distribution of essential relief material, including mattresses and blankets. Additional assistance, wherever warranted, shall also be extended in accordance with established norms and procedures.

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The action was taken on the basis of a dossier submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kishtwar – which revealed the accused person’s alleged repeated involvement in organized illegal transportation and smuggling of bovine animals across District Doda, District Kishtwar and adjoining areas.

Despite previous criminal involvement, the subject continued to indulge in similar activities, demonstrating a habitual tendency and complete disregard for the law.

The District Magistrate observed that such activities possess serious communal ramifications and have the potential to disturb public tranquillity, communal harmony and the even tempo of life.

It was further found that ordinary criminal law had failed to deter the subject from pursuing his unlawful activities.

Satisfied that the subject’s activities were highly prejudicial to the maintenance of public order, the District Magistrate invoked the provisions of the Public Safety Act and ordered his detention.

The detenue has been lodged in District Jail, Kishtwar.

The district administration Kishtwar reiterated its Zero Tolerance Policy against bovine smugglers, anti-social elements and all persons involved in activities prejudicial to public order and warned that stringent action shall continue against such offenders.

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Consequently, helicopter services for pilgrim travel shall not be available in the Yatra area during Shri Amarnathji Yatra (SANJY) 2026.

All pilgrims planning to visit the Holy Shrine during this Yatra are advised to take note of the same. Pilgrims may reach the Holy Cave Shrine on foot or avail the services of ponies/ palkis throughout the Yatra. Thank you for your cooperation.

The yatra will begin on 3 July and conclude on 28 August.

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