As per Clause 3.3.0 of the UGC Regulations on Minimum Qualification for Appointment of Teachers and other Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges minimum qualification for appointment as an Assistant Professor is Master’s Degree with 55 per cent marks in the relevant/ allied subject. The candidate must have cleared the National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Level Eligibility Test (SLET) or

State Eligibility Test (SET). However, the candidates who have been awarded a PhD shall be exempted from qualification NET/SLET/SET.

The report mentions about instances for the period ended March 2022.

“The qualification and selection procedure for appointment of teachers on contract basis should be same as those applicable to a regularly appointed teacher. The appointments are to be made on the recommendations of a duly constituted Selection Committee consisting of Chairperson of the Governing Body of the Institute, two subject experts, Principal of the College, Head of Department of the subject concerned and two nominees of the Vice-Chancellor of the affiliating University” the CAG report stated.

It said that Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and Nursing Council of India (NCI) stipulate a qualification of M. Pharma/ Pharma D and PhD/ M. Sc Nursing for being appointed as Pharmacy and Nursing teachers respectively. For appointment of teachers in colleges of education running B. Ed courses, NCTE prescribes a qualification of M.A (Social Science) and M. Ed or M.A (Education) and B.Ed.

Data collected from 51 physically verified colleges (Government: 17 and Non-Government: 34), showed that 113 teachers out of 331 teachers appointed in 24 Non- Government colleges did not possess the prescribed qualifications for appointment as such academic standards had been compromised by these colleges. Further, in 32 Non-Government colleges, 168 teachers were appointed on adhoc basis without the approval of the Selection Committee.

Further, as per provisions of 11.1 of Statutes of governing affiliation, each affiliated college requires to send a statement showing full particulars of the members of teaching staff available in various courses to the College Development Council (CDC) by 1st of August every year. However, none of the 51 physically verified colleges had submitted the said statement, indicating any change in the management and teaching staff and qualification of new staff. As of April 2023, the University had not taken any action against affiliated colleges for non-submission of the required report.  

Registrar stated (February 2025) that University withheld the admission of two defaulting Non-Government colleges of education for session 2022-23 and has also initiated process to withhold admission of 2-3 more colleges which are deviating from the Statutes for the session 2023-24.

The new rates of the liquor have come into force and the buyers will get these alcohols at the below given price.

The price of Old Monk rum, Six Fields and Godfather beer, Seagram’s whisky and many others has been released for 2026.

CPCO/DCO/DCR J&K and Ladakh Amit Sharma, during his special address, to the community members and media shared special and unique features of upcoming Census 2027 in both the UTs of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh wherein he invited all the public to participate with total zeal and enthusiasm, being one the biggest event of Indian democracy which is going to happen after a gap of more than 15 years after 2011.

CPCO/DCO/DCR Amit Sharma also shared with the gathering that Government of India shall be conducting upcoming Census as the first-ever Paperless Census with digital means since its inception in India, which shall be backed by innovation & technology and it shall have a far reaching impact upon the Indian economy, demography, politics and even the exports and imports happening in the nation.

CPCO/DCO/DCR Government of India, MHA for J&K and Ladakh Amit Sharma gave a patient hearing to various speakers of Gaddi community who expressed varied concerns, primarily mentioning about under-enumeration of Gaddi-Sippi community and reflection of lower population data figures in all the previous versions of Censuses, which resulted in provisioning of lesser benefits to them in various Government schemes and policies in comparison to other ST communities.

While noting all their concerns, CPCO/DCO/DCR Amit Sharma assured the huge gathering of the Gaddi community present in the Annual Sabha that upcoming Census 2027 shall be conducted into a completely digital format which shall be foolproof and temperproof to ensure provisioning of exact data sets and this time, a special facility of self-enumeration shall be extended to the citizens of the UT in which they can fill their accurate population data in the portal “se.census.gov.in” themselves, both in the phases of Houselisting and Housing Operations (HLO) and second phase of Population Enumeration (PE) of Census 2027, which shall be counter-checked by visiting Enumerators during the house-to-house visits later, before final submission.

CPCO/DCO/DCR Amit Sharma also shared other special features about upcoming Census 2027 including Houselisting & Housing Operations (HLO) to be held in first phase for one month in June this year, followed by Population Enumeration (PE) in second phase in September 2026 in snow-bound areas of UT and February 2027 in plain areas of Jammu & Kashmir, with a request to all members of Gaddi community to share correct data with the enumerators and supervisors during visit to their respective homes.

During the programme, DCO/DCR Amit Sharma also honoured top achievers of the Gaddi/Sippi community including popular singing sensation of J&K Bishen Dass who belongs to Latti area of Udhampur, top-performing doctors, sportspersons, students who have created name and fame of Gaddi community in the recent past. The organisers expressed deep gratitude towards Amit Sharma for sparing time out of his busy schedule to enlighten and encourage Gaddi community towards this all-important national duty for contributing towards future progress and development through active participation in upcoming Census 2027.

A definitive military biography, “The Snow Lion: A Military Biography of General Zorawar Singh”, authored by Lieutenant General Ghanshyam Singh Katoch (Retired) and a book “Lead like a Legend”, written by Brigadier Jeewan Singh Rajpurohit, PhD (Retired), was unveiled. The event served as a stirring odyssey into the annals of Indian martial glory, gathering a distinguished assembly of scholars, decorated veterans, and high-ranking military leadership to honour the General, whose tactical acumen has made him a military legend.

The books are more than mere historical records, but insightful explorations into General Zorawar Singh’s high-altitude conquests. The books bring forth his strategic brilliance as a visionary administrator, master logistician and tactical genius. As a tribute to a great Indian military hero, the biography in particular, highlights the General’s foundational imprint on the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment.

In his keynote address, Lieutenant General MP Singh, Colonel of the JAMMU & KASHMIR RIFLES and LADAKH SCOUTS, bridged the centuries, illustrating how General Zorawar’s ancient brilliance remains the bedrock of contemporary mountain warfare doctrine.

A Fire Side Chat on General Zorawar Singh’s ‘Legacy of Strategic Brilliance’ was moderated by Lieutenant General Ghanshyam Katoch (Retired), with eminent panelists including, Mr Shiv Kunal Verma, Author, Mr Iqbal Chand Malhotra, Author & Documentary Filmmaker and Colonel Ajay Raina (Retired). The Fire Side Chat delved into the various aspects of General Zorawar Singh’s logistical acumen, administrative skill and operational art along with his contributions as the architect of the nation’s northern frontiers. The presence of veterans and serving officers, the living torchbearers of the General’s spirit, ensured that the echoes of his valour continue to inspire modern high-altitude warfare.

Beyond the literary unveiling, the event acted as a vital intellectual sanctuary. By analysing General Zorawar Singh’s mastery of the “Principles of War,” the gathering underscored a sacred institutional duty, the preservation of Indian military history for the strategic leaders of tomorrow and the perpetuity of General Zorawar Singh in the nation’s military consciousness.

Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled that this historic association not only gave an early impetus to the Jana Sangh but also firmly linked the identity of the party with Jammu & Kashmir for generations to come.

Stating that BJP workers in Jammu & Kashmir are direct inheritors of this legacy, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, this legacy is both a privilege and a challenge for them, a privilege because they represent the foundational ideals of the party, and a challenge because they are expected to uphold and exemplify that legacy in their conduct, commitment, and public life. He said that across the country, BJP’s political discourse and election campaigns frequently draw reference to Jammu & Kashmir, making the conduct and credibility of workers from the region a matter of national relevance.

Dr. Jitendra Singh was addressing a meeting of BJP office bearers and senior functionaries in Jammu, convened in view of organisational discussions that are usually held alongside executive committee meetings. In the absence of a scheduled executive meeting, the meeting was organised to review activities undertaken in the intervening period and to plan organisational programmes ahead. The meeting was attended by J&K BJP President Sat Paul Sharma, senior leader and MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, Rajya Sabha MP Ghulam Ali Khatana, Organisation General Secretary Ashok Koul, and other senior office bearers and party workers.

At the outset, condolences were expressed on the demise of senior personalities, including veteran singer Asha Bhosle, as informed during the proceedings, and BJP MLA from Kathua Bharat Bhushan, who passed away earlier in the day.

Referring to organisational growth, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the BJP’s journey from its Jana Sangh origins to becoming the world’s largest political organisation reflects decades of ideological commitment and grassroots perseverance. He congratulated Sat Sharma on being elected for a second consecutive term as J&K BJP President, describing it as a rare development in the party’s organisational framework.

Calling for greater inclusivity within the organisation, Dr. Singh said that there is ample scope for accommodating new members and encouraging young leadership. He emphasised that growth of individuals within the party should be seen as a strength rather than a concern, adding that opportunities within the organisation are vast and expanding.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also referred to the evolving communication landscape, noting that real-time information flow and social media have significantly changed political engagement. He stressed the need for discipline in public communication and advised party functionaries to focus on issue-based responses, backed by facts, while also understanding when restraint is necessary.

On governance and development, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing rapid progress through sustained central support. He referred to long-pending projects such as the Ujh Multipurpose Project, which had remained unresolved for nearly a century, and the Shahpur Kandi Project, both of which are now moving forward. He said such initiatives reflect both developmental commitment and corrective action on delays of the past.

The Minister also mentioned new initiatives including a cannabis-based research project in Jammu under a public-private partnership with international collaboration, as well as India’s advancement in nuclear energy, including entry into the fast breeder reactor stage, placing the country among a select group of nations with such capability.

Dr. Jitendra Singh urged party workers to actively communicate these developmental achievements to the public and strengthen outreach at the grassroots level. He also called for constructive engagement with the administrative machinery to ensure effective implementation of schemes.

Dr Jitendra Singh urged party functionaries to work with a sense of responsibility and coordination, strengthening both organisational effectiveness and developmental delivery in Jammu & Kashmir.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha informed that the advance registration for the Yatra will begin on 15 April 2026 via both offline and online modes. This facility will be available at 554 branches of J&K Bank, PNB, SBI, and Yes Bank across the country.  

He said the initiative will include the installation of state-of-the-art radiotherapy equipment to provide advanced radiation treatment to cancer patients locally. He said this would reduce the need for patients to travel to distant metropolitan centres. 

The Minister was speaking after presiding over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony at GMC, Kathua between the two institutions, marking a significant step towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure and research capabilities in the region.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the Government’s commitment to improving access to advanced healthcare services in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that capacity building will be a key component of the partnership, with surgeons and medical professionals from GMC, Kathua receiving specialized training in cancer surgery and oncology care from experts at Tata Memorial Centre. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the initiative will not only improve patient care but also contribute to early diagnosis and timely treatment of cancer cases in the region.

In another important development, an MoU was signed between GMC, Kathua and CSIR Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM). The Minister noted that CSIR-IIIM, Jammu is engaged in advanced research in areas such as drug resistance in tuberculosis and development of interventions for boosting immunity.He stated that the collaboration will pave the way for joint research projects addressing critical public challenges. The partnership will also foster academic cooperation between the two institutions, including joint MD thesis.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Rangreth JAKLI Tapline will be observed due to which power supply to JAKLI and Beacon will be affected from 10 AM to 02 PM on 15 April 2025.

Most of the main roads and intersections were affected due to the traffic jams with few traffic police personnel trying to manage the rush.

Photo for representation only.

Despite the formation of the Union Territory of Ladakh in 2019, after being carved out of Jammu & Kashmir, the Aadhar records of the people of Ladakh continued to reflect the erstwhile State name – J&K, instead of Ladakh – causing widespread concerns and hassles. The Lieutenant Governor, taking a serious note of prolonged pendency in this important matter, directed the UT Administration to resolve the issue at the earliest.

Subsequently, the Administration took up the matter with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), at higher levels. This long-awaited correction has now been successfully implemented, ensuring that Ladakh’s distinct regional identity is accurately represented in Aadhar.

The continued reflection of “Jammu & Kashmir” in Aadhaar records of Ladakh residents had been causing considerable inconvenience to the people. Residents were facing difficulty in using Aadhar as a valid document for identity and address, while availing various services, as the “State” field in Aadhar, did not correspond to the post-reorganisation status of Ladakh. The issue not only created hardship for citizens but also affected the proper representation of the Union Territory in Aadhar-linked records and progress reports.

The Lieutenant Governor said that the development would greatly benefit the residents of Ladakh by removing procedural hurdles and enabling seamless access to services. “Ensuring that the identity of Ladakh is accurately reflected in official records, is not only an administrative necessity, but also a matter of the identity and convenience for our people. The successful resolution of this long-pending issue, reflects the UT Administration’s commitment to responsive governance, ease of living, and ensuring that the unique identity of Ladakh is properly represented across all official platforms,” Shri Saxena said. 

To resolve the issue, the UT Administration, in coordination with UIDAI, devised an innovative mechanism to update the State field centrally. Instead of requiring each resident to individually visit Aadhar centres for correction, the updation of records was carried out on the basis of PIN codes specific to Ladakh. These PIN codes were verified in coordination with the Department of Posts and shared with UIDAI.

This development has brought significant relief to the people of Ladakh, as they no longer need to visit Aadhar centres individually for updating their records. Residents can now easily download their updated e-Aadhaar from the official UIDAI portal, and those wishing to obtain a PVC Aadhaar card may order it online by paying a nominal fee.

In Anantnag, acting on a specific input, a raid was conducted at the residential house of Fayaz Ahmad Dar son of Mohd Jabbar Dar resident of Naina Gund Baba Khalil, Sangam after obtaining a search warrant from the Court. During the search, 3 kg 99 grams of charas powder-like substance was recovered. The accused Fayaz Ahmad Dar and his son Arbaz Ahmad Dar were arrested on the spot. In another operation, a police party from PP Sangam during naka checking at Naibasti Marhama intercepted a Hyundai i20 (JK13J-0803). Two individuals, Shahzada Suvaid son of Manzoor Ahmad Shah and Waris-ul-Islam son of Nazir Ahmad Shah, both residents of Batagund Tral, were found in possession of 488 grams of charas-like substance. Further, Police party from Police Station Anantnag during naka checking at Anantnag bypass near the overhead Danter bridge, intercepted Sajad Ahmad Shah son of Gh Rasool Shah resident of Hakhoora Badazgaam. During search, charas-like substance in the form of 07 sticks weighing 106 grams and powder weighing 88 grams was recovered, Police stated.

In Kulgam, during naka checking at Furrah New Bypass, a police party from Police Post Mir Bazar apprehended a suspicious person identified as Danish Khurshid son of Khurshid Ahmad Nath resident of Redwani, Qoimoh Kulgam.

During search, 110 grams of charas powder-like substance, 2 grams of heroin-like substance, and cash amounting to ₹22,000 were recovered. In another action, a police party from Police Post Mir Bazar during naka checking at Akhran apprehended a suspicious individual identified as Faruk Ali son of Sukur Ali resident of Jiggi No. 256, Block C, JJ Colony Bawana, North-West Delhi. During search, 63.31 grams of charas powder-like substance and 2.03 grams of heroin-like substance were recovered from his possession.

In a separate case, acting on credible prior information, a police party from Police Station Qazigund at Kurigam Railway Bridge, arrested a drug peddler identified as identified as Abdul Qayoom Shah son of Mohd Subhan Shah resident of Shastargam, Dooru Anantnag. During search, 109 grams of charas concealed in corn husk was recovered. Accordingly, FIR No. 71/2026 was registered at P/S Qazigund. During further investigation, backward linkages were established.

After obtaining the necessary warrant, police conducted searches in Sirhama, Anantnag, leading to the identification and involvement of Mohd Iqbal Rather son of Sanullah Rather resident of Sirhama Camp Colony, Anantnag and Mukhtar Ahmad Wagay son of Mohd Sultan Wagay resident of Wopzan, Hearpora, Anantnag. During search, 1.212 Kgs of charas was recovered, thereby exposing the supply chain involved in the narcotics network, Police said.

In Pulwama, a police party of Police Post Rahmoo, apprehended a suspicious individual identified as Ab Hameed Thoker son of Gh Ahmad Thoker resident of Thokerpora, who was carrying a nylon bag. During search, 6 kgs of semi crushed cannabis powder was recovered.

In Awantipora, a police team at a checkpoint established at Padgampora near Railway Station Awantipora, arrested two drug peddlers identified as Faizan Yousuf Ganie son of Mohd Yousuf Ganie, resident of Koil, Pulwama and Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi son of Bashir Ahmad Sofi, resident of Washbugh, Pulwama. During search, approximately 29 grams of a heroin-like substance was recovered from their possession.

Meanwhile in Sopore, a police team during patrolling at Brath Crossing, a suspicious individual was intercepted and apprehended. During search, Codeine Phosphate bottles and heroin-like substance were recovered from his possession. He has been identified as Shabir Ahmad Mir @ Jana son of Mohammad Sumadar Mir resident of Arampora Sopore, Police said.

Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and investigations are underway to ascertain the source and wider linkages involved.

In a separate action, an extensive joint drive was conducted by Police Station Qaimoh in coordination with the Drug Department to check the sale of drugs, with particular focus on Schedule H medicines, by medical shops in the Qaimoh area. During the inspection, several medical shops were found violating prescribed norms, especially regarding maintenance of mandatory records and regulatory compliance. Accordingly, multiple establishments have been recommended for suspension of their licenses. Additionally, RH Medical Store was sealed on the spot for violating mandatory requirements for sale of Schedule H medicines, including failure to maintain proper records as per norms, Police stated.

Baramulla Police said it has thwarted a major land fraud attempt at Wussan Kunzer by apprehending a group of fraudsters posing as land brokers and government officials in order to deceive an unsuspecting buyer. The accused had fabricated a false ownership claim over a piece of land and presented one of their associates as the legitimate owner. To lend credibility to their scheme, one member impersonated a Patwari while others posed as revenue officials. However, timely verification by Police exposed the entire operation as a pre-planned conspiracy aimed at cheating the complainant.

The complainant, Abdul Ahad Malik son of Gh Nabi Malik resident of Panzi Nara Shalteng, had already been duped of a substantial amount before Police intervention. Acting swiftly, Police apprehended the accused identified as Gh Mohammad Wani son of Md Ramzan Wani resident of Palpora Pulwama (impersonating as Patwari), Masood Ahmad Wani son of Md Shafi resident of Pir Bagh Sector B (posing as son of property owner – Khursheed Alam), Md Yousuf Wani son of Ab Ahad resident of Pandithpora Kunzer (broker), Md Abdullah Mir son of Ab Gaffar resident of Shilwat Sonawari (broker), Bilal Parray son of Ab Rashid resident of Markundal (broker), Fayaz Ahmad Khanday son of Gh Nabi resident of Takkanwari Srinagar (broker) and Riyaz Ahmad Mir son of Gh Nabi resident of Sheikhzoo Ganderbal (broker).

Preliminary enquiry revealed that the complainant had already paid ₹4,00,000 in cash and ₹10,000 via bank transfer, and was being further persuaded to arrange ₹20,00,000. The accused were intercepted at a crucial stage, preventing further financial loss, Police said.

During the operation, Police recovered and seized forged revenue documents pertaining to the land measuring 13.5 kanals at Wussan Bangil under Khasra Nos. 271, 272, 273, and 274.

Regarding the incident, FIR No. 42/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Kunzer. Investigation is ongoing to trace additional accomplices and uncover the full extent of the fraud network.

J&K Police urge the public to remain vigilant and verify all land-related documents and identities through proper government channels before entering into any property transactions

The initiative focuses on harvesting snow and conserving snowmelt to strengthen water security across Ladakh, where water availability remains a critical concern due to unique climatic and geographical conditions.

Saxena launched the project with the beginning of excavation works for the creation of 50 water bodies, simultaneously in Leh and Kargil. These water bodies, measuring 40×30 meters and 2 meters deep, are designed to store the snowmelt / glacial-melt that otherwise goes to waste every year. This will provide the people of Ladakh a reliable source of water for irrigation.

Describing the initiative as historic, the Lieutenant Governor stated that Project Him Sarovar marks a decisive and scientific intervention to tackle the growing issue of water availability in Ladakh, where water is not merely a resource but a lifeline for the people.

Notably, soon after assuming office as Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh on March 13, Shri Saxena had directed the Chief Secretary to identify locations and prepare an action plan for the construction of 50 small water bodies across the Union Territory.

Highlighting the importance of the project, the Lieutenant Governor said that it is directly linked to Ladakh’s water security and will play a crucial role in addressing irrigation challenges faced by farmers who depend on limited water sources. He emphasised that these water bodies will help conserve both rainwater and the annual snowmelt, which otherwise goes to waste, thereby creating a reliable source of water for agricultural purposes.

He stated that Project Him Sarovar will not only fulfil irrigation needs but also generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. The project is being designed using scientific methods, taking into account Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and climatic conditions.

The Lieutenant Governor said Project Him Sarovar would serve a larger goal of reversing the degradation of land, which is aligned with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of restoring 2.6 crore hectares of degraded land by 2030.

The Lieutenant Governor further stated that the initiative has received strong support from various stakeholders, including the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and the local population. He also lauded the people of Ladakh for their encouraging support of Project Him Sarovar.

Saxena informed that Project Him Sarovar has been conceptualised keeping in mind Ladakh’s unique geographical and climatic conditions. He also highlighted that these water bodies will be developed in consultation with local communities to ensure that they meet specific regional requirements. In addition to water conservation, the project will also support plantation efforts along roadsides and enhance green cover.

Addressing the broader environmental context, the Lieutenant Governor pointed out the visible impacts of climate change in Ladakh, including declining snowfall, melting glaciers, rising temperatures, and falling water tables. He stressed the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to mitigate these challenges.

The Lieutenant Governor also underscored the importance of preserving traditional irrigation systems while simultaneously developing modern water-harvesting and conservation mechanisms. He called for collective efforts to enhance Ladakh’s natural landscape by creating new “green and blue assets” that will contribute to long-term ecological balance.

The Chief Secretary made these remarks while speaking at the Census 2027 Summit held today at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.

The summit was participated by the senior administrators, development partners and policy experts to deliberate upon the roadmap, preparedness and significance of Census of India 2027, the country’s first-ever fully digital and paperless census exercise.

The Summit was also attended by Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer and Director Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh; Andrea M. Wojnar, Resident Representative, UNFPA India; Praful Kumar Sigtia, Deputy Director General (Information Security), UIDAI and Rohit Kumar, Co-Chair (Policy Making) G20, as special dignitaries.

Delivering keynote address as the chief guest, the Chief Secretary observed that India is entering a new era of governance driven by technology and real-time insights. Contrasting the upcoming exercise with the manual, time-consuming 2011 census, he emphasised the paradigm shift towards a technology-first, citizen-centric framework utilising mobile-based enumeration, artificial intelligence and cloud technology to ensure accuracy, transparency and speed.

Speaking on the rapid global advancements in technology, the Chief Secretary stressed that data is going to be the key driver, oil and fuel of any nation’s economy in the AI-driven future. He noted that India’s vast demographic diversity provides a far richer dataset compared to Western nations, giving the country a strategic advantage in training AI systems and stepping up as a globally benchmarked data-driven nation.

Atal Dulloo also highlighted how the integration of trusted national datasets with the JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) has enabled the Government to target the beneficiaries directly, reducing leakages from astronomical to negligible levels. He observed that moving away from older “one-size-fits-all” centralised planning, this dynamic data ecosystem will allow for micro-level scientific urban and rural planning, supporting health, education and employment infrastructures tailored to the unique strengths of individual villages and districts.

Underlining the immediate administrative tasks at hand, the Chief Secretary directed the Deputy Commissioners and district administrations to ensure seamless grassroots execution. He issued clear directives for immediate completion of training for all the Census officers and Enumerators, ensuring full readiness for the self-enumeration process beginning from May 17 and the subsequent house to house field work starting June 1, 2026. He further highlighted that census data plays a pivotal role in determining the financial share of States and Union Territories and guiding development initiatives for the next decade.

Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Chief Principal Census Officer Amit Sharma shed light on the two-phased structure of Census 2027. The first phase will cover House Listing and Housing Census (HLO), consisting of Self Enumeration Period from May 17 to May 31 and House to House Field Work from June 1 to June 30, 2026. The second phase shall focus on Population Enumeration (PE), which will commence in September 2026 for snow-bound areas and in February 2027 for the non-snowbound regions.

He emphasised that Census 2027 will be a fully paperless, technology-driven initiative. Enumerators will collect and submit data directly via a dedicated mobile app. However, self-enumeration will be the preferred method. A secure web portal, available in 16 languages, will allow citizens to submit their details online before the door-to-door surveys begin. Additionally, a new Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) will enable near real-time tracking of all field operations.

To ensure smooth execution, Amit Sharma noted that a structured training hierarchy is already in place, with comprehensive training for Enumerators and Supervisors currently underway across the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Andrea M. Wojnar, Resident Representative of UNFPA India, said that similar census practices anchored in digital technology and self-enumeration are being adopted across the world. She expressed confidence that Census 2027 will be a robust and comprehensive exercise in India as well.

Wojnar underscored the fundamental purpose of any census, emphasising that it is designed to ensure that no segment of society is left unaccounted for in welfare programmes and policy decisions. Accurate and inclusive enumeration, she stated, is foundational to evidence-based governance and equitable development.

Praful Kumar Sigtia, Deputy Director General (Information Security), UIDAI, drew parallels between Census 2027 and the colossal exercise of Aadhaar enrolment, highlighting the scale, complexity and technological sophistication common to both national exercises. He laid emphasis on the meaningful processing of data for practical purposes, acknowledging the critical importance of translating vast volumes of collected information into actionable insights.

Sigtia also touched upon the efficacy and security of data, stressing that robust compliance frameworks are in place to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of citizen data – frameworks that impart confidence to the data owners, namely the citizens of India.

Rohit Kumar, Co-Chair (Policy Making) G20, shed light on the monumental scale of the census exercise and its technical aspects. He elaborated on the global implications of the exercise for informed policy-making at both national and international level, underlining the significance of Census 2027 in the context of India’s evolving data governance landscape

Composition: General coaches, Sleeper coaches (Around Rs 240/- fare only), 3AC coaches (around Rs 780/- fare only).

Around 200 reserved seats still available in each train each side.

Acting on specific and reliable information regarding the movement and preparation of bovine smuggling, a police party was immediately dispatched to the said location to take preventive action. Upon reaching the spot, the police team noticed suspicious activity linked to smuggling operations.

During the course of action, the police party was suddenly confronted by a group of individuals present at the site, who turned hostile and started heavy stone pelting on the police personnel in an attempt to resist the operation and facilitate the escape of the smugglers. The situation quickly escalated as the police team was surrounded by the miscreants.

In the incident, one police driver sustained injuries due to the intense stone pelting and was later shifted for medical attention. Despite the challenging circumstances, the police team maintained restraint and continued their efforts to control the situation.

It has also been reported that during the confrontation, some individuals from the group opened fire on the police party. In response and in self-defense, the police personnel fired a few controlled rounds to disperse the attackers and safeguard themselves. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the firing on either side.

Passengers holding either reserved or unreserved tickets may avail themselves of this train service for their journeys. The train schedule is as follows:

Train No. 04679 will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 10:10 AM and arrive in Srinagar at 1:35 PM.

On its return journey, Train No. 04680 will depart from Srinagar at 3:15 PM and reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 7:00 PM.

En route, this train will make scheduled stops at Reasi, Sangaldan, and Banihal railway stations in both directions.

Commenting on the successful operation of the train, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal stated, “Due to ongoing heavy rainfall and landslides in the region, road traffic on the National Highway (NH-44) has been completely disrupted. Considering the difficulties faced by passengers—particularly devotees visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and local residents—the Railways has decided to operate a special train service between Katra and Banihal.

Our primary objective is to provide a safe and convenient travel option for stranded passengers. On its inaugural day today, the train carried over 1,000 passengers. The passengers have highly appreciated this special train service, he said.

Keeping this commendable initiative in mind, and with the aim of providing even better facilities to locals and tourists, a special train service has once again been launched between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. Both reserved and unreserved passengers are eligible to travel on this train.”

 Meanwhile Railway achieved another milestone today by successfully operating a special train—Train No. 04689/04690 (Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Banihal)—between Katra and Banihal. Through this special train service, more than 1,000 passengers completed their journeys, thereby significantly strengthening rail connectivity in the region.

This special service was introduced with the specific objective of providing improved connectivity for passengers traveling from Kashmir to Katra, particularly in light of road traffic disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.

Departing from Katra, the train carried a large number of tourists alongside local residents, all of whom traveled with great enthusiasm. Furthermore, passengers thoroughly enjoyed their journey while profusely appreciating this initiative undertaken by the Jammu Division.

According to the Railway Administration, the primary objective behind this successful operation is to ensure safe and rapid transportation across challenging terrains. Stringent arrangements regarding security and passenger amenities were implemented at the station to ensure that travelers did not face any inconvenience.

In the near future, the frequency of this train’s operations may be further increased, subject to demand and prevailing circumstances.

The highlight of this initiative was the successful operation of the train itself, which facilitated the travel of over 1,000 passengers, thereby providing them with superior and direct rail connectivity.

This special unreserved train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal is scheduled to operate once again on April 10.

The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police   Joginder Singh; Additional District Magistrates Anusuya Jamwal and Vidhu Shekhar, besides other officers from the district administration.

Reiterating the government’s resolve to mount a massive crackdown on drug menace, the DM said that drug abuse was not merely a law and order problem but a social emergency and that the administration was fully committed to fighting it with every resource and every partner at its command. He said the forthcoming drive would encompass stringent enforcement action alongside sustained public participation, emphasising that the fight against drugs must be waged at every level of society and that civil society stood at the very heart of this effort.

“We have to be forthcoming about this menace that is eating into the fabric of our society. We must end the stigma and encourage open conversations about drug abuse within families, among friends and across social circles,” he said.

The DM informed that Panchayat-wise and Ward-wise committees would be constituted to ensure grassroots-level monitoring and checks. Helpline numbers are being widely publicised and overall administrative support is being significantly augmented to mount a concerted and coordinated fight against drugs.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to protect whistleblowers, Dr. Minhas assured complete anonymity and safety to anyone providing information regarding drug trade. He further affirmed that all possible support would be extended to those seeking help to free themselves from the grip of addiction.

The DC also announced that youth clubs would be formed across the district as part of the broader public outreach initiative, channelling the energy of young people into the anti-drug movement.

Seeking active support and cooperation from civil society members, the DM urged them to serve as the eyes and ears of the administration, engaging in vigilant monitoring and promptly reporting suspicious activity through designated channels.

Suggestions and inputs were also presented by the attendees on strengthening the three-month drive, underscoring that the experience and reach of civil society would be invaluable in shaping a campaign.

The house was informed that Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, shall lead a Padyatra on April 11, commencing from MA Stadium and culminating at the Parade Ground. The Padyatra would herald the beginning of a rigorous three-month chain of awareness events, community mobilisation drives and sustained activities aimed at combating drug abuse across the district.

The meeting was attended by a broad cross-section of civil society, including heads of religious bodies, representatives of trade and transport unions, educators, social activists and other community leaders.

The Lieutenant Governor reviewed the facilities at the New Terminal Building, including baggage carousels, waiting lounge, public amenities and the parking space.

The Lieutenant Governor was informed that the state-of-the-art terminal, spread over approximately 19,000 square metres, is being developed as a three-level structure and will be completed in two phases. Phase I includes the construction of 20 check-in counters, an inline baggage handling system (BHS), provision for a 700 kWp rooftop solar power system, two arrival carousels, 15 lifts and 12 escalators. In Phase II, the existing old terminal building will be demolished to facilitate the construction of an apron along with four additional aircraft bays and three aerobridges.

It was further informed that the addition of four new bays will significantly enhance operational capacity, enabling the airport to handle up to 54 flights per day, as against the current 18 flights. The New Terminal Building is designed to cater to 3.5 million passengers annually, with a peak-hour capacity of handling 2,000 passengers per hour (1,000 arrivals and 1,000 departures).

Highlighting the project’s innovative features, officials stated that gradient floor heating using geothermal technology will be implemented on a large scale for the first time in the country. The project also integrates sustainable elements such as solar rooftop systems to reduce carbon emissions.

It was informed that the completion timeline for the New Terminal Building has been revised, with the project now expected to be completed by August 2026.

During the inspection, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the New Terminal Building would be a major catalyst in boosting tourist footfall in Ladakh, especially with the anticipated increase in flight operations. He described the project as a dream initiative of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and directed officials to expedite the pace of work by deploying additional manpower and ensuring round-the-clock execution, with a target to complete the project by July 2026.

Shri Saxena lauded the adoption of cutting-edge and eco-friendly technologies, particularly the use of geothermal energy for heating and cooling, as well as solar power systems. He also appreciated the incorporation of locally inspired architectural elements, including prayer wheels, stupas and culturally themed departure and arrival gates, which would offer visitors an authentic glimpse of Ladakh’s rich heritage upon arrival.

The Lieutenant Governor assured full support from the UT Administration for the early operationalisation of the New Terminal Building and the expansion of flight operations. He noted that the enhanced infrastructure would play a pivotal role in positioning Ladakh as a leading tourist destination in the country, while also generating significant economic opportunities for local communities associated with the tourism sector. 

The decision has been taken in pursuance of the directions issued during the 76th Meeting of the Board chaired by Manoj Sinha, Lt. Governor, JK-UT, wherein it was resolved to prioritize procurement from SHGs, women and young local entrepreneurs. The objective is to create a robust platform for local communities to actively participate in the economic ecosystem linked with pilgrimage activities, thereby promoting inclusive growth and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.

Notably, each Self-Help Group comprises around 30 to 35 local women and cumulatively, these groups have engaged approximately 450 to 500 women across the region. By actively participating in income-generating activities, these women are making meaningful contributions to their household incomes, thereby improving the overall socio-economic well-being of their families and communities.

The Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya stated that by integrating SHGs into the supply chain, the Shrine Board aims to ensure a steady and sustainable source of income for these groups while promoting traditional skills and local craftsmanship. He emphasized that the engagement of SHGs in supplying raksha sutra and mouli items of deep religious significance not only enhances the authenticity and sanctity of the offerings but also provides a meaningful platform for local artisans. He further highlighted that this initiative is particularly empowering for women, who constitute a major share of these groups, enabling them to achieve financial independence and play a more active role in strengthening their household and community economies.

During the last financial year, the Board facilitated income opportunities amounting to approximately ₹3.50 crore for these SHGs, significantly contributing to their economic upliftment. Building upon this commitment, the Board has further resolved to onboard additional SHGs for sourcing Mata’s offerings locally, thereby creating a direct and sustained market for the products prepared by these groups and expanding livelihood opportunities to nearly 1,500 women in the region with an aim at channeling resources back into the local economy, fostering community-driven growth and strengthening grassroots enterprises.

The Shrine Board remains committed to expanding such initiatives in the future, thereby contributing towards sustainable economic growth and reinforcing its role as a catalyst for community development in the region.

DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav wrote on X; “District Amritsar Rural, District Gurdaspur, SSOC-Amritsar in a joint operation with Central Agencies busts an #ISI-sponsored BKI terror module operated by foreign-based handler and arrests two accused”.

“Significant recoveries include: 5 hand grenades, 2 special detonators,  PTT timer with coder & decoder, 9V battery,  IED material (1 kg high explosive packed with nails), 1 Baofeng walkie-talkie with cable & trigger mechanism—indicating preparations for high-impact attacks aimed at disturbing public peace”.

“FIR has been registered at PS Kalanaur, #Gurdaspur under relevant sections of the Explosive Substances Act. Further investigation is underway to establish forward and backward linkages, including foreign handlers and local support networks”.

The appointments, made on compassionate grounds, aim to provide much-needed employment support to families who have lost their primary earning members, reaffirming the government’s commitment to stand firmly with such families in times of distress.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government has made sincere efforts to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the people, particularly those who have endured personal tragedies.

He remarked that while securing a government job is a moment of great pride and happiness, the circumstances under which these appointments are granted are deeply painful for the candidates.

“Some people get government jobs through examinations and interviews. But you have made a sacrifice far greater than any test. You have lost someone precious, someone who is no longer with you,” he said, acknowledging the emotional weight carried by the beneficiaries.

The Chief Minister noted that no compensation can truly substitute the loss of a loved one, adding that if there would ever be a choice to make, no one would ever choose employment over the return of a departed family member.

Highlighting systemic reforms, the Chief Minister stated that the transition from SRO-43 to the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme was aimed at addressing structural shortcomings and improving efficiency.

He acknowledged delays in processing such cases and assured that further efforts would be made to remove bottlenecks.

“Even today, there are gaps in the system which we will try to remove. We understand that delays in clearances and procedures add to your hardship. We will make every effort to simplify and expedite this process,” he said.

Describing the situation faced by beneficiaries as a colossal loss, the Chief Minister stressed that forcing affected families to navigate cumbersome procedures would amount to injustice.

“After such a loss, if people are made to move from office to office, it is a grave injustice. We are committed to ending this,” he asserted.

Congratulating the appointees, the Chief Minister described the occasion as the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and urged them to dedicate themselves to public service with honesty and integrity.

He reminded them that, unlike elected representatives whose tenure depends on public mandate, government employees have a long-term responsibility to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“From today till your retirement, you will serve the people. Always choose the difficult but correct path over the easy one,” he advised.

He cautioned the new recruits against external influences and urged them to remain vigilant and committed to ethical conduct in their professional roles.

Reiterating the government’s supportive stance, the Chief Minister encouraged beneficiaries to reach out to concerned authorities in case of any difficulty, assuring that their concerns would be addressed promptly.

Invoking faith and hope, he prayed for their success in fulfilling their responsibilities.

The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the Divisional Administration, particularly the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and his team, for facilitating the issuance of appointment orders and expressed hope that pending cases would be cleared expeditiously.

The event was attended by Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar, Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary General Administration Department M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner SMC Fazlul Haseeb, MD KPDCL Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Director SKICC Haris Ahmed Handoo, Director Tourism Kashmir Qamar Sajad, other senior officers, and a large gathering of beneficiaries along with their families.

His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, His Eminence Palga Rinpoche, His Eminence Stakna Rinpoche, Ven Sanghasena from Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) and monks and representatives from various monasteries were present in the meeting with the Lieutenant Governor. The meeting also deliberated on preparatory rituals and ceremonial aspects. It was informed that the All Ladakh Gonpa Association will oversee the conduct of chanting recitals by monks from 16 monasteries.

During the meeting, venerable Rinpoches shared valuable suggestions to make the event more inclusive and spiritually enriching. The suggestions included organising a combined chanting of mantras by all 16 monasteries. It was proposed to showcase the life events of Lord Buddha — from birth to enlightenment — through drone-based visual presentations, and create awareness through distribution of pamphlets and QR-code-enabled information at the Tourist Facilitation Desk at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport and other prominent tourist places.

Suggestions were also made to install informational standees at hotels and guest houses and to organise a special prayer offering at Khardung La. Additionally, it was recommended that the official Tathagata website should include information in Hindi as well, to ensure wider accessibility.

Agreeing with the suggestions of the Rinpoches, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for coordinated efforts to ensure a world-class experience for devotees and visitors. Describing the exposition as a historic occasion for Ladakh, Shri Saxena directed that all arrangements be carried out in a seamless and coordinated manner and sought the active cooperation of the venerable Rinpoches and monastic institutions for the success of the event.

Saxena further directed that prominent landmarks such as Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo, forts and the Leh Main Market be illuminated with decorative lighting to create a festive ambience. He also stressed the need to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience with information about the event.

Highlighting his vision, the Lieutenant Governor stated that the event presents a unique opportunity to position Ladakh on the global map as a leading spiritual and wellness destination. He also emphasised the need for robust security arrangements, adequate drinking water and public convenience facilities, and installation of CCTV cameras along key routes to ensure the safety and comfort of devotees and delegates.

Notably, the Sacred Relics are expected to arrive in Leh on April 29, where they will be accorded a grand ceremonial reception. The 2569^th Buddha Purnima will be celebrated with full religious fervour on May 1, at Jivetsal, followed by the public exposition of the holy relics from May 2 to May 9 for veneration at the same venue.

Thereafter, the relics will be taken to Zanskar for public veneration on May 11 and 12. Subsequently, the relics will be displayed at the Dharma Centre in Choglamsar on May 13 and 14, before being flown back to Delhi on May 15. It was also informed that simultaneous exhibitions showcasing Buddhist artefacts/scriptures will be organised at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies and Leh Palace.

A series of parallel events will also be held at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, including meditation and yoga sessions, as well as medical health camps. In addition, interfaith dialogues and seminars on themes such as “International Conference on Himalayan Buddhism,” “Peace in Times of Conflict,” and “Past, Present and Future of Buddhism in Ladakh” will be held. Film screenings on the life of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Memorial lecturer series, and a talk on “Modern Science and Buddhism” by Geshe Namdak are also part of the programme.

The campaign, aimed at eradicating drug abuse from the Union Territory, will be marked by a series of high-impact awareness programs. The Lieutenant Governor will flag off a mega “Padyatra” from MA Stadium, Jammu, on April 11, 2026, followed by a similar large-scale launch in Srinagar during the first week of May.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized on mass public participation of students and youth, NCC, NSS, Scouts & Guides, volunteers, civil society organizations, political parties, public representatives and the general public to maximize outreach and awareness.

“The influx of drugs to the UT is part of a larger international conspiracy to jeopardize the future of the youth of Jammu Kashmir. Every section of the society must join this fight against drug menace”, the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor directed for continuous and intensive drives to dismantle drug trafficking networks.

‘Don’t Touch the Innocent and Don’t Spare the Culprit’ is our policy. We must identify the real victims of drug abuse and make committed efforts for their rehabilitation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The meeting also discussed the series of activities planned and department-wise activity calendar prepared for the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. UT and Divisional Level Committees have already been constituted for effective implementation of the IEC campaign and action plan.

The Lieutenant Governor further directed to make the campaign a Jan Andolan with active participation of people. He also called for integration of public suggestions along with the feedback mechanism to make this campaign more impactful. Common public should also be encouraged to report the drug abuse cases, he said.

The meeting was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; S.J.M Gillani, Special DG (Coordination); Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; V.K Birdi, IGP Kashmir; DIGs, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and other senior officials.

As per NAAC Manual, student placement is one of the yardsticks for ranking an HEI.

According to ’Quality Mandate for Higher Education Institutions in India’ issued by UGC, an HEI should fulfill expectations of industry and prepare employable and skilled graduates.

For facilitating placements and summer internship for the students, a Placement Cell

(PC) headed by Dean Student Placements was in place in the Jammu University since 2009. As per the CAG report, records showed that the cell had not followed any process/ calendar for placement activities.

“Audit further observed that none of the students enrolled in general courses offered by the University had secured placements and the placement activity was restricted to a few select departments. Out of over 1,000 students enrolled in professional departments such as MBA (International Business), MBA (Hospitality and Tourism) and MCA programme, only 224 had got placed during 2017-22” the CAG report stated.

The CAG report further stated “Dean Student’s Placement stated (February 2023) that placement being an industry driven process, it was difficult to develop a structured calendar for placement activities and that majority of corporate placements was in respect of professional departments.

Registrar, added in November 2023) that students enrolled in general courses usually opt for higher studies or prefer the Government sector as such placements in such courses is always less.

Regarding the train’s schedule: Train No. 04689 (from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Banihal) will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 10:10 AM and arrive at Banihal at 12:20 PM.

Conversely, on its return journey, the unreserved special train (No. 04690) will depart from Banihal at 2:00 PM and arrive at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 5:00 PM.

En route, the train will have stoppages at Sangaldan and Reasi railway stations in both directions.

Commenting on the operation of this special train, Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr. DCM) of Jammu, stated: “Due to inclement weather and heavy rainfall in the region, road services have been severely affected. The safety and convenience of passengers remain our utmost priority. In light of this, we have decided to run this special train to ensure connectivity between Katra and Banihal. This service will provide a safe travel alternative for thousands of tourists and local residents. We hope that this initiative will significantly facilitate passengers in reaching their respective destinations.”

Passengers are requested to consult the official railway website, dial 139, or check the NTES platform for detailed information regarding the train. 

The 14.5 kg IED, packed with high explosives and fitted with a remote trigger, was surgically handled and destroyed in a controlled manner.

Indian Army remains resolute in its commitment to keep Kashmir terror-free, the Chinar Corps added.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also launched the official portal for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha (https://tathagata.co.in/), marking a significant step towards enhancing Ladakh’s global spiritual and cultural outreach.

The tourism website has been conceptualised on the directions of the Lieutenant Governor as a comprehensive digital platform to serve as a central hub for promoting Ladakh as a premier travel destination. The platform will provide authentic, reliable and updated information to tourists while facilitating the growth of the tourism sector.

The website has been designed to be dynamic and user-friendly, featuring a tourism calendar to enable visitors to plan their travel around key festivals and events. It showcases Ladakh’s diverse offerings, including its spiritual and cultural heritage, tribal traditions, petroglyphs and rock art, adventure tourism, wildlife, astro-tourism, eco-tourism, wellness tourism, cuisine, sports, as well as its potential as a film destination and winter tourism hub. It will also provide tourists with real-time advisory on health, travel and weather conditions.  

The portal will also enable online registration of hotels, guest houses and homestays. In a major ease-of-doing-business reform, inspired by Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”, the number of documents required for registration has been reduced from 18 to just 2, while the validity period has been extended from one year to five years, thereby eliminating the need for annual renewals and reducing procedural burdens for the hotels/homestays/guest houses.

“These initiatives mark a significant step towards leveraging digital technology for tourism promotion, improving service delivery and preserving Ladakh’s cultural legacy, thereby reinforcing the UT Administration’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Ladakh Tourism portal, that has been launched for the first time since the inception of Ladakh as a Union territory, would enable AI-curated travel planning, allowing tourists to customise their itineraries based on their personal interests and budget. The primary objective is to promote tourism in Ladakh in a manner that benefits local communities while positioning Ladakh as a leading destination for adventure, spiritual and wellness tourism. Also, the digital platform would help showcase the region’s offerings globally, reaching audiences across the world.

The Lieutanant Governor also launched the website for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. This assumes significance in view of the upcoming historic event, which will commence on May 1 on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. The platform will provide detailed information about the exposition and associated programmes such as interfaith dialogues and seminars. It will also enable devotees to book online slots and obtain priority passes for the veneration of the sacred relics.

The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by SSP Arun Gupta, SDM Banihal Mohammad Naseeb Bajraan, Dy SP Traffic Surinder Pal Singh, Tehsildar Majid Keen, representatives of NHAI and other officers. Senior officers from the Police, Traffic Department, NHAI and Civil Administration were also present on the occasion.

Taking prompt action, the Deputy Commissioner pressed an adequate number of men and machinery from NHAI, Police, Traffic Police and other line departments into service to clear debris and remove rocks from the affected stretches. After continuous efforts and amid adverse weather conditions, traffic movement was restored at Sherbibi and other vulnerable locations on the highway.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for constant monitoring of vulnerable areas along NH-44 and instructed officials to remain on high alert in view of the prevailing weather conditions. He also appreciated the efforts of field staff and emergency response teams engaged in the restoration work.

The district administration has advised commuters to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow traffic and weather advisories issued by the authorities. People have also been urged to cooperate with the authorities and avoid unnecessary travel on the highway.

Being organized by the Housing and Urban Development Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, the event shall be held at the 4th Tawi Bridge to mark Baisakhi. The festival aims to highlight JMC’s ongoing work to make Jammu a cleaner and more culturally active city under the Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0.

The details were shared by JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav   at a press Conference held today in the presence of Joint Commissioner (H&S) Abdul Star and Joint Commissioner(R&E) Subah Mehta, along with Swachhata Champions, JMC officials, the Secretary and staff members who have worked on the city’s cleanliness drives. Their involvement shows the teamwork behind managing this large-scale cultural and environmental project.

The festival offers a variety of activities for the public, including the Tawi Aarti and boating on the riverfront. To make it a family-friendly event for Baisakhi, JMC is going to organize a traditional Mela, a Dangal (wrestling match) and a Food Festival. There will also be celebrity performances, a laser show, cultural programs and fun rides for children, making the riverfront a main attraction during the mela.

The Commissioner JMC Dr. Devansh Yadav said that the Mahotsav is a way to celebrate local traditions while committing to keep the Tawi River clean for the future. The Commissioner announced that the Tawi Mahotsav would be a three-day event starting  on April 14 till April 16.

Organized with the coordination of Departments of Tourism and Information, the festival shall take place on the left bank of the Tawi riverfront, which will be fully open to the public. The event includes the Dangal, food stalls with authentic Dogri cuisine and handloom exhibits. Families can use the dedicated play areas while supporting efforts to keep the “Surya Putri Tawi” clean.

A new feature this year is the introduction of professional boating services using motorboats and rafts. While entry to the festival and cultural shows is free, boating will cost ₹50 for children and ₹100 for adults. This is a trial run before a final report from the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS) Goa, which would help set up permanent water sports in the coming months. The Commissioner also informed that JMC has increased fines for littering to keep the riverfront clean, balancing the celebration with strict urban maintenance. JMC invites everyone in Jammu to join the festival and help make the city cleaner and more beautiful.