The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Government ordered the deputation of 57 Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service officers to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) on a short-term basis.

As per the communiqué, the officers will be deployed as Camp Directors and Additional Camp Directors at various camps along the route of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2024.

It said that the Controlling Officers are instructed to relieve the selected officers so they can report to the office of the Chief Executive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, on a date that will be communicated by the Board separately. The exact deployment of the officers will be determined by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board.

During their deputation, the officers will continue to draw their salaries from their current places of posting. They will return to their respective positions immediately after the conclusion of the Yatra 2024, it further said.

The arrangement ensures that the necessary administrative support is provided for the smooth conduct of the Yatra, while maintaining the officers' employment terms and conditions, it added.

SRINAGAR — Following a tragic accident in Jammu, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has suspended six officials, including a Motor Vehicle Inspector from the Regional Transport Office in Kathua.

As per an order issued by the Transport department, an in-depth enquiry has also been initiated with officials directed to submit a report within a week.

Suspended officials, as per the order, include Ranjeev Bhasin, Motor Vehicle Inspector; Sumit Magotra, Junior Assistant; and four MTS staff: Ashwani Kumar, Aman Kumar, Keshav Singh, and Rakesh Kumar.

Parmvir Singh, Additional Secretary (Technical), Road Safety Council, J&K, has been appointed as the Inquiry Officer.

Notably, the accident, which occurred on Thursday, claimed the lives of 22 pilgrims and injured 69 others.

The deceased included six children and eight women, while the injured comprised 17 children and 29 women. The pilgrims, mostly from Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, were en route to the Shivkhori Shrine in Reasi district.

SRINAGAR — In a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has declared human rabies a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897.

As per a notification issued by the Health and Medical Education Department, all government and private health facilities, including medical colleges have been directed to report any suspected, probable, and confirmed cases of human rabies to the respective Chief Medical Officer and the State Nodal Officer of the National Rabies Control Program.

"Rabies is an acute viral that affects all warm-blooded animals including humans and is caused by animal bites having extremely high fatality rate. India accounts for 59.9% of rabies deaths in Asia and 35% of deaths globally," it said.

However, rabies is completely preventable by timely and appropriate Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). In order to achieve the WHO goal of zero deaths due to human rabies by 2023, it is important to establish a strong surveillance and disease reporting system so that the exact magnitude of the disease can be assured. This will help to develop strategies as per regional condition for prevention, control and elimination of rabies," reads the notification.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Department Government of India in its letter vide D.O No 2283429/NRCP/DZDP-NCDC/DGHS, dated September 20, 2021 requested all States/UTs to make human rabies a notifiable disease, thereby making mandatory for all government and private health facilities (including medical colleges) to report all suspected, probable and confirmed human rabies cases as per 'Guidance Document' for rabies as a notifiable diseases formulated by National Rabies Control Program (NRCP), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

"Notification will facilitate contact, tracing and promptly prophylactic measures to prevent infection in other people exposed to the same source," it states further. "Now, therefore, in the exercise of the powers conferred by section 2 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 (Act No. 3 of 1897), the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir hereby declares 'Human Rabies' as a 'Notifiable Disease' in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir," it adds further.

"This notification shall come into force with immediate effect and shall remain valid till further orders," the notification reads.

SRINAGAR — Amid the tourism boom, the J&K administration has constituted district-level committees to be headed by the concerned deputy commissioners for the identification of land to establish 5-star hotels in the Union Territory.

The move comes at a time when J&K is witnessing a huge tourism influx. Earlier, the local news agency KNO reported that over a million tourists including a record number of foreign guests have visited Kashmir till mid-May.

As per the order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), number—1116-J&KGAD, dated May 30, 2024, sanction is hereby accorded to the constitution of district level committee (s) for identification of land for establishment of 5-star hotels in the Union Territory.

The panel(s), as per the order, will have concerned deputy commissioners as its chairman with the concerned Director Tourism, DFO, Chief Town Planner, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of District Industries Centre as its members.

“The terms of reference of the committee(s) will be to identify suitable land for the establishment of 5-star hotels. This may include state land, forest land, private land etc having the potential and feasibility considering factors such as accessibility and other basic infrastructure required for the project,” the order reads.

The panel(s), as per the order, will submit the proposal through Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Jammu to the Tourism Department. The panel(s) will have to identify the site and suggest the distance from the tourist destination and road connectivity as well.

Officials in the Tourism Department said that there is a dire need to set up the 5-star hotels in J&K given the huge tourist influx. “When we intend to host over two crore tourists, there is a need to have quality infrastructure as well. This time, we are witnessing good arrivals of foreign guests from South East Asian countries and to give them better experience beyond the natural beauty of the Valley, we should have 5-star hotels across the UT,” he said and welcomed the J&K administration’s move of setting up panel(s) for identification of land for 5-star hotels.

A tourism official said that there are very few 5-star hotels in J&K and to host foreign guests, business class and quality tourists from the country, having 5-star accommodations will help push the sector further up,” he said.

The official said last year’s successful and peaceful G-20 summit has helped lure a large number of foreign tourists to J&K. “This year, we intend to host over 2.5 crore tourists, which will be a record,” he said.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday revised the file submission protocol for all its departments in the Union Territory.

As per the order, all files pertaining to various government departments that are not assigned to an Advisor will now be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary.

The change modifies the earlier Government Order No. 1026-JK(GAD) of 2020 of November 2, 2020 and Government Order No. 704-JK(GAD) of 2023 of June 16, 2023.

It, however, said that the files from the Home Department relating to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA) will continue to be submitted through the current channels of submission, without any changes.

SRINAGAR — The government is likely to announce summer vacation in Jammu and Kashmir schools in the wake of the prevailing heat wave.

The local MeT has said that there will be no let-up in temperatures, at least till Thursday.

Jammu recorded a temperature of over 42 degrees Celsius while the mercury is also on the rise in Kashmir Valley.

Parents, particularly in Jammu Division, have appealed to the Directorate of School Education to declare summer break in the interest of the school-going children.

Meanwhile, an RTI activist from Jammu, Raman Sharma has filed a petition in the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), seeking a declaration of summer vacations in Jammu and Kashmir educational institutions.

Mr Sharma’s petition, as per the news agency KNT, has urgently called for the declaration of summer vacations in schools to safeguard the health and well-being of school-going children.

The RTI activist in a request to the NHRC has highlighted the distressing impact of the relentless high temperatures on school-going children and has pointed out that many schools lack adequate cooling facilities, turning them into oppressive environments that pose significant health risks such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat strokes.

SRINAGAR — Despite the absence of a modification order from the Jammu & Kashmir Government's General Administration Department or administrative secretaries of other departments, government employees in Jammu & Kashmir have returned to duty amid confusion over the Eid holiday.

While banks remained closed on Thursday following a directive from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), reports indicate that chaos ensued over the holiday as Jammu & Kashmir celebrated Eid on Wednesday, in contrast to the rest of the country, which observed it on Thursday.

The confusion stemmed from Jammu & Kashmir, along with Ladakh Union Territory, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, celebrating Eid on Wednesday, while the rest of the nation observed it on Thursday.

Traditionally, state and union territory governments issue separate orders when festivals like Eid are celebrated on different dates across the country. However, the Jammu & Kashmir Government did not follow this precedent, opting not to issue any modification order or clarification.

Although Ladakh UT Administration and J&K High Court issued separate orders declaring Eid holiday for Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, the Jammu & Kashmir Government and Jammu & Kashmir Bank remained silent on the matter.

Internal communications from drawing and disbursing officers instructed employees to return to duty on Thursday despite confusion over the holiday. The officers assured employees that the Smart Attendance app would be updated to reflect Wednesday as a holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr.

Interestingly, non-Muslim government employees are granted 3-4 days of mass casual leave for Puja holidays. This time, Kashmiri Pandit government employees are availing four days of mass casual leave in connection with the Navratra festival celebrated earlier this week.

SRINAGAR — Land revenues have seen a remarkable rise from Rs 291 crore in the fiscal year 2019-20 to an impressive Rs 544 crore in 2022-23, following the registration system’s complete modernization and integration with the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS). Linking this system with Aadhaar has not only enhanced transparency and credibility but has also resulted in a notable increase in government income.

As per the reports received by the news agency KNO, in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370, rural areas of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are witnessing a remarkable surge in property registrations, marking a significant four-fold increase over the past two years. According to recent data, the number of registrations skyrocketed from 21,293 in 2020-21 to an impressive 80,128 in 2022-23.

The introduction of a digital system for property registration has revolutionized the traditional approach, liberating citizens from the cumbersome process of engaging Katibs (registry scribes).

Historically, land registration in Jammu and Kashmir was exclusive to the courts, dating back to 1889 when Maharaja Pratap entrusted this responsibility to the judicial system based on the Jammu and Kashmir Registration Act of 1977 Vikram Samvat. However, according to a senior Revenue official, with the repeal of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, and the subsequent formation of a dedicated land registration department under the Revenue Department, a paradigm shift has occurred.

This overhaul, as per the reports, led to the establishment of 77 registrars and sub-registrars who now operate under the purview of the Central Law Registration Act of 1908, replacing 153 state laws with 106 Central laws.

The transition to digitalization has particularly benefited rural areas, offering enhanced facilities such as SMS alerts for registration updates, mandatory thumb impressions, and the convenience of home-based and online registrations. This has proven especially advantageous for the elderly, disabled, and those unable to visit government offices.

Furthermore, reports inform that the integration of the registration system with the National Generic Document Registration System and Aadhaar has significantly bolstered transparency and credibility in the registration process. As a result, government revenues have witnessed a substantial increase, with income surging from Rs 291 crore in 2019-20 to a noteworthy Rs 544 crore in 2022-23.

SRINAGAR — For conducting government business, all treasuries of J&K including Civil Secretariat Treasury and Sub Treasury, New Delhi have been ordered to remain open on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

An order in this regard reads, “It is hereby ordered that All the Treasuries of Jammu District including Civil Secretariat Treasury and New Delhi Treasury shall remain open on Friday 29th of March, 2024 for conducting government business.”

The Civil Secretariat Treasury, J&K and Sub Treasury, New Delhi shall remain open on Saturday 30th of March, 2024 for conducting government business, reads the order.

“All Treasuries of UT of J&K including Civil Secretariat Treasury and Sub Treasury, New Delhi shall remain open on Sunday 31st of March, 2024 exclusively for the purpose of receiving government receipts only,” the order added.

It was said that the last date/time for receipt of claims for disbursement at Treasury for the fiscal year 2023-24 shall be 25th of March, 2024 at 04:00 PM. “Treasury Officers shall communicate consolidated liability on 29th of March by 05:30 PM. The bills/claims so presented in the month of March are liable to Special Audit wherever required.”

Any bill presented after the cut-off time in the Treasury shall be entertained with the prior approval of the Finance Department, it added.

SRINAGAR — To address the longstanding issue of unemployment, the Jammu and Kashmir Government is going to initiate the recruitment process to fill more than 12,000 vacant positions across various government departments.

As per an official document available with the news agency KNO, the Jammu and Kashmir administration will fill 12,264 positions that have been vacant in various government departments for many years.

The document said that the government since 2019 has filled as many as 31,830 vacancies in various government departments through multiple recruitment drives. “These 31,830 selections have been made in a fair, transparent, and expeditious manner. Interviews have been dispensed for the posts up to the pay level 5,” it said.

Official sources said that the vacancies are to be filled in departments including Health, Jal Shakti, Social Welfare, Rural Development department and others.

“The government has already enlisted the number of vacancies in various departments. We have a large number of vacant posts in the health department. Multiple recruitment drives shall follow this year and all the vacant posts will be filled in a speedy manner,” they said.

Officials said the recruitment drive will prioritize transparency and efficiency, adhering to established guidelines and procedures. The selection process is expected to be conducted rigorously, ensuring merit-based appointments to maintain the integrity of the civil services.

“By filling these vacancies, the government aims to strengthen its workforce, streamline service delivery, and promote inclusive development across the region,” they said.

Pertinently, Jammu and Kashmir as per the Ministry of State for Labour and Employment has recorded a decrease in the unemployment rate for graduate persons of age 15 years.

As per the ministry, during 2021-22, the estimated Unemployment Rate (UR) in Jammu and Kashmir was 22.8% for graduate persons aged 15 years. During 2022-23, the estimated unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir was 18.3 for graduates aged 15 years.

It is worth mentioning that the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department has recently referred more than 4,000 vacancies of police constable posts to the Services Selection Board.

JAMMU — The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday dismissed an employee namely, Manzoor Ahmed Laway, son of Mohammad Yaqoob Laway and resident of Manzgam, DH Pora, District Kulgam, a teacher in the Education department, under Article 311 of the Constitution of India for his involvement in 'anti-national' activities.

Article 311 of the Constitution of India provides for the dismissal of a person employed in civil capacities under the Union or a State.

The activities of the employee had come to the adverse notice of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, as they found him involved in activities prejudicial to the interests of the State, such as involvement in 'terror-related' activities.

"Manzoor Ahmed Laway is involved in two FIRs registered at Police Station DH Pora, Kulgam and was one of the instigators who along with his associates instigated a mob on 09.07.2016 to cause damage and destruction to government property and in the process, the mob marched towards Police Station DH Pora and looted arms, ammunition and other government property from Police Station and later set the Police Station on fire," the dismissal order stated.

The order further said, "In another incident on 10.09.2016, the subject along with his associates led an unruly mob which resorted to stone pelting on a joint party of police and security forces in which armed gunmen from amongst the mob fired indiscriminately upon the police party."

Manzoor Ahmed Laway as a teacher had the responsibility to guide the students and not to indulge in activities directed against the security of the state and when the subject is himself instrumental in fomenting secessionism among the student fraternity, then his role as a teacher does not serve the purpose for which he has been appointed to government service, the government said in the order.

It went on to reiterate that the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards anti-national elements who have been taking advantage of being in government service. Prior to this, 56 government officials have been dismissed by invoking the provisions of Article 311 of the Constitution of India.

SRINAGAR — The government on Friday appointed Dr Minu Mahajan (Rtd. Principal) as Chairperson, Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examination (JKBOPEE).

“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 4 read with Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examination Act, 2002, the Lieutenant Governor of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is pleased to appoint Dr Minu Mahajan (Rtd. Principal), as Chairperson, Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examination,” reads the government order.

The order further stated, “She shall hold the position of the Chairperson, Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examination for a period of two years or until she attains the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. Her appointment shall take effect from the date she assumes the office.”

JAMMU — The High Court has expressed displeasure and anguish over the non-representation of the government in arms license scam.

While hearing the arms license case, a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh and Justice M.A. Chowdhary expressed deep anguish and displeasure over the non-representation of the J&K Government and Union of India as their Counsels were not present.

“Neither the UT Government is represented by any Counsel nor there is any representation on behalf of the Union of India when the matter is taken up because of which this court is unable to pass any order,” observed the court. Advocate Rahul Raina appearing for the petitioners submitted that the administration is shielding the IAS officers allegedly involved in the arms licenses scam and is sitting over the prosecution sanction files deliberately for the last two years and has also posted the tainted bureaucrats on prime positions whereas the prosecution sanction was granted against JKAS officers way back in the year 2021 and several challans have been filed in the CBI Special Courts in UT of J&K.

Advocate Rahul Raina further submitted that there cannot be two laws — one for common men and the other for the IAS officers.

The Division Bench observed that it is unable to pass any order in the absence of any Counsel from the government. The Division Bench directed the Registry that a copy of this order be sent to the concerned Ministries of the Union of India and also to the UT Administration for necessary action.

Looking into the importance of the matter, the Division Bench directed the registry to re-notify the matter for April 23, 2024.

Pertinently, under this scam, it is alleged that more than 2.78 lakh arms licenses were issued to non-entitled persons in J&K between 2012 and 2016 and all this took place under some top-notch IAS officers.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced the appointment of Chaman Lal Sharma as Director of Horticulture for Jammu and Zahoor Ahmad Bhat as Director of Horticulture for Kashmir. Additionally, Chandrashekhar Bharti has been appointed as Principal Secretary to the Government, Home Department.

According to an order, Chaman Lal Sharma, currently serving as Joint Director of the Horticulture Department, will assume the role of Director of Horticulture for Jammu. Similarly, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, also a Joint Director in the Horticulture Department, will take on the position of Director of Horticulture for Kashmir. Both appointments are effective immediately.

"The above arrangement shall be purely temporary in nature to meet the functional requirements of the department and will not entitle the officers for any claim of promotion or other benefits from the date they hold the charge of the post," the order states.

Furthermore, Chandrashekhar Bharti, an IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre from the 1996 batch, has been appointed as Principal Secretary to the Government, Home Department, with immediate effect.

"In the interest of administration, Shri Chandrashekhar Bharti, IAS (AGMUT:1996), awaiting orders of adjustment, is posted as Principal Secretary to the Government, Home Department with immediate effect," the order reads.

JAMMU — In line with the announcement of ensuring housing to the rural poor in Jammu and Kashmir by Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has released a significant amount of Rs. 272.55 crore for disbursement among the beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) through Direct Benefit Transfer.

This amount included the Central share of Rs. 245.30 crore released by the Ministry of Rural Development recently.

The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has initiated a series of interventions at the ground level for effective implementation of the scheme aiming at providing housing support to vulnerable families in rural areas. Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, consistently reviewed the implementation of the scheme to ensure sustained efforts and targeted achievements on this account.

According to an official communique received here today in this regard, the Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj has disbursed Rs. 200 crores among the PMAY-G beneficiaries in the last 10 days, facilitating payment of the first installment to 3450 beneficiaries, second installment to 24388 beneficiaries and third installment to 9860 beneficiaries.

It is imperative to mention here that the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj has been implementing the CSS PMAY-G since April 1, 2016, to provide monetary assistance to construct 3.37 lakh pucca houses with basic amenities. Nearly 187694 houses have been completed to date, of which a record number of 59982 houses have been completed in 2023-24 only.

Further, 149282 houses are at various stages of construction and the department is putting in strenuous efforts eyeing completion of ongoing houses in the ensuing six months. The PMAY-G would fulfill the beneficiaries’ dream of a ‘Pucca House’ with basic amenities, boost their self-esteem, social status and standard of living.

In this endeavour, 138511 PMAY-G houses were sanctioned in June 2023 in the block-level camps against a special target allotted by the Union Ministry of Rural Development, pursuant to the personal efforts of the Lieutenant Governor.

As a sequel to this, the department has achieved successful saturation of Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) and Awaas Plus Permanent waiting lists, besides disbursing Rs. 1285.41 crore housing assistance among the beneficiaries against an approved allocation of Rs. 1726 crore.

To ensure comprehensive coverage, the Administrative Council, led by the Lieutenant Governor, took a significant decision to allocate five-marla land to land-deprived families being covered under PMAY-G, ensuring their inclusion in the scheme. The UT Government remains committed to providing additional assistance of approximately Rs. 400 crore to PMAY-G beneficiaries by the end of this financial year.

Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhry, Secretary Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, has effectively mobilized field staff to meet scheme objectives promptly. He has initiated several innovative measures to facilitate efficient implementation and ensure timely completion as well as quality of construction works.

SRINAGAR — In a groundbreaking development, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has achieved unprecedented success in its recent auction of liquor shops, with revenues surging to an all-time high of Rs 2280 crore in the fiscal year 2024.

This substantial increase in revenue, as per the official reports, compared to previous years, underscores the efficacy of the state's revamped excise policy, which was implemented three years ago to streamline the auction process and enhance revenue generation.

As per the reports received by the news agency KNO, the auction witnessed fierce bidding wars, culminating in the sale of a liquor shop in Qazigund, Kashmir, for an astounding Rs 5.23 crore.

This historic bid not only marks the highest ever recorded in the erstwhile state but also highlights the growing investment interest in the region's liquor industry. Similarly, a shop in Ramnagar, Udhampur, fetched a commendable Rs 3.41 crore.

"The overwhelming response to the auction demonstrates the buoyancy of the market and the potential for further revenue generation," says an official, adding that we are committed to fostering a conducive business environment and ensuring transparency in the auction process."

The success story of the auction is further underscored by the steady growth in excise revenue over the past few years. In 2020, the department recorded earnings of Rs 1320 crore, followed by Rs 1353 crore in 2021, Rs 1777 crore in 2022, and Rs 1796 crore in 2023, culminating in the historic milestone of Rs 2280 crore in 2024.

Looking ahead, officials anticipate continued financial growth, with 38 liquor shops yet to be auctioned. "We remain optimistic about the prospects for revenue generation in the coming years. With prudent policies and effective management, we aim to maximize revenue streams and contribute to the socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir," reports quoting government sources said.

Reports inform that the significant increase in excise revenue is poised to bolster the government's fiscal capabilities, enabling it to invest in critical infrastructure projects, social welfare programs, and other initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. As the auction process continues to unfold, stakeholders express optimism for sustained economic prosperity and stability in the region.

SRINAGAR — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reiterated the government's position on engaging with Pakistan, emphasizing a shift towards prioritizing dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth.

In an interview with a national television, LG Sinha underscored the steadfast stance of the Government of India and the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

He affirmed that until Pakistan demonstrates a tangible shift in its behaviour, diplomatic negotiations with the neighbouring country remain off the table.

When pressed on the potential for future talks in the event of a change in Pakistan's conduct, LG Sinha maintained that discussions will only materialize following a genuine alteration in Pakistan's approach. Until such changes occur, diplomatic dialogue with Pakistan will remain suspended.

JAMMU — In a significant move aimed at boosting economic growth and fostering entrepreneurship, the Administrative Council (AC) of Jammu and Kashmir, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has approved the development of seven new Industrial Estates and unveiled the J&K Start-up Policy 2024-27.

The industrial development initiative spans across various districts of the Union Territory, with a total investment of Rs. 304.51 Crores. These estates, spread over 5290 kanals of land, are projected to attract an estimated investment of Rs. 8700.16 Crores and generate employment opportunities for approximately 28,376 individuals.

Among the key areas slated for development are Banderpora Budgam, Sempora Medicity in Srinagar, Bhagthali in Kathua, Karandi in Samba, Trenz in Shopian, Hariparigam in Tral Pulwama, and Khunmoh at Pantha Chowk in Srinagar.

Each estate is meticulously planned to cater to specific sectors and industries, with investments ranging from Rs. 22.74 Crores to Rs. 83.13 Crores, aimed at fostering growth and employment generation.

Simultaneously, the AC approved the J&K Start-up Policy 2024-27, superseding the 2018 policy. The new policy aims to establish 2000 new start-ups in the region over the next five years.

To facilitate this, the government will establish a Venture Capital Fund of Rs. 250 Crores, with an initial infusion of Rs. 25 Crores. This fund will primarily support recognized start-ups in Jammu & Kashmir. Additionally, mechanisms will be devised to provide land allotments and one-time seed funding of up to Rs. 20 lakhs to selected start-ups.

Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor, highlighted the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial talent and creating a conducive ecosystem for start-ups. He emphasized the need to refurbish existing policies to meet evolving challenges and bolster economic growth in the region.

The implementation of these initiatives will be closely monitored by a High Powered Committee headed by the Chief Secretary, ensuring efficient utilization of resources and effective execution of the development plans.

SRINAGAR — Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid Srinagar has said that the High Court has “reluctantly” given one week’s time to the Jammu and Kashmir Government to file its response to a petition over Mirwaiz Molvi Umar Farooq’s house detention.

The court stated that reluctantly and in the interest of justice, one week’s time as prayed for is granted for doing the needful, which however, shall be the last and final opportunity. The court listed the matter for March 6 and made it clear, if a reply is not filed, then the matter will be heard on the next date of hearing.

Meanwhile, Anujam Auqaf Jamia Masjid Srinagar has said that after Mirwaiz’s release in September 2023 after four years of ‘arbitrary’ house detention, he was only allowed to attend three consecutive Friday congregations in Jamia Masjid following the release.

“Since then, Mirwaiz has been prevented from going to Jamia Masjid on Fridays or addressing the faithful in any other mosque on religious congregations as the Mirwaiz,” it said.

“Whenever the Anjuman approached the authorities, they have dilly-dallied on the response, saying they will check with their higher-ups and get back, which they never do,” the Auqaf said.

It added, “Recently despite the important religious occasion of Shab-e-Miraj, Mirwaiz was again not allowed to go to Jamia Masjid. As the holy and important month of Ramzan is approaching when there are multiple religious events and congregations planned for Molvi Umar Farooq as the Mirwaiz, this approach of the authorities is concerning."

JAMMU — In a move to tackle the persistent power shortage in government buildings, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to make it mandatory for all its departments to install solar power panels.

This initiative as per the government sources has been taken to address the mounting expenditure on power dues incurred by various government departments.

The directive comes following a detailed communication issued by the Director of Planning in the Public Works Department to all government offices across the Union Territory. The communication outlines specific requirements, urging departments to provide essential details to facilitate the smooth implementation of the solar power initiative.

As per the news agency KNO, government offices are required to furnish information regarding the amount of available space without any shading, specify whether the office operates in a rented or government-owned building, and detail the monthly expenses incurred on power bills. This comprehensive data will aid in customizing solar solutions that align with the unique requirements of each department.

A source within the government, speaking on the condition of anonymity, emphasized the urgency of such a measure. "The decision to make solar panels mandatory in government buildings is a proactive step towards reducing the burgeoning expenses on power bills. Many government offices, both in rented and owned buildings, consume a substantial amount of electricity. By harnessing solar power, not only will we contribute to a cleaner environment, but we will also significantly alleviate the financial burden on the state exchequer."

The move is particularly timely considering the increasing demand for electricity and the associated costs incurred by government departments. Solar panels not only offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative but also provide a long-term solution to the perennial issue of power paucity.

A government official involved in the decision-making process commented, “The decision to mandate solar panels in government buildings is a visionary move by the administration. By tapping into solar energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also fostering fiscal responsibility. The cumulative impact of this initiative will be felt not only in terms of cost savings but also in promoting cleaner and greener practices within government infrastructure.”

“It is expected that this directive will pave the way for a substantial reduction in electricity bills for government offices, resulting in considerable savings for the state. The holistic approach to gathering specific information from each department reflects the government's commitment to tailoring sustainable energy solutions to the unique needs of different government offices,” says a senior government official.

As the Union Territory gears up to embrace solar energy on a larger scale, this initiative marks a significant stride towards a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious government. With the potential to set an example for other regions, Jammu and Kashmir's move towards solar power integration is a noteworthy step in the quest for a sustainable and cost-effective future.