The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — On September 4, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack against Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, accusing him of acting like a monarch and "snatching" the Union territory's resources.

Speaking at a rally in Ramban on Wednesday, Gandhi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for denying J&K statehood five years after the revocation of its special status.

Gandhi, the former Congress president, drew parallels between the current administration and the region's erstwhile monarchical rule, which ended after India’s independence in 1947.

"Today, there is a 'king' named LG in J&K, who is taking your money and giving it to outsiders," Gandhi claimed. He vowed that his party would prioritize restoring J&K's statehood, asserting that the withdrawal of its autonomous status had not only stripped the region of its state identity but also diluted its people's rights and resources.

Gandhi further criticized the BJP's stance on statehood and elections, stating, "We wanted statehood restored first, and then elections. The BJP says elections first, then statehood. But we will push so hard that statehood will have to be returned, regardless of what the BJP wants."

The upcoming Assembly elections, set to take place in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, will be the first in J&K since the abrogation of Article 370, which ended the region’s special status.

The Congress party and its ally, the National Conference, have agreed to contest the polls together, with the National Conference running in 51 of the 90 Assembly seats and Congress fielding candidates in 32. A friendly contest is expected on the remaining five seats.

LG Manoj Sinha's responds to RaGa's criticism

Responding to Gandhi's comments, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha challenged the opposition leader to gauge public sentiment through a secret ballot.

Speaking at Aaj Tak’s 'Panchayat' event in Srinagar on Thursday, Sinha said he would resign if less than 75% of the people said that progress had been made in J&K over the past five years.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) should take the opinion of the public. If more than 75% do not say that work has been done for their welfare, I will resign," Sinha declared. He added that his administration was committed to ensuring free and fair elections, noting that political activities were already underway in the region.

Sinha also emphasized that J&K has seen significant voter participation, with the highest turnout in a Lok Sabha election in 35 years recorded earlier this year. He maintained that the people of J&K, especially in the Valley, have faith in India's democracy.

Reaffirming his support for the region's future government, Sinha remarked, "Whichever party forms the next government in J&K will have my full support."

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that Article 370 is no longer part of the Constitution, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court, and urged the opposition to acknowledge this change.

SRINAGAR — In a series of landmark decisions aimed at bolstering Jammu and Kashmir’s administrative, cultural, and economic frameworks, the Administrative Council (AC), chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, approved a range of measures designed to improve governance, enhance cultural heritage, and promote entrepreneurship.

Strengthening the administrative framework

The AC approved the creation of 83 new posts across different ranks in the Prosecution Department, ensuring that each of the Union Territory’s 20 districts will now have an independent Deputy Director. This move, in line with the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, is expected to significantly improve the management of legal prosecutions and expedite the delivery of justice.

Additionally, 772 posts were sanctioned for the Government Railway Police (GRP) to bolster security along the Katra-Banihal railway segment, following recommendations from a Multi-Disciplinary Committee. The creation of these posts spans from the Superintendent of Police down to lower non-gazetted positions, ensuring a robust security presence on this critical route.

In a bid to streamline the functioning of the State Election Commission, 30 new posts were created. This decision will support the smooth operation of the commission, which has been functioning with ad-hoc staff since its inception in 2020.

Cultural revival and support for local artists

In a significant boost to the region’s cultural heritage, the AC approved revised schemes for the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL). These initiatives include the expansion of the Sheeraza publication to include additional languages such as Shina, Balti, and Bhadarwahi, along with the revival of traditional art forms and the promotion of Sufiana and Indian classical music.

The council also introduced new schemes like the Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme, aimed at preserving the mentor-disciple tradition, and the Documentation of Intangible Cultural Heritage initiative, which will systematically archive the region’s rich oral and performing arts traditions. A modern Archival Studio will be established to digitally preserve these cultural expressions.

Furthermore, Rs 50 lakhs have been allocated to establish an Artists and Writers’ Welfare Fund, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the artistic community. The overall financial outlay for these cultural initiatives is Rs 5.76 crores.

Economic development through entrepreneurship

The AC also approved operational guidelines for the Jammu and Kashmir Startup Policy, 2024-27, which aims to nurture and inspire entrepreneurial talent in the region. This policy will provide comprehensive support to startups through seed funding, incubation, and market access, with the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) as the nodal agency.

Complementing this is the approval of Project YUVA (Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan), a groundbreaking initiative designed to accelerate employment opportunities through entrepreneurship. The project aims to create 1.37 lakh enterprises over the next five years, generating employment for 4.25 lakh youth. With a budgetary support of Rs 1,830 crores and additional funding expected from financial institutions, this initiative is poised to transform the employment landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.

Land transfers for industrial and security infrastructure

The AC also approved the transfer of over 2,292 kanals of land for various developmental projects. This includes land in Kathua and Samba districts for the establishment of industrial estates, which are expected to generate significant employment opportunities.

Additionally, land in Ganderbal district was allocated for the construction of police stations and posts, ensuring better security infrastructure in these areas.

SRINAGAR — The Administrative Council (AC) of Jammu & Kashmir, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday, has approved notable initiatives to enhance the UT’s infrastructure and educational framework.

In a crucial decision, the AC greenlit the solarization of all government buildings in Jammu & Kashmir, targeting an aggregate capacity of 270 MW. The project, estimated to cost Rs 400 crore, will be executed in both Capex and RESCO modes.

Managed by the Jammu & Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JKEDA), the initiative aims to leverage the vast rooftop spaces of government establishments for solar energy generation.

The plan includes installing Grid-Tied Rooftop solar power systems with bi-directional smart meters and Virtual Net Metering (VNM) benefits, enabling efficient energy adjustment across various government buildings.

The project, expected to be completed by December 2025, is projected to create over 10,800 jobs across highly skilled, skilled, and unskilled sectors. Additionally, the installation of 270 MW solar power plants is anticipated to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 8.3 million tons over 25 years.

The AC meeting, attended by Advisor to LG Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and Principal Secretary to LG Mandeep K Bhandari, stressed accelerating the deployment of rooftop solar projects across all government-owned buildings in the UT.

In another key decision, the AC approved the continued affiliation of government polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Leh and Kargil with the J&K Board of Technical Education.

This decision, requested by the Union Territory of Ladakh, aims to benefit the students of the region by ensuring a smooth admission process and timely conduct of examinations. The affiliation will extend until the end of the academic session 2025-26 or until Ladakh establishes its own Board of Technical Education.

SRINAGAR — The Administrative Council, under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has approved several major development projects across Jammu and Kashmir, signalling a significant boost in infrastructure and economic growth for the region.

In a recent meeting, the Council sanctioned the construction of multiple facilities for the Indira Gandhi Government Dental Hospital (IGGDH) in Amphala, Jammu. The project, estimated at Rs 42.50 crores, includes the development of hostels for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, married student accommodations, teaching and non-teaching staff quarters, a guest house, parking, an indoor sports hall, and essential infrastructure works. These enhancements are expected to bring the dental institute on par with national standards by providing adequate facilities for both faculty and students.

Simultaneously, the Council approved revised construction plans for Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) in Kathua, Doda, Anantnag, and Baramulla. The updated proposals address various logistical and infrastructural constraints, ensuring the colleges can provide tertiary healthcare services to the public in these districts. The revisions include improvements in road connectivity, water supply, power, HVAC systems, and accommodations for residents and interns, facilitating the smooth operation of the medical institutions.

In a move to boost industrial growth, the Council also amended the Jammu and Kashmir Industrial Land Allotment Policy 2021-30. The changes, based on stakeholder feedback, aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in land allotments. Key amendments include periodic revisions of lease premiums, competitive merit-based land allotments, detailed evaluations of applicants, and specific criteria for different industrial sectors. Notably, the policy now allows for preferential land allotment to mega projects with a minimum capital investment of Rs 4000 crores, aimed at attracting large-scale investments and generating employment.

Furthermore, the Council approved the transfer of 3188 kanals and 8 marlas of land to the Industries and Commerce Department for the development of industrial estates across various districts, including Kupwara, Bandipora, Anantnag, Pulwama, Baramulla, and Budgam. This land transfer is part of a broader strategy to develop industrial infrastructure, accelerate economic activity, and create employment opportunities post-2019.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir's capital city Srinagar is slated to host the maiden event of the Kashmir Marathon on October 20 this year. In this connection, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday unveiled the logo, website and teaser of the event's inaugural edition.

In his address, the Lt Governor congratulated the J&K Tourism Department and all the stakeholders associated with the international running event. He invited runners from all corners of the globe to participate in the Kashmir Marathon and experience the unique charm of J&K.

“We aspire to make this event a beacon of peace and harmony. I am confident the Kashmir Marathon will place J&K firmly on the global running map and it will enhance global recognition of the UT, highlighting our potential as a premier tourist destination,” the Lt Governor said.

He said the Kashmir Marathon is the next addition to the series of world-class events being organized in J&K following the successful F4 racing event in Srinagar, the Sunburn Music Festival in Jammu and J&K Tourism Development Conclave held recently in Srinagar. “We are also exploring possibilities to organise the annual Jammu Marathon,” he said.

Highlighting the socio-economic impact of the Kashmir Marathon, the Lt Governor said the event will boost local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, thereby contributing to the prosperity of our region.

For centuries, sports have remained the most powerful bridge to connect people of different cultures and languages. The Kashmir Marathon will integrate cultural events, performances, and exhibitions to showcase Kashmir’s rich heritage, and enhance the experience for all participants, the Lt Governor said.

“Kashmir Marathon is not just a race but a celebration of resilience, beauty, and the unbreakable human spirit. It will also celebrate our breathtaking scenery and promote eco-friendly tourism that benefits local communities,” he said.

On the occasion, the Lt Governor highlighted the efforts of the UT Administration, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to revolutionise the sports sector of J&K.

He called upon the youth of J&K to make the best of the opportunities being provided by the government in sports and other sectors and become the brand ambassadors of J&K.

The Kashmir Marathon will have two categories with full marathon for 42 km and a half marathon for 21 km. The proposed route for the Kashmir Marathon will take runners through some of the most picturesque landscapes, featuring Chinar trees, Mughal gardens, and the serene Dal Lake.

Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lt Governor; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; RR Swain, DGP; Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and senior officers of civil and police administration were present.

Padma Shri Chewang Motup Goba, Founder & Race Director of Ladakh Marathon, prominent sports personalities and youth in large number were also present on the occasion.

SRINAGAR — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, for unveiling what he hailed as a landmark budget during the Parliament session.

In his interaction with reporters here in Srinagar, LG Manoj Sinha articulated optimism that the budget would pave the way for a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) and foster development in Jammu and Kashmir.

He emphasized the budget's prioritization of farmers, youth, women, and the underprivileged, saying it shows the Central government's commitment to these pivotal sectors of society.

Sinha also expressed confidence of the normalization of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, anticipating enhanced development prospects and overall stability in the region.

"This budget, with its emphasis on employment, skill development, MSMEs, and the middle class, aims to realize the vision of empowering every stratum of society," the Lt Governor remarked.

He further highlighted key priorities outlined in the budget aimed at creating ample opportunities for all, ensuring rapid progress and social equity.

"The Budget 2024 reinforces a robust and compassionate grassroots system, ensuring that every individual enjoys the benefits of social justice," added the LG.

PULWAMA — Shri Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), will preside over the university's third convocation on July 25, 2024.

Prof. Anil Kakodkar, a distinguished nuclear scientist and recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, will be the chief guest and deliver the convocation address. Prof. Kakodkar has held key positions including Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, and Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Atomic Energy.

Sh. R. R. Bhatnagar, Advisor to the LG J&K, and Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman of the J&K Higher Education Commission, will be the Guests of Honour.

Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, will present the university report. The convocation will see over a thousand graduating students receiving degrees, including 27 gold medallists, 53 merit holders, and 19 doctorates.

Prof. Romshoo emphasized that the convocation is an important occasion to honour the graduates and marks a journey of excellence in research, academics, and outreach. He reiterated IUST's commitment to providing quality education and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, innovative approach, and strong values among its students.

SRINAGAR — In a significant move aimed at modernizing the criminal justice system in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Director General of Police R R Swain announced the implementation of new laws designed to replace outdated colonial-era statutes and strengthen efforts against militancy and organized crime.

Speaking at the PHQ Auditorium in Srinagar, Lieutenant Governor Sinha emphasized that the new laws mark a crucial step towards justice and equality, aligning with the principles enshrined in the Constitution of India. "These laws are a reflection of our commitment to restorative justice and victim rights, moving beyond mere punishment to rehabilitation and societal reintegration," he stated.

Highlighting the historical context, Sinha recalled debates from the Constitutional Assembly, stressing the long-awaited shift from colonial-era laws such as the IPC of 1860. "This transformation has been our dream since independence," he remarked, noting the comprehensive focus on addressing root causes of crime.

Meanwhile, Director General of Police R R Swain outlined the strategic importance of the Bhartiya Nyaya Samhita in combating cross-border militancy and organized crime syndicates. "These laws provide a clear legal mandate to tackle threats to national security, ensuring robust measures against unlawful activities," Swain explained, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced resources and training to meet new operational demands.

The implementation of these laws also introduces stringent protocols for law enforcement, including real-time monitoring through CCTVs and enhanced transparency in arrest procedures, as part of efforts to bolster accountability and efficiency.

Both officials expressed optimism about the transformative impact of these reforms on the UT's security, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and the public in shaping these legislative advancements.

JAMMU — Amid a surcharged religious atmosphere, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of 4603 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims from the Amarnath Yatra base camp in Jammu this morning.

Before flagging off the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, LG Manoj Sinha also offered special prayers at the temple.

As per the news agency KNO, the 52-day-long pilgrimage to the cave shrine at a height of about 13,000 feet in southern Kashmir Himalayas will commence from the twin tracks—the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the 14-km shorter but steep Baltal route in Ganderbal on June 29.

After flagging off the first batch, in a media address, LG Manoj Sinha said, “First batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims have departed from Jammu. In the last 3-4 years, a lot of arrangements have been made for the Yatra and this time also J&K administration has done all the necessary arrangements, security has been heightened.”

He sought support from locals in making the Yatra a grand success, adding that "elaborate security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage."

He also posted on social media about the ceremony. The post from Office of LG J&K reads, “Flagged off first batch of devotees for the pilgrimage to the holy cave of Shri Amarnath Ji. My best wishes to all the pilgrims for a safe, blessed, and spiritually enriching journey. May the blessings of Baba Amarnath Ji bring peace, happiness & prosperity to everyone’s life.”

Ahead of the Amarnath Yatra, thousands of pilgrims have reached Jammu. The first batch will travel in high security in a convoy and reach Pahalgam and Baltal base camp where they will start their Amarnath Yatra.

The pilgrims were seen chanting “Bham Bham Bholey” and dancing in excrement to be part of the first batch of Amarnath Yatra. Among the 4603 pilgrims, 3631 were male, 711 females, 252 Sadhus and nine children. They were travelling in a cavalcade of 231 vehicles.

Meanwhile, the BJP leader Devender Singh Rana, who also accompanied LG at the ceremony said, “We hope that with the grace of Bhole Shankar, this year also the Yatra will bring happiness and would be a good experience for everyone…like every year. People will get Jammu and Kashmir resident’s love, affection and care. The people from all over the nation will receive the blessings of Lord Shiva. Whole India and Jammu and Kashmir will fasten its way of the path of development. Like every year, this year also, all the arrangements have been made.”

CCTVs have also been installed on national highways to strengthen security and address traffic-related issues.

The 52-day-long pilgrimage to the cave shrine at a height of about 13,000 feet in the southern Kashmir Himalayas begins on June 29 and will continue till August 19. So far 3.5 lakh pilgrims have registered for the Yatra while a large number is expected due to the increased quota of on-the-spot registration.