The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha cast his vote on Saturday in Mohanpura village, Mohammadabad Assembly Constituency, Ballia, Uttar Pradesh Parliamentary Constituency. Sinha emphasized the importance of a high voter turnout to strengthen the democratic process.

Arriving at the polling station early in the morning, Sinha, accompanied by local officials and security personnel, participated in the electoral process with enthusiasm. After casting his vote, Sinha urged all eligible voters to come out in record numbers and exercise their franchise, reported the Srinagar-based news agency KDC.

"Voting is not just a right but a responsibility for every citizen. I urge everyone voting today to turn out in record numbers and strengthen our democracy by exercising their franchise," Sinha stated.

He added, "A high voter turnout is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy. It reflects the people's commitment to shaping their future through democratic means."

The Election Commission of India has made extensive arrangements in the last phase to ensure a smooth and secure voting process across the state. Special measures have been implemented to facilitate voting for the elderly and differently-abled, ensuring inclusivity in the democratic process.

JAMMU — The Administrative Council, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Sh. Manoj Sinha, embarked on a series of decisions aimed at enhancing various sectors of development across Jammu and Kashmir.

In a move to alleviate the burden on domestic power consumers, the Administrative Council approved the extension of the Amnesty Scheme-2022 until March 31, 2025. This scheme, benefiting over 86% of Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department (JKPDD) consumers, aims to waive 100% interest/surcharge on outstanding principal amounts, facilitating affordable installment payments (EMIs) for consumers.

With Rs. 235.58 crore already recovered under the scheme, the government anticipates a reduction in commercial losses and improved financial stability for DISCOMS.

Simultaneously, the Council sanctioned the Jammu and Kashmir Film Policy-2024, designed to position the region as a cinematic hub. With a focus on administrative facilitation, financial assistance, and infrastructure development, the policy underscores the commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering national competitiveness.

Notably, the policy introduces a Film Development Fund of Rs. 500 crores, catering to diverse film projects and ensuring equitable opportunities for regional filmmakers.

Furthermore, the Administrative Council approved the installation of a vertical lift from Peerkho Station to Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, integrating key tourist attractions and enhancing accessibility.

This initiative, coupled with the transfer of Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society to the Culture Department, aims to streamline heritage preservation efforts and bolster tourism, aligning with the government's vision of showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a significant move towards agricultural development, the Council sanctioned the transfer of 22 Kanals and 2 Marlas of land for establishing a Dairy Plant in Estate Devipora, Ganderbal district.

With the Jammu and Kashmir Milk Producers Cooperative Limited leading the implementation, this project is poised to benefit approximately 1.50 lakh milk producers and generate employment for 400 to 500 individuals, contributing to economic growth and nutritional enhancement in the region.

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 — Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has suggested the possibility of holding Assembly elections in the Union Territory by September this year. He made the comments during an interview with a national news channel.

In his remarks, Sinha expressed his belief that with Lok Sabha elections underway across the country, Assembly elections in J&K could take place by September.

Additionally, he stated that the restoration of Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would occur at an appropriate time following the Assembly polls, citing an affidavit submitted by the government to the Supreme Court regarding this matter.

The Supreme Court, while affirming the Centre's decision to revoke Article 370, a temporary provision, ruled on December 11 last year that Assembly elections should be conducted in J&K by September this year.

The ruling, issued by a 5-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, also directed the Centre to expedite the process of reinstating Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, excluding the Union Territory of Ladakh.

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 — Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Nitish Pramanik said the Centre was making every effort to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a sporting state.

On the inaugural day of the Khelo India Khelo Winter Games 2024, Pramanik highlighted the government's dedication to providing extensive support and resources to nurture sporting excellence in the region.

“Every effort is being made to make Jammu and Kashmir a sporting nation. Sports and infrastructure development is being prioritised so that athletes get facilities to make a mark in their respective fields,” he said.

The union minister said the government’s efforts towards sports development in Jammu and Kashmir become evident with the Centre’s budgetary allocation for Jammu and Kashmir’s sports sector.

“We all witnessed how the development of Jammu and Kashmir took place after Article 370 abrogation. Jammu and Kashmir’s sports budget is much more than many bigger states of India. It shows how bright the future is going to be for Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre is taking various measures for the development of the union territory,” he told reporters as per the news agency KNO.

Pramanik said Kashmir is replacing Switzerland as a winter sports destination. “There was a time when athletes used to go to Switzerland for winter sports. Now, we have seen that athletes from Switzerland are coming here for winter sports. I saw even in this bone-chilling cold weather, people are coming for Khelo India event which shows the sporting spirit in India,” he said.

The minister outlined various initiatives and programs tailored to promote sports at all levels.

The fourth edition of Khelo India Winter Games festival started on Wednesday at Gulmarg. Athletes from different parts of the country took part in several winter games during the event including Snowboarding, Snow Mountaineering, Nordic Skiing, and Alpine Skiing.

The Khelo India Winter Games 2024 event is being organized by the Department of Youth Services & Sports, J&K Sports Council in collaboration with the Tourism Department, Gulmarg Development Authority and several other stakeholders.

The first part of Khelo India Winter Games Festival 2024 took place from 2 to 6 February in Leh, and it mainly included games like Ice Hockey & Ice Skating.

Speaking on the occasion, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that it is a momentous occasion for more than 600 athletes who have been preparing for this spectacular event.

He invited the athletes, team officials and sports enthusiasts to enjoy the warm hospitality of Jammu and Kashmir, enjoy the thrill of Alpine Ski, Nordic Ski, and Snow Mountaineering competitions and also enjoy the incredible sights and cuisine of the paradise on earth.

“The 4th Khelo India Winter Games, over the next four days, will honour the hard work, skills, dedication and sporting excellence on ski slope and I am confident it will renew the spirit of brotherhood, peace and harmony among all the teams,” the Lt Governor said.

At the inaugural ceremony, the Lt Governor highlighted the efforts of the government to promote robust sports culture in cities and villages of the Union Territory.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a new era of sports has emerged in Jammu Kashmir. Renewed thrust on state-of-the-art infrastructure and allied facilities has given a huge impetus to the sports sector," the LG said.

"Our talented sportspersons have proved their mettle in national and international sports events. Their achievements are inspiring the budding athletes to bring laurels to the UT and the nation," he said.

JAMMU — The Administrative Council (AC), chaired by Shri Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, met on Monday and approved the reinstatement of provisions allowing for the creation of wait lists in government recruitment processes.

In attendance were Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; and Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor.

The AC's decision reverses the amendments made to various recruitment rules, including the J&K Civil Services Decentralization and Recruitment Rules, 2010; the J&K Appointment of Class-IV (Special Recruitment) Rules, 2020; the J&K Combined Competitive Examination Rules, 2018, and Business Regulations of JKPSC/JKSSB, among others.

Furthermore, the Council granted a one-time exemption to recruiting agencies to create wait lists within six months for select lists issued since the previous decision. However, this exemption is contingent upon the wait lists being drawn within the validity period of the select list and ensuring that resultant vacancies due to non-joining of selected candidates have not been re-advertised.

This decision is expected to expedite the filling of vacancies, reduce delays in the re-referral of vacancies, decrease the time taken in subsequent selections, and enable candidates to secure employment before reaching the upper age limit.

SRINAGAR — Five years since 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soldiers were killed in a suicide attack on a convoy of 78 military vehicles carrying armed personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the fallen troopers today and said their "sacrifice for our nation will always be remembered".

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "I pay homage to the brave heroes who were martyred in Pulwama". "Their service and sacrifice for our nation will always be remembered," he added.

The 2019 Pulwama attack occurred on February 14, 2019, when a convoy of vehicles carrying Indian security personnel on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in the Pulwama district of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The suicide bomber who carried out the attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar, a Kashmiri youth from the Pulwama district. The military convoy was transporting more than 2,500 Central Reserve Police Force personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday paid tributes to the 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel who lost their lives in the suicide attack. “Humble tributes to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. The nation will forever remain indebted to their exemplary courage, supreme sacrifice, and selfless service to the motherland,” Sinha wrote on X.

On behalf of Jammu and Kashmir Police, DGP J&K RR Swain paid heartfelt homage to the CRPF men who made ultimate sacrifice in 2019 Pulwama attack. "The sacrifices of CRPF personnel will forever be etched in our hearts. As we remember these heroes, let's renew our commitment to securing peace, "DGP has said.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, declared at the ET Now Global Business Summit 2024 that a total of 154 government employees have been dismissed from service due to their involvement in militancy activities. He affirmed that actions against such individuals will persist.

Attributing militancy and separatism in the region to Article 370, Sinha criticized previous administrations for plunging Jammu and Kashmir into turmoil. He highlighted the transition from past unrest, such as stone pelting and strikes 'orchestrated by Pakistan', to the present scenario where the youth are proudly hoisting the national flag.

Sinha noted significant milestones achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, notably the abrogation of Article 370. He emphasized the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir, including the reopening of cinema halls after three decades and a vibrant revival of markets.

"The transformation in Jammu and Kashmir is credited to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, achieving once deemed impossible targets, notably the Article 370 abrogation. Stone pelting and Pakistan-backed strikes are history, with the region now progressing akin to other parts of India, witnessing the revival of nightlife and cinema halls," Sinha said as he affirmed his administration's firm stance against Pakistan supporters, prioritizing the restoration of law and order.

SRINAGAR — In a significant development for Jammu and Kashmir, the Rajya Sabha on Friday passed two bills aimed at fostering social inclusion and political representation in the Union Territory.

The first bill, the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, received approval to provide reservation to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Panchayats and Municipalities. Additionally, it empowers the State Election Commission to conduct Urban Local Bodies polls, a task previously held by the Chief Electoral Officer.

Introduced in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai on February 5, the bill was swiftly cleared by the Rajya Sabha via voice vote today, marking its immediate implementation.

Simultaneously, the Rajya Sabha endorsed the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which grants scheduled tribe (ST) status to Paharis and three other communities in the region. This bill, passed three days after its approval in the Lok Sabha, includes Paharis, Paddaris, Gadda Braman, and Koli communities in the Scheduled Tribes list of J&K.

The passage of these bills signifies a significant step toward inclusive governance and representation in the Union Territory. Both bills were cleared without contention.

The State Election Commission is now tasked with overseeing civic polls, ensuring fair representation for all segments of the population in local governance. This move underscores efforts to strengthen democratic processes and promote social equity in Jammu and Kashmir.

The administration has reiterated that the ST status granted to Paharis will not impact existing reservations for other tribal communities, including Gujjars and Bakarwals.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha affirmed on February 6, 2023, that the inclusion of these communities in the Scheduled Tribes list will not diminish current reservation levels. He assured that necessary notifications would be issued to ensure equitable reservation provisions for all eligible communities.

SRINAGAR — Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, made significant appointments on Monday, reinforcing the administrative landscape of the University of Kashmir.

Dr Naseer Iqbal has been appointed as the new registrar, while Dr Fayaz Ahmad Loan assumes the role of Librarian at the Allama Iqbal Library.

Additionally, Dr Sheikh Ghulam Mohammad has been designated as the director of the North Campus, and Dr Mandeep Singh is appointed as the director of Physical Education.

The appointments, based on the recommendations of the selection committee for various positions at the University of Kashmir on a tenure basis, were confirmed by an official from the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat.

The official statement emphasized that the appointments are subject to satisfactory vigilance clearance.

SRINAGAR — Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha on Tuesday announced the approval of an enhanced monthly remuneration for supporting staff associated with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Fulfilling a long-standing demand, the LG said this move is set to benefit approximately 4000 employees. "J&K Admin is committed to the well-being of all the staff and their families," he said.

"Enhancement of monthly remuneration of MGNREGA supporting staff has been approved, thereby fulfilling their long pending demand. The move will benefit around 4000 employees. J&K Admin is committed to the well-being of all the staff and their families," the Office of LG said in a post on X.

JAMMU — Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that this year the J&K administration will give land for the construction of Sainik Colonies in both Kashmir and Jammu for the families and NoK’s of fallen heroes.

The Lieutenant Governor also advocated the participation of retired soldiers, officers and policemen in the ongoing fight against militancy, stating, "Terrorism was on its deathbed but the adversary was trying to fuel it again."

Addressing the function in Jammu after interacting with the veterans, veer Naris and NoKs of slain soldiers, the LG as per the news agency KNO said that four crore tourists visited the UT in the past two years.

“1.88 crore tourists visited J&K in 2022 and 2.12 crore guests visited the UT in 2023. There is a peaceful atmosphere prevailing in J&K but our adversary can’t digest the peace and continues its efforts of abetting terrorism,” the LG said.

“In the recent security review meeting, I advocated that ex-servicemen including officers, soldiers, policemen should be roped in for the decisive fight against terrorism,” the LG said.

He said that Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia for the families of fallen soldiers was too low. “I will ensure that the amount is raised this year only,” the LG said.

JAMMU — The Administrative Council (AC) which met here under the chairmanship of the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha approved carrying out amendments in Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 to incorporate the definition of OBCs in the Act to ensure their reservation in this grassroots democratic institution.

Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary, Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor attended the meeting.

Earlier, the draft J&K Panchayati Raj Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 was submitted to MHA, GoI and observations raised by MHA were examined and necessary amendments have been incorporated in the revised draft J&K Panchayati Raj Act (Amendment) Bill.

The Amendment Bill proposes the incorporation of the definition of OBCs for providing reservation for the Other Backward Classes, explaining a method of disqualification from membership of Halqa Panchayat, suspension and removal of Sarpanch, Naib-Sarpanch and Panch by the Government. It also defines the process for removal and conditions of service of the State Election Commissioner (SEC) here.

The proposed amendments aim to make the J&K Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 more effective by ensuring transparency in the functioning of PRIs, constitutional alignment & consistency with practices in other states where reservation has been provided to the OBCs apart from the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.

JAMMU — The Administrative Council (AC), which met here under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, approved a proposal of the Finance Department for granting amnesty for the settlement of Tax arrears about pre-GST regime.

Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor attended the meeting.

This step is going to provide relief to the tax-payers in the form of waiver of interest and penalty besides recovery of the blocked revenue to the government.

Earlier, all dealers could not take benefit of the erstwhile amnesty scheme issued vide Government Order No. 39-FD of 2018; Dated 05-02-2018 due to various reasons including the COVID-19 pandemic.

As such, a large number of representations were received from the trade/industry sector for granting a one-time opportunity to the dealers for settlement of the outstanding arrears under the pre-GST tax legislation. The amnesty scheme provides relief to dealers on:

i) 100% waiver of penalty and interest under J&K General Sales Tax Act, 1962, and Central Sales Tax Act, 1956, for assessment/re-assessment up to 2017-18 (07-07-2017 for all and 31-08-2017 for liquor dealers);

ii) 100% waiver of penalty and interest under J&K Value Added Tax Act, 2005, and Central Sales Tax Act, 1956, for assessments up to 2017-18 (07-07-2017);

iii) Waiver of interest and penalty in (i) and (ii) subject to 100% payment of principal tax in the manner and within the prescribed time as per the scheme to be notified by the Government;

iv) Settlement of demands for Industrial Units under repealed J&K Value Added Tax Act, 2005 (up to 2017-18) (upto 07-07-2017), J&K General Sales Tax Act, 1962 (up to 07-07-2017 and 31-08-2017 for liquor-dealing units), and Central Sales Tax Act, 1956, in respect of assessed/re-assessed demands including yet to be assessed cases with certain conditions to be notified in the scheme.

This decision on the part of the government will result in minimising tax dispute cases and winding up pre-GST cases etc. The time limit for receiving the applications for this amnesty will not be more than six months from the date an order is issued in this regard.

SRINAGAR — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Jammu on Wednesday morning to personally evaluate the situation prevailing in the Rajouri-Poonch region following the recent ambush that claimed the lives of four soldiers in Dera Ki Gali, Rajouri district.

An unnamed official, quoted by the news agency KNO, said that Singh, accompanied by Army Chief General Manoj Pande, was received by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha upon their arrival.

After landing in Jammu, the Defence Minister, along with senior officials, left for Rajouri to assess the ongoing anti-terror operation and the security landscape in the area.

Rajnath Singh urges amiable relationship with civilians

Meanwhile, during his visit to Rajouri, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the significance of maintaining harmonious relations between the military and the civilian populace.

Addressing soldiers during his interaction, Singh underscored the importance of avoiding civilian casualties during counter-militancy operations and acknowledged the pivotal role of soldiers in combating militancy.

He reassured the soldiers, stating, "Every soldier is part of our family; your efforts are instrumental in winning battles and eradicating militancy. We will endeavour to win the hearts of all citizens. You (soldiers) all have a huge responsibility on your shoulders, and for that, we will always be grateful to you."

However, amidst these deliberations, the region continues to grapple with the suspension of mobile internet services.

Farooq Abdullah expresses doubts ahead of Rajnath Singh's visit

In a contrasting perspective, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah expressed scepticism regarding Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Jammu, particularly in addressing recent incidents, such as the civilian deaths in Poonch.

Speaking in Kulgam, Abdullah stated, "I have no expectations from his visit. Can he bring back the dead? Does he have that power? But he can do this much that such injustice is not repeated."

Abdullah expressed his anticipation for the Defence Minister to offer solace to the affected families. Additionally, he touched upon the need for talks between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to ensure friendly relations between the two nations.

While addressing concerns about the escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine, Abdullah highlighted the criticality of international intervention for the cessation of conflicts and the desire for peaceful resolutions.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor on Monday lashed out at the mainstream parties for opposing the land for landless, stating that these people are responsible for the killings of 50,000 innocent people.

“These people can’t digest peace as they don’t want it. They were provoking people to promote street violence and see the closure of schools and colleges. These people are responsible for the killing of 40,000 to 50,000 innocents in J&K,” the LG said while addressing a three-day national workshop on 'Panchayat with Good Governance' at Convention Centre here, as per the news agency KNO. He, however, didn’t name any political party or a person.

Pertinently, National Conference Vice-president Omar Abdullah had questioned who were the homeless and landless in J&K while PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti too had cast aspersions on the allotment of land and homes to the “homeless.”

Asking Sarpanchs, Panchs, BDCs and DDCs as to whether they can pinpoint a single case where land or home was provided to a non-J&K resident under PMAY, the LG said, “There was much noise that land is being provided to the non-J&K residents. Not a single non-J&K resident has been provided land or home under PMAY,” he said.

The LG said that some people keep on asking a question about what has changed in the past four years. “They can’t see peace prevailing in J&K. Street violence, which was routine, has ended and schools and colleges remain open throughout the year. People would be seen leaving for their homes soon after sunset, but today, even after 10 pm, restaurants and hotels are open. Youth including boys, girls and even the elderly spend time playing music or enjoying ice creams on the Jehlum front. This is what has changed,” he said and added, “This is indeed a big change.”

He said those not able to digest peace continue to provoke people on one or the other pretext to revive street violence.

The LG said that in the past four years, many national and international events were held in Srinagar but today’s event on Panchayati Raj is the biggest one.

“I believe real governance flows through Panchayats. Village with good governance is a dream of every Panchayat that will be fulfilled,” he said, adding that 30,000 projects are underway at the Panchayat level. “Funds, Function and Functionary has been streamlined and people are enjoying and reaping the benefits of the Panchayati Raj system,” the LG said.

SONAMARG (GANDERBAL) — Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that the three-decades-long conflict in Kashmir was a “business for some people” who filled their own coffers while the common man was left to suffer on all fronts.

He, however, was quick to add that security forces are pushing the last nail in the coffin of terrorism and dismantling the entire terror ecosystem to make peace a permanent feature.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Golden Glory Eco Park at Sonmarg and other events under Meeri Maati Mera Desh, the LG, as per the news agency KNO, said that the conflict tag on the face of Kashmir for three long decades was actually a “great business opportunity” for some people whose first preference was to fill their own pockets while the common man was left suffering on all fronts.

“Now, security forces are putting in their entire energy to push the last nail in the coffin of terrorism. Terror eco-system is being dismantled fully to make peace a permanent feature in J&K,” the LG said. He said that people of J&K have a right to live a free life and a life of their choice.

“Gone are the days when they were asked to live life on the direction of others. Some people want to revive street violence to get back into the business, but their plans will be scuttled on all fronts,” he said. “Today, separatism, terrorism and street violence is a thing of the past.”

He said that a poor man has a first right on every government scheme. “I don’t know why some people felt pain in their stomachs when we announced land for landless. In the first phase, 2711 people were provided land under the PMAY scheme. Home is not just a home for the poor but a beginning of a long journey of fulfilling dreams,” he said, adding that “8000 more people of whom the majority are Bakerwals are eligible for the 'land for the landless'. If some people feel pain in their stomachs, they will have to bear that pain.”

He said that this year so far, 10 lakh tourists visited Sonamarg and Ganderbal. “There were 130 homestays available in the district. Homestays provided a great opportunity for the people of Ganderbal to earn a living,” the LG said.

He said that lakhs of Amarnath Yatris were hosted by the people of Ganderbal. “I want to put it on record that all Amarnath pilgrims went back with a message of brotherhood, peace and harmony,” the LG said. He also said that Ganderbal is touching new heights in development and peace.

KULGAM — Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday made a big announcement, stating that the government will take care of poor man’s power bills but those having palatial houses, iPhones with 5G internet service and other gadgets have to pay power tariff as per their usage.

“Let me announce today that the government will take care of the poor who can’t afford to pay bills. But those who have palatial houses, iPhones with 5G internet data and other gadgets will have to pay power bills as per their usage. They shouldn’t at least make excuses in paying the power bills,” the LG said while addressing a gathering at Mini Secretariat in southern district of Kulgam, as per the news agency KNO. He, however, did not elaborate further on this.

He said that in the last 70 years, 3400 MW of power was generated locally in J&K and in the next three years, equal MWs will be produced.

The LG said that wherever a feeder is 100 per cent metered, power disruption won’t be just for a minute, let alone an hour or so. “I urge people to cooperate with us in getting the smart meter installation process completed as soon as possible,” he said.

The LG said that J&K people are getting the cheapest electricity compared to other states. “We have borrowed Rs 20,000 crore worth of electricity from outside in the past three to four years. This won’t do. People must pay as per usage,” he said.

“Given the J&K’s topography and snowfall, some projects get delayed. Delay in completion of projects has been given to us in legacy and we are trying to break this tradition of delay in projects’ completion,” he said.

About farmers, he said that at present J&K farmers’ income is at number five across the country and time is not far when “our farmers’ income will be number one.”