The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — During his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with locals at the Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir event in Srinagar, where he interacted with Nazim Nazir Dar, a Pulwama-based beekeeper and beneficiary of the Viksit Bharat programme.

Nazim, who caught the prime minister's attention, recounted his journey from a small-scale beekeeper to a successful entrepreneur.

He informed PM Modi that he initially received a 50 per cent subsidy for 25 boxes of bees in 2019. Since then, his beekeeping business has flourished, with the assistance of the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), which provided him with Rs 5 lakh. This support enabled him to expand his enterprise, leading to significant growth.

"In 2023, I sold about 5,000 kg of honey along with 2,000 honeycombs," Nazim shared with the prime minister, highlighting his remarkable progress in the apiculture sector. He also mentioned his efforts to involve others in beekeeping, with 100 individuals currently engaged in his business.

Impressed by Nazim's achievements, PM Modi shared a photo with him, referring to Nazim as his "friend" and commending him for the "good work" he is doing.

https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1765663162651881714

Modi expressed his admiration in a tweet, saying, "A memorable selfie with my friend Nazim. I was impressed by the good work he’s doing. At the public meeting, he requested a selfie and was happy to meet him. My best wishes for his future endeavours."

Nazim's journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success serves as an inspiring example of the transformative impact of government initiatives and individual determination in fostering economic growth and empowerment in the region.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — Pulwama district was aglow with cultural vibrancy during the celebration of Jashan Chilla-i-Kalan, an event that echoed the ethos of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY). The festivity, hosted at the Administrative Complex Pulwama, stood as a significant cultural milestone, showcasing the Valley's profound history and heritage.

The event, a part of an ongoing series of activities in the district, attracted a large audience. Dr Basharat Qayoom, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Pulwama, alongside officials including ADDC Pulwama and SSP Pulwama, graced the occasion, emphasizing the imperative nature of preserving cultural roots.

Various traditional stalls within the Administrative Complex exhibited a diverse range of products, providing a beautiful representation of the region's cultural traditions. Notably, live demonstrations of arts and crafts, such as pottery, Sozni embroidery, and live paper mache crafting, captivated the audience. Students brought historical narratives to life through engaging performances, enriching the celebratory atmosphere.

The event unfolded with live presentations showcasing various art forms, including traditional pottery and cultural performances. Local artists and students contributed to an immersive experience, portraying the region's heritage through paintings and cultural expressions.

During the program, the DC underscored the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage. He expressed that such events aim not only to honour the rich traditions but also to explore new avenues, including digital governance while celebrating heritage.

Acknowledging the region's transformative journey, the DC commended the efforts of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in effectively reaching beneficiaries and implementing developmental schemes.

The celebration encompassed a fusion of cultural richness, historical significance, and a commitment to modern governance, signifying a unified vision for preserving and promoting the legacy of Kashmir.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse