INB-India News Bureau

24/12/2024

Javed Rana approves key proposal to accelerate tribal welfare in JK

Asks for inclusion of newly notified tribes under tribal welfare schemes

Beig Shamim Ahmed :DECEMBER 24: In a significant move towards empowering tribal communities and ensuring inclusive development, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, has approved a key departmental proposal for inclusion of newly notified tribes in Jammu and Kashmir under various tribal welfare schemes.
The Minister asked the Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department, Prasanna Ramaswamy G and Director, Tribal Affairs J&K, Ghulam Rasool and other senior officers to focus on expediting initiatives for socio-economic empowerment of the tribal population in J&K.
The Minister accorded approval for expansion of Dharti Aaba Mission, a flagship tribal development program aimed at improving the quality of life in tribal-majority villages. Under the proposal, which is being submitted to Ministry for Tribal Affairs (MoTA), the mission will cover 20 districts, 112 blocks and 393 villages notified in J&K.
Additionally, 676 new villages and 204 villages from aspirational districts including Baramulla and Kupwara, have been identified for inclusion, bringing the total number of tribal villages under the mission to 880. The Dharti Aaba Mission will prioritize interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and livelihood development.
The Minister emphasized the inclusion of newly recognized tribal communities under welfare schemes. With the recent amendment to the Jammu and Kashmir Scheduled Tribes Order, 2024, communities such as Pahari Ethnic tribe, Gadda Brahmin, Koli and Paddari have been added to the Scheduled Tribes list, doubling the tribal population of J&K to approximately 30 lakh, which accounts for 11.9 percent of J&K’s total population. These newly recognized tribes will immediately benefit from key programs such as Pre-Matric and Post-Matric scholarships to boost educational opportunities and Dharti Aaba scheme for livelihood development.
Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Aadi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) will be extended to tribal villages, focusing on holistic development with an emphasis on improving basic amenities and socio-economic indicators. A detailed socio-economic survey is also in the pipeline to identify the specific challenges and needs of tribal communities, ensuring that interventions are targeted and effective.
To further strengthen the tribal economy, self-employment schemes like Van Dhan Vikas Kendras are being prioritized. Under these initiatives, tribal artisans and entrepreneurs will receive skill development training, financial support and market linkages to promote their indigenous crafts and products.
The Tribal Affairs Department has prepared a comprehensive proposal to expand the coverage of tribal villages, selecting them based on specific criteria, such as a minimum population of 500 people with at least 50 percent belonging to Scheduled Tribes. For instance, Baramulla district will include 43 new villages alongside 54 aspirational district villages, while Kupwara will cover 50 new villages and 150 aspirational district villages, making them major hubs for tribal-focused areas.
Underlining the intent of the Government to ensure that all tribal welfare schemes reach their intended beneficiaries, the Minister instructed the Director Tribal Affairs to plan the launch of a series of awareness campaigns in collaboration with tribal leaders, NGOs and local bodies. These campaigns will educate communities about their rights and entitlements under various welfare schemes, he added.
Stressing the importance of a robust monitoring mechanism to oversee the implementation of tribal welfare schemes, Rana directed for regular reviews to ensure transparency, accountability and timely delivery of benefits.
Recognizing the pivotal role of women and youth in tribal communities, the Minister announced roll out of special initiatives under the Dharti Aaba Mission to empower tribal women through skill development centers and Self Help Groups (SHGs). Dedicated programs will also be launched for tribal youth, including career counseling sessions, sports programs and training for competitive exams to foster leadership and educational growth among the younger generation.
“The inclusion of newly declared tribes under welfare schemes marks a historic step in addressing inequities that have persisted for decades,” the Minister said, adding that the Government remains steadfast in its efforts to ensure that every tribal community has access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

24/12/2024

*PMGSY Division Handwara Celebrates 24th Foundation Day*

Handwara, December 24 – The PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana) division in Handwara marked its 24th foundation day with a celebration that highlighted its monumental contributions to rural development. Over the past two decades, the division has played a pivotal role in enhancing road infrastructure and connectivity across the region, significantly transforming the lives of local residents.

Residents of Handwara extended their congratulations to the PMGSY division for their tireless efforts in building and maintaining rural roads. Their work has not only boosted regional development but also improved the day-to-day lives of the community.

"The roads built under PMGSY have changed the way we live," said a local resident. "Students now reach schools on time, and patients can access hospitals much faster, which has been life-saving in emergencies. Moreover, the rise in land value is a testament to the economic upliftment these roads have brought to our area."

The improved road infrastructure has had far-reaching impacts. It has enabled better access to essential services, boosted the local economy, and enhanced property values. With continued focus and dedication, the PMGSY division is set to drive further development in the years to come.

This foundation day celebration stands as a reminder of the vital role that infrastructure plays in shaping thriving communities and ensuring sustainable progress.

23/12/2024

Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement, SKUAST-K, Benhama Conducts
2nd session of One Day EAP (Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme) under MSME

Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement SKUAST-K successfully concluded its second session of one day Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme sponsored by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises on “Forest Botanicals Viz-a-Viz Women Trailblazers”, today on 20th December, 2024 at Village Watlar, Ganderbal.

The program progressed by the welcome address by Dr. Sabeena Nabi, Assistant Professor/Jr. Scientist who herself is training coordinator accentuate the role a women can play as an entrepreneur to regional in particular and global economy in general. She also comprehensively provided an in-depth impression of the training program, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship initiatives in promoting self sustaining livelihoods through forest botanical startups. Women have historically played a significant role in collecting and processing forest botanicals, but their contribution have often been underpresented in the entrepreneurial sphere. However, recent trends show an increasing number of women-led startups venturing into the cultivation, processing and marketing of forest based products such as essential oils, herbal teas, cosmetics and health supplements. These startups not only cater to the booming demand for natural products but also contribute to the conservation of India’s forests by promoting sustainable harvesting practices and eco-friendly production methods. As such, women are not just business leaders but also environmental stewards, making their role in the sector both economically and ecologically vital.
The program nurtured more than 50(fifty) women participants from village Watlar who were guided and given practical knowhow regarding cultivation and marketing of forest botanicals. A series of enlightening sessions were conducted by Prof. P.A.Khan, Dr. Sabeena Nabi and Dr. Ashfaq.
In concluding remarks Dr. Sabeena Nabi wrapped up the event by extending heartfelt gratitude and gratefulness to Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. N. A. Ganai, Director Planning and Monitoring Prof. H. R. Naik, Prof. S. A. Gangoo, Dean of the Faculty of Forestry and Prof. P. A. Khan, Head Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement for their invaluable support and direction. She also extended her sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), GoI, New Delhi for sponsoring the program. Additionally, Mr. Riyaz, FCLA FBT Division, along with Mr. Tahir (DPL) FBT Division, contributed significantly and provided valuable assistance to ensure the success of the program. Also, Ms. Ishrat Malik, Ms. Khusboo, Ms. Ishrat Ashraf and Ms. Fozia volunteers from Village Watlar are duely acknowledged for being instrumental in facilitating the participation of women folk in the said training program.

23/12/2024

A delegation of BJP leaders called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 23: A delegation of BJP leaders including Sh Ravinder Raina, Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali, Thakur Randhir Singh, Mohd. Iqbal Malik and Sh Murtaza Khan called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, today.
The delegation discussed with the Lieutenant Governor various public important issues of Rajouri and Poonch districts pertaining to Jammu-Poonch Highway; implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission schemes; Degree Colleges at Peeri, Khawas and Manjakote; completion of Anas and Rajal irrigation canals; Railway project for Rajouri-Poonch; early completion of Rajouri-Thanamandi-Bafliaz road; construction and upgradation of various roads; development of tourism potential areas including Shakar Marg project etc.
The Lieutenant Governor assured the members of the delegation that appropriate action will be taken for redressal of the issues projected by them.

23/12/2024

Rana reviews winter preparedness of Jal Shakti Department

Asks for prompt response on public grievances, provisioning of additional tankers for each district

Beig Shamim Ahmed :DECEMBER 23: Amid the water crisis due to freezing temperatures in the valley, Minister for Jal Shakti Department, Javed Ahmed Rana, today convened a detailed meeting of the Department to ensure that people are provided adequate drinking water without facing any difficulties.
Bedsides the MLAs from Anantnag (West), Devsar, Kokernag and Sopore constituencies the meeting was attended by ACS, Jal Shakti Department, MD, JJM, Chief Engineers and other Engineers of the Department.
The Minister, exhorted upon the Department to evolve a robust mechanism ensuring swift response to public grievances so that these ate addressed within the shortest possible time. He also asked for doubling the number of water tankers for providing drinking water to areas facing deficit in supply. He asked them to furnish the district wise requirements so that same is authorised after ascertaining their genuineness.
On the occasion, the Minister took stock of issues raised by the MLAs concerning welfare and development of their respective areas. They brought up the concerns related to augmentation of certain water supply schemes besides improvement in daily water supply to the people of these areas. The legislators also raised the matters related to completion of some water supply schemes under JJM besides inclusion of works under AMRUT 2.0 for their areas.
The Minister directed the concerned officers for taking necessary steps to ensure early resolution of the same.
ACS, Jal Shakti Department, Shaleen Kabra, presented an overview of the current water supply scenario prevalent all over the valley. He also enumerated different steps being taken by the department to tide over the water crisis faced due to drastic reduction in discharge of water from the sources. He informed that out of 2050 schemes, 40 schemes had got affected due to recent snowfall at higher reaches or depletion of sources. He revealed that 26 of these affected schemes had been restored by the Department and 14 more are currently being looked after for restoration.
He further informed that 78 government owned and 13 private water tankers had been put into service to supply portable water to the areas where there is scarcity of the same.
Moreover, it was added that steps like embedding and insulation of exposed pipes, provisioning of 328 DG sets to overcome the eventual power cuts, diversion of raw water by making stone bunds besides establishing district and divisional level control rooms for public for resolving their water related problems in a time-bound manner are being taken up.

23/12/2024

SIA Cracks Down on “Kashmir Fight” Terror Threats Targeting Migrant Kashmiri Pandit Employees

Jammu, December 23, 2024: In a significant stride in the fight against cyber-terrorism, the State Investigation Agency (SIA), Jammu, has filed a chargesheet against key operatives behind the notorious “Kashmir Fight” a social media handle. The platform, operated by The Resistance Front (TRF)—a proscribed terrorist organization—was used to issue chilling online threats to migrant Kashmiri Pandit employees, aiming to spread fear and unrest.
In February 2024, a series of threatening posts were published on social media by the terror outfits’s social media handle, following which an investigation was initiated by SIA Jammu. During the investigation, SIA apprehended Farhaan Muzaffar Mattoo, a resident of Srinagar, for his alleged role in gathering and sharing sensitive information about targeted employees. The probe revealed that Mattoo acted as a conduit, using encrypted communication platforms to pass critical data about migrant employees to handlers based in Pakistan, who then issued threats through the “Kashmir Fight” platform.
The chargesheet also names Sheikh Sajjad Ahmad, alias Sajjad Gul, a Srinagar resident now operating from Pakistan, as the mastermind of this plot. Sajad is accused of coordinating the campaign to intimidate migrant employees and disrupt communal harmony in the UT. The exposing of terror plans to disrupt peace underscores the determination of Jammu and Kashmir Police to protect its citizenry and provide a peaceful environment to them.
The chargesheet was filed before the Hon’ble 3rd Additional Sessions Judge, Jammu, today.

23/12/2024

DC reviews functioning of District Control Room at Doda

Emphasized the importance of timely resolution of public issues and maintaining a responsive approach to ensure effective governance

DODA, DECEMBER 23: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Doda, Harvinder Singh, today conducted an inspection of the control room at DC Office Doda. During the visit, the DC Doda thoroughly reviewed the functioning of the control room and interacted with the staff to assess their preparedness and efficiency in handling public grievances and emergencies.

While interacting with the staff, the DC Doda emphasized the importance of timely resolution of public issues and maintaining a responsive approach to ensure effective governance. He appreciated the efforts of the control room team and provided necessary instructions for enhancing their operational capabilities.

Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh also listened to the grievances of several applicants who had come to the DC Office with various concerns. He assured them of prompt action and reiterated his commitment to delivering citizen-centric administration.

The DC Doda urged the public to approach the control room or the district administration for any assistance or issues, ensuring that no grievance goes unheard or unresolved.

23/12/2024

DIG SKR Anantnag visits Police District Awantipora, Reviews Security Situation & Held Operational Meeting

Directed the officers to analyze & reassess the existing strategies to prevent any potential terror incidents.

Beig Shamim Ahmed :Srinagar, December 23: Deputy Inspector General of Police SKR Anantnag, Javid Iqbal Matoo-IPS visited PD Awantipora to assess the security situation, winter preparedness and held an operational meeting with the officers of Police, Army & CAPF.

According to officials that the meeting was attended by Commander 01 Sector RR, DIG CRPF SKOR, SP Awantipora, Commanding Officer Army 42 RR, 55 RR,50 RR and 03 RR, Commanding officers of 130 BN CRPF, 185 BN CRPF, 180 BN CRPF, 110 BN CRPF and other officer of Police Awantipora.

Reports said that at the onset of the meeting, SSP Awantipora provided a detailed briefing on the security situation, operational preparedness highlighting recent crime patterns.

During the meeting, DIG SKR directed the officers to analyze & reassess the existing strategies to prevent any potential terror incidents. The meeting emphasized the importance of revisiting and reinforcing area domination. Special emphasis was laid on intensifying cordon and search operations (CASOs) & generating actionable intelligence inputs, particularly in areas near highways, to counter potential threats. The officers were directed to establish checkpoints at inter-district boundaries. DIG SKR stressed the need to keep the bad elements and terrorist associates out of circulation & to neutralize their threats effectively, he said.

The meeting concluded with a collective resolve so as to strengthen anti-terrorist operations and enhanced security measures, reads the statement.

23/12/2024

PRESS RELEASE-3

Congress, Nehru mistreated Baba Saheb on multiple occasions: Sat Sharma
Sat Sharma addresses workers’ meeting at Rajouri

Rajouri: Congress and the then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru mistreated Baba Saheb on multiple occasions. The Documents and the facts exposing the hatred of Congress for Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar are in the public domain.
This was stated by Sat Sharma, President, Bharatiya Janata Party, Jammu & Kashmir, when he along with Adv. Vibodh Gupta, party’s General Secretary addressed a meeting of party workers regarding active membership at Party Office Rajouri.
While addressing the workers’ meeting, Sat Sharma highlighted the BJP’s efforts to give honour to the chief architect of the Indian Constitution Dr. BR Ambedkar.
He said that Congress refrained from conferring the Bharat Ratna to B.R. Ambedkar for several decades while conferring the award to their own selves. The Union government backed by the BJP finally ensured the highest civilian award to the great visionary.
Sat Sharma accused the Congress of being factually opposed to Dr. Ambedkar and his vision. He said that the Congress party ensured that Dr. Ambedkar was defeated in the Lok Sabha elections more than once to end his political career and weaken his ideology.
Sharma said that Congress refrained from the display of Baba Saheb’s portrait in Parliament and refused the creation of a memorial for Ambedkar in his birthplace, Mhow. Now, the BJP created “Panchteerth” and created multiple memorials in Dr. Ambedkar’s honour and propagated his ideology and life works in the society.
He further said that the PM Modi-led government declared January 26 as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) to honour Dr Ambedkar. He added that the Congress played with the sentiments of the common masses for decades by misusing the government systems to propagate false information. Now, the people are well informed and they have rejected the divisive and deceiving politics of the Congress party.
The party president said that the BJP has won the hearts of people with its good works under the leadership of PM Modi and the family of BJP is growing every single day. He congratulated the active members of the party and asked them to ensure the propagation of the party’s ideology to the remote areas in the region.
Sat Sharma also attacked the NC party for a U-turn on its poll promises and said that they had deceived the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Vibodh Gupta spoke on the BJP’s proactive approach to the socio-economic welfare of the people living the remote areas of the region. He said that while the parties like Congress, NC, and PDP enjoyed the power corridors for decades together and amassed wealth for their future generations, they did nothing for the welfare of the people.
Dinesh Sharma, Ch. Talib, Ch Zulfikar, Iqbal Malik, Manzoor Naik, Pushpinder, Jugal Sharma, Subhash, Rajesh, Sanjay Dutt, Kapil Saryal, Abdul Qayum, Dev Raj Sharma, Bharat, Sanjay Sharma, Atam Parkash, Qaramat and others were among the senior leaders present in the meeting.

23/12/2024

23/12/2024

Political Leaders Stage Protest Outside CM’s Residence Against Reservation Policy

Srinagar, Dec 23,: Several political figures, including National Conference MP Ruhullah Mehdi, PDP leaders Waheed ur Rehman Parra and Iltija M***i, led a protest outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence in Gupkar, demanding an immediate review of the recently amended Reservation Policy in Jammu and Kashmir.

The protest, spearheaded by MP Ruhullah, focused on the alleged inequities of the new policy. Addressing the gathering, Ruhullah called for a rationalized approach to ensure fairness and equitable opportunities for all sections of society. "This policy disproportionately affects the majority population under the general category," he asserted during the demonstration.

Joining the protest were other legislators, including Sheikh Khursheed, Waheed ur Rehman Parra, and Iltija M***i, the daughter of PDP leader Mehbooba M***i. Their united stance drew widespread attention, highlighting the growing unrest over the controversial policy.

The policy, introduced earlier this year by the lieutenant governor-led administration, has been criticized for reducing the share of the general category to 40%, while increasing the reserved categories' allocation to 60%. Critics argue that this shift undermines merit and disproportionately disadvantages the majority population.

The policy has faced backlash from political leaders, student organizations, and civil society groups, all calling for its rollback.

23/12/2024

The J&K Football Team deserves congratulations for making it to the Santosh Trophy 2024 Quarterfinals.... @ Zee Tamil Jammu and Kashmir Jammu & Kashmir Football Association - Official

22/12/2024

Police constable dies of electrocution in Srinagar*

Srinagar, Dec 22 :A police constable lost his life after being electrocuted at his home in Noorbagh Srinagar, officials said.

A police officer told the news agency JKNS that a police constable, who was posted in the at Parihaspora, was repairing an electric wire at his home in Palpoora Noorbagh, Srinagar, when he suffered the fatal shock and fell.

He said he was immediately rushed to SMHS Hospital in Srinagar, but doctors declared him brought dead.

He was later identified as Zahid Manzoor Khan, son of Manzoor Ahmad, a resident of Palpora.

22/12/2024

WATER SUPPLY CRISIS DEEPENS IN KASHMIR AMID SEVERE COLD

Ahmad Ayaz, a prominent social activist and national TV debater, has raised alarm over the worsening water supply crisis in Kashmir. As harsh cold weather grips the region, the crisis has intensified, causing immense hardships for the public and underscoring the urgent need for responsive and proactive governance.

"Any administration should be driven by public interest and committed to efficient service delivery. Governance must prioritize the well-being of the people and uphold the principles of accountability and responsiveness, irrespective of who is at the helm of affairs," Ayaz stated.

Expressing concern over a noticeable decline in administrative performance following the recent Assembly elections in J&K, Ayaz observed, "During the period of direct control under the Office of the LG, officials exhibited a commendable sense of accountability. Sadly, this commitment appears to have diminished post-elections, with many government employees seemingly prioritizing political affiliations over their public service obligations."

He pointed out that under direct LG oversight, public grievances were promptly addressed, and inefficiencies were tackled through active engagement with Administrative Secretaries. "This proactive governance is now conspicuously absent, leaving the public to endure inefficiency and poor service delivery," he remarked.

Turning to the ongoing water supply crisis, Ayaz emphasized its dire impact on residents amidst the severe cold. "In such challenging conditions, the administration was expected to intensify its efforts, ensuring accountability and swift action. Instead, a lack of responsiveness has compounded public suffering. This reflects poorly on governance, especially at a time when decisive and empathetic leadership is most needed," he said.

In conclusion, Ahmad Ayaz called on the administration to reorient its focus toward public service, stressing the importance of addressing critical issues with urgency and re-establishing a culture of accountability and efficiency at all levels of governance

22/12/2024

Annual Mahotsav 2024 showcases Swadeshi Spirit & Self-Reliance: Kavinder

Jammu, Dec 22: Senior BJP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister, Kavinder Gupta today visited the Annual Mahotsav 2024 – Jammu Kashmir Ladakh (JKL), organized by LEAD at the GGM Science College Ground, Jammu.
The two-day Mahotsav, centered around the themes of Swadeshi, Swawlambhan, and Sanskriti, is a vibrant celebration of the region's rich cultural heritage, entrepreneurial zeal, and indigenous products. The event showcases the untapped potential of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh through over 100 stalls featuring local handicrafts, cuisines, and innovative startup ventures.
Speaking at the event, Kavinder Gupta lauded the efforts of LEAD in bringing together citizens, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors on a single platform. “This initiative reflects the spirit of self-reliance and the promotion of Swadeshi values, which are integral to our nation’s growth. It also provides a boost to local businesses and artisans,” he said.
He said that the Mahotsav has become a hub for community engagement, featuring cultural exhibitions, adventure activities, and competitions for students. These initiatives aim to foster active participation from all age groups, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment.
Kavinder highlighted the importance of events like Mahotsav 2024 in promoting sustainable development and inspiring self-reliance among the youth. He emphasized that nurturing entrepreneurship and showcasing the region’s cultural identity are key to driving progress and empowering communities.
The senior BJP leader reiterated BJP’s commitment to supporting such initiatives that align with the vision of an empowered and self-reliant India.

22/12/2024

Rajya Sabha MP Ghulam Ali Khatana Visits Darul Uloom Deoband

The meetings focused on the seminary’s educational legacy, its role in addressing contemporary challenges, and initiatives to further its mission in education and community welfare

Beig Shamim Ahmed : Er. Ghulam Ali Khatana, senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP, visited Darul Uloom Deoband, a historic Islamic seminary established in 1866 and renowned for its contributions to education and socio-political reform.

Khatana held discussions with Vice Chancellor Maulana M***i Abul Qasim Nomani and Pro Vice Chancellor Maulana Abdul Khaliq Madrasi. The meetings focused on the seminary’s educational legacy, its role in addressing contemporary challenges, and initiatives to further its mission in education and community welfare.

As part of the visit, Khatana toured the seminary’s historic library, which contains rare manuscripts and books dating back over 800 years. He also visited the Darul Hadith (House of Prophetic Traditions), where he interacted with students, including those from Jammu and Kashmir, discussing their academic pursuits and aspirations.

Darul Uloom Deoband, founded after the 1857 Indian Rebellion, has played a pivotal role in preserving Islamic heritage and supporting socio-political reform. Notable figures associated with the seminary include Shaikhul Hind Maulana Mahmood Hasan, Maulana Obaidullah Sindhi, Maulana Qasim Nanautavi, and Maulana Husain Ahmad Madani, who significantly contributed to India’s freedom movement and socio-political harmony.

Prominent individuals present during the visit included Dr. Raihan Akhtar Qasmi from Aligarh Muslim University, Maulana Raihan Qasmi, Advisor to the Vice Chancellor, and Maulana Abdul Malik Bijnouri, a senior faculty member of the seminary.

Khatana’s visit highlighted the seminary’s role as a cornerstone of Islamic education and its importance in fostering dialogue between tradition and modernity while strengthening national unity.