Kashmir embraces organic farming: Director of Agriculture Kashmir Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal reveals Govt's initiatives and efforts in exclusive interview

JAMMU: Kashmir, nestled in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, fertile soils, and diverse agricultural practices. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the region's economy, providing employment opportunities to a significant portion of the population. With its picturesque beauty and favorable climatic conditions, Kashmir offers conducive environment for cultivating a wide range of crops.

In recent years, Kashmir has witnessed a growing interest in organic farming practices, as farmers recognize the importance of minimizing the use of chemical inputs and promoting sustainable agriculture. This shift towards organic techniques aligns with global concerns for environmental preservation and human health, reflecting the forward-thinking approach of Kashmiri farmers.

However, the agricultural landscape in Kashmir is not without its challenges. Farmers face constraints stemming from limited agricultural land, fragmented land holdings, and a growing population, which exerts pressure on land resources. The distinct seasons in Kashmir, characterized by harsh winters and short summers, introduce additional hurdles, as erratic weather patterns can adversely affect crop yields and productivity.

Frame curriculum and design courses in accordance with the template provided by UGC under NEP -2020: CUK VC to faculty

• Chairs NEP-2020 implementation committee meetings

GANDERBAL: Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, asked the faculties of teaching departments of the varsity to frame the curriculum and courses under NEP-2020 that addresses the aspirations of the students’ community.  “CUK has to offer unique and distinctive courses to the students based on their learning ability.  The university intends enable the students to design their own courses under exit options and customize their learning experience based on their aptitude, interests, and career aspirations,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath, said while chairing the marathon NEP implementation committee meetings with the faculty members of the teaching departments, conducted on three consecutive days at the varsity.

“The CUK model curriculum shall encompass 40 to 50 per cent international dimension, 40 to 50 per cent national parity and 10 to 20 per cent regional or local significance with university uniqueness which will also prepare students for the future.” He also discussed other academic issues and pedagogical strategies to be adopted for curriculum transition with all the participants.

Children are future of our nation and they need to learn skills that will prepare them for the real world: LG Sinha

• Lt Governor interacts with the Students of Delhi Public School, Srinagar

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha interacted with the students of Delhi Public School, Srinagar, today. The Lt Governor encouraged and motivated the students to be creative, curious, innovative and always learn from the mistakes to transform the dreams into reality. Every student must follow the four Mantras in life. Knowing one's inner self, finding the inner voice, learning through practice and learning through collaboration, the Lt Governor said.

The Lt Governor impressed upon the teaching community to make the learning process engaging and collaborative, and provide the children with the space to enrich their personality and individuality. “The learning environment that exists beyond syllabus sows the seeds of curiosity, creativity and individuality in the children. Education must inculcate curiosity in young minds, provide an opportunity to their inner creativity to shine and help them to achieve their individuality,” the Lt Governor said.

Progressing JK- Tourist villages in J&K receiving huge tourist influx, sees push in rural economy, employment generation

• J&K Govts' Homestay concept succeeds in alluring huge tourist influx to rural tourist villages

JAMMU: Located 100 kilometers from Srinagar in Udhampur district, 'Panchari' a snow capped mountain surrounded by dense cedar forests, is all set to receive and captivate tourists this year with its natural magnificence and grandeur. Many admirers of Panchari compare its scenic beauty and winter snowfall with glabally acclaimed as best destination 'Gulmarg'.

"Panchari, a fascinating tourist destination abundantly blessed with natural scenic splendour and grandeur, started receiving heavy tourist rush after being declared as the first Tourist Village with Homestay facilities by the J&K government under Tourist Village Development Programme (TVDP).  The construction of vintage huts and creation of other requisite utilities in this picturesque spot has further added to its infrastructural edifice to accommodate the steeply rising tourist influx'.

Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, Founder of Kashmir World Film Festival, shares his vision for cultural unity in Kashmir and beyond: An exclusive interview with JK Monitor

JAMMU: In an exclusive online interview with Ajmer Alam Wani, Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org), Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, the founder of the International Film Festival, Kashmir World Film Festival, shared his journey of turning a decade-long dream into reality and revealed the long-standing vision behind organizing such a grand event in the picturesque valley.

For years, the idea of organizing an international film festival in Kashmir had been brewing in Khan's mind. He had discussed this ambitious concept with his close counterparts and cultural organizations, but various obstacles prevented its execution. Khan firmly believed that a place as picturesque and culturally vibrant as Kashmir deserved to host an international film festival. As someone deeply involved in theater, radio, television, and even short films, this dream held significant importance to him.

Khadi and Village Industries empower rural communities and preserve cultural heritage in Jammu and Kashmir: Insights from Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat, Vice Chairperson of J&K KVIB

JAMMU: Khadi and Village Industries hold a prominent position in the preservation and promotion of traditional arts, crafts, and cultural heritage in the region of Jammu and Kashmir. With a focus on sustainability and environmental friendliness, efforts are being made to ensure the longevity of these industries. The Jammu and Kashmir Khadi & Village Industries Board (J&K KVIB) plays a pivotal role in encouraging eco-friendly practices and minimizing the environmental impact of production processes. By adopting such practices, the board aims to ensure the sustainability of these industries.

The significance of Khadi and Village Industries extends beyond cultural preservation; they also contribute to the economic development and empowerment of rural communities not just in Jammu and Kashmir but throughout India. These sectors play vital roles in various areas, including employment generation, rural entrepreneurship, the preservation of traditional crafts and heritage, and sustainable development.

Unveiling the extraordinary journey of Refat Wani: Inspiring change and empowering lives in Kashmir's Kupwara region

JAMMU: You will definitely get inspired by this exclusive online interview conducted by Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org) , Ajmer Alam Wani with a true change-maker from the picturesque region of Kashmir, Kupwara. Refat Wani, the dynamic Chairperson of Kashmir Servers Foundation (KSF), shares her extraordinary journey and the remarkable impact her organization is making.

Kashmir Servers Foundation, comprising of passionate and peace-loving boys and girls from Kupwara, has set its sights on sustainable development and breaking the chains of poverty. Their mission is to liberate the people from the shackles of government job dependency and revolutionize their society. Through their three pivotal domains of Education, Empowerment and Livelihood, the KSF is creating a wave of transformation that promises a brighter future for all.

District Export Promotion Committee Meeting - We have to learn to live with fewer imports and more exports: DC Srinagar

SRINAGAR: With an aim to enhance the Export of Goods from Srinagar District to boost the local Economy, a meeting of District Export Promotion Committee was held under the Chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner(DC) Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad here today at Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex. General Manager DIC, Hamida Akhtar, Assistant Director, Handicrafts, Mohsina Irshad, Chief Agriculture Officer, Monohar Lal, Lead District Manager, Abdul Majid, Area Marketing Officer, Horticulture, besides Representatives from JKTPO and Craft Development Institute.

At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner took a detailed appraisal about the measures undertaken for boosting exports of various products which are being produced or manufactured in the District. A comprehensive discussion on the subject was held wherein various issues pertaining to the finalization of the District Export Action Plan were discussed.

JKTPO to organise Mega Trade Fair cum Exhibition in Srinagar in collaboration with ITPO

• Team of experts of ITPO visited Srinagar

SRINAGAR: In line with the vision of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and under the directions of Chief Secretary, Dr, Arun Kumar Mehta the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) has joined hands with India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO) to organize a mega trade fair and exhibition in Srinagar. This multi-sector event aims to foster business opportunities and facilitate networking among various stakeholders.

It is set to become the flagship event organized by JKTPO and will be held annually in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. The same shall be organized under the guidance of Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Vikramjit Singh. A team of experts from ITPO, BrijLal, GM-Arch,Krishan Kumar, DGM and Satish Kumar, Sr. Manager visited Srinagar, and surveyed multiple locations along with the officials of the JKTPO to identify the most suitable venue for the trade fair. Factors such as ease of access, central location, and other essential attributes were considered to ensure the successful implementation of this grand event.

Bhaderwah has emerged as the Lavender capital of India and Agri StartUp destination, says Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

• CSIR-IIIM organises 'One Week One Lab Campaign': Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurates 2 day Lavender Festival at Bhaderwah  

BHADERWAH: It is a moment of pride for all of us as Bhaderwah has emerged as the Lavender capital of India and Agri StartUp destination.  This was stated here today by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh while inaugurating the 2 -day Lavender festival here. CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu has organised the event as part of its 'One Week One Lab Campaign'.  

Dr Jitendra Singh described Bhaderwah as the birthplace of India's Purple Revolution and the destination of Agri-StartUps. The Minister said that the valley of Bhaderwah is the best example of development of the present progressive government at the centre which should have been celebrated much earlier, Bhaderwah being the best place for lavender cultivation in terms of land and climate.

Doda is lavender destination of the world as the area has emerged as a potential destination for Agri-tech start-ups: Dr Jitendra Singh

• "Govt is committed to double the farmer’s income & lavender production is testimony of it for giving rise to Agri-tech start-ups in J&K" 

• "The benefits of centrally sponsored schemes must reach the last man in the queue" 

DODA: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr. Jitendra Singh today said, Doda is lavender destination of the world as the area has emerged as a potential destination for Agri-tech start-ups in Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Jitendra Singh said this while chairing a review meeting to assess the developmental scenario of district Doda. 

Dr. Jitendra Singh said, Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to double the farmer’s income and lavender cultivation giving rise to Agri-tech start-ups in Jammu and Kashmir is a testimony of it. Dr. Singh complimented the district administration and farmer’s community for bringing up the area as the birth place of Lavender in India.

With greater commitment and accountability in the system, we have taken decisive steps to empower youth, women, artisans and farmers: LG Sinha

BUDGAM:  Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha visited Budgam District and addressed a public function at Beerwah Town Hall Ground, today. Addressing a large gathering, the Lt Governor lauded the PRI members and District Administration for their commitment and dedication towards the welfare of the people. “Budgam is rapidly achieving all-round development and it has been possible because of the hard work, competence, integrity and excellent coordination between PRIs and district administration,” said the Lt Governor.

The Lt Governor highlighted several infrastructure projects of unprecedented magnitude undertaken by the District Administration. “These projects are being implemented at an unprecedented speed for ease of living and to evolve a holistic strategy to transform Budgam into a hub of education and entrepreneurship,” he added. He said the transformation journey of all the districts of Jammu Kashmir over the last three years is the reflection of the resolve of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the UT Government to convert the challenges into opportunities and ushered in a new era of progress and prosperity.

Kishtwar to be North India's major 'power hub': Dr. Jitendra Singh

KISHTWAR: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar will become North India’s major "power hub" generating around 6,000 MW of power after the completion of the ongoing power projects. 

Dr Jitendra Singh who was scheduled to address two public rallies at Nagseni and Dachhan respectively, cancelled both the rallies as a mark of respect to the victims of tragic train accident in Odisha and instead convened a detailed meeting to review the progress of various Hydroelectric power projects in the Kisthwar and Doda districts. NHPC Chairman Rajiv Vishnoi, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Devansh Yadav and officials of Central and UT governments updated the Minister about the progress of the projects. 

Draw of Lots held: 428 Residential plots allotted by Srinagar Development Authority

SRINAGAR: Srinagar Development Authority today concluded the process of allotment of residential plots to the applicants and the draw-of- lots was held at SDA complex Bemina. The Draw of Lots for allotment of 428 plots was held in presence of applicants for three consecutive days from 1st to 3rd June. SDA had invited online applications for residential plots from 14th December 2022 to 15th February 2023 and it had received online applications on J&K Housing Mission portal which remained open to public for two months.

In the Draw-of-Lots held in SDA premises, SDA allotted 106 plots measuring 0.98 kanal each, 234 plots of 0.75 kanal and 88 plots of 0.50 kanal. Giving details of the allotment process, a senior SDA official said that Srinagar Development Authority had received 2786 online applicationsfor 428 plots and it was necessary to decide the successful applicants through a Draw of Lots. For 106 plots of one kanal, SDA had received 570 applications, for 234 plots of 15 marlas 970 applications were received and for 88 plots of 10 marla, SDA had received 1246 applications, he added.

Judicial Academy organizes one day sensitization workshop on ‘Animal Laws’

JAMMU: J&K Judicial Academy organized one day Sensitization Workshop on ‘Animal Laws’ for judicial officers and prosecuting officers of Jammu Province at Judicial Academy, Jammu.

The workshop was held under the patronage of Justice N Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Judicial Academy) and guidance of Justice Sindhu Sharma, Chairperson, Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy and Justice Vinod Chatterji Koul, Justice Javed Iqbal Wani and Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, members of Governing Committee.

Advisor Bhatnagar inaugurates state-of-art Cath Lab, CT Scan Unit at Ujala Cygnus Hospital, Srinagar

SRINAGAR: In a significant leap towards providing advanced healthcare services to people of Kashmir valley, Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, today inaugurated  state-of-the-art Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) and CT Scan Unit at Ujala Cygnus Super Speciality Hospital, Nowgam here. This remarkable milestone affirms the commitment of J&K Government towards providing advanced and world class medical facilities to people of the UT with constant development of medical infrastructure across J&K.

Speaking during sidelines of the event, Advisor Bhatnagar said that the present LG led administration has made remarkable strides in establishment of high class medical infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. He added that 13 Medical Colleges, 2 AIIMS, state-of-the-art Cancer Institutes, Paediatric Hospitals and other related facilities have been established in Jammu and Kashmir which has rapidly transformed the health care system in the region.

Union Joint Secretary concludes 3 day Doda visit; Interacts with PRIs, Pani Samitis, schools, district admin

• Emphasizes collective efforts for water conservation, judicious use of water resources

DODA: Exhaustive interactions with various stakeholders besides visits to Water Supply Schemes, related infrastructure marked the conclusion of three day visit of Union Joint Secretary, Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region and Central Nodal Officer (CNO) for Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA), 'Catch the Rain' (CTR), Angshuman Dey, and Gargee Sharma, Scientist D, CGWB, member of Jal Shakhti Abhiyaan, to the district.

During their visit in the district, they interacted with almost 8000 students and teachers, BDC Chairpersons, DDC Councillors, Sarpanchs, Panchs, Pani Simitis, common masses besides officers and officials of the district administration. On final day of their visit, they inspected GSRs, FHTCs, gravity lines, filter plants, Water Supply Schemes and other infrastructure under Jal Jeevan Mission. They met panchayat people at Dhar Chobia Village and also toured Jai Valley on the last day of their visit.

For millions of devotees all over the world, pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Baba Amarnath is a cherished life-long dream: LG Sinha

• Lt Governor attends Pratham Puja of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha attended the Pratham Puja to mark the ceremonial beginning of the Annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, through video conferencing today. The Lt Governor sought the blessings of Baba Amarnathji and prayed for the good health and well-being of one and all. Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board has been organising Pratham Puja at the Holy Cave on the auspicious occasion of Jyeshtha Purnima every year.

“For millions of devotees all over the world, pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Baba Amarnath is a cherished life-long dream,” said the Lt Governor. The Lt Governor said, the J&K Government is committed to ensure that the best possible arrangements are put in place for the comfort and well-being of pilgrims. “Dedicated efforts have been made in the last few years to bring about perceptible improvements in infrastructure and other facilities” he said.

12th Governing Body meeting of NHM: Mehta stresses on offering online appointments in JK Hospitals

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta today stressed on extending the facility of online appointments with doctors in the health institutions of J&K. He impressed on the health officers to work for making this service available to public within a month’s time.

Dr Mehta was speaking in the 12th Governing Body meeting of National Health Mission (NHM) attended by Principal Secretary, Jal Shakti; Commissioner Secretary, RDD; Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare; Secretary, Health; MD, NHM; Principal, GMC Srinagar/Jammu; Director, MCH&I; Director Health, Kashmir/Jammu; Director, Ayush besides others.

Srinagar city to come alive with ‘Vitasta' Cultural festival, CS takes stock of preparations for its successful conduct

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta today took stock of the arrangements for the ‘Vitasta' Cultural Festival to be organized here by the Ministry of Culture, GoI in the last week of this month.  Those who were present included ACS, Home; Principal Secretary, Education; ADGP, Security; Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Secretary, Tourism; Commissioner, SMC; Director Tourism, Kashmir; Director Colleges; VC, LCMA; Secretary, Academy of Art, Culture & Languages besides others.

Officers from Ministry of Culture, GoI also participated in the meeting through video conferencing. Dr Mehta maintained that the festival would be one of the events that is going to play a major role in promoting tourism and showcasing  our rich cultural values. He made out that the festival is not only an opportunity to showcase our culture and crafts but to exhibit our talent and immense diversity before the world.

Indian ambassador to Saudi Arabia meets Kashmir’s Industrial Associations, discuss business opportunities

• Terms the interaction as significant milestone in promotion of trade, exports

SRINAGAR: India's ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, today had an extensive interactive session with industry and trade associations of Kashmir to discuss and plan strategies towards exploring business opportunities between the regions. The session, organized by Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO), was aimed at providing a platform to foster stronger economic ties and explore mutually beneficial trade opportunities.

Managing Director, JKTPO, Khalid Jahangir, expressed gratitude to the ambassador for reaching out to the Trade and Industry partners of Jammu and Kashmir. He gave an overview about the prevailing trade scenario in the region with special reference to products having competitive advantage for export to Saudi Arabia.

Zonal Selection Camp for U-16 footballers commences in J&K

SRINAGAR: While J&K Sports Council has embarked on a mission to make the union territory of J&K the sports hub of the country; simultaneously it is also making efforts to make society prudent by way of combating the social evils with sports. In one such instance the sports activities held under the banner of My Youth My Pride in the disciplines of Tug of War and Athletics were conducted at Government Boys Higher Secondary Bishna today during which competitions for Discus throw, Shot put, 100- and 200-Meters sprint for boys and girls were organized.

The head of the institution, Rekha Rani presided over the function as the chief guest while her deputy was the guest of honour.  While addressing the participants, Rekha Rani said that it is imperative on part of our young generation to propagate the benefits of sports among their friends and family enticing more and more youth towards sports to save them from the clutches of social evils such as drug menace.

Tourism Directorate organises 3 Day ‘Home-stay Business Workshop’ at TRC Jammu

JAMMU: A three day Awareness Workshop on Homestay Capacity Building of interested Homestay Proprietors and individual homestay owners was today inaugurated here in TRC Jammu.  The workshop organised by Directorate of Tourism Jammu is being conducted under the overall supervision of Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department J&K   Syed Abid Rasheed Shah.  

The three day workshop was inaugurated by Director Tourism Jammu, Vivekanand Rai IRS along with  Sanjeev Jain, Vice Chancellor Central University of Jammu. The three days extensive Capacity Building Workshop was attended by about 80 interested Homestay stakeholders from District Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar, Jammu, Rajouri and Reasi. The Homestay Business Workshop shall set the stage for the growth of rural tourism in Jammu region, intending to empower local entrepreneurs to offer unique and authentic experiences to travelers while fostering economic development in the region.

Exclusive interview with leading IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist Dr. Sapna Khullar: Insights into assisted reproductive technologies and infertility treatment

JAMMU: In recent years, the impact of lifestyle choices on future fertility has become increasingly evident. The rise in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOD) among girls, attributed to lifestyle factors, has raised concerns about the long-term consequences. Experts have found that PCOD often originates from gut inflammation, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy home food environment.

Obesity has emerged as a major issue among adolescents, further exacerbating fertility concerns. The need to address this problem has become critical to ensure healthier reproductive outcomes. Interestingly, a growing number of male infertility cases have also been observed, a trend that was virtually nonexistent a decade or two ago. While the exact causes are still under study, potential factors such as excessive smoking, drug and alcohol use, prolonged mobile phone usage, and disrupted eating and sleeping patterns have come under scrutiny.

J&K has been a major center of Indian system of medicine since ancient times: LG Sinha

• Lt Governor addresses Consultative meeting of National Commission for Indian System of Medicine

SRINAGAR:  Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha addressed a Consultative meeting on “Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission - Heal in India, Heal by India,” organized by  National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (ISM), Ministry of AYUSH, today at University of Kashmir.  Addressing the gathering of health professionals and practitioners of ISM from across the country, the Lt Governor reiterated the commitment of the J&K Government to making the UT a hub of medical and wellness tourism and to contribute to Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Heal in India’ and ‘Heal by India’.

He said the deliberations during this important meeting will build a solid framework for exchange of ideas to promote ISM and implementation of two important components of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission – Healthcare Professional Registry and Healthcare Facility Registry in the UT. “J&K has been a major center of the Indian system of medicine since ancient times and according to Kalhana's Rajtarangini, a well developed Ayurveda hospital was functional those days. Kalhana wrote that J&K had flourishing Ayurvedic drug manufacturing units and Ayurvedic pharmacies,” said the Lt Governor.

G20 meeting and enthusiasm of all sections of society reflects aspirations of the people: LG

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha interacted with senior officials of Police and Civil Administration of Kashmir Division and commended their efforts in the successful conduct of G20 meeting in Srinagar. Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; Sh R K Goyal, ACS, Home Department; Sh Dilbag Singh, DGP; Sh RR Swain, Special DG CID; Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor; Sh Vijay Kumar, ADGP Kashmir; Sh Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and other senior officers were present.   

Credit of successful conduct of G20 meeting must go to the team of officials, which worked hard on the ground. The entire Civil and Police administration had shown excellent coordination. The transformative work done by officials shows that J&K UT is now fully prepared to host international-level events, said the Lt Governor.

Our aim is to write a new chapter in the history of J&K’s animal husbandry, agriculture and allied sector: LG Sinha

• Lt Governor addresses World Milk Day Celebration, Summer Meet for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Sector

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha addressed the World Milk Day Celebration and Summer Meet for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Sector, today. Sh Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying presided over the event organized by Animal Husbandry and Dairying Department and Agriculture Production Department of J&K UT.

Sh Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, Union Minister of State; Dr. L. Murugan, Union MoS; Ministers from different states and UTs; Sh Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lt Governor, J&K; Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Union Secretary and Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary, J&K also graced the occasion. Sh Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, while speaking on the occasion, extended his greetings to the farmers and all the stakeholders on the World Milk day.

DC Srinagar visits Yatra Transit Camp Panthachowk to oversee preparations for annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2023

SRINAGAR: In wake of forthcoming annual Shri AmarnathJi Yatra (SANJY)-2023, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad on Thursday visited Yatra Transit Camp(YTC) at Panthachowk to review the arrangements being put in place for the Yatries expected to participate in SANJY-2023.   On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the upgraded facilities made for convenience of the yatries during their temporary halt at the transit camp.

The DC was informed that all requisite measures are being taken to ensure that every necessary arrangement including facilities like drinking water, electricity, sanitation etc shall be made available at the Yatra Transit Camp well in advance before the commencement of the annual Shri AmarnathJi Yatra (SANJY)-2023.

‘Hello Kishtwar- Inter Voice Response System’ gains great popularity among masses

• Receives 4000+ Calls, Records 351 grievances in One Month; Cutting-edge facility saves both time, money of people with assured accessibility for all

KISHTWAR: The "Hello Kishtwar," an innovative Inter Voice Response System (IVRS) launched by District Administration Kishtwar under the aegis of Deputy Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav, has witnessed overwhelming success in the district. The pioneering initiative has gained immense popularity among the masses by providing a convenient platform to the citizens to voice their grievances over the phone, ultimately enhancing the overall public service delivery mechanism for the people.

 To avail themselves of this remarkable service, citizens simply need to dial 8470800900 and select the appropriate option to register their grievances with the respective officers, including the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADDC), Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), AD Food Civil Supplies & Civil Supplies (AD FCS&CA), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), and Chief Education Officer (CEO).

Union Joint Secretary holds interactive session with 7500 students, 800 teachers

• Asks them to be water conservation champions
  

DODA: Union Joint Secretary, Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region and Central Nodal Officer (CNO) for Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA) 'Catch the Rain' (CTR), Angshuman Dey, along with Scientist D, CGWB, Gargee Sharma, members of Jal Shakti Abhiyan, who are on three day visit to the district here, had an exhaustive interactive session with students of 108 Higher Secondary Schools and High Schools on day first of their visit.

The students and teachers of Govt Higher Secondary School Boys Doda and Government Higher Secondary School Girls Doda attended the session in person while students and teachers of other Higher Secondaries and High Schools participated virtually. Prior to interaction with students, the Union Joint Secretary conducted a detailed assessment of various crucial aspects of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan.

DHSK observes World No Tobacco Day, nominates prominent citizens as anti tobacco ambassadors

• Smoking at public places declining in J&K: Secretary Health

SRINAGAR: Directorate Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) observed World No Tobacco Day here yesterday in which the participants took pledge for quitting smoking and supporting the anti-tobacco campaign in Kashmir valley. To commemorate the global celebration, a grand function was organised by State Tobacco Control Unit at Government Dental College where prominent personalities including Secretary Tribal Affairs, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, renowned Doctor, Dr Sushil Razdan and International cricketers Parvez Rasool were nominated as anti-tobacco campaign ambassadors.

The function was attended by Secretary Health and Medical Education, Bhupinder Kumar, Mission Director NHM, Ayuhsi Sudhan and Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Principal Government Medical College Srinagar, Dr Masood Tanveer, Principal Government Dental College, Dr. Reyaz Farooq, Director Ayush, Dr. Mohan Singh and Dr. Tabasum Jabeen Director Family Welfare among others.

Baseline survey analytics being developed for prospective planning in J&Ks' agriculture sector

• Unabated response from farmers, 1.78 lakh farmers attend orientations till date

SRINAGAR: The participation of farmers is continuing unabated in the Kisan Sampark Abhiyan with a total of 1.78 lakh farmers participating in first six rounds of the orientations being held under the ambitious programme which began on 24th April. The sixth round was held from 29thMay to 31st May which saw overwhelming participation of farmers. The programme has covered a total of 1626 panchayats in these six rounds conducted, so far.

Pertinently, the Agriculture Production Department is currently engaged in a first of its kind, ground breaking, extensive farmer orientation exercise. Under the KISAN SAMPARK ABHIYAN, ambitious goals have been set for reaching out to every farmer in each Panchayat of the UT within the next four months. The exercise, started on April 24 under Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), will last until August 31, 2023.