JAMMU AND KASHMIR

‘No compromise on youth’s future’: Projects of non-performing PIAs will be withdrawn: Aijaz Assad

Editor January 28, 2026 0

Jammu, Jan 28: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad Wednesday reviewed the performance of Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) under the Himayat 2.0 programme.

While chairing a review meeting, he emphasised expediting skill training and employment opportunities for the youth and directed PIAs to enhance their performance besides ensuring timely achievement of targets.

He appreciated the agencies that have shown commendable results, he issued a stern warning to non-performing PIAs, asserting that no compromise would be made when it comes to the future of the youth.

He informed that under the Action Plan for FY 2025–26, the Apex Committee has approved 13 projects with a training target of 2,248 candidates, against which 1,365 candidates have already been enrolled so far.

The Secretary reviewed district-wise progress of training centres operational in Srinagar, Pulwama, Baramulla, Bandipora, Doda, Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Rajouri, Udhampur, Poonch and other locations.

He said that various skill trades, including Office Assistant, Retail Sales Assistant, General Duty Assistant, Supply Chain Executive, Front Office Assistant, Multi-Skill Technician and F&B Service Assistant, are currently being imparted through approved PIAs.

Aijaz Asad directed that projects would be withdrawn from non-performing PIAs.

He added that the training process would be closely monitored and warned that persistent non-performance could invite disciplinary action, including blacklisting.

The Secretary assured PIAs that all genuine grievances would be addressed and that the department is extending full cooperation. However, he emphasized that improved outcomes are expected.

He directed the Chief Operating Officer, Himayat, Rajneesh Gupta, to conduct field visits and inspections of training centres.

He further said that Deputy Commissioners would also inspect centres in their respective districts to assess the quality of training, facilities and infrastructure.

He underscored the programme’s significance for youth who have had to discontinue their education, stating that skill development linked with employment is vital for their socio-economic upliftment.

He added that the programme would be reviewed regularly at all levels and cautioned PIAs against any form of negligence.

Going forward, only those PIAs that successfully achieve targets under the first phase of DDU-GKY 2.0 within stipulated timelines will be entrusted with additional work, with further targets being strictly performance-based.

The meeting was attended by COO Himayat Rajneesh Gupta, Project Manager (F&PE) Sajad Chowdhary, senior officers of the department and representatives of various Project Implementation Agencies.

 

Registration for Allied and Healthcare Professionals in J&K to begin soon

JAMMU, JANUARY 28: The registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals and Institutions would begin soon in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pertinently, the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), under the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, is in the final stage of development and operationalisation of online portals for registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals and Institutions, as mandated under the NCAHP Act, 2021.

In this regard, all the eligible Allied and Healthcare Professionals in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir have been informed that the registration process shall commence shortly.

The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) has communicated with all the State and UT Allied and Healthcare Councils regarding operationalization of the NCAHP registration portal.

The State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K has taken all necessary steps to ensure timely coordination with the Commission for early rollout of the registration process.

Further, the draft regulations governing registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals, presently available on the official website of the Commission, are under finalization and are expected to be notified shortly.

All the eligible professionals and stakeholders are advised to keep their relevant documents and requisite details ready to facilitate smooth registration once the portal becomes operational. Updates regarding the launch date and registration procedure shall be communicated in due course.

It is also stated that no State Allied and Healthcare Council in India has initiated the registration process so far, as registration is to be carried out uniformly across the country in coordination with the National Commission.

For any queries, stakeholders have been asked to contact the office of the State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K at Srinagar and Jammu

Popular post
Sopore scientist gains global recognition for black hole research

Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). “About a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,” he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.“If we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,” he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeeb’s research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. “In this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,” he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. “It is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,” he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,” he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. “My parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,” he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. “Just as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.” “Young people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,” he further added.

Class 10th, 12th result on Wednesday: Govt

Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the result of class 10th and 12th examination on January 14 of, 2026 (Wednesday), minister for education Sakina Itoo said on Monday. Minister for education Sakina Itoo said the government has decided to declare the result of both the classes-10th and 12th on the same day. "We understand that students have been waiting for the results. So we decided that result of both the classes will be declared on Wednesday (January 16 of 2926)," Sakina Itoo said. She said the meeting of the Result Declaration Committee (RDC) will be convened by the Secretary JKBOE along with the members-Director School Education (DSE) Kashmir and Jammu division besides the joint secretaries as well. "We will give the administrative approval to the result instead of getting approved by the chairman," she said. The announcement comes amid the delay in appointment of chairman JKBOSE as the position is lying vacant for the last one year. "After declaration of the results, we will also appoint the permanent chairman for JKBOSE as well," education minister said. An official from JKBOSE said the class 1oth result will be declared on Wednesday morning followed by the declaration of result of class 12th students in late afternoon on the same day. As per the official figures, 94783 students- 68804 from Kashmir and 25,224 students from winter zone areas of Jammu division besides 660 students from Kargil and 95 from Leh district registered for the class 10th JKBOSE examination this year. Also, the examination for class 11th and 12th students was scheduled from November 19 and November 8 of 2025 respectively. Approximately, 81622 students – 64001 from Jammu and 17621 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 11th examination while 70117 students—56423 from Kashmir and 13694 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 12th examination.

Class 10th results soon after appointment of new Chairman: JKBOSE

'Results likely to get delayed in absence of Chairman' Jammu, Jan 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) on Wednesday said the result of the class 10th examinations will be declared soon after the appointment of the Chairman of the Board. The statement comes amid the uncertainty about the declaration of the results by JKBOSE. In an official handout issued here, JKBOSE has advised students not to pay heed to fake links and websites announcing declaration of class 10 results. "Result of class 10th will be declared within few days soon after the appointment of new Chairman," the statement reads. The JKBOSE has stated that the results of annual examination of class 10 of Kashmir valley and winter zone areas of Jammu Division are almost ready. "But its approval by Result Declaration Committee headed by BOSE Chairman is a pre- requisite before its declaration. In absence of the Chairman the results are likely to get a little delayed," it reads. The JKBOSE officials have advised the students to wait for the formal declaration on the official website of the Board- www.jkbose.nic.in. "Students should not get misled by scamesters and fake narratives circulated by some mischievous elements, whose sole aim is to create confusion in the innocent student community," the statement reads.

AIP condemns Mehbooba Mufti’s remarks, rejects profiling of religious places

Srinagar, Jan 17: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Saturday strongly condemned PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti’s statement suggesting that if religious places are to be “profiled”, the process should start with temples and Hindu priests, instead of mosques and Imams. Inam Un Nabi said AIP was categorically against profiling of any religious place, irrespective of faith or community and such statements only deepen mistrust and polarisation in society. “Let it be Masjids and Imaams or temples and priests, profiling of religious institutions is unacceptable. AIP rejects it completely. Had the issue involved only temples or priests, AIP would have shown the same resentment and protest as we do for Masjids and Imaams,” he said. The AIP spokesperson said faith is a matter of personal conscience and religious belief and it should not be dragged into a culture of surveillance or administrative interference. “We do not want policing of faith. The role of the administration is to ensure peace and law and order, not to monitor religious identity or religious spaces,” Inam Un Nabi added. He appealed to all political parties to act responsibly and avoid statements that pit one community against another, stressing that Kashmir has a long history of communal harmony which must be protected. “AIP stands for dignity, equality and justice for all. We will oppose any attempt that targets places of worship, whichever religion it belongs to,” he said.

Sports achievements reflect strength of youth: Satish Sharma

Jammu, Jan 18: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma Sunday said that the remarkable achievements of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth are a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through fair opportunities, modern infrastructure and unwavering government support. Addressing the gathering during the SRIJAN initiative conference, the Minister stated that the success of young athletes clearly demonstrates that with the right ecosystem in place, the UT youth are capable of overcoming every challenge and competing confidently at national and international platforms. Highlighting the core focus areas of the SRIJAN programme, Satish Sharma said "the initiative is playing a transformative role in strengthening the sports landscape of the Union Territory by expanding grassroots sports infrastructure across Jammu, Kashmir and other regions. This is being done by ensuring transparent, merit-based selections free from any bias; integrating sports with education and skill development; promoting greater participation of girls and enhancing inclusivity and establishing sports as a dignified and sustainable career option with viable livelihood opportunities, he said0. He reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment and said that sustained efforts were underway to create international-standard sports facilities, including modern cricket stadiums in Jammu and Srinagar. He also highlighted the strengthening of Khelo India Centres, promotion of traditional sports such as Dangal and enhanced collaboration with the Union Ministry to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a national sports hub. “As Sports Minister, I assure our athletes that the government stands firmly with them. Our focus is not only on infrastructure creation but also on nurturing talent, discipline and confidence among the youth,” he said. The Minister lauded the determination, resilience and dedication of young sportspersons, describing them as the living legacy of the SRIJAN mission. He urged them to continue training with passion, remain disciplined and dream fearlessly, assuring them of full institutional support at every step of their journey. Satish Sharma expressed hope that the conference would serve as the foundation of a new era where every talented child, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu, is provided an equal opportunity to shine on the global stage. He concluded by reiterating the government’s resolve to make sports a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, social inclusion and regional pride in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta and prominent persons from different fields and states  along with senior officers of the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also present on the occasion.

Jammu and Kashmir

View more
‘No compromise on youth’s future’: Projects of non-performing PIAs will be withdrawn: Aijaz Assad

Jammu, Jan 28: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad Wednesday reviewed the performance of Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) under the Himayat 2.0 programme. While chairing a review meeting, he emphasised expediting skill training and employment opportunities for the youth and directed PIAs to enhance their performance besides ensuring timely achievement of targets. He appreciated the agencies that have shown commendable results, he issued a stern warning to non-performing PIAs, asserting that no compromise would be made when it comes to the future of the youth. He informed that under the Action Plan for FY 2025–26, the Apex Committee has approved 13 projects with a training target of 2,248 candidates, against which 1,365 candidates have already been enrolled so far. The Secretary reviewed district-wise progress of training centres operational in Srinagar, Pulwama, Baramulla, Bandipora, Doda, Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Rajouri, Udhampur, Poonch and other locations. He said that various skill trades, including Office Assistant, Retail Sales Assistant, General Duty Assistant, Supply Chain Executive, Front Office Assistant, Multi-Skill Technician and F&B Service Assistant, are currently being imparted through approved PIAs. Aijaz Asad directed that projects would be withdrawn from non-performing PIAs. He added that the training process would be closely monitored and warned that persistent non-performance could invite disciplinary action, including blacklisting. The Secretary assured PIAs that all genuine grievances would be addressed and that the department is extending full cooperation. However, he emphasized that improved outcomes are expected. He directed the Chief Operating Officer, Himayat, Rajneesh Gupta, to conduct field visits and inspections of training centres. He further said that Deputy Commissioners would also inspect centres in their respective districts to assess the quality of training, facilities and infrastructure. He underscored the programme’s significance for youth who have had to discontinue their education, stating that skill development linked with employment is vital for their socio-economic upliftment. He added that the programme would be reviewed regularly at all levels and cautioned PIAs against any form of negligence. Going forward, only those PIAs that successfully achieve targets under the first phase of DDU-GKY 2.0 within stipulated timelines will be entrusted with additional work, with further targets being strictly performance-based. The meeting was attended by COO Himayat Rajneesh Gupta, Project Manager (F&PE) Sajad Chowdhary, senior officers of the department and representatives of various Project Implementation Agencies.   Registration for Allied and Healthcare Professionals in J&K to begin soon JAMMU, JANUARY 28: The registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals and Institutions would begin soon in Jammu and Kashmir. Pertinently, the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), under the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, is in the final stage of development and operationalisation of online portals for registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals and Institutions, as mandated under the NCAHP Act, 2021. In this regard, all the eligible Allied and Healthcare Professionals in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir have been informed that the registration process shall commence shortly. The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) has communicated with all the State and UT Allied and Healthcare Councils regarding operationalization of the NCAHP registration portal. The State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K has taken all necessary steps to ensure timely coordination with the Commission for early rollout of the registration process. Further, the draft regulations governing registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals, presently available on the official website of the Commission, are under finalization and are expected to be notified shortly. All the eligible professionals and stakeholders are advised to keep their relevant documents and requisite details ready to facilitate smooth registration once the portal becomes operational. Updates regarding the launch date and registration procedure shall be communicated in due course. It is also stated that no State Allied and Healthcare Council in India has initiated the registration process so far, as registration is to be carried out uniformly across the country in coordination with the National Commission. For any queries, stakeholders have been asked to contact the office of the State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K at Srinagar and Jammu

Editor January 28, 2026 0

BRO holds high-altitude rescue, road restoration operation at Chatergala pass

India’s response to terrorism rational, restrained, rooted in right to Self-Defence: LG Sinha

Driven by sustained strategic policy interventions, J&K's economy to register growth rate of 11%: LG Sinha

Elections represent more than present-day choices; embody duty to posterity, collective destiny, democratic resilience: LG Sinha

Jammu, Jan 25: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Sunday graced the 16th National Voters’ Day celebrations in Jammu. Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the officers to cultivate awareness among citizens regarding profound power of their franchise and motivate them to exercise it with thoughtful prudence to become a true architect of a strong, fair and flourishing India. “Every ballot cast becomes foundational to our nation's edifice. Thus, elections represent far more than present-day choices- they embody our sacred duty to posterity, to collective destiny, and to democratic resilience. The franchise reinforces accountability, transparency, and governmental responsiveness. I firmly believe a vote is the potent expression of citizen aspiration, conviction, and purpose. Jammu and Kashmir must never forget: democracy's essence lies in this-our collective will alone determine our nation's path,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that every vote holds the power to shape policies, institutions, and national direction. He said, when exercised responsibly, the ballot becomes our most potent tool for determining the nation's destiny. “India, the world's largest democracy, has reached remarkable heights while championing equality and harmony. Our democratic foundations are unmatched in depth and strength. Though many nations won freedom when we did, democracy has thrived most vigorously on Indian soil,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated youth and citizens who, after decades, received their first complete opportunity to exercise their franchise.   He also commended the Election Commission of India and the Chief Electoral Office of J&K for historic 2024 Lok Sabha and J&K Legislative Assembly elections.  “In Jammu Kashmir, trust in democracy has solidified and democratic values resonate deeply. Unprecedented electoral participation in 2024 confirms that citizens view voting as a duty, not mere right,” the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor administered the National Voters’ Day pledge to the officials and the people. The Lieutenant Governor felicitated District Election Officers from across J&K, senior officials of Civil and Police administration, Youth icons and other stakeholder departments. He also distributed Electors Photo Identity Cards among the new voters. The celebrations were marked by enthralling performances from artists, members of social organisations and youth. Their creative depictions of the importance of voting received special appreciation from the Lieutenant Governor.   The event also featured a video message from the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Shri Gyanesh Kumar. J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat, Additional Chief Secretaries- Shaleen Kabra and Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary Home Chandraker Bharti, Chief Electoral Officer J&K Sanjeev Verma, IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar besides, senior officials of Police and civil administration, prominent citizens and youth in large number were present.

Editor January 25, 2026 0

'May each one of us rise to our responsibilities with sincerity, selflessness': LG Sinha's message on 77th Republic Day

Snowfall ends drought, NH-44 restoration progressing well: CM Omar

Spiritual prosperity builds value-rooted citizens, forms foundation of strong society, resilient nation: LG Sinha

Pre-Budget consultations play crucial role in addressing key economic challenges, promoting inclusive growth: CM Omar

Srinagar, Jan 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday chaired a pre-Budget consultation meeting with key stakeholders at the Civil Secretariat Srinagar. The meeting was held to gather inputs and perspectives from various sectors ahead of the Budget 2026–27 of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javaid Ahmad Dar and Satish Sharma besides Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, ACS Tourism Ashish Chander Verma, Principal Secretary Finance Santosh D. Vaidya, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce Vikramjit Singh, Secretary Social Welfare Sarmad Hafiz, besides senior officers from other departments. During the meeting, stakeholders, including industrialists, traders, hoteliers, tour and travel operators, educationists, agriculturists, horticulturists, entrepreneurs and representatives of various business bodies presented their suggestions and inputs for consideration in the forthcoming Budget. The discussions were held as part of the ongoing preparations for the Budget 2026–27 for Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that these interactions are an integral part of the Government’s annual pre-Budget consultations, aimed at collecting feedback from diverse sectors to help shape policies and ensure effective allocation of resources. Giving a patient hearing to all participants, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah observed that pre-Budget consultations play a crucial role in addressing key economic challenges and promoting inclusive growth. He emphasised the need to present a people-friendly Budget that reflects public aspirations and sentiments. The Chief Minister further noted that suggestions received during these consultations would help in formulating a responsive and pragmatic Budget framework. He assured the participants that their inputs would be carefully examined and, wherever feasible, incorporated into the Budget 2026–27.

Editor January 23, 2026 0

Amid snowfall, control room established in Banihal Sub-Division

Traffic advisory issued amid heavy rain, snowfall in Jammu division

Vivek Bali expresses sorrow over Doda incident, seeks compassionate support for bereaved families

0 Comments