Author: KI News

Directs extending facilities to ensure comfort & safety of devotees

GANDERBAL: Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri today conducted an extensive visit to the Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tulmulla to review preparations for the upcoming annual Kheer Bhawani Mela scheduled for June 3rd.

Div Com was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, Director Urban Local Bodies, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants), SSP Traffic Rural, ADC Ganderbal, Deputy Director Health Services Kashmir, SE PWD, SE KPDCL Ganderbal, and other senior district officers.

Div Com took a detailed stock of the ongoing arrangements to ensure a smooth and successful observance of the religious event.

During the inspection, Div Com was briefed by DC on key aspects, including sanitation, installation of mobile toilets, cleanliness of Tulmulla Nallah, and beautification measures being undertaken in and around the temple premises.

Div Com stressed on conducting special cleanliness drives and desiltation of the canal passing through the temple complex to provide an aesthetically pleasing and spiritually enriching atmosphere for the devotees.

He issued strict directions to enhance and optimize arrangements where needed, with special emphasis on sanitation, accommodation, electricity, water supply, and medical aid.

He also instructed that langars be established only at designated spots within the temple complex to ensure smooth movement and comfort of the pilgrims.

Later, Div Com chaired a high-level meeting with heads of departments and district officers, where he emphasized coordinated efforts for ensuring provision of accommodation, bedding, power, water, medical facilities, decoration of the temple, transport and shuttle services and security arrangements.

ARTO Ganderbal was directed to deploy an adequate fleet of vehicles to ferry devotees from the Central University of Kashmir (CUK) parking area to the shrine, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors.

Div Com also inspected the CUK camps at Tulmulla, where pilgrims are to be accommodated during the mela. He directed officials to ensure availability of all essential services including bedding, sanitation and security for the comfortable night stay of the devotees.

DC assured that all necessary arrangements have been augmented to ensure the smooth conduct of the mela.

Meanwhile, the Additional Superintendent of Police Ganderbal was tasked with putting in place foolproof security measures to facilitate a peaceful and safe environment for all attendees of this historic religious festival.

SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today inaugurated the State-of-the-Art Histopathology Laboratory, a dedicated Oncology Services Unit and an advanced Electroencephalography (EEG) Lab at Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial (JLNM) Hospital Rainawari here.

MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Ali Sadiq; Director Health Services Kashmir, ADC Srinagar, CMO Srinagar, Medical Superintendent JLNM Hospital, Heads of different specialities and other concerned officers were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Health Minister emphasised on the importance of accessible, quality healthcare services, stating that the Omar Abdullah-led Government is committed towards strengthening healthcare facilities and infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. “This initiative is not just about upgrading infrastructure, but having accessibility to people with timely and accurate diagnosis, improving treatment outcomes and bringing specialised medical care closer to their vicinities,” she stated.

The Minister further highlighted that this new Histopathology Lab, equipped to provide in-depth tissue analysis, will be crucial for early and accurate detection of diseases, particularly cancers. She added introduction of Oncology Services will also support patients with consultation, diagnosis, and treatment planning under a specialised framework, while the EEG Lab will bring advanced neurological diagnostic tools to the hospital, enabling better assessment and treatment of brain-related disorders.

On the sidelines of the inauguration, Minister Sakeena also held a brief meeting and reviewed the performance and functioning of the hospital.

During the meeting, the Minister emphasized on better coordination between departments and community feedback mechanisms to enhance service quality. She urged the hospital administration to ensure transparency in operations and regular training for staff to meet evolving healthcare needs.

She reiterated the need for a responsive and accountable healthcare system that prioritises patient dignity and timely treatment.

After the meeting, Sakeena Itoo also toured several critical sections of the hospital as well as wards and diagnostic laboratories. She interacted directly with patients, attendants, and frontline medical staff to gain first-hand insight into the challenges and operational dynamics of the hospital.

Later, the Minister also visited Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Srinagar and took stock of its functioning.

During the visit, Health Minister inspected Brian Stimulation Centre, Addiction Treatment Facility and other wards of the hospital.

Interacting with the doctors and other staff on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo stressed on the necessity of collaborative efforts among government bodies, educational institutions and mental health organizations to develop robust framework for mental health services across Jammu and Kashmir. She also called for proactive measures to address issues like substance abuse and psychological impact of social challenges on young minds.

SRINAGAR: Following the directions of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, Drug and Food Control Organization (DFCO), Food Safety wing has launched intensified market inspections across Srinagar City to ensure food products sold in the market are safe for consumption and adherence to hygiene standards in food establishments.

A team of the Food Safety Department, led by Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Srinagar, accompanied by Food Safety Officers conducted inspections at various markets in the City including Bemina, Momin Abad, Tengpora, Batamaloo, Exhibition Crossing and Lal Chowk.

During the market inspection, Notices were issued to as many as 7 Food Business Operators for not adhering to good storage practices. The FBO owners were also sensitized about the critical importance of adhering to proper storage practices, particularly for packaged drinking water, carbonated water/beverages, and dairy products such as milk and milk-based items. Improper storage, especially exposure to direct sunlight, can degrade product quality.

Meanwhile, All Food Business Operators (FBOs), including wholesalers and retailers, have been directed to implement corrective measures within two days to ensure that sensitive food items, including packaged drinking water, carbonated beverages, and dairy products, are not stored under direct sunlight. Compliance with storage conditions specified on product labels is mandatory to uphold food safety standards and protect public health. 

Failure to adhere to these storage requirements will result in strict enforcement action under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The Food Safety department has urged all stakeholders to cooperate in maintaining safe storage practices to ensure the highest standards of consumer safety and public health.

SRINAGAR: In a landmark achievement for healthcare in the region, Nephro-Urological departments at Superspeciality Hospital, Government Medical College Srinagar (GMC Srinagar), have successfully performed its first live-related kidney transplantation after recommencing the program.

The milestone marks a new era of hope for patients dependent on dialysis and awaiting transplants.

A patient in his 50s suffering from End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) received a kidney from his wife at GMC Srinagar. The transplant was conducted free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) Golden Card Scheme, making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for those in need.

Secretary Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare, J&K UT, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, commended the achievement, saying, “This successful kidney transplant represents a quantum leap in our healthcare capabilities. The UT administration is committed to making advanced medical care accessible to all citizens, and this achievement at GMC Srinagar perfectly aligns with our vision of quality healthcare for all under Ayushman Bharat.”

Prof (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/Dean of GMC Srinagar while expressing her delight stated, “The successful resumption of live-related kidney transplantation at our center is a testament to the dedication of our urology, nephrology and anaesthesia teams and the support of the administration.”

Prof. (Dr.) Syed Sajjad Nazir, HOD Urology and Chairman Kidney Transplantation, while expressing his pleasure at the successful transplant said, “With the revival of live-related kidney transplants at GMC Srinagar, patients with chronic kidney disease now have renewed hope. The availability of this life-saving procedure locally, coupled with financial coverage under Ayushman Bharat, ensures that more lives can be saved without the added burden of exorbitant costs.”

The success of the transplant program is attributed to the collaborative efforts of various departments, including Urology, Nephrology, Anaesthesia, and the Operation Theatre staff.

Dr. Tajamul H. Mir, HOD Nephrology and Vice-Chairman Kidney Transplantation, praised the collaborative efforts of all involved in restarting the program, highlighting the significant reduction in the burden on patients who previously had to seek transplants outside the region.

GMC Srinagar extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to all involved, especially Prof (Dr) Shailesh Raina, Director of Kidney Transplantation at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, for his invaluable guidance and support in restarting the program.

With this successful transplant, GMC Srinagar’s Superspeciality Hospital has re-established itself as a centre of excellence for renal care in North India. The hospital plans to expand its transplant program to benefit more patients suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease.

Ganderbal: Central University of Kashmir (CUK) has announced the commencement of the admission process for its Post-Graduate (PG) programmes for the academic session 2025.

The candidates who have appeared in the CUET-PG-2025 and wish to seek admission to any of the University’s PG courses are invited to register online.

The online registration portal will be active from 20th May 2025 (3:00 PM) to 10th June 2025 and the admissions will be strictly based on CUET-PG-2025 scores/merit.

Interested applicants can access the registration link and complete details on the University’s dedicated admission portal: https://cukashmircuet.samarth.edu.in/pg/

The PG Programmes include M.A. in English, Mass Communication & Journalism, Economics, Urdu, Political Science, Islamic Studies, Master of Laws (LLM), Master of Commerce (M.Com), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Physical Education (M.P.Ed.), M.Sc. in Zoology, Biotechnology, Physics, Mathematics, Botany, Chemistry (Lateral Entry options available where specified), Integrated B.Ed.-M.Ed.

Candidates must ensure that the programme preferences selected during registration align with those indicated in their CUET-PG-2025 application.

For further queries, applicants may contact the Directorate of Admissions at +91 7889593153 during office hours (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM) or can check the university website www.cukashmir.ac.in.

SRINAGAR: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, organized an awareness programme on Monday at Central Jail Srinagar under the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC) Campaign in Jails of India for Filing Special Leave Petitions (SLPs).

The programme was held under the chairmanship of Tasleem Arief, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar, and under the supervision of Sajad Ur Rehman, Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar

Primary objective of the campaign was to inform jail inmates about their right to access justice through legal aid, specifically in relation to filing Special Leave Petitions (SLPs) before the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

The programme aimed to identify and support convicts who remain unrepresented despite having valid grounds for appeal and to educate them on the legal remedies available through the SCLSC.

Tasneem Kausar, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, delivered a comprehensive session highlighting the importance of legal aid for marginalised inmates. She discussed the criteria for approaching the Supreme Court through SLPs and explained the role of the SCLSC in bridging the gap between convicts and justice. She encouraged inmates to seek assistance and exercise their legal rights without hesitation.

Minhaaj Ur Rasool and Ayesha, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsels of DLSA Srinagar ,addressed the inmates on the procedural aspects of filing SLPs. They simplified the process, explained eligibility conditions, and provided step-by-step guidance to help inmates understand how to benefit from the legal aid system.

The programme witnessed the presence and active involvement of officials from prison legal clinics, jail authorities, and para-legal volunteers. These stakeholders were sensitized about the objectives of the campaign and the critical role they play in ensuring that no eligible convict is left without representation.

Jail authorities and Para Legal Volunteers of Prison Legal Aid Clinic, at Central Jail Srinagar, were urged to identify and notify the DLSA about inmates potentially eligible for remission of sentence, premature release, or those who may have grounds for filing SLPs. Para-legal volunteers were encouraged to maintain regular engagement with inmates to facilitate access to justice.

This awareness initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of the legal services institutions to ensure that justice is not denied due to a lack of knowledge or representation. The collaborative efforts of the judiciary, legal aid counsels, prison officials, and volunteers continue to uphold the principle of ‘Access to Justice for All,’ even within correctional institutions. 

SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has announced a series of scheduled power shutdowns across various areas of Kashmir to facilitate maintenance and upgradation works on the power infrastructure.

According to the Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, in order to carry out work related to evacuation of power from GIS Harwan, shutdown of 33 KV Burzhama Tap of 33 KV Habak-Zakura Burzhama line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at Burzhama shall remain off while power supply to Burzhama, Mulfaq, Gasoo, Chaterhama, Khimber and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM on 27 & 29 May and 01 June, 2025.

Also to carry out maintenance work of 33 KV O/H Centaur lien (Backup line), the shutdown of 33KV Cheshmashahi-BB Cantt Tap line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at BB Cantt shall remain off while power supply to BB Cantt will be affected from 10:00 AM to 04:30 PM on 28 May, 2025.

Similarly, to facilitate repairing on 33 KV Isolator and other stabilisation works atthe Receiving Station Kurhama, the shutdown of 33KV Badampora-Kurhama line shall be observed, due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Kurhama, Dab, GCET, Sainik School shall remain off while power supply to Kurhama, Youngpora, Dab, Sainik School, GCET Safapora, Baroosa, Baba Salina, Wakura, Rabitar, Kondbal and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM on 28 May, 2025.

Moreover, to carry out upgradation/stabilisation of 33 KV Alasteng Nagbal line, the shutdown of 33KV Alasteng Nagbal line shall be observe,d due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Alasteng, Nagbal, Gadoora, Tulbagh shall remain off while power supply to Shuhama, Bakura, Darend, Nagbal, Fatehpora, Gadoora, Tulbagh, Chunduna, Shairpathri, Pandach and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM on 29 May, 2025.

Also in this connection, the shutdown of 33KV Alasteng Zakura (Pertains to STD-1st) shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Gulabagh, Ahmad Nagar, Umarhair shall remain off while power supply to Pathan Colony, Gulabagh, Mir Mohalla, Umarhair, Nowbugh, Ahmad Nagar, 90 ft road, Khalmullah and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM on 29 May, 2025.

Further to facilitate Upgradation of 33 KV Wanpoh SICOP line from 0.1 ACSR to 0.2 ACSR, the shutdown of 33KV Wanpoh SICOP line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Shamsipora, SICOP, Zirpara, Veer and Cheeniwadder shall remain off while power supply to Shamsipora, Jablipora, Zirpara, Veer, Srigufwara, SICOP areas and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM on 28 & 29 May and 02 June, 2025.

Srinagar: The Zonal Police Headquarters (ZPHQ) Kashmir today organized a one-day training and awareness programme on Inclusive Policing for Persons with Disabilities, with a special focus on the newly introduced criminal laws. 

The session was held at the Police Control Room, Kashmir, in collaboration with expert resource persons from iProbono India and the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.

The programme was coordinated by Shri Jaasir Ashraf Mir, Senior Prosecuting Officer, ZPHQ Kashmir. It began with a welcome address by Sleet Shah, JKPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police Headquarters, Srinagar.

The session featured insights from distinguished speakers, including Iqbal Lone, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, J&K Kaurvaki Mohanty (Program Manager, iProbono India); Shrutika Pandey (Program Officer, iProbono India); and Advocate Hasnain Khawja.

A total of 72 police personnel from across the Kashmir Valley participated in the training. The programme aimed to sensitise law enforcement personnel to the rights and needs of persons with disabilities, with a focus on their duties under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Speakers emphasized the significance of inclusive practices in policing, highlighting special procedural safeguards, legal reforms, and the application of new criminal law provisions while dealing with persons with disabilities—as victims, witnesses, or accused. Emphasis was also placed on fostering sensitivity, autonomy, and respect for the dignity of persons with disabilities within the policing framework.

On behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Jaasir Ashraf Mir extended a vote of thanks to all the participants and resource persons for their active involvement and valuable contributions.

Srinagar: A delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), led by Dr. M A Alim, Chairman, CII J&K UT Council, along with Khurshid Dar, Head, CII J&K UT Council met Nitish Rajora, Director of Information, Jammu & Kashmir, to explore collaborative opportunities for enhancing the UT’s global image and fostering economic growth. 

During the meeting, Dr. Alim briefed the Director about CII’s initiatives aimed at strengthening Jammu & Kashmir’s reputation as an attractive investment and tourism destination. He highlighted plans for a series of events designed to build confidence among potential investors and visitors, contributing to the region’s socio-economic development. 

Rajora appreciated CII’s efforts and expressed his openness to receiving formal proposals for joint initiatives. He emphasized that the Department of Information is ready to collaborate with CII, along with the Department of Industries & Commerce and the Department of Tourism, to organize impactful events that showcase J&K’s potential. 

Additionally, Dr. Alim shared insights into CII’s participation in prestigious global platforms like the Cannes Film Festival and proposed that Jammu & Kashmir could leverage such international events to promote its rich cultural heritage, film tourism, and business opportunities in the future. 

The discussion concluded with a mutual agreement to work closely on actionable strategies to position J&K as a premier destination for trade, tourism, and investment.

SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioner (DC), Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat today chaired a meeting of officers at Meeting Hall of the DC Office here to review the functioning and progress of revenue related matters.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz-Ul-Aziz; Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Umar Gulzar, all Tehsildars and other senior functionaries of the Revenue department of the district.

The meeting aimed to review and enhance the functioning of the District’s Revenue Department, focusing on the expediting process of digitisation of revenue records and the timely delivery of public services.

At the outset, DC took a detailed review of the Revenue sector with special focus on scanning and digitisation of Mussavis and other revenue-related records of all villages of the district.

On the occasion, DC directed the officials of Revenue Department to widen their role and perform duties with an objective to provide better services to the people in a time bound manner as per the guidelines under Public Service Guarantee Act.

Dr Bilal stressed on further improve and strengthen the functioning of the Revenue setup in the district. He said that the working approach of the Revenue officials must lead to making a positive contribution to society. He called for enhanced transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the delivery of public services under the Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA).

DC also asked the Revenue officers to actively monitor the process of revenue related activities in respective jurisdictions on a periodic basis, so that people may not face any inconvenience while availing revenue related services.

He also underscored the district administration’s commitment to modernising Revenue records, enhancing public service delivery, and ensuring the protection of government land through coordinated efforts and infrastructure development.