SRINAGAR/ANANTNAG/BARAMULLA/KULGAM/KUPWARA/GANDERBAL/BUDGAM: In a series of transformative initiatives, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed significant strides in urban modernization, water conservation, legal awareness, and agricultural development. Dr. Owais Ahmed, CEO of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), chaired a high-level meeting to review the implementation of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), aimed at revolutionizing Srinagar’s traffic flow and safety. Meanwhile, MLA Anantnag West flagged off a Watershed Management Campaign Van to promote water conservation, while Deputy Commissioners across Baramulla, Kupwara, Kulgam, Ganderbal, and Budgam spearheaded awareness programs on newly enacted criminal laws, emphasizing justice delivery and women’s safety. Additionally, Kupwara’s District Development Commissioner reviewed progress under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), underscoring the administration’s commitment to sustainable growth and farmer welfare. These initiatives collectively highlight J&K’s push towards modernization, legal empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
- CEO SSCL conducts reviews implementation of intelligent Traffic Management System
SRINAGAR: In a significant step towards modernizing traffic management in Srinagar, the CEO SSCL, Dr Owais Ahmed convened a meeting today at SMC Central Office Karanagar to discuss the implementation of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS). This initiative aims to enhance road safety, reduce congestion, and improve the overall traffic flow in the city.
The meeting was attended by SSP traffic Srinagar, Additional CEO SSCL, Chief Engineer SSCL and other Senior officials from SSCL to review the proposed strategies for integrating advanced technology into Srinagar’s traffic management framework. The ITMS is designed to utilize real-time data analytics, smart signaling, and automated monitoring systems to optimize traffic conditions and respond swiftly to incidents.
The CEO emphasized the importance of adopting innovative solutions to tackle urban traffic challenges. Implementing the ITMS will not only improve the efficiency of our traffic system but will also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment, he said.
- MLA Anantnag West Flags off Watershed Management Campaign Van at Block Vessu
Anantnag: In a major step towards water conservation and sustainable management of water resources, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Anantnag West Advocate Ab Majeed Larmi flagged off the Watershed Management Campaign Van today at Block Vessu of Anantnag. The initiative aims to raise awareness about responsible water usage and conservation practices among communities across various districts.
The event was attended by Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP) Anantnag, who also serves as the Project Manager for the Watershed Management Development Program; Block Development Officer (BDO) Block Vessu, along with a large gathering of farmers, civil society members and local residents.
The Watershed Management Campaign Van, which began its journey from Jammu reached Vessu Anantnag today and will now proceed to Srinagar and later to Baramulla.
Throughout its route the van will engage with communities to emphasize the importance of water conservation, soil erosion prevention and sustainable agricultural practices.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts in water conservation, calling for active collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, and the farming community. He stressed that protecting water resources is a shared responsibility that demands participation from all sections of society.
ACP Anantnag elaborated on the objectives of the Watershed Management Development Program, emphasizing its role in addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable agricultural techniques. He urged the community to take responsibility of conservation efforts to ensure a secure water future for generations to come.
BDO Vessu reiterated the significance of awareness campaigns in educating the masses about the benefits of water conservation. He encouraged local farmers and residents to adopt water-efficient practices and actively contribute to the campaign’s success.
During the event, students of various educational institutions presented skits and other cultural programmes displaying messages of watershed management and water preservation.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers and civil society members, who appreciated the initiative and pledged their support in spreading awareness within their communities.
As the campaign progresses across different districts, it is expected to further strengthen community-driven efforts towards the protection and sustainable management of water resources. Later the MLA distributed mementos and appreciation certificates among students and other stakeholders.
- DC Baramulla Reviews JK Samadhan Grievance Redressal System
Baramulla: Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, today reviewed the implementation and progress of the JK Samadhan grievance redressal portal in the district. The review focused on ensuring swift and efficient resolution of public grievances, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to transparent and accountable governance.
During the review, the DC assessed the status of grievances registered under the JK Samadhan portal and directed all concerned departments to expedite their resolution. He emphasized the need for a citizen-centric approach, urging officials to ensure that complaints are addressed within stipulated timelines to enhance public truste in governance.
The discussions covered key areas, including clearing pending grievances, strengthening departmental accountability, and increasing public awareness about the platform.
DC instructed departments to facilitate easy access to the JK Samadhan portal, particularly for residents in remote areas, ensuring that all citizens can effectively register and track their complaints.
To improve the efficiency of the system, the DC directed the designation of nodal officers within departments for close monitoring of grievance redressal. He also stressed the importance of regular reviews to assess the performance of each department in resolving issues raised by the public.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr Zahoor Ahmad Raina, General Manager District Industry Center Baramulla, Assistant Commissioner Development, SDMs of Pattan, Gulmarg Superintendenting Engineer R&B, Chief Education Officer and other senior officers from various other Departments were present during the meeting.
- District Admin B'la Organizes Awareness Programme on New Criminal Laws
Baramulla: In a significant effort to empower citizens, particularly women, with knowledge of the three newly enacted criminal laws, the District Administration Baramulla organized a comprehensive awareness programme at the Government Degree College for Boys, Baramulla.
The programme was presided by the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa and was attended by legal professionals, police officers, and a large number of women audience and students.
The event aimed to educate the public about the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, which represent a transformative shift in India’s legal framework.
The programme was designed to ensure that citizens, especially women, are well-informed about their rights and the legal protections available to them under these new laws.
During the programme, the DC emphasized the importance of legal literacy in fostering a just and equitable society and highlighted the progressive provisions in the new laws that aim to safeguard the rights of women and marginalized communities, ensuring faster justice delivery and enhanced accountability. Minga Sherpa further stressed that the new laws are not just legal reforms but a step towards building a society where justice is accessible to all.
Legal expert provided in-depth talk on the three new criminal laws replacing older laws of the Indian Evidence Act. They elaborated on the key changes, including the introduction of community service as a form of punishment, streamlined procedures for investigation and trial, and the incorporation of technology in legal processes.
A special focus was laid on how the new laws directly impact women, highlighting measures to address crimes against women more effectively, such as stricter penalties for sexual offenses, improved mechanisms for reporting crimes, and enhanced protection for victims during trials.
The session emphasized the importance of women being aware of their rights and encouraged them to actively participate in the legal process and seek justice without fear. The discussion also touched upon the role of community support in ensuring that women feel safe and empowered to report crimes.
- Kulgam Admin organizes awareness programme on New Criminal Laws
KULGAM: In a bid to educate the masses on the new three criminal laws Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, a mass awareness programme was organized by District Administration Kulgam here in the conference hall of Mini-Secretariat.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Additional Deputy Commissioner, Viqar Giri, District Programme Officer A R Das, ACR Mushtaq Lone, ACD Syed Naseer, CEO, CMO, DLO, Tehsildar Kulgam, BMOs and other District Officers attended the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need of creating awareness among the general public so that the transformative reforms will have a positive impact on all in general and specifically on the women and children. He spoke on the key changes to the existing laws and generated awareness about these changes.
He also highlighted that the new criminal laws provide a lot of protection to Women and minors through special provisions in the Act. He further said that the objective of new indigenous laws is justice oriented delivery system that should reach to every citizen. Abdul Bari, Assistant Public Prosecutor Qazigund gave a detailed talk about the three new criminal laws and how they will protect the citizens and ensure transparent & speedy justice.
Assistant LADC Basit Farooq welcomed the guests gave a detailed insight about the overarching goal of judiciary to bring a paradigm change from punitive to transparent and justice oriented approach.
- DDMA B'la Equips Field Officials with Winter Gear to Tackle Harsh Weather Challenges
Baramulla: In a significant step to ensure the well-being and efficiency of field officials working under challenging winter conditions, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Baramulla, today distributed heavy-duty winter jackets (including lowers) for officials of the Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) and Public Health Engineering (PHE) departments.
The distribution ceremony was held today at the DC office under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa who is also the Chairman of DDMA, in the presence of the officials of DDMA Baramulla.
Chairman of DDMA expressed his appreciation for the relentless efforts of the field officials and said that their dedication and hard work ensures that the public continues to receive uninterrupted services, even in the most challenging winter months.
Executive Engineers who received the winter gear expressed gratitude to the DDMA Baramulla acknowledging that the heavy-duty jackets would significantly improve their working conditions and enable them to perform their duties more efficiently.
The distribution of winter gear is aligned with DDMA Baramulla’s broader mission of disaster preparedness and response ensuring that field officials are adequately equipped to handle extreme weather conditions.
- Distt Admin Kupwara conducts awareness programmes on New Criminal Laws
KUPWARA: In a significant move to promote legal awareness, District Administration Kupwara in collaboration with the Home Department launched a comprehensive awareness campaign across the Kupwara district to inform and educate the public about the newly introduced legislations including Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023.
The main event was held at Town Hall Kupwara and was attended by Dy. SP Hq Kupwara, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, Assistant Commissioner Development, Tehsildar Kupwara and other Officers from line departments, besides, large number of stakeholders including Numberdars, Chowkidars, Anganwari Workers/Helpers, Heads of Schools, SHGs and general public were present in awareness programme.
On the occasion, resource person and officers from administration highlighted the importance and provisions of the new legislations. The officials emphasized the importance of these laws in enhancing public safety, improving the justice delivery system, and adapting to evolving technological advancements.
Similarly, awareness programme on the three newly enacted criminal laws was organized at Town Hall, Handwara and was attended by senior law enforcement officials and administrative officers including Dy. SP DAR, Ab Majid, SHO Handwara, and Naib Tehsildars.
During the session, speakers emphasized the significance of the new laws in strengthening the justice system and ensuring a more effective legal process. The awareness programme witnessed active engagement from attendees, with interactive discussions and clarifications provided on various aspects of the new legal provisions. Awareness programmes about new criminal laws were also held in Sogam, Kralpora, Tangdar and Langate.
- CU, DIPR organises confluence of various art forms 'Samanbal' prog
SRINAGAR: The Cultural Unit Kashmir of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) today organized a day-long program 'Samanbal' themed 'Laugh Riot' featuring various art forms including comedy poetry, comedy skits and folk music.
The event brought together some of the biggest stars of Kashmiri comedy, including Talha Jahangir, Nazir Josh, Mohammad Yousuf Shaheen, and Ayub Sabir, who had the audience in stitches with their hilarious comedy performances. Young folk singer Sajad Maqbool also mesmerized the audience with his soulful Kashmiri folk songs.
Meanwhile, comedy performers Bashir Kotur, Hilal Khan, Jozia Mir, and Shabir Hakak had everyone laughing with their wonderful comedy skit. Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat who was the chief guest on the occasion, appreciated the artists' performances.
Joint Director Information Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari emphasized the importance of promoting art and culture by providing a platform for young talent. He promised to continue the rich legacy of art and culture through the endeavors of the DIPR. The event was hosted by Shakeel Shan, who welcomed the guests and artists and shared plans for future programs. This event is part of the DIPR's efforts to promote art and culture in Kashmir, which have included organizing symposia, cultural programs, and awareness campaigns.
- DLSA Kupwara holds meeting with LADCs & Panel Lawyers
KUPWARA: District Legal Services Authority, Kupwara, today conducted a review meeting with its LADCs and panel lawyers today in the office chamber of Secretary DLSA Kupwara. The meeting was held under the guidance of Moneer Ahmad, Secretary District Legal Services Authority, Kupwara.
The meeting was aimed at assessment of individual performance of LADCs Kupwara, review the case files/ performance of Panel lawyers to ensure quality legal representation and adherence to legal procedure and challenges faced by the Panel Lawyer in providing legal representation to those unable to afford it.
The meeting was presided over by Secretary DLSA Kupwara with active participation of Panel Lawyers and LADCs Kupwara. During the meeting, Secretary reviewed the ongoing and recently concluded cases of the LADCs and Panel Lawyers, challenges faced by the Panel Lawyers and timely disposal of cases. During the meeting Secretary, emphasizing the DLSA’s commitment to providing quality legal aid to all eligible individuals.
Further, the lawyers were also informed about the new Legal Aid Case Management System (LSMS & LACMS) to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of legal aid service and how this will enable faster case processing, streamlining and digital record keeping and reduce the processing time.
The programmed concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and collaboration among the LADCs and panel lawyers. The DLSA Kupwara remains steadfast in its mission of ensuring access to justice for all and such review meetings play a vital role in achieving this goal.
- DDC Kupwara reviews progress under HADP
KUPWARA: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today convened a meeting of concerned officers to review the progress of various initiatives under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) in the district.
During the meeting, the DDC emphasized the need for integrated efforts across all Agriculture and allied sectors to ensure the successful implementation of HADP. The objective of the programme is to boost the overall agricultural development in Kupwara, focusing on sustainable growth, improved productivity, and better livelihoods for local farmers.
The officers present in the meeting informed the DDC about the latest status of the progress of different schemes. The progress of livestock development initiatives and the provision of modern machinery and equipment to farmers were also discussed. DDC stressed upon the officers work with added dedication and coordination to gear up the progress and ensure cent percent coverage of the schemes among the targeted beneficiaries.
She directed the concerned officers to address any bottlenecks in the execution of the schemes and work in a more coordinated manner to achieve the set targets. DDC also called for more awareness programs to educate farmers about the benefits of HADP and encouraged them to adopt modern farming practices to improve their yields and income.
She assured the officers of full support in overcoming challenges and urged them to continue their efforts to make the district a model for agricultural development in the region. The meeting was attended by CPO Kupwara, officers from Agriculture and allied departments, senior officials from different departments including agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and forestry.
- Awareness programme on New Criminal Laws organized in Ganderbal
GANDERBAL: The District Administration Ganderbal, in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Ganderbal, and District Police Ganderbal organized a mass awareness programme today to educate the public about India's newly enacted criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023.
The event, held at the Auditorium Hall of Govt. Boys Hr. Secondary School Ganderbal, was aimed at informing stakeholders about the key provisions and implications of these laws.
The programme was presided over by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, as the Chief Guest. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Gulzar Ahmad, Dy.SP HQ Aftab Bukhari, and other district officers were also present.
A large gathering, including officers, officials, lumberdars, chowkidars, and members of the general public from various villages across District Ganderbal, participated in the awareness session.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the key reforms introduced in the new laws, emphasizing that they prioritize justice over punishment and are designed to ensure speedy justice, strengthen judicial and court management systems, and enhance accessibility to justice for all.
He stressed the importance of public awareness in facilitating a smooth transition to the new legal framework. ADC provided a comprehensive overview of the three new criminal laws, elaborating on their role in protecting citizens and ensuring transparent and expeditious justice.
Dy.SP delivered an insightful presentation, explaining each law in detail. He outlined the significant changes in the existing legal framework and raised awareness about their implications.
The awareness programme was part of a broader initiative by the District Administration Ganderbal to familiarize the public with legal reforms and empower them with the knowledge to navigate the new judicial landscape effectively.
- Awareness prog cum Seminar on New Criminal Laws Held in Budgam
BUDGAM: The District Administration Budgam today organized an awareness seminar on the newly introduced criminal laws at the New Conference Hall, DC Office Budgam. The seminar was presided over by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Budgam Mehraj ud din shah
The event aimed to educate officers, legal professionals, and stakeholders on the key provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).
These new legal codes mark a significant transformation in the country’s criminal justice system, replacing the existing laws with a more structured and comprehensive legal framework.
Threadbare discussions were led by senior police officers, prosecution officials, and legal experts, covering important aspects such as fundamental changes in criminal procedures, key provisions of the new laws, the concept of FIRs, crimes against women, and cyber scams.
On the occasion, speakers elaborated on how these changes aim to improve law enforcement, streamline judicial processes, and ensure better protection of citizens’ rights. Officials and legal practitioners present at the seminar emphasised on the importance of public awareness in ensuring the effective implementation of these laws.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks, reinforcing the commitment to promote legal literacy and enhancing the efficiency of the justice system in the District.
Besides, Sr. prosecuting officer Dar Rashid, DySp Hqs, all SDPOs, DIO informatics,Tehsildar Hq, all executive magistrates ( Tehsildars), Bar President Distt court Budgam, Standing counsel Dist. Court budgam, other officers and all field level officials, eminent citizens participated in the event.