Kashmir Timber Association calls on Forest Minister, suggests regulatory reforms

SRINAGAR: A delegation of Kashmir Timber Association today met Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana and discussed their concerns regarding the timber trade regulations and forest compliance in Kashmir.

The association emphasized the need for uniform policy implementation across Jammu and Kashmir, citing alleged inconsistent practices as a major hindrance to the sector's growth.

Key issues raised included inadequate technical infrastructure at checkpoints, complex licensing procedures, inconsistent E-way bill issuance, and outdated equipment.

The Minister assured the delegation of the government’s commitment towards supporting the sector and carefully considering their suggestions to enhance transparency, uniformity and trader-friendliness.

The Minister highlighted the importance of balancing timber supply and forest conservation, enforcing a robust legal framework, monitoring systems and accountability measures to oversee timber trade and prevent forest damage.

He emphasized the vital role of forests in sustaining livelihoods and assured the delegation of the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the timber trade sector. He said Government is willing to collaborate with the stakeholders to promote the growth and development of the timber trade sector in Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring community-driven forest conservation and management.

The Minister, while appreciating the suggestions of the delegation, urged them to continue their engagement with the Government for potential reforms that could benefit the sector and support livelihoods dependent on it.

• DC B’la reviews Eco-Sensitive Zone Implementation
• Directs departments to submit data for Zonal Master Plan

BARAMULLA: In order to review the implementation of Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) guidelines around protected wildlife areas in the district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, today chaired a comprehensive meeting, here.

The meeting aimed to streamline inter-departmental coordination and ensure timely formulation of the Zonal Master Plan (ZMP) in line with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) directives.

Senior officers from the Forest Department, Wildlife Protection department, Pollution Control Board, Rural Development, and other concerned departments participated in the deliberations. A detailed presentation was shared outlining the classification of activities within the ESZ including those that are permitted, regulated, and prohibited as per national policy.

Speaking on the occasion, DC underscored the importance of balancing ecological protection with sustainable development. “Our aim is to preserve the biodiversity of Baramulla while ensuring that eco-friendly development is not hindered. Departments must work in close coordination and adhere strictly to the ESZ guidelines,” he stated.

The meeting also highlighted the critical need to gather accurate and updated departmental data for the preparation of the Zonal Master Plan. In this regard, DC directed that a circular be issued to all concerned departments, instructing them to submit detailed information related to land use, infrastructure, resource extraction, and ongoing development activities falling within the designated ESZ areas.

Further, DC reviewed the structure and mandate of the ESZ Monitoring Committee, which is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the guidelines, reviewing proposals, and ensuring compliance with environmental safeguards. The committee includes representatives from government departments, environmental experts, and NGOs.

DC urged all departments to treat the preparation of the Zonal Master Plan as a priority task and ensure timely submission of inputs. He emphasized that proactive engagement, timely coordination, and strict adherence to environmental norms are essential for protecting sensitive ecosystems while aligning with the district’s long-term development goals.

• MC Baramulla establishes 05 dedicated parking facilities to ease traffic congestion in B'la Town
• Establishment of these dedicated parking zones will go a long way in relieving congestion: DC Sherpa

BARAMULLA: In an effort to address urban traffic congestion and streamline vehicular movement, Municipal Council (MC) Baramulla has developed and macadamised five dedicated parking areas across the town during the year 2024–25.

These facilities have been set up at Parking near Noor-ul-Huda Market, Parking facility in front of Government Women’s College, Parking in front of Town Square Shopping Complex, Parking near Irrigation and Flood Control Department and Dedicated Space for Sumos at Azad Gunj, with a combined capacity to accommodate around 650 vehicles, mark a crucial step towards enhancing urban mobility and providing structured parking solutions for both residents and visitors.

These parking areas open to the public use, have been developed at strategic locations in the town to ease the mounting pressure on existing roads and reduce the practice of haphazard roadside parking.

Moreover, to further address the parking issue, authorities are actively exploring a multi-level car parking project under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode. This project is envisioned to accommodate at least 1,500 vehicles in a vertical format, optimizing land use and significantly transforming urban mobility. In parallel, MC authorities are also in the process of identifying land for another ground-level parking facility near Main Chowk, one of the town’s busiest junctions, to ensure smoother movement and ease of access.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, highlighted the development as a well-planned and timely intervention to deal with the town’s increasing traffic challenges and noted that the establishment of these dedicated parking zones will go a long way in relieving congestion. 

Chief Executive Officer, Municipal Council Baramulla, Naveed Aijaz Khan, underscored the long-term benefits of the project, pointing out that the newly created parking spaces cater to the growing volume of vehicles in the town while also improving pedestrian safety and overall traffic management.

Meanwhile, administration has appealed to the public to make effective use of these spaces and cooperate in the broader mission of creating a clean, organized and commuter-friendly Baramulla.

• Entrepreneurship Mela under Mission YUVA organised at Zainapora Shopian
• DC calls upon youth to register through Mission Yuva for livelihood generation

SHOPIAN: A vibrant Entrepreneurship Mela under the flagship Mission YUVA initiative was organized today in Zainapora subdivision of the Shopian district by the Department of Employment, Shopian.

The event was graced by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta as the chief guest. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 250 young and aspiring entrepreneurs from various parts of the district.

Several departments promoting self-employment schemes including Agriculture, Horticulture, Handicrafts & Handloom, Animal Husbandry, NRLM and others had set up informative stalls which were inspected by the DC and scores of people.

Participants were briefed in detail about the benefits, eligibility criteria and modalities of various self-employment schemes. A live demonstration of the Mission YUVA mobile application and online portal was also conducted, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience in accessing scheme-related services.

DC urged youth to register under Mission YUVA and actively avail the benefits of the programme, and also assured full administrative support to the aspiring entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

As part of the mela, successful entrepreneurs from diverse sectors shared their inspiring success stories and challenges faced during their entrepreneurial journey.

Towards the conclusion of the event, three notable entrepreneurs were felicitated by the Deputy Commissioner with Mission YUVA mementos in recognition of their achievements. NRLM (National Rural Livelihood Mission) stall was awarded the Best Stall Award, based on stall quality, information delivery, and participant engagement.

A dedicated Help Desk for Mission YUVA was also set up at the venue to acquaint participants about the initiative, assist in registrations, and guide them through the use of the app and portal.

ADC, Shopian, Dr.Zakir Hussain Faaz; SDM Zainapora, Bilal Ahmad; AD Employment and other officers also attended the event.

• DC B’pora presides over district-level Entrepreneurship Mela under Mission YUVA
• Inspects stalls, interacts with youth, encourages budding entrepreneurs to become job providers

BANDIPORA: In a major initiative to foster youth entrepreneurship and promote self-employment, district administration Bandipora on Saturday organized a district-level potential Entrepreneurship Mela at Government Degree College (GDC) Sumbal under the ambit of Mission YUVA programme.

The event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, who inspected stalls set up by various government departments, and interacted with aspiring entrepreneurs and beneficiaries.

The event, aimed at spreading awareness about various government schemes and inspiring youth through successful local entrepreneurial journeys, witnessed enthusiastic participation from budding and aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and faculty members.

In his address, DC said that Mission YUVA is a flagship programme of the government, aimed at identifying, encouraging, and supporting budding entrepreneurs through handholding and financial assistance. “As part of this mission, a survey has been conducted to identify potential entrepreneurs in the district. This mela is an effort to connect them with support systems so they can transform their ideas into successful ventures,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, DC said that “Financial support is critical, and with the right push, our youth can become job providers rather than job seekers. Banks are ready to provide loans, and entrepreneurs will benefit from interest subvention and subsidies. I believe this mela will inspire new entrepreneurs to embrace the idea of self-employment and position our UT of J&K on the industrial map of the country.”

During the event, Qadri interacted with unemployed youth and encouraged them to learn from the experiences of successful entrepreneurs who were invited to share their journeys, thereby offering real-life examples of determination and achievement.

Addressing the gathering, Principal GDC Sumbal, Dr. Shabeena Iqbal Shawl, acknowledged the rising trend of youth embracing entrepreneurship and urged them not to confine their aspirations to government jobs alone, but to actively explore the vast opportunities available in the entrepreneurial landscape.

The mela featured facilitation stalls by departments including Employment, Industries, Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal and Sheep Husbandry, Fisheries, Handicrafts, Handloom, NRLM, and others. These stalls offered on-the-spot guidance, scheme awareness, and digital registration on the Mission YUVA app, assisted by designated YUVA Doots.

On the occasion, live demonstrations and interactive sessions provided participants with insights into entrepreneurship fundamentals, financial linkages, market access and digital tools.

The programme concluded with the felicitation of successful entrepreneurs from the district, in a gesture that reflects the core spirit of empowerment and encouragement envisioned under Mission YUVA.

As part of the event, the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, accompanied by Assistant Director Fisheries and Fisheries Development Officer Bandipora, flagged-off a van carrying carp fish seed for stocking in various open water bodies across the Sumbal area. This initiative is part of the Department of Fisheries' annual effort to enhance fish production and support the socio-economic upliftment of the Mahigeer (fisherfolk) community.

Among others, the event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Zaffar Husson Shawl; CAO Bandipora; ALC Bandipora, faculty members and a large gathering of youth and students.

• Entrepreneurship Mela under Mission YUVA held at Kulgam

KULGAM: A one-day potential Entrepreneurship Mela was organised on Saturday under the ambitious Mission YUVA (Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan) programme at Mini Secretariat, Kulgam.

Organized by the District Employment and Counselling Centre (DE&CC) Kulgam in collaboration with the District Administration, the event focused on the strategic framework of project YUVA, implementation modalities, and the roles and responsibilities of officers involved.

The Mela witnessed wide participation from young potential entrepreneurs, officers from various departments, representatives of financial institutions, and startup mentors.

The event was formally inaugurated by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Shopian, Altaf Ahmad Khan, who in his keynote address emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship for local economic growth and job creation. He stated that Mela marks a declaration that Kulgam’s youth are ready to lead their economic destinies.

Officers present included Assistant Commissioner Development, SDM D.H. Pora, GM DIC, Career Counselling Officer, Block Development Officers, CDPOs, Principals of GDCs, and students from different institutions. Career Counselling Officer, Manzoor Ahmad Rather presented an overview of Mission YUVA.

Subject matter experts and resource persons from the Employment Department, DIC, Agriculture, JKEDI, and successful local entrepreneurs delivered sessions on startup ideation, credit linkage, business plan development, digital marketing, and scheme implementation.

Renowned poet Bilal Kashmiri presented a nazm on self-employment and dignity of work, reflecting the essence of Mission YUVA. A symbolic Mission YUVA T-shirt was also launched by the ADDC, representing the energy and identity of aspiring entrepreneurs. Officers, Yuva Doots, and selected beneficiaries received the T-shirts.

Various departments including Employment, Industries & Commerce, KVIB, NRLM, Agriculture, Horticulture, ITI, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Fisheries, J&K Bank, and local entrepreneurs had set up stalls to provide on-spot registration, career counselling, and awareness on self-employment schemes.

A plantation drive was held within the Mini Secretariat premises to promote sustainability and green entrepreneurship.

A felicitation ceremony was also held to honour notable contributions. The award for Best Government Department Stall was given to the District Industries Centre (DIC) for its public engagement and informative presentation. The event concluded with a Q&A session, where participants interacted with experts and clarified their queries.

• DLSA Srinagar observes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

SRINAGAR: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, Saturday observed World Elder Abuse Awareness Day with deep commitment and compassion towards the elderly members of society.

The event was organized in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, Department of Social Welfare Srinagar, and Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Headquarters Delhi JK UT (NGO), a day ahead of the globally recognized date of 15th June to accommodate greater participation and ensure timely outreach to senior citizens.

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

In his address, Shabir Mujahid, former Director of Doordarshan and member of Ahata Waqar, applauded the collaborative efforts of DLSA Srinagar and other stakeholders. He highlighted the pressing need for such initiatives that address the concerns of senior citizens and promote respect, dignity, and protection for the elderly.

Abdul Gani Parray, Chairman of the Senior Citizen Council, passionately addressed the gathering and urged the community to uphold the values of care and compassion towards elder persons.

Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (South) also spoke on the occasion and elaborated on the various welfare schemes and support systems available for the senior citizen population.

Dr. Mushtaq Maqbool, a noted psychiatrist, sensitively discussed the mental health issues faced by elderly individuals and emphasized the importance of timely psychiatric support and emotional care.

One of the key highlights of the event was the organization of a Free Medical Camp, where elderly participants received general health check-ups, physiotherapy sessions, and medical consultations. This initiative aimed to ensure that the elderly continue to receive accessible and essential healthcare services.

Urba Rashid and Sehar Nazir, Legal Aid Defense Counsels of DLSA Srinagar also addressed the audience, emphasizing the significance of observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. They raised awareness about the availability of legal aid services for senior citizens and explained the functioning of the NALSA Helpline 15100, a toll-free number that provides free legal aid assistance across the country.

 Other members of Ahata Waqar also expressed their views and shared personal experiences, adding depth and emotion to the overall event.

In addition to this programme, a special awareness programme was also conducted by Para Legal Volunteers of DLSA Srinagar at Faqir Gujri, Srinagar to sensitize the local community about the issues of elder abuse, rights of senior citizens, and the availability of free legal aid.

Volunteers engaged with the elderly and their families, distributed informational pamphlets, and encouraged them to approach legal services institutions for support whenever needed.

• DLSA Bandipora organizes Fire Safety Awareness programme

BANDIPORA: To prevent fires and other accidents, protect people and property and ensure a safe environment, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Bandipora in coordination with Tehsil Legal Services Committee, Bandipora and in collaboration with Fire and Emergency Services Command Bandipora and District Bar Association Bandipora today organized a comprehensive Fire Safety Awareness Programme at District Court Complex Bandipora.

The awareness programme was held under the supervision of Khalil Ahmad Choudhary, Chairman DLSA (Pr. District and Sessions Judge) Bandipora and guidance of Amandeep Singh, Chairman TLSC (Munsiff/JMIC) Bandipora at the premises of District Court Complex Bandipora.

The programme was attended by Iqbal Ahmad Akhoon, Chief Judicial Magistrate Bandipora; Amandeep Singh, Chairman TLSC (Munsiff/JMIC) Bandipora; Sofi Feroz, President Bar Association along with Executive Body, official from District Court Bandipora, officials from Prosecution Section and DLSA Bandipora besides PLVs from DLSA Bandipora.

The primary objective of the programme was to sensitize the public on the importance of fire safety measures, preventive practices, and appropriate response mechanisms in the event of a fire emergency.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman DLSA (Pr. District & Sessions Judge) Bandipora highlighted the significance of community awareness in preventing fire-related incidents and minimizing loss of life and property. Undersigned emphasized that fire safety is not just a departmental responsibility but a collective obligation of every citizen.

Ashaq Ahmad Bhat, Officer from Fire and Emergency department Bandipora conducted live demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers, evacuation techniques, and first response actions during fire incidents. He also educated the participants about common fire hazards at homes, workplaces, and public spaces, and advised on best practices for maintaining fire safety standards.

The programme also covered legal provisions related to fire safety under various acts and regulations, aiming to make citizens aware of their legal rights and duties concerning safety compliance.

The event concluded with an interactive session where participants raised queries and received expert advice on fire prevention and legal remedies available in case of fire-related damages.

DLSA Bandipora reiterated its commitment to continue organizing such awareness programmes in future to build a safer, well-informed, and legally empowered community.

• Power Shutdown

SRINAGAR: According to the Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, in order to carry out the work of erection of 13 mtr long ST Poles of 33 KV Budgam SIDCO Tap line for 2x1.6 MVA ESIC Hospital opposite NIFT Ompora SIDCO site, shutdown of 33 KV Budgam SIDCO Tap line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at SIDCO, Railway Station Budgam shall remain off while power supply to Ompora, Housing Colony, NIFT and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM on 16 June, 2025.

Similarly to facilitate creation of 100 KVA DT at Pokhri Sazgaripora, shutdown of 33 KV Khanyar line and 33 KV Baghi Ali Mardan Khan Takanwari line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Khanyar, Rainawari and Takenwari shall remain off while power supply to Miskeenbagh, Rosebal, Hazaribagh, Kondebal, Hasnabad, Jogi Lanker, Palpora, Sangam, JLNM Hospital and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:30 AM to 04:00 PM on 16 & 18 June, 2025.

Likewise to carry out stabilization / branch cutting and necessary maintenance works, shutdown of 33 KV Nagam line shall be observed due to which  33/11KV Receiving Stations at Char-I, Char-II, Hafroo & Nagam shall remain off while power supply to Kakawring, Yousmarg, Char Town, Rakhe, ITI, Shrine, Tilsera, Alamdar Colony, Town, Badipora, Nagam, Hayatpora, Hafroo, Bizgoo, Loolipora and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM on 16 June, 2025.

Also in this connection, shutdown of 33 KV Panzan Tap line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Ranger and Panzan shall remain off while power supply to Ranger, Lalgam, Gadsatoo, Kathair Gund, Panzan and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM on 16 June, 2025.

Meanwhile, in a separate shutdown schedule issued here by KPDCL authorities, in order to carry out extension of Grid Connectivity to village KhopriHajin Gurez, shutdown of 33 KV Bandipora Gurez line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at Dawar shall remain off while power supply to Dawar, Wampora, Achoora, Markoot, Churwan and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM on 17 & 18 June, 2025.

Also, in another shutdown schedule issued by KPDCL authorities, to carry out fixing of GI Cross arms at different spots in 11 KV line in composite circuit of 33 KV Nowbugh Char-i-Sharief line and 11 KV F5 Chadoora Budgam line, shutdown of 33 KV NowbughChadoora line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Chadoora, Panzan, Ranger shall remain off while power supply to Sogam, Rapora, Dawlatpora, Panzan, Lalgam, Chadoora, Chadoora Hospital, Wathoora, Budgam and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM on 16 June, 2025.

In this connection, shutdown of 33 KV Nowbugh-Charisharief line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Charar-i-Sharief, Hafroo and Nagam shall remain off while power supply to Kakawring, Yousmarg, Charisharief, Rakhayee, ITI Charisharief, Shrine, Tilsera, Badipora, Nagam, Hayatpora, Buzgoo, Loolipora, Hafroo and adjoining areas will be affected from 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM on 16 June, 2025.

• Int’l Year of Cooperatives celebrated at Warwan with Solar Empowerment Drive

KISHTWAR: The AR Office Warwan, in collaboration with the Warwan Wonders Tourism Development Cooperative Ltd, on Saturday commemorated the International Year of Cooperatives with Solar Empowerment Drive- a landmark initiative towards sustainable development.

As part of the celebrations, solar lights, solar tool kits, and solar plates were distributed free of cost among 350 local households. The event was graced by Member Legislative Assembly Inderwal Pyare Lal Sharma as the Chief Guest, alongside SDM Dr. Mohammad Ashraf, Block Development Officer, Tehsildar and other officials of local administration.

The MLA commended the expected impact of the initiative on improving quality of life in the remote valley. A special highlight of the event was felicitation of seven women solar engineers—trained under a joint program of The Warwan Wonders Cooperative, Rajasthan-based NGO Bindi International and Kashmir-based NGO Sky Trust—by the MLA for their outstanding contribution.

Their training and participation marked a significant step forward in women-led rural innovation and employment. The MLA lauded the cooperative's vision and efforts in tackling local unemployment while promoting sustainable energy practices.

The event was held under the guidance of Deputy Registrar Cooperative Mirza Mumtaz Iqbal.

• Arrangements finalised for International Yoga Day celebration in Kathua

KATHUA: The activity plan for International Day of Yoga was finalized at a meeting of stakeholder departments held today with Additional Deputy Commissioner Vishavjeet Singh in the Chair. As per the plan, a Mega Yoga Session will be held at Sports Stadium Kathua from 6:00 AM onwards to mark the global celebration of Yoga.

Speaking at the meeting, the ADC directed the Department of AYUSH to depute qualified Yoga instructors for conducting the session. The Health Department was asked to ensure participation of its staff and trainees, along with deployment of ambulances for emergency support.

In terms of logistics and coordination, the Police and PWD Departments were entrusted with the responsibility of security and management of other logistics. The Education institutions were asked to mobilize students including NSS volunteers and NCC cadets of  local schools and Colleges for the event.

The meeting also finalized arrangements for drinking water, power supply and sanitation arrangements. The Information Department was asked for giving wide publicity to the schedule of events.

Representatives from social organizations including Art of Living, Patanjali, Bicycle for Change, and local Yoga enthusiasts also attended the meeting and assured full cooperation to the district administration in terms of public participation, awareness, and logistical support.

The meeting was attended by CPO Ranjit Thakur, District AYUSH Officer, Chief Education Officer, Executive Engineers, DYSSO, officers from Police, and representatives from Degree Colleges and other institutions were present in the meeting.

• DC Poonch reviews preparations for ‘International Yoga Day 2025’
• Directs officers to ensure all necessary arrangements for successful celebration

POONCH: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Vikas Kundal reviewed the preparations for the upcoming celebration of 'International Yoga Day' at a meeting convened today with the officers of stakeholder departments.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for close coordination among the stakeholders to ensure a seamless celebration. He urged all concerned departments to complete the necessary arrangements well in advance for the mega yoga session.

The DC further informed that similar yoga events will also be organized in Surankote and Mendhar Subdivisions. He directed SDMs of Surankote and Mendhar to ensure foolproof arrangements in their respective jurisdictions for the day.  

The meeting was attended by senior officials including ADDC Pankaj Magotra, ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, DFO, PO Poshan, SE PWD (R&B), ACD, ACP, DIO (NIC), CEO, CMO, EXEN PWD (R&B)/JPDCL/Jal Shakti, AD FCS & CA, CEO MC, along with other concerned officers and officials.

• World Blood Donor Day observed at GMC Kathua

KATHUA: To mark World Blood Donor Day, the District Red Cross Society (DRCS), in collaboration with the Blood Transfusion Department of Government Medical College Kathua, organized a Blood Donation Camp,

Additional Deputy Commissioner Vishavjeet Singh inaugurated the camp amid encouraging participation. Over 40 units of blood were donated by volunteers across permissible age groups. The initiative received active support from doctors and paramedical staff of the Medical College.  The NCC cadets from Government Degree College assisted in managing the camp.

Addressing the gathering, the ADC described blood donation as a noble and selfless act that can save countless lives. “Donating blood is one of the most powerful ways to help someone in need. There is no substitute for human blood—it is truly a gift of life,” he said. At the end, appreciation certificates were presented to the volunteer donors by the ADC as a token of gratitude for their life-saving contribution. ‎