LADAKH/JAMMU: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi paid homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty on the occasion of 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Ladakh today. He also attended the Shraddhanjali Samaroh. The Prime Minister heard the Gaurav Gatha: Briefing on Kargil War by NCOs and visited Amar Sansmaran: Hut of Remembrance. He also visited the Veer Bhoomi.
The Prime Minister also witnessed the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project in Ladakh, virtually today. Shinkun La Tunnel Project consists of a 4.1 km long Twin-Tube tunnel to be constructed at around 15,800 feet on the Nimu – Padum – Darcha Road to provide all-weather connectivity to Leh.
Addressing the Shrddhanjali Samaroh, the Prime Minister said that the glorious land of Ladakh is witness to the 25th year anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. “Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us that the sacrifices made for the nation are immortal”, PM Modi remarked. Even though months, years, decades and centuries pass by, the Prime Minister underlined that the lives laid down to protect the nation’s borders cannot be erased. “The nation is forever indebted and deeply grateful to the mighty superheroes of our armed forces”, PM Modi added.
Recalling the days of Kargil war, the Prime Minister said he was fortunate to be amidst the soldiers back then, adding that he still remembers how our soldiers carried out a difficult operation at such a height. “I salute the brave sons of the country who made the supreme sacrifice to protect the motherland,” Shri Modi said.
“In Kargil, we not only won the war, we presented an incredible example of 'truth, restraint and strength”, Prime Minister Modi remarked. The Prime Minister threw light on Pakistan’s deceit at the time when India was making all efforts to maintain peace. “ Falsehood and terror were brought down to their knees by truth”, he added.
Condemning terrorism, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan has always faced defeat in the past. “Pakistan has not learnt anything from its past and has continued to wage war in the garb of terrorism and proxy wars to stay relevant,” Shri Modi continued. The Prime Minister asserted that the nefarious intentions of terrorists will never be fulfilled. “Our bravehearts will trample all the terror attempts,” he added.
“India will overcome all challenges that come in the way of development, be it Ladakh or Jammu & Kashmir”, the Prime Minister reiterated. He reminded that in a few days from now on 5th of August, the abrogation of Article 370 will complete 5 years and the Jammu & Kashmir of today is talking about a new future full of dreams. The Prime Minister gave examples of progress and mentioned holding G20 meetings in the UT, government’s focus on infrastructure development and tourism, cinema halls opening up, and tazia procession being initiated after three and a half decades. “This heaven on earth is swiftly moving in the direction of peace and prosperity”, the Prime Minister added.
Underlining the developments taking place in Ladakh, the Prime Minister said through Shinkun La Tunnel, the union territory will remain connected with the whole country throughout the year, in every season. “This tunnel will open doors of new possibilities for the development and better future of Ladakh.” Congratulating the people of Ladakh, the Prime Minister said that this tunnel will further make their lives easier as the numerous hardships faced by them due to the region’s extreme weather will be eased.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s priorities towards the people of Ladakh and mentioned making efforts personally for the safe evacuation of citizens from the Kargil region from Iran during the Covid-19 pandemic. He recalled a quarantine zone being established in Jaisalmer where they were tested before being sent to Ladakh. Underlining the government’s efforts to boost ease of living and provide more services for the people of Ladakh, the Prime Minister mentioned an approximate six-time increase in the budget from Rs 1100 crores to Rs 6000 crores in the last 5 years.
“Be it roads, electricity, water, education, power supply, employment, every direction of Ladakh is transforming”, PM Modi said, highlighting the application of holistic planning for the first time. He gave examples of more than 90 percent coverage of drinking water in Ladakh households under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the upcoming Sindhu Central University for quality higher education for the youth of Ladakh, work to establish a 4G network in the entire Ladakh region, and ongoing work for 13-kilometer long Zojila tunnel for all-weather connectivity on NH 1.
Referring to the ambitious targets for the border areas, the Prime Minister informed that the Border Road Organization (BRO) has completed more than 330 projects including Sela Tunnel, showcasing New INdia’s capabilities and direction.
Emphasizing the importance of upgrading military technologies, the Prime Minister said in the changing global scenarios, our defence force needs the latest weapons and equipment along with a modern working style and arrangements. Shri Modi said that the defence sector had felt the necessity to upgrade in the past as well, but unfortunately, this issue was not given much importance. “However, in the last 10 years, Defence reforms have been prioritized, making our forces more capable and self-reliant,” he added.
Shri Modi further said that today a major stake in defence procurement is being given to the Indian defence industry, adding that 25 per cent has been reserved for the private sector in the defence and research development budget. “As a result of these efforts, India’s defence production has crossed 1.5 lakh crore.” The Prime Minister further said that today, India is making its mark as an arms exporter as well, contrary to its past image of a country that was counted as an arms-importing one. Shri Modi expressed happiness that our force has now decided to stop importing more than 5000 weapons and military equipment.
Lauding the defence forces for the reforms in the defence sector, the Prime Minister dwelled at length on Agnipath Scheme as one of the crucial reforms. Referring to the long pending concern for the average age of the Indian focus being above the global average, the Prime Minister said that in the past there was no willpower to deal with this critical concern which is being addressed now through the Agnipath Scheme. “Purpose of Agnipath is to keep forces young and continuously battle-ready”, the Prime Minister asserted, lamenting the blatant politicization of this sensitive subject.
He criticized the past scams and past unwillingness for the modernization of the Air Force Fleet. “The truth is that the Agnipath scheme will increase the strength of the country and the country will also get capable youth. Announcements have been made to give priority to Agniveers in the private sector and paramilitary forces as well”, he said.
Rejecting the propaganda about the intention of saving pension burden as the main reason behind Agnipath Scheme, the Prime Minister reminded that pension burden of the soldiers being recruited today will come up after 30 years, therefore, this can not be the reason behind the scheme. “We have respected this decision taken by the armed forces because for us the security of the country is more important than politics”, he added.
The Prime Minister pointed out that those misleading the youth of the nation today had no regard for the armed forces in the past. Recalling the false promises made by past governments on One Rank One Pension, the Prime Minister underlined that it was the present government that implemented the scheme where ex-servicemen were given more than Rs 1.25 lakh crores. He further pointed out the neglect of past governments and said, “These are the same people who did not build a war memorial for the martyrs even after 7 decades of independence, did not provide enough bulletproof jackets to our soldiers deployed on the border and kept ignoring Kargil Vijay Diwas.”
Concluding the address, the Prime Minister said, “The victory of Kargil was not the victory of any government or any party. This victory belongs to the country, this victory is the heritage of the country. This is a festival of pride and self-respect of the country.” He saluted the brave soldiers on behalf of the entire country and conveyed his best wishes to all the countrymen on 25 years of Kargil victory.
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brig (Dr) B D Sharma, Union Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan and the Chiefs of Army Staff of the three armed forces were present on the occasion.
Background
Shinkun La Tunnel Project consists of a 4.1 km long Twin-Tube tunnel which will be constructed at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu – Padum – Darcha Road to provide all-weather connectivity to Leh. Once completed, it will be the highest tunnel in the world. Shinkun La tunnel will not only ensure swift and efficient movement of our armed forces and equipment but also foster economic and social development in Ladakh.
JAMMU: Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority, in collaboration with District Legal Services Authority, Jammu and Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu, today organized an awareness programme on "Duties of a Citizen Under the Constitution of India" at IIM Jammu.
Acting Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Justice Tashi Rabstan, was the chief guest on the occassion who was accompanied by M. K. Sharma, Principal Secretary and Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, Professor B. S. Sahai, Director, IIM Jammu, Dean Academic, Cmdr Kesavan Baskkaran, Chief Administrative Officer, IIM Jammu and Smriti Sharma, Secretary, DLSA Jammu, as well as other faculty members of the Institute were present.
The visit commenced with a comprehensive tour of the IIM Jammu, inspecting the institute’s state-of-art facilities and infrastructure that included a world-class library, e-enabled lecture rooms and well maintained administrative block. Following the campus tour, Justice Tashi Rabstan participated in a sapling plantation ceremony, symbolizing growth and a commitment towards environmental sustainability. On the occasion, the NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) Theme Song was presented/showcased.
Justice Tashi Rabstan, expressed gratitude to IIM Jammu for organizing the program, emphasizing its importance, particularly for the students. He highlighted the significance of the constitution of India, noting that it is one of the best in the world and addresses every aspect concerning Indian citizens. He urged upon the students to spend five minutes reading the preamble, which can easily be found on Google. He read the preamble, pointing out that it starts with "We, the people," and beautifully frames the objectives of political unity and integrity of the nation. He requested everyone to take two minutes to go through it to understand their duties.
Justice Tashi Rabstan also mentioned Article 51A, which details the duties of citizens and was subsequently amended. He emphasized the relevance of the topic, stating that people often forget their duties toward the nation. These duties are shared in equality, and respecting and protecting India, safeguarding its stability, and reading the Constitution are indispensable.
He mentioned that understanding and performing these duties promote appreciation for adversity, critical thinking, and meaningful contribution to society. He pointed out that it is especially important for the younger generation to understand their duty toward the nation, which includes protecting national property like gardens and monuments. He reminded everyone that damaging national property results in a loss for everyone.
Justice Tashi Rabstan encouraged everyone to read Article 51A of the Constitution. He was impressed by the state-of-the-art library, Nalanda, which is unique and first of its kind, and the smart classrooms, which are equipped with the latest technology. He urged the students to take advantage of these facilities and congratulated Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, and his team for establishing such a state-of-the-art facility in the city of Jammu.
In his welcome address, Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu, remarked that IIM Jammu, despite being a new campus, is quickly making its mark. Though considered one of the newer IIMs, it has grown rapidly since its inception by the Ministry of Education. From just 47 students, it has expanded to a community of 1,000 students, and its efforts have been recognized with a ranking of 15th among all IIMs in India in NIRF Rankings, he added.
He emphasized the importance of remembering both rights and duties as citizens of the largest democracy in the world. Often, people tend to forget their responsibilities as citizens, but contributing to nation-building is a duty shared by all. He affirmed that IIM Jammu is committed towards upholding the Constitution, adhering to the laws and policies of the country, and striving for excellence in all endeavours. He called for respect for the national flag and awareness of rights and duties as responsible citizens. He encouraged everyone to continue working together for the betterment of the nation and to strive for excellence in every pursuit.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, in his address, briefed the audience about IIM Jammu, its activities, and its mission of making responsible citizens of the country. He spoke about IIM Jammu's academic activities, its fast-paced growth in a short span of time, and the centers of excellence at the institute. He highlighted IIM Jammu's commitment towards socio-economic development, knowledge dissemination, entrepreneurship, and holistic development, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the U.T. of Jammu and Kashmir and to nation-building.
He elaborated on the institute's focus on research publications, executive education and consultancy, and outreach programs. He emphasized IIM Jammu's commitment to quality publications in A class journals. He noted that today, IIM Jammu has 1034 students, reflecting the institute's rapid growth and increasing popularity. He assured that the focus remains on maintaining high-quality education and research, ensuring that IIM Jammu continues to thrive and contribute to the nation's development.
This was followed by an insightful presentation by Mandeep Reen, Advocate (Panel Lawyers), HCLSC, Jammu, who addressed the audience on the duty of every human being to safeguard public property and avoid resorting to violence under any circumstances. She emphasized that when individuals and societies uphold these principles, both the nation and the entire society rise towards excellence.
The visit concluded with an engaging interaction session, where students and faculty had the opportunity to interact with Justice Tashi Rabstan, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the judicial system. Smriti Sharma, Secretary, DLSA Jammu, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the dignitaries and participants.
The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Anuja Akhouri, Assistant Professor, IIM Jammu. The event underscores IIM Jammu's commitment towards creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment, bridging the gap between academia and the judiciary, and nurturing future leaders who are well-versed in legal and ethical standards.
SRINAGAR: The Administrative Council which met here under chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, approved proposals for transfer of different categories of land for development of Industrial Estates in various districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Shri Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary, Shri Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor were present in the meeting. A total of 3188 kanals and 8 marlas of land has been transferred to Industries and Commerce Department for the said purpose.
The transferred land parcel includes 114 kanals and 03 marlas of land in district Kupwara, 1000 kanals of land in district Bandipora, 1094 kanals and 16 marlas of land in district Anantnag, 375 kanals and 06 marlas of land in district Pulwama, 240 kanals of land in district Baramulla and 364 kanals and 03 marlas of land in district Budgam. Development of Industrial infrastructures has been a focus area post-2019 and has been considered as main vehicle for accelerating economic activity besides providing employment.
Industries & Commerce Department has come up with various initiatives for setting up industries in the UT of J&K. In order to carry out activities effectively for attracting investment, the main requirement is to make land available to the Industries & Commerce Department. The land transferred thus, shall enable establishing Industrial Estates for overall development of the area and creation of various employment opportunities.
SRINAGAR: The Administrative Council which met here under chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, approved amendments in the Jammu and Kashmir Industrial Land Allotment Policy 2021-30.
While firming up the changes, the Industries and Commerce Department has included views and comments from stakeholders for effectiveness in updation of existing policy. Based upon feedbacks, amendments have been incorporated to elucidate different clauses of the existing policy with a view to provide simplification of processes and efficiency in land allotments. Periodic revision of lease premium, wide publicity for inviting applications, allotment of land on competitive merit basis, analysis of applicant/promoter/companies background including qualification and experience, sector specific evaluation criteria for sector specific allotments, functions and jurisdiction of land allotment committees, timelines for restoration of cancelled allotments etc have been provided in the amendments to the policy.
To encourage large investments having strategic importance to economy of UT, Government may allot land on preferential basis to mega projects viz. industrial/service sector units with minimum capital investment (excluding land and working capital) of at least Rs. 4000 crores.
The amendments shall ensure equity and transparency amongst applicants. The amendments in the Jammu & Kashmir Industrial Land Allotment Policy, 2021-30 shall help in realizing large investments and this will be a fillip to employment generation in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
JAMMU: A team of officers under the directions of Chairperson, JKRERA, Satish Chandra, and Member, Virender Singh Pathania, today conducted a thorough inspection of various real estate projects in the region to ensure compliance with the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.
The inspection team, comprising Undersecretary RERA Esha Chib, Tehsildar RERA Megha Gupta, Naib Tehsildar RERA Gias-ul-din and JE RERA Amit Verma, assessed the projects' adherence to the Act and its associated rules. The real estate projects which were inspected by the team included River Castle apartments, Tawivihar, Sidhra, Tawi Apartments, Mass Housing Building Corporation Limited, Palm Riviera, Sidhra and Royal Nest Sapphire, Kunjwani.
A primary focus of the inspection was to safeguard the interests of homebuyers besides making the builders/promoters aware about the various provisions of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 and the rules and regulations made there under. Following a surge in consumer complaints, the authority has also issued a notice to a real estate developer and directed him to register itself under Section 3(2) of the Real Estate Act.
To reiterate, all real estate projects with a land area exceeding 500 square meters or proposing to develop more than eight apartments must be registered with JKRERA. It is imperative for promoters to understand that advertising, marketing, booking, selling, or inviting purchases for any plot, apartment, or building within a planning area is strictly prohibited without prior registration with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority.
The JKRERA remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rights of homebuyers and ensuring transparency in the real estate sector. The Authority urges all real estate developers to cooperate fully with the inspection process and to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Real Estate Act.
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