SRINAGAR: In a powerful example of inclusive development and national service, Simari, a border village in Karnah Valley, Jammu & Kashmir, has been fully electrified and LPG-enabled through a joint initiative of the Indian Army’s Vajr Division and Aseem Foundation, under the aegis of Chinar Corps.
Situated along the Line of Control, with one half of the village across in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Simari holds deep strategic and democratic importance as Polling Booth No. 1 of India. Until now, the villagers struggled with limited power and primitive cooking facilities. This project has transformed 53 households with solar microgrids and clean cooking LPG kits, significantly improving the quality of life.
The initiative is dedicated in the memory of Col SantoshMahadik, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, who laid down his life in service of the Nation. In a solemn tribute, Col Mahadik’s mother, Mrs KalindaMahadik, Commander Tangdhar Brigade and Mr SarangGosavi, Founder & MD of Aseem foundation, jointly inaugurated the solar electrification system in Simari on 14th April 2025.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of large border population including women, children, local elders, along with media representatives and civil dignitaries. The emotionally charged gathering reflected a deep sense of pride, gratitude, and unity, as light brought happiness to homes and a soldier’s legacy was honoured at the Nation's edge.
This initiative is a testament to the Indian Army’s steadfast commitment to border area development, in alignment with the Government of India’s Vibrant Villages Programme. It reinforces the Army’s role not just as defenders of the nation, but as partners in progress-bringing light, dignity, and opportunity to even the remotest frontiers of India.
Chinar Corps in cooperation with theAseem Foundation, through its sustained efforts in rural electrification, clean energy adoption, and community development, has been playing a vital role in empowering border communities across Jammu & Kashmir. Its partnership in this project reflects a deep commitment to Nation-building through innovation, inclusion and local engagement.
JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today virtually inaugurated the Manufacturing Unit of Superior Polymer India Private Limited at Kathua. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Superior Group of Industries and the members of Superior Polymer India Private Limited on their new venture and conveyed his best wishes.
He said the commencement of this greenfield project is an important milestone, promising a positive impact on the local economy and employment generation, and a significant push to the industrial development of the region. “UT's manufacturing ecosystem is growing and today's project dedicated to the industrial development will give momentum to the mission of Aatmanirbhar J&K,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, we are committed to the advancement of the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir. “We have ensured a workforce prepared for industrial jobs. We have empowered marginalized sections of the society to broaden the skilled workforce. Our Handloom and Handicraft exports surged after building the industrial ecosystem,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said, the progressive Industrial Policy and several key interventions in the last few years have strengthened investors’ confidence in the UT of J&K and attracted private investment. “We have been successful in creating a conducive environment for the growth of industries, enabling overall development. Our efforts are now yielding positive dividends with many industrial units started their operations and many more investment proposals are in the pipeline,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The unit set up with an investment of Rs 75 crore will generate hundreds of employment opportunities. Shri Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce Department; Dr Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu; Shri Pradeep Agrawal Chairman, Superior Group of Industries; Shri Vishal Agrawal, Vice Chairman, Shri Ashish Sethi, CEO, Dr Sunil Kumar Mishra, Chief Human Resource Officer, and other members of Superior Group of Industries and Superior Polymer India Private Limited were present. Shri Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Kathua along with other officials also joined through virtual mode.
JAMMU: The Fire and Emergency Services Department today observed Fire Service Day, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. A solemn ceremony was held here at Fire & Emergency Services Headquarters Gandhi Nagar, where officers and jawans paid homage to the martyrs of the 1944 Bombay Dock Explosion and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety.
The observance began with a solemn wreath laying ceremony at the Martyrs’ Memorial, where the Director of Fire and Emergency Services, along with senior officers and jawans, paid floral tributes to the brave firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Two minutes silence was observed in their honour, and the ceremonial salute was offered as a mark of respect. The event served as a poignant reminder of the selfless courage and sacrifice made by fire service personnel in protecting lives and property, often at great personal risk.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director of Fire and Emergency Services J&K (ADGP) Alok Kumar highlighted the department’s growing capabilities, rapid response readiness, and ongoing modernization efforts. “We are proud to say that our force is not only ready for prompt and quick response in case of any emergency with advanced equipment and training but also deeply committed to promote a culture of fire safety across all sectors of society,” the Director stated.
Alok Kumar further highlighted the department’s focused initiative regarding fire safety public awareness programmes being conducted regularly and continuously in educational, healthcare institutions, industrial units and other establishments under “Har Ghar Fire Fighter” programme since August 2022 throughout the UT of J&K.
The programmes aim to educate students, teachers, medical staff, and support personnel on fire prevention, safe evacuation procedures, and first aid response actions in case of a fire to act as first responders in case of domestic fires. The Director informed that under this programme the department, upto ending March 2025, has covered 3949 educational institutions, 1057 health institutions, 2555 other establishments by conducting 7551 public awareness programmes in which 8.23 lac persons have been given training of fire prevention, protection and first aid firefighting.
This year’s theme, “Unite to Ignite a Fire Safe India,” emphasizes collective responsibility and community involvement in fire prevention. As part of the Fire Service Week (14–20 April), the department launched several public engagement initiatives, including, the release of a fire safety documentary showcasing real-life firefighting missions and the role of emergency services, release of posters, banners and handbills for public awareness, action plan for awareness lectures, essay writing, painting competitions, health checkups for jawans and public and medical first aid training programme.
The Director urged citizens to partner with the department in building a fire-safe India by practicing basic safety measures, reporting hazards promptly, and participating in awareness activities. “Our strength lies in unity. Together, we can prevent fires before they start,” he added. The Fire and Emergency Services remains committed to its mission—to save lives, protect property, and serve with honour under the motto “We Serve to SAVE”. The Fire Service Day was also observed at Fire & Emergency Range Headquarters Srinagar and all Command /District Headquarters where all the Command Officers presided over the function and paid rich floral tributes to the martyrs.
JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today interacted with the Heads of Government Medical Colleges, and Medical Institutions from across J&K at Raj Bhawan. On the occasion, Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences shared his expert insights on proactive strategies and adopting a healthy lifestyle to improve liver health.
The Lieutenant Governor advised all the stakeholders to work in close coordination with Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin along with the Government Medical Colleges, AIIMS, SKIMS and other medical institutions of the UT to devise a well-planned strategy for the prevention of liver-related diseases.
Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Health and Medical Education; Prof. Dr Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director, AIIMS Jammu; Principals, HoDs and Medical Superintendents from Government Medical Colleges, SKIMS, and other medical institutions and senior officials of Health and Medical Education department, attended the meeting, in person and through virtual mode.
JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today attended the ‘Tawi Aarti’ and ‘Baisakhi Mela’ at Tawi Riverfront Jammu. The Lieutenant Governor sought the blessings of Suryaputri River Tawi and prayed for peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being of all. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations to the Jammu Municipal Corporation, Jammu Smart City Limited, Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council, Tourism Department, Acharyas, Archakas, young volunteers, and everyone associated with the grand event.
The Lieutenant Governor said, the ceremonial worship 'Tawi Aarti' expressing gratitude and reverence on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi is truly a divine spectacle. He said, the living tradition in the city of temples offers a powerful spiritual experience. “Tawi river is connected to the soul of Jammu and its spiritual journey and this river is the living form of our consciousness and thoughts. It is a cultural idea and spiritual flow and with the beginning of Aarti at Tawi Riverfront, efforts are being made to awaken our ancient culture.
Tawi Aarti, the sacred ceremony, is the medium to express our ancient values and ideals on the banks of this sacred river. Today's grand Aarti has started a new era,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor called for concerted efforts to reduce pollution and promote responsible practices to make Tawi riverfront a unique destination. “Administration and People need to commit to restore the sacred Tawi river,” he said.
“Be proud of your city. The prerequisite for making a city beautiful is that the citizens should have unwavering pride and love for their city,” the Lieutenant Governor told the residents of Jammu. The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that, once all the projects related to Tawi riverfront are complete, it will offer a unique and charming experience for the residents and travellers.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also spoke on the incredible works done by Jammu Smart City Limited in Jammu in the last few years. Whether it is the Heritage Trail project in the old city area near Raghunath Bazaar, the upgradation of Residency Road, or the Complete Street Development in Gandhi Nagar—all these projects are excellent examples of how various zones have been revitalized into vibrant, accessible, and people-friendly spaces, he added.
“We have also seen a deep commitment to the environment. Over five hectares of green spaces have been developed at locations like Panama Chowk, Balidan Stambh, near Jammu University, and across Ranbir Canal from BSF Paloura up to Pawan Ice Cream, among others. Public art like 3D murals, wall paintings, sculptures, etc.—is adding color and life to our cityscape, giving Jammu a personality that’s unique and proud.
Our public transport has taken a big leap too—with 100 electric AC buses now running within and between major towns of Jammu province. These buses are equipped with live tracking, CCTV cameras, and digital payment options, making commuting cleaner, safer, and more convenient for everyone. Our Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) and Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) are ensuring that the city runs more efficiently and with safety regularly on a daily basis, the Lieutenant Governor further said.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the vital role of common citizens in the smooth operation of the city and to the creation of clean and vibrant public spaces. “Smart City is not just about technology; it’s about people. It’s about improving daily life, creating opportunities, and building a city we are all proud to live in. I want to take a moment to appreciate the incredible efforts of the JSCL team including the engineers, planners, workers on the ground, and most importantly, you—the people of Jammu. Your support, patience, and faith in this mission have made all this possible.
I assure you, the government will continue to stand firmly behind such development efforts. Our vision is clear—to make Jammu not just smart, but safe, green, inclusive, and future-ready. Let’s keep working together. Let’s keep moving forward. Because the Jammu we are building today is the legacy we will leave for generations to come,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Sh Jugal Kishore Sharma and Er. Gulam Ali Khatana - Members of Parliament; Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Devansh Yadav, Municipal Commissioner Jammu and CEO of Jammu Smart City Limited; Shri Rajesh Gupta, Chairman Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council; heads of various religious and business associations, members of civil society groups, Acharyas and Archakas were present.
Members of Legislative Assembly; Administrative Secretaries; Deputy Commissioner Jammu and senior officials of Civil and Police Administration and people from all walks of life also took part in the Tawi Aarti.
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