J&K pilgrims seek compensation over shortened Hajj stay, Haj Committee assures action

EO Haj Committee J&K says matter taken up with HCI, hopeful of refund

Srinagar, Jul 12 (KNO): Several Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday have raised serious concerns over the unexpected curtailment of their stay in Saudi Arabia, saying it has disrupted their spiritual journey and caused financial losses.

In a representation submitted to the Executive Officer of the J&K Haj Committee, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the pilgrims stated that, as per the original schedule, they were supposed to stay for 40 days in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

They, however, said their return was preponed, cutting the pilgrimage short by several days.

“Only the pilgrims who departed on May 30 were affected. Others were allowed to complete their full stay,” the representation read, adding that the sudden change caused “irreparable spiritual loss” since prayers at Masjid Al-Haram carry immense religious value.

Also, the pilgrims highlighted that despite paying higher charges compared to other states and countries, they received fewer facilities and a shorter pilgrimage experience.

Iftikhar Qadri, one of the pilgrims, said they felt deeply disheartened. “For many of us, this was once in a lifetime. The last few days in the holy city are spiritually very significant, and we were deprived of that,” he said.

Additionally, the pilgrims urged the authorities to investigate the matter, fix responsibility and provide financial compensation. They also demanded compensation for those who were accommodated in hotels located outside the Markazia area.

When contacted, Executive Officer of the J&K Haj Committee, Dr Shujhat Qureshi, told KNO the matter has already been taken up with the Haj Committee of India.

“We have sent a letter to the central Haj Committee and a reminder was also sent yesterday. We are hopeful that the refund will be provided to the affected pilgrims,” he said—(KNO)

Govt’s efforts to improve JK’s healthcare hampered by staff shortages, infra delays

Budgam locals aghast over snail’s pace work at DH Complex; MS says efforts to expand patient facilities ongoing

Srinagar: Despite significant government initiatives aimed at enhancing medical facilities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, many patients continue to face considerable difficulties in accessing timely and adequate healthcare due to persistent shortages of medical and paramedical staff.

The Agha Syed Yusuf Memorial Hospital, the primary healthcare institution serving a population exceeding 5.37 million in the Budgam district, has been grappling with a prolonged shortage of doctors, nurses and essential paramedical personnel.

According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), vacancies exist across various positions, including senior supervisors, pharmacy heads, junior nurses, lab technicians, electricians, theatre staff, health assistants, technicians, and multi-tasking staff.

Notably, the hospital presently operates without a single appointed pharmacist, despite repeated retirements in this category.

Infrastructure delays have further exacerbated the situation. The hospital’s main building is still incomplete, causing inconvenience and hardship for patients.

Of the 106 sanctioned posts, 53 remain vacant. While the administration and government have made several attempts to address these staffing gaps, the problem persists, impacting the quality of healthcare delivery.

Local residents have also raised concerns over the lack of parking facilities, which contributes to severe congestion and hampers patient access. Additionally, the hospital is still missing several basic specialty services, depriving patients of comprehensive care and forcing many to seek treatment elsewhere.

In a related development, the foundation stone for a new District Hospital Complex was laid on September 18, 2023. However, due to delays, construction remains incomplete.

At the event, held in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the then Chief Engineer had assured that the hospital building would be finished within two years. The new facility is planned to have 125 beds, and approximately 24 crore rupees were approved by the National Health Mission (NHM) about a year ago to support the project. Despite this, progress has been slow, drawing criticism from the public and renewed calls for the government to expedite the construction.

Medical Superintendent Dr. Ijaz Ahmed Khan acknowledged the difficulties caused by staff shortages but expressed optimism that these challenges would be alleviated once the new hospital building is operational. He also indicated ongoing efforts to expand patient facilities within the hospital—(KNO)

CS reviews implementation of welfare schemes for marginalized sections

Srinagar: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, Saturday chaired a meeting to review the implementation of various welfare schemes meant for marginalized and vulnerable sections of the society across Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Social Welfare Department (SWD), Anil Kumar Singh; Secretary in SWD; Mission Director, ICDS/ICPS/Mission Vatsalya; Chairperson, Juvenile Justice Board (JJB); Director, Social Welfare, Jammu/Kashmir; District Social Welfare Officers (DSWOs) and other senior officials of the department.

The Chief Secretary underscored the urgent need to upgrade all the Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) with basic facilities such as electricity, drinking water, toilets and other utilities. He directed for according priority to those centres housed in government-owned buildings through convergence with departments like Rural Development. He also asked for shifting of centres operating from private premises lacking such infrastructure.

Reviewing the outreach and impact of various flagship programmes, Dulloo laid emphasis on monitoring the outcomes of nutrition-based interventions targeting the children, adolescent girls and lactating mothers under the Poshan Scheme. He stressed that tracking measurable outcomes is critical for ensuring real progress at the grassroots level.

The Chief Secretary also called upon the Programme Officers and DSWOs to frequently conduct field visits to assess on-ground realities and align their actions with actual needs. He remarked that all decisions should stem from field-level insights and reflect the actual realities of our people.

In a forward-looking suggestion, Dulloo asked the department to explore the concept of Composite Homes in districts to house the orphaned children, elderly citizens and the destitute women together, providing them with a sense of community and shared care, reducing isolation.

Providing an overview of the department’s scope and responsibilities, Principal Secretary Anil Kumar Singh informed that the Social Welfare Department is currently implementing 37 Centrally Sponsored Schemes and 9 UT schemes, backed by a budgetary allocation of Rs 4,361 crore for the year 2025-26. He highlighted the presence of around 28,000 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) across the UT, which cater to nearly 9 lakh beneficiaries, ensuring last-mile delivery of services.

The Principal Secretary also presented a detailed account of the current status, outcomes and future roadmap of various schemes under the department’s ambit. Mission Directors and Directors briefed the Chief Secretary on the functioning and implementation status of their respective schemes and programmes.

The meeting comprehensively reviewed key initiatives under Mission Poshan (7 schemes), focusing on improving the nutritional levels among children and others. Mission Shakti (6 schemes) aimed at empowering the women ensuring their safety, empowerment and protection. Mission Vatsalya (7 schemes) focuses on institutional care and protection for different sections of the society in need.

Other centrally sponsored schemes discussed included SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise), Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana (AVYAY) and SAPSrC, PM-AJAY (Prime Minister’s Anusuchit Jaati Abhiyan Yojana), PM-YASASVI Scholarships, NAPDDR (Drug Demand Reduction), NSAP (National Social Assistance Programme), Scholarships for Minority, SC and OBC communities, ALIMCO-supported Prosthetic Aids, implementation of SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, NAMASTE (Sanitation Workers’ Welfare), PMJVK (Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram) besides others.

The review also covered UT government schemes like ISSS (Integrated Social Security Scheme), Ladli Beti, Marriage Assistance Scheme, SC Scholarship, Homes for those in distress, Pahari Hostels, Mobility Support to Specially-abled (scooties/prosthetics), Pensions for the needy and assistance to militancy-affected families.

As part of the ongoing efforts for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26, the Department revealed that consolidated proposals under various centrally sponsored schemes, amounting a total of Rs 1088.75 crore stands submitted. Out of these, major schemes such as Mission Poshan and ICDS (Rs 759.67 Cr), Mission Shakti (Rs 40.79 Cr) and Mission Vatsalya (Rs 126.54 Cr) have already received approval. Additionally, proposals for PMMVY (Rs 64.39 Cr) and BBBP (Rs 6.20 Cr) have also been approved.

Several proposals have been submitted and are currently awaiting approval. These included financial allocations for the implementation of schemes under the Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989, Senior Citizen Homes, Saksham Anganwadi Centres, Creche (Palna), Pre- and Post-matric Scholarships for SC students, NAPDDR including NMBA and PM-YASASVI, the meeting was apprised—(KNO)

Women-led development key to eradicating terrorism: LG Sinha

Under PM Modi’s guidance women empowerment has transformed into mass movement in J&K; Women true symbols of self-sacrifice, courage

UT’s economy has doubled in past five years; Lauds Monica Pal Bharti, her team of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar

Shopian, Jul 12 (KNO): Asserting that “women-led development is key to eradicating terrorism and ushering in lasting peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday reiterated the government’s firm commitment to empowering women and promoting their leadership in the developmental journey of the Union Territory.

Addressing the valedictory function of women vocational training course at Army Goodwill School Balapur here in South Kashmir, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Under PM Modi’s guidance women’s empowerment has been transformed into a mass movement in Jammu and Kashmir. The social and economic upliftment of women has been our top priority. I strongly believe that women-led development will lead us to overcoming challenges like terrorism, drug addiction, other social evils, and to build a peaceful and prosperous J&K.”

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that initiatives like homestay programs launched five years ago have seen remarkable participation by women. “Today, 58% of homestays are being run by women. This is not just entrepreneurship—it is empowerment in action,” he said.

He emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gender gap across sectors. “We must fill in the gaps between men and women in all spheres—economic, social, and administrative. Promoting the women workforce is not optional; it is essential,” LG Sinha said, as per KNO.

Calling women the true symbols of Atmabalidaan (self-sacrifice) and Sahas (courage), he said women have often demonstrated greater capabilities than men. “If one woman is empowered, she uplifts an entire family and, by extension, society. That is why women’s empowerment remains a top priority of our administration.”

He also referred to flagship governance programs like Back to Village, under which women have been provided 40% reservation and access to loans up to Rs 20 lakh without the need for guarantees. “Such progressive measures have ensured that more women can now dream big and turn their aspirations into enterprises,” he said.

Underlining the role of Nari Shakti in grassroots development, LG Sinha revealed that “in university convocations across J&K, 75% of the gold medals have been bagged by girl students—a clear indication of the changing dynamics and the rise of women in every field.”

“Our villages are progressing because of the contributions of women. They are not just beneficiaries of change—they are the catalysts,” he said, adding that women-led growth is crucial for dismantling the ideological and social roots of terrorism.

The Lieutenant Governor assured that the administration would continue to create policies and platforms to unlock the full potential of women in J&K. “Our development story will only be complete when women stand equally in every sector—empowered, respected, and leading the way forward.

He felicitated the women trainees who completed their vocational training and life enhancement skill courses at the school and five other entrepreneurship and livelihood enhancement centres at Pulwama, Kulgam, Budgam, Anantnag and Pampore.

Citing flagship schemes like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Umeed, and Tejaswini, the Lieutenant Governor said these programs are not just financial tools but platforms of transformation. “Through these initiatives, women are receiving skill-based training, financial assistance, and mentoring. This has enabled them to set up their own businesses and gain social and economic independence,” he said.

“Local SHGs, especially in rural belts like Shopian, have been active in sectors such as horticulture, food processing, tailoring, and agri-business. The confidence on their faces says it all—they believe in themselves, and they believe in the future,” the LG added.

He said that the UT’s economy has doubled in the past five years, a feat made possible by good governance, improved law and order, and increased public participation in developmental processes.

“This growth is not just in numbers—it reflects in better roads, schools, digital infrastructure, and livelihoods. We are hopeful that this trend will continue this year as well,” he said

LG Sinha lauded Monica Pal Bharti, her entire team of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Vikas evam Sewa Sansthan, Project Toha Social, and the Indian Army for the initiative of women empowerment and providing vocational training to 1,481 women, including 125 women trainees of the recently concluded training course.

Paying homage to Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the LG said Baba Saheb was the pioneer of women’s rights and women’s empowerment, and his timeless values and resolve for selfless service, equality, and social justice continue to guide the nation— (KNO)

LG Sinha Orders Transfers of 7 Senior IAS Officers

Ashish Chandra Verma Appointed Financial Commissioner Tourism; Yasha Mudgal to Head YSS, Sarmad Hafeez Shifted to Social Welfare

Srinagar, July 12 (JKNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday ordered major administrative reshuffle among top IAS officers of Jammu and Kashmir to enhance departmental functioning and streamline governance.

As per an official order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, IAS (AGMUT: 1994), who was awaiting posting, has been appointed as Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Tourism Department. He will also hold the charge of Administrative Secretary, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, in addition to his own duties, until further orders.

Sh. Anil Kumar Singh, IAS (AGMUT:1995), Principal Secretary to the Government, Social Welfare Department, holding additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Mining Department, has been transferred and posted as Principal Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department. He shall continue to hold the additional charge of the Mining Department.

Ms. Yasha Mudgal, IAS (AGMUT:2007), Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department, has been posted as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Youth Services and Sports Department.

Sh. Sarmad Hafeez, IAS (AGMUT:2009), Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Department, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Social Welfare Department.

Sh. Talat Parvez Rohella, IAS (AGMUT:2010), Secretary to the Government, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, has been posted as Chairman, Bureau of Public Enterprises, J&K.

Sh. Bhupinder Kumar, IAS (AGMUT:2011), Secretary, Public Works (R&B) Department, holding additional charge of Director of Census Operations/Director of Citizen Registration for the UTs of J&K and Ladakh, Resident Commissioner New Delhi, and Administrative Secretary, Hospitality and Protocol Department, has been posted as Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi. He will continue to hold additional charges of the Hospitality & Protocol Department and Census Operations/Citizen Registration for J&K and Ladakh.

Sh. Ananth Dwivedi, IAS (AGMUT:2021), Chief Executive Officer, State Health Agency, J&K, currently holding additional charge of Mission Director, Ayushman Bharat Digital Health Mission, J&K, shall also hold the charge of Additional Secretary to the Government, Revenue Department, in addition to his existing duties, the order reads. (JKNS)

People gave you power to act, not plead helplessness: PDP MLA to CM Omar

‘If reclaiming 370 needs resignation, we should do it’

Sopore, Jul 11 (KNO): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator, Mir Mohammad Fayaz on Friday accused Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah of failing to live up to the massive public mandate he received in the aftermath of Article 370’s abrogation.

Speaking to the reporters in Sopore, Mir, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had placed their trust in Omar Abdullah with the hope that he would lead the fight to restore their lost rights. “The people gave you power not to plead helplessness, but to act. If even for observing Sheikh Abdullah Day, you need the Lieutenant Governor’s permission, then what exactly is the point of being in power?” he asked.

Comparing BJP’s use of its parliamentary majority to revoke Article 370 and the expectations placed on regional leaders to undo that injustice, Mir, who represents Kupwara constituency, said that the people gave Omar a strong mandate to bring it back. “Sadly, he has failed to rise to the occasion.”

Fayaz said that if reclaiming the region’s lost constitutional rights required stepping away from power, then leaders must be ready to make that sacrifice. “If resigning helps in reclaiming Article 370, do it. But don’t cover your failures by blaming circumstances. Leadership demands courage, not excuses,” he said.

Referring to Omar Abdullah’s statement that “nothing is in his hands,” the PDP legislator called it a betrayal of public trust. “You say you have no authority? The truth is, you were given more political strength than anyone else in recent history. If you cannot act even with that, then the people deserve answers,” he said.

MLA Fayaz cited examples of high voter turnout in areas like Sopore, long known for political apathy and low polling percentages. He said the people came out in large numbers because they believed in democratic change. “From 10–15% turnout, Sopore today records 60% polling. That’s not a coincidence, people voted with hope. They believed one party would take charge and bring change. If leaders now say they are powerless, it’s nothing but disappointing,” he added—(KNO)