PAAs await service rules, promotion policy even after 4-yrs

Srinagar, Apr 8: Panchayat Accounts Assistants (PAAs) in Jammu and Kashmir continue to work without service rules, promotion policy, or transfer guidelines even four years after their appointment, leaving them frustrated over stagnant career growth.

Scores of PAAs said they were recruited through a highly competitive examination conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) in 2020 — the first major recruitment drive after the abrogation of Article 370.

They were appointed in the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to manage crucial financial operations in Block Development Offices (BDOs). “The recruitment was seen as a landmark exercise, with over 1.64 lakh applicants vying for the posts. Appointment orders were handed over by the Union Home Minister, underlining the importance of the new cadre,” a PAA, said.

However, despite their critical role in rural governance, PAAs said they remain without a clear service structure or career progression plan. Officials said that although the Department of Rural Development has submitted multiple proposals for cadre structuring and promotions, the Finance Department has repeatedly returned the file, seeking revisions without providing any clear justification.

“The file regarding career progression has been lying in the Finance Department for the last two years without any outcome. We feel ignored despite being part of vital grassroots governance,” said a PAA, adding that many among them have even cleared prestigious examinations like JKAS and UPSC.

In response to a cut motion raised by MLA Sheikh Khursheed in the Assembly, the Government said deliberations have taken place between the Rural Development Department and the Finance Department regarding the career progression and cadre management of PAAs.

The reply added that it was decided PAAs will continue to be managed by the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj. A draft policy framework for their career progression has been submitted to the Finance Department for approval, which involves financial implications and post upgradations through the reduction of lower-tier positions. However, the final approval remains pending.

The Director General (Codes) in the Finance Department, Mahesh Das, said he is yet to receive the file.

Meanwhile, PAAs have urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to intervene, warning that prolonged bureaucratic delays risk demoralizing a cadre central to the delivery of rural development schemes across Jammu and Kashmir.

Free bus service for women sees over 3.5 lakh passengers in a week

Ridership doubles, 40k-50k women travel in over 95 electric buses regularly, say officials

Srinagar, Apr 08 (KNO): The newly launched free bus service for women has witnessed a massive surge in ridership in Jammu and Kashmir with over 3.5 lakh women availing the facility within just a week of its launch on April 01.

The initiative, which aims to enhance women’s mobility and ease of access to public transport, has received widespread appreciation. The female passengers from both urban and rural areas are using the service to travel to schools, colleges, offices and marketplaces.

As per the details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), bus stops now witness large turnouts, especially during peak hours—8 to 10 AM, midday, and 4 to 6 PM.

According to Smart City data, accessed by a KNO Correspondent, the daily ridership on electric buses has doubled since the scheme began. “Where earlier we saw around 20,000 to 21,000 people using the service, the number has now risen to more than 40,000,” said an official.

Presently, more than 95 plus air-conditioned electric buses operate on more than 30 plus routes, carrying nearly 50,000 women passengers every day.

Passengers have lauded the move, especially during the hot summer days. “More than half of my salary was spent on daily travel. Now, I save that money and can spend it on essentials,” said a working woman from the outskirts of the city.

Officials also acknowledged the initiative and added they had a substantial social impact, especially in empowering women and reducing their dependency on private or unsafe transport options. “To ensure the scheme remains viable in the long term, authorities are considering various funding mechanisms and government subsidies.”—(KNO)

No proposal to waive off KCC loans up to Rs 3 lakh for farmers: J&K Govt

Srinagar, Apr 08 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday clarified that there is currently no proposal under consideration to waive off Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans up to Rs 3 lakh availed by farmers.

“There is no proposal in the government to waive off Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans,” the government as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said.

The Minister Incharge revealed this in response to a query by MLA Hilal Akbar Lone, who had asked whether the government intends to provide loan relief to farmers burdened under KCC borrowing.

It is pertinent to mention that the stakeholders have been urging the administration to consider a one-sided loan waiver, as a relief measure to mitigate the crises.

Notably, KCC scheme, launched by the government of India to provide timely access to credit for farmers has seen wide adoption in Jammu and Kashmir, however, many reportedly ‘struggled’ to repay—(KNO)

Road Safety Awareness Event “Safer Roads, Safer Kashmir” Held at Birla Open Minds International School, Pampore

Pampore, :- A significant road safety awareness event titled “Safer Roads, Safer Kashmir” was held today at Birla Open Minds International School, Pampore, in collaboration with the Kashmir Road Safety Foundation and the Transport Department. The initiative was conducted under the umbrella of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, aiming to raise awareness about safe road practices among school students and the broader community.

The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including Ms. Mehnaz Chisti, ARTO Pulwama; Mr. Nasir Ali Khan, Chairman of the Kashmir Road Safety Foundation; Mr. A.A. Mir, Chairman of BML Welfare Trust; and Mr. G.M. Lone, General Secretary of BML Welfare Trust.

In her address, ARTO Mehnaz Chisti highlighted the importance of early awareness and the role of schools in shaping responsible citizens. She was pleased to observe the road safety measures already being implemented at the school and commended the school administration and the Transport Department for their proactive steps in ensuring student safety.

Mr. Nasir Ali Khan spoke about the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to create safer roads across Kashmir, underlining the importance of community involvement and interdepartmental coordination to reduce road accidents.

Mr. A.A. Mir and Mr. G.M. Lone also shared their thoughts on the necessity of collective efforts in promoting road safety and appreciated the school’s initiative in engaging young minds on this vital issue.

Dr. Mehnaz, Principal of Birla Open Minds International School, emphasized the crucial role of school bus operators in ensuring student safety. She spoke passionately about recognizing their efforts and maintaining their dignity within both the school environment and wider society. “They are not just drivers; they are caretakers and responsible members of our school community who deserve respect and acknowledgment,” she said.

Students participated enthusiastically in interactive sessions and activities designed to promote road safety consciousness.
The event concluded with a pledge by all attendees to follow traffic rules and spread awareness, reinforcing the shared goal of building a safer Kashmir for all.