After LS, RS gives nod to bill granting ST status to Paharis in J&K

Srinagar, Feb 09 (KNO): Three days after being cleared by the Lok Sabha, the Raya Sabha on Friday approved the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 to grant scheduled tribe (ST) status to Paharis and three other communities in the Union Territory.

The Rajya Sabha today passed the bill to include Paharis, Paddaris, Gadda Braman and Koli communities in the Scheduled Tribes list of J&K.

As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the bill was passed in the Upper House via voice vote. With the passage of the bill in the Rajya Sabha, the Paharis have now been included in the ST list. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on July 26, 2023.

The Rajya Sabha also cleared the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 to include Valmiki community in the Scheduled Caste list of J&K.

It is worthwhile to mention that the J & K administration has repeatedly maintained that ST status to Paharis won’t affect 10 percent reservation available to Gujjar-Bakerwal community.

On February 6, 2023, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had stated that inclusion of these communities in the Scheduled Tribes list will have no impact on current level of reservations available to Gujjars, Bakarwals & other tribes & they will continue to get reservations like before.

“After the bill is cleared in Rajya Sabha, the UT administration will issue necessary notifications ensuring that the people included in the existing list of Scheduled Tribes continue to get the same level of reservation,” Sinha had said—(KNO)

‘Only 30% Govt, Pvt Schools of JK have internet connection available for students, staff’

Srinagar, Feb 09 (KNO): In Jammu and Kashmir only 30 percent of overall government and recognized private schools have internet connection available for the students and staff members—thus raising a question on communicating and teaching students virtually.

According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the current official reveal that only ‘5115’ government-run-schools have internet like facilities available for the students and the staff members that include 152 girl schools, 4895 co-educational institutes and 68 boys schools.

It also reveals that only one government aided school has an internet connection available.

The official figures further state that only 34 Kendriya Vidyalaya central schools were having the internet like facilities available for the students and staff.

According to the official figures, a total of 36 schools run by the Wakf Board were having internet facilities available.

About the recognized private schools of Jammu and Kashmir, the official figures reveal that only 3335 educational institutes were having internet facilities available that includes 3312 co-educational private, 20 girls and 13 boys’ schools.

Pertinently, in August 2023, the Jammu and Kashmir government had initiated providing of smart classes in more than 23,000 public schools with educationally backwards blocks on priority.

The government had said that it took the initiative of providing a computer lab with smart class facilities in all the 23,283 schools of the Union Territory (UT).”

It also states that the government was keen to take up the digital initiates on priority for the schools falling in educationally backwards blocks and tribal areas.

The official figures reveal that at least 1420 were set up at elementary level and over 1500 ICT labs at secondary and senior secondary level.

“Till Aug-2023, 1420 CAL centers have been established at Upper Primary School level and 1588 ICT labs at Secondary and Higher Secondary Level and are functional till date (May-2023),” it reads.

Principal Secretary, School Education Department was not available for his comments—(KNO)

TRAFFIC POLICE HEADQUARTERS, J&K, JAMMU/SRINAGAR

1. From 08-02-2024, 1700 hrs. to 09-02-2024, 1700 hrs. there was slow movement observed on NH-44 due to breakdown of 03 HMVs and single lane traffic at Dalwas, poor surface condition of road at several places between Nashri and NAVYUG Tunnel.

2. Passengers/LMVs operators are advised to prefer journey on Jammu-Srinagar NHW during day time. Please avoid journey during night hours as apprehension of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal.

3. HMVs Operators/Owners are requested to desist from overloading and carry sufficient fuel during journey on Jammu-Srinagar NHW. It is further requested that vehicle owners must double check the fitness of their vehicles and carry sufficient fuel before undertaking journey on Jammu-Srinagar NHW.

4. HMVs with only 06 and 10 tyres shall be allowed to ply through Dhar road.

TRAFFIC PLAN & ADVISORY FOR 10-02-2024:-

Subject to fair weather and good road condition, LMVS Passenger/Private Cars/HMVs/Load Carriers shall be allowed from both sides on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) viz Jammu towards Srinagar and vice-versa. Commuters are advised to follow lane discipline.

SFs Convoy Movement:-

Subject to fair weather and good road condition, Security Forces vehicles shall be allowed from both sides on Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44) viz Jammu towards Srinagar and vice-versa. Please contact TCU Ramban before undertake journey.

SSG ROAD

Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri road is still blocked due to snow accumulation.

Mughal Road:-

Mughal road is still blocked due to snow accumulation

Bhaderwah-Chamba road:-

Bhaderwah-Chamba road is still blocked due to snow accumulation.

Kishtwar- Sinthan- Anantnag NH244:-

Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag NH244 road is still blocked due to snow accumulation.

ADVISORY:-

People are advised to undertake journey on NH-44 only after confirming

status of the road from Traffic control units as under:-

Jammu (0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103)

Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103)

Ramban (9419993745, 1800-180-7043)

Udhampur (8491928625)

PCR Kishtwar (9906154100) for status of Sinthan Road.

Fresh Weather Update in Jammu Kashmir till 17 February

Forecast:
Expect dry weather until February 17th, with occasional evening clouds on the 14th. Looking ahead to February 18-20, there’s a possibility of light to moderate snow or rain.

Advisory:
Given substantial snow accumulation and sub-freezing temperatures in hilly areas, travelers are strongly advised to adhere to administration and traffic police advisories.

Met Center Synopsis:
The meteorological center signals a shift in weather patterns. Dry conditions prevail initially, offering a window for outdoor activities. However, come February 18th, anticipate changes with potential snow or rain, prompting caution.

Precautions for Travelers:
1. Stay informed: Regularly check weather updates and advisories from local authorities.
2. Winter gear: Ensure you are equipped with appropriate clothing and gear for sub-freezing temperatures.
3. Route planning: Plan travel routes considering the weather forecast, and be flexible with schedules.

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Community Awareness:
Spread awareness within your community about the upcoming weather changes. Encourage neighbors and friends to stay updated on advisories to ensure everyone’s safety.

Emergency Preparedness:
In case of heavy snowfall, make sure emergency supplies are readily available. This includes non-perishable food, water, blankets, and a flashlight.

While enjoying the current dry spell, it’s crucial to be prepared for potential weather shifts. By staying informed and following advisory guidelines, everyone can navigate these changes safely. Remember, preparedness is key when nature takes its course.

Stay safe and stay informed!