#JAMMU: Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, Science and Technology, Transport, Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma flagged off second edition of Jammu Midnight Marathon from Maulana Azad Stadium here.

The event, organized by Real Time Sports in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, carries the theme “Run for Pride of Jammu” and aims to promote fitness, unity and important causes like safe driving, women’s safety and saving lives.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that the Marathon is not just a race, it’s celebration of Jammu’s strength and spirit. He added that this Marathon is a community focused initiative that also encourages fitness and awareness.

The marathon featured four categories including 5 KM Fun Run, 10 KM Challenge Run, Half Marathon (21.1 KM), and Full Marathon (42.2 KM) in which Runners from across the region participated.

During the event, participants were also distributed marathon’s T-shirts to build an excitement among them.

 Secretary Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul was also present on the occasion.

Lieutenant Governor presents Kailakh Sanskrit Ratna Award 2024 to Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj

Lauds his stellar contribution towards promotion of Sanskrit and promoting ideals and values of India’s great civilisation

Propagation of all-embracing Indian culture, core values, artistic traditions and the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world as one family” is our priority: LG

India will shape a sustainable, peaceful and progressive world for future generations: LG Sinha

Saints have to be the conscience keepers of the citizens in enabling equity and justice. A social awakening is needed for the society to prosper. It is for each individual of society, intelligentsia, saints to strive to inculcate core values to create a brighter future: LG

LG Says, today India with its rich historical and cultural heritage and its talented human resources is marching towards the goal of developed India by 2047

In this journey, enlightened people from every field, especially scientists and spiritualists, need to come forward and give new impetus to the development process: LG

We need to ensure that the fruits of development percolate to the grassroots. We have to spread the benefits among all our people and manage the process of change with sensitivity: LG

Quest for peace and prosperity call for leadership in every walk of life. Individuals must rise above vested-interest to fulfill the responsibilities: LG Sinha

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 27:  Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today presented the Kailakh Sanskrit Ratna Award for the year 2024 to Param Pujya Niranjan Peethadhishwar Shri Shri 1008 Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj, at a ceremony organised by Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust at Jammu.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor described Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj as an enlightened saint, Yoga Guru and renowned scholar and lauded his stellar contribution towards promotion of Sanskrit and promoting ideals and values of India’s great civilisation.

Swami Ji’s selfless service to Sanskrit and social upliftment is inspiring all of us to rededicate ourselves to strengthen our traditional & cultural values and work for the cause of the society, he said.

At the award ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor shared the government’s resolve, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to preserve and promote India’ rich traditions and cultural heritage.

“Propagation of all-embracing Indian culture, core values, artistic traditions and the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world as one family” is our priority. India will shape a sustainable, peaceful and progressive world for future generations,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that, today India with its rich historical and cultural heritage and its talented human resources is marching towards the goal of developed India by 2047. In this journey, enlightened people from every field, especially scientists and spiritualists, need to come forward and give new impetus to the development process, he added.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the saints, enlightened citizens and the administrative machinery to serve the humanity unitedly.

“Saints have to be the conscience keepers of the citizens in enabling equity and justice. A social awakening is needed for the society to prosper. It is for each individual of society, intelligentsia, saints to strive to inculcate core values to create a brighter future,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor further called for collective efforts to ensure that the fruits of development percolate to the grassroots and spread the benefits among all people and manage the process of change with sensitivity.

“Quest for peace and prosperity call for leadership in every walk of life. Individuals must rise above vested interest to fulfill the responsibilities,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also commended the valuable contribution of Mahant Rohit Shastri and Shri Kailakh Jyotish & Vedic Sansthan Trust for promoting and popularizing Sanskrit Language through its various endeavours like Mobile Sanskrit Gurukul, Saral Sanskrit Bodh publication, Kartavya Path magazine etc.

Sh Sham Lal Sharma, Member of Legislative Assembly; Prof BN Tripathi, Vice Chancellor SKUAST Jammu; Mahant Rohit Shastri, President, Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust; senior officials, spiritual leaders; heads of religious organizations, prominent citizens and students were present.

No: PR/DI/24/1570/

#JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dullo, today described Jammu and Kashmir as an abode to varied cultures and traditions abundantly blessed with unique and exquisite artefacts and creations which symolizes unity in diversity.

Atal Dulloo stated this while addressing the inaugural ceremony of an exclusive heritage exhibition of over 500 exquisite artefacts of historical and cultural significance, organised by the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu, on the eve of World Heritage Day at Abhinav Theatre.

The Chief Secretary, while speaking on the occasion, exhorted upon the younger generation to visit the museums and monuments of their region to know and understand about our historic legacy and cultural blend. He maintained that the J&K’s rare and extraordinarily enchanting culture and heritage besides its splendid natural grandeur fascinates the whole world. This blessing can be utilized in numerous ways to boost the tourism industry here thus rasing the UT’s economic tremendously.

Dulloo said that the exhibition has been keenly designed to provide a platform to the private collectors dedicated towards preserving objects of heritage significance. He reiterated his commitment towards preservation of J&K’s heritage legacy while elaborating on the scheme being implemented for revival, restoration and protection of UT’s cultural inheritance.

The participating collectors and curators included Suresh Abrol, Director Shahvat Art Gallery, Jammu, Inder Singh, Director Himalayan Heritage Museum and Anil Pada, representing Amar Santosh Museum and Art Gallery, Udhampur.

Principal Secretary, Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta, Secretary in Culture Department, Deepika K. Sharma, Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Harvinder Kour attended the event.

Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary Kala Kendra Society, highlighted the objective and importance of the Heritage exhibition.

The exhibition’s key attractions included rare exhibits from Kashmir School of Paintings, ancient copper utensils, manuscripts inscribed on Birch Bark (Bhojpatra), original text of Rajatarangini, an ancient historical chronicle, coins from the Kushan, Dogra, Sikh and British periods.

The event was a resounding success, drawing attention to the region’s rich cultural heritage and the invaluable contribution of private collectors in its preservation.

#JAMMU: The Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, in collaboration with the District Administration Jammu on Sunday organized a spectacular Devotional and Cultural Night as part of the ongoing Jhiri Mela 2024.

The event featured mesmerizing performances by renowned artists Lakhwinder Wadali, Ravi Raghuvanshi and Sonali Dogra, besides artists from JKAACL, who captivated the audience with their soulful melodies and vibrant cultural presentations.

Earlier in the day, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, paid obeisance to Baba Jitto Ji, honoring his enduring legacy of devotion and sacrifice.

The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with thousands of attendees celebrating the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Jammu. It provided a vibrant platform to showcase local talent alongside celebrated artists, reinforcing the cultural ethos of the region.

Prominent dignitaries gracing the occasion included DDC Chairman Jammu, Bharat Bhushan, MLA Marh Surinder Bhagat, Director Tourism, Vivekanand Rai, and Joint Director Tourism Sunaina Sharma Mehta, who were the special guests of the evening.

Also present were Deputy Director Tourism Jammu Savita Chauhan, SDM Marh Ather Amin Zargar, Deputy Secretary I&C Ajay Salan and Additional SP Brijesh Sharma, who added to the grandeur of the event.

Adding a special touch to the evening, souvenirs crafted by Jammu Tourism were presented to singer Lakhwinder Wadali by Joint Director Tourism, Sunaina Sharma Mehta.

Expressing his gratitude, Lakhwinder Wadali wholeheartedly thanked the Tourism Department for inviting him to be part of the event. In his message, he said, “It is an honor to perform at such a significant occasion. I invite everyone to come to Jammu, witness its grand beauty, pay obeisance to Shri Baba Jitto Ji, and explore the region’s religious and other prominent destinations.”

The Jhiri Mela 2024, spanning from 14 November to 24 November, continues to attract visitors with its diverse cultural programs, devotional activities, and vibrant exhibitions.

LG says, the sacrifice of Baba Jitto continues to inspire the society to work towards a stronger nation

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited the Jhiri Mela and paid obeisance to Baba Jitto at his Samadhi in Jhiri Village. He said, the sacrifice of Baba Jitto continues to inspire the society to work towards a stronger nation.

At Jhiri Mela ground, the Lt Governor addressed a large gathering of farmers and devotees. He announced that Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections will be held soon.

Highlighting the deep spiritual and cultural significance of Jhiri Mela, the Lieutenant Governor said the annual event reminds us about the sacrifices of our farming families and their vital role in serving and nurturing humanity.

“Jhiri Mela symbolizes cultural unity of India and the tradition tied in the thread of social values provides an opportunity to the people to learn about our heritage, culture, art and craft,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor shared the resolve of the government, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to transform the agriculture sector.

“Empowering farmers of the Union Territory of J&K is my mission and we have taken strategic steps to accelerate transformation in agriculture & allied sectors. We will ensure our youth in rural areas get equal opportunities to shine,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also reiterated his commitment to protect the rights of displaced families of POJK, West Pakistan Refugees, tribals, Valmikis and other deprived sections.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated progressive farmers, and officials engaged in the conduct of Jhiri Mela.  He also visited the stalls put up by the government departments, Agri-entrepreneurs and farmers. The event also featured impressive performances by the artists showcasing the rich art and culture of the region.

Sh Bharat Bhushan, Chairman, DDC Jammu; Sh Anand Jain, ADGP, Jammu; Sh Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Sh Surinder Kumar, Member of Legislative Assembly from Marh; Sh Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, senior officials, and people from all walks of life were present.

NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met President Droupadi Murmu today at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The President of India’s official X account shared a post informing about the meeting between the two leaders.

“Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan,” shared the official account of the President of India.

This visit marks a significant step in Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s official engagements since taking office as the Chief Minister of the Jammu and Kashmir Government last month.

In recent weeks, he has held discussions with top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister of Roads, Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari. Yesterday, he also met Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

The Chief Minister is scheduled to meet Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tomorrow.

Also, on November 12, Chief Minister Abdullah attended the Conference of Power Ministers of States and UTs, chaired by Union Minister for Power Manohar Lal Khattar, where he voiced Jammu and Kashmir’s priorities and challenges in the energy sector.

#SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that the agenda of his government will be guided by the needs and aspirations of its citizens. Speaking during the last day of session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, the chief minister remarked on the historic significance of the gathering, noting both the agenda at hand and the achievements to come.

“It’s been a long time since I last spoke in this House as Chief Minister,” he began, reflecting on the changes in the region over the past six and a half years.

 He noted, “It’s been a long time since I last spoke in this House as Chief Minister. The last time was back in early 2014 during the Governor’s address, and I spoke as a member of the opposition in 2018. Much has changed in these six and a half years—sometimes, it feels hard to believe. We’ve lost so much.

Reflecting on where we were and where we are today, I often find it difficult to grasp. The last time I stood here, we were a state with our own flag, our own constitution, and a unique identity within this country. All of that was taken away from us. While I regret what we’ve lost, I am also filled with a renewed sense of commitment. With the time God has granted me in this position, I am determined to achieve something meaningful for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

 Thanking the voters of Jammu and Kashmir for their participation in the recent elections, Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to serve all citizens, including those who did not vote or participate in the electoral process.

 “This session marks a new beginning, a historic one, despite its limited timeframe. First and foremost, I want to thank the voters of Jammu and Kashmir, who participated in large numbers, regardless of whom they voted for. They cast their precious votes with the hope that this House would truly represent their aspirations, voice their concerns, and resolve their issues. This Assembly belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, to each and every citizen. We are here to serve all, not just those who voted or participated in this election. The people are our masters, and we owe them the respect of their decision”.

 During the Motion of Thanks on Lieutenant Governor’s Address, the chief minister stated that many doubted that these elections would even take place, or hoped that they wouldn’t. “There were times when it felt like the possibility of a democratically elected Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir was a distant dream. I still recall a film in which our Assembly complex was used as a set, and it was disheartening. Our Assembly complex, where elected representatives sat, was reduced to a storage facility. But time has changed, and God had other plans. Today, members have reclaimed their rightful seats in this Assembly, as they should.”

 Reflecting on the challenges and moments of humiliation he and other leaders faced in recent years, Abdullah reminded the Assembly, “A photograph surfaced on my phone today, bringing back memories of a time when I was a guest at the J&K State Guest House—not by choice. Many members here today were confined at SKICC. Those days, every effort was made to humiliate us. My sister, who wished to see me, had to seek permission from an official and was met with unnecessary barriers, all in the name of humiliation. What was our crime? Was it simply holding the national flag and abiding by the Constitution? We did not rebel; we sought things to be done through democratic means”.

He emphasized that today marks a fresh beginning, expressing a focus on future progress rather than past beginning. “I don’t intend to delve into past grievances, as I am someone who looks ahead. I am focused on our future and determined to reach our destination. Today, I rise to express my gratitude for the Lieutenant Governor’s address, hoped that all members would take part in this motion of thanks. We wanted discussions, particularly on restoring constitutional safeguards and statehood. Unfortunately, instead of constructive debate, we witnessed drama. I believe the people do not appreciate such chaos. A disorderly Assembly may benefit the government by avoiding accountability, but it betrays the public’s trust,” the chief minister said in his address.

 Speaking on the last resolution that was passed when GST system was introduced in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that the last resolution passed by this House addressed financial autonomy. “Back then, we had the authority to impose taxes based on our own needs, but that was stripped away with the introduction of GST, and now we bear the consequences of those decisions,” he said and added that those who now brandish banners about Article 370 were, at that time, complicit. “Compromise is their legacy, not ours. We have been allied with the NDA in Delhi, but we never allowed the BJP to extend its influence here”.

 Talking about the passing of resolution on granting special status and constitutional guarantees, the chief minister said that regarding the resolution that passed, let me clarify that it was no compromise.

 “Initially, they applauded it as historic, but their stance changed in minutes. Securing a resolution that aligns with the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir was deliberate. This resolution sends a strong message; it signifies that Jammu and Kashmir’s unique status must be respected. If it were simply a compromise, it would not be causing so much concern in speeches from the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and others,” he said.

 He added” “we crafted this resolution carefully, so future possibilities remain open. I understand that expectations from the current central government are low, but they will never be always there, system will change someday. We will not restrict ourselves; we owe it to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to keep all options open. That is why we used those words in the resolution with deep thought. May be tomorrow there will not be my government here and center may have different government and roadmap will be easy for them. Situation will change, so why should we confine ourselves,” he said about resolution.

 “After the passing of this resolution, it feels as if a weight has been lifted. People are no longer afraid to speak; they feel their voices are being heard again. I am pleased to see that even the media, after years of constraint, is now able to speak freely,” he said. “To the people of Jammu and Kashmir, I promise that our agenda will always be shaped by your needs. Recently, we not only passed a resolution but also changed the school examination schedule to better suit our region, reversing one of the post-August 5, 2019 decisions. Recruitment processes are underway and will be accelerated.”

 Addressing the Lieutenant Governor’s address to the assembly on November 4, he expressed hope for meaningful discussions on restoring constitutional safeguards and statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.

 “Additionally, as mentioned in the Lieutenant Governor’s address, we plan to announce measures such as 200 units of free electricity, support for households through subsidized cylinders, and increased rations”. “While many powers have been transferred to this elected government, law and order remains outside our purview. But we assure the police and security forces that we will support all efforts to establish lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir, for without peace, progress cannot flourish,” Omar affirmed. “True peace cannot be achieved by force alone. There is a natural calm that comes through genuine partnership and trust-building”.

 “ On the inconvenience of travel on highway, Omar said: “I have spoken to law enforcement officials about practical solutions to ensure the security of the armed forces, while minimizing disruptions to civilians. We must also adopt a compassionate approach in areas such as verifications and handling of minor cases involving prisoners.”

 On the powers of J&K Assembly, Omar said, “this Assembly is not yet what we aspire it to be; we seek a full statehood in real sense, not a hybrid model. The Prime Minister has assured the restoration of statehood, and I am grateful to the Lieutenant Governor for endorsing this commitment and I went with resolution and submitted it in Delhi. I am hopeful that soon we will see results,” “I have met with the Union Power Minister, who has sanctioned 300 MW of electricity for the winter to reduce power cuts. The Roads & Transport Minister has assured us a special financial package to complete key infrastructure projects, and I plan to meet with the Finance Minister soon.”

Speaking on the land and jobs for locals, the chief minister said that people of J&K deserve to live with honour and dignity.

 “We deserve to live with honor and dignity. Our identity, our pride, and our survival are at stake. Like other states, we too should have control over our land, resources, and jobs. While we welcome outside investment, we will not sell our crown jewels, like Pahalgam or Gulmarg. These assets, built by our people, are not for sale”.

 “The people of Jammu and Kashmir can rest assured that we will honour our promises. The Lieutenant Governor’s address outlined a roadmap, but I assure you we will achieve much more. “This is our commitment to the state and its people,” he affirmed, vowing to uphold the dignity, identity, and aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir.

 However, he voiced disappointment over the disruptions that hindered such discourse. “A disorderly Assembly may benefit the government by avoiding accountability, but it betrays the public’s trust.”

The Chief Minister further outlined the significance of a recent resolution, stating it was no compromise but rather a message to reaffirm Jammu and Kashmir’s unique status.

#JAMMU: Sat Sharma, President BJP J&K, along with Sunil Sharma, Member of Legislative Assembly from Padder- Nagseni Constituency today called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan.