The Typewriter

Lieutenant Governor Joins Drug-Free J&K Awareness Campaign and Padyatra in Poonch

THE TYPEWRITER || JAMMU, JUNE 7
Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today participated in the Drug-Free J&K Awareness Campaign and Padyatra in Poonch, reiterating the administration's commitment to promoting a healthier and safer society across Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing participants, the Lieutenant Governor said that the padyatra has now covered all 20 districts of the Union Territory with the objective of spreading awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and encouraging community participation in prevention and rehabilitation efforts.

He called upon citizens, Panchayats, youth groups, and local communities to work together over the coming weeks to strengthen awareness initiatives, support rehabilitation measures, and promote healthy lifestyles.

The Lieutenant Governor said that during his visits to districts across Jammu and Kashmir, he interacted with people from different sections of society and emphasized the need for collective action to address social challenges affecting families and youth.

Highlighting the importance of community involvement, he urged people to make every village, ward, and neighborhood part of the awareness movement, ensuring that the message reaches every household.

Referring to Poonch's geographical location, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among citizens and institutions to protect young people from harmful influences and to support positive social development.

He said that lasting change requires active participation from communities, educational institutions, youth organizations, and families. He emphasized that awareness, education, skill development, sports, and employment opportunities can play a vital role in empowering young people and helping them build a brighter future.

The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted ongoing efforts by various departments and agencies to strengthen awareness campaigns, support rehabilitation initiatives, and ensure effective implementation of existing laws.

He called for greater involvement of Youth Clubs and women's groups, describing them as important partners in promoting awareness and encouraging positive social change at the grassroots level.

Reaffirming the administration's commitment to the campaign, he expressed confidence that sustained public participation and collective efforts would contribute to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.

Sunil Sharma Meets Union Home Minister Amit Shah; Discusses Security, Development and Political Situation in J&K

THE TYPEWRITER || NEW DELHI, JUNE 7 Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma today met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and held an extensive discussion on various issues concerning the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on the prevailing security scenario, law and order situation, developmental initiatives, and the overall political landscape of Jammu & Kashmir. Sunil Sharma apprised the Union Home Minister of various issues and concerns emerging from the ground and highlighted the aspirations of the people regarding peace, progress, and effective governance.

The meeting also reviewed the ongoing efforts of the Government of India to strengthen security, promote inclusive development, and deepen democratic institutions at the grassroots level. Both leaders emphasized the need to further consolidate the gains achieved in recent years and ensure that the benefits of development reach every section of society.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by Sunil Sharma and assured him that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains fully committed to ensuring lasting peace, strengthening security, accelerating development, and safeguarding the interests of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He reiterated that all necessary support would continue to be extended for the overall progress and prosperity of the Union Territory.

Sunil Sharma reiterated the Bharatiya Janata Party’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of the people of Jammu & Kashmir and working tirelessly for lasting peace, prosperity, and progress in the Union Territory. He said that under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed a new era of development, transparency, and empowerment.

The meeting reflects the continued focus of the BJP leadership on ensuring peace, security, and holistic development in Jammu & Kashmir wh

Satish Sharma hands over appointment orders to Anganwadi Workers; says govt prioritising development of border belts

THE TYPEWRITER || KHOUR, JUNE 7
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, today reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment towards the welfare of border residents, accelerated infrastructure development, employment generation and transparent governance.

The Minister was addressing a large public gathering at the historic Royal Palace, Khour.
The Minister's visit witnessed enthusiastic public participation, with several delegations, social organizations, youth groups and local representatives meeting him and extending their support to the government's developmental vision. The delegations projected a wide range of public issues and developmental demands concerning the border villages, infrastructure, employment opportunities, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, road connectivity and public welfare schemes.

Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that the government remains fully sensitive to the challenges faced by the people residing in border areas and is committed to ensure their safety, security and socio-economic upliftment. He emphasized that the concerns of border residents would continue to receive priority attention and assured that all genuine issues projected by the people would be vigorously pursued before the concerned authorities.

The Minister particularly highlighted the issue of compensation for the border residents who have suffered losses due to shelling and conflict-related incidents. He said that adequate and timely compensation for the affected families remains a matter of utmost importance. He reiterated that the government would continue to advocate for comprehensive relief measures to ensure that no affected family is left unattended.

Recalling the government's proactive response during recent hostilities along the Line of Control and border areas, Satish Sharma said that the administration successfully undertook one of the largest humanitarian evacuation efforts in the region. He said that nearly 70,000 people were safely shifted from vulnerable locations to safer places through coordinated efforts of various departments, with the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation playing a pivotal role by deploying its fleet for emergency transportation.

"The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our foremost priority. The coordinated evacuation and relief operations demonstrated the government's preparedness and commitment towards protecting the human lives during difficult circumstances," he said.

On the occasion, the Minister handed over appointment orders to the newly selected Anganwadi Workers. He described the Anganwadi network as one of the most important pillars of grassroots welfare delivery. He said that Anganwadi Workers play a vital role in strengthening the maternal and child health, nutritional support, early childhood education and community outreach.
Encouraging the newly appointed workers to perform their duties with sincerity and dedication, he said that their services would contribute significantly towards building a healthier and stronger society.

Reviewing the functioning of various departments, Satish Sharma directed the officers to remain accessible to the public and ensure timely redressal of their grievances. He stressed that governance must be people-centric and responsive, adding that public confidence can only be strengthened through efficient service delivery and accountability.

The Minister issued strict instructions to the departmental officers to expedite the pending works, maintain transparency in official functioning and ensure that government schemes reach the deserving beneficiaries without delay. He warned that negligence, bureaucratic delays and lack of accountability would not be tolerated and that strict action would be initiated wherever public interest is compromised.

Highlighting the developmental roadmap for the region, Satish Sharma informed the gathering that several important projects are currently in the pipeline for Khour and adjoining areas. These initiatives, he said, are aimed at improving the road connectivity, strengthening the public infrastructure, enhancing digital services, expanding educational and sports facilities besides creating new opportunities for youth engagement and employment.

The Minister further emphasized that technology-driven governance and scientific planning are playing an increasingly important role in accelerating development and improving public service delivery. He reiterated his commitment to leveraging innovation and modern administrative practices to ensure efficient implementation of government programmes.

Calling upon the citizens to actively participate in the developmental journey of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister said that meaningful progress can only be achieved through cooperation between the government and the people. He urged the public to continue engaging constructively with the administration and contribute towards building a prosperous, progressive and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir.

A large number of local residents, public representatives, youth, women, social activists and officers from various departments were present on the occasion.

Directorate of Tourism Jammu organizes Gool Mela

Thousands throng Narsingha Meadows in celebration of Culture, Heritage and Tourism

THE TYPEWRITER || RAMBAN, JUNE 07
In a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage and tourism, the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, in collaboration with district administration Ramban, organized a one-day Gool Mela at the picturesque Narsingha area amidst the lush green meadows of Gool Sub-Division. The cultural festival witnessed an overwhelming response, with more than ten thousand people thronging the venue from across Ramban and Reasi districts. The mela transformed the scenic destination into a vibrant hub of cultural festivities, attracting tourists, locals, youth and families alike.

The mela was inaugurated by MLA Banihal, Sajjad Shaheen, along with MLA Gulabgarh Khurshid Ahmad, Director Tourism Jammu Dr. Vikas Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan and SSP Ramban Arun Gupta.

Organized with the objective of promoting the immense tourism potential of the region, the mela served as a platform to showcase the rich cultural diversity, traditional heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Gool and its adjoining areas while highlighting the region’s potential as an emerging tourist destination.
MLA Banihal highlighted the vast tourism potential of Gool and Banihal areas and emphasized the need for sustained efforts to develop the region as a major tourist destination. He lauded the efforts of Directorate of Tourism Jammu for organizing the mela and creating opportunities for promoting local culture, handicrafts, traditional art forms and scenic attractions.

Director Tourism Jammu highlighted the promotional initiatives being undertaken in Tourism Department under the leadership of Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir.

He emphasized that on the directions of Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Dr Ashish Chander Verma, the department is actively identifying and developing new tourist destinations across the Jammu especially offbeat destinations like Gool, Neeltop, Margantop, Mohu Valley, Tattapani to diversify tourism offerings and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. He assured continued support for promoting the tourism potential of Ramban district and strengthening tourism infrastructure in emerging destinations.

Deputy Commissioner Ramban highlighted the growing tourism prospects of Ramban district and called upon the youth to actively contribute towards promoting tourism and preserving the environment. He urged the youth to join hands with the district administration in making Ramban a drug-free district under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan. He appreciated the Tourism Department for its efforts in promoting lesser-known and offbeat destinations across the district.

SSP Arun Gupta emphasized the importance of community participation in combating drug abuse and reiterated the commitment of the Police Department towards realizing the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.

A major attraction of the mela was the array of stalls established by various government departments, local entrepreneurs, Self-Help Groups and artisans. Vibrant displays of local handicrafts, handloom products and traditional artefacts drew significant public interest and highlighted the rich craftsmanship of the region.

Food stalls offering authentic local delicacies and traditional cuisines remained crowded throughout the day, providing visitors with a glimpse of the area’s rich culinary heritage. The mela provided an excellent platform for local artisans, weavers and entrepreneurs to showcase and market their products while promoting local livelihoods and rural tourism.

The dignitaries visited the stalls and interacted with exhibitors, artisans and visitors. They appreciated the efforts made to promote local crafts, handloom products, indigenous cuisine and government welfare initiatives under a common platform.

The cultural segment remained the major attraction of the event. Renowned singers Bishan Dass and Chaman Lehri, along with other artists and students enthralled the audience with vibrant performances depicting the rich folk traditions, music and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Their captivating presentations added colour and festive spirit to the celebrations and received enthusiastic appreciation from the gathering. General public of the area extended gratitude to government of Jammu and Kashmir especially Directorate of tourism Jammu for organizing such an event in Gool area.

On the occasion, the dignitaries felicitated artists and performers in recognition of their valuable contribution towards preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

The programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Varunjeet Singh Charak, Joint Director Tourism Aijaz Qaiser, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Shoket Hayat Mattoo, Deputy Director (Planning), Tourism, Mamta Sharma, Deputy Director Publicity Tourism, Savita Chouhan, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Imtiaz Ahmed, district and sectoral officers, representatives of various departments, prominent citizens, members of civil society, local artisans and a large number of visitors from across the region.

The successful organization of the Gool Mela not only celebrated the region’s rich cultural legacy but also reinforced the commitment of the Tourism Department towards promoting rural and offbeat destinations, thereby contributing to inclusive, sustainable and community-driven tourism development across Jammu and Kashmir.