Himalayan Express

Author: Himalayan Express

  • Chief Secretary assesses progress of RIDF projects worth over ₹4,300 Cr

    Chief Secretary assesses progress of RIDF projects worth over ₹4,300 Cr

    SRINAGAR, JULY 29: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting of the High Powered Committee (HPC) constituted for reviewing the implementation of NABARD projects being executed under various tranches of the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF).

    The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works (R&B); Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Director General, Resources; Chief General Manager, NABARD; and senior officers from Health, Jal Shakti and other concerned departments.

    The Chief Secretary impressed upon the concerned departments to maintain a ready shelf of projects complete in all respects, including Administrative Approval and Technical Sanction, so that the same can be submitted to NABARD immediately upon the opening of a new RIDF tranche or receipt of sanction, thereby ensuring timely appraisal, approval and commencement of works without any avoidable delay.

    The Chief Secretary emphasised that RIDF has emerged as one of the most significant sources of institutional finance for strengthening rural infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. He observed that the successful implementation of these projects is vital for improving rural connectivity, irrigation facilities, agricultural productivity, drinking water infrastructure, horticulture, fisheries and other essential public services.

    He further instructed the departments to closely monitor the physical and financial progress of each project, conduct periodic field inspections, strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure compliance with NABARD guidelines. The executing agencies were also advised to maintain the highest standards of quality, transparency and accountability during project implementation.

    On this occasion the Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Shailendra Kumar underscored the need for regular monitoring at all administrative levels so that the benefits of RIDF investments reach efficiently to the intended beneficiaries. He suggested constitution of District level monitoring Committees under the respective Deputy Commissioners for time-bound implementation of such projects here.

    A detailed presentation was made by CGM, NABARD informing the Committee that 908 projects sanctioned under RIDF Tranches XXVIII to XXXI involve a cumulative loan assistance of ₹4,303.08 crore, against which an amount of ₹2,301.48 crore has been disbursed so far. Additionally out of the total sanctioned projects, 157 projects have been completed, while 751 projects are presently under execution.

    The Committee also reviewed the department-wise implementation status of RIDF projects. It was informed that the Public Works Department (PWD) accounts for the largest share with 660 projects involving a total loan assistance of ₹2,987.25 crore, followed by the Jal Shakti Department with 36 projects worth ₹491.93 crore, the Agriculture Production Department (APD) with 110 projects involving ₹414.27 crore, the Horticulture Department with 19 projects worth ₹104.52 crore, the Animal/Sheep Husbandry & Fisheries Department with 63 projects amounting to ₹190.14 crore, and H&ME with 20 projects involving ₹114.97 crore.

    Overall, 908 projects with a cumulative loan assistance of ₹4,303.08 crore have been sanctioned under RIDF Tranches XXVIII to XXXI, against which ₹2,301.48 crore has been disbursed. A total of 157 projects have been completed, while 751 projects are under execution, with 193 Scheme Monitoring Proformas (SMPs) currently under monitoring.

    The meeting concluded with a comprehensive review of department-wise progress, identification of critical issues requiring immediate intervention, and issuance of directions for ensuring timely completion of all ongoing RIDF projects across the Union Territory.

  • 14 killed, dozens injured in PoJK clashes during first phase of polling

    14 killed, dozens injured in PoJK clashes during first phase of polling

    At least 14 activists of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) were killed and more than two dozen injured in clashes with law-enforcement personnel during the first phase of elections for the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK), the organisation claimed on Tuesday.

    Law enforcement authorities in the region, however, disputed the death toll and accused JAAC protesters of opening fire on security personnel.

    The JAAC has been holding a series of protests in PoK since last month over 12 contentious seats of the so-called regional legislative assembly. It alleges that the establishment manoeuvres these seats to install a prime minister of its choosing.

    As the first phase of polls was held on Monday on 13 seats, the JAAC held a long march from Rawalakot towards the regional capital Muzaffarabad.

    The JAAC claimed that its activists were killed when law-enforcement personnel opened fire on participants of the long march. The party’s claim could not be independently verified.

    JAAC core committee member Abid Shaheen told BBC that around a dozen activists had been killed and more than 20 wounded during clashes on Monday.

    Another committee member, Imtiaz Aslam, put the death toll at 14 and said those killed included Usman Nazir, younger brother of JAAC founding member Umar Nazir.

    Shaheen claimed the bodies had been taken to a medical camp near Drek, where the JAAC has been staging a sit-in for one-and-a-half months.

    The JAAC also denied that its marchers were armed, saying they carried only sticks. The claim was rejected by PoJK police chief Captain (retd.) Liaquat Ali Malik, who alleged that protesters possessed modern weapons and were targeting security personnel.

    Malik said the reported deaths could not be verified until bodies were recovered, officially recorded or brought to hospitals for post-mortem examinations.

    He recalled that during an operation against the JAAC last month, the group had claimed 400 deaths, whereas five fatalities had been recorded officially.

    Malik, however, confirmed that a Rangers personnel was killed and two others wounded in firing during the clashes. Two police personnel were also injured.

    He said the JAAC activists positioned in the mountains opened fire on police and security personnel after darkness fell as the protesters attempted to advance towards Rawalakot.

    According to a Rawalakot district administration officer, around 3,000 protesters had marched towards the city from Drek, while another group of around 2,000 approached from the bus terminal side. The authorities prevented the protesters from entering the city.

    In Poonch region, police claimed that armed groups associated with the banned JAAC attempted to enter Rawalakot and opened fire on law-enforcement personnel after being asked to disperse, injuring two policemen.

    The police also accused JAAC-linked social media accounts of circulating fabricated videos and distorting facts to mislead the public.

    JAAC executive council member Shaheen, however, rejected the allegations and accused law-enforcement personnel of opening “unprovoked fire” on a peaceful long march. He vowed that the march would continue to Muzaffarabad.

    The confrontation comes amid weeks of protests by the JAAC over its demand for the abolition of 12 legislative assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees.

    The group began protests and a long march across PoK on June 9. Before Monday’s violence, 40 people had reportedly been killed during the unrest, including 34 protesters and six police and paramilitary personnel.

    Meanwhile, The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) won nine out of 13 seats in the first phase of elections held in PoJK, the Election Commission said on Tuesday.

    There were allegations of massive rigging in the first phase of the polls held on Monday, in which the Pakistan’s People Party (PPP) won the remaining seats.

    The elections for 45 contesting seats in the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are happening in three phases between July 27 and August 10 amid widespread violence.

    According to preliminary results issued by the PoK Election Commission on Tuesday, the PML-N led by the Sharif brothers – Nawaz and Shehbaz – emerged as the winner in nine constituencies while the PPP led by the Bhuttos secured four seats.

    Both parties are coalition partners in the federal government. It is a direct contest between the two in PoK because former prime minister Imran Khan’s party Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf has boycotted the polls.

    There are 53 seats in the so-called PoK legislative assembly – 45 are directly elected, while eight are reserved for women, technocrats and clerics.

    Alleging rigging in seven seats, PPP senior leader Nayyar Bokhari said: “Our winning seats have been gifted to the PML-N.”

    Other senior PPP leaders have demanded the Election Commission not to announce results till investigation of rigging in certain constituencies is not completed.(PTI)

  • Schools closed in Doda, most parts of Kishtwar due to inclement weather

    Schools closed in Doda, most parts of Kishtwar due to inclement weather

    Authorities on Wednesday ordered the closure of schools in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda and most parts of Kishtwar district as a precautionary measure in the wake of adverse weather conditions, officials said.

    However, the schools have been directed to continue online classes in both districts, the officials said.

    Acting on the directions of the district development commissioner, Doda, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda ordered closure of all overnment and private schools across the district on July 29 as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.

    In adjoining Kishtwar district, the district administration also ordered the closure of all government and private schools, citing continuous heavy rainfall, slippery roads and the possibility of shooting stones.

    The order, however, exempted schools located within Kishtwar city, from Malipeth to Cherhar, which remained open.

    Moderate to heavy rainfall began around 5 am across the Chenab Valley, including Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban.

    Officials said they are closely monitoring the situation after the weather department forecast moderate to heavy rainfall till August 31.

    Meanwhile, the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with rest of the country remained open for traffic despite the ongoing rain.

  • Assam flood: Toll at 75 with 7 more deaths, 3.32 lakh remain affected

    Assam flood: Toll at 75 with 7 more deaths, 3.32 lakh remain affected

    The toll in the Assam flood has risen to 75 with seven more deaths reported in the last 24 hours even though the number of affected people has decreased to 3.32 lakh, officials said on Wednesday.

    The state government has increased the ex gratia amount to the families of the deceased to Rs 9 lakh each and relaxed norms for availing the compensation, they said.

    The seven districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon, Sonitpur and Kamrup Metropolitan are still reeling under the deluge, affecting 21 revenue circles and 622 villages, the officials said.

    The flood-hit population was at 3.32 lakh, and Charaideo was the worst-hit district with 1.42 lakh people impacted, followed by Sivasagar (97,074) and Jorhat (57,371).

    The seven fatalities on Tuesday were reported from Nazria revenue circle of Sivasagar district, taking the toll in the floods this year to 75, the officials said.

    On Monday, six districts had been affected by the deluge, with 4.45 lakh people impacted.

    Altogether 81 relief camps were operational in the affected districts, in which 32,477 displaced people have taken shelter. Another 34 relief distribution centres were also functioning.

    Multiple agencies, including the Army, Air Force, NDRF, SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services and civil volunteers, continued to carry out relief and rescue operations.

    A crop area of 45,341.98 hectares has been submerged, while damage to various infrastructure like houses, cow sheds, schools and anganwadi centres was also reported from across the flood-hit districts.

    The intra circle roaming (ICR) facility has been extended in the flood-affected areas of Sivasagar until 11:59 PM on July 30 or until further orders, to ensure uninterrupted mobile phone connectivity, the officials said.

    The ICR facility will also be “available to all in-roamers in the district, enabling subscribers of different telecom service providers to stay connected even if their own network is not connected”, one of the officials said.

    Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said special attention was being given to affected children to help them tide through the difficult times.

    “Creating a congenial atmosphere for children in relief camps remains our focus. Dedicated spaces for learning & playing are helping ensure that the impact of floods does not interrupt their childhood and they are not adversely affected due to the ongoing situation,” the CM said in a post on social media on Wednesday, sharing photos of children engaged in learning activities in relief camps.

    Sarma, in a Facebook Live on Tuesday evening, had announced relaxation in norms for providing ex gratia to the next of kin of those killed or missing in the floods this year.

    He said mandatory submission of post-mortem report to avail the one-time grant from the government has been waived, with a certificate from the circle officer to suffice.

    “Over and above the Rs 4 lakh ex gratia per victim that is paid at present, we have decided to give additional Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased from the CM’s Relief Fund,” he said.

    In case of people missing in floods, Sarma said it has been decided that an ex gratia of Rs 9 lakh will be granted to the victims’ families if the bodies are not found within a month, with the circle officer authorised to issue the necessary certificate.

    For families severely affected in the four worst-hit districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat, the government will provide an interim amount of Rs 15,000, which can be utilised for their household needs, the chief minister said.

    For students of Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, the government will once again grant aid for free uniforms and textbooks, besides providing a monetary grant to buy books for higher secondary, undergraduate and postgraduate students.

  • Chief Secretary inspects Solid Resource Management Centres at Solar Colony, Thiksay, Kharu and Chuchot Yokma

    Chief Secretary inspects Solid Resource Management Centres at Solar Colony, Thiksay, Kharu and Chuchot Yokma

     

    Leh, July 28: Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, today visited the Solid Resource Management Centres (SRMCs) at Solar Colony, Thiksay, Kharu and Chuchot Yokma to review the functioning of the facilities and inspect the ongoing solid waste management operations.

    During the visit, the Chief Secretary inspected the waste segregation, processing and disposal mechanisms at each centre and assessed the overall efficiency of the solid waste management system. He interacted with the sanitation and waste management workers, appreciating their dedication and consistent efforts in maintaining cleanliness and ensuring scientific management of solid waste.

     

    Shri Kundra emphasised the importance of efficient waste collection, segregation, processing and disposal to promote environmental sustainability and improve public sanitation. He directed the concerned officers to ensure the smooth functioning of all SRMCs, strengthen operational efficiency and effectively manage the workload at each facility.

     

    The Chief Secretary also instructed the officials to ensure that waste lying in and around the centres is cleared promptly and that the premises are maintained in a clean and hygienic condition. He stressed the need for regular monitoring, timely disposal of accumulated waste and better coordination among the concerned departments for effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules.

     

    He further underlined the importance of public participation in waste segregation at source and encouraged the concerned agencies to continue creating awareness among citizens on proper waste management practices.

     

    The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Member Secretary, Ladakh Pollution Control Committee (LPCC), Shri Mandeep Mittal; Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Shri Romil Singh Donk; Special OSD to the Chief Secretary, Shri Moses Kunzang; District Panchayat Officer, Leh; Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Leh, Shri Stanzin Rabgais; Block Development Officer(BDO) Chucoat , Shri Ghulam Mohd; and officials from the Ladakh Renewable Energy Development Agency (LREDA), Rural Development Department and Municipal Committee Leh.

  • Chief Secretary reviews Budget Expenditure for FY 2026–27, Calls for Improved Fund Utilisation and Timely Execution of Development Works

    Chief Secretary reviews Budget Expenditure for FY 2026–27, Calls for Improved Fund Utilisation and Timely Execution of Development Works

    Leh, July 28, 2026: Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the budget expenditure and financial performance of various departments for the financial year 2026–27. The meeting focused on improving expenditure efficiency, ensuring timely utilisation of allocated funds and accelerating the implementation of developmental projects across the Union Territory.

     

    At the outset, Secretary, Finance Department, Sh. Tsewang Tharchin, IA&AS, gave a detailed presentation on the overall budget performance.

     

    The presentation covered the budget estimate break-up as per the Demands for Grants for the financial year 2026–27, composition of the budget estimates, overall budget performance dashboard, State and LAHDC-wise allocations, quarterly expenditure comparison, up-to-date expenditure, Monthly Expenditure Plan (MEP), capital expenditure under Major Head 4575, department-wise allocation and expenditure, utilisation rankings and object head-wise analysis covering motor vehicles, machinery and equipment, ICT equipment, buildings and structures, infrastructure assets, furniture and fixtures, heritage asset upgradation, other fixed assets and land.

     

    Reviewing the presentation, the Chief Secretary undertook a department-wise assessment of expenditure trends and utilisation levels. He directed the concerned departments to ensure timely implementation of approved projects and improve the pace of expenditure, particularly under capital works, so that developmental objectives are achieved within the prescribed timelines.

     

    Expressing concern over the low utilisation of funds in certain departments and sectors, the Chief Secretary instructed the Finance and Planning Departments to closely monitor expenditure and identify departments where the pace of spending remains unsatisfactory. He directed that such departments be asked to furnish reasons for the delay and submit concrete action plans for improving financial and physical progress.

     

    The Chief Secretary further directed that funds lying unutilised for prolonged periods should be identified at an early stage so that they can be reallocated to departments and projects capable of utilising them effectively within the current financial year. He emphasised that optimal utilisation of public funds is essential for achieving developmental outcomes.

     

    While reviewing sector-wise allocations, he examined expenditure under infrastructure development, urban development, rural development, education, municipal services and other key sectors. He stressed the need for continuous monitoring of revenue and capital expenditure to ensure balanced financial performance throughout the year.

     

    The Chief Secretary also reviewed expenditure under various object heads, including procurement of motor vehicles, garbage collection vehicles, ambulances, machinery, ICT equipment, buildings, furniture and other infrastructure assets. He directed the concerned departments to ensure that procurement and execution are undertaken in a timely and transparent manner in accordance with approved plans.

     

    Emphasising the importance of uninterrupted execution of development works, the Chief Secretary directed the Planning Department to issue necessary instructions to ensure that contractors continue work during the permissible working season. He observed that, barring periods of severe winter, construction activities should continue as far as practicable so that projects are completed within the stipulated timelines.

    He further directed that future project proposals should comprehensively include all essential components, including furniture, fixtures and allied infrastructure, wherever required, to facilitate the timely operationalisation of completed assets.

     

    The Chief Secretary also reviewed issues relating to land compensation, municipal infrastructure, solid waste management assets and other ongoing capital projects. He instructed the concerned departments to strengthen planning, improve coordination and ensure timely completion of all sanctioned works.

     

    Highlighting the need for evidence-based financial management, the Chief Secretary directed the Finance and Planning Departments to prepare periodic sector-wise analytical snapshots of expenditure covering major sectors such as education, infrastructure, Special Development Package (SDP) projects and other capital works. He stated that such consolidated assessments would facilitate better monitoring, informed decision-making and timely corrective interventions.

     

    The Chief Secretary reiterated that regular expenditure reviews, strict financial discipline and close coordination among departments are essential for achieving the developmental priorities of the Union Territory and ensuring effective utilisation of public resources.

     

    The meeting was attended by Secretary, Planning Department, Himashu Gupta; Secretary, Finance Department, Sh. Tsewang Tharchan, IA&AS; Joint Director, Finance; Joint Director, Planning; and other senior officers of the concerned departments.

  • Administrative Secretary, Social & Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh Nidhi Malik Reviews Progress of Under-Construction Welfare Institutions in Kargil

    Administrative Secretary, Social & Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh Nidhi Malik Reviews Progress of Under-Construction Welfare Institutions in Kargil

    Kargil, July 27, 2026: The Administrative Secretary, Social & Tribal Welfare Department, UT Ladakh, Ms. Nidhi Malik (IAS), conducted an inspection of the under-construction welfare institutions at Upper Plateau, Kurbathang, Kargil to review the progress and quality of ongoing works. She was accompanied by the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), Kargil, Dr. Sarwar Shahzad (JKAS).

     

    During the visit, the Administrative Secretary inspected the construction of the Observation-cum-Special Home, Open Shelter, Old Age Home, and Working Women Hostel. The inspection aimed to assess the status of the projects and ensure that the works are progressing in accordance with the approved plans and prescribed standards.

     

    While reviewing the construction activities, Ms. Nidhi Malik directed the executing agencies to expedite the remaining works and complete all pending formalities within the stipulated timeframe. She emphasized that the institutions should be handed over only after ensuring full compliance with the approved Detailed Project Report (DPR) and all prescribed quality and safety standards.

     

    The Administrative Secretary stressed the importance of timely completion of these vital welfare infrastructure projects so that they can be made operational at the earliest to serve children, women, and senior citizens requiring care and protection. She reiterated the commitment of the Social & Tribal Welfare Department towards strengthening the child protection and social welfare delivery system in the Union Territory under the framework of Mission Vatsalya.

     

    The Accounts Officer, Social & Tribal Welfare Department, UT Ladakh, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, Kargil; officials of the District Social Welfare Office, Kargil, and representatives of the executing agencies also accompanied the Administrative Secretary during the inspection.

  • Over 2,000 Amarnath Pilgrims Leave Jammu in 22nd Batch

    Over 2,000 Amarnath Pilgrims Leave Jammu in 22nd Batch

    A fresh batch of 2,051 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Wednesday for the Baltal base camp to undertake the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra under multi-layer security arrangements, officials said.

    According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 22nd batch left at 2:45 a.m. in a convoy of 82 vehicles comprising 48 buses, eight medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 25 light motor vehicles (LMVs) and one two-wheeler.

    The batch includes 1,570 male pilgrims, 369 women, two children, 58 sadhus, 21 sadhvis, one child sadhu and 30 foreign nationals, including 14 men and 16 women.

    Officials said all the pilgrims are travelling via the Baltal route, while no convoy was scheduled for the traditional Pahalgam route.

    The convoy is proceeding towards the Baltal base camp under tight security and is expected to cross the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway subject to traffic movement and weather conditions.

    With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Jammu base camp for the holy cave shrine during this year’s Shri Amarnath Yatra has reached 1,32,406, officials added.

  • DIET Leh Commences Four-Day SEE Learning Training for PM SHRI School Teachers

    DIET Leh Commences Four-Day SEE Learning Training for PM SHRI School Teachers

     

    Leh, July 27, 2026: The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Leh today commenced a four-day Social, Emotional and Ethical (SEE) Learning training programme for teachers of PM SHRI Schools representing all six educational zones of Leh district. A total of 30 teachers are participating in the capacity-building programme.

     

    The inaugural session was graced by Sh. Sonam Dorje Namgyal, Principal, DIET Leh, who warmly welcomed all the participants and resource persons. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the significance of SEE Learning in the holistic development of children. He urged the participants to take the training with utmost sincerity and commitment, as it addresses the social, emotional, and ethical well-being of children, particularly those who require sensitive care, understanding, and a supportive learning environment.

     

    The Principal highlighted that under the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, schools are expected to nurture not only academic excellence but also compassion, empathy, resilience, emotional intelligence, and ethical values among learners. He encouraged teachers to integrate the principles of SEE Learning into their daily classroom practices to create safe, inclusive, and child-friendly schools.

     

    The training is being facilitated by Smt. Tsering Angmo, Lecturer in Sociology and SEE Learning Expert, along with Sh. Nishant Payal, Programme Manager, Piramal Foundation. The resource persons will guide participants through interactive sessions, practical activities, and reflective exercises focusing on emotional awareness, ethical decision-making, relationship-building, compassion, mindfulness, and creating positive classroom environments.

     

    The four-day programme aims to strengthen teachers’ professional competencies in promoting students’ social, emotional, and ethical development, enabling them to foster caring, resilient, and inclusive learning communities in PM SHRI Schools across the district.

  • Deputy Commissioner, Sham Chairs Meeting to Review Preparations for 80th Independence Day Celebrations

    Deputy Commissioner, Sham Chairs Meeting to Review Preparations for 80th Independence Day Celebrations

    Khaltsi, 27 July 2026: The Deputy Commissioner, Sham, Smt. Kunzes Angmo (JKAS), today chaired a meeting at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Sham, to review and finalize preparations for the celebration of the 80th Independence Day in Sham District.

     

    During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to ensure seamless coordination and timely completion of all arrangements for the national event. Detailed discussions were held on venue preparation, cultural programmes, parade arrangements, electricity and water supply, medical facilities, PA System and other logistical requirements.

     

    The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that all departments must diligently discharge their assigned responsibilities to ensure that the celebrations are conducted in a well-organized, dignified, and patriotic manner.

     

    The meeting was attended by SSP Sham Aijaz Malik (JKPS), Sub-Divisional Magistrates Mohd Sharif (Khaltsi) and Gurmet Namgail (Likir), Executive Engineer R&B Ghulam Abass, Accounts Officer to DC Tashi Norboo, as well as principals, headmasters, officers and officials of all concerned departments. The participants reviewed their respective responsibilities and assured full cooperation for the successful conduct of the 80th Independence Day celebrations in Sham District.