Category: Uncategorized

Emphasizes strict financial discipline, avoiding cost, time overruns

SRINAGAR, JULY 29: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Civil Secretariat here to assess the physical and financial progress achieved under the Strengthening and Augmentation of State Capabilities for Citizen-Centric Infrastructure (SASCI), CAPEX Budget and other flagship developmental schemes being implemented by the Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education departments besides implementation of key budget announcements in these departments.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare, Sarmad Hafeez; Commissioner Secretary Education, Ram Niwas Sharma; Mission Director ICDS, Mission Director RUSA, Mission Director Samagra Shiksha, Director School Education Jammu/Kashmir, Director Health Jammu/Kashmir, Special Secretaries of concerned departments, Director Planning/Finance of concerned departments, and other senior officers.

The Minister conducted a detailed department-wise review of the status of ongoing infrastructure projects, expenditure under CAPEX allocations, implementation of SASCI initiatives and other flagship programmes aimed at strengthening the public service delivery across Jammu and Kashmir.

Sakeena Itoo directed the officers to ensure timely completion of all sanctioned projects without compromising on quality standards. She stressed that every developmental initiative must translate into tangible benefits for the people and contribute towards strengthening essential public infrastructure here.

The Minister underscored the importance of effective planning, inter-departmental coordination and regular monitoring to achieve the desired outcomes. She instructed the officers to remove bottlenecks delaying execution of projects and adopt a result-oriented approach for ensuring optimal utilisation of funds.

Sakeena Itoo reiterated the government’s commitment towards transparent, accountable and people-centric governance, asserting that development projects must be executed efficiently to maximise public benefit.

“Maintain strict financial discipline, adhere to prescribed timelines and ensure regular monitoring of the progress of all projects to avoid cost and time overruns”, she said.

The Minister directed the departments to strengthen the field-level supervision, improve coordination among executing agencies and ensure periodic reviews so that all flagship schemes are implemented effectively and their intended objectives are achieved within the prescribed timeframe.

Taking stock of the School and Higher Education Departments, the Minister highlighted the importance of upgrading educational infrastructure and creating a conducive learning environment for students. She directed the officers to expedite construction and upgradation works, ensuring that educational institutions are equipped with the necessary facilities to support quality education.

Regarding the education department, the Minister was informed that 24228 schools, both public and private are operational in Jammu and Kashmir, including 37 KVs, 20 JNVs and six schools of Tribal affairs department, with total enrolment of about 2657883 students. It was also given out that among 1421 works proposed under UT CAPEX 2026-27, 786 works are targeted for completion with 90 works already stand completed.

It was also informed that under SASCI, a total outlay of Rs 2648.89 lakh has been proposed for various kinds of works across UT. Under Samagra Shiksha, it was revealed that 3019 Civil works have been completed in last one and half years. It was also informed that skill education has been introduced in 1350 high and higher secondary schools, besides 3008 digital Labs have been established while as 2388 ICT Labs and 4597 smart classrooms are in the process of establishment. The meeting was also informed that 396 schools have been approved for upgradation under PM-SHRI scheme while 45 Atal Tinkering Labs and 159 STEM Labs have already been established in approved schools under this scheme.

Regarding higher education department, the Minister was informed that for the year 2026-27, Rs. 468 crore have been approved for allocation, with Rs. 227.71 crore available for spending. It was given out that under PM-USHA RUSA for the year 2026-27, Rs. 75.35 crores have been outlayed for various works. The meeting was also informed that some major projects have been targeted for completion during 2026-27 under Capex like Construction of five College Buildings, 14 New Additional Blocks/Administrative Blocka, 4 Science Blocks, 12 Additional Classroom Blocks, 11 Automation of libraries, 8 Multipurpose Halls, two Library Blocks, three Girls/Boys Hostels and 12 Smart Class rooms. Under SASCI, it was informed that 21 works with an outlay of Rs. 71.77 crores will be carried out during 2026-27.

Reviewing the Health and Medical Education Department, Sakeena Itoo emphasized the need to accelerate the pace of infrastructure development in hospitals and health institutions besides ensuring availability of quality healthcare services. She directed the concerned officers to closely monitor all ongoing works under SASCI and CAPEX and complete them within the stipulated timelines.

The Minister was informed that 64 Dialysis centers, with 2 each in 32 SDHs/CHCs of various districts have been established. It was also informed that Cath Labs for GMC Doda and GMC Baramulla will be established during the current fiscal besides PET scan at an estimated cost of Rs. 35 crore will also be established in GMC Srinagar and GMC Kathua. The meeting was also informed that 51 AI X-ray machines at a cost of Rs. 2.50 crore have been proposed for the current fiscal as well as lift and oxygen plant maintenance for Rs. 9.50 crore.

While reviewing the Social Welfare Department, the Minister called for effective implementation of welfare schemes and directed officials to ensure that benefits reach all eligible beneficiaries in a transparent and time-bound manner. She also stressed the need to strengthen the institutional infrastructure for improved delivery of social welfare services.

The Minister emphasized that sustained monitoring, accountability and efficient execution remain key to achieve the developmental goals envisioned by the Government, while reiterating her commitment to improve healthcare, education and social welfare infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir

During the meeting, senior officers briefed the Minister about the current status of ongoing projects, financial expenditure, achievements made so far and challenges being faced during implementation. They assured the Minister that all necessary efforts are being made to expedite execution of developmental works and ensure timely completion of projects in accordance with the Government’s priorities.

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.

 

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.

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

Nubra, 28 July 2026: Deputy Commissioner, Nubra, Shri Mukul Beniwal, IAS, reviewed the implementation of the NRLM in Nubra District during a meeting with concerned officials.

 

The meeting reviewed the financial inclusion status of Panamik, Diskit and Turtuk, including SHGs with bank accounts, Revolving Fund and Community Investment Fund support, loan and repayment structures, interest rates and cadre details. The status of livelihood activities and SHG products was also reviewed.

 

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officials to make the VDVK for seabuckthorn functional and stressed the need to strengthen market linkages, product labelling and packaging for the all products. He further directed that training programmes be organised and more people be encouraged to participate in livelihood activities.

 

The Deputy Commissioner assured that the administration would extend all necessary support in overcoming the challenges discussed like market access, overcoming skill gap, transportation and strengthening livelihood opportunities in the district.

 

The meeting was attended by BDOs of Nubra District and BPM ,NRLM.

JAMMU, JULY 28: To mark World Nature Conservation Day, the Forest Department, in collaboration with members of the Tree Talk Group and Vibe Tribe Club, Jammu organised a Nature Walk and Tree Talk programme in the Sidhra forestlands.

The event aimed to acquaint forest field staff, wilderness explorers, herbal innovators and botany experts with the rich biodiversity of the neighbourhood forests while promoting awareness about conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

The programme commenced with a ceremonial tree plantation. Among those present were Pradeep Wahule, Conservator East Circle Anurag Arya, Divisional Forest Officer Jammu Bishan Das Thakur, Divisional Forest Officer Research Division Kalpna Vinay, founder of Tree Talk Om Prakash Sharma “Vidyarthi” and herbal innovator Pooja Kapoor Suri.

During the nature walk, Om Prakash Sharma “Vidyarthi” introduced participants to the diverse flora of the Sidhra forests and highlighted the edible, medicinal and ornamental significance of several important species.

Under the guidance of herbal innovator Pooja Kapoor Suri, Om Prakash Sharma “Vidyarthi” and Dev Raj Sharma, forest field staff displayed plant specimens, edible flowers, seasonal leafy vegetables, aromatic and medicinal plants, quality saplings and a range of forest-based foods.

The exhibition featured Oleaster Sauce, Tinbru Chutney, Gokhru Snacks, Punarnava Pakodas, Commelina Snacks, Trianthema Pakodas, Rhododendron Tea, Arjun Bark Tea, Mango Modak, Vidari Kheer, Parijat Tea, Gwalmanda Dahi and other value-added forest products.

Addressing the gathering, Pradeep Wahule said forests are vital ecosystems supporting an extraordinary diversity of plants and wildlife and cautioned that overexploitation of natural resources leads to soil degradation, depletion of water resources and the decline of threatened species.

Participants planted indigenous and ecologically important tree species, including Butea monosperma, Bauhinia variegata, Terminalia chebula, Azadirachta indica, Moringa oleifera, Erythrina indica, Syzygium cumini and Sapindus mukorossi.

 

SRINAGAR, JULY 28: Multiple deputations, including Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from different constituencies today called on Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, at the Civil Secretariat here and discussed a wide range of public welfare issues.

The legislators who met the Minister included Hilal Akbar Lone, Sajjad Shaheen, Irshad Rasool Kar, Pyare Lal Sharma, Saifuddin Bhat, Randhir Singh and Zafar Ali Khatana.

During the interaction, the MLAs apprised the Minister of the developmental needs and public concerns of their respective constituencies. They highlighted issues related to drinking water supply, irrigation infrastructure, flood protection measures, road connectivity, healthcare, education and other sectoral requirements, while also seeking timely execution of ongoing development works.

The legislators urged the Minister to ensure early completion of projects of public importance and called for effective coordination among the departments to address the aspirations of the people.

Giving a patient hearing to each of the legislators, Javed Rana assured them that all their genuine issues projected during the meetings would receive due attention. He directed the concerned officers to examine the matters on priority and take appropriate action wherever required.

The Minister reiterated that the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed to strengthen the public service delivery, ensuring that developmental benefits reach every region in a fair and transparent manner. He said the government remains focused on responsive governance, prompt resolution of public grievances and accelerated implementation of infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life of the people.

Emphasising close coordination between the public representatives and the administration, the Minister said that the elected legislators play a vital role in identifying the developmental priorities of their constituencies and ensuring that governance remains people-centric. He said the government values their feedback and will continue to work in close consultation with them to achieve balanced and inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir.

Later, a delegation of contractors associated with the Jal Shakti Department also called on the Minister and projected issues related to pending payments and execution of departmental works.

The Minister gave a patient hearing to the delegation and assured them that all their genuine concerns would be examined and addressed in accordance with the rules.