On October 23, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha paid heartfelt tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh, the former Dogra ruler, as the region celebrated his 130th birth anniversary. Sinha highlighted the enduring legacy of the Maharaja, who played a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a message shared on social media platform X, Sinha stated, “Tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh Ji on his Janm-Jayanti. A statesman of excellence and harbinger of change, he introduced landmark reforms to ensure the welfare of common man.” His tribute reflects both respect for historical contributions and a vision for the future.

Maharaja Hari Singh ascended the throne in 1925 and ruled until 1947, a period during which he implemented key reforms that significantly impacted the lives of the common people. His initiatives aimed to modernize the state’s agriculture, healthcare, and education systems. Notably, he established several institutions that continue to function and serve the public today.

The L-G emphasized that the Maharaja’s vision of inclusive governance remains a source of inspiration. “His legacy of inclusive governance and progressive vision continues to inspire us,” Sinha remarked. The statement underlines the need to draw lessons from the past while steering towards a better future.

The tribute event witnessed participation from various dignitaries and citizens who remembered Maharaja Hari Singh’s contributions. His reign laid the foundations for several welfare programs that are still relevant in contemporary governance discussions.

As Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, reflections on the leadership of figures like Maharaja Hari Singh become increasingly significant. His contributions serve as a reminder of the enduring power of visionary governance. Celebrating such anniversaries not only honors the past but also encourages current and future leaders to focus on inclusive and progressive initiatives.

Katra, Jammu & Kashmir – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Super Specialty Hospital (SMVDNSH), established by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) as part of its commitment to social welfare and managed in partnership with Narayana Health, has successfully performed a complex Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) assisted angioplasty. This advanced procedure once again highlights the Shrine Board’s vision of bringing world-class healthcare services to the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has consistently prioritised healthcare as a key pillar of its community initiatives, ensuring that the people of the Union Territory and the millions of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine have access to high-quality medical services. SMVDNSH stands as a flagship project of this vision, offering state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced technology, and highly skilled medical expertise in the foothills of Trikuta Hills.

In this latest achievement, a young male patient was referred from a tertiary hospital with a recent history of chest pain. Angiography done outside had revealed blockages in two major heart arteries, and angioplasty was attempted but could not be completed due to severe calcification. On visiting SMVDNSH for a second opinion, his case was thoroughly reviewed, and IVL-assisted angioplasty was recommended.

IVL (Intravascular Lithotripsy) is a cutting-edge cardiology technique that uses a special balloon catheter to deliver sonic pressure waves, cracking hardened calcium within arteries. This makes it possible to place stents safely in vessels that would otherwise resist conventional angioplasty. The procedure was carried out successfully at SMVDNSH, and the patient is recovering well under regular follow-up. This marks the fourth such advanced procedure performed at the hospital within the past year, with all patients showing excellent outcomes.

Dr. Sushant Kumar, Senior Consultant, Cardiology, who led the procedure, said:

“This was a very challenging case due to the heavy calcification in the patient’s arteries. With IVL technology, we could safely prepare the vessels and implant stents with success. IVL is one of the most advanced cardiology tools available today, and I am proud that patients here in Katra are benefitting from such global innovations.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. M.M. Mathavan, Facility Director of SMVDNSH, remarked:

“Our hospital is committed to bringing modern cardiology solutions to the region. The success of this procedure reflects our mission to ensure that patients in Jammu & Kashmir can access advanced treatments locally. This would not have been possible without the unwavering support and vision of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.”

Congratulating the medical team, Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, noted:

“The Shrine Board has always strived to serve society not only through spiritual and pilgrim services but also by investing in social sectors like healthcare and education. The success of advanced procedures such as IVL angioplasty at SMVDNSH demonstrates how our vision of a world-class hospital for the region is being fulfilled. We remain committed to strengthening this institution further for the benefit of the people and pilgrims alike.”

With the continued support of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Super Specialty Hospital is emerging as a hub of excellence in cardiac care and other specialties, ensuring that patients no longer need to travel outside the Union Territory for complex, life-saving treatments.

Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Sunil Sharma launched a sharp critique of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday, accusing him of creating misleading narratives while failing to address pressing governance issues. During a media briefing, Sharma highlighted Abdullah’s tendency to shift responsibility, insisting on the need for accountability in leadership.

Sharma emphasized, “Omar Abdullah often presents himself as the one managing all transfers and responsibilities but conveniently distances himself when it comes to actual governance.” He stressed that this pattern exemplifies a deeper issue among leaders who neglect their responsibilities.

“Whenever there is a need for decisive action, he claims he lacks the necessary powers. Such statements reflect his inability to lead effectively and show a disregard for the concerns of the poor and marginalized,” Sharma added. He articulated that the current focus should be solely on development, rather than making excuses for inaction.

Highlighting the ongoing crisis, Sharma reassured flood victims that the Government of India will provide necessary compensation. He stated that the situation is currently under review, emphasizing his party’s commitment to ensuring relief measures reach those affected swiftly.

“We stand firm in our commitments. It is our responsibility to guarantee that assistance is delivered promptly to all who have suffered from the calamity,” Sharma remarked, underscoring the BJP’s focus on tangible results in governance.

This exchange reflects the ongoing political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir, with opposition parties closely monitoring the ruling government’s performance amidst pressing issues like flood relief and public welfare. Sharma’s statements encapsulate the BJP’s strategy to position itself as a party of action while contrasting against what it describes as a history of negligence from the current administration.

Sharma’s candid remarks not only underline the BJP’s concerns about governance but also highlight broader questions regarding public administration and political responsibility. As the political landscape evolves, the push for transparency and effective management of public funds remains crucial for the future of governance in the region.