JAMMU, Sept 8: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) in Kakryal, Reasi district, has been sanctioned 50 MBBS seats, paving the way for admissions to its first batch in the 2025-26 academic session.

Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp

Owned by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), the new Medical College started functioning in November last year from the administrative block of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. With the approval of seats, the Institute is set to formally begin imparting medical education this session.

Announcing the development, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister J P Nadda for the sanction. “This decision fulfils the resolve of the Shrine Board to provide world-class medical education in Jammu and Kashmir while also meeting the objective of improving healthcare access and producing highly skilled professionals in underserved areas,” he said.

The Shrine Board had, in its 71st meeting on August 19, 2023, approved the establishment of a 50-seat Medical College at Kakryal with a roadmap for upgradation to a 100-seat institution in the future. “Our aim is to create more opportunities for MBBS aspirants within the Union Territory. The consistent increase in MBBS seats in recent years will ensure better access to specialized care and strengthen the healthcare system,” Sinha added.

Executive Director of SMVDIME, Dr Yaspaul Sharma, said counselling for admissions has begun and the academic session is set to start soon.

The SMVDIME Medical College is affiliated with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. Its associated teaching hospital will be the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital at Kakryal, where students will undergo practical training in around 26 specialties. Officials said the Medical College will be developed with full infrastructure and facilities in the coming months.

JAMMU, Sep 9: The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has ordered the transfers and postings of 16 senior IAS officers. Among them are Prashant Goyal, PK Pole, and VK Bidhuri, who earlier held various important positions in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

order1-1

RAMGARH : Dr Devinder Kumar Manyal, MLA Ramgarh and Former Minister for Health and Medical Education J&K, organized a Job Mela at the MLA Office Ramgarh, aimed at creating employment opportunities for women of the Ramgarh constituency.

The initiative was focused on promoting women empowerment, skill utilization, and financial independence by connecting women with local industries.

Human Resource representatives and staff members from various local industries participated in the camp, where they interacted with women candidates and provided detailed information about available job openings across multiple sectors.

On this occasion, Sanam Jasrotia addressed the participants and highlighted the scope of employment for women in local industries, encouraging them to actively pursue these opportunities.

Dr. Manyal, while interacting with the women, appreciated their enthusiastic participation and reaffirmed his commitment to continue such initiatives in the future. He emphasized that empowering women through sustainable employment will not only strengthen families but also contribute significantly to the local economy.

RAMGARH : Dr Devinder Kumar Manyal, MLA Ramgarh and Former Minister for Health and Medical Education J&K, organized a Job Mela at the MLA Office Ramgarh, aimed at creating employment opportunities for women of the Ramgarh constituency.

The initiative was focused on promoting women empowerment, skill utilization, and financial independence by connecting women with local industries.

Human Resource representatives and staff members from various local industries participated in the camp, where they interacted with women candidates and provided detailed information about available job openings across multiple sectors.

On this occasion, Sanam Jasrotia addressed the participants and highlighted the scope of employment for women in local industries, encouraging them to actively pursue these opportunities.

Dr. Manyal, while interacting with the women, appreciated their enthusiastic participation and reaffirmed his commitment to continue such initiatives in the future. He emphasized that empowering women through sustainable employment will not only strengthen families but also contribute significantly to the local economy.

The officers of District Doda through a Press Statement have come together to issue a strong statement of solidarity with Shri Harvinder Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner Doda, while strongly condemning the circulation of an objectionable video by the Hon’ble MLA, Mr. Mehraj Malik.

The officers commended Harvinder Singh for his exceptional service, integrity, and dedication to public welfare, describing him as “a true embodiment of integrity, humility, and commitment, whose down-to-earth demeanor and compassionate approach have made him a beacon of hope for the people of Doda.”

They underlined his exemplary track record, including his role in conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in the district. His recognition by the Government of India, none less than by the Hon’ble President of India, was highlighted as testimony to his tireless efforts for development, inclusive governance, and grassroots service. Expressing deep anguish at the contents of the said video, the officers termed the use of abusive language and baseless allegations against the Deputy Commissioner as “unfortunate, deplorable, and unacceptable.”

“Attempts to malign the image of such an outstanding officer are not only an affront to his impeccable character but also a disservice to the people of Doda, who hold him in the highest esteem,” the officers stated.

They further reminded that the Hon’ble MLA, as a public representative who has taken oath on the Constitution of India, is expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct. “He should behave in a civilised and responsible manner.

It would be in the larger public interest if he mends his behaviour,” the officers suggested. The collective note also underscored the role of the executive.

“It is the executive machinery that works on the ground in the truest sense—whether during floods, natural disasters, man-made conflicts, or any adverse situation—ensuring that law is implemented and relief reaches the people.”

Reaffirming their united support for the Deputy Commissioner, the officers praised his resilience, people-centric approach, and unwavering focus on public service despite such unwarranted criticism. They concluded with a note of admiration.

“The people of Doda, and indeed the nation, are fortunate to have an officer of Harvinder Singh’s caliber leading with such grace, determination, and dedication.”