During the interaction, the Minister patiently heard a wide range of collective and individual grievances pertaining to civic amenities, healthcare, employee welfare, compassionate appointments and other developmental and public service-related issues.

Taking cognizance of the concerns raised by the delegations, the Minister issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned officers for prompt examination and expeditious redress of genuine grievances. He stressed the need for a transparent, accountable and citizen-friendly administration, directing the officers to ensure timely disposal of public issues.

Javid Dar reiterated that addressing the public grievances remains a top priority of the government. He assured the visiting delegations that all genuine demands would be resolved in a time-bound manner.

The Deputy Chief Minister visited the office of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) at Bikram Chowk, Jammu, where he reviewed the overall functioning of the department and assessed the status of ongoing road projects.

He directed the officers to ensure timely execution of works while strictly adhering to prescribed quality standards.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that improved road connectivity is vital for the socio-economic development of the region. He called upon the officials to work with dedication and accountability.

During the inspection, the Deputy Chief Minister also interacted with the officers and staff, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency, efficiency and responsiveness in departmental functioning.

During the inspection, the Deputy Chief Minister said that every project should be completed within the stipulated timelines without compromising on quality.

Later, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected the offices of the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC) and the Design Inspection and Quality Control (DIQC) and JKPCC office at Panama Chowk in Jammu. He reviewed the operational efficiency of both the departments and took stock of the progress of various ongoing works.

Expressing the need for strengthening institutional accountability, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the officers to maintain discipline in offices, ensure regular monitoring of projects and uphold the highest standards of quality in execution. He said that effective supervision and timely completion of projects are essential to delivering better public services and meeting the expectations of the people.

He further stressed on ensuring greater efficiency, transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

The Chief Minister reviewed the overall performance of the power sector, including revenue realization, implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), reduction in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses, transmission projects and the roadmap for future reforms.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department Ashwini Kumar, ACS to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Managing Director Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited Gurpal Singh, Managing Director KPDCL Mehmood Ahmad Shah, Chief Electrical Inspectorate PDD Sanjay Sharma, senior officers of JKTPCL, senior engineers and other concerned officers.

During the presentation, it was informed that Jammu and Kashmir has made significant strides in implementing power sector reforms under RDSS, with projects worth over ₹5,700 crore under execution across the region. Of these, works worth nearly ₹4,700 crore relating to loss reduction have largely been awarded.

Reforms related to metering is expected to improve billing efficiency, reduce losses and empower consumers through transparent energy usage.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of extensive loss reduction works, including installation of aerial bunched (AB) cables, feeder segregation, augmentation of distribution transformers, underground cabling and strengthening of the distribution network. Officers informed the meeting that several districts have recorded substantial progress under these components, with many packages nearing completion.

Reviewing the financial health of the power sector, the Chief Minister noted the encouraging improvement in revenue realization. It was informed that annual revenue realization has increased significantly over the past several years, while the gap between power purchase cost and revenue realization has narrowed owing to sustained reforms, better billing and improved collections.

The meeting was informed that billing efficiency has improved from 56 per cent in FY 2021-22 to 77 per cent in FY 2025-26, while overall AT&C losses have declined drastically during the same period. The ACS-ARR gap has also reduced significantly, reflecting improving financial sustainability of the power utilities.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the impact of reduced hydro power generation during the current summer due to low water availability, which has increased dependence on power procurement from the energy exchange during peak demand hours. Officers briefed him on measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted supply despite seasonal challenges.

Reviewing the roadmap ahead, the Chief Minister stressed the need to maintain the momentum of reforms beyond the ongoing RDSS programme. He directed the department to ensure timely completion of all sanctioned works, to closely monitor project execution, remove implementation bottlenecks and improve accountability at every level.

He also emphasized the importance of expanding AB cable coverage, strengthening the transmission network and leveraging emerging technologies to improve reliability and reduce system losses. He called for focused efforts to improve consumer services while ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the power sector.

The Chief Minister was informed about proposals for additional infrastructure investments, including expansion of AB cable networks, critical transmission projects, battery energy storage systems and rooftop solar initiatives aimed at improving grid stability, enhancing renewable energy integration and providing reliable electricity in remote and border areas.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of electrification works in uncovered habitations, ongoing transmission projects, feeder-wise power curtailment, tariff proceedings for FY 2026-27 and proposed interventions to further modernize the power sector.

Reiterating that reliable and affordable electricity remains central to the government’s development agenda, the Chief Minister directed the department to adopt a results-oriented approach to ensure quality power supply, improve consumer satisfaction and build a modern, efficient and financially sustainable power sector for Jammu and Kashmir.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor hailed the fellows as symbols of Jammu Kashmir’s ongoing transformation toward a future built on self-confidence, equal opportunities and dignity for all.

He lauded the efforts of Dr. Fida Firdous and all the members of Kashmir Women’s Organization for creating a robust platform where the Nari Shakti from the region could move forward confidently, embracing their talent, ideas, and identities and play a meaningful role in building a bright future for Jammu Kashmir.

“In a short span, Kashmir Women’s Organization has earned the distinction of becoming a powerful hub of hope, trust, and positive change. This fellowship program is a tangible realization of collaborative and shared responsibility.

By challenging deeply entrenched stereotypes, these fellows have redefined what is possible. They have paved a new path for future generations and their contributions would serve as a foundation of inspiration, confidence, and guidance for years to come,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor paid homage to historical icons such as Rani Didda, Kota Rani, Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon, Mata Rupa Bhawani, who had shaped the consciousness of Jammu Kashmir and contributed to its development. He highlighted that the women of J&K have always scaled the highest peaks of Nari Shakti.

“We have many such remarkable examples before us, and I wish for the women of Jammu Kashmir to lead the region’s development,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for empowering the women of Jammu Kashmir by granting them their due rights and eliminating discrimination.

He outlined a progressive vision for the Union Territory, powered by women leaders.

“Women’s empowerment is key to a Viksit J&K; their progress ensures the progress of society. I envision a Jammu Kashmir where women lead in academia, industry, social organizations and governance, shaping policies, driving entrepreneurship, and enriching our culture through art and literature.

I envision a Jammu Kashmir where every young girl grows up believing that her dreams are valuable, her voice is powerful, and her future holds limitless possibilities,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor exuded confidence that the fellowship program of Kashmir Women’s Organization will propagate the core principle that women deserve equal, dignified participation across all social, cultural, economic and political spheres.

“We must remain steadfast in our resolve to accord due respect to our Nari Shakti, while creating an environment that fosters their capabilities and progress.

When women progress, society progresses; when women lead, the nation scales new heights; and when women realize their dreams, the entire world becomes more just, more compassionate, and more prosperous,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need to address the rising challenge of substance abuse among women. He advised the fellows to conduct a comprehensive, region-specific analysis to identify its underlying root causes. He said that this study will significantly strengthen rehabilitation frameworks and provide vital support to our daughters and sisters who have fallen victim to drug addiction.

The Lieutenant Governor also commended the guides who mentored the fellows throughout the program.

He hoped that the dedication of all the members of Kashmir Women’s Organization would serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of countless women in the years to come.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released a book titled “Panchayati Raj Institutions and Municipal Council in India”, written by Dr. Nazrul Islam.

Dr. Fida Firdous, President, Kashmir Writers Association, Dr. Darakshan Hassan Bhat, President, Kashmir Women’s Organization, members of Kashmir Writers Association and Kashmir Women’s Organization and senior officials attended the felicitation ceremony.

The meeting comprehensively reviewed the functioning of IMPARD and deliberated on a wide range of measures aimed at enhancing the institute’s role as the premier training and capacity-building institution for J&K’s civil services.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary General Administration Department M Raju, Director General IMPARD Rehana Batul and other senior officers.

At the outset, Director General IMPARD Rehana Batul presented a detailed overview of the institute’s functioning, ongoing initiatives and future roadmap. She placed the agenda items before the Executive Council, which discussed each proposal extensively before taking considered decisions.

As Chairman of the Executive Council, the Chief Minister engaged in deliberations on important institutional matters, including recruitment of faculty members, finalisation of new recruitment rules, review and strengthening of training programmes, and support needed for organisation’s long-term growth and sustainability.

The Council also examined various employee-related issues, including welfare measures, deputation of faculty members to fill up key positions at IMPA in the short term, implementation of career advancement, service matters, compassionate appointments, engagement of consultants and examination of other proposals through the designated sub-committee. The EC observed that these measures shall strengthen the institutional framework and ensure greater operational efficiency.

Emphasising the pivotal role of IMPARD in nurturing a professional and accountable civil service, the Chief Minister stressed the need for continuous institutional reforms, high-quality training and innovation in public administration. He underscored that a modern governance framework requires well-trained, motivated and future-ready public servants capable of responding effectively to emerging challenges and citizens’ expectations.

The Chief Minister called for regular upgradation of training modules in line with evolving governance practices, greater adoption of technology-enabled learning and stronger knowledge partnerships to ensure that government officials remain equipped with the skills required for efficient public service delivery.

The Chief Minister had personally taken up the matter with the Government of India to safeguard the interests of passengers, the tourism industry, trade, and the people of Jammu & Kashmir, who would have been adversely affected by the proposed closure.

Expressing his appreciation, the Chief Minister said, “Grateful to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Ji and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Ji for acceding to our request and suspending the airport closure order. This closure had created a lot of difficulties for regular travellers and forced tour groups and tourists to cancel their planned visits.”

He said the decision to suspend the proposed runway closure would ensure uninterrupted air connectivity to the region, preventing disruption to travel, tourism, and economic activity.

The Chief Minister reiterated that maintaining seamless air connectivity is vital for Jammu & Kashmir’s economy, particularly during the peak tourist season, and thanked the Government of India for responding promptly to the concerns raised by Jammu and Kashmir government.

The decision was taken after the School Education Department reviewed complaints that the publication contained references considered objectionable and unsuitable for school students, the sources said.

According to government sources, all copies of the book have been recalled from government schools and directions have been issued to ensure it is no longer available in school libraries.

The sources said the government has also initiated departmental proceedings to identify officials involved in the book’s selection, approval, procurement and circulation. Responsibility will be fixed after the inquiry, they added.

The book, Great Personalities and Legends, was supplied to government schools under the Samagra Shiksha scheme in June this year. It was withdrawn on July 3 following complaints received by the department, the sources said.

The controversy gathered pace after the opposition BJP alleged that the publication portrayed separatist leaders and persons linked to militancy in a favourable light.

Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma demanded that the book be withdrawn immediately, a high-level probe ordered and action taken against those responsible for allowing it into school libraries.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had neither read nor heard about the book and would comment only after examining it.

The meeting was attended by Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&K; Shri S.J.M.Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home Department; Shri Pankaj Thakur, Joint Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB); Dr. Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; senior officers of the Civil Administration, Police, Security Forces, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, and other concerned departments.

The Lieutenant Governor reviewed the movement of pilgrims, traffic management, security arrangements, accommodation, registration status, and other logistical aspects to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the Yatra.

During the meeting, it was observed that an unusually large number of pilgrims have been arriving without valid registration, which is causing long waiting time for pilgrims to conduct Yatra.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the Yatra is being conducted in accordance with the prescribed ceiling of pilgrim movement on the Yatra tracks, in pursuance of Hon’ble Supreme Court’s orders. Therefore, adherence to the registration schedule is imperative for ensuring the safety, security, and convenience of all pilgrims.

It was reiterated that only pilgrims possessing valid registration for the designated date shall be permitted to proceed on the Tracks leading to the Holy Cave Shrine.

The Lieutenant Governor appealed to the intending unregistered pilgrims to defer their travel for next few days in order to avoid any inconvenience upon reaching Jammu Kashmir.

The administration has, therefore, asked all intending pilgrims to complete the mandatory registration process and obtain a valid Yatra Registration Permit for their allotted date before commencing their journey to Jammu Kashmir. Pilgrims are requested not to travel without confirmed registration, as they shall not be permitted to proceed on the Yatra.

The Lieutenant Governor further reviewed the security and logistic arrangements for the Yatra. He directed all departments and security agencies to keep working in close coordination and to maintain continuous liaison with all stakeholders, including Langar organizations, service providers and other NGOs for a safe, seamless, spiritually enriching and fulfilling Yatra.

NEW DELHI, JUNE 20 – The Regional Passport Office (RPO), Srinagar, has been adjudged as the Best Passport Office for the year 2025–26 under the Passport Seva Puraskar. The prestigious awards are instituted annually by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to recognize outstanding efficiency, public service delivery, and operational excellence.

The award was presented by the External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, to Shri B.S. Rawat, Regional Passport Officer, Srinagar, during the annual Passport Seva Divas celebrations and the Regional Passport Officers’ Conference held in New Delhi on June 19.

RPO Srinagar secured the top position by excelling across almost all key performance parameters utilized by the Ministry to assess the operational efficiency, speed of verification, grievance redressal, and citizen-centric service delivery of passport offices nationwide.

The high-level Regional Passport Officers’ Conference saw participation from Passport Officers representing 37 Passport Offices across India, alongside senior officials of the Central Passport Organisation. The national recognition highlights RPO Srinagar’s ongoing commitment to providing seamless, transparent, and highly efficient public services to the people of the region.