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.

Addressing the gathering at the ceremony, CM Omar congratulated the people of Ladakh and thanked Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and his team for advancing the project to a stage where all-weather connectivity is now within reach.

He said the closure of the Zojila axis during winters causes hardship, and the tunnel would transform lives by improving access to education, healthcare, tourism, trade and commerce.

“The true impact of this tunnel will be reflected in the lives of local residents-students, patients and traders. This project will bring change that is difficult to fully measure today,” Omar said.

Expressing hope for early completion of the remaining work, the Chief Minister said the breakthrough marks the fulfilment of a key aspiration of the region.

However, he flagged another long-pending demand of Kargil residents, urging Gadkari to facilitate regular air connectivity to the region.

“We made serious efforts but could not succeed. I request Gadkari Sahib to help realise this demand of the people of Kargil,” he said, adding that improved air connectivity would further boost development and integration.

He congratulated the people of Drass and appreciating the efforts of all stakeholders involved in the project.

It’s in place to mention here that with this development, the project moves closer to completion of what will be one of the most critical all-weather road links between Kashmir and Ladakh. Once operational, the tunnel is expected to reduce travel time across Zojila Pass from 1–1.5 hours to just about 15 minutes, significantly improving year-round mobility.

The tunnel is a geostrategically vital infrastructure project measuring 13.153 km in length, 9.5 metres in width, and 7.57 metres in height, built at an altitude of around 11,578 feet above sea level. It is a horseshoe-shaped, single-tube, two-lane road tunnel designed to ensure uninterrupted connectivity even in extreme weather conditions.

The project is being executed by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited.

Also present on the occasion were Chief Executive Councillor of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Kargil Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Member of Parliament Ladakh Haji Mohd Haneefa Jan, along with senior civil, military and project officials—(KNO)

Addressing a gathering at the Zojila Eastern Portal, LG Sinha, congratulated the people of J&K and Ladakh and praised engineers, scientists and workers involved in the project for working in challenging conditions.

The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for making this vision a reality and said that the landmark project will usher in a new era of connectivity and development for Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh.

“Today is undoubtedly a historic day. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Union Territories of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh,” he said, adding, “Under the leadership of PM Modi and the relentless efforts of the Union Minister the Zojila Tunnel will emerge as a lifeline for the region, strengthening supply chains, boosting tourism and providing vital strategic support to our Armed Forces,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

LG Sinha along with the Union Minister inspected the tunnel and expressed his deepest appreciation and commendation to all the engineers, personnel and workforce who have worked day and night under extremely challenging weather conditions at such a high altitude.

“Connectivity drives development and brings economic prosperity. Over the last 12 years, unprecedented work has been done in this sector across the country. There has been a significant improvement with regard to road, air and rail connectivity in these regions.

Given the scale of ongoing projects in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, I am confident that this will not only boost trade and tourism but will also significantly strengthen national security, especially in border areas.

“I hope this project will be completed at the earliest and dedicated to the people of Ladakh and Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also stated that the completion of this infrastructural marvel will offer immense convenience to devotees of Baba Amarnath Ji coming to Jammu Kashmir from across the country.

As the Chairman of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, I once again extend my gratitude and congratulations for this achievement,” he said.

“I congratulate the people of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and all those associated with this project who worked tirelessly in adverse weather conditions,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of connectivity in border areas, LG Sinha said improved road, air and rail networks over the past decade have played a key role in driving development.

He noted that previously neglected regions have now seen sustained infrastructure focus.

Referring to the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra beginning July 3, LG Sinha said improved connectivity would provide significant relief to pilgrims travelling to the shrine.

Pertinently, Zojila Tunnel is a landmark engineering achievement being constructed between Baltal and Minamarg on National Highway-1, the nearly 14-km-long bi-directional Zojila Tunnel is one of India’s most ambitious mountain infrastructure projects, being developed at a cost of approximately ₹6,800 crore. Built at altitudes ranging from 2,900 metres to 3,310 metres, the project represents a significant engineering accomplishment in one of the world’s most challenging terrains.

Despite heavy snowfall, harsh weather conditions and complex geological challenges, the project has progressed steadily through the efforts of engineers, workers, consultants, contractors, the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and other stakeholders.

It is Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel and is scripting a new future of year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. This engineering marvel will significantly reduce travel time, ensure safer travel and provide substantial fuel savings—(KNO)

Addressing a press conference after the ceremony, Gadkari, said the 14-km tunnel is among the country’s most significant infrastructure projects, built to global safety standards despite challenging terrain and harsh weather.

He praised engineers, workers and agencies involved in the project, noting construction was carried out at an altitude of around 3,000 metres in sub-zero temperatures, with nearly 80% of the workforce comprising local labour.

Gadkari said the project, prioritised after 2014, was executed successfully after multiple failed tender attempts earlier, and at a significantly lower cost than originally estimated.

The Union Minister also announced a series of new infrastructure projects for Ladakh, including the Rs 1,000-crore Leh South Bypass (48 km) and Rs 200-crore Leh North Bypass (7.6 km) to ease congestion and improve connectivity.

He said work on the 2.6-km Fatu La twin-tube tunnel, estimated at Rs 1,200 crore, will begin within three months, while the Rs 3,500-crore Tela Pass Tunnel project is in the final DPR stage, with contracts likely before March next year.

In addition, Gadkari announced the widening and upgradation of the Srinagar-Gumri road to further strengthen connectivity and complement the Zojila Tunnel.

He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to expanding infrastructure in the Himalayan region and ensuring year-round access to remote border areas.

WORLD-CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE

Gadkari stated that the tunnel will be equipped with modern ventilation systems, automatic fire detection systems, advanced CCTV surveillance and cross-passage facilities for pedestrians to ensure safe and efficient travel. “To address snow loads and geological challenges, the project includes eight cut-and-cover sections, four bridges, 40 culverts, snow galleries, catch dams, avalanche protection structures, approach roads and state-of-the-art safety arrangements,” he said.

WILL SERVE AS GATEWAY TO DEVELOPMENT

Gadkari said that the Zojila Tunnel is much more than a transportation project and will serve as a gateway to development for the region.

“Upon completion, travel time between Sonamarg and Minamarg will be reduced from nearly two hours to about 30 minutes, resulting in significant savings in time and fuel. The project will also reduce accident risks and disruptions caused by avalanches and adverse weather conditions,” he said, adding, “The tunnel is expected to boost tourism, facilitate trade, improve access to remote areas and strengthen connectivity to border regions. From a national security perspective, year-round connectivity will enable faster and more efficient movement of the Indian Army, equipment, supplies and logistics, thereby strengthening strategic preparedness.”

“The project will also generate employment opportunities, promote economic growth and improve the quality of life of local communities through enhanced connectivity and regional integration,” Gadkari said.

MAJOR CONNECTIVITY PROJECTS STRENGTHENING LADAKH

The Minister stated that road and tunnel projects worth about ₹18,000 crore are under implementation between Kargil and Leh-Ladakh.

Among the important initiatives is the Kargil–Zanskar–Padum highway project, which is improving access to the Zanskar region while strengthening strategic connectivity and facilitating Army movement.

To improve traffic management in Leh, South and North Bypass projects are being developed to provide seamless movement for vehicles travelling towards Srinagar, Manali and Khardung La without entering the city.

Shri Gadkari also highlighted the proposed Fatu-La Twin-Tube Tunnel and Kela Pass Tunnel, which will improve all-weather connectivity and enhance access to key tourism destinations, including Pangong Lake.

The Minister informed that tunnel projects are being planned at Baralacha La, Lachulung La and Tanglang La along the Manali–Leh route.

These projects will substantially improve travel reliability, reduce journey time and strengthen year-round connectivity to Ladakh.

HIGHWAY DEVELOPMENT WORTH ₹1.35 LAKH CRORE UNDERWAY IN J&K

Following the breakthrough, Gadkari highlighted the Government’s broader efforts to transform road infrastructure across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

He informed that highway projects worth approximately ₹1.35 lakh crore, comprising completed, ongoing and upcoming works, are being implemented across Jammu & Kashmir to strengthen connectivity, improve logistics efficiency and accelerate socio-economic development.

Gadkari said that four major high-speed corridors are under development to strengthen connectivity across Jammu & Kashmir.

The Jammu–Udhampur–Srinagar corridor is nearing completion and will significantly reduce travel time through upgraded highway infrastructure and tunnel networks.

The Jammu–Chenani–Anantnag corridor will improve connectivity between the Chenab Valley districts and Kashmir Valley, while the Srinagar–Baramulla–Uri corridor will strengthen connectivity in North Kashmir and facilitate smoother movement of people and goods.

The Jammu–Akhnoor–Poonch corridor is also progressing rapidly and is expected to improve connectivity in border districts while providing substantial travel-time savings.

STRATEGIC AND BORDER CONNECTIVITY INITIATIVES

The Union Minister highlighted several upcoming projects of strategic importance, including the Katra–Srinagar High-Speed Corridor, the Rafiabad–Kupwara–Chowkibal–Tangdhar road project and the Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri corridor.

“These projects will improve access to border areas, facilitate tourism, support horticulture activities and strengthen strategic infrastructure. A new corridor connecting Surankote, Bufliaz, Supen, Doodhpathri and Magam is also under planning to enhance connectivity between the Pir Panjal region and Kashmir Valley,” he added.

RING ROADS TO IMPROVE URBAN MOBILITY

Gadkari stated that the Srinagar Ring Road project is being implemented in multiple phases to decongest the city and facilitate seamless movement towards Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Gurez, Kargil and Leh. Connectivity to Srinagar Airport and the railway station is also being strengthened through dedicated spur links.

Similarly, the Jammu Ring Road project is being developed to reduce urban congestion and improve traffic circulation around the city. The proposed eastern section will further strengthen regional connectivity and provide a shorter route towards Katra.

DELHI–AMRITSAR–KATRA EXPRESSWAY TO STRENGTHEN REGIONAL LINKAGES

The Minister said that the Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Greenfield Expressway will provide faster and more efficient connectivity between Delhi and Katra while strengthening economic linkages across northern India and improving access to Jammu & Kashmir through a modern access-controlled corridor.

TUNNEL INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVING CONNECTIVITY REVOLUTION

Highlighting the Government’s focus on tunnel infrastructure in the Himalayan region, Shri Gadkari said that tunnel construction has become a key component of highway development to ensure all-weather connectivity, improve road safety and enhance strategic mobility.

He emphasized that these infrastructure initiatives are not merely transportation projects but instruments of economic growth, tourism development, employment generation, regional integration and national security.

Gadkari said that the successful breakthrough of the Zojila Tunnel symbolizes the emergence of a New India that transforms geographical challenges into opportunities for development, prosperity and national progress—(KNO)

More than 100 people were also injured when the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the island of Mindanao shortly before 7:40am local time on Monday (23:40 GMT, Sunday), according to the United States Geological Survey.

The initial earthquake was followed by more than an hour of aftershocks, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

General Santos, a city of 722,000 people in southern Mindanao, sustained some of the most serious damage.

PHIVOLCS said the city, located in the southern region of Soccsksargen, experienced the “very strong” event on its internal intensity scale.

Video posted on official social media channels showed a three-storey building that housed a Jollibee restaurant collapsing in a cloud of debris and dust, startling onlookers.

Other images showed extensive damage to buildings, including smashed windows and caved-in roofs.

Police spokesperson Robert Dagun told a local radio station that parts of the city’s St Elizabeth Hospital were severely damaged, forcing patients and medical personnel to evacuate and temporarily operate outside the main hospital building.

Mary Ann Blanco Rhudy, a Catholic nun working for Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos, said she was travelling to the college when the earthquake struck.

“The cars on the road were moving erratically. I am lucky that they didn’t crash against each other,” she said.

“The trees on the side of the road were also swaying violently.”

Rhudy said some of the buildings at the college had partially collapsed.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said emergency agencies had been activated, including the Office of Civil Defence and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Marcos said he had ordered the closure of schools in affected areas.

According to the state-run Philippine News Agency, 3.2 million students and 128,000 teachers and personnel were affected on what was meant to be the first day of school in the country.

“The safety of our children comes first,” Marcos said.

Authorities across Asia issued and later cancelled tsunami warnings, including in the Philippines and Indonesia, but a tsunami advisory remained in place for Japan’s southern coast and outlying islands, where residents were urged to stay away from river mouths and coastal areas until further notice.(AL JAZEERA)

During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister interacted with senior officers of army and inspected the Kaman Learning Centre, library and auditorium facilities established at the post.

He appreciated the efforts aimed at promoting awareness, education, and tourism in the border region.

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Kaman Post holds immense significance as a major attraction for border tourism. He emphasized the need for strengthening tourism activities in the area for the economic benefit of local residents.

Later, Deputy Chief Minister visited the NHPC power project in Uri and reviewed the functioning and power generation capacity of the vital hydroelectric project.

He interacted with senior officers and officials of the project and took stock of various operational aspects.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the importance of ensuring greater participation of local youth in national infrastructure and development projects.

He directed the concerned authorities to provide adequate employment opportunities to skilled and unskilled youth from the area, stating that such initiatives would significantly contribute towards sustainable livelihood generation and economic empowerment of local communities.

He reiterated the government’s commitment towards inclusive development, strengthening border infrastructure, and creating better opportunities for the youth across Jammu and Kashmir.

The Deputy Chief Minister said this while addressing at a public outreach programme at Bagna during daylong tour to border Constituency Uri of Baramulla district.

During an extensive tour, he assessed the progress of developmental works, road connectivity projects, educational and health infrastructure and mining operations across Uri areas.

The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Chief Engineer PMGSY, Chief Engineer R&B North Kashmir, ADC Baramulla, SDM Uri and other senior officers of the district administration.

Addressing a public gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that, “the Government is committed to create facilities in rural areas at par with urban areas across Jammu and Kashmir so that the youth living in far-flung and border areas receive equal opportunities for growth and progress.”

During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected various R&B works at Zehampora Uri, including construction of additional classrooms and library facilities at Government High School. He directed the concerned officers to ensure speedy completion of the projects and emphasized the need for strengthening educational infrastructure for the benefit of students.

Reviewing the ongoing developmental activities in the mining sector, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected the Gypsum mining block at Bagna Dara Gudliyan Uri. He stressed transparency, proper regulation and strict adherence to safety and environmental norms in mining operations. He further directed the officials to submit complete details of all mining blocks so that effective measures can be taken to ensure welfare and socio-economic benefits for local communities associated with mining activities.

“Any mining operations should benefit the local population and enhance means of there livelihood first,” he said.

As part of the infrastructure development initiatives, the Deputy Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the Kushamarg PMGSY Road project at Bagna Uri.

He said that several important road projects have already been undertaken in Uri while many others are in the pipeline for the current year to ensure smooth and seamless connectivity across the border region.

He also laid the foundation stone for construction of the PMGSY Nambla–Rustom–Bilalabad road project in Uri and remarked that the project would significantly improve mobility and connectivity for residents living in border areas.

During the tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the PWD Rest House at Lagama Uri and called for its complete renovation. He directed the concerned departments to prepare plans for construction of a conference hall, development of parking facilities and landscaping of the lawn area so that the facility can serve as a better accommodation and meeting venue for official visitors and government engagements.

Later, the Deputy Chief Minister also addressed a public outreach programme at Officer’s Club and listened to their issues and demands.

He assured robust development and prompt grievance redress as priority for the present government.

During the tour, the Deputy Chief Minister met various public delegations including land losers of NHPC power project and assured them that their genuine issues shall be addressed on priority basis.

“We must remain constantly alert and vigilant. The nature of law & order threats and terrorism has evolved, demanding a constant, unyielding vigilance and alert to threats that hide in plain sight,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that new recruits must work as a team because the threats Jammu Kashmir confronts demand cooperation between different agencies.

“When we share information, plan strategies, and confront the enemy together, we build capacities that no single institution can create alone. India has always embraced the values of peaceful coexistence, mutual goodwill, and sincere friendship. Yet we face a neighbour widely known as a source of terrorism in the world. Alongside maintaining law and order, newly recruited constables must stand on the front line of national security with determination to eliminate threats of terror,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that everyone should work with resolve and efficiency to rid Jammu Kashmir of fear and terrorism. He said terror does not sustain itself; it needs money, networks, and support systems. Using the full force of the law, we must trace and neutralize sources of funding. We must identify every network and dismantle every support system completely, the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also cautioned that along with modern tools, police force should also adopt tradecraft of basic policing.

“In matters of law and order, beat policing proves highly effective. When a beat constable resolves that no crime will occur within their jurisdiction and that public land will not be occupied illegally, such unwavering commitment inevitably delivers results,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor said all new recruits are heirs to this noble legacy and they will enrich it further. He said every uniform of the Jammu & Kashmir Police tells a story of courage, commitment, and purpose woven into the fabric of the nation’s history.

“Each time you put on the uniform, remember that you are adding a proud chapter to its legacy. Take pride in the ideals of defence and service that the Jammu & Kashmir Police embodies, for they define both your duty and your honour,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Jammu Kashmir Police for its swift and effective action against the drug smugglers and drug peddlers during the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Campaign.

“J&K Police has laid out a comprehensive plan to completely choke drug entry routes. I am confident that the actions in the coming days will be stringent, and will yield major successes,” he said.

Over 3200 newly recruited constables were inducted into the Jammu Kashmir Police Force.

Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&K; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department; Shri S.J.M. Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; Shri Abdul Ghani Mir, Commandant General Home Guards; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; senior officials of police and civil administration, and family members of new recruits attended the appointment letters presentation ceremony.

The visit was aimed to inspect the ongoing construction work and ensure that all state-of-the-art infrastructural amenities aligned with global standards for Legislative efficiency are being adhered to by the executing agency. The Executive Engineer PWD(R&B) Project Division-II presented the overview of the project, floor-wise facilities being constructed, details of enhanced seating capacity of Assembly Hall, construction of central hall, external finishing etc.

During the visit, the Advisor toured the central assembly hall, review the administrative chambers and the surrounding public utility spaces.

Emphasizing the government’s commitment towards reinforcing democratic infrastructure in the Union Territory, the Advisor directed the executing agency to expedite the remaining finishing works and complete the project well within the specified time limit. He underscored that timely completion of the modern complex is vital for the smooth functioning of future democratic proceedings and convenience of public representatives.

“Robust infrastructure is the backbone of effective governance. This new complex is not merely a building; it is a symbol of democratic ethos and must be completed promptly with uncompromising quality,” said the Advisor during the inspection.

Nasir Aslam interacted with the senior engineers of PWD(R&B) Jammu and Mechanical Engineering Department, taking detailed stock of the structural and technical specifications of the project. He instructed the authorities to ensure seamless integration of advanced IT infrastructure, modern acoustics and enhanced security systems within the premises including e-Vidhan.

The upcoming New Legislative Complex is designed to provide a highly accessible, eco-friendly and technologically advanced environment for the lawmakers with facilities like e-Vidhan. With the expedited timeline, the administration aims to facilitate an enhanced working environment for the region’s representatives.

The Advisor was accompanied by senior officials from the civil administration.

Later, Nasir Aslam inspected various ongoing developmental works in Jammu along with Chief Engineer PWD (R&B), Jammu, Rajesh Augustam, Superintending Engineer, Chief Medical Officer Jammu and other senior officers.

During the visit, the Advisor reviewed the permanent restoration work of the approach road to the 4th Tawi Bridge, Jammu. The senior officers informed that the project has been allotted at an estimated cost of ₹14.59 crore with a stipulated completion period of 12 months. The restoration work is aimed at improving the connectivity and ensuring smooth traffic movement in the area.

Nasir Aslam also inspected repair and renovation works being carried out at Yatri Niwas Bhagwati Nagar in view of the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra. The project included construction of temporary sheds and hangars for Yatris and langars besides laying of bitumen in parking areas and internal roads. The works are being executed at an estimated cost of ₹1.59 crore with a completion period of one and a half months.

The Advisor also inspected another major project envisaging construction of a 105-meter span prestressed RCC bridge over Balole Nalla at Gadi Garh. The Advisor was informed that the bridge work has been completed at an estimated cost of ₹7.2 crore within 24 months.

During the inspection, the Chief Engineer PWD (R&B), Jammu briefed the Advisor about the ongoing preparations and infrastructure works related to the Shri Amarnath Yatra, particularly the arrangements being undertaken by the PWD (R&B) Division Satwari.

Nasir Aslam directed the concerned authorities to ensure timely completion of all ongoing developmental works so that adequate facilities are made available to the public and pilgrims during the forthcoming yatra.

While inspecting the arrangements at Yatri Niwas, Bhagwati Nagar base camp of Amarnath Yatra, the Advisor also visited the PHC there to assess the arrangements and preparedness for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra. He enquired about the healthcare facilities being provided to the Yatris at the Centre.

Chief Medical Officer, Jammu, Dr. Harbaksh Singh, briefed the Advisor regarding the necessary arrangements being put in place at the PHC for upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.

MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Wani (Kaloo); Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Director School Education Kashmir, Director Health Services Kashmir, CMO, CEO, other senior officers of district administration, family members of Shaheed Adil Hussain and large number of locals were also present on the occasion.

Addressing a large gathering, the Minister paid rich tributes to Shaheed Adil and said that the renaming of the institution is a humble tribute to the courage, sacrifice and patriotism displayed by the martyr. She added that the sacrifice of brave son of the soil will not be forgotten and Shaheed Adil will be remembered in our hearts, as this school is dedicated in his name to recognise his sacrifice.

Calling Shaheed Adil Hussain as national hero, Sakeena Itoo said that Government is committed to support the family in every possible manner.

“Everyone remembers martyr Adil Sahib. Along with Jammu and Kashmir, he has left his mark across the country. No one can ever forget the sacrifice he made,” Sakeena Itoo said.

The Minister recalled that Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and former Chief Minister, Dr. Farooq Abdullah had promised the family that the school would be renamed after the martyr, adding that the government fulfilled the promise within a year.

The Minister emphasized that educational institutions play a vital role in shaping the future of society and renaming the school after Shaheed Adil would serve as a constant source of inspiration for students and youth of the area. She urged the students to work hard with commitment, discipline and contribute positively towards nation-building and social progress.

Highlighting the government’s commitment towards strengthening the education sector across Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister said that several initiatives are being undertaken to improve educational infrastructure, enhance learning facilities and provide quality education to students, particularly in rural and far-flung areas.

She further said that the Omar Abdullah-led Government is focused on ensuring inclusive and equitable development across all sectors with special attention towards education, healthcare and social welfare.

MLA Pahalgam, Altaf Ahmad Wani (Kaloo) also spoke on the occasion.

The Minister also interacted with students and teaching staff and appreciated the efforts of the school administration in promoting quality education in the region.

During the visit, the Minister also interacted with local residents and family members of Shaheed Adil Hussain, and paid rich tributes to the martyr.

The locals also raised various public issues before the Minister and sought their immediate redressal. she assured them that their genuine demands will be addressed.

On the occasion, a short movie was also played in the memory of Shaheed Adil Hussain Shah highlighting his braveness, besides lectures were delivered, praising the boldness and his humane nature of Shaheed Adil Hussain.