Cheif Minister Omar Abdullah Vows Support for Local Industries at JCCI Event in Jammu

omar abdullah

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting local industries in overcoming the challenges they are currently facing.
Speaking at an event organized by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) at its office, the Chief Minister was felicitated for assuming office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister of Forest, Ecology and Environment Javed Ahmad Rana, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, JCCI President Arun Gupta, Vice President and General Secretary of JCCI, former presidents, and other members. Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Principal Secretary Finance, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce, and Director Industries & Commerce Jammu, were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is no shortage of issues. If I were to claim that these problems have only emerged in the past decade, it would be misleading. These challenges are not new, nor are they solely the result of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. However, the UT transition has undoubtedly compounded these issues,” he stated.
Highlighting the geographical constraints of the region, the Chief Minister said, “Several challenges stem from our location. Jammu and Kashmir is situated in a corner of the country. Our market is very small, and our raw material base is limited. An industry that relies on importing raw materials and exporting finished products cannot sustain itself without governmental support.”
Reiterating his government’s responsibility, he added, “When we hold your hand and provide support, it is not a reflection of your helplessness or weakness. It is our responsibility, and we will fulfill it.”
On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasized the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region.
“Over a crore pilgrims visit Jammu for Mata Vaishno Devi every year. If we can successfully divert even 15% of them to local tourist destinations, we would gain 15 lakh tourists immediately. We have managed the entire tourism economy of Kashmir with just 15 lakh tourists,” he remarked.
He stressed the need to showcase Jammu’s unique cultural heritage.
“Our Dogra culture-this is treasure unique to Jammu. Our traditions, food, and specialties are unmatched and must be leveraged as key selling points for tourism.”
On the resumption of the now-defunct Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah highlighted its positive impact on Jammu’s vibrancy.
“The hallmark of Jammu city was the biannual Darbar Move. For six months, people from Srinagar would work here, creating a lively environment. It fostered interaction between people from both sides of the mountains, whether at Wave Mall, Residency Road, or Gole Market. I assure you that we will resume the Darbar Move in the future. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from doing so this time,” he said.
Discussing the impact of industrial packages, he cautioned against their transient nature. “Industries attracted solely by packages stay only as long as the incentives last. Once the benefits end, they pack up and leave. The industries that endure are those rooted in this land, run by people who are inherently connected to it,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges related to lease agreements for institutions and businesses.
“Today, schools on leased land are being asked to produce 10-year leases, failing which their registration will not be renewed. Similarly, hotels on leased land cannot even make minor repairs due to the absence of valid leases. These issues need immediate attention,” he added.
Omar Abdullah, in his conclusion, assured his government’s commitment to addressing industrial concerns.
“Whatever issues you want us to raise with the Finance Minister, please provide me with a detailed note. We will take them up with the Government of India and work toward tangible solutions,” he said.

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Launches 3rd Edition of “Kartavya Marg” Magazine at Raj Bhawan

Kartavya Marg

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha released the 3rd edition of “Kartavya Marg”, annual in-house magazine published by Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust, at Raj Bhawan today.

The Lieutenant Governor congratulated and extended his best wishes to the editor and everyone associated with the publication. He appreciated the efforts of all the members of Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust for promotion of Sanskrit and setting high standards for research on ancient knowledge system in Jammu Kashmir.

“Destiny of Jammu Kashmir will be decided by its youth and all the arms of government is committed to empower them, to provide support and guidance to realize their dreams. We need to enhance intellectual capacity and enrich the personality of our youth through knowledge and values of courage, compassion, sacrifice and selfless service,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The publication, edited by Mahant Rohit Shastri, President, Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust, features a number of research-oriented articles by renowned Sanskrit scholars and young researchers.

Trustees and members of Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust including Sh R K Chhibber, Prof Sharat Sharma, Sh Nigam Gupta, Sh Sunil Sharma, Sh Vinay Agarwal and Dr Sanjay Sharma were also present.

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Let Mamata Banerjee Claim Leadership if She Wants Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on INDIA bloc

Omar Abdullah Calls for Statehood

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Monday that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee can claim the leadership of INDIA bloc and said there would be a discusssion.

He said that the question of change in the leadership of the INDIA bloc does not arise since the bloc has not held any meeting after the Lok Sabha elections.

His remarks came in the light of few Trinamool Congress leaders advocating a change in the leadership of the INDIA bloc following the election drubbing of the Congress in the Maharahstra assembly polls.

The TMC leaders had also proposed the name of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to lead the anti-BJP front.

“There has been no meeting of the INDIA Bloc after the Lok Sabha elections, so the question of change of leadership does not arise. Let there be a meeting and let Mamata Banerjee claim the leadership if she wants… There would be discussion on it,’ CM Omar told reporter here.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-SCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday acknowledged the leadership potential of CM Banerjee, emphasising her prominence as a national leader and the competence of her party’s representatives in Parliament.

Pawar expressed his support, stating, “Yes, certainly (she is capable of leading the alliance). She is a prominent leader of this nation… she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so.”

On December 3, TMC MP Kirti Azad put his weight behind the proposal. “Mamata Banerjee has a 100 per cent record. Whenever Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced a humiliating defeat, it was only in West Bengal… Whenever he comes to insult Bengal and its honour, her vote share increases.”

He further had said that Mamata Banerjee is known for her articulate views and that “She is a very senior leader. She speaks clearly. She (Mamata Banerjee) resides in every household in West Bengal, in every household in the country… Mamata Banerjee is someone who takes everyone together. She calls people only after making preparations and taking her time,” he added.

On November 26, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee suggested that one strong leader is needed to lead the INDIA bloc following the defeat of Congress in the Haryana and Maharashtra assembly polls. He further said that the opposition alliance should be stronger to take on the BJP.

“The Congress has failed to achieve the desired result either in Haryana or in Maharashtra. We had tremendous hope from the Congress that they would do better. The INDIA alliance is there, but the expected result could not be achieved. And there is a great failure on the part of Congress to achieve the result… Today it is necessary if you want to fight against the BJP, the INDIA alliance should be stronger. And to make it stronger, one leader is required. Now, who can be the leader? That’s the core question. Congress has done it. All experiments have been done, but they have failed…” he stated. (ANI)

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Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra Appointed New RBI Governor

Sanjay Malhotra

Sanjay Malhotra, currently serving as the revenue secretary at the Ministry of Finance, has been appointed as the new Governor of Reserve Bank of India.

This appointment is effective December 11, 2024, and will continue for three years, as per an official notification from the Department of Personnel and Training on Monday.

Sanjay Malhotra is an Indian Administrative Service Officer of the 1990 Batch Rajasthan Cadre. He is an Engineering Graduate in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and has a Master’s in Public Policy from Princeton University, USA.

With demonstrated leadership and excellence in his career of over 33 years, Sanjay Malhotra has worked in multifarious sectors including power, finance and taxation, information technology, mines etc. Presently he is Secretary (Revenue) in the Ministry of Finance.

In his previous assignment, he held the post of Secretary in the Department of Financial Services under the Ministry of Finance.

He has extensive experience in finance and taxation at the State as well as the Central Government. As a part of his present assignment, he plays an instrumental role in tax policy formulation in respect of direct and indirect taxes.

Incumbent RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has served as the head of the central bank for six years and his term is ending on December 10. He steered his central banking roles quite smoothly, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic years.

Shaktikanta Das, a seasoned bureaucrat, previously served as the Secretary of the Department of Revenue and the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance. He assumed office as the 25th Governor of the RBI on December 12, 2018, with his term extended in 2021.

Before his role as RBI Governor, Das was a Member of the 15th Finance Commission and served as India’s G20 Sherpa. He has over four decades of experience in governance, holding key positions in both the central and state governments across areas such as finance, taxation, industries, and infrastructure.

During his tenure in the Ministry of Finance, Das was closely involved in the preparation of eight Union Budgets. He is a postgraduate from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. (ANI)

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J&K Pavilion Shines at Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX) 2024 in Amritsar

Punjab International Trade Expo

The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) set up and sponsored the Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at the 18th Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX), held in Amritsar from December 5-9, 2024. The pavilion, with its impressive showcase of traditional artistry, authentic products, and emerging entrepreneurial talent, became a focal point of the expo, garnering widespread appreciation from visitors, business delegations, and media alike.

With 30 dedicated stalls, including representation from 12 women entrepreneurs, JKTPO sponsored exhibitors from across Jammu and Kashmir who displayed their unique local artistry, making the pavilion a significant attraction for over four lakh visitors from India and abroad.

The Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion showcased a unique collection of products, such as Basohli Pashmina Shawls, Kani and Sozni embroidered clothes and stoles, the world-famous Kashmiri saffron, dry fruits and dried vegetables, hand-embroidered Phiran and Kashmiri garments, honey and Rajmash from the Jammu region.The pavilion turned into a vibrant hub where visitors not only purchased these exceptional products but also engaged directly with artisans, gaining insight into the stories and dedication behind each creation.

The event generated significant sales of over Rs 1 Cr and business leads with potential for future orders, promising substantial economic growth for artisans and entrepreneurs.

PITEX 2024 hosted exhibitors from both within India and abroad, with participants from 15 Indian states and various international representatives showcasing their products.

The success of Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at PITEX 2024 reflects the dedication of JKTPO to facilitating market access for local artisans and entrepreneurs. By fostering B2B and B2C engagements, the initiative continues to bridge cultures, support livelihoods, and drive economic growth in the Union Territory.

Building on successes of such activities, JKTPO has recently organized key events such as the JK Textile Sourcing Fair 2024 in Srinagar on 28-29 Nov,24, the Basmati Fair in Jammu, and participation in IITF 2024 in Delhi, showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s economic potential. Moving forward, JKTPO plans to participate in major events like the India International Mega Trade Fair in Kolkata, Indus Food, MITEX, Surajkund Mela, and Bharat Tex 2025, along with organizing the 2nd Agro & Food Fest on January 22, 2025, and the JK Trade Show 2025, Winter edition, January 31,2025.

Army Soldier Subaish killed in Accidental Mine Blast Along LoC in J&K’s Poonch

Subaish

An army trooper was killed in a mine blast near LoC in Mandi area of Poonch district on Monday.Officials told GNS that during patrolling along LoC, an army soldier accidently stepped on mine triggering a blast.

In this incident one army soldier (Havildar) identified as Subaish (39) was critically injured. He was immediately evacuated to hospital where doctors declared him brought dead.Meanwhile, police has registered a case in this regard and investigation has been taken up.(GNS)

Kashmiri Vendor Attacked at Geeta Jayanti Fair, Altaf Bukhari Condemns Incident

altaf

In a distressing incident at the Geeta Jayanti Fair in Kurukshetra, Haryana, a Kashmiri cloth vendor was targeted and attacked by miscreants, sparking outrage. The assault, which highlights the serious issue of communal disharmony and intolerance, has been strongly condemned by Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Altaf Bukhari. 

Bukhari described the attack as shameful and called for immediate legal action against the perpetrators. He emphasized the importance of upholding the country’s secular and democratic fabric, stating, “Strict legal action is necessary to prevent such acts in the future and uphold the rule of law.” 

In a silver lining to the unfortunate event, locals, reportedly from the Hindu community, intervened and rescued the vendor, showcasing a commitment to the values of coexistence and brotherhood.Bukhari commended this act, noting that the vast majority of communities in India believe in communal harmony and peaceful coexistence. 

The JKAP leader urged authorities to treat the incident with the utmost seriousness, ensuring justice is served. “These values are essential to protect the country’s secular and democratic spirit,” he remarked. (KNS)

Suspicious IED Detected on National Highway in JK’s Palhallan, Diffused

Suspicious IED

Security forces on Monday morning detected and defused an improvised explosive device (IED) along with Srinagar Baramulla national highway in Palhallan pattan area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

An official told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the IED was planted along with Srinagar Baramulla National highway at Palpora Palhallan in Pattan area.

The IED was spotted by the Road Opening Party of 29RR and the pattan police after which Bomb Disposal Squad was called in, he said.He added that traffic was stopped as a precautionary measure and was however resumed from the both sides of national Highway after BDS diffused the IED.

Meanwhile police has taken up the case and investigation in this regard has been initiated.(KNS)

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Suspicious Object Found on National Highway in Palhallan BDS Called-up

National Highway in Palhallan

A suspicious IED (Improvised explosive device) like object has been recovered on Monday early morning along National highway at palpora Palhallan in Pattan area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Official sources told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that a suspicious bag likely an IED has been found at National Highway near a private school in palpora Palhallan area of pattan.

Subsequently a team of police, 29RR of the army, SSB and CRPF rushed to the spot.Meanwhile bomb disposal squad has been Called up to ascertain the object .

However, traffic has been halted on both sides of the national highway as a precautionary measure.

More details will follow soon.(KNS)

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Sakeena Itoo Conducts Surprise Visit to District Hospital Kulgam, Suspends Three Absent Doctors

Sakeena Itoo

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today conducted surprise inspection of District Hospital Kulgam and took onspot assessment of medical care services being provided at the facility.

During the inspection, the Minister took round of different sections of the hospital including emergency unit, surgical ward, general wards and other facilities. She also interacted with staff of hospital and took detailed appraisal from them about the services being provided to the public at this facility.

The Minister took note of several issues of the hospital and assured the staff that the facilities at this hospital would be further strengthened by improving staffing levels and ensuring that medical professionals are always available to meet the needs of the people.

During the inspection, the Minister found three doctors absent from duties and suspended them immediately for dereliction of assigned duties.

Taking strong note of this irresponsible and unprofessional behaviour of doctors, the Minister maintained that absenteeism and neglect of duties would not be tolerated at all, adding that healthcare staff, particularly doctors, must uphold their commitment to patient welfare and adhere to their professional responsibilities.

During the visit, the Minister also interacted with patients and their attendants. She took on-spot feedback from them about the status of medical care facilities being provided at the hospital.

During the interaction with public at hospital, Sakeena Itoo underlined that the Omar Abdullah led Government is committed to provide world class healthcare services to the people in their vicinities. She assured them the medical facilities and infrastructure at this hospital will be upgraded so that the people are not forced to move outside for treatment.

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