Kashmir Reader

Committed to resolving livestock transport issue: CM to mutton dealers

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:56:03 +0000

High-level J&K delegation to visit Punjab for coordinated resolution
All bottlenecks affecting livestock movement will be addressed: Omar

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday met a delegation of mutton dealers from Jammu and Kashmir who apprised him of the difficulties they have been facing in transporting livestock through Punjab, an issue that has impacted the smooth supply of livestock into J&K.
Minister for Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana and Minister for Transport and Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma were also present during the meeting.
The delegation highlighted the challenges encountered during transit and sought the Chief Minister’s intervention to ensure the unhindered movement of livestock.
Giving a patient hearing to their concerns, the Chief Minister assured the delegation that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir is fully committed to resolving the issue and safeguarding the interests of traders, livestock transporters and consumers.
He informed the delegation that a high-level team of senior officers from the Government of Jammu and Kashmir will shortly visit Punjab to hold discussions with the concerned authorities and work towards an early, practical and mutually agreeable resolution to all issues affecting the transportation of livestock.
The Chief Minister’s intervention follows his earlier outreach to Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Mann, to whom he had written a D.O. letter urging the Punjab Government to facilitate the smooth and uninterrupted movement of livestock and address the difficulties faced by transporters from Jammu and Kashmir during transit. Responding promptly, the Punjab Chief Minister had assured that the matter would be examined on priority and necessary action would be taken to resolve the concerns.
The proposed visit of the high-level delegation forms part of the follow-up mechanism initiated by the two governments to ensure effective coordination and an early resolution of the issue.

Women’s empowerment key to Viksit J&K: LG Sinha

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:55:10 +0000

Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday felicitated 32 talented recipients of the Kashmir Women’s Organization (KWO) Fellowship, during a ceremony at Lok Bhavan, Srinagar.
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.

CM calls for modernization to ensure reliable, efficient electricity supply

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:54:33 +0000

Stresses focus on loss reduction, infra upgrades, financial sustainability
Directs timely completion of key projects, consumer-centric reforms

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Power Development Department, underscoring his government’s commitment to strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s power infrastructure through sustained reforms, modernization and improved 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.

Flash floods hit Chenab Valley, bury vehicles

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:54:18 +0000

Doda–Kishtwar Highway blocked

Jammu: Flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy overnight rainfall disrupted normal life in the Chenab Valley on Monday, blocking the Doda–Kishtwar National Highway, burying several vehicles under debris near the under-construction 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project and affecting traffic, including the annual Machail Yatra.
Officials said floodwaters carrying mud, rocks and boulders swept across National Highway-244 at Prem Nagar in Doda district, damaging a portion of the road and bringing traffic to a complete halt.
Vehicles were stranded on both sides of the highway as restoration work was launched to clear the accumulated debris and reopen the road.
The highway closure also disrupted the ongoing Machail Yatra, prompting authorities to advise pilgrims and other commuters to avoid the route until it was declared safe for travel.
In neighbouring Kishtwar district, heavy rainfall triggered a major landslide near the tunnel area of the under-construction 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project.
Several vehicles parked near the project site were buried under mud and debris, while many sustained extensive damage.
Officials said debris clearance operations were initiated immediately to retrieve the trapped vehicles and restore normal movement in the affected area. No casualties or injuries were reported in either of the incidents.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar forecast generally cloudy conditions with intermittent light to moderate rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days.
It said a few places, particularly in the Jammu division, could receive heavy rainfall or brief spells of intense showers during the late afternoon, evening and early morning hours.
The weather office said many areas of Kashmir were also likely to receive light to moderate rainfall with isolated intense showers during the afternoon and morning hours.
Similar weather conditions, accompanied by hot and humid weather between rain spells, were expected to continue from July 9 to 12.
The MeT department warned that heavy rainfall between July 6 and 8 could trigger localized flash floods, landslides and mudslides at vulnerable locations, particularly in the Chenab Valley and the Pir Panjal range. It advised people to stay away from streams, seasonal nallahs and landslide-prone areas.
Independent weather forecasters also cautioned that the interaction between a weak Western Disturbance and active monsoon winds could produce sudden heavy showers over parts of Jammu and Kashmir during the next three days.
They said the risk of high-intensity rainfall along the Amarnath Yatra routes through Pahalgam and Sonamarg would remain elevated, while isolated cloudburst-like events and landslides could not be ruled out. (KNO)

J&K Govt modifies CDF guidelines

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:53:07 +0000

MLAs authorized to provide medical assistance up to ₹20 lakh p/a for life-threatening diseases

Srinagar: In a significant move aimed at providing major financial relief to patients suffering from life-threatening ailments, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has ordered an amendment to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Scheme guidelines.
As per the official government order, sanction has been accorded allowing Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to utilize up to ₹20.00 lakh out of their annual CDF allocation exclusively for providing medical assistance to patients from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and other notified economically weaker categories.
Under the revised guidelines, financial assistance can be sanctioned up to a maximum limit of ₹5.00 lakh for organ transplantation, ₹2.75 lakh for cancer treatment, and ₹1.00 lakh for chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis, alongside other diseases notified by the government.
To ensure optimum utilization of resources, the assistance will be admissible for the uncovered portion of the treatment cost only after the patient has exhausted all eligible benefits under existing schemes, including PM-JAY SEHAT, Medical Aid Trust (MAT), and the Cancer Treatment and Management Fund for Poor (CTMFFP).
This timely welfare decision taken by the Omar Abdullah government is expected to benefit the poor patients suffering from critical ailments belonging to Below poverty line families and economically weaker categories to be notified by government.

Much-awaited ULB polls in J&K unlikely in 2026

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:52:37 +0000

Srinagar: The much-awaited Urban Local Bodies (ULB) polls in Jammu & Kashmir are unlikely to be held in 2026 due to the absence of an updated electoral roll, which will only be available after Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is undertaken in the Union Territory.
Officials disclosed to KNO that the chances of holding the electoral exercise in the UT this year are almost nil, as the updated electoral roll required for these polls will only be prepared after the SIR exercise is completed.
“Unlike Panchayat polls, the electoral roll for Urban Local Bodies is prepared on the basis of the electoral rolls of the Election Commission of India. No revision of electoral rolls has been undertaken in Jammu & Kashmir by the ECI since the 2024 Assembly polls,” they said, adding that this has made the conduct of ULB elections in 2026 highly unlikely.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) had said earlier this year that the SIR exercise in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh will be announced later, after considering the completion of Phase-II of the Census and weather conditions in snow-bound areas.
“After considering the completion of Phase-II of the Census in these three State/UTs and due consideration of the weather in the upper reaches/snow-bound areas, the SIR schedule for these three State/UTs will be announced later,” the EC had said in a press note.
The five-year terms of elected Urban Local Bodies in Jammu & Kashmir ended between October and December 2023. The UT has 78 Urban Local Bodies, including two Municipal Corporations.

Re-verification of controversial textbook content ordered

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:52:19 +0000

Srinagar: Following a recent controversy regarding the objectionable content in books, Jammu and Kashmir Samagra Shiksha on Monday re-constituted a committee to reverify the content of books under supply by various publishers.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Project Director of Jammu and Kashmir Samagra Shiksha in an order said that the committee will reverify the content and ensure that not a single objectionable word lies in these books.
“In view of disbanding of earlier committees and recent controversy in media regarding some objectionable content in books, sanction is accorded for re-constitution of committees to re-verify the contents of books under supply by various publishers under Library component (2025-26) both at Jammu and Srinagar,” reads the order.
It also said that “Since, no payment has been released in favour of the publishers under Samagra Shiksha and the same shall be released subject to the authentication of the committee regarding the veracity of the content.”
“The committee shall ensure that the material supplied to Govt schools promotes constitutional values, national integration, scientific temper and balanced historical perspectives,” reads the order.
It also said that the respective committees will function from Jammu and Srinagar districts and shall also verify the books supplied to the districts randomly and submit its report within a period of 30 days.

Pahalgam terror attack: NIA charges LeT chief Hafiz Saeed with waging war against India

Agencies — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:52:11 +0000

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday filed a supplementary chargesheet against Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistan-based chief of the banned outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in the Pahalgam terror attack case.
Saeed, already designated a global terrorist by India and the United States and recognised as the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has been charged in his individual capacity as well as in his role as the head of LeT and its active proxy front, The Resistance Front (TRF).
The supplementary chargesheet was submitted before the special NIA court in Jammu in which 76-year-old Saeed has been charged under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
“NIA has also invoked the penal section against the accused for waging war against India and hatching a conspiracy from across the border in the chargesheet,” a statement issued by the probe agency said.
The supplementary chargesheet provides details of Pakistan’s conspiracy, Saeed’s role, and supporting evidence collected by the NIA in the case through meticulous scientific investigation and on-ground examination, it said.
Saeed is one of the world’s most wanted trans-national terrorists, primarily recognised as the co-founder and chief of LeT formed in the late 1980s. He founded LeT, one of the largest and most active terror networks in South Asia, especially for his operations to target India.
He was the primary mastermind behind the devastating 2008 Mumbai attacks, where he orchestrated the logistics and training for the attackers who killed 166 people.
In order to fund his terror operations and evade international ban, Saeed set up prominent charity fronts, such as Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and the Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF), which were used to radicalise people and channel millions of dollars into financing of terror.
Because of his global operations, Saeed has also been designated a global terrorist by the United Nations Security Council, apart from India and the US.
The NIA chargesheet was in continuation of the original 1,597-page chargesheet filed by the anti-terror agency on December 15 last year in which it named Pakistani handler Sajid Jatt as an accused, along with three terrorists killed by security forces during Operation Mahadev in July 2025.
The chargesheet filed in December also named two arrested accused — Parvaiz Ahmad and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, who had provided logistical support to the terrorists.
It also charged the proscribed LeT/TRF terrorist organisation as a legal entity for its role in planning, facilitating, and executing the Pahalgam terror attack.
“The deadly attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on 22nd April, 2025 involved religion-based targeted killings by the Pak-sponsored terrorists. Twenty-five innocent tourists and one local civilian were killed in the attack,” the NIA statement said.
An FIR was initially registered by police station Pahalgam under Anantnag district in South Kashmir and after initial investigation by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the case was transferred to the NIA by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
“NIA continues to probe the case to unravel the complete conspiracy by Pakistan, which has been actively sponsoring terrorism on Indian soil from across the border,” the statement said.

J&K Sports Council clarifies Sports Quota Recruitment Rules

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:51:21 +0000

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council has taken serious note of certain reports, allegations and “misleading narratives” circulated through various media platforms and social media regarding the recruitment of Outstanding Sportspersons under the Sports Quota, particularly in relation to the implementation of S.O. 12 of 2022 and the recognition of Pencak Silat & Kyaking & Canoeing (Dragon Boat) as an eligible sports discipline.
“Since these reports have created confusion among sportspersons and the general public, the Sports Council considered it necessary to place the correct factual and legal position on record in the interest of transparency and public awareness,” the JKSC said in a statement.
The Sports Council clarified that the appointment of Outstanding Sportspersons in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is governed entirely by statutory Rules and Government Orders framed from time to time by the Government after detailed examination, inter-departmental consultation, legal scrutiny and approval of the Competent Authority. The policy has evolved over the years through various statutory notifications beginning with SRO-349 of 1998, subsequently amended through SRO-376 of 2004, followed by S.O. 149 of 2021 and thereafter comprehensively revised and consolidated through S.O. 12 of 2022, which was further supplemented by S.O. 412 of 2023.
These Government Orders collectively provide a transparent legal framework governing the appointment of Outstanding Sportspersons in Government service. They prescribe the recognized sports disciplines, eligibility conditions, assessment criteria, evaluation of sports achievements and the institutional mechanism for selection. Every provision contained in these Rules has been notified by the Government after due administrative and legal process and is binding upon all authorities concerned.
It is therefore incorrect to suggest that appointments under the Sports Quota are made on the basis of individual discretion or by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council independently. The Sports Council functions strictly as an implementing agency of Government policy and is required to discharge its responsibilities strictly in accordance with the Rules notified by the Government. The process of recruitment is institutional in nature and is carried out through a duly constituted High-Powered Selection Committee headed by the Chief Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir, with senior officers of various Government Departments Such as Administrative Home, Administrative secretary Law, as its members. Every application received under the Sports Quota is subjected to scrutiny of eligibility, verification of sports achievements and examination under the prescribed rules before being placed before the competent Selection Committee. Decisions are taken collectively in accordance with the statutory provisions, leaving no scope for arbitrary or individual decision-making.
The Sports Council also clarified the position regarding Pencak Silat, as certain misleading statements have been circulated questioning its recognition as a sports discipline. These claims are factually incorrect and contrary to official Government records. The Government of India, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, vide Order No. F. No. 9-32/2015-SP-I dated 03 November 2017, granted recognition to the Indian Pencak Silat Federation following the inclusion of the discipline in the 18th Asian Games held at Jakarta, Indonesia. Since then, Pencak Silat continues to enjoy national and international recognition and is governed globally by PERSILAT, the International Federation for the sport. It is played competitively across numerous countries and forms part of prestigious international sporting events, including the Asian Games, Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, Southeast Asian Games, Asian Youth Games, and World Championships, under the auspices of the Olympic Council of Asia, the continental Olympic body recognized by the International Olympic Committee. The sport is also featured in international university sporting competitions, including the ASEAN University Games.
At the national level, Pencak Silat is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, through the recognition granted to the Indian Pencak Silat Federation as the National Sports Federation. It is included in major sporting competitions such as the National Games, Khelo India competitions, and the All India Inter-University Championships, with athletes also benefiting from various Khelo India programmes in accordance with the applicable scheme guidelines. Pencak silat is also featured in All India Police Games. Furthermore, the Government of India has notified Pencak Silat as one of the sports disciplines eligible for recruitment of Meritorious Sportspersons in Central Government Ministries and Departments under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) policy, thereby affirming its official recognition for public employment.
In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, following the inclusion of the mentioned recognized sports disciplines in MYAS Central Govt DOPT, five new games which were already recognized by J&K Sports council / Govt of India viz baseball, netball, pencak silat, triathalon and Ice hockey were incorporated in the Job SRO 349 of 1998 read with SRO 376 of 2004 for consideration of appointment of outstanding sports persons by virtue of SO-149 of 2021 which is to be read with SRO-376 of 2004 and 3rd proviso of SRO 376 of 2004 states that achievements five year prior to advertisement shall be considered. Subsequently these games were also incorporated in the SO-12 of 2022 read with SO-412 of 2023 at serial no. 40,41,42,43,44 of ANNEXURE-I of SO-12. Further, Indian Pencak Silat Federation was recognized at Ministry of Youth Affairs and sports Govt of India in 2017 and stands registered in J&K Sports council from 2018 onwards till date.
That rule 7(i) of SO-12 also states that achievements in five year consideration zone shall be calculated. Consequently, Pencak Silat and Netball enjoys the same legal status as every other recognized sports discipline under the applicable Rules.
With regard to the consideration of sports achievements in Pencak Silat, it is further clarified that the matter had already been examined by the competent authorities. The issue was referred by the Scrutiny Committee to the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs for legal opinion. Based upon the legal advice received and the decision of the competent Selection Committee, the applicable position under the Rules was clarified, thereby ensuring uniformity and consistency in the consideration of eligible candidates. The matter, therefore, already stands settled through the prescribed legal and administrative mechanism established by the Government.
Pencak Silat is also included in Chief Commissioner of CGST, Central Excise & Customs advertisement for recruitment of sports persons 2025. Pencak silat is at s.no. 38.
Pencak Silat is also included in principal Chief Commissioner of Incometax ODISA. advertisement for recruitment of sports persons dated 05/06/ 2026. Pencak silat is at s.no. 38. Besides, it is also included in Assam Rifles Meritorious Sports persons Recruitment 2026. Advertisement dated 18/12/2025. Pencak silat Athletes are also recruited in Hrayana Government services
With regard to Kyaking & Canoeing, it is submitted that several sports disciplines consist of multiple recognized events have been conducted at National and International levels. For instance, in Athletics, Gymnastics, Fencing, Shooting, Wushu, roller-skating and Kayaking & Canoeing etc, various events are organized under the respective National and International Federations duly recognized by the Indian Olympic Association, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (Government of India), International Olympic Committee, and Olympic Council of Asia. As per the communication from SAI vide letter dated 15th January 2019 and Communication from IOA Indian Olympic Association vide letter dated 31st march 2017, Govt of India communication dated 25th April 2012 & IKCA letter dated 20th march 2012. ICF letter dated 12 September 2023.
These letters clarify that Dragon boat event is a part of Canoeing and in Kayaking & Canoeing recognized events include Calm Water (Canoe Sprint, Canoe Polo, Dragon Boat, Marathon), White Water (Slalom, Wild Water, Freestyle), and Salt Water (Canoe Sailing, Ocean Racing/Surfing), conducted under the aegis of the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association and the International Canoe Federation.
Likewise, in Gymnastics, sub-disciplines such as Artistic, Rhythmic, Trampoline, Tumbling, DMT, Acrobatic, Aerobics, and Parkour are conducted under the Gymnastics Federation of India and the International Gymnastics Federation.
In Fencing events such as Foil, Sabre, and Epee (Individual and Team) are conducted under the Fencing Association of India and the International Fencing Federation.
The Sports Council is deeply concerned that selective interpretation of Government notifications and circulation of inaccurate information have the potential to mislead the public and create unnecessary doubts regarding a transparent recruitment process that is entirely governed by statutory provisions. Such misinformation not only undermines confidence in public institutions but also affects the morale of genuine sportspersons who have devoted years of hard work, discipline and dedication to excel in their respective sports.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council reiterates that it remains fully committed to implementing Government policies in their true letter and spirit. Every decision taken by the Council is guided by the statutory Rules, Government Orders and the decisions of the competent authorities. The Council has consistently worked towards strengthening the sports ecosystem in the Union Territory by expanding sports infrastructure, encouraging grassroots participation, supporting athletes across all recognized disciplines and ensuring that opportunities are provided in a fair, transparent and merit-based manner.
The Sports Council appeals to all media organizations, stakeholders and members of the public to rely upon authentic Government notifications, official records and verified information while reporting or commenting on matters relating to sports administration. Constructive public discussion based on facts contributes to transparency and strengthens democratic institutions, whereas misinformation and speculative narratives serve only to create unnecessary confusion and undermine the credibility of established institutional processes.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council remains steadfast in its commitment to the promotion of sports, the welfare of athletes and the faithful implementation of the policies and decisions of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with law.

Omar pushes for making IMPARD premier training hub

KR Desk — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:51:11 +0000

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday chaired the 13th meeting of the Executive Council of the Institute of Management, Public Administration & Rural Development (IMPARD) at the Civil Secretariat, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, administrative excellence and good governance across Jammu and Kashmir.
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.