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Says success of Mission YUVA depends on close coordination between departments and banks

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: Chief Minister today chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of Mission YUVA, a flagship initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for the youth across Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Minister said that the real strength of Mission YUVA lies in the success stories emerging from the ground. “Wherever we find a speed breaker or friction, we will remove it swiftly,” he said, emphasizing that seamless coordination between departments and banks is essential to ensure that young entrepreneurs succeed.

He underlined that although the Mission is still in its early operational phase, the results are encouraging. “We have been discussing this for some time. The actual operational duration of these schemes is barely a few months, and in any scheme, that is a very short life cycle. The first year or so is spent in learning and fine-tuning. To that extent, with more than 10,000 sanctions and around 600–670 disbursements, I believe the success of Mission YUVA will feed on itself,” he said.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary Labour & Employment Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, MD & CEO J&K Bank Amitava Chatterjee, vice chancellors of several universities, Deputy Commissioners, Mission Director Mission YUVA, Director JKEDI, MD JKRLM, Directors of IIT and IIM Jammu, and representatives of BISAG, NABARD and other concerned institutions.

Outstation officers participated via video conferencing.

Earlier, Secretary Labour & Employment made a detailed presentation on the implementation status of Mission YUVA—from its conception to its evolution till date. He briefed the meeting about UDYAM Jagriti, a comprehensive awareness campaign, outlining its key features, phases and its role in amplifying success stories, objectives of district-level conferences and workshops, social media outreach and the dedicated mobile application.

The meeting discussed, threadbare, the next steps required to ensure the Mission’s successful implementation. It was informed that over 60,000 applications were received within just six months of the scheme’s launch.

The Chief Minister reviewed district-wise data of applications received over the last two years, the status of applications at various processing levels, average timelines for verification, week-on-week sanctioning trends by banks, progress at registration cells, training coverage and trainee monitoring.

J&K Bank also made a detailed presentation on the status of loan sanctions under Mission YUVA. It was informed that from the inception of the scheme, J&K Bank has sanctioned 10,172 cases, of which 9,393 have been collateral-free, reflecting strong institutional support for young entrepreneurs.

The Chief Minister directed all departments, financial institutions and implementation agencies to work in synergy and maintain momentum to ensure timely sanctions, smooth disbursal and robust monitoring mechanisms, enabling Mission YUVA to deliver transformative outcomes for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

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Promises transparency, simplified process in compassionate appointments

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reiterated his government’s commitment to clearing the backlog of compassionate appointments under SRO-43 and the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS-2022), assuring that all necessary relaxations would be granted wherever required to simplify and make the entire process fully transparent.

The Chief Minister was speaking at a function organised at the Convention Centre here where he handed over appointment orders to candidates under SRO-43 and RAS-2022, besides issuing regularisation orders to Contingent Paid Workers (CPWs) of the School Education Department.

The event was attended by Minister Sakina Itoo, Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary GAD M. Raju, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Secretary School Education Ram Nivas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, and a large gathering of beneficiaries and family members.

In his address, the Chief Minister, who is the Minister in charge of the General Administration Department, assured the beneficiaries that the government is determined to clear the backlog of cases under SRO-43 and RAS-2022.

“As far as the orders of SRO-43 are concerned, I assure you that we will try our best to dispose of the pending cases. We will grant relaxation in cases as per the norms and make this process as transparent as possible,”

the Chief Minister said.


Expressing deep empathy with families who approach the government during their most difficult hours, the Chief Minister stressed that compassionate appointments are not acts of favour but rightful entitlements under an established policy.

“On behalf of the government, our only effort is to help you in this difficult time. You should not feel that you are alone or that no one stands with you. If the government supports you in your moment of helplessness, this is not a favour—this is your right.”

Speaking about the long-pending cases of CPWs and their regularisation, the Chief Minister said

“For CPWs, this day carries a different meaning. As Sakina Sahiba has already mentioned, we will do our best to regularise CPW and issue orders. For those under RAS and SRO-43, I know many of you have suffered a lot to reach here. And I apologise to you for that.”

Regarding delay in processing of SRO 43/ RAS cases, he said

“This should not happen. When there is a government system, it should work automatically. I assure you—we will simplify the procedure further. We will reduce the difficulties you face. Since I hold the GAD portfolio myself, I will personally ensure that bottlenecks are removed.”

The Chief Minister said delivering these orders is a matter of duty, not generosity.

“If we increase your problems during this difficult time, we fail in our duty. These compassionate jobs are your right, and delivering them is our responsibility. If you had to wait long, I apologise for that. But I promise we will do everything possible to make the process easier.”

He urged the newly appointed beneficiaries to shoulder their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication.

“A heavy responsibility has come your way, perhaps earlier than expected. Do your best to fulfil it. We will always stand with you to make your work easier. If you face any difficulty, do not hesitate to knock on my door—I am always there for you.”

The Chief Minister added that more regularisation orders for CPWs would soon be issued by the Education Department under the supervision of Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo.

Speaking on the occasion, Sakina Itoo said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accorded top priority to clearing SRO-43 and RAS-2022 cases to ensure long-pending grievances are addressed.

She noted that many deserving candidates had been waiting for nearly a decade.

“After around 10 years of struggle, the deserving candidates finally received their due under the present government,” she said.

The Minister added that the regularisation of CPWs aligns with the government’s broader vision of extending relief to those who have devoted precious years of service to the School Education Department.

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I salute the resilience, determination and potential of Divyangjans. We are committed to building a system that aligns with their dreams and aspirations, eliminating all challenges and barriers: LG

LG calls upon all the officials, social organizations to pledge to protect and promote rights of Divyangjans

We must work with sensitivity, awareness, and a shared resolve to ensure their dignity and meaningful participation and guarantee access to education, skills, and livelihoods: LG

Inclusion of Divyangjans is the foundation of equitable development: LG Sinha

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, special efforts have been made to provide equal opportunities, equal rights, a quality life to our Divyangjan: LG

Together, we must build a J&K where accessibility is the norm, where every Divyangjan has access to all facilities, equal employment opportunities, and the advanced technical tools needed to live a life with dignity and respect: LG Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: “I salute the resilience, determination and potential of Divyangjans. We are committed to building a system that aligns with their dreams and aspirations, eliminating all challenges and barriers,” the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said on Wednesday. He was speaking at an “International Day of Persons with Disabilities” event at Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar.


The event was organized by Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRC), Jammu under the theme: "Celebrating Ability, Preserving Culture". The global theme for this year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities is "Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress".

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon all the officials and social organizations to pledge to protect and promote the rights of Divyangjans.

“Inclusion of Divyangjan is the foundation of equitable development. We must work with sensitivity, awareness, and a shared resolve to ensure their dignity and meaningful participation and guarantee access to education, skills, and livelihoods,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor shared the key initiatives of the UT Administration towards providing comprehensive support for socio-economic empowerment of Divyangjans.

He stated that, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, special efforts have been made to provide equal opportunities, equal rights, and a quality life to Divyangjans.

“Together, we must build a J&K where accessibility is the norm, where every Divyangjan has access to all facilities, equal employment opportunities, and the advanced technical tools needed to live a life with dignity and respect,” the Lieutenant Governor said,

The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the Composite Regional Centre, Jammu for its commendable efforts in rehabilitation and empowerment of Divyangjans.

Since 2024, CRC Jammu has conducted over 35,000 clinical surveys and distributed assistive devices worth over Rs 2 crore, transforming countless lives.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor handed over the assistive devices and kits to beneficiaries and also visited stalls put up by various social service organisations.

Shri Vikram Randhawa, Member of Legislative Assembly from Bahu; Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges; Dr. Rohnika Sharma, Director, CRC Jammu (Samba); senior officials, Heads of educational institutions, prominent citizens, members of various social organisations, students and people in large numbers were present.

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The decision follows concerns raised by the mobile phone industry regarding technical feasibility and user choice, shifting the focus to voluntary promotion.

New Delhi – The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has withdrawn its directive that made it mandatory for mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi application on all new smartphones sold in India. The move marks a significant policy reversal after industry bodies raised substantial concerns about the rule's feasibility and its impact on consumer choice.

The Sanchar Saathi portal, launched in May 2023, is a citizen-centric initiative by the government aimed at enhancing mobile security. It empowers users to block and trace lost or stolen mobile phones, check the authenticity of a device before purchase, and view and manage all mobile connections registered in their name. To boost its adoption, the government had initially mandated its pre-installation on devices, a move intended to make these security features readily accessible to every user from the moment they unbox their new phone.

However, the directive was met with strong opposition from the mobile manufacturing industry, led by the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), which represents major players like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi. The ICEA argued that the mandate posed significant technical and logistical challenges. They highlighted that forcing a single app into the complex, globally integrated software and supply chain ecosystem would be disruptive and time-consuming. Manufacturers pointed out that such a country-specific requirement would complicate production lines and could delay the launch of new models in the Indian market.

Furthermore, the industry raised valid points about user freedom and the issue of 'bloatware'. Forcing the app on every device, they contended, would limit a consumer's right to choose the applications they want on their personal devices. Pre-installing apps that a user might not need or want contributes to unnecessary clutter and consumes valuable storage space.

Acknowledging the feedback, the government has now opted for a more collaborative approach. Instead of a mandate, the DoT will work with manufacturers and industry stakeholders to promote the Sanchar Saathi app and encourage voluntary downloads. The new strategy will likely involve awareness campaigns, placing QR codes on smartphone packaging that link to the app, and making it easily discoverable on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

For consumers, this decision means they retain control over their device's software. They can still access the full suite of powerful features offered by Sanchar Saathi by simply downloading the application at their convenience. The core services of the portal remain fully functional, ensuring that the goal of enhancing citizen safety and curbing mobile phone theft is still actively pursued, albeit through promotion rather than compulsion.

This policy shift underscores a balanced approach, where the government's objective of national security and consumer protection is pursued in harmony with industry feasibility and the fundamental principles of user choice in a competitive digital market.


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NEWS

GHAROTA 3RD DECEMBER: MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana today inaugurated an Orientation and Training Camp aimed at empowering local youth and preparing them for employment opportunities in the hotel and hospitality industry across Jammu & Kashmir and other parts of the country. The programme has been organised in collaboration with ARC Hospitality, Jammu, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance skill development and open corporate avenues for the younger generation.

Over 200 enthusiastic youth, aged 18 to 27, participated in the inaugural session. The selected candidates will undergo an intensive 45-day free training programme, covering essential hospitality skills, professional grooming, communication, and workplace readiness. After completion, eligible trainees will be facilitated for placement in reputed hotels within and outside the Union Territory.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Devyani Rana emphasized the need for youth to take proactive steps in upgrading their skills in line with the evolving demands of the global job market. She highlighted that the hospitality sector offers immense opportunities for growth, stability, and exposure.

“Today’s world belongs to those who are willing to learn, adapt, and excel,” Ms. Rana said. “Our youth must come forward, enhance their skill sets, and confidently join the corporate world. With the right training and attitude, they can build rewarding careers not just in the UT but anywhere in the country. My vision is to see the youth of Nagrota and Jammu & Kashmir emerge as leaders, innovators, and professionals who contribute meaningfully to society.”

She reiterated her commitment to supporting initiatives that bridge the gap between education and employability, ensuring that young people have access to training programmes that align with industry requirements. Ms. Rana praised ARC Hospitality for creating a training and placement platform that nurtures talent and expands employment opportunities for local youth.

Also speaking on the occasion, Ms. Chitwan Khorana, CEO, ARC Hospitality, expressed confidence in the potential of the participants and outlined the organisation's mission.

Ms. Khorana said. “The hospitality sector is growing rapidly, and with structured training, we can help young individuals secure stable and prestigious careers. We are proud to partner with community leaders like Ms. Devyani Rana who share our vision for youth empowerment.”

The event concluded with an interactive session where experts briefed the participants about career paths, industry expectations, and the importance of professional discipline.


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JAMMU, DECEMBER 02: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha was today presented with a book authored by Major General Ranjan Mahajan (Retd.). The title of the book is "Kashmir in the Line of Fire".

The book provides a deeper understanding of Kashmir’s historical, cultural, and strategic significance. It presents a compelling narrative that blends strategic insight with deeply moving human stories.


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Exploring how AI, drones, and autonomous systems are creating smarter and more effective security solutions for tomorrow.

The Rise of Smart Guardians

For many years, security meant CCTV cameras on a wall and guards watching monitors. But today, technology is changing the world of security much faster. We are now entering an era of the next-gen remote surveillance robot. These are not just cameras; they are smart, mobile machines that can see, hear, and even think on their own. This new wave of robotics and automation is making our world safer in ways we never thought possible before.

From Fixed Cameras to Moving Guards

For a long time, security was passive. Cameras recorded footage, and guards watched screens. But this system had its limits. A human guard can get tired, and a fixed camera can only see one specific spot. The need for a better, more active solution led to the development of mobile security robots. Early versions were simple and often controlled by a person with a remote. However, the real revolution came with the introduction of AI in surveillance. Now, these machines can patrol large areas like factories, airports, and housing societies all by themselves. This is especially important for a fast-developing country like India, where the demand for efficient security robots India is growing with the expansion of smart cities and large industrial zones.

What Makes These Robots 'Next-Gen'?

The new generation of surveillance robots is packed with amazing technology. Here’s what makes them so special:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): The "brain" of the robot is its AI. It allows the robot to understand what it sees. For example, it can tell the difference between a person walking and someone trying to climb a fence. It can also detect potential dangers like fires, water leaks, or security breaches.
  • Autonomous Navigation: Using a combination of GPS, lasers (LiDAR), and advanced sensors, these robots can create a map of their environment and move around without any human help. This autonomous surveillance means they can patrol a pre-defined route 24/7, without ever needing a break.
  • Advanced Sensors: These robots can have much more than just a normal camera. Many are equipped with thermal cameras to see clearly in complete darkness, microphones to detect specific sounds like glass breaking, and even sensors to check for harmful gases or chemicals.
  • Drone Technology: Security is not just limited to the ground. Drone technology has given us powerful eyes in the sky. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can cover huge areas quickly, providing a bird's-eye view of a situation, which is very useful for monitoring large public events, industrial sites, or remote border areas.

Benefits and Challenges of Smart Security

The move towards smart security systems using robots has many clear advantages. They can work in dangerous conditions where it’s unsafe for humans. They provide constant, reliable monitoring and reduce the chance of human error. Furthermore, the data they collect can help security experts predict and prevent problems before they even happen.

However, there are challenges to consider. These advanced robots are expensive to buy and maintain. There are also important questions about privacy. How do we ensure that these powerful surveillance tools are not used to spy on innocent people? As a society, we need to create clear rules and laws to govern their use, ensuring a balance between security and the fundamental right to privacy.

The next-generation remote surveillance robot is no longer a concept from a science fiction movie. It is a real and powerful tool that is reshaping the future of security. By combining artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and autonomous movement, these machines offer a level of protection that was previously unimaginable. While we must carefully manage the costs and ethical concerns, the potential of these smart guardians to create a safer environment for everyone is undeniable.

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Dr. Ganesh Baraiya's journey from a Supreme Court victory against the medical council to serving as a government doctor inspires many.

Bhavnagar, Gujarat – Dr. Ganesh Baraiya, who stands at three feet tall, has begun his medical career as a medical officer at a government-run Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Bhavnagar, five years after a landmark Supreme Court ruling allowed him to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor.

In 2018, the Medical Council of India (MCI), now the National Medical Commission, had disqualified Dr. Baraiya from pursuing an MBBS degree, citing his short stature due to dwarfism. The council's committee argued that he would be unable to perform essential duties, including emergency procedures, because of his height. This decision denied him a place in medical school despite clearing the entrance examination.

Determined not to give up, Dr. Baraiya, then 18, challenged the decision. He first approached the Gujarat High Court, which upheld the MCI's decision. Undeterred, he took his case to the Supreme Court of India. In a significant judgment in 2018, the apex court ruled in his favour, stating that his disability should not be a barrier to his education. The court affirmed that he was eligible for admission into the MBBS program.

Following the verdict, Dr. Baraiya enrolled at the Government Medical College in Bhavnagar. He successfully completed his MBBS degree and is now undertaking his internship at the Sir-T hospital, affiliated with the same college, before serving at the PHC.

Speaking about his experience, Dr. Baraiya has stated in multiple interviews that while patients are often surprised by his height initially, they quickly become comfortable and cooperative once he begins his work. He expressed immense satisfaction in being able to serve the community and fulfill the dream he fought relentlessly to achieve.

Dr. Baraiya's story is a powerful testament to perseverance against systemic hurdles. His legal victory has set a precedent, challenging discriminatory norms and paving the way for other differently-abled individuals to pursue careers in medicine and other fields from which they might have been previously excluded.

He is currently serving his duties as a medical officer, handling numerous patients daily and has been warmly accepted by both his colleagues and the local community he serves.


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JAMMU, DECEMBER 02: Educational institutions across Jammu Division organised multiple activities to mark World AIDS Day, spreading awareness about prevention and working to remove the stigma attached to the disease.


Government Polytechnic Reasi: Under the guidance of Principal Er Arun Bangotra, the Institution’s Red Ribbon Club, in collaboration with J&K State AIDS Control Society, organised diverse activities. These included a poster making competition, debate competition, and a Rangoli contest. An awareness rally, comprising 150 students, disseminated prevention messages, followed by faculty-led sessions emphasising early testing, safe practices, and eliminating stigma against HIV/AIDS.


GDC Ramkote: The Red Ribbon Club of Government Degree College Ramkote, in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society, organised a Poster Making Competition themed "Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response". Students from BA Semester Ist participated, creating attractive posters to express their views on HIV/AIDS. A total of 10 students took part in the competition, which was organised under the guidance of College Principal Dr. Rakesh Kumar Koul.

NEWS

GDC Paloura: As part of the AIDS Awareness Week 2025 campaign, the Red Ribbon Club of Government Degree College Paloura, in collaboration with the NSS Unit of the college, organised a Walkathon. The event aimed to foster awareness about the prevention of AIDS and other STI diseases. The walkathon concluded with a collective pledge to support victims of HIV/AIDS by removing related taboos.

GCW-Gandhi Nagar: The Red Ribbon Club, PSPS GCW, Gandhi Nagar, in collaboration with J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS), H & ME Department, organised a Poster Making competition, Rangoli making Competition, and a Walkathon. These activities were held under the aegis of this year’s theme ‘Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response’.

In the Rangoli Making Competition, First position was bagged by Samudhani & Group 7th sem, Second position went to Sanchita & Group-7th Sem, and the Third position was shared by Vanshika & Group and Akriti Khanna & Group 7th Sem.

Esha secured the first position in the poster making competition, while Sakshi bagged second position, and Afsana Kouser (all from the 7th Sem) secured the third position.


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