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DC, SSP join celebrations at Sports Stadium

  POONCH, OCTOBER 2: On the auspicious occasion of Dussehra, a grand celebration was held at the Sports Stadium Poonch. Deputy Commissioner Ashok Kumar Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police Shafaket Hussain Bhat, Additional Superintendent of Police Mohan Lal along with several other civil and police officials attended the celebration.

The event began with a special Pooja in reverence of the cultural and spiritual essence of the festival, which was followed by the ceremonial burning of the effigy of Ravan, symbolizing the eternal victory of good over evil.

The Deputy Commissioner and SSP extended warm wishes to the people of Poonch. They highlighted the significance of Dussehra in promoting unity, peace and the rich cultural heritage of the Country.

The celebration drew large crowds from across the district, with families and friends coming together to witness the vibrant festivities. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, joy and community spirit marking a successful and memorable Dussehra celebration.


 DODA, OCTOBER 2: The Department of Youth Services and Sports successfully concluded the Inter-District Divisional Level Kabaddi U/17 Boys Tournament at the Indoor Sports Stadium Doda.

The event witnessed remarkable enthusiasm and showcased the true spirit of talent, teamwork and sportsmanship.

The grand finale featured an intense and thrilling contest in which District Ramban emerged victorious, defeating District Doda by just two points. The narrow margin made the match highly engaging and kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

During the prize distribution ceremony, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Jaffer Haider Sheikh praised the athletes, coaches and officials for their dedication. He extended gratitude to the organizing committee, medical staff, control room, mess committee and other supporting teams for ensuring the smooth conduct of the tournament.

The concluding ceremony was attended by dignitaries including ZPEO Drabshalla, Subash Chander, Activity In-charge Javed Iqbal Sheikh and Games Fund In-charge Shahnawaz Ahmad Qazi. They joined in felicitating the winners and runners-up. The event highlighted the department’s commitment to nurturing young sporting talent across the Union Territory.

 


Thousands Gather at Parade Ground for Dussehra Celebrations in Jammu

Jammu, October 2, 2025: The city of Jammu celebrated the auspicious festival of Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, today with great religious enthusiasm and community spirit. The main function, which marked the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, was centred around the Parade Ground where thousands of devotees had gathered to witness the ceremonial burning of effigies.

The day-long festivities followed the culmination of the nine-day Navratri period. In the morning, special prayers (pujas) were held at prominent temples across the region. Throughout the day, Shobha Yatras (grand processions) carrying the chariots of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga wove through the bustling city streets, ultimately leading to the main venues.

The major highlight was the Ravana Dahan (burning of Ravana) ceremony, which took place in the evening. Towering effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnath had been set up at the Parade Ground, Gandhi Nagar Dussehra Ground, and other key locations. This symbolic act, accompanied by dazzling fireworks, was carried out during the auspicious time between 6:14 PM and 7:10 PM in Jammu.

A notable feature of the celebrations this year was the spirit of communal harmony. The giant effigies that were burnt were crafted by a team of Hindu and Muslim artisans who travelled from Meerut, reinforcing the message that the festival is a symbol of unity and cooperation.

The Chief Minister had extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the festival “inspires people to uphold the values of truth, righteousness, and justice.”

The celebrations continued late into the night with traditional fairs (melas) offering food stalls and cultural programs showcasing Dogra folk arts. Authorities ensured smooth dispersal of the crowds after the main ceremony concluded.

 


Katra, October 2: Reaffirming its commitment to social support in the field of education, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has launched a comprehensive initiative to repair and renovate government schools in the Reasi district that were damaged by recent rains and landslides.

The Shrine Board, acting on the directives of its Chairman, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, has prioritized the urgent restoration of the affected government schools.

The schools identified for immediate intervention are located in Katra and its adjoining areas, including Purana Daroor, Chumbra, Kakryal, Bratisala, Bagha, Panthal, Sarhi, Sirla, Hansali, Chack Bhagta, Manoon, Chamba, Dadura, Doomar, Gabber, Kanika, Kanyala, Dhanoo, Geeta Nagar, and Chanjute. 

These schools faced extensive damage to classrooms, boundary walls, and sanitation facilities following heavy rains and subsequent landslides. In some cases, students were attending classes in temporary shelters or open spaces.

Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB has directed the concerned officials to accord highest priority to the restoration of affected schools and ensure timely completion of the works after assessing the extent of damage. He emphasized that the initiative must be executed with urgency so that children in these areas can resume their education without further disruption. The CEO affirmed that the Board shall continue to stand by the people of Reasi, especially in times of adversity. The restoration work will be carried out in a phased manner over the coming months, with immediate attention on the most severely damaged schools.

As part of its social support initiatives, the Shrine Board has consistently undertaken infrastructure development and upgradation projects in Katra and its adjoining areas aimed at promoting the overall socio-economic growth of the region.

Over the years, the Board has successfully executed several civic improvement works in Katra town, including the renovation and upgradation of the Government Girls High School at Banganga Road, installation of ornamental railings and dual-lamp LED street lights along the central verge of the road leading to the Railway Station, Katra, besides the provision of children’s playground equipment at Shalimar Park. Additionally, the Board facilitated the construction of roads and drainage systems in Ward No. 2 of Katra. The Shrine Board has also extended financial assistance to the Municipal Committee, Katra, enabling the execution of various development projects and enhancement of sanitation and other civic amenities in the town.

 



MENDHAR, OCTOBER 02: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today underscored the urgent need for collective and sustained efforts to preserve, protect and promote the tribal values that have long defined the identity of communities in the Pir Panjal region.

Speaking at a vibrant Tribal Mela organized by the Tribal Affairs Department in collaboration with the local District Administration at Sagra in Mendhar, Poonch, the Minister emphasized that tribal development must not come at the cost of cultural erosion.

He called for an integrative approach that harmonizes progress with tradition, cautioning that the unchecked spread of modern influences could dilute the deep-rooted tribal customs and moral frameworks that are inherently community-driven and inclusive.

The Minister reiterated Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to fostering a development paradigm that is inclusive, respectful of tribal traditions and capable of building a resilient and self-reliant tribal society.

He lauded the efforts of the Tribal Affairs department and District administration in organizing the Mela, calling it a meaningful step towards engaging with people and development with dignity.

The Mela, which drew significant participation from the local populace, served as a celebration of tribal life, customs and wisdom. It provided a platform to showcase rich cultural heritage of the Tribals, featuring traditional tribal food that reflects the culinary diversity of indigenous communities.

In addition, local medicinal plants were exhibited, highlighting the traditional knowledge systems that continue to play a crucial role in rural healthcare practices.

A free medical camp was also organized, providing health consultations and services to the public. The event not only reinforced the importance of cultural continuity but also reflected the Government’s resolve to ensure that development policies remain rooted in the lived realities of tribal societies.

 Chairperson, District Development Council Poonch, Tazeem Akhtar; Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Ashok Kumar Sharma; senior officers of district administration and large number of locals were present on the occasion.

 

Basohli Utsav 3.0 inauguration by Manoj Sinha Jammu Kashmir

Basohli, Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir - The third edition of the Basohli Utsav, a five-day festival celebrating the region's rich art and cultural heritage, was inaugurated on September 28, 2025, in the historic town of Basohli. The event was officially opened by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, and was held alongside the Navratri celebrations.

Organized by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the divisional administration of Jammu, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts, the festival aimed to promote Basohli's unique traditions, especially its world-renowned Basohli paintings, which received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2023. This year's festival, themed around the traditions of the Ramayana, included a variety of events such as Ram Leela enactments, exhibitions, and cultural performances.

The festival provided a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their crafts, including the famed Basohli Pashmina. An Investor Meet was also organized for the first time to help these artisans expand their markets and improve their livelihoods. The event also featured traditional sports like Santolia and Stapu, and competitions in painting and Bhajan singing, encouraging the youth to connect with their cultural roots. The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, called the event a "Mahakumbh of art, culture and tradition" and highlighted its role in promoting "Brand Basohli" globally. He stated that a 'whole of government' approach was needed to promote Basohli paintings and ensure the prosperity of its artists.

In addition to cultural events, the festival was used to raise social awareness. Programs on topics like 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' and other government welfare schemes were conducted. The event also included a special laser and beam show that depicted themes of Ram Leela, Navratri, and patriotism. One of the major highlights was the Puroshani Aarti, a grand prayer ceremony held on the banks of the Ravi River near the Atal Setu bridge, which drew a large crowd. The festival was seen as a way to boost tourism and the local economy, while also preserving the region's historical and artistic legacy.

The Basohli Utsav, which will become an annual event, concluded on October 2, 2025. The organizers hoped that the festival would continue to grow, bringing more recognition and prosperity to the Basohli region and its people.


 Inaugurates mega job fair under Mission Yuva at Convention Centre Jammu

JAMMU, SEPTEMBER 27: In a landmark initiative to empower the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, a Mega Job Fair was organized today under the Mission YUVA at the Convention Centre, Jammu by Employment Department J&K.

The event was inaugurated by the Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary which witnessed enthusiastic participation from all stakeholders including job seekers, employers, government officials, and academic institutions.



Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister encouraged the youth to fully utilize the opportunities offered under Mission YUVA. “This is not merely a scheme, it is a transformative movement aimed at building a self-reliant and empowered generation,” he remarked.

He reiterated that the government under the leadership of CM Omar Abdullah is committed to open new avenues for the unemployment educated youths and enhanced job opportunities for them.

Surinder Choudhary maintained that this Mega Job Fair under Mission YUVA stands as a milestone in the government’s continued efforts to equip the youth of Jammu & Kashmir with the tools, resources, and opportunities necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving socio-economic landscape.

Deputy Chief Minister said that Mission YUVA is a flagship and first-of-its-kind initiative of the J&K government, envisioned to holistically empower the youths by providing a robust ecosystem for employment, entrepreneurship, and skill development.

He added that it offers strong institutional support and financial assistance under credit-linked schemes to support new and existing enterprises, capacity building for entrepreneurial and employability skills, career counseling, guidance, market linkage, etc.

The Job Fair attracted an overwhelming response with over 2,200 job seekers in attendance and more than 55 prominent companies participating, collectively offering 1,500+ vacancies across various sectors such as IT, manufacturing, finance, retail, and healthcare. The fair served as a dynamic platform for employment generation, bridging the gap between skilled youth and potential employers.

A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of the three major Platforms on Mission YUVA app and Portal by the Deputy Chief Minister viz Online Job Matching Platform, enabling the job search and recruitment process through real-time interaction between employers and job seekers, Enterprise Mentorship Initiative providing mentorship to budding entrepreneurs and ONDC- based E-commerce platform enabling enterprises to showcase and sell their goods online across wider markets.

Nearly 83 Employers, 17 job posts and 631 applications submitted on Online Job Matching Platform and about 228 Enterprises applied for mentorship under Enterprise Mentorship Initiative till date.

The event also marked a significant step toward entrepreneurship promotion in the region, with sanction letters handed over to 55 young entrepreneurs under Mission YUVA’s credit-linked schemes. These beneficiaries will be establishing ventures under the Nano Enterprises and Business Acceleration of Existing Enterprises categories, transforming their ideas into sustainable businesses with financial and institutional support.

The occasion also saw the culmination of the YUVA UDHYAM FEST, a celebration of youth potential through various competitions such as speech, essay writing, painting, and quiz. Twenty-four outstanding youth were felicitated by the Deputy Chief Minister with cash prizes and certificates in recognition of their talent and creativity. A total of 264 students were declared winners in the FEST throughout the UT.

At the outset, Shahzad Alam, Director Employment and Managing Director of Mission YUVA, in his welcome address, provided an insightful overview of the various components and the vision behind the initiative. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Paramjeet Singh Joint Director Employment, Jammu.