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KISHTWAR, OCTOBER 03: The Sewa Parv campaign concluded successfully in District Kishtwar after an intensive 16-day schedule of activities and overwhelming public participation.

Anchored around the core themes of service, social responsibility and departmental accountability, Sewa Parv saw active participation from government departments, civil society organizations, local bodies, students and citizens across the District. The fortnight-long programme, inspired by the ethos of collective action, focused on reaching the last mile and addressing grassroots needs.

The event recorded an impressive footfall of over 3.43 lakh participants across the district, who came together to contribute, celebrate and uphold the spirit of service and community welfare.

 With 77 diverse activities organized by government departments, the observance addressed key sectors including health, education, environment, social welfare and more.

During the campaign, cleanliness drives were held in public spaces alongside community-led tree plantation initiatives. Awareness programmes promoted dry and wet waste segregation, reduction of single-use plastic and eco-friendly practices. Donation drives for books, stationery and clothes supported underprivileged students while school beautification campaigns improved educational spaces.

Health check-up camps were organized in both rural and urban areas, complemented by blood donation drives and visits to old-age homes and orphanages. Nutrition and wellness sessions, workshops on organic farming, water conservation and digital literacy events, along with skill development camps further strengthened the community empowerment.

Students actively participated in slogan, and essay writing competitions, while special workshops were held to guide citizens in applying for welfare schemes online.

This year’s Sewa Parv also emphasized inter-departmental collaboration, ensuring that responsibilities were shared and outcomes were measurable.

Departments undertook self-assessment exercises and engaged with the public through interaction sessions to gather feedback and improve service delivery.

Concluding on 2nd October, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the observance paid homage to his ideals of selfless service, cleanliness and social justice.



KISHTWAR, SEPTEMBER 26: To review the district's financial and developmental progress, a District Level Review Committee (DLRC) meeting for the quarter ending June 2025 was held today under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma .

The meeting brought together senior officials from banks and various government departments.

Discussions focused on evaluating credit flow under government-sponsored schemes, financial literacy efforts, and achievements in priority sectors such as Agriculture, Horticulture and MSMEs. Key schemes reviewed included the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), PM Mudra, PMFME, NRLM, social security schemes and programs promoting entrepreneurship.

The DC also reviewed Mission YUVA and various schemes of financial inclusion, including the Spurring initiative, PMJJBY, PMJDY, APY and others stressing their importance in empowering youth, expanding social security coverage, and ensuring inclusive growth.

He expressed concern over the slow progress by some banks, particularly private banks, in the priority sector and directed them to improve their performance and meet set targets promptly. He emphasized the importance of supporting agriculture, allied sectors, HADP, small enterprises, and women-led businesses.

To strengthen financial outreach, the DC instructed the Lead District Manager (LDM) to prepare a Camp Calendar and Convergence Plan for door-to-door awareness and service delivery.

These camps will be conducted in coordination with banks and relevant departments to bring services closer to the people and create awareness regarding the on-ground implementation of various schemes.

Reviewing the first-quarter performance, the DC directed all departments and banks to work in close coordination to promote entrepreneurship, ensure timely loan disbursement, and remove any barriers to project implementation.

The meeting was attended by CPO Kishtwar Akhil Thakur, LDM Harsh Rawal,AD Handicrafts Kishtwar Pardeep Shan, LDO RBI Amandeep Singh, and representatives from various departments and financial institutions.


 

KISHTWAR, SEPTEMBER 26: The Department of Youth Services & Sports (YS&S) Kishtwar successfully conducted a series of competitions on the second day of the ongoing Inter District Division level U/19 Boys Kabaddi Tournament and Inter Division UT Level Wushu U/17 & U/19 Boys Tournament. The venue was the Indoor Sports Stadium Doda.

The day witnessed high-energy matches in both Kabaddi and Wushu, where young athletes demonstrated exceptional skills, discipline and team spirit. The enthusiastic participation reflected the growing sports culture among the youth of the region.

The highlight of the day was the prize distribution ceremony, where DYSSO Kishtwar accompanied by ZPEOs Drabshalla, Activity In-charge, Games Fund In-charge and sports officials from Doda & Kishtwar, Wushu Players felicitated the winners and runners-up with medals and certificates. District Poonch won the Kabaddi – U/19 Boys final, beating District Ramban. 

The officials lauded the dedication, sportsmanship and hard work of the participants, encouraging them to continue pursuing excellence in their respective disciplines.


 

At least 30 feared dead as flash floods ravage Chositi village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, disrupting the Machail Mata Yatra.

August 14, 2025, Chositi, Kishtwar District, Jammu and Kashmir

A massive cloudburst struck Chositi village in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, triggering flash floods that have left at least 30 people feared dead and caused widespread devastation.

The cloudburst hit Chositi, the last motorable village en route to the Machail Mata shrine, between 12 noon and 1 pm, during the ongoing Machail Mata Yatra, a major pilgrimage attracting thousands. The flash floods swept away homes, shops, a community kitchen (langar), and a security post, leaving many trapped under debris. Rescue operations, involving the NDRF, SDRF, army, and local police, are underway but face challenges due to washed-out roads and adverse weather conditions. 

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as “grim,” stating, “Verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilized.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured full support, noting, “NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” Local MLA Sunil Sharma highlighted the scale of the tragedy: “The catastrophe is widespread in Chositi... You can see devastation, deaths, and injuries everywhere.”

Reports indicate at least 30 confirmed deaths, including two CISF personnel, with fears the toll may rise as many remain missing. Over 160 people have been rescued, and 38 are critically injured. The flash floods damaged infrastructure across a 500-meter radius, including vehicles and structures along the pilgrimage route.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected... Every possible assistance will be provided.” On X, posts reflected public grief and urgency, with visuals showing mud-covered roads and debris. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha directed enhanced rescue efforts, emphasizing aid to affected families.

Chositi, located 90 km from Kishtwar town, serves as the base for the 8.5-km trek to the Machail Mata shrine. The annual yatra, running from July 25 to September 5, draws heavy pilgrim traffic, increasing vulnerability during monsoons. Similar cloudbursts have recently struck other Himalayan regions, like Uttarkashi, highlighting the region’s susceptibility to extreme weather.

The Chositi cloudburst has caused unprecedented loss, disrupting a sacred pilgrimage and leaving a community in mourning. Rescue operations continue amidst challenging conditions, with authorities urging calm and promising comprehensive aid. The coming days will focus on recovery and assessing the full extent of the damage, as concerns grow over the region’s increasing vulnerability to climate-driven disasters.

 

machail mata yatra distance, registration and route info

KISHTWAR, JULY 26: The revered Shree Machail Mata Yatra 2025, which officially commenced on July 25, 2025, touched nearly 5 thousand mark with 4,944 pilgrims (3861 males, 776 females and 307 children) performing Darshan at the Holy Shree Chandi Mata Mandir at Village Machail in Paddar Valley.

This annual Yatra is one of the most significant pilgrimages in the Jammu Division as its popularity has soared in past years, with about 3 lakh pilgrims visiting last year alone.

Pilgrims along with the holy mace (Chhari) procession will proceed from Jammu on August 17 towards Darbar following traditional path and transits. The Yatra shall conclude on 5 September.

The weather at Machail Bhawan remains clear, ensuring a smooth experience for the devotees.

The Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar in collaboration with the district administration Kishtwar, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and local administration, is diligently working to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the Yatris this year.

Langars by devotees near Bhawan Machail and en-route are offering meals to the pilgrims. Additionally, lodging facilities have been made available at the Yatri Bhawan Gulabgarh, Sapphire Guest House, luxury mushroom tents, along with various tent accommodations and Yatri Sarai near Chandi Mata Bhawan, Machail for the comfort of the devotees.

With the footfall expected to exceed 5 lakh this year, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma has appealed Yatris to follow guidelines/SoPs and Yatra timings religiously.

The Departure Timing from Kishtwar to Gulabgarh  is 05:00 AM to 05:00 PM, Gulabgarh to Machail - 04:30 AM to 04:30 PM and Arrival Timing Machail to Gulabgarh - 04:30 AM to 04:30 PM, Gulabgarh to Kishtwar- 05:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

To ensure a safe and pleasant journey for the pilgrims, the administration has upgraded the road connectivity and made adequate arrangements of water supply, sanitation, security and online registration through the website.

The addition of a road up to Chashoti on the Gulabgarh to Machail axis has significantly reduced the trekking distance, now taking approximately 3-4 hours. Furthermore, the road from Chishoti to Hamori is clear, with the only pending work being the construction of a bridge at Chishoti, which is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed soon.

New bridges and repairs to existing infrastructure aim to provide a safe and hassle-free experience for Yatris amid challenging geography.

The pilgrims can visit the official Machail Yatra website at www.shrimachailmatayatra.com for online registration and get updated information regarding the Yatra, including, routes and other facilities.

This resource is designed to help pilgrims stay informed and address any queries they may have. Yatris are advised to carry their Aadhar cards and review the guidelines on the website.

The administration remains committed to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all devotees participating in the Shree Machail Yatra this year.

 


KISHTWAR, JULY 03: The revered Annual Yatra of Shri Ashtadash Bhuja Mata Sarthal Devi Ji commenced today in Kishtwar, marking the beginning of a joyous and spiritually significant event.

The yatra began with a grand Hawan ceremony held at Gori Shankar Mandir, Sarkoot, where devotees fervently offered Aahuti and Puran Aahuti (sacred oblations).

Accompanied by an impressive Shoba Yatra, the Chari Mubarak (holy procession) proceeded through Chowgan Ground, Shaheedi Chowk, and the Bus Stand, starting from Gori Shankar Mandir.

Thousands of devotees, including men, women, and children, enthusiastically chanted religious slogans and bhajans, while traditional "Paddari Dance" to drum beats resonated along the procession route.

Local communities from various neighborhoods extended a warm welcome to the Holy Chari.

At the Bus Stand, devotees boarded buses and other vehicles to make their way to the historic Shri Sarthal Devi Temple in Kishtwar.

A grand Jagran (night-long devotional singing) is going to be organized today at the Sarthal Devi Mata Bhawan, adding to the spiritual fervor of the yatra.

Tomorrow morning, on 04 July, a Maha Yajna (grand religious ritual) will be performed at Sarthal Devi Mandir.

The district administration and police have made meticulous arrangements for security, drinking water, power supply, transportation, and other essential facilities at Kishtwar and Sarthal to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for the devotees.

Sarthal Devi Ji is revered as the "Kul Devi" (patron goddess) of the region.

The historic yatra has been organized every year since the Dogra regime, and each devotee holds a deep and unique faith in this sacred pilgrimage.

The yatra is annually organized by the Shri Sarthal Devi Ji Trust, under the patronage of Dr. Karan Singh, the sole trustee and Vikramaditya Singh, Chairman Trustee of the Trust.

Pooja Thakur, Chairperson of the District Development Council (DDC) Kishtwar; MLA Kishtwar, Shagun Parihar; Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma; prominent socio-religious personalities of Kishtwar; key officers from the civil and police administration; Arvind Parihar, President of Santan Dharma Sabha and Sanjeev Parihar, Vice Chairman of Shri Sarthal Devi Ji Trust, among others were present on the occasion.


 KISHTWAR, JUNE 29: In a spiritually charged atmosphere, the Pavitra Charri (Holy Mace) of the revered Shree Hudh Mata and Trisandhya Mata Yatra 2025 commenced its onward journey to Dachhan, accompanied by a large number of enthusiastic devotees.

The Holy Mace, which arrived in Kishtwar on Saturday, was ceremoniously received and revered at Shree Gori Shankar Mandir, Sarkoot, where it rested overnight. The following day, the Yatra resumed with full fervor, marking a significant spiritual event in the region’s calendar.

Leader of Opposition, Sunil Sharma, MLA Kishtwar, Shagun Parihar and Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma flagged off the Pavitra Charri (Holy Mace) towards Dachhan.

A large number of local residents and devotees, along with senior officers from the civil and police administration, gathered to pay their respects, offer prayers and seek blessings.

The district administration under the leadership of the DC Kishtwar has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the Yatra. All necessary facilities have been put in place to facilitate the devotees along the sacred route.

The Shree Hudh Mata and Trisandhya Mata Yatra hold immense religious significance and continue to inspire devotion and unity among the people of the region and beyond.


 KISHTWAR, MAY 27: Press Information Bureau, Jammu under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting organised a Rural Media Workshop “Vartalap” in District Kishtwar on Friday on the theme of 11 years of governance. The workshop highlighted the achievements of the government during the period.

Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma; Director Press Information Bureau Jammu, Neha Jalali, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pawan Kotwal and other senior officers of the district administration were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of coordination with the media for highlighting the initiatives and other public welfare programs of the government. He added that the media is an important pillar of democracy which brings to the notice of the administration any shortcomings in the implementation of the government schemes and assessment of work done at the ground level.

Director Press Information Bureau Jammu touched upon misinformation, disinformation and propaganda and urged the media to counter these malpractices. She said that fake news is the main concern in today's world and the media has an important role to provide the public with truthful and credible information. The director spoke in detail about the fact checking mechanism run by PIB and requested the media persons to use the service to bust fake news.

Additional Deputy Commissioner in his address highlighted the role of PIB in disseminating information to the print and electronic media on government policies, programs and achievements. Additionally, he underscored the significance of media in generating awareness about various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) including public debates, discussions and ushering accountability in bureaucracy. He added that the government has introduced an electronic file system (e-office) for greater transparency and steps are being taken to take it to the block level.

Other senior officers of the district administration also spoke on the occasion. Chief Education Officer Kishtwar, Masood Hussain Qazi presented the salient features of the National Education Policy 2020. He said the department is focussed on inculcation of moral values in children and imparting vocational training to the youth in line with the roadmap laid down in the policy.

Chief Agriculture Officer Kishtwar, Koushal Chandel highlighted the initiatives taken for enhancing food security, water harvesting, organic farming and empowering marginal farmers. He said that drone technology is being harnessed and real time monitoring and geotagging of agricultural land is also undertaken for better management and monitoring of agriculture initiatives.

Horticulture Development Officer Kishtwar, Raja Aadil Sheikh; Field Officer, Khadi and Village Industries Board, Shah Mohammad; District Information Officer, Kuldeep Kumar also addressed the gathering. Media and Communication Officer PIB Jammu Muzafar Wani spoke on the role of media in responsible journalism with evolving technology. The proceedings of the program were conducted by Media and Communication Officer, PIB Jammu, Zakir Nazeer.

Over 50 local media persons participated in the workshop. Vartalap is a medium to set up bridges between government and media in order to reach out to the people at the grassroots. The media fraternity appreciated and thanked PIB for organising the workshop in the remote area of Jammu division. Responding to the demand of media persons for the Press Club in Kishtwar, the Deputy Commissioner assured that the matter will be taken in the best possible way.

During the media interaction, the journalists brought to the notice of the district administration difficulties being faced by them. The district administration offered suggestions for better coordination between media and the government for sharing information in a seamless manner.

 


KISHTWAR, MAY 23: Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan today inaugurated the first batch of the Electrician Training Course for the youth of project affected area.

Organised under the ongoing Skill Development Training Program, the initiative caters to members of households impacted by the hydroelectric projects including Rattle HEP, Pakal Dul HEP, Kiru HEP, Kwar, and others.

The inaugural session was held here at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), where a batch of 20 youth from project-affected families were enrolled for free two-year-long Electrician Training Course.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC urged all project-affected families to enroll in the Skill Development Training Program. He also informed that interested individuals can pursue skill development courses across India through support from the district administration.

The DC advised the trainees to engage sincerely and diligently with the course. He also highlighted the opportunities under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Scheme, pointing out that trained electricians are in demand under this scheme, and that the current batch may benefit by associating with the vendors of the said scheme in the district, as vendors have apprised about the shortage of trained electricians.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the trainees will be given exposure visits both within and outside the district for on-the-job training across India.

It is pertinent to mention that the Skill Development Program launched by the Power Projects Authorities of the District and District Administration provides comprehensive support including free meals, accommodation, stipends, field exposure visits, and toolkits upon successful completion of training.

DC Kishtwar reaffirmed the administration's commitment to ensuring sustainable livelihoods for affected families, highlighting it as a key priority for both the Government and project authorities.

It is pertinent to mention that 20 Candidates have already Started Plumbing Training Course in ITI under the Ongoing Skill Development Program.

The event was attended by Principal ITI Kishtwar, Anoop Sharma, representatives from power projects, and other concerned staff.

 


KISHTWAR, MAY 23: The Department of Youth Services and Sports, under the leadership of District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Jaffer Haider Sheikh, successfully conducted an Inter-School Zonal Level Cricket Tournament at Chowgan Ground, Kishtwar.

The event featured Under-14 and Under-17 Girls (Zone Kishtwar) and Under-14 Boys (Zone Nagseni), drawing vibrant participation from over 140 young athletes.

The tournament witnessed an impressive display of cricketing skills, discipline, and teamwork. Over 70 girls competed in the U/14 and U/17 categories, showcasing determination and sportsmanship that won the admiration of spectators and educators alike. Simultaneously, Zone Nagseni’s U/14 Boys competition featured intense matches with remarkable individual performances and close finishes.

Held at the Historic Chowgan Ground, the event underscored the district’s growing enthusiasm for school-level sports and provided a robust platform for nurturing young talent.


 KISHTWAR, MAY 06: The spirit of youth empowerment through sports has taken center stage as the Department of Youth Services & Sports (DYSS) launched the Inter-School Zonal Level Sports Competition in Drabshalla and Paddar Zones, here today.

The inaugural day in Zone Drabshalla witnessed a vibrant start with Zonal Physical Education Officer (ZPEO) presiding over the event as Chief Guest.

A total of 98 U/14 boys and girls showcased their talent in Chess, Carrom, Yoga, and Rope Skipping competitions.

The atmosphere was electric, marked by intense mental challenges and displays of physical agility that highlighted a well-rounded approach to youth development.

On the second day, the action shifted to Zone Paddar where 102 U/14 girls from different high and middle schools engaged in spirited contests of Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Volleyball, and Tug of War.

The grounds reverberated with energy, determination, and a strong sense of sisterhood, turning the event into a celebration of teamwork and athletic prowess.

 
KISHTWAR, APRIL 04: To strengthen institutional governance and streamline the delivery of public services, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rajesh Kumar Shavan today organized a Public Outreach Camp in Block Dachhan.

The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local populace, who engaged actively with the district administration.

The DC provided valuable insights and guidance on various government schemes and initiatives, including the JK Samadhan Portal, Mission Yuva Scheme, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Water Kuhls Development, Women Empowerment Programs, and other centrally sponsored schemes.

During the session, the DC issued a series of directives to the concerned departments for improving public services in the area.

The BDO Dachhan was Directed to ensure the functionality of all abandoned drains, achieving 100% man-days generation under MGNREGA, The Ex En PWD R&B was directed to submit road estimates to ensure no area is left unconnected.

The ARTO Kishtwar was directed to organize awareness camps for transporters and drivers in the region.

The Ex.En Jal Shakti Kishtwar was tasked with expediting JJM works, ensuring timely completion of reservoirs, establishing filter plants, and revamping old water supply schemes.

PMGSY authorities were directed to undertake road widening from Dangduro to Sounder, construct two new culverts, and carry out blacktopping works at an accelerated pace.

Concerned departments were instructed to prioritize the renovation of school buildings and the completion of languishing projects.

The DC also assured the public that issues raised during the camp would be addressed with due diligence. He emphasized the administration's commitment to responsive and inclusive governance.

Further, the DC shared that skill development courses are now open for registration and encouraged unemployed youth to enroll. He announced that an Employment Awareness Camp would soon be organized at Block Dachhan.

Additionally, directions were issued to ensure timely compensation for fruit-bearing and non-fruit trees, as well as land compensation.

The DC also presented baby care kits to the mothers of newborns under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.

The DC was accompanied by ADC Pawan Kotwal; SDM Marwah Dr. Mohamed Ashraf; ASP Ops  N. A. Khoja; CPO  Shahnawaz Bali; ARTO Tasleem Wani; AD Handicrafts Pardeep Shan; DFO Marwah, CAO , besides other District and Sub Division level Officers.

 


KISHTWAR, APRIL 30: In a significant step towards empowering the artisan and weaver community, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rajesh Kumar Shavan today distributed registration certificates to newly constituted Industrial Handicrafts Cooperative Societies formed under the Financial Support Scheme of the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu.

The event, held in the presence of Assistant Director Handicrafts, Pardeep Shan, marked the formal recognition of two cooperative societies—United Crewel and Vibrant Crewel Handicrafts INDUSCO Ltd.—registered with the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu.

The societies have been established under the Self-Reliant Cooperative Act, 1999, aimed at fostering micro-enterprises rooted in traditional crafts.

As per the provisions of the scheme, each registered society comprising 11 artisans/weavers will be entitled to financial assistance of Rs. 1.00 lakh, disbursed in two equal non-refundable installments. The scheme also includes dedicated marketing support to enhance the visibility and market reach of local crafts.

 The DC lauded the Handicrafts Department and emphasized the importance of expanding the scheme’s reach to include more artisans and weavers.

He instructed the Assistant Director to intensify outreach and registration efforts across the district to ensure that the benefits of government schemes are widely disseminated.

Also present at the event were Mr. Abid, Supervisor INDUSCO, along with officials and staff from the Handicrafts Department.


 KISHTWAR, APRIL 25: Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan, along with Senior Superintendent of Police, Naresh Singh today conducted an extensive visit to the Pakkal Dul Hydroelectric Project site to assess the on-ground security scenario.

During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the existing security arrangements and emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust security framework in and around the project site.

He directed the project authorities to immediately install additional CCTV cameras across all key areas of the project to enhance surveillance and strengthen safety of the project area.

In addition to the security assessment, the Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the ongoing works at the project site, stressing the need for timely execution and adherence to quality standards.

Senior officers and officials of Pakkal Dul HEP were also present during the visit.


 KISHTWAR, APRIL 24: Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti today arrived here to take stock of the law and order situation.

The Div Com and IGP convened a meeting with officers from the Police, Army and Civil Administration.

The meeting focused on a comprehensive review of the security arrangements and the overall law and order situation in the District. Necessary directions were issued to ensure safety and security in the district.

Later, the Div Com reviewed the ongoing arrangements for the annual Shri Machail Mata Yatra.

The Divisional Commissioner took a comprehensive review of the facilities being put in place for the smooth annual pilgrimage. He assessed provision of power, water supply, accommodation, transportation and other facilities.


 KISHTWAR, APRIL 11: In an initiative to uplift the artisan and weaver community, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Pawan Kotwal, along with AD Handicrafts Pardeep Shan, distributed registration certificates among newly formed Industrial Handicrafts and Handloom Cooperative Societies under the Financial Support Scheme of the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom.

Two societies were formally recognized during the event including Kuntwara Wheat Straw Handicrafts INDUSCO Ltd, Akarhang Kuntwara and Snow Valley Cutting Tailoring Handloom INDUSCO Ltd, Passerkot Chattroo.

These societies have been registered under the aegis of the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu, as part of the department's initiative to foster cooperative-based micro-enterprises under the Self-Reliant Act, 1999.

Under this scheme, 11 registered Artisans/Weavers can formulate a society and receive financial assistance of Rs. 1.00 lakh in two equal, non-refundable installments. In addition to financial aid, the scheme also offers marketing support to boost sales and visibility for local crafts.

The objective of this initiative is to promote self-reliance among artisans and weavers by enabling them to function collectively on a single platform and operate as small-scale enterprises.

The event was attended by Supervisor INDUSCO, Abid and other concerned staff.