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Inspects under-construction helipad at Hutt village near Katra

REASI, NOVEMBER 12: Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Chairman of Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB), Ramesh Kumar on Wednesday conducted an extensive review of the ongoing development works being executed by the Shiv Khori Shrine Board in  Ransoo

 He also visited Katra and conducted site inspection of development projects there.

Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nidhi Malik, CEO Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Sachin Kumar, SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, besides senior officers from BRO, PWD, Tourism, Health attended the meeting.

Commencing the tour from Katra, the Divisional Commissioner inspected the under-construction helipad at Hutt village near Katra. He directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to ensure the completion of the helipad by December 2025, emphasizing that the approach road and retaining wall should also be completed at the earliest.

The concerned official of BRO was instructed to submit a weekly progress report to the Deputy Commissioner Reasi.

The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed progress of other ongoing works including the frisking point, ticket counter building and car parking facility.

Later, the Divisional Commissioner chaired a review meeting at the TRC Building, Ransoo, to assess the progress of development works undertaken by the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board.

The meeting featured detailed discussions on key projects such as blacktopping of the Kanda–Ransoo road, repair and renovation of Gauri Bhawan, construction of the toilet complex at the bus stand and improvement works along the Yatra track including installation of oversheds and a public address system.

The Divisional Commissioner laid special emphasis on the upgradation of road infrastructure, directing the PWD to expedite the blacktopping work for smooth access to the shrine. The Tourism Department was instructed to ensure that pending works are executed in a time-bound and fast-track manner.

Regarding healthcare facilities for the devotees, the Divisional Commissioner directed the Health Department to ensure the availability of one doctor at Ransoo and paramedic staff at the Bhawan, with two ambulances deployed—one each at Ransoo and on the track, fully equipped with drivers and necessary facilities.

The Divisional Commissioner also discussed new proposals aimed at enhancing pilgrim amenities and the overall shrine infrastructure. He directed the Executive Officer, SSKSB, to review the progress of works monthly and submit reports to his office, while the Tehsildar shall inspect the works one every 15 days to monitor on-ground progress.

During his visit to the Yatra track, the Divisional Commissioner inspected various points and instructed for additional benches near the viewpoint and bathing ghat, along with the installation of more garbage bins to maintain cleanliness along the route.

The Divisional Commissioner reiterated the commitment of the administration to develop Shri Shiv Khori Shrine as a major spiritual and tourist destination, ensuring improved facilities and a better pilgrimage experience for devotees.

The Fest is being organised by Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) and sponsored by Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Union Ministry of Textiles, under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP).

JKTPO is holding this event after the successful launch of two major events, Gandhi Shilp Bazar at Kashmir Haat, Srinagar, and GI Fair Buyer-Seller Meet at Budgam.

After inaugurating the Fest, the Commissioner Secretary interacted with both buyers and artisans, appreciating their efforts and expressing strong support for the initiative. He emphasized that the festival holds immense significance in strengthening the livelihoods of local artisans, enhancing their visibility, and expanding their market linkages at the national level. He also commended JKTPO’s sustained efforts in promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s rich craft heritage through such dedicated platforms.

Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Nidhi Malik was also present on the occasion. She appreciated the efforts of JKTPO for the successful launch of this commendable initiative that celebrates the rich cultural legacy and the pride of our region, the exquisite Pashmina.

Managing Director, JKTPO, Sudarshan Kumar, in his welcome address gave brief outline about the three days Pashmina Fest-2025.

Pertinently, the three days Fest, organized by JKTPO, is part of the ongoing efforts to support and revitalize Jammu and Kashmir’s rich handicraft heritage. It aims to showcase the finest Geographical Indication (GI)-certified Pashmina products from the region and highlight the exceptional skills of artisans and craft enterprises, celebrating the timeless legacy of Pashmina craftsmanship.

With this fest, JKTPO seeks to facilitate structured B2B interactions and provide local artisans with direct market access. Featuring Basohli Pashmina from Kathua district and Pashmina from Srinagar, both recognised as authentic GI-certified products, the fest highlights their cultural significance, heritage value, and artisanal excellence.

This much-anticipated event is expected to give a substantial boost to the region’s textile and handicrafts sector, offering a dynamic platform for artisans, entrepreneurs, and exporters to connect with esteemed national buyers.

This three-day festival is set to highlight the intricate artistry, cultural heritage, and traditional craftsmanship associated with authentic GI-tagged Pashmina. The event not only provides artisans an opportunity to showcase their exquisite creations but also serves as a vital bridge connecting them with reputed buyers, exporters, and design houses from across India.

The festival aims to promote authentic GI-tagged Pashmina and foster B2B linkages between over 40+ reputed national buyers from across India — including New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal — and 50 Pashmina artisan groups from Jammu and Kashmir. It also seeks to position Katra as an emerging hub for craft and cultural tourism.

Through Pashmina Fest 2025, the Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) reaffirms its commitment to preserving, promoting, and modernising the region’s craft heritage. By bringing together artisans, designers, buyers, and industry leaders, the event aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that the traditional techniques and cultural significance of Pashmina weaving continue to flourish in the contemporary marketplace.

The meeting focused on reviewing key takeaways from the workshop and charting out a comprehensive plan for implementing the initiative at block and 44 identified tribal villages.

During the deliberations, it was decided that Master Trainers will be identified in every block from key departments including Education, Medical, Forest, Jal Shakti, and Rural Development Department (RDD). These trainers will be imparted structured training as per the scheduled modules, enabling them to further disseminate knowledge and practices at the grassroots.

Furthermore, the Deputy Commissioner directed that Village Level Committees be constituted in a time-bound manner. These committees, working in close coordination with the Master Trainers, will prepare and implement village-specific action plans with a special focus on the welfare of tribal communities and ensuring that the benefits of the initiative reach the last mile.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of inclusive and participatory development. She added that The Adi Karamyogi Abhiyan is a unique opportunity to strengthen grassroots governance and empower our tribal communities. With the active involvement of all stakeholders, we can ensure that the vision of holistic welfare and sustainable development is realized in every village of Reasi.

The session concluded with directions to all concerned departments to work in close synergy and submit a timeline-based roadmap for effective roll-out of the programme at both block and village levels.

Students, youth, prominent citizens and officials participated, carrying the Tricolour across the Chenab Bridge and creating an atmosphere of patriotism against its scenic backdrop.

DC Reasi Nidhi Malik said the Chenab Bridge, a symbol of engineering achievement and national pride, reflects the spirit of unity. She said the rally at this historic site demonstrates the commitment of the people of Reasi to national ideals and urged residents to ensure every home hoists the Tricolour under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.

The event concluded with patriotic slogans echoing through the Chenab valley. SDM Tariq Aziz, the concerned ZEO and officials from the administration and police were present.

The meeting focused on the provisions in place for facilitating institutional deliveries and the management of potential high-risk pregnancies in the district.

The DDC emphasized the urgent need to eliminate home deliveries in the district and directed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to ensure that all pregnant women are motivated and counseled for institutional deliveries. She   asked for bringing down high-risk pregnancies to minimum and making special medical care arrangements for such cases.

The CMO was asked to submit detailed reports on the availability of ambulances at sub-centers and to identify locations where additional support is required. She also sought a list of priority works needed at these healthcare facilities to improve service delivery.

The DDC asked for mobilizing the ASHA workers to work  more proactively for tracking the pregnant women to ensure timely and safe institutional deliveries. She further directed that any cases of home delivery be documented with valid reasons and reviewed monthly. She added that strict action would be taken against individuals who misguide pregnant women and deter them from seeking institutional care.

The DDC also directed that any staff shortage at Primary Health Centers (PHCs) be addressed immediately through internal deputation. “All challenges must be resolved promptly, and healthcare delivery must be carried out with 100% commitment,” she asserted.

The meeting was attended by CMO Dr. Ashraf Kohli, Deputy CMO Dr. Mohd Yousaf, BMOs, ZMOs, DPMU members, and other health officials.

As many as 300 talented student-athletes from different zones of District Reasi—including Chassana, Mahore, Arnas, Reasi, and Pouni—participated in events such as Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Yoga, Chess and Table Tennis.

Chief Education Officer Reasi, Deepak Gupta graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He was welcomed by District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Reasi Tarsem Singh.

Tarsem Singh highlighted that the participating girls, selected from different zones, represent the district's growing talent and will be competing with Great Spirit and sportsmanship.

CEO commended the efforts of DYSS Reasi in promoting sports among young girls. He emphasized the role of sports in holistic development and encouraged students to pursue excellence both in academics and athletics. He also appreciated the discipline, enthusiasm, and dedication shown by the participants.

The tournament served as a platform to foster healthy competition, build confidence, and strengthen camaraderie among the youth of Reasi district.

The matches were officiated by the expert deputed by the DYSSO Office Reasi.

She reviewed the cleanliness status of the pond at Panchayat Agarballian and assessed the preparedness of the administration in maintenance of water resources ahead of the monsoon season.

The week-long campaign, started from May 1, 2025, focuses on the rejuvenation, cleaning and maintenance of water recharge structures, traditional water bodies, and storage tanks across all 12 blocks of Reasi.

A detailed weekly roster with 1003 blockwise activities has been prepared to ensure the systematic execution of planned activities, which include the cleaning and maintenance of 110 water harvesting tanks, 194 Water Ponds, 508 water bowlies, and 191 other water-related structures. The work is being carried out under the supervision of the respective Block Development Officers (BDOs).

The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of this initiative in promoting sustainable water conservation. She noted that the timely cleaning and restoration of these structures would help maximize rainwater storage during the upcoming monsoon. Additionally, the campaign provides an opportunity to identify water bodies requiring repair or long-term maintenance, which can be incorporated into future development plans.

The DC encouraged workers and the public to  continue coordination and community participation to ensure the success of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan across the district. She reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting water resources and strengthening Reasi’s water infrastructure through proactive, ground-level interventions.

The condolence meeting, held at the DC Office Complex, was attended by officers and officials of the administration who stood in solidarity to honor the lives lost in the tragic incident.

The Deputy Commissioner expressed profound grief over the loss of innocent lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. She also wished a swift and full recovery to those injured in the attack.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional District Development Commissioner Sukhdev Singh Samyal emphasized the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and promoting self-employment opportunities among youth at the grassroots level. He stressed its basic objective of guiding potential entrepreneurs and urged the YUVA DOOTs to approach the task with dedication.

The training aimed to equip Yuva DOOTs with the necessary skills and knowledge to connect with and support potential entrepreneurs in their respective Panchayats. They were sensitized about their role and responsibilities and how they can effectively support and guide aspiring entrepreneurs in the district.

Assistant Director DE&CC Annie Vaid also urged the Yuva DOOTs to attend the training sincerely and implement the knowledge in the field with dedication. She stressed that good coordination among banks, EDI, Employment, and Industries departments is crucial for the successful execution of the mission.

The training included discussion on different components of the Mission YUVA right from Nano Entrepreneurship to MSMEs and startups.

The insights from the baseline survey were thoroughly discussed so as to make the Yuva Doots aware about the peculiarities of the district.

Yuva Doots were urged to conduct IEC activities and inform local youth in their respective Panchayats about the Mission YUVA app. Hands on training on the app was also imparted to them during the sessions.

During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner engaged directly with the affected residents to understand their grievances and assure them of the administration’s commitment to environmental safety. She also conducted a detailed inspection of the ongoing bio-mining project, which is focused on processing legacy waste at the site.

Emphasizing the importance of adhering to the timelines set   in the project’s contractual framework, the Deputy Commissioner sought detailed information about each phase of the bio-mining process. She stressed the need for efficiency, transparency, and accountability throughout the operation.

The Deputy Commissioner discussed comprehensive waste management strategies with officials and outlined the importance of adhering to scheduled implementation timelines. She reaffirmed that scientific waste management and timely disposal are among the district administration’s highest priorities.

The district administration remains committed to developing a sustainable, long-term waste management framework that prioritizes public health, environmental protection, and community well-being. EO MC Katra and other municipality officials accompanied the Deputy Commissioner.

Recognizing the immense potential of these architectural marvels, the Chief Secretary called for their immediate promotion as key tourist destinations. He emphasized that both sites, due to their engineering brilliance and scenic location, deserve to be integrated into the broader tourism circuit of the region.

Highlighting the proximity of these sites to the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, the Chief Secretary advised that the pilgrims visiting the cave shrine should be encouraged to also visit AnjiKhad and the Chenab Rail Bridge.

This, he observed, would not only diversify the tourism offerings of the region but also serve as a catalyst for local economic development, generating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for the local youth.

In his interaction with the district administration, the Chief Secretary directed the officials to explore development of supporting infrastructure and visitor amenities around both the locations. This included provision for rest areas, guided tours, food stalls and other facilities aimed at enhancing the overall experience for the tourists and pilgrims alike. He also stressed the need for installing informative signage and display boards at the sites. These boards, he said, should highlight the unique technological and structural features of these bridges. By doing so, visitors would not only gain insights into the engineering prowess behind these projects but would also develop a sense of national pride and appreciation for the infrastructural advancements being made across the country, he added.

The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; DC, Reasi; SSP, Reasi; senior officers from the Northern Railways and other local officers from civil administration and police department.

The aim of the camp was to assess and register the targeted Divyangs with 40% or more benchmark disability and Senior Citizens with age of 60 years and above under ADIP and RVY schemes respectively. Such beneficiaries in turn shall be provided free of cost equipment and appliances which includes hearing aids, wheelchairs, tricycles, artificial limbs, walking sticks, motorised tricycles etc. by ALIMCO.

Speaking about the camp, District Social Welfare Officer,   Sachin Sharma addressed that this scheme is for disabled citizens of BPL category. He was told that by taking Aadhaar card, ration card, UDID Card and photographs from the divyangjans, the eligible beneficiaries are being registered on the concerned portal. He further informed that such camps shall be continued till 11th April across various locations of district Reasi which were started on 05th April with an aim to register maximum number of eligible citizens for such government schemes to make an inclusive society.

It should be noted that 112 disabled and senior citizens were registered in this assessment camp.

In the meeting, a detailed discussion was held on several arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival, which draws thousands of devotees every year.

ADC Rakesh Kumar directed the concerned authorities to deploy adequate police personnel and implement appropriate security checks to ensure the safety and security of all visitors during the Festival.

He stressed the need for a reliable and uninterrupted supply of water and electricity during the festival days and directed the concerned departments to take adequate measures. He sought special attention on the maintenance of roads, particularly the road from Simbal Choa leading to the shrine and directed for necessary repairs well before the festival. He also instructed the traffic police to make detailed traffic arrangements including provision of parking space to ensure smooth and safe movement of vehicles.

The Municipal authorities of Reasi and Katra were asked to make necessary sanitation arrangements in and around the shrine and keep the provision of mobile toilets at the strategic points for convenience of the devotees.

The Health Department was asked to ensure the availability of medical staff, first aid kits, and ambulances at the festival site. The meeting decided to station a medical team at the shrine to deal with any medical emergencies promptly.

ADC Rakesh Kumar also called for the readiness of the Fire and Emergency Services Department to handle any potential fire hazards or emergencies that may arise during the festival. He instructed the department to keep standby necessary equipment and personnel to respond swiftly to any crisis. Tourism department was directed to take measures for wide publicity of the Mela through different means.

Chief Medical officer, XENs Jal Shakti and JPDCL, DSP (HQ), DIO(Info), EO MC Reasi, AD Tourism Katra and other concerned were present in the meeting.

Suninderjeet Kour (CDPO Reasi), Dr. Lekha Bhasin (CDPO Pouni), and Shahid Mughal (CDPO Arnas and Mahore) jointly inaugurated the campaign in the presence of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), and Supervisors. The event marked the beginning of a fortnight-long campaign aimed at raising awareness about nutrition, health, and well-being among women, children, and adolescent girls.

As part of the launch, the participants also attended the live inaugural webcast of Poshan Pakhwada 2025, organized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (W&CD), Government of India. The webcast emphasized the critical role of local-level interventions in addressing malnutrition and promoting healthy dietary practices.

The officials encouraged all stakeholders to actively engage with the community throughout the Pakhwada through the outreach and IEC (Information, Education, Communication) activities. The campaign will include home visits, growth monitoring drives, Poshan rallies, recipe demonstrations, and community-based events to reinforce the importance of balanced nutrition and maternal-child health.

Poshan Pakhwada 2025 reflects the government’s continued commitment to the objectives of the POSHAN Abhiyaan — ensuring holistic nourishment for every child and woman in the country.

REASI, MARCH 08: Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma  today initiated the 108-kilometer Parikrama Yatra of Trikuta Parbat. District Development Council Chairman Saraf Singh Nag, MLA Reasi Kuldeep Raj Dubey, MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Baldev Raj Sharma were also present  at the Parikrama Yatra which commenced with a Shubharambh Puja at Bhumika Mandir Katra at 7:30 am.

The spiritual journey aims at connecting the religious and historical sites around the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and Trikuta Parbat. The event witnessed participation from the prominent leaders, DDC members, key officials including ADDC Reasi Sukhdev Samyal, SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, Tehsildar Reasi, AD Tourism , XENs and others.

The Parikrama Yatra, which follows a meticulously planned route covering key religious sites, began from Bhumika Mandir and proceeded to Reasi to visit revered Kalika ji Mandir at 9:00 AM. The procession then continued through Chiralakote, Tote, Devigarh, Sukhalgati, and Panthal before culminating back at Bhumika Mandir, completing the Parikrama of Trikuta Parbat at 8:00 PM.

During the launch, the MP emphasized the spiritual significance of the Yatra, stating, "We are starting this Yatra at the foot of Maa Vaishno Devi at Bhumika Mandir with the aim of respecting the religious and spiritual sentiments of the people connected to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and Trikuta Parbat. This Yatra will also help connect many unhighlighted religious and historical places around the shrine."

Sharma further highlighted that the initiative aims to promote holistic regional development, particularly in backward villages along the route. He expressed hope that the Parikrama Yatra would lead to the development of basic amenities in these areas, improving the overall infrastructure, boosting tourism, and contributing to the economic growth and employment opportunities for the youth. The MP stressed that this endeavor would significantly enhance the tourism potential of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, benefiting the local population.

MP Jugal Kishore also emphasised that concerned departments should put in their utmost efforts to ensure the success of this Yatra, citing the example of the Goverdhan Yatra in Vrindavan as a model for such spiritual journeys.

The Parikrama Yatra, with its deep cultural and spiritual significance, has attracted a large number of devotees and will continue to highlight the sacred legacy of Trikuta Parbat and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

The programme was organised under the supervision of District Social Welfare Officer Sachin Sharma.

The College students were motivated to adopt a healthy lifestyle and stay away from drug abuse. They were encouraged to engage themselves in sports activities.

Resource persons from the college highlighted the importance of prevention and early intervention, stressing the need for students to be aware of the risks associated with substance abuse.

Students were elaborated on the role of educational Institutions, families, peer groups and communities in combating addiction and supporting individuals who may be struggling with it.

Assistant Professor Dr. Usha Sharma addressed the students and shared valuable insights on the dangers of substance abuse.

The students also participated in Symposium and poetry competition and disseminated the information on illegal use of drugs. The posters were distributed among students and pamphlets of NMBA were pasted in and around college premises. The pledge on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was also taken. A rally was also organised from GDC Katra to Panchayat Dadura to educate the public to make society drug free.

The event was part of the ongoing efforts by the Social Welfare Department to create a drug free society and to educate the younger generation about the benefits of living free from drug addiction.