K H Snippets: J&K This Week

Srinagar: Below is the weeklong timeline of key public events and engagements of top public dignitaries held within and outside Jammu & Kashmir this week:-
1. PM Modi Declares Victory For Democracy, Constitution In J&K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have decisively rejected separatism and militancy, signaling a victory for the Constitution and democracy of India. Speaking at the National Unity Day parade in Kevadia, Gujarat, Modi stated, “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the age-old agenda of separatism and militancy. They have made the Constitution of India and the democracy of India victorious. They have put an end to the propaganda that has persisted for 70 years with their votes. Today, on National Unity Day, I salute the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
2. LG Sinha’s Clarion Call On J&K’s UT Status: As Jammu and Kashmir marked the fifth anniversary of its Union Territory status, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha urged acceptance of the region’s current reality. Addressing a high level UT Foundation Day conclave at SKICC Srinagar Sinha called on opponents of UT status to acknowledge it as the prevailing constitutional order. He stated, “Jammu and Kashmir is now a Union Territory, and this reality must be accepted by all.” Sinha highlighted the roadmap set forth by Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. “We are witnessing the promised transformation in J&K with the delimitation process, followed by Assembly elections, and ultimately the restoration of statehood,” he noted, assuring the audience that if J&K regains statehood in the future, it will be celebrated with equal enthusiasm.
3. CM Omar Abdullah’s Engagement With Civil Society: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a meeting with civil society representatives at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC) to discuss pressing issues. He reiterated his commitment to dignity, democratic values, and sustainable development for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah listened attentively to concerns and suggestions presented by the attendees, emphasizing his government’s dedication to transparency and public welfare. He pledged to prioritize the restoration of dignity for the people, stating, “We should have the first right to our lands, our employment, and our resources. Only then can we truly say that this country respects our honor and dignity.”
4. High-Level Security Review Meeting In Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha convened a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar, attended by top officials from the J&K Police and civil administration. This meeting was prompted by recent militancy related incidents that resulted in civilian and security personnel casualties, necessitating an assessment of the security arrangements in the region. During the meeting, LG Sinha directed officials to implement pre-emptive measures against potential militant threats, emphasizing the need to safeguard peace and development. “We must take strong actions against militants and those providing them support or safe havens. Our aim is to ensure socio-economic development and foster a sense of security among the people,” he stated.
5. Academic Session Reverts To November-December Schedule: In a move to address long-standing demands from students and parents, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced a decision to revert the academic session for grades up to 9th back to the November-December timeframe. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed gratitude to Minister of Education Sakeena Itoo for presenting this proposal to the cabinet, which has now been approved. Abdullah indicated that while the examination schedules for grades 10, 11, and 12 will remain unchanged for the current year due to ongoing board examination preparations, future revisions will be implemented. “I hope this decision will provide relief to students and their families in the Kashmir Valley and the winter zone of Jammu,” he stated.
6. JKTPO Launches Procurement Preference Policy: In an initiative to strengthen local businesses, the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) has drafted the “J&K Procurement Preference Policy 2024,” which is currently under review by the Industries and Commerce Department. This draft policy, available for public input until October 31, aims to provide preferential access to government procurement for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Union Territory.
7. KPDCL To Modernize Billing Processes: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (KPDCL) is set to revolutionize its consumer billing processes by transitioning to a cloud-based platform. This modernization aims to enhance service reliability for approximately 12.1 lakh consumers in the region. KPDCL plans to migrate its entire customer base to the Oracle Utilities platform by the end of the year, under the centrally sponsored Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), with over 80% of the work reportedly completed. To facilitate this transition, KPDCL will launch “Bill Sahuliyat Plus,” a new mobile application for both Android and iOS users, currently in the testing phase. This app will allow customers to access real-time smart meter data and manage billing tasks conveniently, aiming to create parity between iOS and Android users.
8. Major Drug Seizure In Baramulla: In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have seized 2,695 grams of heroin valued at ₹20 crore and apprehended three key individuals linked to a heroin smuggling network in Baramulla. A senior police officer confirmed that the operation dismantled a major drug trafficking ring in the region.