K H Snippets: LG Sinha, CM Omar In A Week That Ends

Srinagar: Below is the weeklong timeline of key engagements of J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah witnessed within and outside J&K this week:-

1. LG Says “Preserving Cultural Heritage Key To Growth: LG This week Lietenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that preserving cultural heritage is essential for achieving rapid economic growth. Speaking at the inauguration of the annual Jhiri Mela in Marh Sub-Division, the LG emphasized the need to pass traditional arts, crafts, and customs to younger generations through active participation in cultural events and skill-based learning. “Community participation in governance should be ensured to promote accountability, improve service delivery, and foster inclusive and transparent governance,” he said. Paying obeisance to Baba Jitto and Bua Kouri, the LG described Baba Jitto as “a universal symbol of public welfare whose values of truth, non-violence, and brotherhood strengthen society.” He urged people to embrace selfless service and ensure that government schemes reach every farmer.
2. Govt Launches CM’s Scheme For Heritage Courses: This week, Jammu and Kashmir Government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the “Chief Minister’s Scheme for Introduction of Heritage Courses” to preserve and promote the Union Territory’s traditional crafts through structured vocational education. The Department of Skill Development has sanctioned the revival of seven heritage craft courses across 25 units with an intake of 500 students across 15 ITIs and polytechnics. Under the scheme, students will receive a monthly stipend of ₹1,000, while instructors will be paid between ₹12,000 and ₹15,000 per month. The initiative aims to safeguard traditional crafts and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to youth.
3. LG Says “Peace, People,Possibilities Define New J&K”: This week Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha delivered the keynote address at the two-day International Symposium on “Peace, People and Possibilities in Jammu & Kashmir” organized by Vishwagram, a non-profit working for education and compassion. The LG said Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing “a new vision of peace, prosperity, and equality under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.” “The peace visible today has given everyone the opportunity to live with dignity and mutual respect,” he said. The LG reaffirmed the government’s commitment to dismantle the terror ecosystem and maintain justice, peace, and equity across the Union Territory.
4. CM Says “Households Without Meters Ineligible For Free Power”: This week, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that households refusing to install electricity meters will not be eligible for the government’s scheme offering 200 units of free power. Speaking at a rally in Budgam ahead of the bypolls, Omar clarified, “We have promised 200 units of free electricity for every household, but this can only be provided where meters are installed.” He accused rival political parties of misleading the public for electoral gain, adding, “Those opposing metering will be the ones to miss out on this benefit.”
5. 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’ Celebrated In J&K: This week, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the 150th-year celebration of Vande Mataram, organized by the Department of Culture. Paying tribute to Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the LG said, “Our commitment and dedication to the motherland will take our nation to its destiny of a Viksit Bharat.” He urged the younger generation to remember their civilizational heritage and contribute to national progress. The celebrations included mass singing of the full version of Vande Mataram by citizens across all sections of society.
6. Omar Abdullah Promises University, Cricket Academy In Budgam: This week, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah campaigned in support of National Conference candidate Aga Syed Mahmood Mosavi for the Budgam Assembly bypoll, announcing several development projects for the district. “I hope Aga Mahmood wins, so I can open another university here in Budgam,” Omar said, recalling how he established a university in Ganderbal during his earlier tenure. He also revealed plans to collaborate with the BCCI to establish cricket grounds and a professional academy in Budgam. “There is not a single ground in J&K that can host international matches; we aim to change that,” the Chief Minister added.