K H Snippets: J&K This Week

Srinagar: Below is the weeklong timeline of major public events and engagement of top public functionaries reported this week from within and outside Jammu & Kashmir:-
1. Armed Forces Flag Day Observed In J&K: The Armed Forces Flag Day was observed in Jammu & Kashmir, with Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha marking the occasion by pinning the Armed Forces flag at Raj Bhawan. Expressing his gratitude, the Lieutenant Governor contributed to the “Armed Forces Flag Day Fund,” honoring the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces. He highlighted the critical role the Army plays in maintaining peace and security in J&K, particularly in combating militancy and ensuring the safety of border and remote areas.
2. PM Modi Salutes Achievements Of Persons with Disabilities On International Day: On the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering Divyangjan (persons with disabilities). Highlighting their remarkable achievements, he emphasized that respect for Divyangjan is a core value in India’s cultural ethos. This year’s observance is significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution, underscoring the nation’s ongoing efforts toward equality and inclusion.
3. Chief Secretary Visits Jagti Migrant Camp, Reviews Facilities: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo visited the Jagti Migrant Camp in Jammu to assess the available amenities and listen to the concerns of the camp’s residents. Accompanied by senior officials, he inspected the Sub-District Hospital and Higher Secondary School at the camp, directing the hospital to begin general anesthesia surgeries immediately. He also emphasized upgrading public services to benefit the local residents and reduce referrals.
4. BJP Welcomes Cabinet Decision On New Kendriya Vidyalayas: BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh welcomed the central Cabinet’s decision to open 85 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) across India, calling it a landmark step in strengthening the nation’s education system. He highlighted that the new KVs would benefit around 82,560 students and create over 5,300 direct jobs. This move is expected to improve access to quality education for children of central government and defense personnel, aligning with the National Education Policy.
5. Russian President Lauds PM Modi’s Economic Initiatives At Russia Calling Forum: At the 15th VTB Russia Calling Investment Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “India-First” policy and the transformative “Make in India” initiative. He noted that India’s economic growth and global positioning have been significantly boosted by these initiatives. Putin expressed Russia’s interest in establishing manufacturing operations in India, citing the country’s favorable investment climate.
6. J&K Records 16,282 Million Units Of Renewable Energy in 2023-24: Jammu & Kashmir generated a total of 16,282 million units of renewable energy in the financial year 2023-24, primarily from small and large hydro projects. The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, shared this data in Lok Sabha, highlighting the significant contribution of J&K’s hydroelectric capacity to India’s renewable energy targets. The region’s efforts align with India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
7. J&K Health Scheme Reaches Rs 100 Crore Milestone In Claims Disbursement: The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) SEHAT scheme in Jammu & Kashmir has disbursed claims worth Rs 100 crore to empaneled hospitals since October. With over 60,000 claims processed, the milestone reflects the efficiency of the State Health Agency (SHA) and the growing public trust in the scheme. Despite a temporary disruption in September, the scheme continues to provide essential medical services to the residents of J&K.
8 Divisional Commissioner Reviews River Jhelum Inland Water Transport Project: To promote tourism and alleviate traffic congestion, Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, chaired a meeting on Friday to review the implementation of the River Navigation Developmental Project on the Jhelum River. The project aims to develop Inland Water Transport to boost tourism and reduce pressure on road traffic.
10: KPDCL Raises Final Call For Interest Waiver Under Amnesty Scheme: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) raised final call to its domestic consumers urging them to come forward and claim waiver on late payment surcharge under the Government’s Power Amnesty Scheme, which shall cease to exist on 01.04.2025. Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, Er. Aaquib Waheed Deva, said that the Power Amnesty Scheme will be available for domestic consumers only till March 31, 2025 and beyond that there will be no further extension. “Consumers can either pay their principal amount due to Kashmir Discom in full or in equal instalments in the remaining 04 months to claim the waiver on late payment surcharge to settle their claims,” she added.