The installment was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who transferred the financial assistance directly into the bank accounts of the eligible farmers from across the country through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.

In Jammu and Kashmir, an amount of approximately ₹4,209.82 crore has been successfully disbursed among 9.17 lakh beneficiaries under the PM-KISAN scheme since its inception, providing vital financial assistance to the farming community.

The Union Territory-level function organised at SKUAST-Kashmir witnessed the participation of Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganie, senior scientists, officers of the Agriculture Production Department, progressive farmers, scholars and other stakeholders.

Speaking on the occasion, Javid Ahmad Dar said that PM-KISAN has emerged as a transformative initiative aimed at providing assured financial support to the farmers and strengthening the rural economy. He said that the timely release of installments enables farmers to meet agricultural input costs, adopt improved farming practices and undertake allied agricultural activities more effectively.

Highlighting the growing significance of agriculture in the face of climate change and emerging environmental challenges, the Minister emphasized that the sector remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and a key source of livelihood for a large section of the population. He stressed the need to promote climate-resilient agriculture, efficient water management, crop diversification and the adoption of modern technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.

The Minister observed that agriculture Saturday is not only a means of livelihood but also a promising avenue for innovation, entrepreneurship and employment generation. He expressed satisfaction that educated youth, including graduates, postgraduates and Ph.D. scholars in agricultural sciences, are increasingly taking keen interest in agriculture and allied sectors and contributing through research, innovation and field-level interventions for the welfare of the farming community.

He stated that the Jammu and Kashmir Government is undertaking several farmer-centric initiatives aimed at strengthening the extension services, improving access to scientific knowledge and ensuring that farmers are equipped with the latest information and technologies to address emerging challenges.

The Minister reiterated that under the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi Yojana, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each. The amount is being directly credited to their bank accounts through the DBT system, ensuring transparency, accountability and efficiency in service delivery.

On the occasion, two publications titled “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” and “Farmer’s Scheme Guide” were also released. These publications are aimed at creating greater awareness among the farmers regarding sustainable agricultural practices, government welfare schemes and various support mechanisms available for enhancing farm productivity and income.

The EBU was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner, Poonch, Ashok Kumar Sharma in the presence of SDM Imran Rashid Kataria, Tehsildar Mankote Maroof Qadri, J&K Bank Zonal Head (Rajouri) Rajeev Kumar Digra, Cluster Head (Poonch) Ashutosh Gupta and other senior officers of the Bank. With the addition of this facility, the total number of EBUs in Rajouri Zone, comprising the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch, has reached nine.

Speaking on the occasion, DC Poonch appreciated the Bank for establishing the EBU at Mankote and highlighted its significance in enabling seamless banking services for the local population. He noted that the facility would facilitate cash deposits, account opening, enrolment under various social security schemes including PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY and PMJDY, while also strengthening the adoption of digital banking services in the area.

Addressing the gathering, Zonal Head Rajeev Kumar Digra expressed gratitude to the district administration, particularly the Deputy Commissioner, for their support and presence on the occasion. He said, “In line with our commitment to serving our growing customer base with greater efficiency and convenience, the new EBU will strengthen our service delivery framework, expand our outreach and help us bring banking services closer to every household in the region.”

The dignitaries and local residents present on the occasion appreciated the Bank’s continued efforts towards improving banking accessibility and extending modern financial services to the people of the area, while assuring their support for such initiatives aimed at public convenience and socio-economic empowerment.

Srinagar : Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, inaugurated the newly launched Mothercare, adidas Kids and ASICS stores at The Edition Mall,Majeed Bagh, Sanat Nagar Srinagaron Saturday, marking a major boost to Srinagar’s expanding retail sector and consumer market.

Speaking on the occasion, Wani said the opening of internationally renowned brands in Srinagar reflects the region’s growing economic confidence and improving business environment. He said such investments are a positive indicator of commercial progress and demonstrate increasing trust among leading national and global companies in Kashmir’s market potential.

He noted that the arrival of premium retail brands would not only expand shopping choices for consumers but also generate employment and stimulate economic activity in the Valley. Wani reiterated that the government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah remains committed to fostering investment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth across Jammu and Kashmir.

The newly launched stores are expected to cater to a wide customer base by offering quality products in children’s apparel, sportswear, footwear, and lifestyle essentials. Their arrival is being seen as a significant step towards transforming Srinagar into a modern retail and lifestyle hub.

Business leaders, entrepreneurs, shoppers, and invited guests attended the inauguration ceremony and welcomed the launch, expressing hope that more global brands would enter Kashmir’s market in the coming years.

The programme was specifically conducted for the fishermen community of Kulhama, who remain engaged in their livelihood activities during the daytime and are generally unavailable to participate in awareness programmes.

During the camp, participants were sensitized about various financial inclusion initiatives, social security schemes, banking services and government welfare programmes aimed at improving financial security and economic well-being. Awareness was also generated regarding the growing threat of cyber frauds and the precautionary measures required to safeguard against online financial sca

The Deputy Commissioner, who attended the programme virtually, appreciated the efforts of Lead Bank Bandipora, Centre for Financial Literacy and participating NGOs for organizing the awareness camp at a time convenient for the fishermen community. She urged the fishermen to avail the benefits of various social security and financial inclusion schemes and emphasized the importance of financial literacy in improving their economic well-being and securing their future.

Lead District Manager (LDM) Bandipora, Liaqat Maqbool, highlighted the importance of financial literacy and urged participants to avail the benefits of various banking and social security schemes. Representatives from NGOs, RSETI and other stakeholders also participated in the programme and interacted with the fishermen community.

A large number of fishermen attended the awareness camp and appreciated the initiative for bringing important financial information and services directly to their doorstep during a convenient time.

The programme concluded with an interactive session during which participants raised queries related to banking services, Government schemes and financial assistance programmes, which were addressed by the resource persons.

The Director reviewed progress under the various schemes and directed field officers to ensure timely implementation of developmental projects, optimum utilisation of allocated funds and effective execution of the horticulture programme through close coordination to achieve targets within the stipulated timeframe.

Gul Syed also called for closer monitoring of ongoing works, improved service delivery to farmers and faster progress on orchard development, nursery production, infrastructure creation and farmer welfare initiatives and reviewed district-wise performance besides seeking updates on implementation challenges.

The Director instructed all officers to submit regular progress reports and ensure transparency, accountability and quality in execution of the departmental programme and reiterated the department’s commitment to strengthening the horticulture sector and enhancing the income of fruit growers across Jammu Division.

Among those present were Joint Director Horticulture Salil Gupta, Deputy Director Planning Divya Mahajan, all Chief Horticulture Officers of Jammu Division, Chief Canning Instructor Jammu, Accounts Officer Rajesh Kumar, In-charge Mega Fruit Plant Nursery Chakroi, Nursery Registration Officer Jammu Satish Kumar, Horticulture Information & Publicity Officer Randhir Singh Parihar, Assistant Director Sunil Gupta, DLSMS’s, DLSMS-PP, Farm Manager ACHD Ramban, Technical Section Officers, Horticulture Development Officer Information Dr Vijay Kumar and other officers concerned.

Additional Deputy Commissioner, Vidhu Shekhar presided over the event and briefed the attendees about their respective roles and responsibilities, besides highlighting the overall plans of the district administration.

The training was imparted by the District Informatics Officer (Director, IT), National Informatics Centre (NIC), Jammu, Sanjeev Kapoor, who familiarised the operators with the on-spot registration process and the eKYC procedures to be followed during the Yatra.

Pertinently, the on-spot registration facility for Yatris shall be made available at Mahajan Hall, Shalamar, and the Tawi Riverfront, Jammu. For Sadhus, the designated centres are Gita Bhawan, Parade, and  Ram Mandir, Purani Mandi, Jammu.

Conversion of non-eKYC to eKYC registrations will be done at Railway Station Jammu and Yatri Niwas Bhagwati Nagar Jammu.

Pilgrims undertaking the Yatra via both routes: Pahalgam as well as Baltal, can avail of the registration facility at these designated centres. Upon successful on-spot registration, RFID cards shall be issued to the pilgrims, which are mandatory for undertaking the Yatra.

It is pertinent to mention that online registration for the Yatra has already commenced as of April 15, 2026. For on-spot registration, token distribution will start on June 30, and subsequently, for on-spot registration and conversion of non-eKYC to eKYC registrations will begin from July 1 onwards.

The Deputy Chief Minister made these remarks while chairing a comprehensive review meeting regarding functioning of KVIB at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar.

During the meeting, he reviewed the progress achieved under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Employment Generation Programme (JKREGP) besides assessing establishment of units under both schemes during the current financial year.

Emphasizing the need for wider outreach, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the Board to launch an extensive awareness campaign through all available mediums, including social media platforms, to ensure maximum participation of the aspiring entrepreneurs under these schemes. He stressed the importance of organizing awareness camps in schools, colleges and rural areas across Jammu and Kashmir so that people, especially youth and women, are fully informed about the benefits and opportunities available under various self-employment initiatives.

The Deputy Chief Minister instructed the officials to involve local public representatives in these awareness programmes and ensure their participation in outreach camps to strengthen the public engagement and awareness at the grassroots level.

Calling for institutional reforms, he urged the Board to revamp its functioning by implementing tangible and result-oriented measures aimed at improving the efficiency, transparency and service delivery.

“Our objective is to create employment opportunities and economic resources for the people who are willing to work, become self-reliant and emerge as job providers rather than job seekers,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.

He directed the officers and employees to maintain the highest standards of transparency and accountability to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the deserving beneficiaries effectively and without delay.

The Deputy Chief Minister also emphasized the need for adopting best practices from successful implementation models in other regions to enhance the effectiveness and impact of KVIB programmes.

Special focus was laid on ensuring greater participation of women in entrepreneurship and self-employment initiatives, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to economic development and financial empowerment.

The meeting also reviewed the functioning and progress of Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) Clusters, with directions issued for their further strengthening to support the traditional industries, artisans and rural enterprises.

Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce, Vikramjit Singh and other senior officers of Khadi and Village Industries Board and other concerned departments were present during the meeting.

The meeting was attended by the members of the Board of Directors, senior officers of the Cooperative Department and representative from the National Bank for Agricultural & Rural Development (NABARD), Jammu.

Des Raj, Managing Director and Member Secretary, presented a comprehensive overview of the Bank’s financial and operational performance during 2025–26 fiscal. He highlighted the significant progress achieved in business growth, deposit mobilization, credit expansion, recovery efforts, digital banking initiatives and adherence to regulatory requirements.

During the meeting, the Chairperson undertook a comprehensive review of the bank’s performance and assessed key financial and operational indicators as on March 31, 2026. She emphasized the need for focused and sustained efforts to improve the overall health of the institution. She directed the management to achieve significant progress across all major performance parameters.

Yasha Mudgal stressed that reducing Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) to benchmark levels prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) must remain a top priority for the bank. She observed that improved asset quality would not only strengthen the bank’s financial position but would also facilitate the securing of necessary regulatory approvals and licenses required for future growth and expansion.

Highlighting the core mandate of the cooperative banking sector, the Chairperson directed the bank to enhance its outreach among farmers and rural communities through the network of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) affiliated with the bank. She underscored the importance of expanding access to institutional credit for the farming community and ensuring that the cooperative institutions play a proactive role in supporting agricultural and rural development.

Expressing concern over the pace of progress in certain operational and financial areas, Yasha Mudgal called for immediate and result-oriented measures to arrest the creation of fresh NPAs, improve recovery of chronic overdue accounts, strengthen the Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR), improve the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio and significantly enhance lending under Priority Sector Lending (PSL) categories.

The Chairperson also reviewed the bank’s operational systems and directed that all customer accounts should have valid nominations registered to facilitate seamless settlement of claims in the event of death of account holders. She further instructed the management to ensure complete adherence to Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and other regulatory requirements across all branches of the bank.

Reiterating the importance of regulatory compliance, Yasha Mudgal directed the bank to strictly adhere to all guidelines, instructions, advisories and supervisory directions issued from time to time by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). She emphasized that robust compliance mechanisms are essential for maintaining transparency, strengthening governance standards, and ensuring sustainable growth.

The Board deliberated upon more than sixteen agenda items relating to the financial, administrative and operational functioning of the bank. Important matters discussed included compliance with observations raised during statutory inspections conducted by NABARD, appointment of the Statutory Auditor for the financial year 2026–27, authorization and nomination of officers for operation of the bank’s Demat Account maintained with the Stock Holding Corporation of India and amendments to the Fraud Risk Management and Prevention Policy in accordance with RBI Master Directions on Fraud Risk Management, 2024 and NABARD Advisory dated August 21, 2025.

The Board also discussed various matters concerning human resource management, promotions, institutional strengthening, governance reforms and measures aimed at improving the operational efficiency and customer service delivery.

Yasha Mudgal directed the General Manager and senior management of the bank to work with dedication and a clear roadmap for achieving satisfactory growth and improved performance during the current financial year. She stressed the need to outperform the achievements of the previous year by focusing on business expansion, recovery drives, prudent lending practices and enhanced customer outreach.

The Chairperson called upon the Board members and officers of the bank to work with renewed commitment, collective responsibility and a shared vision for the overall development, modernization and strengthening of Jammu Central Cooperative Bank Limited.

The drives aimed to identify establishments operating in violation of legal and regulatory requirements and to prevent the unauthorised sale and misuse of psychotropic substances and prescription medicines.

Surprise inspections of pharmacies and drug sale establishments were carried out by Drugs Control Officers, Munish Gupta at Doda and Imtiyaz Ahmed at Kishtwar, with support from respective district administrations, to ensure compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

The operations of 14 retail drug sale establishments were disallowed on the spot under Section 22(d) of the Act, four in Kishtwar and ten in Doda, for violations including non-maintenance of mandatory sale records, impersonation and other regulatory irregularities. Stocks of habit-forming formulations containing Tapentadol and Pregabalin, valued at approximately ₹2 lakh, were confiscated under Section 23 of the Act.

Preliminary investigations revealed that certain individuals are clandestinely procuring such drugs through online channels and that some establishments have been sourcing habit-forming formulations containing Pregabalin-300 mg and Tapentadol directly from suppliers outside the Union Territory in violation of departmental guidelines.

In Udhampur, action was initiated after Police Station Udhampur recovered 100 capsules of Pregabalin IP 300 mg (Roadwell) from an individual during investigation. Subsequent enquiry led to further recoveries and revealed an alleged supply chain originating from Nath Medicos, BattalBallian Road, Sailan Talab, Udhampur.

A joint inspection of the premises found stocks of Pregabalin-based formulations, including Gabarutin-300 Capsules. The proprietor failed to produce requisite sale and purchase records. The recovered stocks were formally seized under the Act and the operations of Nath Medicos have been disallowed with immediate effect pending further investigation.

In Kishtwar, acting on information from Senior Superintendent of Police Kishtwar, the Department conducted a detailed investigation into the recovery of Schedule H1 drugs from Adnana Ali S/o Amjad Ali Mir, resident of Malipeth Kishtwar and Mohsin Sarwar S/o Sajjad Hussain Mir, resident of Link Road Kishtwar. Schedule H1 drugs valued at approximately ₹1,17,700 were seized and legal proceedings initiated.

Notices have been issued to the individuals concerned seeking details of procurement, purchase, sale and distribution of the recovered formulations and to the pharmaceutical companies and marketing firms associated with the seized products to ascertain the complete supply chain.

Investigations across the three districts have resulted in the following regulatory actions: cancellation of the retail drug sale licence of M/s Iyana Pharmacy, Bhaderwah, Doda; disallowing the operations of M/s Hidayat Medicate, Kishtwar, pending investigation into procurement of habit-forming drugs through suppliers outside the Union Territory via online channels; and investigation into the suspected use of forged or fake licences in connection with drug procurement by a Srinagar-based entity.

Additionally, supply chain inquiries arising from the Kishtwar investigation led to the suspension of operations of M/s Tawi Enterprises, Bhatindi, Jammu along with seizure of drug stocks and issuance of a Show Cause Notice.

State Drugs Controller J&K Rajesh Kumar reiterated that no person or firm shall procure lesser-known brands of drug formulations containing habit-forming ingredients from suppliers outside the Union Territory through online platforms, courier services or speed post and that all drug sale establishments are duty-bound to maintain complete transparency in the procurement and sale of prescription medicines with abuse potential. He warned that any violation shall invite strict action under the Union Territory’s zero-tolerance policy, including cancellation of licences and prosecution wherever warranted.

Commissioner FDA J&K Khalid Jahangir stated that these actions reflect the Department’s commitment to safeguarding public health and curbing drug misuse and that enforcement drives and intelligence-based inspections shall continue across the Union Territory to identify and act against individuals and establishments involved in illegal drug distribution networks.

Anantnag :  Labour Commissioner, S. Charandeep Singh Thursday conducted an extensive tour of Anantnag district, including Wanpoh, Ashmuqam and Pahalgam, to review the registration of service providers and preparedness measures for the smooth and successful conduct of the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra -2026.

During the visit, the Labour Commissioner inspected the Labour Office-cum-Sarai at Wanpoh, visited the registration camp at Ashmuqam and reviewed the arrangements made at the Pahalgam base camp. He assessed the progress achieved in the registration of various service providers associated with the Yatra, including Ponywalas, Palkiwalas, Pithuwalas and Hawkers.

Interacting with registered beneficiaries and field functionaries, S. Charandeep Singh emphasized the importance of timely registration and directed the officers to ensure that all eligible service providers are covered well before the commencement of the Yatra. He also reviewed the facilities being provided to the service providers at registration centres and instructed the concerned officers to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free registration process.

On the occasion, RFID cards were distributed among registered service providers. The Labour Commissioner directed the field staff to expedite the distribution of RFID cards and ensure that every registered beneficiary receives the card in a timely manner. He observed that RFID-enabled registration is crucial for effective management, enhanced safety and better coordination during the pilgrimage.

The Labour Commissioner stressed the need for maintaining updated records of all registered service providers and called upon the officers to work in close coordination with all stakeholder departments and agencies for ensuring seamless arrangements during the Yatra period.

Reiterating the commitment of the Labour Department towards the welfare and facilitation of service providers, S. Charandeep Singh said that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure a safe, organized and successful Amarnath Yatra-2026.

The visit was attended by the Assistant Labour Commissioner, Anantnag, along with other officers and officials of the Labour Department.