Jammu – The Kashmir Horizon

Justice Rajnesh Oswal inaugurates 3rd National Lok Adalat-2026 at District Court Complex Jammu

K H News Service — Sun, 13 Sep 2026 06:08:07 +0000

Jammu| Sept. 12:The 3rd National Lok Adalat for the year 2026 was conducted Saturday in District Court Complex, Jammu, under the guidance of Chairman DLSA/Principal District & Sessions Judge, Jammu Tahir Khurshid Raina and overall supervision of Civil Judge Senior Division & Secretary DLSA Maleeka Sharma.
The event was graced by the presence of Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Administrative Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Justice Rajnesh Oswal along with DLSA Chairman Tahir Khurshid Raina inaugurated the National Lok Adalat at District Court Complex Janipur.
Justice Oswal highlighted the importance of Lok Adalat in resolving long-pending disputes through mutually acceptable settlements. His Lordship emphasized the benefits of Lok Adalat including speedy justice, reduced litigation costs and preservation of relationships, making it an attractive option for litigants seeking efficient dispute resolution.
Later, Justice Oswal along with the Principal District & Sessions Judge inspected the Courts where the Lok Adalat benches were constituted. They also distributed cheques of the MACT settled compensation amounts to the concerned parties/claimants during the Lok Adalat proceedings.
An amount of Rs. 1,15,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Ajay Misri (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation by ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. Ltd. An amount of Rs. 82,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Koushalya Devi (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation through J&K Bank. An amount of Rs. 57,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Neeta Kanth (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation through J&K Bank. An amount of Rs. 43,00,000/- was awarded in favour of SatpalSharma (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation by IFFCO TOKIO General Insurance Company. An amount of Rs. 1,00,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Darshan Lal (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation by Liberty General Insurance. An amount of Rs. 85,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Mehnaz Akhter &Ors (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation by IFFCO TOKIO General Insurance Company. An amount of Rs. 25,00,000/- was awarded in favour of ShiwaniTahotra (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation through J&K Bank. An amount of Rs. 20,00,000/- was awarded in favour of Chinta Devi (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation through J&K Bank. An amount of Rs. 19,50000/- was awarded in favour of ShakeelaBanoo (claimant) after settlement. The amount was paid as compensation through J&K Bank.
Many litigants participated in the Lok Adalat to avail the opportunity for amicable settlement of their disputes. A wide range of cases including Civil disputes, Bank Recovery cases, cases U/s 138 N.I. Act, Compoundable Criminal cases, MACT claims, Matrimonial disputes, Labour matters, Revenue cases and other compoundable cases were taken up.
Twenty Six benches comprising Judicial Officers along with Panel Lawyers/LADCs of DLSA Jammu were constituted at District Court Complex.
In all, 904 cases pertaining to different nature were taken up, out of which 409 cases were settled. The total Amount recovered stood at Rs. 22,16,27,013/-.
Similar National Lok Adalat sittings were held at Tehsil Legal Services Committee Bishnah, RS Pura and Akhnoor.

GMC Jammu, DH Reasi Sign MoU for Care Strengthening Specialised Services and Facilities

K H News Service — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 03:03:44 +0000

Reasi : A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was today signed between Government Medical College Jammu and District Hospital Reasi to establish a collaborative framework for strengthening healthcare delivery, improve referral mechanism, facilitate professional skill development and optimise clinical resources for enhanced patient care.

The MoU was signed by Principal and Dean, Government Medical College Jammu, Dr. Ashutosh Gupta and Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Reasi Dr. Karamvir Singh. Under the agreement, the Government Medical College Jammu will facilitate monthly super-speciality outreach services at District Hospital and Reasi in cardiology, neurology, nephrology, urology, endocrinology, oncology, gastroenterology and neurosurgery, subject to availability of resources.

The collaboration also provides for technical support and capacity building in palliative and geriatric care, addiction treatment, radiology, blood bank management and dialysis services. It envisages regular cataract surgeries under the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment, strengthening of High Dependency Unit, Intensive Care Unit and Tele-ICU services, besides support for day-care chemotherapy and oncology services.

The MoU further provides for super-specialist tele-consultation through the e-Sanjeevani platform, strengthening of laboratory services and capacity building of doctors, technicians and paramedical staff. Government Medical College, Jammu will also facilitate the supply of blood and blood components to District Hospital, Reasi, subject to statutory provisions and availability. The agreement also envisages assistance for Diplomate of National Board residency programmes, Joint Continuing Medical Education programmes, clinical workshops and academic sessions, besides opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate clinical postings, internship training and a rotational district residency programme at Reasi. District Hospital, Reasi will also serve as an “Associated Hospital” and internship grid under the academic supervision of Government Medical College, Jammu.

The District Development Commissioner, Reasi appreciated the initiative and commended the Government’s efforts towards strengthening institutional coordination, expanding access to specialised healthcare and referral services, and enhancing clinical capacity in the district. He also encouraged the staff of District Hospital, Reasi to continue their efforts towards providing quality healthcare to the people of the district.

Div Com Jammu reviews Forest Lands demarcation, sets two months’ deadline

K H News Service — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 20:20:46 +0000

Jammu | Sept, 9: Ramesh Kumar, the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, convened a meeting with senior officials to assess the progress of forest land demarcation in the Jammu Division and address related challenges. Among others Chief Conservator of Forests, Deputy Commissioners, and various forest officials attended the top meeting, with some participating virtually.
Speaking on the occasion Chief Conservator said that out of 1,555 forest areas, approximately 215 are classified as difficult, necessitating joint surveys with the Revenue Department. He noted the need for around 24,000 boundary pillars, with 25,000 already installed in the past three months. The Divisional Commissioner emphasized the urgency of joint demarcation efforts and the proper installation of boundary pillars, instructing the Revenue and Forest authorities to prioritize this task. He mandated the creation of a district-wise schedule within a week, detailing the areas to be surveyed, responsible personnel, and timelines for the fieldwork. A two-month deadline was set for completing the demarcation exercise, with strict adherence expected from all Deputy Commissioners and Divisional Forest Officers. Additionally, the Commissioner highlighted the need for local-level decisions regarding field team compositions based on the complexity of the areas involved. He urged the acceleration of cases related to infrastructure projects and the timely processing of applications on the PARIVESH Portal, ensuring that minor issues are resolved through effective coordination. The completion of boundary pillar installations is prioritized for the end of the year, with a strong emphasis on collaboration between the Revenue and Forest Departments to meet the established timelines. Regular monitoring will be essential to ensure the successful completion of the demarcation exercise within the specified period.

GCW Parade organises awareness prog

K H News Service — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 04:40:41 +0000

Jammu | August, 29: Government College for Women (GCW), Parade Ground, Jammu in collaboration with the Institutional Innovation Council (IIC) and Career Counselling and Placement Cell, organised a one-day awareness programme on Udhayam Jagruti 5.0 College Hackathon under Mission Yuva.
The programme was organised with the objective of creating awareness among students about entrepreneurship, innovation, start-up opportunities and the Udhayam Jagruti 5.0 College Hackathon, encouraging young minds to transform innovative ideas into viable entrepreneurial ventures. The programme was conducted by the Directorate of Employment, Jammu & Kashmir. Navdeep Kour, Career Counselling Officer, District Employment and Counselling Centre, apprised the students about Mission Yuva and the opportunities available under the initiative. Neha Dogra, Business Help Desk Lead, Jammu and Sanjana Singh, BHD Coordinator, sensitised the students about the support mechanisms and facilitation available to aspiring entrepreneurs.
A special interactive session was conducted by Vishali Gupta, who shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey with the students. She spoke about her experiences, challenges and learnings as an entrepreneur and encouraged students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset, take calculated risks and pursue their ideas with confidence and perseverance.
Principal Dr Naveen Anand interacted with the participating students and encouraged them to actively engage with initiatives that promote innovation, entrepreneurship and skill development. He emphasised the importance of developing an independent and creative approach towards career building and urged students to make the best use of the opportunities being provided through Mission Yuva and the Udhayam Jagruti initiative. Around 150 students from different disciplines participated in the awareness programme.
The interactive sessions provided students with insights into ideation, innovation, entrepreneurship and the various avenues available for converting ideas into sustainable ventures. The programme was coordinated by Dr Gurpreet Kour, Convener, Institutional Innovation Council along with the team of IIC and the Career Counselling and Placement Cell including Prof Sonia Bhau, Prof Pooja Devi, Dr Manjulla Gupta, Dr Deepti Salotra, Dr Kulwinder Kour and Prof. Shvaita Saroop were also present during the programme. The programme concluded with an encouragement to students to actively participate in Udhayam Jagruti 5.0 College Hackathon and utilise the opportunities offered under Mission Yuva to explore their entrepreneurial potential and contribute towards building an innovation-driven and self-reliant economy.

J&K activists, students hold protest at JNU, seek protection of human rights in PoJK

KH Web Desk — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:20:11 +0000

New Delhi, Aug 1: Activists and students from Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday organised a silent protest and solidarity meeting at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), calling for the protection of human rights and justice for civilians in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The programme, held under the banner of Jammu and Kashmir Students of JNU at Sabarmati Dhaba, was attended by students, academicians, intellectuals and members of the J&K community.

Speakers expressed concern over reports of alleged human rights violations and hardships faced by civilians in PoJK, stressing that innocent people should not bear the consequences of political conflicts. They urged peaceful and lawful efforts to address humanitarian concerns and safeguard the dignity and rights of affected communities.

Social activists Ravinder Pandita and Romi Sharma Poonchi condemned the reported violence against civilians in PoJK and appealed to the international community and human rights organisations to examine the situation, ensure accountability and work towards the protection of civilians.

Rizwan Ahmed, a law student at Jamia Millia Islamia, criticised Pakistan’s handling of the situation in PoJK and called for the protection of fundamental human rights through peaceful and democratic means.

Addressing the gathering, Umar Farooq, a PhD scholar at JNU’s School of Language, Literature and Culture Studies, highlighted the shared historical, cultural and social ties across Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the need to promote peace, dialogue and reconciliation.

Another speaker, Hamid Hashmi, a PhD scholar at JNU, said the people of PoJK share deep historical and familial ties with those in Jammu and Kashmir. He called upon democratic institutions, civil society organisations and the international community to work towards ensuring justice, dignity and the protection of human rights.

The programme concluded with participants reiterating their appeal for peace, justice and respect for human dignity, while expressing hope for dialogue and the protection of the rights of all people in the region.

MP Sajjad Kichloo Recommends Over ₹1.91 Crore Under MPLADS for Flood Relief, Healthcare, Tourism in Doda, Kishtwar

KH Web Desk — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:59:25 +0000

Srinagar, July 22: Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo has recommended the release of more than ₹1.91 crore under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for flood relief in Doda district, strengthening healthcare infrastructure and supporting NGOs in Kishtwar, besides improving road connectivity to a tourist destination.

In a communication dated July 18, 2026, addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Doda, Kichloo recommended ₹15 lakh from his MPLADS allocation to provide financial assistance to families affected by the July 7 flash floods and cloudburst in Thathri.

He enclosed a list of 25 families whose houses were damaged in the disaster and urged the district administration to release the assistance under the admissible provisions of the MPLADS Guidelines for natural calamities after completing the necessary official assessment.

In another recommendation dated July 9, 2026, addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, the MP proposed ₹48.65 lakh for upgrading facilities at District Hospital Kishtwar.

The proposal includes the procurement of two Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances (Mahindra Trax) worth ₹28 lakh, a 1.83 cubic metre Intra V-30 hopper tipper for garbage collection (₹12 lakh), six stretchers (₹1.50 lakh), 10 commercial dustbins (₹1.75 lakh), six wheelchairs (₹1.40 lakh), five examination tables (₹2 lakh) and five waiting benches (₹2 lakh).

Kichloo has also recommended ₹28 lakh for the purchase of two Mahindra Trax ambulances for registered non-governmental organisations in Kishtwar. Under the proposal, Ababeel Kishtwar and Hilal Health Care Society would receive one ambulance each, costing ₹14 lakh.

To promote tourism and improve connectivity, the MP has further recommended ₹1 crore for the construction of a road leading to a tourist destination in Kishtwar.

The recommendations have been forwarded to the concerned Deputy Commissioners for necessary action in accordance with the MPLADS Guidelines.

Kichloo, who represents Jammu and Kashmir in the Rajya Sabha, has urged the district administrations to process the proposals on priority and ensure their early implementation for the benefit of the affected families and the public.

TB awareness session conducted at NHIDCL regional office, Jammu

K H News Service — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 01:17:29 +0000

Jammu :State Tuberculosis Officer Jammu Dr Jyoti Jolly and team, along with District Tuberculosis Officer Jammu Dr Anu Saloch, conducted a TB Awareness Session at the Regional Office of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Jammu, under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and the 100-Day TB Elimination Campaign 2.0.

During the session, the team shared detailed information on tuberculosis (TB), including its symptoms, prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, nutritional support and the importance of treatment adherence. Participants interacted with the team and raised queries on TB prevention and care, which were satisfactorily addressed.

The officials also discussed community participation and the role of the Nikshay Mitra initiative in providing nutritional support to TB patients. Executive Director NHIDCL Ashish Shukla appreciated the efforts of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), Jammu and expressed willingness to support the mission by becoming a Nikshay Mitra and contributing to the goal of a TB-Mukt Jammu.

The programme concluded with an appeal to all participants to spread TB awareness within their workplaces, families and communities and participate in the spirit of Jan Bhagidari for TB elimination.

DC Kathua holds Public Grievances redressal camp at Mangloor

KH Web Desk — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:00:07 +0000

Assures time-bound redressal; directs for regular field visits by officers

KATHUA, JUNE 03: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today convened a Public Grievances Redressal Camp at Panchayat Mangloor East in Block Dinga Amb to listen to and address the issues and concerns of the local populace.

A large number of locals participated in the grievance redressal camp. They projected several demands concerning infrastructure development, improvement of public services delivery and other matters of public importance. They sought expeditious resolution of civic and developmental concerns, besides implementation of government schemes and projects in the area.

The DC patiently listened to the grievances and directed the concerned officers to take prompt action for the redressal of the same. He also instructed officers to undertake field visits at least once or twice a week to monitor developmental works and maintain close interaction with the public.

Regarding the demand for a playground, the Deputy Commissioner informed that the matter has already been taken up with the Sports Council. He further announced that a registration-cum-awareness camp on the government welfare schemes would be organized in the block on coming Wednesday to facilitate public outreach and service delivery.

The Deputy Commissioner also appealed to the people to actively support the District Administration’s 100-Day Nasha Mukht Campaign and contribute towards making society drug-free, particularly by safeguarding the youth from the menace of substance abuse.

The concerned district and sectoral officers assured the public that the genuine issues raised during the camp would be addressed on priority.

Among others, ADC Mahima Madan, SDM Phulail Singh, CPO Ranjeet Thakur, IAS Probationer Nidhi, ACD Akhil Sadotra and other district officers were present on the occasion.

JMC conducts special sanitation drive at Deeli Pond in Ward No. 55

K H News Service — Sun, 24 May 2026 00:45:04 +0000

Jammu, :As part of the ongoing CLEAN JAMMU GREEN JAMMU campaign launched by the Jammu Municipal Corporation, a special sanitation drive was conducted SaturdayatDeeli area in Ward No. 55. The drive was undertaken by the Health and Sanitation Wing of JMC with the objective of improving sanitation standards, preserving water bodies and promoting environmental sustainability in the area.

During the drive, extensive cleaning operations were carried out inside the pond as well as in the adjoining surroundings. The sanitation workers removed accumulated waste, weeds, silt and other pollutants from the water body and nearby areas to restore cleanliness and improve the overall environment. The drive also aimed at spreading awareness among the local residents regarding the importance of keeping water bodies clean and preventing the dumping of waste into ponds and drains. The wet waste collected was sent to Bandurakh for composting.

To encourage and boost the morale of the sanitation workers engaged in the operation, Dr.Devansh Yadav personally visited the site and reviewed the progress of the sanitation drive. He interacted with the workers and appreciated their dedicated efforts towards maintaining cleanliness and hygiene across Jammu city. The Commissioner also issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned officers to ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of ponds and other public spaces under the jurisdiction of the Corporation.

While reviewing the sanitation works, the Commissioner stressed upon the need for maintaining high standards of cleanliness in view of the upcoming Swachh Survekshan 2025-26. He directed all officials and field functionaries to intensify sanitation activities across all wards and ensure proper waste management, regular desilting of drains and upkeep of public spaces throughout the city.

The Commissioner further stated that the Jammu Municipal Corporation is fully committed towards achieving the objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission and making Jammu a clean, green and environmentally sustainable city. He appealed to the citizens to actively participate in cleanliness drives and cooperate with the Municipal Corporation by avoiding littering and maintaining proper sanitation practices in their respective localities.

Among those present on the occasion were Joint Commissioner (H&S), Abdul Sattar, Health Officer, Dr. Shahid Hussain, VAS and IEC Incharge, Dr.Divya Sharma, AFO, Dr. Rabia Khan, CTO South, Balkar Angurana, Sanitary Supervisors, field staff, sanitation workers and other officials of the Corporation who actively participated in the drive.

The Jammu Municipal Corporation reiterated its commitment to continue such drives in different parts of the city in the coming days to ensure better sanitation, environmental protection and public health for all residents of Jammu city.

Secretary DLSA Jammu conducts monthly inspection at Prison Legal Aid Clinic -Central Jail Kotbhalwal

K H News Service — Sat, 23 May 2026 00:47:40 +0000

Jammu : Sub-Judge-Secretary District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Jammu Maleeka Sharma Friday conducted the monthly inspection of the Prison Legal Aid Clinic at Central Jail KotBhalwal.

During the visit, she inspected the overall functioning of the clinic and interacted with the Para Legal Volunteers deputed there. The records and registers maintained by the PLVs, including the inmate records and legal aid applications submitted by the inmates, were thoroughly checked.

The Secretary reviewed the status of pending applications and directed the PLVs to ensure timely forwarding of requests to DLSA Jammu with proper follow-up of cases. She also emphasized maintaining accurate and updated records as per NALSA guidelines.

The inspection was carried out under the guidance of Principal District & Sessions Judge (Chairman, DLSA Jammu) Ravinder Nath Watal to ensure effective legal aid services to jail inmates and proper implementation of legal services schemes.