The searches were conducted at the houses and premises of JeI members and their associates as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the terror ecosystem and its support structures. During the operation, incriminating material and digital devices were recovered, while several JeI members were questioned and bound down under law.

Kulgam Police reiterates its firm resolve to act against all elements associated with terrorism and its ecosystem, reaffirming its commitment towards maintaining peace, stability, and public order in the district.

Calls for emerging technology courses, diversified academic offerings, measures to boost enrolment

SRINAGAR, JUNE 23: Maintaining that student welfare should remain the top priority, Minister for Higher Education, Sakeena Itoo, today said that sustained reforms in the higher education sector are essential to make colleges more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the aspirations of students.

The Minister made these remarks while addressing a comprehensive review meeting held to assess the ongoing admission process in the Government Degree Colleges across Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, Sakeena Itoo had a comprehensive review of the admission status across Government Degree Colleges. She directed the Higher Education Department and college authorities to strengthen awareness and outreach initiatives in the institutions with comparatively low enrolment to ensure wider access to higher education.

The Minister emphasised that Principals and faculty members should actively engage with the students and parents to enhance awareness about the academic programmes, scholarship opportunities and career pathways available in Government Degree Colleges.

Reviewing the admission figures, Sakeena Itoo was informed that colleges have recorded a significant rise in student admissions this year after the government introduced several measures to simplify and ease the admission process.

Sakeena Itoo, who has been closely monitoring the admission process, reiterated her commitment towards strengthening the higher education sector in Jammu and Kashmir. She said that it is the prime concern of the present dispensation to ensure that every eligible student gets access to quality higher education.

“The new reforms have helped reverse the declining trend in college admissions witnessed over the past few years and we hope that the admission figures would exceed 50,000 after the completion of next two rounds of admissions,” asserted the Minister.

She said that legacy colleges continue to witness higher demand, which is encouraging but stressed the need to further strengthen the higher education system by expanding the choice of courses and enhancing student welfare measures to make colleges more attractive for the aspiring students. She added that walk-in admissions have been facilitated through an in-house online portal to ensure that no eligible student is denied access to higher education. She informed that the Principals have been given flexibility in the admission process to take student-centric decisions in the best interest of students.

She stressed the need to rationalise course offerings, upgrade infrastructure and create academic opportunities that respond to the changing needs and aspirations of the students. She directed the officers to closely monitor the admission trends and take all necessary measures to improve enrolment, particularly in colleges where the admissions remain below expectations.

The Minister also sought inputs from the Principals on the persistent decline in admissions in certain subjects and asked them to suggest measures to arrest the downward trend. She stressed that the neighbouring colleges should offer diversified courses rather than identical programmes, so as to optimise academic resources and provide students with a wider range of educational opportunities.

Stressing the importance of ensuring uninterrupted academic activities, the Minister directed all the colleges to make arrangements for commencement of classes at the earliest so that the students do not suffer any academic loss.

Sakeena Itoo emphasised the need for rationalisation of faculty across colleges and directed the Higher Education Department to ensure optimum utilisation of teaching staff by deploying faculty in a manner that strengthens academic standards and addresses gaps in colleges facing low admissions.

The Minister emphasised the need to introduce new courses in emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and other future-oriented disciplines, to align higher education with evolving academic and industry requirements. She also called for structural reforms across colleges to ensure a more balanced and uniform distribution of admissions.

“We have to introduce new courses in emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Skill Linked Hybrid Tracks and Econometrics. Our goal is to ensure that every eligible student receives an opportunity to pursue higher education of his choice,” the Minister said.

She further asserted that the government is focusing on enhancing the employability of students by promoting industry-oriented initiatives and skill development programmes so that graduates are better equipped to secure meaningful employment after completing their education.

In a handout to GNS, a spokesman for traffic police said that the procession will be taken out from Guru Bazar to Dalgate, affecting traffic movement on M.A. Road and adjoining areas.

As per the advisory, there will be no movement of traffic from Karan Nagar towards Jehangir Chowk via Shaheed Gunj and Tankipora from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM. The stretch from Jehangir Chowk-M.A. Road up to Dalgate-Badyari will remain closed for traffic from 5:00 AM till the procession ends.

Traffic coming from Batmaloo, Secretariat, and Rambagh towards M.A. Road will be diverted towards Residency Road via Hari Singh High Street during this period. Vehicles from Rainawari and Nowpora will be diverted at Mamta Hotel towards SRTC Bridge, Barbarshah, Kralkhud, Habba Kadal, and Karan Nagar. Traffic from Khanyar and Ikhwan Chowk will be diverted at SRTC Bridge towards Barbarshah, Kralkhud, Habba Kadal, and Karan Nagar.

Motorists from Nishat, Shalimar, and adjacent areas have been advised to use Boulevard, Gupkar Road, Radio Kashmir, R.R. Road, and Abdullah Bridge. Traffic coming from Pantha Chowk and Sonwar will be diverted at Radio Kashmir via Residency Road and Abdullah Bridge. Tourists and locals from Nehru Park and nearby areas can use Nehru Park, Gupkar Road, or Nishat-Fore Shore Road.

The public has been requested to avoid unnecessary movement from Karan Nagar towards Dalgate via M.A. Road on June 24 to prevent inconvenience.

For assistance, citizens can contact the Traffic Police Control Room at 103.

*Parking arrangements* have been made at S.P. College Ground, Gindun Park, Batmaloo Bus Stand, and Zabarwan Park.

*Cut-off points* where no vehicles will be allowed beyond are Jehangir Chowk, Mamta Crossing, Aziz Bridge, and Ikhwan Chowk, reads the statement.(GNS)

Fresh Registration, Preferences Open from 23rd to 26th June on JK Admissions Portal

SRINAGAR, JUNE 23: Higher Education Department, J&K, has notified the conduct of the Spot Round for Undergraduate/Integrated PG admissions in Government Degree Colleges of J&K for the Academic Session 2026–27, for filling up the vacant seats remaining after completion of Round-2 admission formalities.
The Spot Round shall be conducted through two parallel streams.

Programmes having substantial vacant seats have been placed under the Walk-in Admissions category, where eligible aspirants shall report directly to the concerned colleges for admission. Other programmes shall be filled through Round-3 / Direct System Allotment on the Centralised Admission Portal, https://jkadmissions.in, strictly on the basis of 10+2 merit, preferences submitted by candidates, eligibility, and availability of vacant seats.

As per the notified schedule, fresh registration on the admission portal for candidates who had not registered earlier, along with submission of fresh college/programme preferences for Round-3 programmes, shall remain open from 23-06-2026 to 26-06-2026. This preference submission window is open to all eligible candidates, including fresh aspirants, candidates seeking walk-in admission, and candidates already admitted in earlier rounds who wish to seek upgradation to another college or programme.

Walk-in admissions and document verification at colleges shall be held from 25-06-2026 to 02-07-2026, subject to availability of vacant seats. Candidates seeking walk-in admission must be registered on the Centralised Admission Portal before reporting to the concerned college. Admission fee for such admissions shall be deposited online through the portal only.

Furthermore, Candidates allotted seats in the Round-3/ Direct System Allotment List, that shall be published on the Centralised Admission Portal on 29-06-2026, shall deposit the prescribed admission fee online on or before 01-07-2026 and shall report to the allotted college for physical verification of original documents from 29-06-2026 to 02-07-2026.

The department has informed that candidates who have not secured admission in any previous round, candidates who were allotted seats earlier but did not complete admission formalities, candidates already admitted but seeking a different college or programme, and candidates whose applications were rejected during verification due to correctable issues may participate in the Spot Round, subject to fulfilment of eligibility conditions. However, candidates who voluntarily cancelled their confirmed admission shall not be eligible to participate.

Fresh applicants shall submit their application online on https://jkadmissions.in and pay the prescribed non-refundable application fee of ₹200. Candidates who had already applied earlier are not required to submit a fresh application or pay any additional application fee. All candidates are advised to carefully verify their mobile number and email address on the portal to ensure timely receipt of admission-related communications.

Higher Education Department has also advised aspirants to visit the counselling and facilitation centres established at Degree Colleges for assistance in form submission and preference filling. Candidates may also explore course offerings and subject combinations available in different colleges through the Directorate of Colleges website https://directorcollegesjk.in under the Courses/Colleges section.

Director Colleges J&K, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, appealed to all eligible aspirants to utilise the Spot Round opportunity and complete all admission formalities strictly within the notified timelines. He further advised candidates to regularly check the JK Admissions Portal and follow the official WhatsApp Channel for Admissions 2026–27, linked on the portal, for updates, notices, allotment lists, and schedules.

The allotment of Minor, SEC, MD and other course components shall be done after commencement of classwork as per the notified circular.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 kV Kanipora-Batapora line will be observed due to which power supply to Gagren, Sharathpora, Shopian Town, Memender, Habidipora, Sedow, Herpora, Batapora, Hotline Town, Batapora, Devpora Mini Secretariate Shopian and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 28 June 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 kV Kanipora-Keller line will be observed due to which power supply to Keller, Gatipora, Mohsward, Maspora, Kathanhalan, Nadpora, Balapora, Drabgam, Shadimarg, Sangerwani, and Dompora will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 30 June 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 kV Lassipora-Reshipora line and 33 kV Lassipora-Landoora line will be observed due to which power supply to Chitragam, Nagbal, Zainapora, Reban, Awnera, Aglar, Sugan, Turkewangam, Moolu, Landoora, Hermain, DK Pora, Hajipora, Mantribugh, Nadigam, Chakoora, Ratnipora, Dangam, Wangam, Wachi, Babapora, Safnagri and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 24 & 30 June 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 kV Awantipora Sangam-II line will be observed due to which power supply to Siamoh, K-Koot, Kiagam, Hariparigam, Chakoora, Gulzarpora, Panzga, Railway and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM ton02 PM on 28 & 30 June 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Kulgam DH Pora line will be observed due to which power supply to DH Pora, Ahmadabad, Aharibal, Bhatipora, Hospital, KB Pora, Nagam, Khull, Gopalpora, Nillow, Arreh, Begam, Sehpora and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 27 June 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV Badampora-Safapora Tapline will be observed due to which power supply to Safapora, Gratbal, Jarkobagh, Manasbal and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 24 June 2026.

The meeting was attended GOC 16 Corps, GOC 15 Corps, GOC 9 Corps, Spl. DGP Coordination J&K, ADGP CID J&K, Addl. Director SIB J&K/L, Commissioner SB Jammu, ADG CRPF J&K, IGP POS PHQ J&K, IGP Kashmir zone, IGP Jammu Zone, IGP Security J&K, IGP Railways J&K, IGP Traffic J&K, IGP CID J&K, GOC CIF (K) Shariefabad Srinagar, GOC CIF (V) Awantipora, Addl. Commissioner SB Srinagar, IG BSF Kashmir, IG CRPF KOS, IG NWF ITBP, IG CRPF Srinagar, IG CRPF Jammu, IG BSF Jammu, all Ranges DIsG of J&K, DIG IR Kashmir, DIG CID Kashmir, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG Armed Jammu, DIG Armed Kashmir, DIG Security J&K, DIG Railways J&K, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG SSB Jammu, DIG CISF Jammu, DIG CRPF South Sgr, DIG BSF Ftr. Hqrs. (K), DIG CRPF North Sgr, DIG RPF Kashmir, DIG ITBP Srinagar, DIG ITBP Jammu, all Districts SSsP of J&K, SSsP PCR /Traffic City /Rural /NHW /Railways /APCR/CID SB /CI /Security J&K, I/Cs JPCR Baltal/ Pahalgam /SSP Telecom Kashmir, DD SIB Jammu, SPs of SOG Jammu/Srinagar and other senior officers.

At the outset, the participating officers briefed the DGP on the security preparedness and arrangements put in place to ensure the smooth, peaceful, and incident-free conduct of the annual pilgrimage. The DGP also reviewed the facilities and arrangements being made for the convenience and safety of the Yatris.

During the meeting, Shri Nalin Prabhat issued a series of directions aimed at further strengthening the security architecture for the Yatra. He directed all agencies to enhance security measures at vulnerable points, particularly along the main Yatra route and other sensitive locations. He emphasized the need to revisit and further reinforce security arrangements along the National Highway and railway infrastructure.

DGP J&K stressed strict adherence to the established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and directed that daily briefings be conducted for all deployed personnel to ensure operational readiness and situational awareness. Shri Nalin Prabhat also instructed officers to sensitize Yatris at camp locations regarding safety protocols through awareness campaigns, including the display of banners and posters highlighting SOPs and important Do’s and Don’ts at strategic locations to ensure effective dissemination of information.

Underscoring the importance of vigilance and accountability, the DGP stated that there is no room for complacency or errors in the security grid and directed officers to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and preparedness.

Shri Nalin Prabhat further emphasized close coordination among all security and intelligence agencies operating on the ground and directed them to ensure timely sharing of information to achieve desired security outcomes. The DGP instructed the forces to work jointly and intensify efforts to neutralize the remaining terrorists and their associates active in the Valley. He also called for enhanced cordon and search operations, particularly around Yatra routes, National Highway stretches, railway stations, and other critical locations.

The DGP directed officers to maintain strict vigilance over social media platforms and ensure prompt intervention to counter misinformation and fake narratives. He also instructed that legal action be taken against individuals involved in spreading rumours or creating panic through false information.

Reviewing the security and administrative arrangements for the forthcoming Muharram observances, Shri Nalin Prabhat directed officers to maintain robust security measures while ensuring close coordination with members of local Shia associations. He stressed the need for smooth conduct of Muharram processions and directed the concerned officers to formulate and implement comprehensive traffic management plans for the convenience of the general public. He also instructed that procession routes be publicized well in advance to facilitate public awareness and minimize inconvenience.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the collective commitment of all security agencies to ensure the safe, secure, and peaceful conduct of Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2026 and forthcoming religious events across the Kashmir Valley.

The project comprises two major components: restoration of Lala Da Bagh Nallah from Government School, Nai Basti at an estimated cost of ₹4.66 crore, and restoration of the downstream stretch adjoining the Army Area at an estimated cost of ₹3.77 crore. Upon completion, the project will substantially improve the carrying capacity of the drainage channel, facilitate efficient storm-water discharge and significantly reduce the risk of waterlogging and flooding during heavy rainfall.

On the occasion, Sham Lal Sharma appreciated the Government of India for allocating substantial funds to Jammu and Kashmir under the SASCI Scheme for critical flood restoration and infrastructure strengthening works. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his continued commitment towards the development of Jammu and Kashmir and for prioritizing initiatives that strengthen urban infrastructure and improve civic amenities. He said that such interventions are crucial for addressing long-standing drainage challenges, protecting public infrastructure and ensuring sustainable urban development.

The MLA stated that the restoration of Lala Da Bagh Nallah has been a long-pending requirement of the area and will provide major relief to local residents by improving drainage efficiency and minimizing the threat of inundation during the monsoon season. He emphasized that strengthening drainage networks is essential not only for safeguarding lives and property but also for supporting planned urban growth and environmental sustainability. He further reiterated his commitment to ensuring that development projects are implemented efficiently and completed within stipulated timelines for the benefit of the people.

Sham Lal Sharma added that several major projects relating to roads, drainage systems, public utilities and civic infrastructure are being implemented across Jammu North Assembly Constituency. He said that the objective is to ensure modern infrastructure, efficient public services and an improved quality of life for residents, while accelerating the pace of development in every ward of the constituency.

The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by Mandal President Shri Pankaj Pandha, District Vice President Shri Suresh Khajuria, Former Councillor Shri Mohinder Kumar, District President Mahila Morcha Smt. Anjali Chouhan,SC Morcha President Shri Hoshank Chand, Polling Booth President Shri Ashok Kumar, AE-UEED Shri Amandeep Sharma and other concerned officials along with party functionaries, local residents and other prominent citizens.

LG also directs for comprehensive traffic management plan for Muharram and Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra

Srinagar, 23rd June 2026: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today chaired a high-level meeting to review the arrangements for Muharram across Jammu Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Shri Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Shri Anil Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works (R&B) Department; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department; Shri S.J.M.Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; Shri Nitish Kumar, ADGP, CID; Dr. Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Administrative Secretaries, IGPs, Divisional Commissioners, Municipal Commissioners and other senior officers.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the senior officials to ensure seamless security, traffic management, law and order and availability of public amenities.

He stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholder departments to ensure timely and effective delivery of services.

Reviewing essential services, the Lieutenant Governor directed for uninterrupted power and potable water supply, adequate sanitation and medical facilities, availability of ambulances and fire and emergency response teams at procession routes.

He directed the senior officials to remain accessible on the ground for real time monitoring and quick redressal of public grievances.

“All arrangements should be made with utmost sensitivity and efficiency. Senior Officers must remain available on the ground and maintain constant monitoring to ensure prompt response to any situation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Shri Anshul Garg apprised the meeting of the arrangements in place by various departments for the smooth and peaceful observance of Muharram.

The Lieutenant Governor also directed the IGP Traffic to enforce a comprehensive traffic management plan for Muharram and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to ensure smooth movement of processions, Yatris and the general public.

The IGP Traffic was directed to conduct meetings with field officers and strengthen coordination with all stakeholder agencies for effective implementation of the traffic management plan.

The Lieutenant Governor also directed officials to raise awareness about traffic SOPs and cut-off timings, while increasing the number of RFID card counters to better facilitate devotees of Baba Barfani.

Since its commencement on June 16, the league has emerged as a vibrant celebration of football, bringing together teams representing districts from across Kashmir and providing a competitive platform for local talent to showcase their abilities.

Each match day has witnessed increasing enthusiasm among spectators, with football lovers from different parts of the Valley thronging the stadium to cheer for their respective teams. The atmosphere reached new heights on Sunday on 21 June, when not only local supporters but also tourists visiting Kashmir made their way to the TRC Turf Ground to witness the action.

The opening phase of the tournament has produced several closely fought encounters and exciting performances. The participation of players from all districts has added a unique flavour to the competition, adding a spirit of healthy rivalry and sportsmanship.

As the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council is organising the initiative, the overwhelming response from spectators and the quality of football on display reaffirm the UT’s passion for the sport. The Council expresses confidence that the league would continue to inspire young footballers and contribute significantly to the growth of grassroots football in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pertinent to mention, this is the first initiative of its kind by any Government in the country, in which district players were scouted, district teams are formed, and were given an equal opportunity to compete with professional players from the valley in an evenly distributed district team of the League.

With the group stage progressing and anticipation building with each fixture, the KCFL is fast establishing itself as a landmark sporting event and a platform dedicated to celebrating and scouting local football heroes.

Lieutenant Governor highlighted historic transformations under Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the inclusive development revolution that was driven by the 3-tier Panchayati Raj system

In 2020, we set out to build a J&K where government reaches the citizen’s doorstep. With a ‘People First’ approach, we revolutionized public service delivery. From just 35 online services in 2020 to more than 1,100 by 2023, UT topped the national e-service delivery rankings: LG Sinha

We made Panchayati Raj institutions the strongest voice and largest participants in governance. Through ‘Block Diwas’ and ‘Back to Village’ campaigns, we tried to ensure services reach doorsteps, infrastructure meets local needs, and policies flow from the grassroots up: LG

We put the common person’s aspirations at the core of administration. By ensuring accountability and citizen participation, we have translated a commitment to multi-generational change into reality within 3 years and rebuilt a powerful relationship of trust with citizens: LG Sinha

Srinagar, 23rd June 2026: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today addressed “Seva Se Samriddhi- Panchayat-led Service Delivery” Regional Workshop organised by Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj and J&K Administration. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted historic transformations under Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the inclusive development revolution that was driven by the 3-tier Panchayati Raj system.

“In 2020, we set out to build a J&K where government reaches the citizen’s doorstep. With a ‘People First’ approach, we revolutionized public service delivery. From just 35 online services in 2020 to more than 1,100 by 2023, UT topped the national e-service delivery rankings.

We made Panchayati Raj institutions the strongest voice and largest participants in governance. Through ‘Block Diwas’ and ‘Back to Village’ campaigns, we tried to ensure services reach doorsteps, infrastructure meets local needs, and policies flow from the grassroots up.

We put the common person’s aspirations at the core of administration. By ensuring accountability and citizen participation, we have translated a commitment to multi-generational change into reality within 3 years and rebuilt a powerful relationship of trust with citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor urged the participants from Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand to study the grassroots service delivery models of Jammu Kashmir including BEAMS-EMPOWERMENT, Aapki Zameen-Aapki Nigrani and “Your Mobile -Our Office” which had transformed service delivery and program implementation in villages. He highlighted the Government of India report which had observed that between 2016 and 2018 Jammu Kashmir recorded 20 million digital transactions over three years. In contrast, in the first six months of 2023 alone there were 50 Crore digital transactions – far exceeding many large states such as Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala.

“More than 15,000 CSC (Common Service Centre) outlets are operational in Jammu Kashmir today. Of the 4,290 panchayats, 4,211 are connected to this network, representing an impressive 98.16 percent coverage. The remaining 79 panchayats are in very remote and border areas where connectivity remains a challenge.

We must also strengthen a culture of knowledge exchange. It is essential to share successful models, best practices, and innovations from each state and Union Territory so that service delivery at the last mile becomes more effective. I believe events like this will foster mutual learning and cooperation. A successful panchayat model in Haryana can inspire a panchayat in Karnataka. Similarly, an innovative initiative from Jammu Kashmir can open new possibilities in Jharkhand,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor said that the regional conference on service delivery is a reflection of three core traits of India- unity in diversity, strength through cooperation, and prosperity through service.

“I am confident these qualities together will build local governance rooted in collaboration, participation, and a spirit of change. Our objective must be clear: to develop panchayats where every citizen can access services digitally, grievances are resolved quickly, decisions are taken collectively, and accountability is systemic. We must remember that the panchayat of the future will not be merely an administrative unit. They will be a dynamic centre of innovation, equal opportunity, sustainable development, and public trust,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor shared key recommendations with the participants to implement in their respective states. The focus remains on strengthening grassroots service delivery and driving innovation across the nation.

“My first recommendation is to establish a “Village Innovation Lab” in every panchayat. Local youth, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and social organisations can collaborate there on low-cost solar solutions, new irrigation techniques, and other local innovations. My second recommendation is to run modern capacity-building programmes in every panchayat so leaders grow confident and capable of building self-reliant, progressive villages. My third recommendation is to institutionalise participatory budgeting in every panchayat- an initiative we had launched in Jammu Kashmir in 2021. When citizens decide how part of the panchayat fund is spent, governance becomes a powerful means of citizen participation.

My fourth recommendation is to mainstream sustainable development models like Green Jammu Kashmir, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, Ek Ped Beti Ke Naam, across panchayats nationwide. My fifth recommendation is to put women in leadership roles across all schemes. In Jammu Kashmir we prioritised women’s leadership in campaigns against substance abuse and in ensuring access to clean drinking water, dairy, health, education, and social equity,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

As part of the workshop, Panditpora Gram Panchayat from Kupwara and Shri Syed Waris Hafiz, a dedicated CSC Village Level Entrepreneur from Budgam, J&K UT, along with outstanding Gram Panchayats and Common Service Centres (CSCs) from participating states were recognized and felicitated.

The workshop, held in collaboration with the Common Services Centre Special Purpose Vehicle (CSC-SPV), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, J&K, forms part of a sustained series of initiatives undertaken by the Ministry to facilitate improved service delivery and strengthen Ease of Living in Grameen Bharat through empowered, accountable, and responsive Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Local Bodies.

Representatives from civil society organisations, academic and research institutions, and organisations working in rural technology and digital public infrastructure also participated, contributing diverse perspectives on last-mile governance and service delivery.

Deliberations focused on strengthening Panchayat-led service delivery through digital transformation, citizen participation, innovation, and improved accessibility of public services at the grassroots. Panel discussions, technical sessions, and experience-sharing sessions provided a structured platform for inter-State knowledge exchange and the dissemination of scalable governance models.

Shri Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, J&K; Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Shri Saurabh Bhagat, Commissioner Secretary, Information Technology, J&K; Ms. Palka Sahni, Joint Secretary, MoPR; Shri Pravin Chandekar, Chief Operating Officer, Common Service Centres; Ms. Rehana Batul, Director General, J&K IMPARD; Shri Mohammad Aijaz Asad, Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, J&K; Shri Rajiv Omprakashn, DIG CKR; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Ms Anoo Malhotra, DG Rural Sanitation J&K; Panchayat functionaries, elected representatives, Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), and senior officials attended the inaugural session.