Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) here today organized a comprehensive sanitation drive at the pond located in Ward No. 63, Gurha Brahmana, Bantalab.
The drive was carried out under the leadership of MLA Jammu North, Sham Lal Sharma and Commissioner, JMC, Dr. Devansh Yadav and it witnessed participation from Disha NGO, local residents, volunteers and municipal staff.
During the drive, accumulated waste, silt and debris were cleared from the pond and its surroundings.
Addressing the gathering, Sham Lal Sharma emphasized that water bodies are vital ecological assets that require consistent care and protection. He noted that unchecked pollution and negligence can severely impact these resources and therefore, community participation is indispensable. To ensure sustained monitoring and upkeep, he announced that a local committee will be constituted in coordination with residents to oversee sanitation efforts and prevent future contamination.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Devansh Yadav underscored that raising public awareness is central to the success of such initiatives. He appealed to the citizens to refrain from disposing garbage, plastic and other waste materials into ponds, drains and open spaces.
Locals expressed their support for continued cleanliness and conservation efforts for the pond.
JMC launches intensive pond cleaning drive at Bantalab
BJP blames NC for ‘manufactured mistrust’ in J&K
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 3: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today accused the National Conference (NC) of deliberately fostering “manufactured mistrust” in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging it eroded democratic credibility and contributed to the rise of terrorism in the region.
Responding to recent remarks by Dr Farooq Abdullah, BJP J&K spokesperson Danish Bhat said the trust deficit “was not organic” but consciously cultivated by the NC leadership to retain political control and evade accountability.
He identified the 1987 Assembly elections as a turning point, alleging that “widely acknowledged” electoral manipulation involving the NC, backed by the Indian National Congress, undermined democratic institutions.
According to Bhat, the erosion of public faith in the aftermath created conditions for the emergence of terrorism, with civilians bearing the brunt of prolonged violence and instability.
The BJP spokesperson also accused the NC of repeated ideological shifts, citing its abandonment of the Plebiscite Front after attaining power and its subsequent dismissal as “Siyasi Awaragardi.”
He said such reversals reflect a pattern of mobilising public sentiment for political gain and discarding it thereafter.
Bhat further alleged that the party promoted a narrative of political distance between Kashmir and New Delhi to project a single political family as the sole intermediary.
According to him, this enabled a concentration of authority while shielding corruption, unchecked wealth accumulation and preferential allocation of resources to a narrow political elite.
He said recurring cycles of unrest acted as a “political shield,” allowing those in power to avoid scrutiny even as governance deficits deepened.
Public assets and opportunities, he claimed, were cornered by a select class, while large sections of the population faced unemployment, limited economic mobility and administrative neglect.
Abdullah had earlier stated that “mistrust” between New Delhi and Kashmir was the “biggest tragedy for this nation.”
Accusing the NC of diverting attention from governance failures, Bhat said the party continues to invoke Pakistan and recycle the narrative of mistrust at a time when it is facing growing public disillusionment.
He pointed to unfulfilled promises-including free electricity, job creation, LPG support and the filling of vacant government posts-as indicators of poor delivery.
FCIK to submit white paper to PM on NCSS in J&K
* Urges Govt to probe disparities
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), will shortly submit a white paper to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the implementation of the New Central Sector Scheme (NCSS), stating that while the Government of India conceived the scheme to promote balanced block-level industrial growth across Jammu & Kashmir, its implementation by the Industries and Commerce Department and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has resulted in lopsided growth that largely reinforces pre-existing industrial geography.
Copies of the white paper will also be submitted to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the Advisory Committee of the FCIK, chaired by Shahid Kamili and attended by presidents of industrial estate associations, district representatives and sectoral bodies from across the Kashmir Valley. The meeting reviewed the recent rejoinder issued by the Industries and Commerce Department in response to a series of reports in a local daily, highlighting the distress of existing industry and questioning official claims of ease of doing business in Jammu & Kashmir.
The Chamber stated that the Government of India had approved an incentive package of Rs 28,400 crores with a clear objective to attract investment in a balanced manner, extend industrialisation to underserved districts, and create employment opportunities at the block level. The NCSS offered a strong and well-conceived framework of capital incentives, interest support and fiscal assistance capable of transforming the industrial landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.
According to the live dashboard of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, of 2,346 applications received up to 30 September 2024, only 918 registrations were granted while 1,204 applications remain pending. On the claims side, 6,203 claims were received and 3,338 approved, but only 1,886 have been disbursed, indicating that while the scheme has attracted applications, its translation into timely industrial activity on the ground remains limited.
The members sought full public disclosure of the Rs 2,513 crore already disbursed, including the identity of beneficiaries, the quantum received by each unit, and how much of the incentive support has gone to existing enterprises as against new entrants.
The Chamber has urged the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to constitute an independent high-level committee to examine whether the implementation of NCSS has adhered to the original objective of balanced block-level development as envisaged by the Government of India.
UG admissions open in J&K after CUET removal
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 3: The Higher Education Department has announced the commencement of admissions for Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUGP) and five-year Integrated Postgraduate courses for the academic session 2026-27, following the abolition of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate admissions.
According to an official notification issued by the Directorate of Colleges, the admission process will be conducted through a centralised online system across all Government degree colleges in the Union Territory.
The admission portal jkadmissions.in will go live on May 9 at 10:00 am and remain open for registration and preference filling until May 27, 7:00 pm.
Admissions will be offered in over 60 major subjects across 142 colleges on the basis of Class 12 merit.
Subject combinations will vary by institution and will be displayed during the preference-filling process.
The first merit list is scheduled to be released on May 30, followed by admission formalities and fee submission from June 1 to June 6.
The second merit list will be published on June 9, with admissions for selected candidates to be completed between June 10 and June 15.
A spot round for vacant seats will be conducted from June 18 to June 25.
Classwork in winter zone colleges will begin on June 15, while summer zone colleges will commence classes from July 15.
Applicants have been asked to upload scanned copies of required documents, including Class 10 and 12 mark sheets, domicile certificate (if available), Aadhaar number, category certificate (if applicable), and recent passport-size photographs.
Each document must not exceed 1 MB in size. A non-refundable registration fee of Rs 200 has been fixed.
To facilitate the admission process, counselling and facilitation centres have been established in all colleges to assist applicants with form submission and preference selection.
Candidates have been advised to carefully review the detailed admission notification and registration manual available on the official website before applying.
For the 2026-27 academic session, admissions to undergraduate programmes will be based entirely on Class 12 examination results, replacing the earlier CUET-based system across all Government degree colleges in J&K.3
Bhalla slams price hike, says post-poll steps burden public
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: Continuing his party’s outreach programme to connect with the grassroots and address public concerns, Raman Bhalla, working president of the JKPCC, organized an impressive public meeting at Channi Rama near Malik Market here today.
Addressing the gathering, Bhalla reiterated his commitment to taking up the concerns of the people with the concerned authorities and ensuring that their voices are effectively represented at appropriate forums. He emphasized that such outreach programmes are essential to understand the ground realities and bridge the gap between the public and the administration.
During the interaction, residents raised issues related to inadequate civic amenities, including irregular water supply, poor sanitation, damaged roads, unemployment, rising prices, and lack of adequate healthcare and educational facilities. Special concern was expressed over the need for better infrastructure development and timely redressal of grievances at the grassroots level.
Highlighting the broader perspective, Bhalla stressed the importance of addressing the issues of all sections of society across Jammu and Kashmir. He underscored that inclusive Governance must take into account the challenges faced by youth, women, daily wage workers, traders, farmers, and marginalized communities.
Bhalla expressed serious concern over the rising inflation and increasing financial burden on households, particularly pointing to the recent hike in LPG cylinder prices. He alleged that such decisions, taken immediately after the conclusion of elections in several states, have exposed what he termed as the “anti-people approach” of the BJP-led government. Bhalla said that the continuous rise in prices of essential commodities, fuel, and cooking gas has severely impacted the daily lives of middle-class families, labourers, and economically weaker sections.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included- Kamal Singh (Ex-Corporator), Jatinder Singh Chib, Raj Kumar, Bashir Ahmed, Diwan Chand, Gagan Bral, Gopal Kumar, Nazir Ahmed, Ravi Kumar, Hukam Chand, Gurpreet Singh and Pankaj Bhagat.
Sethi re-elected JKOPA prez
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: Pankaj Sethi has been re-elected as president of the J&K Offset Printers’ Association (JKOPA) for the 2026-2028 biennial term.
The election took place during the Association’s 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held today, witnessing a significant turnout of local unit owners.
The proceedings commenced with general secretary Sanjay K Soni presenting the minutes of the 15th AGM, which were unanimously approved by the house. Finance secretary Kukooji Bhan subsequently presented the annual accounts of the association maintained under Sethi’s leadership.
The democratic process was overseen by election commissioner Satish C Jandiyal, assisted by senior members Arun Gupta and Rakesh Mehta during the second session.
The new executive body (2026-2028) comprised president Pankaj Sethi, senior vice president Rahul Mahajan, vice-president Avnish Anand, general secretary Sanjay K Soni, secretary Rajneesh Kaushal, finance secretary Kukooji Bhan and joint secretary Nishant Chadha.
Founder president Ravi Gupta, immediate past president Sudesh Gupta, and senior members Girish Kapoor, Vipan Gupta, Sharat Sharma, Kailash Dewan and Bharat Singh were present on the occasion.
The newly elected team is expected to prioritize strategic dialogues with the MSME department and educational institutions to safeguard the interests of local printers amidst fluctuating global raw material costs and evolving procurement policies.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Avnish Anand, who urged members to remain steadfast in their collective commitment to the industry.
T R Sumbadia’s book ‘Hirkhi Phuhaaran’ hits stalls
Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, May 3: T.R. Sumbadia’s book “Hirkhi Phuhaaran”, was formally released at a simple but impressive function organised by “Sab Ras Sahitya Sangam”, Kathua here, today. The event witnessed the presence of a large number of literature lovers, intellectuals, and distinguished personalities. The event was presided over by Kartar Verma (president, Vishwakarma Temple Kathua), while Dr. Bharat Bhushan (MLA, Kathua) graced the occasion as the chief guest.
The book reflects regional literature and culture, and was widely appreciated by all the dignitaries present.
On this occasion, Sahitya Akademi Award recipient Thakur Khajoor Singh was specially honoured for his outstanding contribution to literature. Speakers praised his literary achievements and described him as a pride of the region. It was also highlighted that a similar prestigious honour in the Dogri language had earlier been conferred upon Vijay Sharma in the year 2019.
The speakers emphasized the importance of literature, the richness of language, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Special focus was laid on the promotion of the Dogri language. A strong message was conveyed to inspire the younger generation, encouraging them to gain knowledge of their mother tongue, Dogri, along with Hindi and English.
In his address, chief guest, Dr. Bharat Bhushan stated that such events promote positive thinking and creativity in society. Presiding over the function, Kartar Verma described writers as the mirror of society and acknowledged their invaluable contribution. Other distinguished guests also appreciated the creative work of T.R. Sumbadia and termed “Hirkhi Phuhaaran” an important addition to the literary world.
The event was attended by several writers, social activists, youth, and local citizens in large numbers. The special guests included: Dr. Lekh Raj (president, Disha Sahitya Manch, Sujanpur, Punjab), Sushil Kumar Gupta (senior advocate and Social Worker), Dr. Usha Monga (president, Triveni Kala Kunj, Kathua) The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the organizers, who also expressed their commitment to continue organizing such literary events in the future.
Akhnoor-Sunderbani road needs urgent repair: Ex-MLC
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: Expressing serious concern over the dilapidated condition of road stretch between Akhnoor and Sunderbani, former MLC and chief spokesperson of JKPCC, Ravinder Sharma has demanded the urgent repairs and filling of potholes on war-footing.
In a statement, Sharma said that the condition of this alternate highway via Mugal Road and only link between Jammu to Poonch is in worst condition especially between Akhnoor to Sunderbani, due to construction of tunnels and approach roads at two places. The entire stretch is broken, badly damaged at multiple places with potholes causing risk of accidents and huge damage to the plying vehicles.
The condition of the road is worst for the past more than couple of years but the authorities are criminally negligent and the ruling BJP representatives are totally silent over the hardships being faced by the lakhs of people.
The BRO authorities are responsible for the hardships being faced by the people who are facing risk of accidents due to poor condition of road. He urged the civil administration to book the BRO authorities under law for sheer negligence to maintain the important road, putting the lives of people to great risks.
Ravinder Sharma wrote a letter to Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Romesh Kumar seeking his urgent intervention to save the lives of people and vehicles from getting damaged on daily basis, causing huge loss to the people. He also pointed out some technical flaws in the construction of road from Bhambla to Rajal in Nowshera making the road accident prone.
2 drug peddlers arrested
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 3: The police arrested two drug peddlers in separate operations in Budgam and Shopian and recovering contraband substances from their possession.
In Budgam, a police party from Police Station Khag intercepted a suspicious individual near Sugen crossing and apprehended him. He was identified as Fairoz Ahmed Sheikh, son of Abdul Ahad Sheikh, a resident of Sugen Khag.
During the search, police recovered a charas, concealed in corn husk from his possession.
In a separate action in Shopian, police arrested another suspected drug peddler during routine naka at Baskuchan crossing.
The accused, identified as Ghulam Hyder Khan, son of Ghulam Mohd Khan, a resident of Wachohallan, Imamsahib, was found in possession of around 60 grams of charas.
Police said cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at the respective police stations, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the contraband and to uncover wider linkages.
GBEA opens offices in Jammu, Srinagar
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 3: Gujjar Bakerwal Employees Association (GBEA) has established its head offices and guest houses in both Jammu and Srinagar under the leadership of UT president Ch Mohd Asad Noomani,.
The Jammu Head office and Guest House at Bathindi was inaugurated during a function by Surinder Kumar (MLA Marh), Iftikhar Hussain (MLA Rajouri), SSP Shamsheer Hussain and SSP Mehmood Choudhary, who jointly cut the ribbon.
Addressing the gathering, Surinder Kumar said offices in Jammu and Srinagar would help employees from remote areas by providing easier access and assistance.
Iftikhar Hussain said such offices would act as contact points for people from far-flung areas during times of need. Referring to reservation in promotions, he said the issue had already been raised in the Assembly.
Shamsheer Hussain said the association under the leadership of Asad Noomani had been working consistently over the years. He stressed the need for promoting education in remote areas and asked members to continue their efforts.
Mehmood Choudhary called upon the association to focus on students from underprivileged backgrounds and support deserving children for a better future.
District president Reasi Ch Mukhtar Awan and District president Udhampur Ch Mohd Latief also spoke on the occasion. UT Body member Mohd Nazir, Provincial body member Principal Riyaz Choudhary and Gulzar Hussain also shared their views.
From the Women’s wing, Provincial president Kalsoom Choudhary and District president Suriya Andleeb highlighted the association’s progress. UT Member Shafiq Chouhan also addressed the gathering.
In his concluding remarks, Ch Mohd Asad Noomani said more progressive steps would be taken to strengthen the organization and provide a stronger platform for employees.
Among those present were Mohd Araf, Ghulam Mustafa, Abrar Ahmed, Mohd Ayouab, Sajid Hussain, Mohd Saleem, Mohd Akram, Miser Din, Mohd Ashraf, Tanveer Ahmed, Shahid Nisar, Naveed Anjum Bhatti, Wali Mohd, Nissar Choudhary, Khurshid Mohd, Mohd Asid, Gulsher Ahmed, Nazir Ahmed, Shakoor Ahmed, Gulzar Hussain and Razia Banoo.