Visits LJK Store Jammu, SIBVM School Udhampur
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU/ UDHAMPUR, Apr 30: B. L. Verma, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, expressed his appreciation for the team of ‘Ladakh Jammu Kashmir Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd’ for the initiative, noting that such platforms play a crucial role in enhancing farmers’ income, encouraging entrepreneurship, and strengthening grassroots economic systems.
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He congratulated the team for their work and encouraged them to continue expanding their reach and impact.
The Minister made these remarks during his visit to the LJK Store today and reviewed its ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening livelihoods and promoting cooperative-led economic development in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
During his visit, the Minister was briefed about the LJK Store’s model as a first-of-its-kind cooperative platform in the region, working to connect farmers, artisans, and local producer groups with structured market access. He interacted with the team and observed the diverse range of products that reflect the region’s rich agricultural produce and traditional handicrafts.
Present on the occasion were Dinesh Gupta (Chairman) along with Board members Nagarmal Gupta, Bikram Singh, Darshan Choudhary, Ajay Bharti, Surinder Mohan and Alankrit Mahajan along with other members associated with the LJK Store.
The LJK Store continues to work with a focused mission of empowering farmers and local communities, while showcasing the immense product potential of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh through a cooperative-driven model.
Earlier the Minister was chief guest at Sant Ishwar Bhartiya Vidya Mandir (SIBVM) Higher Secondary School, Udhampur (Nainsu), which celebrated its Foundation Day with great enthusiasm, cultural dignity, and patriotic spirit in the school campus.
The occasion was further dignified by the presence of distinguished guests including Kapil Khanna, Chairman, Sant Ishwar Shiksha Samiti Jammu Kashmir, Surinder Mohan Gupta, Trustee, Sant Ishwar Shiksha Samiti Jammu, Bharti Khanna, Trustee Member, Sant Ishwar Shiksha Samiti and Vrinda Khanna, national secretary of Sant Ishwar Foundation and a renowned social entrepreneur and public policy advisor.
Other eminent dignitaries present included R. S. Pathania (MLA, East Udhampur), Balwant Singh Mankotia (MLA, Chenani-Gordhi), and Pawan Gupta (MLA, Udhampur West), along with respected members of the Sant Ishwar Shiksha Samiti family such as Karan Kapoor, Rajinder Mehta, and Ridhima Mehta.
The programme was also graced by several other distinguished personalities, including Arun Gupta, Sunil Badyal, Vijay Gupta, Sumit Gupta, Ranjeet Singh Katoch, and Ashok Kumar, president, Scouts and Guides, district Udhampur). Bhartiya Shiksha Samiti Jammu Kashmir team members including Nek Ram Sharma, Romesh Singh Jasrotia , Narinder Singh Sambyal ,Manoj Kumar, Sangita Ji and Sameer Saproo attended the programme. Sandeep Bhagat Additional SP, Udhampur and Parlaad Sharma (DySP HQ, Udhampur) were also present.
Principal of the school Renu Sharma presented a short but impressive annual report.
The chief guest felicitated the meritorious students in recognition of their outstanding academic performance and achievements.
In his address, B. L. Verma appreciated the school’s efforts in promoting quality education in the region.
He highlighted the important role of institutions like Vidya Bharati in imparting value-based education and emphasized that true education is a balanced blend of knowledge, values, and character building. He commended the school for organizing meaningful cultural programmes that raise awareness about social issues, environmental responsibility, and patriotism.
Verma encouraged students to work hard, remain disciplined, and stay connected to India’s rich cultural heritage. He stressed that the youth are the foundation of a strong nation and inspired them to serve the country with dedication and commitment.
He also appreciated the contribution of teachers, stating that their role is not only to impart knowledge but also to shape the character and future of students. He concluded by motivating students to dream big, stay focused, and contribute positively to society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shiv Kumar Sharma, president of the School Management Committee.
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