Stresses on improving Credit Score & faster approvals under JKCIP

BUDGAM, JANUARY 30: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) in Budgam district.

The meeting focused on department-wise achievements, application approvals, unit establishment, fund utilisation, and measures to improve credit score and enhance approval rates under the J&K Credit Incentive Programme (JKCIP).

The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Budgam, Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO), Chief Horticulture Officer (CHO), Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO), Chief Sheep Husbandry Officer (CSHO), besides other concerned district and sectoral officers.

During the meeting, the DC stressed upon strengthening coordination between line departments, banks and implementing agencies to ensure timely sanction of cases, improvement in beneficiaries’ creditworthiness and faster credit linkage under JKCIP.

He emphasized that special focus must be laid on pending and rejected cases, so that genuine beneficiaries are facilitated after removal of deficiencies.

In meeting the chair was apprised that the district received a total of 41432 applications under HADP, out of which 27,569 applications were approved at DLO level and 26,416 at CIC level.

During the current financial year 2025–26, 5,800 units were established, taking the cumulative total to 12,457 units, while 7,086 units are being tracked on the OTA platform.

It was informed that an amount of ₹1,723.865 Lakh has been released under HADP so far, of which ₹1,115.887 Lakh has been utilised and ₹266.191 Lakh booked as expenditure, achieving an overall expenditure of 80.17%.

The chair was also apprised that Agriculture Department has received 26,786 applications, with 16,803 approvals at both DLO and CIC levels. During 2025–26, 3507 units were established, taking cumulative units to 7,855, while 4,158 units are tracked on OTA. Against ₹796.42 lakh released, ₹565.1 lakh was utilised and ₹151.29 lakh booked, achieving 90% expenditure.

Likewise, Animal Husbandry Department received 6,790 applications, with 5,173 approvals at DLO level and 4,653 at CIC level. 1,618 units were established during the year, raising cumulative units to 3,227, with 1,901 units tracked on OTA. The department achieved 78.88% expenditure, utilising ₹203.562 lakh out of ₹327.84 lakh released.

Similarly, the meeting was informed that Fisheries Department received 234 applications, with 115 approvals at DLO level and 107 at CIC level. 22 units were established in 2025–26, taking cumulative units to 54, with 31 units tracked on OTA. Against ₹98.6 lakh released, ₹63.8 lakh was utilised, achieving 75.35% expenditure.

Further, Horticulture Department received 4,584 applications, out of which 3,455 were approved at DLO level and 3,080 at CIC level. 113 units were established during the year, taking cumulative units to 638, with 482 units tracked on OTA. Funds released amount to ₹258.98 lakh, with ₹100.785 lakh utilised, achieving 53.36% expenditure.

Meanwhile, Horticulture Planning & Marketing recorded 206 applications, with 52 approvals at DLO level and 44 at CIC level. 10 units were established in 2025–26, taking cumulative units to 22, with 16 units tracked on OTA. The department achieved 81.71% expenditure, utilising ₹71.5 lakh out of ₹87.5 lakh released.

Regarding Sericulture Department, it was informed that the department has received 232 applications, with 153 approvals at both DLO and CIC levels. 40 units were established during the year, taking cumulative units to 79, with 77 units tracked on OTA. Against ₹9.025 lakh released, ₹8.23 lakh was utilised, achieving 98.83% expenditure.

Likewise, Sheep Husbandry Department recorded 2,600 applications, with 1,818 approvals at DLO level and 1,576 approvals at CIC level. During 2025–26, 490 units were established, taking cumulative units to 582, with 421 units tracked on OTA.

The DC directed all concerned departments to accelerate unit establishment, ensure maximum saturation of eligible beneficiaries, and improve credit linkage under JKCIP.

He emphasized quality monitoring, transparency, and real-time tracking of units on the OTA (online tracking application) platform, while ensuring optimal utilisation of funds to realize the intended socio-economic objectives of HADP in Budgam district.

Focus on application disposal, bank sanctions and subsidy disbursement

BUDGAM, JANUARY 30: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, today chaired a detailed review meeting to assess the progress of Mission YUVA in the district.

The meeting involved a comprehensive review of applications processed under the mission at various stages, including submission, verification, approvals, bank sanctions, disbursements and subsidy release.

During the meeting, the DC reviewed the latest status of applications as reflected on the Mission YUVA dashboard.

It was informed that a total of 4051 applications have been submitted so far, out of which 3297 applications have been verified by SBDUs, while 701 applications are pending at the SBDU level. The District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) has approved 2831 applications, whereas only 2 applications have been rejected and sent back to SBDUs.

The review further revealed that 860 cases have been sanctioned by banks, while 757 cases have already been disbursed. It was also informed that 31 beneficiaries have received subsidy under the first tranche, while no case has yet reached the second tranche stage. Additionally, 117 applications have been rejected by the Director Employment.

The DC emphasized the need to minimize pendency at all levels and directed the concerned officers to ensure timely processing of cases.

He stressed upon strengthening coordination between SBDUs, banks and line departments to expedite sanctioning and disbursement of loans and to facilitate early release of subsidies to the beneficiaries.

The DC underscored that Mission YUVA is a key initiative aimed at promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth.

He directed all SDMs to closely monitor progress in their respective sub-divisions and ensure prompt verification and forwarding of applications.

Banks were instructed to adopt a proactive approach in sanctioning and disbursing cases, while the Industries Department and Employment Department were asked to provide necessary handholding and technical support to the beneficiaries.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Planning Officer Budgam, all Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Deputy Director Employment & Counselling , along with representatives from banks and Industries.

Gulmarg Hits 100% Occupancy as Sonamarg Sees Record Footfall

TAUSEEF AHMAD

SRINAGAR, Jan 30: The season’s first major snowfall has ushered in a tourism boom across Kashmir, transforming the Valley into a pristine winter wonderland and triggering a sharp surge in visitor arrivals. Popular tourist destinations, particularly Gulmarg and Sonamarg, have witnessed an unprecedented rush, with hotel occupancy in Gulmarg touching a full 100 percent and Sonamarg nearing 70 percent, officials said on Thursday.

Fresh layers of snow blanketing meadows, forests and mountains have drawn tourists from across the country, including Gujarat, Punjab, Maharashtra, Delhi and several southern states. Many visitors are arriving specifically to experience Kashmir’s famed winter offerings such as skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking and the iconic Gulmarg gondola ride, one of the highest cable cars in the world.

Tourism department figures reveal a strong start to the winter season. Sonamarg alone recorded more than 87,000 visitors between January 1 and January 27, including over 77,000 domestic tourists and more than 1,200 foreign travellers. Officials said the numbers indicate one of the most promising winter tourism spells in recent years, reflecting growing confidence among travellers.

“After the snowfall, hotel occupancy in Gulmarg has reached 100 percent. Tourists are pouring in from every corner of the country, especially for winter sports,” an official of the Gulmarg Development Authority said. The official, however, urged visitors to strictly adhere to safety advisories, cautioning against venturing outside designated ski tracks due to the risk of avalanches in certain zones.

Tourists have been effusive in their praise for the Valley’s winter charm. “There is no comparison with Gulmarg. The slopes, the gondola ride and the warmth of the local people make it truly feel like heaven on earth,” said Khushboo, a skier from Gujarat, while speaking to Kashmir Despatch.

Improved connectivity has played a crucial role in sustaining tourist inflow despite harsh winter conditions. With snowfall often disrupting road and air traffic, the Vande Bharat Express connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country has emerged as a vital lifeline, enabling tourists to reach the Valley even during adverse weather.

Tour operators and hoteliers say the rail service has significantly reduced cancellations and boosted traveller confidence. “Earlier, heavy snowfall meant isolation and uncertainty. Now, the Vande Bharat train has ensured a steady flow of tourists even during peak winter,” said a Srinagar-based hotelier.

Highlighting the government’s efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Shah said the region has rapidly emerged as one of India’s premier winter destinations. “We have installed Asia’s longest drag lift, revived the historic golf course, upgraded sanitation facilities, inaugurated a convention centre and improved road and rail connectivity,” he said.

Shah noted that tourism is the backbone of the local economy, supporting the livelihoods of nearly 70 percent of residents in upper Tangmarg and Gulmarg. “From tourist guides and hotel staff to transporters, ponywalas and snow-scooter operators, thousands of families depend directly on tourism,” he said.

Emphasising sustainable development, the MLA said steps are being taken to reduce environmental stress on Gulmarg. “There are only around 800 hotel rooms in Gulmarg. To prevent ecological damage, we are developing tourism infrastructure in surrounding areas of Tangmarg. Additionally, around 80,000 trees have been planted this year to safeguard our fragile ecosystem,” he added.

Meanwhile, authorities have cautioned tourists to remain vigilant after a minor avalanche was reported recently, though no casualties were recorded. Tourism stakeholders have also raised concerns regarding sporadic power outages and the need for consistent road maintenance during snowfall.

Despite these challenges, officials remain optimistic. “The early surge in tourist arrivals, improved connectivity and focused promotion indicate a strong revival of winter tourism in Kashmir,” a senior tourism department official said, expressing hope that the season will continue to draw visitors in large numbers.

Srinagar, Jan 30: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a new programme, B.Sc. Fabric and Apparel Design, under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme from the year 2026. The programme aims to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to fabric production, apparel manufacturing processes, garment construction, quality control, supply chain management and product development, with a focus on textile science and fashion design.

Director, IGNOU, Regional Centre Srinagar, Dr. A.H. Rizvi said that the programme follows the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 guidelines, offering a flexible and multidisciplinary approach to fashion education.

The course has been structured to equip learners with industry-relevant technical expertise and an understanding of manufacturing processes specific to the fabric and apparel sector, including the clothing and boutique industry.

The programme is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), placing it at par with regular university degrees and making graduates eligible for both government and private sector jobs globally, Dr. Rizvi added.

The programme offers wide employment opportunities as Textile/Fabric Designer, Fashion Designer, Apparel Pattern Maker/Technical Designer, Fashion Illustrator, Fashion Merchandiser, Visual Merchandiser, and Fashion Educator/Trainer, besides opportunities in entrepreneurship and start-ups.

The programme will be on offer from the January 2026 admission cycle, which is presently ongoing. Eligible students interested in seeking admission to this programme can apply online through the admission portal of the university.

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, Jan 30: In a significant judgment highlighting perseverance and faith in the judicial system, the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal (MACT), Srinagar, has awarded substantial compensation to the victims of a road traffic accident that occurred almost ten years ago. The relief came after sustained legal efforts and effective representation by young Jammu and Kashmir High Court advocate, Advocate Saleem Yousuf, who successfully pursued the case on behalf of the injured family.

According to sources, the accident took place on December 5, 2015, when a family from Sopore was travelling on the Srinagar–Baramulla National Highway. Near the Mirgund area, their vehicle met with a serious road traffic accident due to the negligence of an offending vehicle. The incident left several members of the family grievously injured, including three minor children, while one family member suffered permanent disability, altering the course of their lives forever.

In the aftermath of the accident, the family was pushed into prolonged medical treatment, mounting expenses and loss of livelihood. Seeking compensation and justice, the victims filed a claim petition before the Hon’ble Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal, Srinagar, on March 4, 2016, through their counsel, Advocate Saleem Yousuf.

The case remained under adjudication for several years, during which Advocate Yousuf meticulously pursued the matter, presented documentary evidence, and examined medical records to establish the severity of injuries and the long-term impact on the victims’ lives. Through consistent legal efforts, he successfully proved the negligence of the offending vehicle and firmly established the liability of the insurance company.

After carefully examining all material on record — including medical reports, treatment history, and the disability certificate of the injured petitioner — the Presiding Officer of the MACT, Srinagar, Shri Fayaz Ahmad Qureshi, delivered a well-reasoned and comprehensive 45-page judgment.

In his order, the Tribunal directed the respondent, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, to pay a total compensation of Rs 54,10,500 to the victims, along with applicable interest, and mandated that the amount be deposited within 30 days.

The judgment has been widely welcomed by the victims and residents of the area, who expressed satisfaction over the delivery of justice after a prolonged wait of nearly a decade. Locals termed the verdict as a reminder that perseverance and faith in the legal system can ultimately yield results, even after years of hardship.

The victims were represented by Advocate Saleem Yousuf, while the insurance company was defended by Advocate Tariq Malik.

The verdict stands as a significant example of judicial accountability and a ray of hope for accident victims awaiting justice across the region.

Srinagar, Jan 30 : A fresh western disturbance is expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir on February 1 and 2, bringing light to moderate rain and snowfall to scattered and fairly widespread areas of the Union Territory.

A senior official at the Meteorological Department in Srinagar  that the higher reaches are likely to receive moderate snowfall with fresh accumulation.

The department stated that the weather is expected to remain largely dry until January 31, with conditions turning cloudy by the evening. Following the passage of the weather system, an improvement is forecast from February 3, with partly cloudy skies likely from February 3 to February 6.

In light of the forecast, authorities have issued an advisory urging travellers and transporters to exercise caution. They have been advised to check with traffic authorities regarding road and highway conditions before undertaking journeys, particularly on mountain routes and inter-district roads.

Residents in snow-bound and high-altitude areas have been cautioned against venturing into slippery and avalanche-prone zones during the snowfall period, the official said.

He told KNS that adhering to the advisories is crucial to avoid inconvenience and ensure public safety during the anticipated change in weather conditions. (KNS)