SRINAGAR, Mar 13: The Rs 161.201 crore water supply project, aimed at providing sustainable drinking water to Srinagar, remains stalled due to the lack of financial backing, the government informed the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
The ambitious project, which involves laying, testing, and commissioning of a raw water main from Preng to Rangil, has been caught in bureaucratic and financial limbo, with no clear timeline for execution.
Responding to a query raised by MLA Batamaloo, Tariq Hameed Karra, the government acknowledged that while the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared, it is yet to be approved. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department has granted clearance, but approvals from the Forest, Wildlife, Soil Conservation, and Environment Departments are still pending.
Officials stated that without a dedicated funding mechanism, the project remains indefinitely delayed, raising serious concerns about the government’s commitment to addressing Srinagar’s growing water crisis.
Rising Water Demand, No Infrastructure Boost
Srinagar, witnessing rapid urban expansion and population growth, has been struggling with water shortages, particularly during peak summer months. Residents have expressed frustration over the government’s failure to prioritize critical water infrastructure projects.
“A project of this scale should not be stalled due to financial constraints. The government must explore all possible funding avenues, including central assistance,” said a local resident. Tauseef Ahmad, another resident, criticized successive governments for making repeated assurances without concrete action.
“Every summer, we face water shortages, yet critical projects like this remain indefinitely delayed,” lamented Irfan Rasool, a resident from downtown Srinagar.
With no funding plan in sight and crucial departmental clearances still awaited, the future of the project remains uncertain, leaving Srinagar’s residents worried about their access to clean drinking water in the coming years.
JAMMU, Mar 13: The Jammu and Kashmir government has informed the Legislative Assembly that financial liabilities amounting to ₹2504.46 crore from the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir are to be transferred to the Union Territory of Ladakh as part of the reorganization process.
In a written response to a question raised by MLA Lolab, Qaiser Jamsheed Lone, Minister in-charge, Finance, Omar Abdullah disclosed that the transfer of liabilities is in accordance with the guidelines set under notification SO-329 of the General Administration Department (GAD) issued on October 30, 2020.
“As per the apportionment process, the distribution of public debt, assets, and liabilities between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh is being executed as per the prescribed framework. A significant portion of these recommendations has already been implemented,” Abdullah informed the Assembly.
He further added that the J&K government has actively engaged with the Ladakh administration and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to ensure the smooth transfer of financial obligations.
Following the Reorganization of Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories in August 2019, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had constituted an advisory committee to oversee the equitable distribution of assets and liabilities. The committee was chaired by former Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and included senior bureaucrats Arun Goyal (retired IAS) and Giriraj Prasad (retired Indian Civil Accounts Service officer).
The process of financial separation between the two UTs has been an ongoing effort, with several discussions held between stakeholders to ensure fair distribution of debts and resources. The latest announcement in the Assembly marks a significant step in finalizing the financial division between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Jammu — The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Thursday passed grants for four departments of school education, health and medical education, social welfare, and higher education, totalling over Rs 27,526 crore.
Introduced by Minister Sakina Itoo in the House on Wednesday, the grants amount to Rs 12,014.89 crore for the School Education Department, Rs 8,813.70 crore for the Health and Medical Education Department, Rs 4,504.28 crore for the Social Welfare Department, and Rs 2,193.40 crore for the Higher Education Department, passed through a voice vote on Thursday.
The grants totalling an amount of Rs 27,526.28 crore were approved following a two-day detailed discussion in the House.
Summing up the discussion on demands for grants, Itoo, who holds charge of Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, welcomed the suggestions from legislators regarding the departments under her charge.
Itoo assured legislators that her team would carefully examine the suggestions for implementation, emphasizing efforts to resolve the issues raised during the discussion on demands for grants.
Speaking on the School Education sector, the Minister highlighted its critical role as the foundation of a nation under the visionary leadership of late Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, who prioritized education.
She expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for allocating substantial budget provisions despite financial constraints, aimed at enhancing education quality across Jammu and Kashmir.
Reflecting on the sector’s achievements, Itoo mentioned J&K’s achievement of nearly universal free education up to university level, supported by a network of 18,724 government schools and 5,517 private schools contributing to a literacy rate of 77.3 percent, close to the national average.
She laid thrust on infrastructure development under Capex Samagra, including new school buildings and additional classrooms amounting to Rs 739 crore.
She also highlighted recent initiatives such as the restoration of the November session and provisions for 600 ICT labs, 2000 smart classrooms, and 500 ATLs to promote innovation and scientific temper among students.
“For remote and migratory populations, 1859 seasonal centres are operational across J&K”, she said. The success of government school students in board and competitive exams, emphasises their significant achievements, she added.
Further initiatives include 89 KGBVs to promote female literacy among scheduled caste and scheduled tribe populations and 85 girls’ hostels sanctioned in educationally backward blocks under the Beti Anmol scheme, benefiting over 12,000 BPL girl students, she added.
Regarding the Health and Medical Education Department, Itoo highlighted its pivotal role in society’s development, noting milestones such as the establishment of a dedicated Cath lab at the government medical college in Anantnag and ongoing efforts to operationalize one at GMC at Jammu.
She also mentioned the start of BHMS courses at the government homeopathic medical college, Kathua, and plans for a 250-bed Maternal & Child Care hospital in Anantnag.
She outlined ongoing projects to strengthen health infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, including the fast-tracked construction of AIIMS Kashmir, targeted for completion by November 2025.
Discussing the social welfare department, Itoo mentioned the revision in pension amounts announced by Chief Minister for all beneficiary categories during the Budget speech 2025-26. She detailed a graded pension structure aligned with beneficiaries’ age groups, ensuring equity and sustainability. — (PTI)
Delhi: Sunil Sharma, Leader of Opposition in Jammu & Kashmir called upon Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Delhi.
Sunil Sharma deliberated with the Union Home Minister on the key issues of Jammu & Kashmir pertaining to the Security and Development, and Budget Session in J&K Legislative Assembly.
Sunil Sharma said that Jammu & Kashmir has been a region of strategic significance, and has faced numerous security and developmental challenges. He said that all these issues are deeply intertwined and require a rigorous multi-pronged approach by the Modi government.
He also discussed the issue of recent terror incidents in the region with the Union Home Minister. He requested HM Amit Shah for further increase in the road connectivity to the remote areas of region. He brought into notice various factors to facilitate the sustaining economic ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir by putting stress on the key areas like tourism, industry, and business.
He also highlighted the rise in drug abuse and narcotics trafficking in J&K, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention.
Sunil Sharma also deliberated with the Union Home Minister on the Budget session in J&K Legislative Assembly discussing the minute details of the Budget. He highlighted the key points of discussions in the sessions and the impact of the Budget on the socio-economic conditions of the residents and the ongoing development process in J&K.
After listening patiently to Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured Sunil Sharma that the peace and progress in Jammu & Kashmir will remain top priority of Modi government and every step will be taken to ensure the socio-economic elevation of its residents.
SRINAGAR, MARCH 13: In a significant move to bolster air quality in Srinagar, Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. Owais Ahmed today chaired a comprehensive review meeting, here focused on the National Clean Air Program (NCAP).
The meeting provided an in-depth review of the progress made on NCAP projects during the financial year 2024-2025. Dr. Owais commended the significant advancements achieved in improving air quality through various initiatives, while also pinpointing areas that require further attention and development.
Emphasizing the critical importance of tackling air pollution, Dr. Owais stated that clean air is not just an environmental issue; it is a public health imperative. “We must work diligently to implement our plans effectively and ensure that our community can breathe cleaner air. It is essential that we remain committed, proactive and innovative in our approach to tackling air pollution.” The Commissioner called for an accelerated pace of work and enhanced collaboration among all departments involved. He issued directives aimed at streamlining processes and fostering accountability, ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged and focused on achieving the goals of the NCAP.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment from all participants to prioritize the National Clean Air Program, reinforcing their dedication to safeguarding the environment for future generations. The SMC is resolute in its mission to create a cleaner, healthier Srinagar and will continue to monitor the progress of NCAP projects closely.
The meeting was attended by the Joint Commissioner (Adm) SMC, Joint Commissioner Works, Superintending Engineer (Drainage), the Divisional Forest Officer (SMC), and Executive Engineers from the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department, among others.
Srinagar, Mar 13 : In the holy month of Ramadan, the sale of fruits like watermelons, melons and others in Kashmir Valley has witnessed a decline of about 40 per cent due to the persistent cold weather conditions over the past twelve days.
Usually, during the month of fasting, the sales of fruits like watermelons and melons increase significantly. However, this year, the market has seen a downfall.
“This year, as Ramadan is ongoing in Kashmir Valley, the sales of watermelons, melons and other fruits have decreased by around 40 per cent due to the changing weather and continuous cold conditions,” said Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Association (KVFGDU).
He said that despite the prices of fruits and vegetables remaining low, the sales of melons, watermelons and other fruits, which usually increase during Ramadan, have remained low. He further mentioned that the valley has a sufficient stock of fruits and vegetables, but sales have been affected due to the weather conditions.
Notably, the fresh wholesale price list for fruits as of March 13, as accessed by news agency, reads as: local bananas are priced between RS: 88-92 per dozen, while premium bananas cost RS: 73-75 per dozen. Kiwi is available for RS: 30-34 per piece, and Apple Raja is priced at RS: 68-70 per kg, while Royal Apple (big size) is sold for RS: 95-100 per kg. Watermelon (Sun) ranges between RS: 60-92 per kg, while Watermelon (Bobby Zebra) is priced at RS: 93-100 per kg.
Also, Mango Safeeda costs RS: 160-170 per kg, and Dragon Fruit is available for RS: 90-100 per piece. Black Strawberry is priced at RS: 123-124 per box, while Papaya (Red Glow) costs RS: 200-215 per kg. The rates for different varieties of oranges are as follows: Orange 191 is priced at RS: 88-92 per dozen, Orange 171 at RS: 73-75 per dozen, and Orange 141 at RS: 30-34 per dozen.
Additionally, in the vegetable section, the wholesale rates are: Onion (Punjabi) is priced at RS: 15-16 per kg, while Cabbage costs RS: 10-11 per kg. Potato (Karthal) is available for RS: 23 per kg, and Potato (Nasik) for RS: 27-28 per kg. Radish (Kashmiri) is priced at RS: 15-20 per kg. Local Garlic costs RS: 16-18 per kg. Carrot (Local) is priced at RS: 18-20 per kg, while Spinach costs RS: 45-50 per kg. Ginger is priced at RS: 09-10 per kg. Cucumber (Punjabi) is available for RS: 12-15 per kg. Peas are priced between RS: 40-50 per kg, Fresh Beans cost RS: 13-15 per kg, and French Beans are priced at RS: 35-37 per kg. Squash (Local) is available for RS: 11-12 per kg, while Bottle Gourd is priced at RS: 25-30 per kg—(KNO)
Official Data Reveals 76 Active Terrorists in J&K, Majority from Pakistan
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Mar 13: With improved security measures and an enhanced security situation, government sources informed that Jammu and Kashmir now hosts the lowest number of active terrorists in recent years.
Official sources informed Kashmir Despatch that this decline follows intensified counter-terrorism initiatives aimed at preventing the region from being exploited for cross-border militant activities.
According to official data, 59 foreign terrorists—primarily from Pakistan—and 17 local militants remain operational across the Union Territory. Among the foreign operatives, 21 belong to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), 21 to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and 3 to Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). The remaining 14 foreign terrorists are affiliated with unspecified groups.
Meanwhile, official sources further stated that local militant activity is notably sparse, with only 3 homegrown terrorists active in the Jammu region and 14 in the Kashmir Valley.
Officials attribute this reduction to enhanced intelligence operations, community engagement, and stricter border controls.
Government’s Stance
Authorities emphasized that the improving law-and-order landscape in Jammu and Kashmir aligns with national priorities to foster peace and economic growth. “The dwindling terrorist numbers signal the effectiveness of our multi-pronged strategy,” a senior official stated, highlighting ongoing counter-radicalization programs and international cooperation to disrupt terror financing.
Earleir this week, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi-IPS, chaired a security review meeting with all range DIGs, District SSPs, SO to IGP Kashmir, JDP ZPHQ, SP PC Srinagar, and other senior officers.
IGP Kashmir stressed the importance of closely monitoring anti-national activities and reinforcing territorial control across all districts He urged officers to intensify area domination exercises and night patrolling in vulnerable areas to fortify the security grid.
The key discussions focused on the need for forward-thinking tactics, seamless intelligence coordination, and active public cooperation to ensure peace and security.
Srinagar, Mar 13 : Meteorological department (MeT) on Thursday issued a 3-day ‘yellow alert’ as rains and snow lashed Jammu and Kashmir for the second running day today.
Director MeT, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said that prevalent weather conditions are expected to prevail till March 16, saying that the intermittent rains and snowfall is expected at many places during the period.
However, he said that there is no forecast of any major weather activity till March 16.
The Director MeT said that intermittent spells of light to moderate rain and snow (higher reaches) are expected across J&K during the next three days.
On March 16, he said that intermittent light rain and snow is expected at few places towards morning & improvement towards afternoon, adding that generally dry weather is expected from March 17 to 24.
Moreover, the MeT asked the travellers, tourists and transporters to follow the advisories issued by the administration and traffic department.
“Farmers are advised to suspend farm operations till 16th March.
Avoid sloppy & avalanche prone areas. Landslides, mudslides and shooting stones at vulnerable spots are expected,” reads the advisory issued by the MeT—(KNO)
In a major initiative to enhance global cooperation in the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, the Government of India hosted a high-level session on WAVES 2025 today at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. The event, which was organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), sought to engage the international community ahead of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, which is set to take place in Mumbai from 1st to 4th May 2025.
Union Minister for External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & IT Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis, and Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan graced the occasion along with Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra Ms. Sujata Saunik and Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Shri Sanjay Jaju. Around 100 Ambassadors and High Commissioners were part of the event.
A key highlight of the event was the MoU exchange between the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Government of Maharashtra, strengthening collaboration in media, entertainment, and digital outreach.
Addressing the session, Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, said “The intersection of creativity, media and technology is transforming the media landscape of the world and reaching a new level of convergence. The Minister said that Creator community from all walks of life can create content of high value and is the basic concept of WAVES 2025.” We are inviting some of the biggest names of technology, media and entertainment for WAVES 2025 to be held in Mumbai from 1st May to 4th May 2025.” Elaborating various Indian efforts in global arena, The Minister also invited all the stakeholders to come together to participate in the WAVES 2025 and boost the global creator economy.
Union Minister @AshwiniVaishnaw addresses Press Conference on WAVES 2025.
Union Minister announces, A billion dollar fund will be created for creators economy.
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) March 13, 2025
In his address, Union Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said “WAVES will serve as a pivotal platform for fostering discussions, collaboration, and innovation for the Media and Entertainment industry. This event will unite industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore opportunities, address challenges, and shape the future of the sector.” The Minister said “Economic and political rebalancing is moving towards cultural balancing. We are not truly global if we are not truly local. WAVES 2025 captures the spirit of this endeavour” Union Minister Shri Jaishankar also urged the ambassadors and high commissioners to familiarise their Governments regarding the opportunities of global collaborations under WAVES 2025.”
In his special remarks, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis said “Mumbai, the financial and entertainment capital of India, serves as the perfect backdrop for WAVES 2025, seamlessly blending ancient and modern cultural influences while fostering collaboration and cultural diplomacy in the media and entertainment sector.” He added “WAVES 2025 is a movement underscoring the evolving role of media in technological advancements and social transformation. Maharashtra remains committed to fostering investment and building global partnerships that drive innovation.” Welcoming the setting up of Indian Institute of Creative Technology, Shri Fadnavis expressed hope that “media will continue to be a force for good,” shaping a future where technology and creativity converge to inspire and connect the world.”
In his closing remarks, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan said “The WAVES Summit 2025 opens the door to joint ventures, co-productions, and business expansion, enabling global media companies to engage with India’s creative sector. Union Minister of State also said “The Government of India remains steadfast in creating a conducive environment for the M&E industry, supporting ease of doing business, content localization, and infrastructure development.”
Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B in his remarks, said “WAVES is the world’s first convergence platform for the entire Media & Entertainment sector. Our goal is to bridge the gap between traditional and emerging media, build global partnerships, and utilize India’s rich cultural traditions in content creation and technological innovation.”
He further added that the first edition of WAVES is designed with multiple tracks to create a meaningful impact. The Global Media Dialogue will feature ministers and policymakers, culminating in the WAVES Declaration as a guiding policy document. The Thought Leaders Track will host knowledge-sharing sessions with industry experts. The WAVES Exhibition will showcase storytelling innovations, immersive experiences, and a gaming arena. The Bharat Pavilion will highlight India’s media heritage and future. Secretary Shri Jaju also said that the WAVES Bazaar will facilitate business networking, while the WaveXcelerator will support media startups with mentorship and funding. WAVES Culturals will feature diverse performances, blending Indian and international talent.
WAVES 2025: Media and Entertainment as a Unifying Force in the Digital Age
Recognizing the transformative power of media and entertainment, the participants of the World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) will gather in Mumbai during 1st May-4th May 2025. This historic summit will bring together global leaders, media professionals, artists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. The digital age presents both challenges and opportunities. Artificial intelligence, streaming revolutions, intellectual property rights, misinformation, and media sustainability are key concerns. As the first-ever event of its kind, WAVES 2025 will address these issues by promoting cultural diversity, innovation, and equitable access to media platforms.
The summit will uphold the highest standards of creativity, inclusivity, and responsibility in content creation and dissemination. It will emphasize the need for ethical storytelling and fair representation.
By viewing the world through the prism of harmony, WAVES 2025 aspires to inspire meaningful connections, collaborative progress, and cultural unity. This session will be a crucial step in reinforcing the media and entertainment industry’s role as the biggest unifying factor between country to country, people to people and culture to culture in the digital age. WAVES 2025 emphasizes the power of unity by focusing on shared concerns, challenges faced by humanity, shared opportunities, collaborative growth and progress. This vision positions WAVES 2025 as a global platform for harmony, fostering meaningful dialogue and action that transcend borders.
The integration of WAVES 2025 within the Orange Economy highlights its role in leveraging the media and entertainment industries for economic growth and job creation. This aligns perfectly with its mission of global harmony, as creative industries serve as powerful tools for cultural exchange and unity.
By hosting WAVES 2025 in Mumbai, the summit will provide a forum for thought leaders. They will discuss how the media industry can act as the biggest unifying factor in a rapidly changing world. The sector serves as a powerful catalyst for cultural diplomacy, bridging divides between people, cultures, and nations.
Jammu — The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday said domicile certificates have been issued to 52 non-locals based on their marriage in areas of Budgam district.
Minister for Health and Education Sakina Itoo said this while replying to a question raised by ruling National Conference (NC) member Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani.
“As many as 18,921 domicile certificates have been issued in Narbal and 26,277 in Magam”, she said.
The minister further said 62,343 domicile certificates have been issued in Beerwah, including 52 to non-locals based on marriage.
She informed the House that no non-local resident has been issued a domicile certificate in the Magam and Narbal areas of Budgam district.
The J&K government notified the grant of domicile certificate rules in May 2020, allowing non-locals under different categories to register for domicile certificates in the Union Territory, which was barred before Article 370 was abrogated on August 5, 2019.
The non-locals, according to the government, are allowed to apply for the government jobs in the UT with a 15-year condition. A number of constitutional changes have been effected with the enactment of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. — (PTI)
