Kashmir Despatch

NHM Employees Protest Across Kashmir, Health Services Affected

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April 1, 2026

NHM Employees Protest Across Kashmir, Health Services Affected

Tauseef Ahmad

Srinagar, Apr 1: National Health Mission (NHM) employees on Wednesday staged protests across Kashmir, demanding job security, social security benefits and pay revision, with the agitation affecting health services in several districts of the Valley.

The protesting employees assembled at various district headquarters and health institutions, raising slogans in support of their long-pending demands. They said NHM workers have been serving in the health sector for years under uncertain conditions, without a clear policy for regularisation or adequate social security cover.

“We are demanding job security, social security and pay revision. While other government employees are talking about the 8th Pay Commission, NHM employees are still struggling for basic job security and a proper policy,” said Dr Shahnaz Gul, district president of the NHM Employees Association Bandipora.

In Srinagar, an NHM employee said the issue was not limited to one district but concerned thousands of workers across Jammu and Kashmir. “NHM employees have been working on the frontlines for years, but there is still no job security or social protection for us. The government must frame a clear policy and address our demands at the earliest,” the employee said.

Another protester, Dr Imtiyaz, said NHM staff have played a vital role in strengthening healthcare services but continue to face neglect. “Despite years of service, we are still working without security and benefits. Our genuine demands must be addressed without further delay,” he said.

Pertinently, NHM employees had earlier announced a 48-hour strike from April 1 to press for their demands. The ongoing protest affected healthcare services in several parts of Kashmir, disrupting routine patient care at multiple health institutions.

Terrorist Killed in Ongoing Operation in Ganderbal’s Arhama Forests

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April 1, 2026

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Terrorist Killed in Ongoing Operation in Ganderbal’s Arhama Forests

Towseef Wani

Ganderbal, Apr 1: An unidentified terrorist was killed in an ongoing anti-militancy operation in the Arhama forest area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Wednesday morning, officials said.

The encounter, which began late Tuesday night, continued into the early hours of Wednesday as security forces tightened the cordon around the forest area following intermittent exchange of fire.

According to officials, the operation was launched after specific inputs about the presence of militants in the area. During the night, security forces tactically reorganised the cordon while maintaining pressure on the hiding militants.

In a post on X, the Army’s Chinar Corps said, “During the night of 31 Mar 26, the cordon was tactically reorganised amidst the intermittent firing underway. Own troops effectively retaliated with calibrated response resulting in one terrorist eliminated. Operation is in progress.”

The identity and group affiliation of the slain militant were not immediately known.

Officials said the operation was still underway in the forest belt, and searches were continuing to ascertain whether more militants were present in the area.

Decades of Service, Denial of Justice: Land Acquisition Railway Collectorate Employees Await Govt Intervention as Fresh Details Highlight Long Struggle

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April 1, 2026

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Decades of Service, Denial of Justice: Land Acquisition Railway Collectorate Employees Await Govt Intervention as Fresh Details Highlight Long Struggle

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, Apr 1: The story of the employees engaged in the Land Acquisition Railway Collectorate, Srinagar, is not merely an administrative dispute—it is a deeply human saga of endurance, sacrifice, and an unyielding pursuit of justice that has stretched over nearly three decades.

Fresh details emerging from their original representation further underscore the depth of their struggle, revealing how both the initial appointees and those engaged later have been bound together by a shared experience of neglect and uncertainty.
The genesis of the issue dates back to 1997, when the Qazigund–Baramulla Railway Project—one of the most ambitious infrastructure initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir—was set into motion. Recognising the need for a dedicated administrative mechanism to facilitate land acquisition and allied processes, the government established a special Railway Collectorate in Srinagar. A high-level meeting held on October 12, 1997, under the chairmanship of the then Revenue Minister, laid the foundation for this setup, with a decision to engage a bare minimum staff to operationalise the office in its infancy.

Accordingly, the first set of employees was engaged on a consolidated basis.

These included Showkat Ahmad War and Shuban Ji Labroo as Junior Assistant-cum-Typists, Javid Ahmad Wani as Runner, Manzoor Ahmad Dar as Orderly, and Gulzar Ahmad Malik as Driver. These individuals formed the backbone of the Collectorate at a time when the railway project was still a distant dream and administrative groundwork was crucial for its progress.

As years passed and the magnitude of work expanded significantly, these employees were eventually brought under proper grades and were granted annual increment benefits, offering a semblance of recognition for their services. However, even this step fell short of full regularisation, leaving their employment status in a state of ambiguity.
With the expansion of the project and the increasing administrative workload, more staff was required. In this backdrop, additional employees were engaged in the Railway Collectorate, Srinagar, pursuant to a decision taken by a high-level apex committee headed by the then Chief Secretary of the state. These subsequent appointees were placed in the time scale of the posts, and over time, the number of employees facing similar service-related issues rose to nine.

What makes their contribution particularly noteworthy is the challenging environment in which they worked. At a time when connectivity in the Valley was severely disrupted—roads were dug up, bridges were blasted, and basic infrastructure was in disarray—the idea of a functional railway system in Kashmir seemed almost unimaginable. Yet, these employees continued to discharge their duties under such hostile conditions, playing a crucial role in laying the administrative foundation for what would eventually become a transformative project for the region.
Despite their unwavering commitment, their services were never formally regularised. The years that followed were marked by persistent efforts on their part to seek justice. Their representation recounts how they were “dragged from one corner to another” by the authorities without any tangible outcome, reflecting the deep-rooted inertia within the system.

A significant breakthrough appeared to come with the Division Bench judgment of the Hon’ble High Court of Jammu and Kashmir dated October 22, 2024, in WP (C) No. 1812/2022 titled UT of J&K & others vs Showkat Ahmad War & others. The court, while taking into account the peculiar circumstances of their engagement, their long years of service, and the difficult conditions under which they worked, directed the Cabinet of the Union Territory to consider granting relaxation in rules—a power that squarely falls within the domain of the Cabinet.

For the employees, this judgment rekindled hope after decades of struggle.

It acknowledged not just their legal claim, but also the extraordinary circumstances under which they had served. However, that hope was short-lived.

In a development that has caused widespread disappointment among the affected families, the Cabinet, on March 13, 2026, under E-office file No. 115405, took a decision that the employees have termed as unjust and contrary to the spirit of the High Court’s directions.

According to them, the decision appears to have been taken on the advice of the bureaucratic setup, overlooking both the court’s observations and the humanitarian aspects of the case.

The impact of this decision has been profound. For nearly 28 years, these employees and their families have lived in a state of uncertainty, deprived of the financial security and social recognition that regular government service provides.

The lack of stability has affected every aspect of their lives—from their children’s education to healthcare and overall livelihood—leaving them in a vulnerable position as they approach the latter stages of their careers.

For those employees who were engaged later, the sense of injustice is equally intense. Despite being appointed at different stages, they have worked alongside the initial appointees, sharing the same responsibilities and challenges. Their inclusion in this prolonged struggle highlights the collective nature of the issue, where an entire group of employees has been denied its due despite decades of service.

In their latest representation dated March 30, 2026, the employees have made a heartfelt appeal to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to recall and review the March 13 Cabinet decision. They have stressed that such a move is essential not only to ensure compliance with the High Court’s judgment but also to deliver long-overdue justice to employees who have dedicated their lives to public service.

As the matter gains attention, it raises fundamental questions about governance, accountability, and the treatment of long-serving employees.

The government now stands at a crucial juncture—whether to uphold the principles of justice and compassion or to allow a decades-old grievance to persist.

For these nine employees and their families, the wait has already been too long.

Their story is a reminder that behind every administrative file are real lives, real struggles, and an enduring hope that justice, though delayed, will ultimately prevail.

PM Modi Launches ₹20,000 Crore Development Projects in North Gujarat

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March 31, 2026

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PM Modi Launches ₹20,000 Crore Development Projects in North Gujarat

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed a public gathering at Vav-Tharad in Banaskantha district, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth approximately ₹20,000 crore for North Gujarat. Noting that the sacred festival of Navratri had just concluded and that the day also marked Bhagwan Mahavir Jayanti, the Prime Minister paid his respects to Maa Ambaji and Bhagwan Shri Dharanidharji.

Sharing his delight at landing directly at the Deesa Airbase for the first time, the Prime Minister highlighted its strategic significance, given its proximity of just 130 kilometres from the international border. He pointed out that the expansion of the Deesa Airport had been stuck for decades, despite farmers having willingly given their land for the project. “It is our government that completed this work on priority,” remarked PM Modi, adding that the airport is both a developmental milestone and a major strategic asset for the nation.

Recalling his deep personal bond with the Vav-Tharad and Banaskantha region, the Prime Minister spoke of his days as an organisational worker, when he would spend extended periods in the villages of the area. He fondly recalled the bajra rotla, ghee, gaud, and sheera lovingly prepared by the mothers and sisters of the region.

Reflecting on his 25-year association with the development of this region, the Prime Minister noted that the chain of development he was fortunate to initiate as Chief Minister has continued uninterrupted, now strengthened further by the current government since 2014. Highlighting that the projects launched today span energy, roads, railways, and housing, PM Modi asserted, “These projects worth ₹20,000 crore will transform the entire picture of this area and give new momentum to life here.”

Detailing the road infrastructure projects, the Prime Minister spoke about the 4-lane highway from Idar to Vadali Bypass, the highway upgradation from Dholavira to Santalpur, and the dedication of the complete Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway corridor. He emphasised that such connectivity brings industries, investment, and opportunities in its wake. On rail connectivity, he highlighted the gauge conversion from Himmatnagar to Khedbrahma, which connects North Gujarat’s tribal areas to the national broad gauge network, and the launch of a new train service linking Khedbrahma, Himmatnagar, and Asarwa. “When villages get connected to markets, farmers to opportunities, and youth to employment, that is real development,” remarked Shri Modi.

Underlining the critical role of energy in driving industrial growth and new investment, the Prime Minister spoke about the transmission projects linked to the Khavda Renewable Energy Park, which will generate 4.5 gigawatts of electricity. Recalling that he had launched the country’s first solar park at Charanka in 2010 as Chief Minister of Gujarat, he noted that this early initiative laid the foundation for Gujarat’s current leadership in renewable energy. “The day is not far when Gujarat will emerge as a major global centre in renewable energy,” affirmed PM Modi.

The Prime Minister observed that when the world discusses India’s growth story, the ‘Gujarat Model’ is widely appreciated, as it demonstrates that infrastructure development and public welfare must go hand in hand. Noting that approximately 40,000 families received pucca houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana at today’s event, he said, “The change that a pucca house brings in a family’s life is visible on the faces of the beneficiaries ,roads and highways must be built, but the living standard of the common person must also improve,” remarked Shri Modi.

Recalling the decades of hardship that North Gujarat once endured , drought, acute water scarcity, the Prime Minister spoke of the time when women had to walk kilometres to fetch water and farmers could not get fair value for their labour. He credited the spirit of Gujarat’s people for resolving to change their destiny, and highlighted the Sujalam Sufalam scheme and the extension of Narmada waters as transformative interventions. “Today, the farmer here is no longer dependent on a single crop , Banaskantha’s emergence as a leading potato producer is an example in itself,” asserted PM Modi.

Celebrating Gujarat’s unbroken 25-year development journey, the Prime Minister noted how the state has consistently set and surpassed its own records. He recalled launching the ‘Urban Development Year’ in 2005 with a budget of ₹650 crore, which has now grown to over ₹33,000 crore. Pointing to the approval of nearly 300 proposals worth ₹2,300 crore for 9 new municipal corporations, the upgradation of 72 municipalities, and a state budget exceeding ₹4 lakh crore, he assured that development will reach every village, town, and city. “As long as your trust remains from Panchayat to Parliament, the superfast express of development will keep running at this speed,” affirmed Shri Modi.

Turning to the global situation, the Prime Minister noted that while many countries are grappling with war, instability, and soaring fuel prices, with diesel and petrol prices rising by 10 to 25 percent even in superpower nations ,India has kept the situation under control through its successful foreign policy and the unity of its people.

Recalling the nation’s united response during the COVID pandemic, the Prime Minister urged citizens to stand together during the current challenging times as well. “India has not only maintained stability while the world struggles , it is moving forward on the path of development every single day, and today’s projects are another example of this resolve,” concluded PM Modi.

Gunshots heard during search ops in Ganderbal village

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March 31, 2026

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Gunshots heard during search ops in Ganderbal village

Srinagar, Mar 31: Several gunshots were heard during a cordon and search operation in the Arham village of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening, officials said.

An official told that the security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Arham village today evening.

He said the operation was launched following a tip off about the presence of terrorists in the area.

“During searches few gunshots were heard, while the area been sealed to prevent terrorists from escaping,” he added—(KNO)

PM Modi Inaugurates Kaynes Semicon Plant in Gujarat, Calls It Key Step for India’s Semiconductor Ambitions

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March 31, 2026

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PM Modi Inaugurates Kaynes Semicon Plant in Gujarat, Calls It Key Step for India’s Semiconductor Ambitions

Vinod Bhat

Sanand (Gujarat), March 31: Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Kaynes Semicon facility at Sanand in Gujarat, describing it as a significant milestone in India’s efforts to build a strong domestic semiconductor ecosystem and move towards technological self-reliance.

Addressing the gathering at the inauguration, the Prime Minister said the new semiconductor plant would strengthen India’s position as a reliable supplier in the global semiconductor market. He said the project represents an important step in reducing dependence on imports and boosting domestic manufacturing in critical technology sectors.

Modi highlighted that the government launched the India Semiconductor Mission in 2021 to develop a robust semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in the country. He said the initiative was not merely an industrial policy but a declaration of India’s growing confidence in shaping the global technology landscape.

“The semiconductor mission reflects India’s determination to become a major hub for electronics and chip manufacturing,” the Prime Minister said, adding that such initiatives are aimed at attracting investments, strengthening supply chains and generating employment.

Emphasising the strategic importance of semiconductors, Modi said the coming decades would be defined by technological leadership. “This period of the 21st century is not just about economic competition; it is also about shaping the future technology landscape,” he said.

He added that India’s technology initiatives in the current decade would help strengthen the country’s global leadership in emerging sectors.

Army, Police Rescue 34 Students, Staff from Flash Flood-Hit School in Watergam; Swift Action Averts Tragedy

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March 31, 2026

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Army, Police Rescue 34 Students, Staff from Flash Flood-Hit School in Watergam; Swift Action Averts Tragedy

Srinagar, March 31: In a prompt and coordinated rescue operation, the Indian Army and Sopore Police on Tuesday successfully evacuated 34 students and staff members trapped inside a government school in Watergam, Rafiabad, after a sudden flash flood inundated the area following incessant rainfall.

The rescued individuals comprised 30 students and 4 teachers.

According to official sources, continuous and intense rainfall since early morning led to a sudden and significant rise in the water level of Hamli Nallah at around 11:00 AM, resulting in flash floods and inundation of adjoining areas. The Government High School (Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya), located near the Trauma Hospital in Watergam Dangiwacha, was among the worst affected, with floodwaters entering the school premises.

Students and staff residing in the hostel were left stranded as all access routes were cut off due to rapidly rising water levels. Officials described the situation as extremely critical, with strong currents posing an imminent threat to the safety of those trapped inside.

Local residents immediately alerted the nearest Army unit, seeking urgent intervention. Responding without delay, Army personnel launched a rescue operation on humanitarian grounds. Simultaneously, Sopore Police mobilized teams to the site on the directions of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sopore. Personnel from the Army’s 32 Rashtriya Rifles unit also joined the operation.

Braving inclement weather and hazardous conditions, the joint rescue teams carried out a meticulous evacuation operation, risking their lives to ensure the safety of the stranded individuals. After several hours of sustained efforts, all 34 students and staff members were successfully evacuated to safer locations without any reported injuries.

The timely and decisive intervention by the Army and police averted a potential tragedy. Local residents lauded the swift response and professionalism of the rescue teams, stating that the situation could have turned catastrophic had there been any delay.

Authorities confirmed that the situation in the area continues to be closely monitored. Residents, particularly those living near streams and nallahs, have been advised to remain vigilant and adhere to safety precautions.

Meanwhile, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina (JKAS), along with senior civil and police officials, visited the site and personally supervised the rescue operation. Speaking to UNS, the ADC stated that floodwaters had entered the school premises while students and staff were present, necessitating immediate action. He added that the coordinated efforts of the Army, police, and civil administration ensured the safe evacuation of all those trapped.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sopore, Iftikhar Talib, said that police teams were rushed to the scene immediately upon receiving information and actively participated in the rescue efforts. “By the grace of Almighty, all the children are safe,” he stated.

More than 50 lakh domestic LPG cylinders delivered daily on average since 1st March 2026

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KD Desk

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March 31, 2026

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More than 50 lakh domestic LPG cylinders delivered daily on average since 1st March 2026

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: As developments in West Asia continue to unfold, the Government of India has been proactively undertaking coordinated measures to maintain stability across critical sectors. Efforts remain focused on ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies, safeguarding maritime operations, and extending necessary support to Indian nationals in the region. The current status of these efforts is outlined below.

Energy Supply and Fuel Availability

Measures have been put in place to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country, in view of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The current position is as follows:

Crude/Refineries

· All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place. The country is also maintaining sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel.

· Domestic LPG Production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.

Retail Outlets

· All Retail outlets are operating normally across the country.

· Middle East crisis has resulted into abnormal increase in the crude prices. In order to protect consumers from this impact, the Government of India has decided to absorb a part of this burden through a reduction in excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs. 10/litre.

· Further, Govt. of India has imposed export levy of Rs 21.5 per litre on diesel and Rs 29.5 per litre on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to ensure availability of these products in the domestic market.

· Instances of Panic Buying due to rumours have been noticed in certain areas, resulting in unusually high sales and heavy crowding at Retail outlets. However, it is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country.

· The Government reiterates its advice not to believe rumours. In order to curb rumours, the State Governments have also been requested to disseminate correct information through press briefings.

Natural Gas

· Consumers have been prioritised with 100% supplies to D-PNG and CNG-Transport.

· Supplies to industrial & commercial consumers connected on grid is at 80% of their average consumption.

· City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities have also been advised by Govt. of India to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels and canteens across all their Geographical Areas, to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG.

· Supply to operating Urea plants is now steady at around 70-75% of their last 06-month average consumption. Additional LNG cargoes and Regasified LNG (RLNG) are also being sourced to maintain the supplies and pipeline hydraulics.

· All industrial consumers including fertilizer plants have been advised to provide their additional requirement on spot basis so that the same may be arranged by the Gas marketing companies.

· CGD Companies like IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL have offered incentives for taking domestic and Commercial PNG connections.

· Govt. of India has requested Govt. of States/UTs and Central Ministries to expedite approval of applications required for expansion of CGD network.

· Govt. of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 has offered all States/UTs additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG to States provided they can help in long term transition from LPG to PNG. Subsequently, MoPNG has received applications from multiple States who have taken steps towards reforms for promoting CGD network. Accordingly, additional allocation for some of the States has been recommended.

· PNGRB vide its order dated 23.03.2026 has directed all CGD entities to make all out efforts to connect residential schools & colleges, hostels, community kitchens, anganwadi kitchens etc. through PNG within 5 days, wherever pipeline infrastructure is available in near vicinity.

· Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways vide letter dated 24.03.2026 has stated that they have adopted “Accelerated Approval Framework for CGD Infrastructure with reduced timelines” as a special measure for 3 months wherein applications pertaining to CGD infrastructure shall be processed on priority.

· Govt. of India vide Gazette dated 24.03.2026 has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Order provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country, addressing delays in approvals and access to land, and enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas. It is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity, and support the transition to cleaner fuels, thereby strengthening energy security and advancing India’s gas-based economy.

· Ministry of Defence vide letter 27.03.2026 has issued a short-term policy modification, effective until June 30, 2026, to expedite the installation of PNG infrastructure in all residential areas/unit lines of defence.

· Chairperson (PNGRB) held a VC on 30.03.2026 and directed CGD entities to expedite D-PNG connections. Also, the National PNG Drive 2.0 (01.01.2026-31.03.2026) has now been extended till 30.06.2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion.

· During the month of March, more than 3.1 Lakh connections incl. domestic, commercial, hostel, mess, canteen etc. have been gasified. In addition to above, more than 2.7 Lakh new connections have been given and are being gasified.

LPG

• Supply of LPG is affected due to prevailing geopolitical situation.

Domestic LPG Supply:

• No reported dry-out at LPG distributorships.

• Online LPG cylinder bookings have increased to 92% on industry basis yesterday.

• To prevent diversion at the distributor level, Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have been increased from 53% (Feb-2026) to 83% yesterday.

• Since 1^st March 2026, on an average more than 50 Lakh domestic LPG cylinders per day have been delivered by PSU Oil Marketing Companies.

Commercial LPG supply:

• Govt. had already restored Partial Commercial LPG supply (20%) to consumers. Further, Govt. of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 had proposed to allocate additional 10% of Commercial LPG to States/UTs based on ease of doing business reforms for PNG expansion.

• Govt. of India vide letter dated 21.03.2026 has allowed another 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States, which would take overall allocation to 50% (incl. 10% allocation based on ease of doing reforms for PNG expansion). This additional 20% allocation shall be given on priority to sectors like restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by State Govt. or local bodies for food, community kitchens, 5 Kg FTL for migrant labourers.

• Govt. of India vide letter dated 27.03.2026 has decided to allocate an additional 20% for commercial LPG (this would bring the total commercial allocation to 70% of the pre-crises level incl. 10% reform based). This additional 20% allocation would be given to industries with priority to steel, automobile, textile, dye, chemicals and plastics. Among this, priority shall be given to process industries or those requiring LPG for specialised heating purposes that cannot be substituted by natural gas.

• Since 23^rd March 2026, more than 3.2 Lakh 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold to migrant labours across the country.

• More than 63,000 – 5 Kg FTL Cylinders have been sold yesterday to migrant labours.

• Most of the States/UTs have issued orders to allocate the Non-domestic LPG in line with the guidelines issued by the Govt. of India. A total of 47928 MT has been uplifted since 14^th March 2026 by commercial entities in the States/UTs.

Kerosene

· Additional allocation of 48000 KL of Kerosene over and above the regular allocation has been made to all the States/UTs.

· Govt. of India vide Gazette notification dated 29.03.2026 has facilitated distribution of PDS SKO in PDS SKO Free States/UTs for cooking and lighting purpose only –

· A maximum of two PSU OMC service stations per district (preferably Company Owned Company Operated) are permitted to store up to 5,000 litres of PDS SKO.

· These PSU OMC service stations shall be designated by the State Government or UT administration in each district.

· 17 States/UTs have issued SKO allocation orders. Further, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh has communicated that there is no SKO requirement in the State/UT.

Role of State/UTs

· Under Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000, State Govt. are empowered to act against any hoarding and black marketing. Govt. of States/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply situation of essential commodities including Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Govt. of India has reiterated the same via multiple letters and VCs to all States/UTs.

· All Chief Secretaries, ACS/Principal Secretary/Secretary Food & Civil supply of all the States/UTs are requested –

Ø To institutionalize daily press briefings at State/District level and issue regular public advisories.

Ø To setup dedicated control rooms/helplines

Ø To actively monitor and counter fake news / misinformation on social media.

Ø To intensify daily enforcement drives by District admin and to continue raids and inspections in coordination with OMCs

Ø To issue Commercial LPG allocation orders within their States/UTs

Ø To issue SKO allocation orders for additional SKO allotted to the States/UTs.

Ø To fast track CGD expansion incl. expediting RoW/RoU permissions, 24×7 work permissions etc.

Ø To promote PNG adoptions and alternate fuels.

Ø To nominate senior nodal officers for coordination with MoPNG

· Govt. of India vide letter dated 27.03.2026 has again requested Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs to conduct daily press briefs and active social media/electronics media updates to disseminate correct information and eliminate rumour mongering.

· Currently, 16 States/UTs namely Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu and Arunachal Pradesh are carrying out press briefs.

Enforcement action

· Raids continue to be carried out in many of the States/UTs to check the hoardings and black marketing of LPG. More than 3000 raids have been conducted, and more than 500 cylinders have been seized yesterday.

· PSU OMCs officials have also conducted surprise inspections at more than 1200 RO and LPG distributorships yesterday across the country to ensure smooth supplies and to check any hoardings/black marketing cases.

· PSU OMCs have issued more than 540 show cause notices to LPG distributorships till date.

Other Government Measures

· Despite this war situation, Government’s has given highest priority to Domestic LPG and PNG, along with high priority to hospitals and educational institutions.

· The Government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply.

· Alternate fuel options like Kerosene and coal have been offered to ease pressure on LPG demand.

· Ministry of Coal has already issued order to Coal India and Singareni Coallieries to allot higher quantities to States for distributing coal to small, medium and other consumers.

· States have been advised to facilitate the new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial consumers.

Public Advisory

· Govt. is making all efforts to ensure availability of Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Avoid Panic purchase of Petrol, diesel and booking of LPG.

· Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information.

· For LPG, citizens are requested to–

Ø Use Digital Mode for bookings

Ø Avoid visiting LPG distributors

· Citizens are requested to use alternate fuels like PNG, induction/electric cooktops etc.

· In the current situation, all citizens are requested to make necessary efforts to conserve energy in their daily usage.

Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations

Necessary measures have been instituted to ensure the safety and security of Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region, as informed by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. As per Ministry:

· Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to closely monitor shipping movements, port operations and safety of Indian seafarers, while ensuring continuity of maritime trade.

· All Indian seafarers in the region are safe; no incident involving Indian-flagged vessels reported in the past 24 hours.

· 18 Indian-flagged vessels with 485 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf region; DG Shipping, in coordination with ship owners, RPSL agencies and Indian Missions, is actively monitoring the situation.

· DG Shipping Control Room remains operational 24×7 and has handled 4699 calls and 9364 emails since activation; 144 calls and 290 emails received in the past 24 hours.

· DG Shipping has facilitated safe repatriation of over 959 Indian seafarers so far, including 9 in the last 24 hours.

· Port operations across India remain normal with no congestion; State Maritime Boards of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry have confirmed smooth functioning.

· Ministry continues to coordinate with Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations.

Govt firm on 25,000 recruitments in 2026, won’t rush to avoid court cases: CM Omar Abdullah

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March 31, 2026

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Govt firm on 25,000 recruitments in 2026, won’t rush to avoid court cases: CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu, Mar 31: The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that his government is fully committed to filling 25,000 vacant posts in 2026, while emphasising that the recruitment process will be transparent and time-bound.

Replying to a query from MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehman Para in the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister said the issue has been discussed multiple times during the ongoing session, including during debates on the Lieutenant Governor’s address, the state budget, and various grant demands.

“Time-bound does not mean the process should be rushed in a manner that leads to court challenges and subsequent halts,” CM Omar Abdullah said, underscoring the need for a balanced approach.

He warned against repeating past mistakes where selection lists were framed hastily, only to be challenged in courts. “In many cases, litigation dragged on for years, and applicants became overage and lost their chance for recruitment,” he added. (KNS).

Teacher Rationalisation Process Underway to Strengthen Border Education in Kashmir

Kashmir

KD Desk

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March 30, 2026

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Teacher Rationalisation Process Underway to Strengthen Border Education in Kashmir

Tauseef Ahmad

Baramulla, Mar 30: The Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani on Monday said that authorities are taking decisive steps to address the chronic shortage of teachers and inadequate school infrastructure in border areas of Kashmir valley.

Speaking with the Kashmir Despatch, Naseer Ahmad Wani, highlighted that the rationalisation process of teachers is currently underway to ensure balanced staffing across schools particularly in border areas. “Wherever we identify a surplus of teachers in some schools and a shortage in others, transfers are being arranged. This process is ongoing, and we expect the problem to be resolved soon.”

“The development of school infrastructure is a continuous process. New buildings are being constructed, additional classrooms are being added, and separate washrooms for girls are being installed. Wherever gaps exist, we strive to address them as quickly as possible,” he added.

Responding to the queries of extra fee charges in private schools, he emphasised that a fees fixation committee regulates school fees. “If any parent feels that the school is charging excessively, they can approach the committee. Our focus should be on government schools, where books, uniforms, and meals are free, and teachers provide quality education,” he said.

He further stressed that government schools offer a holistic experience beyond academics, including sports and extracurricular activities, all scheduled in the annual academic calendar. Parent-teacher meetings are also being prioritised, with all Head of Institutions instructed to conduct sessions and incorporate parental feedback.

Kashmir Despatch

Kashmir Despatch

KASHMIR DESPATCHNewspaper

Kashmir DespatchNewspaper

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Teacher Rationalisation Process Underway to Strengthen Border Education in Kashmir

Kashmir DespatchNewspaper

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