JKYouth News Desk

Media House Based in Jammu and Kashmir, JKYouth Desk is a Group of Journalists operating from J&K.

Rehbar-e-Khel Teachers salary hiked by 50%

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Protest

In a pivotal decision aimed at uplifting the role of physical education in schools across Jammu and Kashmir, the Administrative Council, led by Lieutenant Governor Sh. Manoj Sinha, has granted approval for a substantial 50% salary raise for 2417 Rehbar-e-Khel (ReK) physical education teachers within the Youth Services and Sports Department.

This landmark decision, reached during a meeting attended by key officials including Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, marks a significant step towards recognizing the dedication and contribution of these educators.

The move comes following thorough deliberation and recommendation by a High Powered Committee established under the Chief Secretary’s purview in 2021, advocating strongly for the much-needed increase in honorarium for Rehbar-e-Khel teachers.

With this enhanced honorarium, the J&K administration aims not only to acknowledge the invaluable role played by physical education teachers but also to empower and incentivize them further in their efforts towards the promotion and proliferation of sports activities within schools across the Union Territory.

By investing in the professional growth and well-being of these educators, the administration underscores its unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of sports excellence and holistic education, thereby laying the foundation for a healthier and more active youth population in Jammu and Kashmir.

Government of Jammu and Kashmir Announces Administrative Transfers

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TRANSFER

In a move aimed at optimizing administrative efficiency, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a series of transfers and postings with immediate effect, as per Government Order No.716-JK(GAD) of 2024, dated February 21, 2024.

Shri. Nazir Ahmad Bhat, who served as Private Secretary and was previously under transfer orders to the J&K Special Tribunal, has been reassigned to the Office of Chief Electoral Officer, J&K. Concurrently, Shri. Ajaz Ahmad Qureshi, also a Private Secretary, has been transferred from the Office of Chief Electoral Officer, J&K to the J&K Special Tribunal.

Furthermore, Shri. Aakash Kumar, Junior Stenographer, has been transferred from the Hospitality & Protocol Department to the Transport Department, where he will work with the Administrative Secretary. Similarly, Shri. Dinesh Kumar, Junior Stenographer, previously awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been posted in the Office of Chief Electoral Officer, J&K.

In addition, Shri. Raman Kumar and Shri. Manzoor Hussain, both serving as Daftaris, have been transferred from the Agriculture Production Department and the J&K Public Service Commission, respectively, to the Office of Chief Secretary, J&K.

Lastly, Shri. Ashish Singh, who held the position of MTS, has been transferred from the General Administration Department to the J&K Public Service Commission.

All the officers and officials affected by these transfers shall be considered relieved from their previous duties as per the order issued by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

This reshuffle reflects the government’s commitment to streamline administrative operations for better service delivery and governance across various departments in the region.

For more information, please contact the General Administration Department, Civil Secretariat, Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Territory of J&K Establishes Steering Committee for Local Government Directory Standardization

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Govt of J&K

In a significant move aimed at streamlining administrative processes, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir has announced the establishment of a Union Territory Level Steering Committee. This committee is tasked with the overarching responsibility of monitoring and standardizing the Local Government Directory (LGD) codes across the region.

According to Government Order No.709-JK(GAD) of 2024, dated February 20, 2024, the committee comprises key officials including the Chief Secretary of J&K, the Financial Commissioner of Revenue, and the Commissioner/Secretary to the Government of the Housing and Urban Development Department, among others.

The terms of reference outlined for the committee include:

  1. Standardizing Local Government Directory (LGD) codes in the Union territory of J&K.
  2. Adopting LGD as the standard directory across all databases within the Union territory.
  3. Recommending policy measures for LGD implementation.

This initiative is expected to enhance efficiency in governance by ensuring uniformity and coherence in data management systems across various departments and agencies within the Union territory.

The constitution of the Union Territory Level Steering Committee underscores the administration’s commitment to modernizing and optimizing administrative processes, furthering the territory’s developmental agenda.

The announcement comes as a significant step towards achieving administrative efficiency and transparency, ultimately benefiting the residents of Jammu & Kashmir.

Outrage Over Allegedly Casteist Forest Order Issued by DFO Langate in Kupwara

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DFO Langate Casteist Letter

In a recent development, an official letter purportedly issued by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Langate in Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir has sparked controversy and allegations of casteism. The letter, bearing Forest Order No. 43 for the year 2023-24 and dated February 17, 2024, has drawn sharp criticism for its discriminatory language targeting the Shepherd Community including Gujjars, Bakerwals, and Chopans.

Social activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, among others, has condemned the contents of the letter, highlighting the insensitivity towards marginalized communities. Dr. Bhat demanded severe action against the Forest Officer responsible for issuing such an order.

DFO Langate Casteist Letter Order

The letter, addressed to the Range Officer of Mawar, cites a surprise inspection conducted at the Forest Check-post Langate, during which a forest official named Bashir Ahmad Dobhi, identified as a Forest Guard, was allegedly found wearing attire resembling that of a shepherd. The DFO, in the order, asserts that forest officials are expected to adhere to a proper dress code while on duty, particularly in sensitive postings.

Consequently, pending a departmental inquiry, Bashir Ahmad Dobhi has been placed under suspension and attached to the Range Office Rafiabad with immediate effect. The Range Officer of Mawar has been instructed to make internal arrangements to fill the gap left by the suspended official until suitable staff can be posted to the check-post.

The language and tone of the letter have raised concerns about the perpetuation of caste-based stereotypes and discrimination within government institutions. Critics argue that instead of focusing on the individual’s performance and conduct, the order appears to target and stigmatize a specific community based on their traditional attire and occupation.

As calls for accountability grow louder, many are urging authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action to address the underlying issues of discrimination and prejudice within the administration.

Efforts to reach out to the Divisional Forest Officer for comment on the matter have been ongoing, but as of now, no response has been received.

JK Govt Restores Waiting List for all Kind of Recruitments

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Govt of J&K

Administrative Council Reverses Decision, Restores Wait List Provisions for Government Recruitment

In a significant move aimed at streamlining the recruitment process and ensuring timely filling of vacancies, the Administrative Council, chaired by LG Manoj Sinha, convened on the 19th of February, 2024, to reconsider its earlier decision dated 07-09-2023. The council has approved the restoration of enabling provisions for drawing up wait lists in recruitment to public services in the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

The decision entails the withdrawal of amendments previously made to various recruitment rules, including the J&K Civil Services Decentralization and Recruitment Rules, 2010, the Appointment of Class-IV (Special Recruitment) Rules, 2020, the J&K Combined Competitive Examination Rules, 2018, and business regulations of JKPSC/JKSSB, among others. This rollback, initiated through S.O 496, S.O. 497, and S.O. 498 of 2023, extends across all departments and services ab-initio.

Moreover, the council has granted a one-time exemption to recruiting agencies, allowing them to draw up wait lists within six months for select lists issued since the previous decision. However, this exemption is contingent upon the condition that such wait lists are compiled within the validity period of the select list and that resultant vacancies due to non-joining of selected candidates have not been re-advertised.

This decision is poised to facilitate the prompt filling of vacancies, thereby averting delays in re-referral of positions, reducing the time consumed in subsequent selections, and affording candidates the opportunity to secure employment before reaching the upper-age limit.

The move underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing efficiency and transparency in the recruitment process, ultimately benefiting both aspiring candidates and the administration alike.

Govt Orders Transfers of ARTOs in Jammu and Kashmir

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TRANSFER

In accordance with Government Order No. S62-JK(GAD) of 2024 dated 31-01-2024 and Government Order No. 594 JK(GAD) of 2024 dated 12-02-2024, the services of four Junior Scale JKAS Officers have been placed at the disposal of the Transport Department. As a result, and in the interest of administration, several transfers and postings of Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) and In-charge ARTOs (I/c ARTOs) have been announced with immediate effect.

Here are the details of the transfers and postings:

  1. Samrinder Singh, Jr. Scale JKAS, previously ARTO in Ramban, is now transferred to Jammu.
  2. Sheetal Sharma, Jr. Scale JKAS, formerly ARTO in Bandipora, is awaiting further orders.
  3. Bilal Ahmad Mir and Punika Pandita, Jr. Scale JKAS officers, are also awaiting further orders.
  4. Samotra Mudassir is transferred from ARTO in Kupwara to the Flying Squad in Jammu.
  5. Showkat Ahmad moves from ARTO in Srinagar to ARTO in Kupwara.
  6. Anis Ahmed Wani shifts from ARTO in Budgam to ARTO in Srinagar.
  7. Mehnaz Chisti is transferred from ARTO in Kathua to ARTO in Anantnag.
  8. Ramesh Iqbal moves from ARTO in Samba to I/c ARTO in Reasi.
  9. Sheikh Ahmad is transferred from I/c ARTO in Udhampur to I/c ARTO in Kathua.
  10. Neeraj Sharma is awaiting orders for adjustment.
  11. Kumar Bhat is also awaiting orders for adjustment.
  12. Jugal Kishore Sharma is transferred from I/c ARTO in Shopian to look after ARTO in Reasi.
  13. Shammi Kumar is transferred from I/c ARTO in Srinagar to look after ARTO in Samba.
  14. Manzoor Jan Bhat is now I/c ARTO, presently attached to the Office of Divisional Transport Commissioner, Kashmir.

All officers are deemed to have been relieved from their previous postings with immediate effect. The orders, issued by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, aim to optimize the functioning of the Transport Department and ensure efficient administration across different regions of the state.

JK Traffic Advisory for 19-02-2024: Travel Plans and Precautions

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JK Traffic Advisory

In light of the prevailing conditions, authorities have issued a comprehensive traffic plan and advisory for February 19, 2024, ensuring safe travel across various routes. Here are the key points:

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44):

  • Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), Passenger/Private Cars, Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs), and Load Carriers will be permitted from both directions along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), i.e., Jammu to Srinagar and vice versa.
  • Commuters are urged to maintain lane discipline for smooth traffic flow.

Security Forces Convoy Movement:

  • Security Forces vehicles will also be allowed to move in both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44) provided the weather and road conditions remain favorable.
  • Prior to embarking on the journey, individuals are advised to contact the Traffic Control Unit (TCU) in Ramban for updated information.

Road Closures:

  • Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari Road remains closed due to heavy snow accumulation.
  • Mughal Road and Bhaderwah-Chamba road are also blocked due to snow.
  • Similarly, the Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag road is inaccessible owing to snow accumulation.

Advisory for Travelers:

  • It is strongly recommended for travelers to verify the road status from the respective Traffic Control Units before commencing their journey. The contact details for these units are provided below:
  • Jammu: 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103
  • Srinagar: 0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103
  • Ramban: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
  • Udhampur: 8491928625
  • PCR Kishtwar: 9906154100 (for Sinthan Road status)

By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed, travelers can ensure a safer and more efficient journey amidst the current conditions. Stay tuned for further updates and exercise caution while traveling.

EXPOSED: Shocking Reasons Behind Delay in IDTR Jammu Project Revealed! Click to Uncover the Truth Now!

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Govt of J&K

In response to mounting concerns over the delay in the completion of the “Institute for Driving, Training and Research (IDTR Jammu)” project, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken decisive action. Government Order No. 03-JK(TR) of 2024, dated February 13, 2024, has been issued to address the matter.

According to the order, Shri Imtiyaz Ahmad Wani, Director Finance, Transport Department, J&K, has been appointed as the “Inquiry Officer” to conduct a thorough investigation into the reasons behind the delay in completing the project. The investigation will focus on several key points outlined in the order:

  1. The approval and sanctioning process of the project by the Government of India’s Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
  2. The disbursement of funds totaling Rs. 1014.90 lakhs by the Ministry of Roads and Highways (MORTH), GoI, during the financial year 2019-20.
  3. The current status of the project’s physical progress, which is reported to be significantly below expectations, resulting in cost and time overruns.

The Inquiry Officer is tasked with submitting a comprehensive report detailing the causes of the delay and providing specific recommendations to address the issues identified. The report is expected to be submitted to the Administrative Department within one month from the issuance of the Government Order.

To facilitate the inquiry process, S. Chand Singh, JKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Transport Department, has been directed to assist the Inquiry Officer within the stipulated time frame.

This move underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability and timely completion of crucial infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of efficient utilization of public funds and resources.

Inclement Weather Forces Closure of Srinagar-Jammu National Highway

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Srinagar-Jammu National Highway

Amidst challenging weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities have taken the decision to close the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for vehicular movement on Monday. This decision comes in response to the adverse effects of heavy rainfall in the region.

Traffic officials have reported incidents of mudslide at Mehad-Cafteria in Ramban and landslide at Tabela Chamalwass in Banihal, prompting the closure of the highway. These natural occurrences have been attributed to the relentless rains experienced in the Ramban district over the past 24 hours.

In light of the hazardous conditions, authorities are urging individuals to refrain from traveling on the highway until the weather conditions improve and clearance operations are completed. They have emphasized the importance of seeking updates from Traffic Control Units (TCU) before commencing any journeys.

Furthermore, it’s not just the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway that’s affected; other major highways in Jammu and Kashmir, such as Bhaderwah-Chamba, Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag, Mughal Road, and Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road, are also closed for vehicular movement due to significant snow accumulation.

The closure of these vital transportation arteries underscores the severity of the weather conditions and the need for caution among residents and travelers in the region. Authorities remain vigilant and are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone affected by the inclement weather.

SDM Pahalgam Syed Naseer Ahmad Transferred and Posted as ACD Kulgam

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Syed Naseer Ahmad JKAS

Syed Naseer Ahmad, a diligent officer serving in the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS), has recently been entrusted with a new responsibility. With his commendable track record and exemplary service, Ahmad has been transferred and posted as the Project Officer for Wage Employment under the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) in Kulgam. This move underscores the administration’s trust in his capabilities and dedication to public service.

Previously, Ahmad served as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Pahalgam, where he efficiently handled various administrative tasks, ensuring smooth governance and effective implementation of policies. Additionally, he held the crucial additional charge of Sub-Registrar in Pahalgam, exhibiting versatility and a commitment to excellence in multiple domains.