‘Darbar Move to be revived: A symbol of J&K’s unity and inclusivity’
JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today held an extensive interaction with members of Jammu’s civil society at his official residence on Wazarat Road. This marks his first meeting with Jammu’s civil society since assuming office as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
A similar interaction was held on 30th October this year with civil society representatives in Kashmir.
The interaction programme was attended and addressed by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana, Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani. Senior officials from the civil and police administration were also present during the outreach session.
He reiterated that his government represents all citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of their political affiliations.
Addressing concerns of regional bias, he stated, “This government is not just for those who voted for the National Conference; it is the government of every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite attempts by some to play with emotions of Jammu after the elections and harping on issue of regional divide, we have consistently prioritized inclusivity and equity.”
The Chief Minister highlighted his deliberate decision to appoint a Deputy Chief Minister from Jammu, not out of compulsion but to underscore that Jammu is as integral to this government as Kashmir.
Addressing the concerns about the Darbar Move, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment restore this biannual administrative tradition.
“Some things cannot be weighed merely in financial terms. The Darbar Move symbolizes the unity and inclusivity of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a tradition that ensures governance remains accessible to both regions.”
He dismissed financial arguments against this 150 year old practice which has now been stopped, stating, “The role of the government is not to focus solely on profit. Our responsibility is to serve and ensure balanced development across regions. Ending the Darbar Move would only alienate the people of the two regions from one another and harm the collective unity we strive to preserve.”
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives of women’s organizations, non-governmental organizations, ex-servicemen, Kashmiri Pandits, traders, hoteliers, tourism players, transport associations, religious leaders, pensioners, senior folk singers, Sikh representatives, RTI activists, and leaders from various political parties.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over Jammu’s limited share of the burgeoning tourism industry and laid out plans to diversify the region’s economy.
“Over one crore pilgrims visit Mata Vaishno Devi annually, but we have yet to tap into even 15% of this potential to promote tourism in Jammu. If we can redirect a fraction of these pilgrims, Jammu’s economy can transform,” he noted.
He announced plans to establish a craft & culture fair modeled on the Surajkund Mela, to showcase the region’s rich heritage and boost tourism. The initiative will involve collaboration between industries, farmers, cultural representatives, and tourism stakeholders, he stated.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted several key issues raised during the interaction and outlined his government’s commitment to addressing them.
He said that Smart City projects are nearing completion and there is no scope for this government to do any course correction but we shall take new initiatives for Jammu and Srinagar, which aim to modernize the city’s infrastructure and enhance its livability.
The government, he s…
[7:51 pm, 11/12/2024] Bilal Information: Transport Minister condoles demise of JKRTC employee
JAMMU, DECEMBER 11: Minister for Transport, Satish Sharma, has condoled the demise of JKRTC employee, Raghunandan Singh Slathia, who passed away today due to cardiac arrest.
The Minister fondly recalled Raghunandan Singh Slathia’s dedication and significant contribution towards the department. He expressed solidarity with the family and assured full support to the grieved family over the untimely demise of Raghunandan Singh Slathia. He also prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Raghunandan Singh Slathia was in the personal section of Transport Minister, Satish Sharma.
