Headlines
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called for the full utilization of modern technology to counter mischievous elements and anti-national forces spreading false and misleading narratives in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Scrutiny of nomination papers for the by-elections in Nagrota and Budgam constituencies will take place today.
- Preparations for the first session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, starting tomorrow in Srinagar, have been completed. The Speaker has accepted a PDP proposal to waive outstanding electricity bills in one go.
- The Central Government has issued a gazette notification to confer gallantry awards on security personnel for their outstanding performance during Operation Sandur and other campaigns.
- The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated with great enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir, with record sales of various items reported during the festivities.
LG-Fake Narrative
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has urged the full use of modern technology to combat mischievous and anti-national elements spreading false narratives in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at an event organized in Srinagar on Police Commemoration Day, the LG stated that leveraging new technology could serve as a powerful and effective tool for the police to curb the spread of misinformation and thwart such attempts. Highlighting the changes in the country over the past five years, he emphasized maintaining peace in Jammu and Kashmir and assured that no one would be allowed to disrupt the region’s atmosphere with divisive or malicious intentions.
Scrutiny-Bypolls
Preparations are in full swing for the by-elections scheduled for November 11 in the Nagrota and Budgam assembly constituencies. The scrutiny of nomination papers will be conducted today. According to All India Radio’s Jammu correspondent, a total of 33 candidates have filed nominations—20 for Budgam and 13 for Nagrota. To ensure a free, fair, transparent, and orderly election, the administration has set up checkpoints in various locations and installed CCTV cameras in sensitive areas for close monitoring. Candidates can withdraw their nominations by October 24, if they wish. Voting will take place on November 11, with vote counting scheduled for November 14. Robust security arrangements have been made to maintain order during the elections.
LA-Session Prep
The nine-day session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly will commence tomorrow in Srinagar, with all preparations finalized. The session, running from October 23 to October 31, will begin with Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather presiding, as per the issued calendar. The session will include tributes to former MLAs, MPs, or other deceased members. The proceedings will continue for six days, during which key development issues, public welfare, and matters related to Jammu and Kashmir’s governance will be discussed and addressed. Adequate security and peace arrangements have been put in place for the session.
Speaker Private Resolution
The Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, has accepted a proposal by PDP MLA from Kupwara, Mir Fayaz, recommending a one-time waiver of outstanding electricity bills. The proposal aims to provide relief to consumers facing financial difficulties due to high electricity tariffs and bill issuance challenges. The resolution, submitted by the MLA, will be tabled in the Assembly for further discussion and decision-making. The initiative seeks to alleviate the burden on ordinary citizens struggling with electricity bill payments.
PM-MKB
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation and share his thoughts with listeners worldwide through his radio program Mann Ki Baat on October 26. The 127th episode of the program, aired every last Sunday at 11 AM, invites people to share their ideas and suggestions via the toll-free number 1800-11-7800, the Narendra Modi App, or the MyGov platform. The deadline for submitting suggestions is October 24. Selected ideas may be included in the program.
Gallantry-Citation
The Central Government has issued a gazette notification to confer gallantry awards on security personnel for their exemplary courage and bravery during Operation Sandur and other campaigns. Among the recipients are Colonel Koshank Lamba and Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Butt. Colonel Lamba has been honored with the Veer Chakra for displaying extraordinary bravery and valor during a firefight in a forward area. Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Butt, for his outstanding leadership, courage, and determination in neutralizing a terror hideout, has also been awarded the Veer Chakra. Additionally, Group Captain Ranjit Singh Sahu has been recognized with the Veer Chakra for leading a precise strike operation, while Group Captain Amnesh Patni has been honored for his exceptional leadership in neutralizing a high-value target with a missile strike, causing significant damage to the enemy. Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu approved 127 gallantry awards and 40 distinguished service awards.
Diwali-Celebrations
The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. People decorated their homes and shops elaborately, while youngsters and children lit firecrackers and enjoyed fireworks, adding to the festive spirit. During the festival, people indulged in heavy shopping, exchanging sweets and gifts with relatives and friends. In the evening, devotees performed prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and celebrated Diwali together. In Srinagar’s historic Lal Chowk, a Deepotsav event was organized, where thousands of lamps were lit to mark the festival. People from various communities came together, expressing harmony and mutual joy. A local entrepreneur, sharing their thoughts, highlighted the festive spirit during the celebrations.
Retail Sector GST
During the Diwali festivities, record sales of various goods were reported across the state. According to data, trade worth ₹5.40 lakh crore was recorded, with the services sector contributing ₹65,000 crore. The Confederation of All India Traders reported that this year’s trade figures reflect a 25% increase compared to the same period last year. A trader from Reasi district noted that significant sales were recorded in clothing, electronics, household goods, and vehicles. Speaking to All India Radio, they elaborated on the robust business activity during the festive season.