Rehabilitation Policy for Drug Abuse Victims Soon: LG Manoj Sinha

Driving Licences, Passports of Drug Peddlers to Be Cancelled

Srinagar, May 3:

Manoj Sinha on Sunday announced that the administration is finalising a comprehensive rehabilitation policy for drug abuse victims in Jammu and Kashmir, expected to be rolled out within the next few weeks.

Speaking to reporters at the Lok Bhavan, the Lieutenant Governor said the policy will include a structured three-year monitoring programme aimed at ensuring sustained recovery and reintegration of individuals who overcome drug addiction.

“We are creating a detailed rehabilitation plan so that individuals who recover from drug addiction can be tracked for three years, with complete support systems in place,” he said.

Highlighting the need for enhanced infrastructure, Sinha said more rehabilitation centres will be established while existing facilities will be strengthened. He added that the Health Department has been directed to ensure adequate OPD and IPD services for drug abuse victims in hospitals across the Union Territory.

The Lieutenant Governor also outlined a series of stringent measures against drug peddlers, including cancellation of driving licences and recommendation for revocation of passports. “An SOP has been issued under which anyone involved in drug trafficking will face criminal action along with cancellation of driving licences and termination of vehicle registration,” he said.

He further stated that authorities will freeze bank accounts, initiate action on Aadhaar cards, issue lookout notices for absconders, and attach properties under provisions of the NDPS Act.

Sinha emphasized the importance of collective societal effort, noting that religious and political leaders are being engaged to strengthen awareness campaigns. “When law enforcement, societal will, and community cooperation come together, success becomes easier,” he remarked.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that drug trafficking in Jammu and Kashmir is linked to terrorism and youth radicalisation, adding that proceeds from narcotics often fund such activities.

Referring to the ongoing anti-drug campaign launched on April 11 from the M.A. Stadium, he said the initiative has witnessed massive public participation, with foot marches conducted across multiple districts of the Jammu division.

He added that a foot march is scheduled to be led by him on Monday from the astroturf football stadium at TRC Chowk to Lal Chowk in Srinagar as part of the continuing campaign against drug abuse.

Lieutenant Governor Launches Major Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Narco-Terrorism in Srinagar

Thousands marched together, sending a clear message to defeat drug addiction and narco-terrorism. People’s movement carries promise of a future where J&K stands free from the grip of drugs: LG
It is also promise of every teacher who has witnessed talent and potential fade into silence. Determination to uproot drugs is not only a declaration from administration but it is collective resolve of people, who, after enduring decades of suffering, have risen to say: enough is enough: LG Sinha
Active participation of the people is unshakable force capable of defeating the enemies’ assault through narco-terrorism. Drug traffickers and their networks have targeted our youth. We have taken a solemn oath that we will never allow them to succeed: LG
Lieutenant Governor called upon people to come together to build a Jammu Kashmir, where no child is lost to drugs, no family is broken by addiction, no community suffers under drug traffickers, and every resident of the UT thrives in health and strength
This is the vision we pursue, the dream we must fulfil, and the legacy we owe future generations. It is about Jammu Kashmir’s destiny, the society we aspire to build, the values we uphold, and the lives we safeguard. Today, let us pledge that we will not rest until Jammu Kashmir is completely drug-free: LG Sinha
Intervention from the society is most significant. We must involve elders, spiritual leaders and teachers to guide youth on the right path. Their vigilance can save lives and serve as powerful weapons against addiction. I also want to tell our youth that drugs are not “cool” but they are chains that steal your freedom. Your energy belongs to sports fields, skill platforms, and the building of a brighter future: LG
Under a new SoP, we are taking stringent action. Between April 11 and May 2, the Jammu and Kashmir divisions together recorded 481 FIRs in just 21 days. During this period, 518 drug smugglers and peddlers were sent to jail, while 24 houses, which were proceeds of crime, were demolished and property worth crores was seized. Kashmir alone accounted for 26 of these attachments. In addition, authorities have recommended the cancellation of more than 300 driving licences: LG Sinha
Across the region, cancellation of 325 vehicle registrations has been recommended. Nearly 3,000 drug stores were inspected, leading to 107 license suspensions and one FIR. These figures highlight how police and civil administration, backed by public cooperation, are enforcing a strict “Zero Tolerance to Drugs” policy aimed at dismantling the supply chain completely: LG

Srinagar, May 3:

“In the war against drug abuse and narco-terrorism, every step matters. Every effort counts. Every contribution brings victory closer. Together, let us envision a Jammu Kashmir where no child is lost to drugs, no family is broken by addiction, no community suffers under traffickers, and every citizen thrives in health and strength,” the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha said today in Srinagar.
“This is the vision we pursue, the dream we must fulfil, and the legacy we owe future generations. It is about Jammu Kashmir’s destiny, the society we aspire to build, the values we uphold, and the lives we safeguard. Today, let us pledge that we will not rest until Jammu Kashmir is completely drug-free,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He was addressing the launch of a major campaign against drug abuse and narco-terrorism at TRC Football Ground in Srinagar. The Lieutenant Governor also led a two-KMs Padyatra, urging people from all walks of life to commit themselves wholeheartedly to the fight against substance abuse.
The Lieutenant Governor said that battle against substance abuse is being fought in our homes and the pledge we made today is not just a personal vow.
“It is cry of every mother who has seen her child consumed by addiction, and solemn commitment of every father who has watched dreams collapse under weight of drug abuse.

It is also promise of every teacher who has witnessed talent and potential fade into silence. Determination to uproot drugs is not only a declaration from administration but it is collective resolve of people, who, after enduring decades of suffering, have risen to say: enough is enough.
Active participation of the people is unshakable force capable of defeating the enemies’ assault through narco-terrorism. Drug traffickers and their networks have targeted our youth. We have taken a solemn oath that we will never allow them to succeed,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the intervention from the society is most significant. He said that we must involve elders, spiritual leaders and teachers to guide youth on the right path. Their vigilance can save lives and serve as powerful weapons against addiction, he said.
“I also want to tell our youth that drugs are not “cool” but they are chains that steal your freedom. Your energy belongs to sports fields, skill platforms, and the building of a brighter future,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said our neighbouring country, known as the world’s foremost incubator of terrorism is pushing drugs to harm our youth and sponsor terrorism. He said drug money fuels terrorism and radicalization. He also said that this mission advances on three fronts- dismantling supply chains, spreading awareness at the grassroots, and rehabilitating addicts with dignity and care.

“It is a grave threat to internal security. Both terrorists and drug traffickers seek to fracture unity, corrode integrity, and destroy peace, while draining the strength of our youth to strike at Jammu Kashmir’s future. We have adopted 360-degree approach for cracking down on drug peddlers, rehabilitating addicts, training police, raising awareness, and mobilizing grassroots participation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
“Under a new SoP, we are taking stringent action. Between April 11 and May 2, the Jammu and Kashmir divisions together recorded 481 FIRs in just 21 days. During this period, 518 drug smugglers and peddlers were sent to jail, while 24 houses, which were proceeds of crime, were demolished and property worth crores was seized. Kashmir alone accounted for 26 of these attachments. In addition, authorities have recommended the cancellation of more than 300 driving licences.
Across the region, cancellation of 325 vehicle registrations has been recommended. Nearly 3,000 drug stores were inspected, leading to 107 license suspensions and one FIR. These figures highlight how police and civil administration, backed by public cooperation, are enforcing a strict “Zero Tolerance to Drugs” policy aimed at dismantling the supply chain completely,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning to narco-terror networks stating that drug syndicates, and anti-national element’s time on Jammu Kashmir’s soil is over.
“Our agencies, our administration, and our people stand united to dismantle every smuggling ring and peddler operation. We are tracking the financial trails of drug cartels. Every link will be broken, every mechanism destroyed. I pledge to the people that every trafficker will be exposed, every criminal will face justice, and anyone, inside or outside Jammu Kashmir, who has aided the drug network will be held accountable under the full force of law,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Grand Farewell Function Held in Honour of Senior Trade Union Leader and Vice Chairman JKRETTF (J&K UT) Rahi Irshad at Baramulla

INAYAT QAYOOM

Baramulla, 1 May 2026:

A grand farewell function was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Rehbar-e-Taleem Teachers Forum (JKRETTF), District Baramulla, at Dakbanglow Baramulla on the occasion of the superannuation of Rahi Irshad, Senior Trade Union Leader and Vice Chairman JKRETTF (J&K UT).

The event witnessed an overwhelming participation of teachers, educationists, journalists, trade union leaders and members of civil society, reflecting the deep respect and admiration Rahi Irshad commands across the region.

The function was graced by Chairman North Kashmir Journalist Association and renowned broadcaster Haji Karamat Qayoom as the chief guest while as Chairman JKRETTF and Vice Chairman EJAC, Khalid Rafiq Bhat, Principal HSS Dangerpora Mushtaq Sopori attended as guest of honour. Among the special guests were Senior Educationist and former Headmaster Mohammad Saleem Dar and President BWJA, Zargar Gulzar

.Addressing the gathering, District President JKRETTF Mohammad Yaqoob Bhat described Rahi Irshad as “a pillar of honesty, integrity, and dedication whose lifelong commitment has strengthened the teaching fraternity and trade union movement in Jammu and Kashmir.”

Chief Spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, while acknowledging his contributions, said “Rahi Sahib’s visionary leadership and unwavering voice for teachers’ rights have left an indelible mark that will continue to guide future generations.” District Organiser Mustafa Wazir remarked, “His journey reflects resilience and selfless service, making him a role model for young educators and trade union activists.”

While welcoming the guests, Zonal President Sopore, Showkat Ahmad Dar, stated, “Rahi Irshad’s contribution towards unity and collective strength of teachers will always be remembered with pride.” Zonal President Dangerpora, Zahoor Zainigri , said, “His dedication and sincerity have set high standards for commitment in both education and union service.”Zonal President, Manzoor Ahmad Sheikh, added, “Rahi Sahib has been a guiding force whose wisdom and experience have benefited the entire teaching community.”

Chairman JKRETTF, Khalid Rafiq Bhat, in his address, highlighted “the immense contribution of Rahi Irshad as a dynamic leader who always stood firm for justice, fairness, and the dignity of teachers.”

The proceedings of the programme were conducted by District General Secretary, Reyaz Ahmad Ganai, who, while anchoring the event, expressed deep emotions and heartfelt gratitude. He described Rahi Irshad Sahib as an exemplary leader whose dedication and contributions have left a lasting legacy.

Chief Guest Haji Karamat praised Rahi Irshad for his remarkable service, stating that “such personalities are rare who dedicate their lives for the betterment of society and education. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.” The proceedings concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks presented by the Chief Election Commissioner JKRETTF Bhat Altaf, who appreciated the presence of dignitaries, participants, and organisers for making the event a grand success. The farewell function concluded on an emotional note, with participants expressing deep gratitude and best wishes for Rahi Irshad for a healthy, happy, and fulfilling post-retirement life and escorted him to home.

On the occasion, Zonal President Rohama Mohammad Amin Mir, along with a large number of teachers and trade union leaders, including District Apex members, Zonal Presidents and Zonal Executive representatives, attended the function.

Those who spoke on the occasion included Sector President Tariq Toib, Zonal President Dangerpora Sopore Zahoor Ahmad Ganai, Zonal President Singpora Kalan, ZP Pattan Singpora Syed Zulfkar Ahmad Ashiq Hussain, Zonal President Sopore Showkat Ahmad Dar, Zonal President Pattan Zai-ud-din Pandit, Zonal President Dangiwacha Sajad Ahmad Naikoo, District Member Haji Mohammad Ashraf, District Member Ajaz Ahmad Ganai, District Social Media Head Jan Mohammad Lone and other members of the zonal leadership.

The proceedings of the programme were conducted by District General Secretary Reyaz Ahmad Ganai, who, while anchoring the event, expressed heartfelt gratitude and described Rahi Irshad as an exemplary leader whose legacy will endure.

On the occasion, the forum also felicitated Reyaz Ahmad Ganai, District General Secretary JKRETTF Baramulla, for his outstanding contributions in the field of education. He is a recipient of the prestigious Dr. BML Munjal Social Impact Award and Best Innovative Educator Award 2024, and has been selected for the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023 and 2025.

Ganai has successfully mentored students for national and international platforms including INSPIRE Awards, National Technology Week, Invent India Challenge, and the SAKURA Science Exchange Programme, Japan.

The felicitation added further significance to the occasion, marking it as a memorable and inspiring event for the teaching fraternity.

On the occasion, the forum presented a certificate of appreciation to Rahi Irshad in recognition of his remarkable work, dedication, and lifelong service to the teaching fraternity and trade union movement. As a mark of respect and affection, tokens of love and gifts were also presented to him by the members. In a touching gesture reflecting his stature and prestige, he was ceremoniously escorted to his home by colleagues and well-wishers.

DC Baramulla Visits Uri; Reviews Vibrant Village Programme

He directed officers to maintain close coordination and adhere strictly to timelines for effective on-ground implementation.

Uri, May 02 :

Deputy Commissioner Baramulla S.F Hamid today visited Uri and chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Officers Club Uri regarding the implementation of the Vibrant Village Programme.

The meeting was attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri, Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Baramulla, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), and other concerned officers.

During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on the formulation and execution of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) under the programme. The DC stressed the importance of timely preparation and submission of DPRs, ensuring that all proposals are need-based, sustainable, and aligned with the objectives of holistic development in the area. He directed officers to maintain close coordination and adhere strictly to timelines for effective on-ground implementation.

The DC also reviewed the progress of various developmental works being undertaken in the area and emphasized expediting projects to ensure timely completion and maximum public benefit.

Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan:J&K Police come hard at smugglers, peddlers during first 15 days

Properties worth crores attached; about 400 FIRs registered; more than 400 booked

Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar, May 02 :

Jammu & Kashmir Police have intensified its multi-pronged crackdown on drug trafficking and substance abuse under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, registering significant achievements across the Union Territory.

Pertinently, the ongoing campaign launched and spearheaded by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to target drug peddlers, dismantle financial networks linked to narcotics, and strengthen public awareness is going on in full vigour.

Sources told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the accelerated action under the abhiyaan is on the top of agenda of the Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat who chaired a number of review meetings and made visits to districts for achieving maximum results.

The campaign, started on April 11, 2026, and up to April 26, 2026, 378 cases were registered under the NDPS Act and related laws, with 431 drug peddlers booked.

“Police seized 478 kg of narcotic drugs, 13,427 tables,capsules and bottles of psychotropic substances, with a total estimated value about Rs. seven crore. The authorities disposed of 4,776 kg of narcotic drugs and 6,493 tablets,capsules and bottles of psychotropic substances.

Efforts to curb illicit cultivation leading to the destruction of poppy crops is also in full swing.
Financial investigations resulted in the attachment of 16 movable properties worth ₹78,32,736 and 17 immovable properties valued at ₹9,13,83,039. Surveillance remains active on 52 kingpins and 2,898 drug peddlers across the UT,” sources said.

“Public outreach has been a key pillar of the campaign, with 994 awareness programmes conducted, reaching thousands of participants. Under the capacity-building initiatives police has trained about 1500 Investigating Officers and 15 Prosecutors to strengthen enforcement and prosecution.

Regulatory enforcement included inspections of 2,274 establishments, leading to corrective actions. 88 driving licences of those involved in drug trade were cancelled, while 19 vehicle registrations were also cancelled. Legal actions included challenging 21 bail orders and 1 acquittal order,” sources added—(KNO)

CAG flags ₹250 crore irregularities in Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project; critical assets found abandoned

‘₹50 crore spent on unused bridges, ₹35 crore oxygen plants non-functional, ₹2.35 crore rescue kits left to decay in storage’

Raja Syed Rather

Srinagar, May 02 :

The World Bank-aided Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP) in Jammu & Kashmir has come under scrutiny, with the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) flagging “unfruitful expenditure,” idle infrastructure worth crores, and violations of contractual provisions in its report for the period ending March 2023.

The audit, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), noted that several key assets—including flood rescue boats, oxygen generator plants and search and rescue kits—have remained unused for years, raising concerns over preparedness in a disaster-prone Union Territory still vulnerable to floods like the 2014 deluge.

It further pointed to procurement irregularities, stating that the Project Management Unit (PMU) in August 2017 procured 30 emergency fibre and rubber boats from M/s Gee Pee Reinforced Products Pvt Ltd at inflated rates, despite a clause mandating refund of excess amount if subsequent tenders were finalised at lower rates.

However, the audit noted that when tenders for 28 additional boats were opened in 2018—with the same firm emerging as L1—the Project CEO in August 2025 termed the earlier contract as “expired.” The auditors rejected the claim, observing that the agreement carried no expiry clause and the firm remained liable to refund the excess amount.

It also flagged that over 500 high-value Search and Rescue kits, procured at a cost of ₹2.35 crore, have been lying unused for more than two years in government stores in Kathua and Anantnag, defeating the objective of strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for disaster response.

The report further revealed that out of 530 kits supplied between October 2021 and June 2022, as many as 505 were not distributed, citing a lack of SDRF training. It added that key safety components, such as Karabiners in 230 kits, were found defective and remained unreplaced as of January 2024, while no provision existed in the contract for replenishment of perishable items.

A joint physical inspection of 16 Oxygen Generator Plants (OGPs) pointed to systemic lapses, with the audit noting that no manpower was provided by the Health Department for their operation. At CHC Akhnoor, the plant was handed over only after the withdrawal of contractor staff, leaving it non-functional.

At CHC Hiranagar, defects such as burnt circuit breakers and leaking valves remained unattended for months, while a plant at PHC Zakura was found inaccessible due to the occupation of the premises by security forces. In the absence of any maintenance provision, the audit termed the COVID-era assets a “dead loss.”

The report also flagged the state-owned JKPCC, stating that out of 13 sub-projects worth ₹266 crore, 10 remain incomplete and seven have been abandoned since 2020-21, resulting in unfruitful expenditure of ₹50.52 crore.

It further noted that bridges at Wagoora, Trenz Sheikhpora and Rohmoo are delayed by over four years. In violation of contract terms, JKPCC sub-contracted two major bridge projects worth ₹55.75 crore up to 61 per cent, exceeding the permissible limit of 25 per cent, while work was also halted over the use of sub-standard E-250 grade steel.

The audit also pulled up the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation (JKMSCL) for procuring 500 modular monitors at inflated rates, leading to an avoidable expenditure of ₹31.6 lakh. It added that medical equipment worth ₹5.39 crore remains idle in hospitals across Poonch, Samba and Baramulla due to a lack of supporting infrastructure.

Besides, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) was flagged for spending ₹102.89 crore on the upgradation of dewatering stations handling mixed discharge. The audit noted that despite World Bank directions, the corporation pumped large quantities of household wastewater into the Jhelum and Dhoodh Ganga, attracting a penalty of ₹35 crore from the National Green Tribunal—(KNO)

Supreme Court Directs J&K Govt to Issue Engagement Orders Within 8 Weeks in ReT Case

New Delhi, May 2:

The Supreme Court of India has directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to issue engagement orders to candidates selected under the Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) scheme, holding that the scheme’s closure cannot retrospectively deny appointments to those already placed in select panels.

The order came while disposing of a batch of petitions, including the case involving the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir versus Saba Wani, with the court modifying earlier High Court directions.

The court ruled that candidates included in the select panels must be appointed based on available vacancies and their merit position. It directed the administration to issue formal engagement orders within eight weeks.

However, the court imposed conditions regarding qualifications. It said that candidates appointed under the scheme must acquire the minimum qualifications prescribed by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), including qualifying the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), within three years and up to three attempts.

The judgment further stated that after acquiring the required qualifications and clearing TET, such appointees would be eligible for regularization after completing two years of service.

The court clarified that these conditions would also apply to similarly placed candidates who have already been appointed under the ReT scheme but do not meet the required qualifications.

It also directed that seniority among such candidates be determined based on their position in the original select panels, rather than the date of appointment or regularization.

The court warned that candidates who fail to acquire the required qualifications or clear TET within the stipulated period may face termination of services.

At the same time, the court made it clear that the ruling does not revive the ReT scheme or create rights for those who were not part of the select panels or had not approached courts earlier.

The judgment, issued under Article 142 of the Constitution, was described as specific to the facts of the case and not to be treated as a precedent.

Mega Padyatra on May 3 to Boost Drug-Free Campaign in J&K: LG Manoj Sinha

Srinagar, May 02:

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday called upon people across Jammu and Kashmir to join a major public movement aimed at building a drug-free society, announcing a Mega Padyatra scheduled to be held on May 3 at the TRC Football Stadium Srinagar.

In a public message, the LG said he is witnessing a strong and inspiring momentum across the Union Territory towards eliminating the menace of drug abuse. He urged citizens from all walks of life, especially youth, to participate in the padyatra and collectively take a stand against narcotics.

“Let us unite and work together to create a safer and healthier Jammu and Kashmir for future generations,” he said, emphasizing that community participation is key to the success of the anti-drug campaign.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the administration to strengthen awareness and intensify action against drug abuse, with authorities encouraging widespread public involvement to make the campaign impactful and sustainable.(KNC)

Doctors Transferred Across Anantnag Health Institutions; DHSK Issues Fresh Posting Orders

Srinagar, May 2:

The Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) has ordered the transfer and posting of several doctors across healthcare institutions in Anantnag district in the interest of administration and patient care.

As per Order No. 476/Gaz of 2026 dated May 2, Dr. Mohammad Akhter Naikoo, Consultant Paediatrics at SDH Bijbehara, has been transferred to SDH Achabal, while Dr. Imtiyaz Hussain has been shifted from Achabal to SDH Bijbehara.

Dr. Nisar Ahmad Khanday, In-charge Consultant Surgery at SDH Bijbehara, has been transferred to SDH Pahalgam, replacing Dr. Sajad Ahmad Dangroo, who has been moved to SDH Kokernag for further duties.

Meanwhile, Dr. Afreen Abdullah, Medical Officer at SDH Bijbehara, has been posted to PHC Saller, while Dr. Qurat-ul-Ain has been transferred from Saller to SDH Bijbehara.

In another adjustment, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Beigh, In-charge Consultant Surgery at SDH Seer Hamdan, has been transferred and posted to SDH Bijbehara against an available vacancy.

The order states that all the concerned doctors shall be deemed relieved from their present postings and must join their new assignments immediately. The Chief Medical Officer Anantnag has been directed to submit a compliance report within two days.

The order has been issued by Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi.(KNC)

DIC, media and friends bid affectionate adieu to Senior Assistant, Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad of information department

Reyaz Rashid

Baramulla: The Department of Information and Media bids a fond farewell to the esteemed Senior Assistant, Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad of Shrakwara Baramulla, as he gracefully concludes his 40-year journey of unwavering dedication and service.

In a grand and impressive function organized by the department of information at the Girls’ Higher Secondary School Baramulla, colleagues, friends, and dignitaries came together to celebrate the illustrious career of Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad.

The gathering, convened to honor  and celebrate Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad’s retirement, was adorned with insightful addresses delivered by esteemed speakers, illuminating his profound impact on enhancing the operational landscape within the information department.

With 40 years of steadfast commitment, Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad has etched an enduring legacy within the department and the society he served.

The function was graced by the esteemed presence of District Information Officer (DIO), Iftikhar Ahmad, Chairman Baramulla Working Journalist Association and senior broadcast journalist Karamat Qayoom, senior writer and innovator Reyaz Rashid, Artist and writer Taseer Afzal, Cameraman senior Assistant Shahzad Ahmad Bhat, senior producer Muzamil Mehraj and senior assistant  Muzzafar Ahmad Bhat from information department, employees from various other departments, media personalities, and all officials from the Information Department, Baramulla.

During the farewell proceedings, the DIO Baramulla  Iftikhar Ahmad extolled the invaluable contributions of Ghulam Mohammad as the Senior Assistant, offering heartfelt congratulations on his retirement and bestowing well wishes for his post-retirement endeavors.

Speaking on the occasion, senior journalist and chairman BWJA Karamat Qayoom expressed heartfelt sentiments, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad to the Department of Information. He commended Mohammad’s dedication and professionalism throughout his esteemed career.

While dedicating few affectionate Urdu poetry couplet Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad , Reyaz Rashid a writer and innovator emphasized the importance of recognizing the efforts of individuals like Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad, whose commitment has significantly impacted the society and department  including those in the field of journalism. He extended warm wishes to him for a fulfilling retirement and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate his remarkable achievements.

Tributes poured in from fellow officials and colleagues, resonating with admiration for his professionalism, integrity, and exemplary work ethic.

In his parting words, Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad reflected on the odyssey of his distinguished career in the information department, expressing profound gratitude for the support and camaraderie he experienced during his tenure at DIC, Baramulla.

Subsequently, accompanied by his colleagues, Hakeem Ghulam Mohammad was escorted to his abode, where his family members joined in, amplifying the significance of this momentous occasion, ensuring it remains etched in his memory for eternity as Kashmir folk singers and music added flavor in the mesmerizing evening at his home.