LAZAWAL

Sheraz Choudhary Honoured as Best Journalist at J&K Vision Summit

Jammu, 21 December 2025 :- Renowned journalist Sheraz Choudhary was felicitated for Best Journalism by Cabinet Minister J&K Government Javed Ahmed Rana during the “J&K Vision Summit” held at Hotel Asia, Jammu. The event was organized by “The World Relation” and saw participation from media professionals, policymakers and industry leaders.

Minister Rana lauded Choudhary investigative rigor, impactful reporting and dedication to public service journalism. The recognition comes amid a series of government‑hosted summits focusing on development and governance in Jammu & Kashmir.

*DDC Rajouri reviews progress of work on Sunderbani–BG Highway Stretch*

*Sets timelines for Issue Resolution, completion of work*

RAJOURI, DECEMBER 12: District Development Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma today reviewed the progress of widening and upgradation works on National Highway 144 from Sunderbani to BG sector stretch. The review meeting focused on accelerating the pace of work and removing bottlenecks to ensure timely completion of the road project.

The DDC took a detailed assessment of the Thandapani, Bakhar and Galuthi Kotli stretches. Discussions were held regarding land-related disputes, requirement for additional land acquisition, identification of dumping locations and estimated timeline for completion of each section.

Stressing the need for uninterrupted ex*****on, the District Development Commissioner directed the concerned agencies to expedite progress on all stretches. He instructed them to strictly adhere to the timelines set for resolving pending issues and to promptly apprise the district administration in case of any bottleneck that may hamper the pace of work.

To enhance road safety, the DDC directed the executing agencies to lay rumble strips and install signages and blinking lights at vulnerable locations, including Siot.

The DDC emphasized coordinated efforts and timely intervention to ensure the highway project progresses smoothly and benefits commuters, locals and defence movement in the region.

The meeting was attended by IAS Probationer Seerat Baaji; representatives from BRO, including Preetam Kumar and Manumay Bisht; and officials from the AC Defence Office.

5,000 lives saved, relief delivered, Indian Army proves unmatched commitment: Dr. Pardeep Mahotra

Jammu, 02 September 2025:
Lauding the professionalism and humanitarian commitment of the Indian Army, Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, Media Incharge, J&K BJP, said that during the recent spell of incessant rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods, that wreaked havoc in parts of Jammu, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh, the Western Command of Indian Army rescued more than 5,000 civilians and distributed tens of tonnes of relief material to the affected population under the extensive Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
Dr. Pardeep Mahotra said this heroic effort once again underlined the Army’s unmatched role as a savior of lives and guardian of the nation, not just in war but equally in times of peace and calamity.
“The Indian Army has proved to be the best in Operation Sindoor, Operation Mahadev and now played paramount role in saving the lives of people in the time of natural disaster. Our soldiers are the real heroes and the role models for us all, which need to be applauded and to be followed by our youth,” said Dr. Pardeep.
Dr. Pardeep emphasized that the Army’s timely action in restoring vital links, rebuilding washed-out bridges, and carrying out large-scale rescue and relief operations demonstrated its ability to rise to every challenge. “The dedication with which the Army coordinates with the civil administration and other agencies during such disasters shows its discipline, professionalism, and commitment to the people,” he said.
He added that the Army’s contribution in emergencies, whether natural calamities like earthquakes, floods, and avalanches or man-made crises, has always been extraordinary. From providing medical aid to ensuring food, shelter, and connectivity, the Army continues to serve as the first responder in the most difficult terrains and circumstances. Beyond these emergency roles, the Army has also played a vital part in nation-building by developing infrastructure in border and remote regions, ensuring better connectivity and security for citizens.
Dr. Pardeep underlined that these efforts of the Indian Army are further strengthened by the unwavering support and visionary policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. Under the Modi government, modernization of the armed forces, enhanced disaster management systems, and greater synergy between defense forces and civil administration have been prioritized. This has enabled the Army to perform its duties with even greater efficiency and preparedness.
“The Indian Army, fully supported by the Modi government, remains the pride of every Indian. Its service in defending borders, saving lives in disasters, and building the nation reflects its motto of selfless dedication. The BJP salutes the unparalleled sacrifices and contributions of our soldiers,” Dr. Pardeep said.
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Azad expresses grief over Ramban cloudburst, Reasi landslide; calls for aid to flood victims

Jammu Sept 30: Former Chief Minister J&K, Chairman DPAP Ghulam Nabi Azad, has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in Jammu region due to natural calamities. Azad said, “I am deeply pained by the cloudburst in Rajgarh, Ramban that claimed 4 precious lives and left several missing. Equally heart-wrenching is the landslide in Reasi, in which 7 members of a family lost their lives. These tragedies have caused unbearable pain to the affected families. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families and I pray for the safety of those still missing.” He further said that as more rainfall has been predicted in the coming days, people in vulnerable areas must remain alert and cautious. Azad urged the Government to make proper arrangements for the victims and stressed the need for immediate relief and assistance to the flood-affected families in Jammu & Chenab valley. He also lauded the Indian Army, J&K Police and SDRF for their timely efforts in rescuing people and for constructing a bridge in Jammu to restore connectivity amid the crisis. He said their service and dedication in these testing times deserve high appreciation.

JU VC visits Poonch Campus; reviews academic progress, infrastructure projects

Explores defence-academia collaboration, community engagement initiatives

Poonch, June 08: To strengthen and to ensure optimum outreach of higher education in border and remote areas, Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, today visited the University’s Poonch Campus and reviewed academic progress with focus on achievements registered in various disciplines.

The Vice Chancellor also inspected various infrastructural projects and discussed strategic expansion plans.

The visit also aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister's visionary call for replacing the terminology of “last village” with “first village”, signifying a transformative approach to integrating border regions into the national development framework.

During the visit, the Vice Chancellor was accompanied by Hon’ble MLA Poonch, Mr. Ajaz Jaan; Dr. Guneet Singh Sudan, Director IT and OSD, J&K Higher Education Council; Dr. Jasbir Singh, Principal, SKC Government Degree College, Poonch; and local Sarpanchs. Prof. Rai interacted with faculty, staff, and campus officials, emphasizing the importance of quality education, skill development, and equitable access to higher education in geographically sensitive and underserved districts.

Importantly, the Vice Chancellor’s visit comes in the lead-up to a historic moment for the University of Jammu: for the first time in its history, the Academic Council meeting—one of the highest academic decision-making bodies—will be held at the Bhaderwah Campus on June 15, 2025. This initiative reflects the University’s evolving academic outreach and its alignment with the vision of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, JKUT and Chancellor of the University, who has consistently advocated for the holistic development of youth through expanded academic, cultural, and sporting opportunities across all regions of the Union Territory.

The Bhaderwah Campus will also host a series of academic, literary, and sports events between June 14–16, 2025, aimed at celebrating regional heritage, encouraging student participation, and promoting communal harmony. These efforts underscore the University’s broader commitment to nurturing local languages, cultural identity, and inclusive academic practices.

The objective behind holding the Academic Council meeting at Bhaderwah Campus—and similar important events at off-site campuses—is to make these campuses an integral part of the University’s core functioning. By involving them in key decision-making and flagship initiatives, the University aims to instill a strong sense of inclusion, institutional belonging, and collective purpose among faculty, staff, and students at these campuses.

During the Poonch Campus visit, Prof. Rai also indicated that new academic programs are being proposed for introduction at Poonch, and the matter will be formally deliberated during the upcoming Academic Council meeting at Bhaderwah. The objective is to expand course offerings that reflect both regional aspirations and national priorities in education.

Dr. Rubia Bukhari, In-charge, Department of Sericulture, presented a comprehensive briefing on academic activities and development initiatives at the Poonch Campus.

As part of the engagement, Prof. Rai held a productive meeting with Brigade Commander Brig Mudit Mahajan to discuss academic cooperation between the University and the armed forces. The University of Jammu will introduce tailor-made academic programs—including certificate, diploma, and degree courses—designed specifically for armed forces personnel stationed at Poonch and Bhaderwah. These programs will cater to their operational realities while enhancing lifelong learning opportunities. The Vice Chancellor also stated that University faculty will provide practical, technology-supported solutions to address specific needs of the armed forces, and internship opportunities will be extended to students as part of this collaborative framework.

Earlier, Prof. Rai alongwith other officials from the University paid obessiance at Gurdwara Nangali Sahib.

The Vice Chancellor also interacted with various social organizations in Poonch and acknowledged their efforts in supporting youth, education, and community welfare. He expressed the University's willingness to partner with such groups for initiatives that support youth engagement, education, and rural development.