NC Mendhar

28/05/2026

23/05/2026

*Rana reviews implementation of FRA in J&K*

_Calls for wider awareness on FRA, ST Atrocities Act among tribals_

Srinagar, May 23: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today chaired a high-level meeting with the senior functionaries of the Forest and Tribal Affairs departments to review the implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, in Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, the Minister took a comprehensive review of the status of claims filed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), the functioning of various committees constituted under the Act and the measures being undertaken to safeguard the rights of tribal communities and other traditional forest dwellers.

Ms. Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner/Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment; Mr. Prasana Ramaswamy G, Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Director, Tribal Affairs J&K; Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu; Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Director, Tribal Research Institute, J&K, among other senior officers from Forest, Tribal and allied departments attended the meeting.

Expressing concern over the inadequate understanding of the provisions and objectives of the Forest Rights Act among certain officials, the Minister urged them to develop a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the implementation framework of the Act.

He stressed that officers entrusted with the responsibility of implementing such an important legislation must possess thorough knowledge of its legal and humanitarian dimensions to ensure justice to the eligible beneficiaries.

Emphasising the need for greater public outreach, the Minister directed the concerned departments to intensify awareness campaigns among tribal communities regarding the provisions of the Forest Rights Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

He said that the eligible beneficiaries must be made fully aware of their legal and constitutional rights so that they can avail themselves of the protections and benefits guaranteed under law.

The Minister also reviewed the nomination of members to Block, District and UT-level committees constituted under the Act.

He directed for fast-tracking nomination and effective functioning of these committees to ensure prompt disposal of claims and transparent implementation of the Act.

During the meeting, the Minister directed that all unattended claims be examined on priority and due action be taken strictly in accordance with the provisions of law.

He reiterated that the core objective of the Act is to recognise and protect the legitimate rights of forest dwellers and ensure justice to tribal communities.

The meeting was informed that Forest Rights Committees have largely been constituted across J&K and the implementation process is underway in different districts.

While underlining the importance of forest conservation and environmental protection across Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister asserted that such efforts must not come at the cost of the rights, dignity and liberty of poor and helpless tribal communities and traditional forest dwellers. He maintained that ecological protection and human rights must go hand in hand within the constitutional framework.

The Minister further directed that any step regarding eviction, wherever required, must strictly follow due procedures established under law and adhere to the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court.

The Minister particularly directed Secretary Forest and HoFF to monitor and arrest any mischievous attempts by officers/officials down the line to play to the wishes of the empowered fringe elements in the society. He said that the rights and dignity of people especially the marginalised tribal communities must be protected at all costs.

“The basic rights of tribal communities cannot be snatched away and every action must remain within the framework of law, justice and human dignity,” the Minister asserted, while reiterating the Omar Abdullah government’s commitment towards safeguarding the rights and dignity of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers.

22/05/2026

A warm welcome to Haji Retd. Master Ghulam Qadir, Haji Mohammad Shabir, Retd. Master Mohammad Alyas, Madam Mohammad Aslam, Haji Mohammad Nazir and Mohammad Kabir from Salwah Mendhar, on joining the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference after leaving the People’s Democratic Party.

Their decision reflects the growing trust of the people in the vision and leadership of JKNC. Wishing them a successful political journey in serving the people and strengthening the party at the grassroots level.

22/05/2026

*Legislators, Public Deputations Call on Rana; Project Developmental Demands, Public Issues*

SRINAGAR, MAY 22: Several legislators, public deputations and individuals today called on Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana at Civil Secretariat here and apprised him of various public welfare issues, developmental concerns and sector-specific demands.

Among others, MLA Uri, Dr Sajjad Shafi and MLA Hazratbal, Salman Sagar met the Minister and discussed a range of constituency-related issues, seeking his intervention for augmentation of public infrastructure, improvement in drinking water supply schemes, strengthening of irrigation facilities and ex*****on of other developmental works in their respective constituencies.

During the interaction, the legislators stressed the need for timely completion of ongoing projects and early redressal of issues concerning public service delivery. They also highlighted several demands pertaining to enhancement of civic amenities, improvement of infrastructure and expeditious desiltation of irrigation networks.

Besides the legislators, several deputations and individuals from different areas also met the Minister and projected their grievances and demands.

A deputation of contractors associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission raised issues related to ex*****on of works under the mission and sought timely resolution of procedural and payment-related matters to ensure smooth implementation of projects. The delegation urged the Minister to intervene for uninterrupted progress of works being undertaken under the programme.

Another deputation comprising seasonal labourers of the Irrigation Department highlighted their long-pending issues and sought redressal of their concerns. They appealed for sympathetic consideration of their demands and welfare-related measures.

Various other deputations and individuals also apprised the Minister of issues pertaining to drinking water supply, irrigation facilities, public infrastructure and other local concerns requiring departmental attention.

The Minister gave a patient hearing to all the deputations and assured them that all genuine issues and demands projected during the meetings would be examined on priority.

He reiterated the Government’s commitment towards responsive governance and timely redressal of public grievances.

Javed Ahmed Rana said that the Government remains committed towards strengthening public service delivery and ensuring that developmental benefits reach every section of society in an effective and transparent manner.

He directed the concerned officers to take appropriate follow-up action on the issues raised by the visiting deputations and individuals.

18/05/2026

*Rana Reviews Departmental Performance at Mendhar Sub-Division, Conducts Public Outreach*

Mendhar, May 18: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today chaired a review meeting at Dak Bungalow Mendhar to assess the functioning of the various line departments at Sub-Division Mendhar and evaluate the progress of various developmental and public welfare initiatives being implemented in the area.

During the meeting, the Minister took a comprehensive review of ongoing developmental works, water supply position, functioning of irrigation infrastructure, maintenance of public utility systems and implementation of welfare schemes in the subdivision. He directed the officers and engineering staff to ensure efficient service delivery, timely completion of projects and uninterrupted public utilities for the convenience and welfare of the people.

The Minister stressed upon the engineering staff to remain vigilant in the maintenance and upkeep of water supply schemes, pump stations, pipelines and irrigation infrastructure so that the people, particularly those living in rural and far-flung areas, do not face any inconvenience. He instructed the concerned departments to ensure prompt response to public grievances and maintain close coordination at the field level for smooth and effective ex*****on of developmental works.

Emphasising the commitment of the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah towards strengthening public infrastructure and improving essential services, Javed Rana said that the administration is making every possible effort to accelerate development and provide better facilities to people at the grassroots level. He added that transparent governance, accountability and quality ex*****on of works remain the top priorities of the government.

The Minister further directed the officers to maintain strict quality standards and ensure transparency in implementation of all projects. He urged the concerned officers to work with dedication, sincerity and responsibility for the welfare of the people and overall development of the region.
Earlier, the Minister also conducted a public outreach camp at Mendhar, where a large number of delegations, public representatives and individuals apprised him of various issues and developmental concerns affecting their areas.

During the outreach programme, which was aimed at assessing the overall development scenario and addressing public grievances at the grassroots level, the Minister patiently listened to the concerns raised by the locals regarding drinking water supply, healthcare facilities, implementation of the Forest Rights Act, benefits under PMAY-G, road connectivity and other developmental requirements.

Several delegations also projected demands for strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving road networks, establishment of Eklavya Model Residential Schools and expediting various pending developmental works in the region.

Responding to the issues raised by the people, Javed Rana assured the delegations that all genuine concerns would be addressed in a time-bound manner. He reiterated the government’s resolve to deliver public services at the people’s doorsteps and ensure that developmental benefits reach every section of society without delay. “We are fully committed to delivering responsive and effective governance while ensuring that public grievances are addressed on priority,” the Minister asserted during the interaction.

Highlighting the key initiatives being undertaken by the government, the Minister said that focused measures are being implemented to provide safe drinking water to every household, strengthen healthcare services, improve road connectivity, address issues concerning tribal communities and ensure effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act across the region.

He also underscored the importance of continuous engagement with the grassroots to identify local problems and evolve practical solutions for sustainable development.

During the outreach programme, the Minister issued specific directions to various line departments for immediate action on critical issues and instructed the concerned authorities to ensure timely preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for speedy ex*****on of works.

The Minister further directed the Irrigation, Flood Control and Forest Departments to prioritise water and soil conservation measures, with special emphasis on rainwater harvesting and protection of natural resources. Stressing the significance of clean and sustainable water sources in transforming communities,

Rana called upon officers to devise effective strategies for tapping and conserving natural water resources.
He observed that the government’s vision for water conservation and sustainable development can only be achieved through coordinated efforts and active public participation.

The Minister urged citizens to play a responsible role in preserving natural resources and ensuring a water-secure future for coming generations.

18/05/2026

*Rana Hands Over engagement Orders to Anganwadi Workers, Helpers in Mendhar and Balakote*

Mendhar, May 18: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today handed over engagement orders to newly selected Anganwadi Workers and Helpers from Mendhar and Balakote under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, reaffirming the government’s commitment towards strengthening grassroots welfare and public health services in rural and border areas.

The event marked an important step towards enhancing the delivery of early childhood care, nutrition, maternal healthcare and community welfare services in the region. The newly engaged workers and helpers are expected to play a pivotal role in implementing welfare schemes at the grassroots level and ensuring effective outreach to women and children in remote areas.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister underscored the significant contribution of Anganwadi workers in promoting child welfare, women empowerment and community health awareness. He described Anganwadi centres as the backbone of rural welfare infrastructure, particularly in far-flung and underserved areas where such institutions serve as the first point of support for mothers and children.

The Minister said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is firmly committed to fulfilling its promises in the sectors of health, education and social welfare, and is taking concrete measures to strengthen grassroots institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the administration is working with dedication to ensure that welfare schemes reach every deserving household, especially in rural and tribal regions.

Highlighting the objectives of the ICDS scheme, the Minister said that Anganwadi centres play a vital role in improving the nutritional and health status of children, while also creating awareness among mothers regarding healthcare, balanced nutrition, immunisation and child development. He noted that the scheme aims to provide a strong foundation for the psychological, physical and social development of children, besides helping reduce malnutrition, morbidity and mortality among women and children.

Emphasising the need for further strengthening Anganwadi services, the Minister called for sustained efforts to improve their effective functioning and outreach. He assured continued government support for enhancing infrastructure, ensuring timely availability of resources and creating better working conditions for Anganwadi Workers and Helpers so that they can discharge their responsibilities efficiently.

Congratulating the newly selected workers and helpers, Javed Rana urged them to serve the people with dedication, sincerity and compassion. He encouraged them to work actively for the welfare of women and children and contribute meaningfully towards building a healthier and more aware society in their respective areas.

The programme was attended by officials of the concerned departments, local representatives and members of the public, who appreciated the government’s efforts towards strengthening grassroots welfare institutions and expanding employment opportunities in the region.

17/05/2026

*Dozens Join JKNC in Presence of Javed Rana at Sakhi Mendhar*

Mendhar, Poonch | October 5, 2026: In a significant political development in the Mendhar constituency, dozens of prominent citizens, including former PRI members, ex-servicemen, youth activists, and respected social workers, joined the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference during a grand public meeting-cum-joining function held at Saki Maidan, Mendhar.

The joining programme was conducted in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Environment & Ecology and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, who warmly welcomed the new entrants into the party fold and described the development as a strong endorsement of the National Conference’s people-centric policies and visionary leadership.

Addressing the large gathering, Javed Ahmed Rana said that the National Conference has consistently stood with the people of Pir Panjal during difficult times and has always worked for the welfare of border residents, tribals, farmers, youth and economically weaker sections of society.

He stated that the overwhelming response and massive joining programme clearly reflect the trust and confidence people have in the leadership of Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Jenab Omar Abdullah.

He assured the people of Mendhar that issues related to road connectivity, drinking water supply, healthcare, education, and employment generation would be taken up on priority and addressed in a time-bound manner.

The Minister further reiterated that the National Conference remains committed to safeguarding the democratic and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and will continue its struggle for the restoration of statehood.

He urged the new entrants to strengthen the party at the grassroots level and spread the message of peace, communal harmony, brotherhood, and development across every village and locality.

The new entrants expressed full faith in the dynamic leadership and policies of the National Conference and pledged to work tirelessly for the strengthening of the party and the welfare of the people.

Senior National Conference leaders, block presidents, Youth NC office bearers, former Sarpanches, Panches and hundreds of party workers and supporters were present on the occasion.

Those who joined the National Conference included Sadiq Hussain, Abdul Khaliq, Capt Abdul Khaliq, Capt Sabar Hussain, Mohd Younis, Abdul Khaliq, Mohd Sadeeq, Mohd Hanif, Mohd Saghir, Kalu Choudhary, Haji Nazir Hussain, Mohd Bashir, Mohd Yaqoob, Istafar Choudhary, Mohd Yassar, Mohd Sohail, Sarfraiz Hussain, Mohd Jehangir, Nazarat Hussain, Sohail Hussain, Sakib Ahmed, Z***r Ahmed, Mukhtar Hussain, Makhana, Mohd Khalid, Abdul Aziz, Mohd Naseem, Mohd Khaliq, Mohd Asif, Abdul Majeed, Mohd Iqbal Jatt Salwah, Mohd Fareed Jatt, Hav. Khursheed of Nar Mankote, Hav. Abdul Karim Jatt, Haji Shakeel Ahmad Jatt, Mohd Akram Jatt, Haji Fazal Jatt, Haji Shabir Jatt, Mohd Iqbal Jatt, Sohail Ahmed Jatt, Imran Ahmed Jatt, and Imtiaz Ahmed Jatt.

17/05/2026

*Rana listens to public grievances in Mendhar, stresses last-mile healthcare delivery through Mobile Medical Units*

Mendhar, MAY 17: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today interacted with several delegations from different areas of Mendhar and listened to their grievances, demands and developmental concerns.

The residents raised a range of issues including settlement of Forest Rights Act claims, deployment of mobile teachers in schools, macadamisation of roads and installation of street lights. They urged the Minister to expedite disposal of long-pending FRA cases and ensure that tribal and forest-dwelling communities receive their rightful entitlements. The delegations also sought deployment of mobile teachers to address staff shortages and improvement of road connectivity and street lighting in the area.

The Minister assured that all genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned departments on priority and directed officers to ensure prompt redressal of grievances through a time-bound follow-up mechanism.

Rana also reviewed the progress of ongoing development works in Mendhar and adjoining areas and directed officers to ensure timely completion of all projects without any compromise on quality. He emphasised that public expenditure must result in durable and tangible benefits for the people.

Reviewing the functioning of Mobile Medical Units (MMUs), the Minister stressed that tribal and nomadic populations living in remote areas must receive essential medical facilities and quality healthcare services at their doorsteps. He said the MMU initiative reflects the Government’s commitment towards inclusive healthcare and strengthening services in geographically challenging and underserved regions.

Reaffirming the Omar Abdullah-led Government’s commitment to equitable and inclusive development, the Minister said the focus remains on strengthening public service delivery and ensuring that the benefits of welfare and developmental schemes reach every deserving household across Jammu and Kashmir.

“The resolve of the Government is to ensure that development reaches every household, no matter how remote, with emphasis on reliable drinking water, improved irrigation, enhanced connectivity and other essential services for holistic development of far-flung areas,” he added.

Senior officers of concerned departments, public representatives and a large number of residents from Mendhar and adjoining areas were present on the occasion.

17/05/2026

*Rana Launches ₹57.98 Crore Development Push in Mendhar, Focus on Water, Irrigation and Connectivity*

_”Development will reach every household, no matter how remote,” assures Minister_

Poonch, May 17: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for a series of major development projects worth ₹57.98 crore in the Mendhar, aimed at strengthening drinking water supply, irrigation infrastructure and rural connectivity across several remote and LoC villages.

The projects include 20 Water Supply Schemes under the UT CAPEX programme with a cumulative cost of ₹51.84 crore.

These schemes are designed to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) to uncovered and underserved villages of Sub Division Mendhar ensuring access to safe and reliable drinking water for thousands of residents.

In addition, irrigation and flood control works worth ₹3.62 crore were launched to modernise and strengthen water management infrastructure in the area.

Fondation stone for construction of motorable bridge over Chattral Nallah at an estimated cost of ₹2.52 crore, was also laid which will improve road connectivity and facilitate easier access to healthcare, education and other essential services.

Among the major projects launched were the constructionof WSS Salwah (₹633.52 lakh); WSS Faizabad Awan (₹400 lakh); WSS Gursai Phase-II (₹350 lakh); WSS Karna Parat (₹295.00 lakh); WSS Jughal Nangal Gali (₹275 lakh); WSS Banola Lahi (₹250.03 lakh); Deep Drilled Tubewell Source (₹250 lakh); WSS Keri Kandi Kangra (₹225 lakh); WSS Balakot Sandote (₹215 lakh); WSS Charoon Tand (₹205.50 lakh); WSS Bareela Dharana (₹210.73 lakh); WSS Nakkar Chattral (₹169.50 lakh); WSS Pathanteer (₹150 lakh); WSS Kund Manjhari (₹145.50 lakh); WSS Bhesian Wali Chakli Dharana (₹99 lakh); WSS Kasblari (₹285 lakh); WSS Sagar Balhar Lower Devta (₹275 lakh); and WSS Prawa Dhrati Panjani (₹275 lakh).

The Minister also inaugurated the upgradation and modernisation of Kalaban Part-I & II, Chakbonala, Chajjala Left and Sagra Khul irrigation systems at a cost of ₹187.30 lakh.

Addressing a large gathering of local residents, public representatives and senior officers, Rana reaffirmed Omar Abdullah led Government’s commitment to equitable and inclusive development, particularly in remote and border areas that have long remained underserved.

He emphasised that access to safe drinking water, efficient irrigation and better connectivity are essential for improving the quality of life and ensuring sustainable socio-economic development in far-flung areas.

“These projects are not merely infrastructure works; they reflect the resolve of the Omar Abdullah-led Government to ensure that development reaches every household, every field and every corner, no matter how remote,” the Minister said.

Highlighting the importance of responsible water management, Rana said that the creation of infrastructure must go hand in hand with conservation and efficient use of water resources.

“Providing water is only half the task; managing and conserving it is equally important. Water saved is water earned, and every community must treat this infrastructure as a shared public asset,” he added.

The Minister directed the executing agencies to ensure timely completion of all projects while strictly maintaining quality standards.

He stressed the need for continuous monitoring and accountability so that the benefits of these schemes reach the people without unnecessary delay.

Speaking about the irrigation component, Rana noted that the modernisation of canals and khuls would help farmers enhance agricultural productivity, minimise water losses and improve irrigation efficiency.

He added that flood protection measures would also safeguard agricultural land and residential areas during heavy rains and flash floods.

As part of the connectivity initiative, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the construction of a 60-metre (2×30 metre span) single-lane plate girder motorable bridge over Chattral Nallah on the SK Road.

The bridge, being constructed under the Bridge Sector Permanent Restoration 2025–26 programme by the Public Works (R&B) Department, is expected to significantly improve accessibility in the area.

Underlining the significance of the bridge project, Rana said that residents of Chattral had faced hardships for years due to the absence of a proper motorable crossing.

“This bridge will not only ease daily travel for residents but will also open new avenues for economic activity, ensure timely access to healthcare and education, and strengthen the connectivity of this remote region with the rest of Mendhar,” he said.

“Among the major projects launched the Minister also laid the foundation stone for the construction of the PHE Division Mendhar office complex including Irrigation Subdivision Mendhar under UT CAPEX at an estimated cost of ₹174.91 lakh, to be executed by Jal Shakti (I&FC) Division Poonch. The new facility will strengthen institutional capacity and improve planning, monitoring and implementation of water supply and irrigation projects across the sub-division.

The Minister reiterated that the Government remains committed to addressing the long-pending infrastructure needs of border and far-flung areas and that no region would be left behind in the ongoing journey of development.

He observed that the projects launched today fulfil several long-standing demands of the people of Mendhar and adjoining areas and would contribute significantly to the socio-economic upliftment of the area.

Senior officers from the Jal Shakti Department, Irrigation & Flood Control Department, district administration, local representatives and a large number of residents attended the programme.

16/05/2026

*Rana visits family of Late Tahir Fazal Kasana, Pays rich tributes*

Poonch (Surankote), May 16: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Environment & Ecology and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today visited the residence of Late Tahir Fazal Kasana at Murrah, Surankote to offer condolences and express solidarity with the bereaved family in their hour of grief.

During the visit, the Minister met the family members of the deceased and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies over the irreparable loss.

He prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and for strength and courage to the family to bear this profound sorrow.

Paying tributes to Late Tahir Fazal, Rana recalled his courageous contribution in combating militancy in the Hillkaka area during difficult times.

He said Late Tahir Fazal played an important role in restoring peace and stability in the region and his services and sacrifices would always be remembered with respect and gratitude.

The Minister also assured the bereaved family of all possible support from the Government, stating that the sacrifices made by brave citizens like Late Tahir Fazal for peace and stability in the region can never be forgotten.