Engage stakeholders to formalise J&K’s Cultural Policy: CM

Jammu, Dec 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday called for engaging the stakeholders to formalise Jammu and Kashmir’s Cultural Policy.

Chairing a review meeting of the Department of Culture at the civil secretariat here that focused on revitalising Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage and infrastructure, the CM urged the department to consult stakeholders about the need for a comprehensive Cultural Policy for J&K.

“Engage with the stakeholders to formalise a robust cultural policy,” he said.

CM Omar emphasised the original vision behind the conceptualisation of Tehzeeb Mahal in Srinagar, underscoring its role in promoting local artists.

“Tehzeeb Mahal must serve as a space where artists can showcase their talent while preserving its core theme. Wherever possible, the available space should be expanded to align with this vision,” he said.

The CM also directed the department to revive the restoration of Naagar Nagar at the foothills of Hari Parbat, a project halted a decade ago, to save its deteriorating walls.

He also called for immediate filling of departmental vacancies to ensure seamless functioning.

Earlier, Principal Secretary Culture presented a detailed overview of the department’s functioning, highlighting its initiatives through directorates such as Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Libraries and Research, and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages.

The progress on various key projects was reviewed, including the restoration of the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex and archival repositories.

The meeting was informed about the digitisation of archival records which has been fully completed in Jammu and is 50 percent complete in Srinagar, with 6 lakh records being shifted to a new facility near Kala Kendra at a cost of Rs 7.2 crore.

The meeting also discussed the 100-day target for cultural and heritage development in Srinagar and Jammu.

The key initiatives include the operationalisation of a new archival repository, the modernisation of the S R S Library under the Smart City Project, the restoration of 16 heritage sites, and the completion of several library and cultural infrastructure projects.

A special presentation on Tehzeeb Mahal gave details of its design, architectural heritage revival, and cultural elements, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting J&K’s rich legacy.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Santosh D Vaidya, Principal Secretary Culture Suresh Gupta, and Secretary PWD attended the meeting while Kashmir-based officers joined via video conferencing.