SRINAGAR: As the vibrant festival of Baisakhi approaches, top leaders and administrative bodies across Jammu and Kashmir have extended warm greetings and geared up preparations to ensure a smooth and joyous celebration for all communities.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in his message to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, described Baisakhi as a festival of immense cultural and agrarian significance. “Baisakhi symbolises the harvesting of hard labour and the spirit of celebrating it with harmony and brotherhood, adding vibrant colours to the festivity,” he said. Highlighting that the festival marks the beginning of the New Year in the Indian calendar and heralds the harvesting season in northern India, the Chief Minister said that such festivals help strengthen the bonds of love and promote amity in society. He also prayed for peace, prosperity and the overall well-being of the people on this auspicious occasion.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also conveyed his greetings, underlining the spiritual and historical importance of Baisakhi. “It is a pious occasion to express our deep gratitude to ‘Annadata’ farmers and honour their invaluable contribution to the progress of the nation,” he said, noting that the day also commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He urged the people to uphold the principles of righteousness, selfless service, and unity exemplified by the Guru.
Meanwhile, the administration has swung into action to ensure seamless arrangements for the celebrations. In Srinagar, intensified market inspections were carried out by the Food Safety and Drug Control Organisation around Gurdwaras and Mughal Gardens. The operation, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, resulted in penalties for multiple food vendors for violating safety norms. Ten food business operators (FBOs) were compounded under the Food Safety and Standards Act, and fines totalling Rs 11,000 were imposed on four of them.
Officials also conducted awareness sessions with FBOs, reinforcing the importance of hygiene and safety in food handling, especially during the festive period. Citizens were encouraged to report any food safety violations via the toll-free helpline 104.
At the administrative level, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, held a comprehensive review meeting with Deputy Commissioners and officials from various departments to assess arrangements at key Gurdwaras and Sikh habitations. The Div Com laid particular emphasis on Gurdwara Chatti Padshahi in Rainawari, Srinagar, instructing for continuous water and power supply, improved sanitation, traffic management, medical aid, and fire safety provisions.
Deputy Commissioners were directed to ensure coordination among departments for the smooth conduct of the festivities, with district-level briefings indicating readiness for the celebrations.
As communities across the region prepare to mark Baisakhi with devotion and celebration, the combined efforts of civic bodies, local authorities, and leaders have laid the foundation for a peaceful and festive atmosphere.
