Principal Secretary to Government, Department of Culture & School Education Department visits District Library at Samba Fort: Reviews Phase 1 Work and Emphasizes Heritage Preservation and Modernization

November 2, 2024, Samba: Principal Secretary to Government, Department of Culture & School Education Department Sh Suresh Kumar Gupta, visited the District Library located within the historic Samba Fort today, reviewing modernization and facility enhancement efforts aimed at better serving students and the community. He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Samba, Rajesh Sharma; Director Archives, Archaeology, and Museums, Mr. K.K. Sidha, JKAS; CEO; XEN PWD; officials from the Municipal Committee; and other officers.

During the inspection, Principal Secretary Gupta toured key areas of the library, including reading rooms, senior citizens’ sections, and designated spaces for children and students. He engaged closely with library staff and patrons to understand their needs, particularly regarding library resources and facility maintenance.

A significant focus of the visit was a review of Phase 1 work in Samba Fort, centered on modernizing the library while preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage. Principal Secretary Gupta, along with Director Archives Mr. K.K. Sidha, emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in safeguarding historic manuscripts and resources as part of the library’s restoration and modernization projects.

Principal Secretary Gupta highlighted the library’s critical role in cultural preservation and stressed the need to retain the fort’s historic character while enhancing the District Library to meet evolving community needs. He proposed a phased redevelopment plan that includes constructing a new building to improve visitor experiences and further support the educational and cultural aspirations of Samba’s residents.

He assured his continued support for the library’s development, pledging commitment to the timely completion of restoration and modernization efforts that honor and sustain the region’s invaluable heritage.
The principal secretary, also took an overview of the education sector in the district especially the deficiency of Teaching faculty at various levels. He further imparted directions to the Chief education Officer samba to ensure quality education is provided in government schools and preparing these students to excel in competitive exams also.