Srinagar Civil Secretariat Reopens as Omar Abdullah Receives Guard of Honour

SRINAGAR, May 4 — Chief Minister Omar Abdullah received a warm reception and a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Civil Secretariat today as government offices officially reopened in the summer capital.

The relocation marks the continuation of the annual Darbar Move, which resumed last year to ensure a renewed continuity of governance across Jammu and Kashmir.

Following the conclusion of the six-month winter session in Jammu, all primary government departments have transitioned to Srinagar to begin their summer operations.

The General Administration Department previously coordinated the closure of Jammu-based offices in late April and early May to facilitate this administrative shift. While approximately 38 departments have moved their full operations to Srinagar, several others will maintain a presence in Jammu on a camp basis with limited staff.

The administration conducted extensive preparatory work, including infrastructure repairs and road maintenance, to ensure a seamless transition between the two capitals.

Working hours for the Secretariat in Srinagar have been established from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, while other provincial offices will operate from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.

A summer secretariat will also remain functional in Jammu to provide uninterrupted service to the public in that region.

The bi-annual Darbar Move remains a significant administrative tradition designed to keep the government accessible to citizens in both the Kashmir and Jammu provinces.

By shifting the seat of power based on seasonal requirements, the administration aims to balance regional governance and maintain a steady presence throughout the union territory.