Omar administers integrity pledge to ministers, officials

With the commencement of the Vigilance Awareness Week-2024, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who administered the integrity pledge on Monday, said the newly elected government has made a “firm pledge to create a governance system rooted in integrity, fairness, and honesty.”

The pledge ceremony took place at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar which was attended by administrative secretaries along with all departmental officers, said an official spokesperson.

He said the officers stationed at Jammu joined through video conference from the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, while Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Heads of Departments, and hundreds of schools participated from their district headquarters, ensuring widespread engagement across the region.

According to officials, the departments also organised similar pledge-taking ceremonies “for their employees, further demonstrating their commitment to uphold integrity at all levels of public service.”

In his address, Chief Minister Abdullah said he takes great pride in reaffirming his unwavering commitment to a corruption-free Jammu and Kashmir. “Eradicating corruption is more than a priority; it is a mission that drives us to introduce bold reforms, strengthen oversight, and empower citizens. Our goal is to build a governance model where every resource is utilised for the public good,” he said.

He emphasised the relevance of this year’s theme, “Culture of integrity for nation’s prosperity,” and noted that “Integrity is the cornerstone of any successful nation, and its impact on growth, welfare and progress is undeniable.”

“Our mission is simple yet profound, to serve with honour and ensure that every decision benefits the people we represent,” he added.

Abdullah urged all participants to engage actively in the initiatives organised during the Vigilance Awareness Week, being observed from October 28 to November 3.

“Together, we can work toward a future of justice, equity, and shared prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir. This event serves as a vital reminder that integrity is not merely a principle to be discussed but a practice to be lived,” he said.