Truck Driver Found Dead Under Mysterious Circumstances

SRINAGAR: A truck driver was found dead under mysterious circumstances near Jawahar Tunnel along the Jammu-Srinagar highway on the intervening night of Sunday-Monday.

A police official told the news agency KNO that a truck driver identified as Manzoor Ahmed Lone, son of Abdul Rehman Lone from Dalgate, Srinagar was on his way to Kashmir.

He said the driver was found dead under mysterious conditions inside his truck at around 01:30 hours.

He was later rushed to Sub District Hospital (SDH) Banihal where doctors declared him brought dead, an official said.

“Subsequently, a case under 174 CrPc has been registered and further investigation has been taken up,” the police official said.

He said apparently it seems that the man has died due to “cardiac arrest”.

 

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India Reports 15,510 New COVID-19 Cases, Tally Reaches 1,11,12,241

SRINAGAR: Fresh Covid-19 cases are showing a worrying upward trend over the last two weeks. Single-day rise of 15,510 new Covid cases reported in the last 24 hours pushed India’s tally to 1,11,12,241 on Monday, while 106 fatalities mounted the death toll to 1,57,157, the Union Health Ministry said.

The positivity rate has been rising gradually, pushing it to 1.52 per cent. As per the Ministry’s data, there are 1,68,627 active cases at present after 11,288 patients were discharged in a day.

The experts have expressed a number of possibilities which could be owed to the stride ranging from lax attitude of people towards following Covid protocols to likeability of “mutations and new strains” causing the surge, as has been studied by the laboratories involved in Covid detection across the country.

In mid February, officials had said that the average daily new infections oscillated between 9,000 to 12,000 while the deaths were between 78 to 120.

On February 9, India had reported 9,110 new cases, the lowest this year so far. Last year, the lowest 9,633 cases were recorded on June 3.

Till now, 1,07,86,457 persons have been discharged so far. The recovery rate has reduced to 97.07 per cent.

Last week, around 90 per cent of the weekly average cases came from six states — Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Karnataka and Gujarat. Central teams have been rushed to these states as well.

The Ministry also informed that 6,27,668 samples were tested on Sunday. The cumulative tests done by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) so far stands at 21,68,58,774.

So far, 1,43,01,266 doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for ‘Covishield’ and ‘Covaxin’.

The third phase of vaccination against Covid pandemic began on Monday covering 27 crore people above 60 and those above 45 years of age with comorbidities at 10,000 government and over 20,000 private vaccination centres. While people will be vaccinated free of cost at government hospitals, those taking the shots at private hospitals will have to pay. (IANS)

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Weather Improves Across Kashmir After Six Days

SRINAGAR: People heaved a sigh of relief following improvement in the weather conditions across Kashmir after six days on Monday.

Bright sunshine was seen in Jammu and Kashmir after a snowfall and rain.

“Weather is likely to remain dry during the next 48 hours in J&K and Ladakh with the minimum temperatures likely to drop by a few notches during this period while the maximum temperatures are expected to rise,” an official of the MET department said.

Gulmarg in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the Valley where the minimum temperature was minus 6.2 degrees.

Srinagar, the summer capital of the J&K recorded a low of 1.4 while the mercury in Qazigund in south Kashmir settled at a low of 4.0 degrees Celsius.

The night temperature in Pahalgam – the famous tourist place settled at a low of 0.7 degrees.

Kokernag town recorded a low of 2.6 degrees Celsius while Kupwara town in north Kashmir registered a low of 0.4 degrees Celsius last night.

Jammu city recorded 11.3 degrees Celsius, Katra 9.8, Batote minus 5.9, Banihal recorded 6.3 and Bhaderwah recorded 4.1 degrees Celsius as the night’s lowest temperatures.

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SSB Man Attempts Suicide, Hospitalized

SRINAGAR: A Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) man allegedly attempted to commit suicide on Monday after he shot himself with his service rifle in Srinagar, officials said.

Officials told the news agency KNO that SSB man identified as Ct gd Gagan Jha, son of Suboth Jha who was posted at State Motor Garage Bemina shot himself with his service rifle.

He was immediately referred to JVC Bemina for treatment.

More details awaited.

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Tourist Dies Of Cardiac Arrest

SRINAGAR: A tourist from Madhya Pradesh died after suffering a massive cardiac arrest in Srinagar on Monday morning.

An official told the news agency KNO that Pankaj Gupta son of Ashok Gupta, a resident of Madhya Pradesh was found lying unconscious at Hotel Ibni Gani in Munawarabad locality of Srinagar today morning

He said that Gupta was rushed to Khyber Hospital for treatment, where he died due to a massive heart attack.

The official said that after completion of legal formalities, the body of the deceased would be flown back to Madhya Pradesh.

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Briefing February 28 – March 6, 2021

GULMARG

Artists perform at the inaugural function of the 2nd Khelo India National Winter Games, at the ski resort of Gulmarg, Friday, February 26, 2021. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur

Unlike previous years when the tourism industry in Kashmir suffered a severe dent, the tourist footfalls, mostly domestic came as a relief to the hospitality sector. This year’s snowfall brought with it a huge influx of tourists across the country and the tourism department also busied itself with sports events, winter festivals, adventure related activities, Bollywood celeb visits. Lately, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg and said that the event is a step towards making Jammu and Kashmir a hub of winter sports. Athletes from 27 states and Union Territories are competing in the games which will conclude on March 2. He was addressing over 600 participants including international players through virtual mode. Khelo India International Games Festival, Prime Minister said signifies that Jammu and Kashmir is touching new heights in peace and development. Meanwhile, Sonmarg was thrown open amid reports that Dal Lake is among 12 sites termed iconic tourist destinations.

 KULGAM

Muslims perform the last rites of Sikh man in south Kashmir’s Kulgam on Thursday, February 25, 2021. KL Image: Special Arrangement

In remote Damhal Hanjipora, when Surinder Singh, 75, died at his Pombay residence, the locals gathered instantly to ensure a decent funeral of the senior citizen. Quite a few people from minority community live in the village and the locals gathered to ensure the mourning family does not face a problem. This, however, is nothing new. Elders from Sikh and Pandit minorities who stayed back and died were mostly created by their neighbours.

 REASI

It was a miraculous escape for Secretary Rural Development and four of his colleagues when the chopper they were flying in developed some technical crisis and had to make an emergency landing. They were flying from Reasi to Kishtwar when the snag interrupted the flight. The flying machine landed at Jyoti Puram in Reasi. One official survived with some injuries and all others were safe.

SRINAGAR

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti Wednesday addressing a press conference at her residence in Srinagar. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur

Last week when the PDP announced that Mehbooba Mufti was re-elected as the party president, it triggered a barrage of commentary. A social media post said: “OK, you are the president, but where is the party?” A newspaper cartoon showed Mehbooba Mufti taking the crown from her head and placed on her replica image. This sade commentary was indicative of the state of politics that Kashmir is witnessing. PDP, off late, has faced a chain of defections to create the Apni Party. Its leader’s continue to desert the party. The last one who quit the party was Peer Mansoor. Those who have not left are either keeping a low profile or rest in detention.

KISHTWAR

An alto car bearing registration number JK 06-8421 met with an accident near Gujjar Hostel in Chatroo area of Kishtwar district on Sunday, February 21, 2021

A pall of gloom descended in Kishtwar when in a tragic road accident a family lost its three members. The vehicle they were travelling in skidded off the road and fell 300 feet down the gorge when they were on their way from Doda to Chingam. When it reached Gujjar Hostel Chatroo, the driver lost control over the steering near a curve. A woman, her son and her daughter were killed. The roads in Chenab region are notorious for road accidents as the area is hilly, roads are in bad shape and people are speeding or taking norms for a ride.

SRINAGAR

Representational picture

The speculations, queries, anxieties of class 10 students were finally answered when Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE), declared results on February 26. As soon as results were declared, the phones did not stop to ring. The sweet shops witnessed a rush as relatives, neighbours, and friends poured in to congratulate teachers and students. This year, as pandemic prevented students from attending the schools and forced to avail slow speed internet, the overall pass percentage was recorded at 75 per cent with girls outdoing boys by the slightest margin. The pass percentage of boys stood at 74.04 per cent while those of females was 76.09 per cent. 75132 students – 38340 boys and 36792 girls had written their examinations of whom 56384 were declared as qualified. But the morning turned out to be mourning for many as 18626 students who failed.

KASHMIR

The seasoned twigs sorted and graded, ready for sale. It is the basic raw material in wicker works. KL Image: Bilal Bahadur

Kashmir Willow Wicker products are set to eye a larger market through e-commerce platforms like Amazon and  Myntra under the World Bank-funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP). For the Willow Wicker Project Ganderbal, domain expert having vast experience in working with natural plant fibres KADAM has been engaged in the development of the cluster. The project will lead to the creation of self -sustaining Producer Company (PC) of the artisans that would be directly linked to the markets. Besides, under the Willow Wicker Project self-sustainable enterprises of the artisans which would be connected with the markets at national and international levels would be created.

LAGRIPORA

a file photo of Suhail Ahmad Ahangar, the cop who was killed in Baghat attack in Srinagar on Friday, February 19, 2021.

Suhail Ahanger, one of the two cops who were killed in a hit and run attack by militants in Baghat, was orphaned when he was seven months old. His father, Mushtaq, was gone missing during the early days of militancy in October 1990 much before Suhail was born. Interestingly, he had been deputed to Srinagar – after being transferred from Jammu only two days before his killing. Now his two minor sons are in the same state as he himself was. Suhail was raised by his grandfather, Muhammad Abdullah. Mushtaq was a floor mill employee where the security forces were also camping and was being frequently questioned.

LAL CHOWK

A day after the foreign envoys visit concluded, the Baghat attack triggered yet another debate – the abuse of Pheran, the Kashmir cloak that is part of the dress and a cultural symbol, by militants, As muscular voices about banning the garment were broadcast, there was an instant response – a few officers of the paramilitary forced some commuters to remove pherans. On social media, pictures were flooded with instances in Lal Chowk and Hari Singh High Street where pedestrians were asked to remove the traditional cloak. Historically the garment was denounced as Mughal design to induce laziness in Kashmir while this is for the first time, the new narrative frames it as a weapon.

GANDERBAL

In a gruesome and shocking crime, a doctor and five of his “associates” were arrested for the illegal termination of the pregnancy of a minor girl. The girl was subjected to the compulsive delivery of the baby by a doctor, which could have killed the infant. Cops overseeing the investigations said the victim girl revealed that her family members took her to the accused doctor’s clinic in Sopore for abortion.

BANIHAL

Train service resumes In Kashmir valley after 11 months on Monday February 22,2021. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur

The Kashmir train running between Banihal and Baramulla is back to business, almost a year after it stopped operations. Traversing a distance of 137 km, the train has 17 stations on the route which wore a deserted look for more than 11 months.  Following the Covid-19 pandemic and even before the rail services was suspended on March 19, 2020. But the train service in Kashmir has been witness to sudden screeches and halting. Earlier, the train service was suspended in August 2019 after the reading down of Article 370. The service was subsequently restored after 100 days. Similarly, in 2016, after the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani, the services remained suspended for over six months.

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Peaceful Struggle Imperative For Restoration Of Our Rights: Mehbooba Mufti

SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti advocated an unrelenting peaceful struggle for the restoration of democratic and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Mehbooba Mufti addressing party workers in Pulwama

Addressing a convention of senior party workers of District Pulwama, Mehbooba said that the people of Kashmir should not let despair decide their destiny but rather strengthen their resolve, unify their ranks and articulate their pain vociferously. Referring to the fact that more youngsters were taking to gun, she emphasized that gun is no solution to any problem and that we should always keep peaceful means as our lodestar and not lose sight of the fact that there are elements who wish to bracket us as violent and extremist so as to delegitimize our aspirations and our struggle.

Pointing to how farmers have mobilized and successfully rallied the whole world behind their cause, she said that the discipline underpinning the farmer’s movement is something worth emulating.

“Apart from robbing us of our constitutional rights we have witnessed the loot of our resources and our economy being crushed. The Horticulture sector which forms the backbone of our economy has not been spared either.  By allowing apple produce from Iran to flood the market & our own crop destroyed by supply of spurious pesticides, the nefarious designs are being implemented. This also seems to be a part of the scripted scheme to pulverize our economy. The need is to stand up in unison and struggle for our rights, identity and the future of our coming generations,” she said.

Thanking the party workers for their unflinching support to the party she lauded their efforts that culminated in a robust win for the party in the recently concluded DDC elections in the district.

“Pulwama is the heartbeat of PDP and your unwavering support is the source of personal strength to me. And my first visit to your district after being re-elected as the party president is a reaffirmation of my love for you,” she said.

Reaffirming that dialogue and reconciliation as envisioned by PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, is the only way to bring about peace and prosperity not only to the people of J&K but the whole of subcontinent, Mehbooba said that they she would continue to advocate dialogue between India and Pakistan no matter how disliked the idea be with some vested interests.

“We have always advocated dialogue and reconciliation. No matter what they said till yesterday, today we see them only emulating our roadmap as inevitable. The recent joint statement of DGMOs of Indo-Pak Armies is a case in point. We want them to take this forward to the highest levels and also engage with the people of Jammu & Kashmir constructively respecting their dignity,” she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Party General Secretary G N Lone Hanjura castigated the administration for camouflaging the expression of public resentment.

“What sense does it make to put a cap on the number of our workers who would participate in this convention or even the use of a public address system? Is this the Naya Kashmir they boasted of,” he asked.

Senior party leaders who addressed the convention included former minister Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Party Spokesman Syed Suhail Bukhari, Chairman District Development Board Chairman Bari Andrabi, Members of DDC Pulwama DR Harbaksh Singh, Abdul Qayoom Mir, Manzoor Ahmad, Meema Akhtar & Tazeem.

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Srinagar-Leh Road Reopened After 58 Days

SRINAGAR: After remaining closed for nearly two months due to snow, the strategically important Srinagar-Leh highway was opened on Sunday.

A view of Leh highway on February 28, 2021. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur

The only surface link between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, the road is a lifeline for the economic development of the people of Ladakh and for moving supplies for the security forces.

It was opened after a gap of 58 days despite a fresh spell of snow at the Zojila pass. The road opening is a big challenge for the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) due to threats of avalanches, inclement weather and heavy snow accumulation.

“It is for the first time that the Zojila pass has been opened so early. This will connect Ladakh with the mainland and provide a lot of dividends to the people and troops deployed in the region,” BRO DG, Lt Gen Rajeev Choudhary, said.

Snow cutter clearing snow from Srinagar-Leh highway on Sunday, February 28, 2021. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur

He said the BRO is geared up to meet all the challenges of inclement weather and snow, adding that due to the efforts of the BRO, the road connectivity between the Valley and Ladakh has been extended by at least one-and-a-half months. (IANS)

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48-Year-Old Woman’s Body Found In Poonch

SRINAGAR: A 48-year-old woman’s body was recovered from Boniketh Surankote area in Poonch on Sunday.

Official sources identified her as Hajra Begum wife of Abdul Hamid of Bhonikhet  Surankote.

Police said initial reports suggest that she was trying to cross river near Boniketh from a small bridge and fell down in nallah.

Locals however said that the death was mysterious and demanded a probe into it.

DySP Surankote Abdul Khalid confirmed the death to news agency GNS and said that inquest proceedings under 174 CrpC have been initiated.

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JK Reports 58 New COVID-19 Cases, One Death

SRINAGAR: The Government on Sunday informed that 58 new positive cases of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), 11 from Jammu division and 47 from the Kashmir division, have been reported today, thus taking the total number of positive cases in Jammu and Kashmir to 126441. Also 01 COVID-19 death has been reported from Kashmir Division.

Moreover, 62 more COVID-19 patients have recovered and discharged from various hospitals including 09 from Jammu Division and 53 from Kashmir Division.

According to the daily Media Bulletin on novel Coronavirus (Covid-19), out of 126441 positive cases, 823 are Active Positive, 123661 have recovered and 1957 have died; 725 in Jammu division and 1232 in Kashmir division.

The Bulletin further said that out of 5201665 test results available, 5075224 samples have been tested as negative till February 28, 2021.

Till date 1307198 persons have been enlisted for observation which included 33618 persons in home quarantine including facilities operated by government, 823 in isolation and 108210 in home surveillance. Besides, 1162590 persons have completed their surveillance period.

Providing district-wise breakup, the Bulletin said that Srinagar has 27019 positive cases (including 28 cases reported today) with 344 Active Positive, 26214 recovered (including 27 cases recovered today), 461 deaths; Baramulla has 8260 positive cases (including 05 cases reported today) with 84 Active Positive, 8001 recovered (including 08 cases recovered today), 175 deaths; Budgam reported 7881 positive cases (including 01 case reported today) with 31 active positive cases, 7730 recovered (including 04 cases recovered today), 120 deaths; Pulwama has 5857 positive cases (including 02 cases reported today) with 36 Active Positive, 5731 recovered (including 06 cases recovered today) and 90 deaths; Kupwara has 5686 positive cases (including 03 cases reported today), 12 Active Positive, 5577 recoveries (including 02 cases recovered today), 97 deaths;  Anantnag district has 5018 positive cases (including 02 cases reported today) with 36 Active Positive, 4896 recovered (including 05 cases recovered today), 86 deaths;  Bandipora has 4718 positive cases (including 02 cases reported today) with 20 Active Positive and 4636 recoveries, 62 deaths; Ganderbal has 4670 positive cases (including 02 cases reported today)  with 14 Active Positive, 4609 recoveries and 47deaths; Kulgam has 2731 positive cases 18 Active Positive, 2659 recoveries (including 01 case recovered today) and 54 deaths while as Shopian has 2608 positive cases (including 02 cases reported today) with 21 active positive cases, 2547 recoveries and 40 deaths.

Similarly, Jammu has 25228 positive cases (including 11 cases reported today) with 118 active positive cases, 24737 recoveries (including 03 cases recovered today), 373 deaths; Udhampur has 4313 positive cases with 64 active positive, 4192 recoveries (including 06 cases recovered today) and 57 deaths; Rajouri has 3876 positive cases with 02 active positive, 3819 recoveries and 55 deaths; Doda has 3438 positive cases with 02 Active positive, 3372 recovered and 64 deaths; Kathua has 3260 positive cases with 04 active positive cases, 3203 recovered and 53 deaths; Kishtwar has 2738 positive cases with 05 Active Positive, 2711 recoveries and 22 deaths; Samba has 2839 positive cases with 07 active positive cases, 2792 recoveries and 40 deaths; Poonch has 2520 positive cases with 05 active positive, 2491 recoveries and 24 deaths; Ramban has 2135 positive cases with no active positive case, 2114 recoveries and 21 deaths while Reasi has 1646 positive with no active positive case, 1630 recoveries and 16 deaths.

According to the bulletin, among the total 126441 positive cases in J&K, 12329 have been reported as travelers while 114112 as others.

The Bulletin said that the breakup represents districts from which the patients have been traced or are ordinarily residing.

The bulletin added that there are 1091 COVID dedicated beds, 962 Isolation beds with 957 vacant beds and 129 ICU beds where 123 beds are vacant in Jammu division while there are 1570 COVID dedicated beds, 1484 Isolation beds where 1419 beds are vacant and 86 ICU beds where 76 are vacant beds in Kashmir division. There are a total of 2661 COVID dedicated beds, 2446 Isolation beds with 2376 beds vacant and 215 ICU beds with 199 vacant beds in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The government has also started free tele-consultation general OPD services by Specialists/MBBS Doctors for the residents of J&K under National Tele-consultation Service. People can avail these services from Home by registering online on web portal  https://ift.tt/2YXoEWE. The services are available on Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. People can also download and install esanjeevani OPD app from google play store.

Besides, 24×7 Rapid Antigen Testing facility for COVID-19 has been started outside the emergency of GMC Hospital Jammu. The facility will be very useful for segregation of patients in emergency wing of GMC Jammu.

Meanwhile, a 24×7 COVID Control Room has been set up for redressal of the grievances related to COVID-19 positive patients admitted in the Associated Hospitals of Government Medical College, Jammu and Government Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. Patients or attendants can call at 0191– 258 5444 (Control Room), Exchange: 0191-258 2626 / 258 5542 / 258 4290 /258 4291 / 258 4292 / 258 4293/ 258 4294 for assistance.

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JK Admin Issues 22 Lakh Golden Cards Of Health Insurance Scheme Within Two Months

SRINAGAR: In what could be the game-changer for the development of health care services in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, more than 22000 free and cashless treatments have been provided to eligible beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) SEHAT scheme in the first two months.

The scheme was launched by Prime Minister on December 26, 2020 and it aims to provide Universal Health Insurance Coverage of Rs. 5.00 lakh per family on a floater basis in convergence with central government’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).

Since the launch of the scheme, more than 30 Lakh residents of Jammu and Kashmir have already registered under the scheme, covering about 56% of the families. Under the scheme, in the first two months, 22.05 Lakh Golden cards have been issued to eligible beneficiaries in addition to 13.28 Lakh Golden Cards already issued under AB PM-JAY. Under AB PM-JAY, about 70% of the eligible families have been registered.

For the ease of the beneficiaries, the government has started registrations for the scheme in all empanelled hospitals besides a network of more than 5000 Common Service Centres (CSCs) has been established for this purpose.

Speaking regarding the scheme, Financial Commissioner, Health & Medical Education Department, Atal Dulloo said, “AB PM-JAY SEHAT Scheme is one of the most ambitious schemes of Government of Jammu & Kashmir and it is heartening to see residents availing free and cashless benefits from reputed empanelled hospitals of Jammu & Kashmir under this scheme.” He added that the residents of Jammu and Kashmir have already started availing benefits under the scheme from reputed hospitals from outside also.

Giving details about the benefits availed by the beneficiaries under the scheme, Atal Dulloo said that since the launch of the scheme, more than 450 patients have already availed benefits in empanelled hospitals from outside J&K using portability feature of AB PM-JAY scheme.

Ankita (name changed), 67 years old from a remote village of Baramulla was admitted in American Oncology Centre, a Private Empanelled Hospital in Jammu for cancer treatment. She was provided with free and cashless treatment under AB PM-JAY SEHAT. Another patient, Neelam (name changed) was treated at Khyber Medical Institute Srinagar and was operated upon at the facility for treatment of heart disorder and was provided free treatment worth Rs. 3.00 Lakhs.

Similarly, another person Mandeep (name changed), 56 years old, from District Kathua received free and cashless services worth Rs. 3.40 lakhs at Indus International Hospital Punjab under AB PMJAY SEHAT. The patient was suffering from a heart disease. Another patient Rashid (name changed), 67 years old from Srinagar underwent Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi free of cost.

Apart from benefits availed in private empanelled hospitals, utilization of benefits under this scheme in Government Empanelled Hospitals is also encouraging. A patient, Waseem (name changed), from Ganderbal received treatment worth Rs. 2.09 Lakhs free of cost from SKIMS Soura.  Similarly, one more patient, Atul (name changed), suffering from heart disease received treatment worth 2.80 Lakhs free of cost from Narayana Hospital, Katra.

This ambitious health insurance scheme is going to be the game changer as far as provision of health-care services is concerned. It will on one hand help residents of J&K to avail quality health care services and on the other hand will strengthen and streamline the supply-side in health service delivery paradigm.

Pertinently, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) SEHAT in convergence with PM-JAY aims to provide Universal Health Insurance Coverage of Rs. 5.00 lakh per family on a floater basis. AB PM-JAY SEHAT has the same benefits as available under AB-PMJAY. This scheme covers all residents of Jammu and Kashmir including employees/pensioners of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and their families. AB PM-JAY-SEHAT in convergence with PM-JAY provides cashless access to health care services for the beneficiary at the point of service.

AB PM-JAY SEHAT in convergence with PM-JAY envisions to mitigate expenditure on medical treatment to all the residents of Jammu & Kashmir. It covers up to 3 days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days post-hospitalization expenses such as diagnostics and medicines. There is no restriction on the family size, age or gender. All pre-existing conditions are covered from day one. Benefits of the scheme are portable across the country as such beneficiaries can visit any of the 24000 empanelled public or private hospitals (including 229 hospitals empanelled within Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir) under AB PM-JAY in India to avail cashless treatment.

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Muslims Help Perform Last Rites Of Kashmiri Pandit

SRINAGAR: The  Muslim brethren on Sunday helped perform the last rites of an elderly Kashmiri Pandit woman in Tarhama Kunzar village of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Muslims help perform last rites of Kashmiri pandit in Kunzar area of Tangmarg on February 28, 2021

Reports said that as soon as the news of the 65-year-old Kashmiri pandit woman’s death spread in the area, the members of the Muslim community came together to help the Kashmiri Pandit family in performing her last rites.

The local Muslims and surrounding neighbours visited the home of the deceased to express their condolences with the deceased family, reported news agency KNO.

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Srinagar-Jammu Highway: Traffic Advisory For Tomorrow

SRINAGAR: Traffic Department on Sunday said that on March 1, 2021, subject to fair weather and better road condition only one-way traffic shall be allowed from Srinagar towards Jammu.

According to the advisory, TCU Srinagar shall liaise with TCU Ramban before releasing the traffic.

“LMVs will have to cross Zig Qazigund from 07:00 am to 11:00 am and no vehicle shall be allowed after cut off timing,” it said

It said that only stranded heavy motor vehicles between Jawahar Tunnel and Banihal shall be allowed towards Jammu.

“Government Forces are advised/requested not to ply against advisory/traffic plan in view of traffic congestion on Jammu-Srinagar NHW. They may ply from Srinagar towards Jammu after confirming the status of highway,” it added.

The historic Mughal Road and SSG Road is closed due to snow accumulation, reads the advisory.

It said that the Srinagar-Leh highway is closed by the J&K Government vide Divisional Commissioner Kashmir’s order No. 400/2020 dated 30-12-2020 till further orders.

People have been advised not to travel on the highway without confirming the status of the road from phone numbers Jammu (0191-2459048, 9419147732), Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396,18001807091), Ramban (9419993745) and Udhampur (8491928625).

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Three Days After Death, Body Of BDO Airlifted From Gurez

SRINAGAR: Three days after his death, the body of a senior officer of the Rural Development Department (RDD) who died while performing his duty in Tulail area of Gurez on Friday, was airlifted from Gurez on Sunday afternoon.

Three days after death, body of BDO airlifted from Gurez

An official told the news agency KNO, that a Block Development Officer (BDO), identified as Abdul Saleem Darzi of Anantnag, posted at Tulail had collapsed while he was on duty.

He said the officer was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival, However, the body was not immediately airlifted from Gurez due to bad weather conditions.

The official said that the body was airlifted today via an army helicopter from Tulail to Sonerwani helipad, from where the body was taken to his ancestral home in an ambulance by the district administration.

Meanwhile, the locals from Gurez said that the government should understand the difficulties which people face there in the winter season.

“We have been begging the government for a long time to give us a tunnel but no one has considered our demand yet,” Nazeer Ahmad a local said.

“If there would have been a tunnel, the body of this officer would have reached his ancestral home immediately but unfortunately, his family has been waiting for his body from the last two days,” he added.

Notably, Gurez is located 85 km from the district headquarter. It remains cut-off from the rest of the Valley during winter months due to accumulation on Bandipora-Gurez road.

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The Risks Of Pain In The Neck And How To Manage It

SRINAGAR: A pain in the neck happens to be the fourth leading cause of disability globally, lagging behind ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and lower respiratory infection. Neck pain can interfere with daily life, including the ability to feel productive, sleep, and enjoy time with family. It is a common occurrence among the working population usually engaged in tech jobs or desk jobs.

Srikanth H.S, Sr. Naturopath, Jindal Naturecure Institute, points out that several factors can result in neck pain like stress, poor posture, obesity, muscle inflammation, arthritis, and injuries.

“The best way to deal with neck pain is to minimise it in the first place. Naturopathy offers safe and effective alternatives to deal with neck pain without falling prey to the side-effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Blending in the goodness of natural therapies like yoga, massage, herbs, and acupuncture, along with lifestyle modifications, naturopathy can bring huge relief from neck pain,” he says.

Risks of Neck Pain

The expert says: “The common causes of neck pain are muscle strain and nerve compression. However, the symptoms alone cannot indicate which one of these is occurring. Muscle strain usually results from poor posture, repeated lifting, sleep, stress, or anxiety. Nerve compression can occur when a disc in the spine slips out of its position and pinches or presses the nerves, or when the tissues in the neck get inflamed or swollen causing the nerves in the area to get squeezed. Whatever the cause, ongoing chronic neck pain shouldn’t be neglected as it can lead to a lifetime of disability or even permanent damage.”

He suggests naturopathy ways to treat neck pain:  Yoga

The ancient art of yoga has been demonstrated to help people with chronic pain including neck pain. Studies have shown that yoga asanas help to reduce pain perception, improves mobility, and decrease inflammation. Even 15 to 20 minutes of yoga exercises a day can relax the body, stretch the muscles, increase blood circulation, and minimise the chances of neck pain. Some of the common yoga asanas which can be practised for neck pain are Marjariasana (Cat Pose), Bitilasana (Cow Pose), Balasana (Child’s Pose), Natarajasana (Reclining Twist Pose), Viparita Karani (Legs up the wall pose), and Savasana  (Corpse Pose).

Massage

Several studies have pointed out that massage therapy can offer relief from neck pain and improve range of motion when performed by qualified professionals. Massage therapy usually involves the use of the hands to manipulate soft tissues, like the tendons and muscles, increase blood circulation, and reduce muscle tension. It helps to ease up the sore, numb and stiff muscles in the spinal area and neck region.

Herbs

Herbal treatments have been used for ages to treat pains of different sorts. Herbal remedies can be sipped like tea, infused in the bathwater, used as an oil, or inhaled as aromatherapy. Devil’s Claw is a popular herb that can substantially reduce neck pain and even improve physical functioning in osteoarthritis patients. Other than that, Lavender, Kudzu, and St. John’s Wort are some of the most popular herbs that help relieve neck pain and lower back pain. For maximum effects, these herbs should be taken under the guidance of expert professionals.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a thousand-year-old technique that involves pricks in the skin with needles at specific points on the body. The frequency and duration of acupuncture sessions may depend on how long the neck pain has already lasted, and also the severity of the symptoms. Some studies have revealed that acupuncture can stimulate biochemical changes both locally (where the needles are placed) and in the central nervous system. These biochemical changes may help to bring pain relief and other beneficial effects in some cases.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle modifications play a significant role in the management of neck aches and stiffness. Practising good posture while at work or home should be a key priority for those suffering from neck pain. Getting good sleep and maintaining the spine in a comfortable position throughout the night, regular neck exercises, and taking breaks in between work and stretching are some of the ways to reduce strain on the neck and keep it relaxed. IANS

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India Reports 16,752 New Covid-19 Cases, Tally Reaches 1,10,96,731

SRINAGAR: Fresh Covid-19 cases are showing a worrying upward trend over the past one week, with the country reporting a single-day rise of 16,752 cases in the last 24 hours taking the overall tally to 1,10,96,731 on Sunday, Union Health Ministry said.

The rise is the highest in this month.

The positivity rate has been rising gradually, which is now at 1.48 per cent. As per the Ministry’s data, there are 1,64,511 active cases at present after 11,718 patients were discharged in a day.

Meanwhile, 113 more deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the overall toll to 1,57,051, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The experts have expressed a number of possibilities which could be owed to the stride ranging from lax attitude of people towards following Covid protocols to likeability of “mutations and new strains” causing the surge, as has been studied by the laboratories involved in Covid detection across the country.

Last week, officials said that the average daily new infections for the last 15 days were oscillating between 9,000 to 12,000 while the deaths were between 78 to 120.

On February 9, India had reported 9,110 new cases, the lowest this year so far. Last year, the lowest 9,633 cases were recorded on June 3.

Till now, 1,07,75,169 persons have been discharged so far. The recovery rate has reduced to 97.10 per cent, a change of 0.4 per cent in the last two days. Meanwhile, the fatality rate remains 1.42 per cent.

On Friday, around 90 per cent of the new cases came from six states — Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Karnataka and Gujarat, while six states accounted for 84.62 per cent of the new deaths included Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Karnataka.

The Ministry also informed that 7,95,723 samples were tested on Saturday. The cumulative tests are done by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) so far stands at 21,62,31,106.

So far, 1,43,01,266 doses of corona vaccine have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for ‘Covishield’ and ‘Covaxin’.

As per the Union Health Ministry, India has become the fastest nation in terms of the vaccine doses administered, even though many countries had launched their vaccination campaigns much earlier.

The third phase of vaccination against the Covid-19 pandemic will begin from March 1 and will cover 27 crore of people above 60 and those above 45 years of age with comorbidities at 10,000 government and over 20,000 private vaccination centres. While people will be vaccinated free of cost at government hospitals, those taking the shots at private hospitals will have to pay.

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Weather To Improve From Today: MeT

SRINAGAR: After fresh snowfall and rain during the last 48 hours, the weather in Jammu and Kashmir is likely to remain dry from Sunday onwards.

Officials of the meteorological (MeT) department said weather in J&K and Ladakh is likely to remain dry from Sunday onwards as the Western Disturbance (WD) which was active over the two union territories has weakened now.

Gulmarg, the famous skiing resort in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the Valley where the minimum temperature was minus 6.0 degrees Celsius.

Srinagar, the summer capital of the state recorded a low of 2.1 degrees Celsius while Kokernag in south Kashmir recorded a low of 0.4 degree Celsius.

The night temperature in Pahalgam – the famous health resort which also serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath Yatra – settled at a low of minus 0.6 degrees.

Kupwara town in north Kashmir registered a low of minus 0.1 degrees Celsius last night while Qazigund in south Kashmir recorded a low of 2.3 degree Celcius.

.Jammu city recorded 12.7 degrees Celsius, Katra 10.2, Batote 5.0, Banihal recorded 5.6 and Bhaderwah recorded 4.2 degrees Celsius as the night’s lowest temperatures.

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Fighting Injuries For Eleven Days, Krishna Dhaba Owner’s Son Succumbs In Srinagar

SRINAGAR: Eleven days after he was shot at by, the son of the owner of popular eatery Krishna Dhaba succumbed to his injuries on Sunday. Akash Mehra was undergoing treatment at SMHS Hospital after being critically wounded in the attack in which three men have been arrested.

An official said that Akash Mehra (25) , a resident of Janipur Jammu, at present Dalgate Srinagar, succumbed at the SMHS hospital at around 3:20 a.m on Sunday.

He said that Akash had bullet wound in right side of lower armpit and abdomen and was on ventilator.

Earlier on February 19, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar while addressing a press conference in Srinagar said that three bike-borne newly recruited militants were arrested for carrying out the attack.

He said that the bike and pistol used in the attack by the trio have been seized. He said all three arrested were newly recruited militants and “confessed” to have carried out the attack.

The accused have been identified as Suhail Ahmad Mir and Owais Manzoor Sofi of Nowgam in Anantnag and Vilayat Aziz Mir of Pulwama, said Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Kashmir zone Vijay Kumar.

On the day of the attack, the trio came to Krishna Dhaba on Suhail Ahmad Mir’s motorcycle around 7.15 pm and fired indiscriminately at the staff members, critically injuring Aakash Mehra, said IGP.

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Steep Hike In LPG, Petrol Prices Hurting People: Sagar

SRINAGAR: National Conference on Saturday stated that spiralling food and fuel prices are hurting people across Jammu and Kashmir saying the ruling BJP was robbing the poor of their hard-earned money to plug in surmounting fiscal deficit.

While expressing concern over the skyrocketing prices of petrol and LPG Party General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar said that the people are baffled by the soaring prices of essential commodities including petrol, LPG and other food items. He said the hike in the prices of petrol, and LPG has anguished the people across the board. It is highly distressing how the incumbent ruling BJP has chosen to profit from people’s miseries and problems, particularly at a time when the country is slowly coming out of the rampage induced by COVID-19, he said.

At a time when the country in general and J&K, in particular, is witnessing pervasive unemployment, systematic erosion of wages and household income, we have a government that has blindfolded itself to the runaway inflation and an unprecedented rise in the price of almost all household items, and essential commodities.

“The surge in the prices of basic essentials has not affected the poor alone; it has panicked daily wagers, salaried and business classes as well.  The single motive of this government has only been to do away with the pro-poor measures.  Unfortunately, the salaried classes and the middle-income groups are finding it difficult to run their kitchens due to the racing prices. The successive clampdowns and lockdown has already squeezed the lower and middle-income groups in J&K; the drastic rise in the cost of living has further compounded their miseries on different accounts,” he said adding that the ruling BJP’s tenure would be remembered for their tragedy of errors in every sphere of governance ranging from administration, development, and Job creation. “J&K it goes without saying has been the biggest ever causality of BJP’s reckless policies,” he added.

Remarking on the unaccountability in J&K, Sagar said the union government was focusing on securing political hold over the region, neglecting the actual issues concerning the people in the form of governance deficit, administrative inertia and high rate of unemployment. “Lack of a popular government and falling of reigns of administration into the hands of unrelated bureaucracy; unaware of people’s grievances has further compounded the woes of people. Long term political void has been a major detrimental factor in the failure of the administration to rise up to its obligations, the delayed response to snow aftermath and widespread unaccountability in hospitals and other vital establishments of the government in Jammu and Kashmir is a point in case,” he added.

While ruing the abject failure of the administration to rise up to the expectations of the people of J&K, Sagar said, “Those who need not to be elected by people, by nature need not to be accountable to people. The absence of a popular government has impaired the capacity of local administration to take bold steps to help people recover from the impact of two successive lockdowns and clampdowns since 2019, and the subsequent weather vagaries. The public trust in the coterie of unrelated officials running the government is low on account of having no stake in the decision-making process.  Besides that the long-term representation gap has broken the effective two ways mechanism of the communication system between people and the government,” he said.

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Court Quashes Detention Of Sopore Youth Under Public Safety Act

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir High Court has quashed the detention of a north Kashmir youth under Public Safety Act.

Tawseef Ahmed Najar son of Ghulam Muhammad Najar, a resident of Brat Kalan Sopore had been arrested by police in Sopore a month after the abrogation of Special Status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 on charges of stone-pelting and was lodged at police station Bomai. He was shifted to Bhaderwah Jail after PSA was slapped upon him.

The detenue was doing job in a private firm when he was arrested. He was accused of instigating people for violence.

Sources told news agency KNT that Justice Vinod Chatterji after hearing the arguments of Advocate Bashir Ahmed Tak, who represented the detenue quashed his detention under Public Safety Act and directed authorities to release him from Badharwa Jail.

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Every Person, Political Party In J&K Want Restoration Of Statehood: Ghulam Nabi Azad

SRINAGAR: Stating that the people of erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir State have lost their identity when it was bifurcated into two Union Territories, senior Congress leader and former Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad Saturday the enemies on the border in Jammu and Kashmir are very much and active and there was a need to keep the people united to defeat the enemy in unison.

Addressing a gathering at ‘Shanti Sammelan’ in Jammu, Azad, who is also former chief minister of J&K, said that he has certainly retired from Rajya Sabha, but not from politics, saying that the fight for the rights of the people will continue.

He said that the leaders from across the globe and people there know Kashmir by its name, but unfortunately, it (Kashmir) lost its identity recently when the State was bifurcated. “There is not even a single citizen across Jammu, Kashmir and Kargil, who doesn’t want the restoration of Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. All the political parties also want statehood to be restored. If any leader has the guts to speak contrary to it, let them come up with a statement in this regard,” he said.

He added that the Congress party will continue its struggle for the restoration of Statehood in and outside parliament.

Azad further stated that the fight in politics never stops, adding that the political leaders or parties continue to fight against unemployment, diseases and other things. “But, in J&K, the fight against the enemies is an addition as they are very much active on the borders. The situation along the borders continues to remain the same as it was in 1947. We have a responsibility to remain united and fight against the enemy in unison. We can’t fight the enemy without staying intact,” he said.

“Congress couldn’t have succeeded in getting freedom decades ago if it would not have remained in unison,” he said.

He added that the border dwellers should also be united as they fight the enemy on the forefront. “We appreciate the forces on the borders who fight the enemies and want to tell them that we are with them in the fight,” he said.

Azad further said that the degree holders in Jammu and Kashmir are awaiting jobs while the unemployment rate is swelling with each passing day. “There is nobody who talks about unemployment and I didn’t see anyone getting a job in the recent past,” he said.

He further said until and unless there won’t be elected representatives in J&K, the situation of unemployment, education and other worsening sectors will continue to remain the same.

Besides, he said that two more things need to be done for the people of J&K which include the land rights and jobs, saying that no outsider like other States should be allowed to buy land here while the government jobs should be kept for the people of J&K only.

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Pristine Glory Of Gillsar, Khuhahsar Will Be Restored: Div Com Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Pandurang K. Pole, accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Saturday, visited Gilkadal Nowshehra and took stock of restoration works of Gillsar, a lake connected to Khushalsar at Gil-Kadal.

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Pandurang K. Pole, accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, on Saturday, visited Gilkadal Nowshehra and took stock of restoration works of Gillsar, a lake connected to Khushalsar at Gil-Kadal.

On the occasion, the locals met the Divisional Commissioner and apprised him about the dilapidated condition of the lake, turned by releasing of untreated sewage into the water body, throwing of polythene and garbage. They said that illegal constructions on encroached land of the lake and landfilling has also deteriorated the glory of the Lake.

The locals demanded that the lake needs immediate dredging to restore it to its original position, besides connecting it with Nigeen Lake via Bota Kadal so that its waters remain flowing through the year imperative for saving it from further deterioration and turning into a cesspool.

They requested the Div Com to take cognizance of their long-pending demand of restoration of Khushalsar a big water body in centre of the city, connected with Gillsar.

The Div Com assured the locals that the Government shall take all the steps to restore the pristine glory of this lake within the shortest possible time. He directed the concerned officers to take immediate steps required for removing of illegal encroachment and landfilling besides stopping people from throwing garbage into this historical water body.

The Divisional Commissioner said the lake is having its own history and appealed to locals to play their role in its restoration process started by the Government. He asked them to act as responsible citizens and desist from throwing garbage and polythene into the lake and also sensitize others to stop it for their own interests.

Later, the Div Com visited 90 ft road, Soura and Alamgari Bazar areas of Srinagar city to assess hurdles that come in the way for laying of water pipes by PHE dept to ensure drinking water supply to various areas.

The concerned officer informed the Div Com that several shops need to be demolished at 90 ft road Soura and at Alamgari Bazar to ensure laying of pipes for providing drinking water supply to various areas of Srinagar city.

Among others, Chief Engineers of R&B and UEED,  and Joint Commissioner, SMC has also accompanied the Div Com during the visit.

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DPS Srinagar Offers Reward, Scholarship To Meritorious Ganderbal Girl

SRINAGAR: Delhi Pubilc School Srinagar has awarded the Satya Devi Amla Prize and a two year fully funded scholarship to Parveena Ayoub of Ganderbal who scored 490 out of 500 in her class X examination despite of all hardships and struggles. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 50000.

Parveena Ayoub a resident of Ganderbal district, who scored 490 out of 500 marks in class 10th examination

Parveena’s father, Ayoub, has to support a family of six including his four daughters and wife and the family lives in a single – room tin shed with the minimum source of income. Coming from a financially weak background, Parveena soared through all the hardships and with perseverance and efforts, she managed to secure good grades by living in a single tin room with her siblings & parents.

Every year the school offers a cash prize of Rs 50,000 to a meritorious girl student, in keeping with its tradition of encouraging gender equality and promoting women empowerment. Delhi Public School Srinagar also runs a vocational centre for visually impaired named after Satya Devi.

Announcing the reward and scholarship, Vijay Dhar Chairman DPS Srinagar said, “We feel responsible for nurturing the dreams of achievers and dreamers, and under no condition can we let their dreams go waste for lack of resources. Parveena’s success deserves to be encouraged further, and provided the best platform to nurture it further.” He also reiterated that Delhi Public School Srinagar will provide her the best platform to excel in academics & other co-curricular and extra-curricular fields.

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Man Killed, 3 Others Injured In Accident

SRINAGAR: A 45-year-old man was killed and three other persons were injured when a Sumo vehicle they were travelling in rolled down into a gorge near Near Challie Rajgrah in Doda district of Jammu.

Official sources told news agency GNS that the driver of the Sumo (JK19-2414) lost control over the vehicle and it rolled down into the deep gorge.  Chain Singh (45) died on the spot while three others, Gambir Singh, Swarn Singh and Bal Krishan (driver) were injured and hospitalized after they were rescued by locals volunteers and police despite tough terrain.

SHO Doda. Auran Sharma confirmed the death of one person and injuries to three persons in the accident.

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Search Operation Launched In Bemina

SRINAGAR: Government forces on Saturday launched a cordon and search operation in Hamdania colony of central Kashmir’s Srinagar district.

Reports said that a joint team of the army’s 22 RR, SOG of Jammu Kashmir Police cordoned off the Hamdania colony.

Sources said that large numbers of forces have been deployed in the area and search operation is going on.

More details are awaited.

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MBBS Seats Have Been Increased To Address Shortage Of Doctors In J&K: LG

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, and Union MoS, PMO, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh on Saturday inaugurated the 1st Academic batch of 100 MBBS students of Government Medical College, Doda.

Lt Governor addressing first batch of MBBS students of GMC Doda

Addressing the gathering through virtual mode, the Lt Governor congratulated the aspiring doctors and advised them to serve humanity and imbibe the spirit of selflessness.

Speaking on the efforts being made by the UT Government for the development of the health sector, the Lt Governor observed that J&K Government is taking several reformative measures for the advancement and upgradation of health infrastructure, besides providing affordable healthcare services to all.

We are determined to fulfill the vision of a new & healthy J&K, said the Lt Governor.

Terming the healthcare sector as imperative for the development of J&K, the Lt Governor observed that J&K is spending 2.86% of its GSDP on public health, which is the best in the country. Special attention is being paid to three areas – Prevention, Better Treatment, and Care, he added.

The Lt Governor also termed the role of medicine students important in strengthening the healthcare system of J&K.

The Lt Governor further underscored the significant measures taken by the Government of India under the leadership of  Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing reforms in the health sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

Five new medical colleges, two AIIMS, nearly 1000 healthcare and wellness centers, five new nursing colleges, BSc paramedical course as well as more than 100% increase in medical seats are contributing towards the development and advancement of the healthcare sector in the UT, he added.

Tendering process for establishing two new medical colleges in Udhampur and Handwara, at an estimated cost of Rs 325 crores each, has been started which will lead to tremendous health security improvement in remote areas, maintained the Lt Governor.

The Lt Governor also appreciated the Health department and the team for making dedicated and committed efforts in bringing J&K among the States / UTs with the best health indicators and health index across the country.

Underlining the improvements recorded by J&K in different health indicators, the Lt Governor observed that the Health Index of J&K shows incremental improvements and positive changes, said the Lt Governor.

In the last three years, the neonatal mortality rate in Jammu and Kashmir has come down from 23.1 to 13.3 per 1000. The infant mortality rate has come down from 32.4 to 16.3 per 1000. Sex Ratio at birth has increased from 923 to 976 per 1000. Institutional deliveries have increased from 7% to 92.4%, the Lt Governor maintained.

The Lt Governor also mentioned the PMJAY-SEHAT which was launched by the Prime Minister recently and is covering 100% of the population without discrimination.

In a major step towards addressing the issue of shortage of doctors in Jammu and Kashmir, the Lt Governor maintained that with the formation of five new medical colleges, 500 additional MBBS seats have been added this year, and their number has now doubled in Government Medical College, out of which 85 seats are reserved for financially weaker sections.

To overcome the shortage of post-graduate doctors and to prepare specialists at that level, our Health Department has also started Diploma of National Board Courses in the new and old medical colleges of the districts, which will increase at least 250 seats, added the Lt Governor.

Speaking on upgradation of health infrastructure, the Lt Governor observed that the new medical colleges have been upgraded by attaching them to the District Hospitals, which will be equipped with all facilities, and soon the existing 300 bedded hospitals will be developed into 500 bedded hospitals.

To promote AYUSH care services, two AYUSH colleges – Unani and an Ayurvedic college have been started. Facilities of AYUSH are also being provided to 571 Stand Alone Dispensaries, he added.

Jammu and Kashmir has received Rs 881 crore for 140 health projects under PMDP out of which 75 projects have been completed and 26 projects will be completed by March this year, said the Lt Governor.

World Bank is providing financial assistance of Rs 367 crore to Jammu and Kashmir, which will further strengthen the health care institutions here, he added.

While speaking on attracting investors in the healthcare sector, the Lt Governor observed that the new Health Care Investment Policy-2019 has been approved and the operational guidelines of this policy, besides proposal of two medi-cities in the UT are being considered which will prove to be milestones in this area.

The Lt Governor expressed his satisfaction on being informed that the Doda Government College has gathered adequate facilities for the education, training of all the students and will be able to serve around 12 lakh people in the coming days, including the surrounding districts. A total of 56 faculty have joined this medical college and by June 2021 its main complex will also be ready, it was informed.

The Lt Governor assured that the issue of availability of senior faculty in Anatomy and Radiology, will be resolved soon.

The Lt Governor congratulated the Principal and faculty members of GMC Doda for commencement of the first batch of the college. It’s a matter of great satisfaction that out of 100 students in the first batch, 50 are girls, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Union MoS PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh termed the occasion as a historic moment. He said that the dream of establishing Government Medical College in the district and beginning of the maiden academic batch of the college has turned into reality due to the efforts of the central government under the able leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister and assured all possible help in providing quality education to the students.

He said that promises made by the Prime Minister with the people of J&K are being fulfilled for the holistic and equitable development of the UT.

Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lt Governor, also spoke on the occasion and extended his heartiest congratulations to the newly enrolled MBBS students and faculty members of the College.

On the occasion, Atal Dulloo, Financial Commissioner, Health and Medical Education Department highlighted the achievements made by the Health Department in the recent past.

In his welcome lecture, Dr Dinesh Kumar, Principal GMC gave a detailed overview about GMC Doda. College Magazine titled ‘Chenab’ was also released on the occasion.

DDC Chairperson Doda, Dhananter Singh Kotwal; Deputy Commissioner Doda, Dr Sagar D Doifode; Director Coordination New Medical Colleges, Dr Yashpal Sharma, Founder Principal GMC Doda, Dr Tariq Parvez Azad, DDC members, BDC Chairpersons, besides various senior officers, teaching fraternity of GMC Doda and students attended the program.

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JK Reports 97 New COVID-19 Cases, One Death

SRINAGAR: The Government on Saturday informed that 97 new positive cases of novel Corona virus (COVID-19), 24 from Jammu division and 73 from Kashmir division, have been reported today, thus taking the total number of positive cases in Jammu and Kashmir to 126383. Also 01 COVID-19 death has been reported from Kashmir Division.

Moreover, 72 more COVID-19 patients have recovered and discharged from various hospitals including 03 from Jammu Division and 69 from Kashmir Division.

According to the daily Media Bulletin on novel Corona virus (Covid-19), out of 126383 positive cases, 828 are Active Positive, 123599 have recovered and 1956 have died; 725 in Jammu division and 1231 in Kashmir division.

The Bulletin further said that out of 5174945 test results available, 5048562 samples have been tested as negative till February 27, 2021.

Till date 1305981 persons have been enlisted for observation which included 33747 persons in home quarantine including facilities operated by government, 828 in isolation and 108673 in home surveillance. Besides, 1160777 persons have completed their surveillance period.

Providing district-wise breakup, the Bulletin said that Srinagar has 26991 positive cases (including 44 cases reported today) with 343 Active Positive, 26187 recovered (including 45 cases recovered today), 461 deaths; Baramulla has 8255 positive cases (including 10 cases reported today)with 87Active Positive, 7993 recovered (including 02 cases recovered today), 175 deaths; Budgam reported 7880 positive cases (including 03 cases reported today)with 34 active positive cases, 7726 recovered (including 06cases recovered today), 120 deaths; Pulwama has 5855 positive cases (including 03 cases reported today)with 40 Active Positive, 5725 recovered (including 07 cases recovered today) and 90 deaths; Kupwara has 5683 positive cases, 12 Active Positive, 5575 recoveries, 96 deaths; Anantnag district has 5016 positive cases (including 08 cases reported today)with 39 Active Positive, 4891 recovered (including 06 cases recovered today), 86 deaths; Bandipora has 4716 positive cases with 18 Active Positive and 4636 recoveries, 62 deaths; Ganderbal has 4668 positive cases with 12 Active Positive, 4609 recoveries (including 03 cases recovered today) and 47deaths; Kulgam has 2731 positive cases (including 04 cases reports today) with 19 Active Positive, 2658 recoveries and 54 deaths while as Shopian has 2606 positive cases (including 01 cases reported today)19 active positive cases, 2547 recoveries and 40 deaths.

Similarly, Jammu has 25217 positive cases (including 11 cases reported today) with 110 active positive cases, 24734 recoveries, 373 deaths; Udhampur has 4313 positive cases (including 11 cases reported today) 70active positive cases, 4186 recoveries and 57 deaths; Rajouri has 3876 positive caseswith 02 active positive, 3819 recoveries (including 01 cases recovered today) and 55 deaths; Doda has 3438 positive cases ( including 01 cases reported today) with 02 Active positive, 3372 recovered and 64 deaths; Kathua has 3260 positive cases (including 01 cases reported today)with 04 active positive cases, 3203 recovered and 53 deaths; Kishtwar has 2738 positive cases with 05 Active Positive, 2711 recoveries and 22 deaths; Samba has 2839 positive cases with 07 active positive cases, 2792 recoveries and 40 deaths; Poonch has 2520 positive cases with 05active positive, 2491 recoveries (including 02cases recovered today) and 24 deaths; Ramban has 2135 positive cases with 00 active positive cases, 2114 recoveries and 21 deaths while Reasi has 1646 positivewith 00 active positive cases, 1630 recoveriesand 16 deaths.

According to the bulletin, among the total 126383 positive cases in J&K, 12313 have been reported as travelers while 114070 as others.

The Bulletin said that the breakup represents districts from which the patients have been traced or are ordinarily residing.

The bulletin added that there are 1091 COVID dedicated beds, 962 Isolation beds with 958 vacant beds and 129 ICU beds where 123 beds are vacant in Jammu division while there are 1570 COVID dedicated beds, 1484 Isolation beds where 1418 beds are vacant and 86 ICU beds where 76are vacant beds in Kashmir division. There are a total of 2661 COVID dedicated beds, 2446 Isolation beds with 2376 beds vacant and 215 ICU beds with 199 vacant beds in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Central Government is continuously monitoring the evolving situation of Covid-19 in the Union Territory and is providing all necessary support towards effective containment of the spread of Covid-19 and better clinical management of positive cases.

The government has also started free tele-consultation general OPD services by Specialists/MBBS Doctors for the residents of J&K under National Tele-consultation Service. People can avail these services from Home by registering online on web portal https://ift.tt/2YXoEWE. The services are available on Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. People can also download and install esanjeevani OPD app from google play store.

Besides, 24×7 Rapid Antigen Testing facility for COVID-19 has been started outside the emergency of GMC Hospital Jammu. The facility will be very useful for segregation of patients in emergency wing of GMC Jammu.

Meanwhile, a 24×7 COVID Control Room has been set up for redressal of the grievances related to COVID-19 positive patients admitted in the Associated Hospitals of Government Medical College, Jammu and Government Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. Patients or attendants can call at 0191– 258 5444 (Control Room), Exchange: 0191-258 2626 / 258 5542 / 258 4290 /258 4291 / 258 4292 / 258 4293/ 258 4294 for assistance.

The bulletin has informed the people that, the best way to protect themselves from COVID-19 is by maintaining physical distance of at least 2 meter from others, frequently cleaning hands with an alcohol based hand sanitizer or washing them with soap and water and following good respiratory etiquette and hygiene.

As a measure for social distancing in public places and workplaces wearing a face cover is compulsory.

The bulletin again explained that early detection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of disease so we need to be responsible for the well-being of ourselves and everyone around us. “Not disclosing symptoms could put life of individuals and their families at risk. In case of symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call COVID-19 helpline numbers and seek medical advice”.

Advisory has further exhorted upon the people not to step out of home, unless absolutely necessary. “If you have to move out for unavoidable reasons, ensure that you wear a mask and practice social distancing, personal hygiene and frequent hand washing with soap and water.”

In case of any emergency people can avail free ambulance services 24×7 at their doorsteps by calling on toll-free number 108 while as pregnant women and sick infants can avail free ambulance services by dialing toll-free number 102.

People can also call on toll-free national helpline number 1075; J&K COVID-19 Helpline Numbers 0191- 2549676 (UT level Cell), 0191-2520982, 0191-2674444, 0191-2674115 (For Jammu Division), 0194-2440283 & 0194-2430581 (For Kashmir Division) for support, guidance, and response to health-related queries on Novel Corona virus Disease (COVID-19).

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Power Shutdown In Kashmir Parts

SRINAGAR: According to the Power Controller, Kashmir province, the power supply to the areas fed from the Receiving Stations of Rangreth, Rasoo, Doodganga, JKLI, Peerbaggh and Airforce shall remain affected on March 1, from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm in order to execute the works related to installation of street lights.

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Srinagar-Jammu Highway: Traffic Advisory For Tomorrow

SRINAGAR: Traffic department authorities on Saturday said that on Sunday subject to fair weather and better road condition only light motor vehicles shall be allowed from both sides on Jammu-Srinagar highway viz Jammu towards Srinagar and vice-versa.

The traffic department in an advisory said TCU Jammu, Srinagar shall liaise with TCU Ramban before releasing the traffic.

According to advisory LMVs will have to cross Nagrota (Jammu) from 05: 00 hrs to 12:00 hrs and Jakheni (Udhampur) from 0600 hrs to 1300 hrs and from Zig Qazigund 1000 hrs to 1300 hrs.

“No Vehicle shall be allowed after cut off timing,” it said.

“Only stranded heavy motor vehicles between Nashree and Ramban shall be allowed towards Srinagar,” it added.

“Government Forces are advised/requested not to ply against advisory/traffic plan in view of traffic congestion on Jammu-Srinagar highway. They may ply from Jammu towards Srinagar after confirming the status of highway,” it reads.

The historic Mughal Road and SSG Road is closed due to snow accumulation, reads the advisory.

It said that the Srinagar-Leh highway is closed by the J&K Government vide  Divisional Commissioner Kashmir’s order No. 400/2020 dated 30-12-2020 till further orders.

People have been advised not to travel on the highway without confirming the status of the road from phone numbers Jammu (0191-2459048, 9419147732), Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396,18001807091), Ramban (9419993745) and Udhampur (8491928625).

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Avian Influenza: First Case Confirmed Among Poultry In Baramulla

SRINAGAR: After crows, the first case of Avian Influenza, commonly known as Bird Flu has been confirmed among poultry in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Saturday.

An official told the news agency KNO that a sample of poultry from Iqbal market Baramulla was taken, which was declared positive following which ten kilometres from the epicenter has been declared as ‘Alert Zone’.

“Director Animal Husbandry Department Kashmir vide letter number DAIIK/Tech/A-59/18534-40 Dated: 24.02 2021 has intimated that a sample of poultry from lqbal Market, Old Town Baramula has been declared positive for Avian Influenza virus (HSN8) by the ICAR NISHAD and it has been recommended that surveillance of the affected areas be intensified besides declaring the epicenters as Alert Zones to check the spread of the Influenza, reads the order issued by district magistrate Baramulla.

“Now, therefore, in view of above, a radius of 10 KM from the Khan Chicken point Iqbal Market, Old Town Baramulla is hereby declared as ‘Alert Zones’. Accordingly, Animal Husbandry Department shall keep the aforementioned area/Market under surveillance and conduct random sampling within 10 KM of the said shop,” it further added.

“Further, the following measures are to be strictly adhered to, to avoid further spread of the disease, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer Baramulla, Wild Life Warden North and Divisional Forest Officer, Kamraj shall intensify surveillance within the Notified Zones and shall also conduct random sampling of organized Poultry Farms and backyard poultry units within Alert Zone, besides keeping a vigil on other birds, Bio-security has to be strengthened & disinfection in the entire area where the mortality in birds has been reported, to be carried out in collaboration with Forest Department, the dead birds (if any) should be disposed off by deep burial, For sample collection and testing, the whole birds may be sent to lab, dead bird(s) should not be kept in open without ensuring bio-safety and zoo-sanitary measures, surveillance of poultry may be also intensified in the area, to and fro movement of poultry/ poultry products and vehicles carrying the same to be stopped, No movement of poultry, eggs, dead carcasses, manure, used Litter, arm machinery, equipment of any such material should be allowed to and from the alert zone, to prevent spread of disease to other Poultry birds & human beings, the guidelines already circulated by Animal Husbandry Department may be adhered to in letter and spirit, Forest & Wildlife Department shall make all necessary measures to prevent the spread of disease, An updated report in respect of the aforesaid area epicenter shall be sent immediately to the Animal Husbandry Department as well as this office and Tehsildar/ SHO concerned shall keep a strict vigil in the said area and shall ensure that advisory is adhered to in letter and spirit and they shall remain in contact with Nodal Officer Bind Flue (Poultry Development Officer, Baramulla) contact No. 7780958162,” it further added.

Pertinently, so far cases of Avian Influenza have been reported among crows in eight districts of J&K and among domestic birds in two districts of J&K.

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Cabinet Secretary Reviews Public Health Response To COVID-19, J&K Sees 40% Increase In Weekly Cases

SRINAGAR: The Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba, while chairing a high-level meeting to review the public health response to COVID-19 asked all the States and Union Territories to closely monitor the trajectory of COVID infections to prevent a surge in cases and assiduously expedite vaccination of priority groups in accordance to the guidelines in this regard.

Cabinet Secretary reviews public health response to COVID-19

Chief Secretary, B V R Subrahmanyam along with Chief Secretaries of Chattishgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana, and West Bengal participated in the meeting.

While reviewing the situation, the Cabinet Secretary informed that India is witnessing a resurgence of COVID cases with an average of 14,300 daily cases, marking an approximate 21% week-on-week increase in the new cases.

The Cabinet Secretary urged the States/UTs to ensure a multi-sectoral response in addition to swift vaccination drives to prevent subsequent waves of infection especially in the wake of the emergence of mutant strains of the virus. The next phase of the vaccination will start from March 1, 2021 to cover the third prioritized age group of persons above the age of 60 years and persons with co-morbidities in the age group of 45-59 years.

He advised the States/UTs to ardently promote COVID appropriate behaviour, improve the rate of testing especially in districts that are falling short of target quotas, increase the share of RTPCR tests viz-a-viz RATs, monitor mutant strain for early hotspot identification, adopt refocused & stringent containment strategies and undertake priority vaccination with provisions of geographically targeted vaccination in clusters witnessing a surge in COVID cases.

The Chief Secretary, J&K, informed that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir is conducting mandatory universal tests on all incoming travellers coming via roadways, railways, and airways. He informed that J&K saw a 40% surge in weekly cases with travellers contributing to 2/3rd of all the positive cases, adding that in Srinagar district alone 50% of recorded positive cases were travellers.

He said that through concerted efforts the Government is consistently monitoring the COVID trajectory among its local population with a special focus on districts with an increased tourist footfall.

Regarding vaccination drives, it was informed that in J&K, 67% of healthcare workers and 59% of frontline workers have been vaccinated during the initial stages of the vaccine roll-out and arrangements are in place to incorporate the third prioritized group in the upcoming days.

Currently, the bed occupancy in the designated COVID hospitals is less than 4% with approximately 100 patients admitted to health care institutes that have been prepped to accommodate 3000 patients. “In the given scenario, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is by and large comfortable and under control”, the Chief Secretary maintained.

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Army Orders Probe In Alleged Data Breach In Northern Command

SRINAGAR: The Indian Army has ordered a court of inquiry into an alleged case of data breach at the Udhampur-based Northern Command in Jammu and Kashmir after a soldier was found to have passed on tactical and operational military data to Pakistan’s ISI, The Telegraph quoted sources in the army headquarters as having said.

The breach, The Telegraph quoted a senior army official as having said, came to light early this month amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control with Pakistan and the ongoing border standoff with China on the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh since May last year.

“It’s an extremely serious issue as the alleged data breach involves top military secrets including specifics of vital installation, army deployment, patrolling routes and military maps along the LoC and the LAC in the Ladakh sector,” The Telegraph quoted the official as saying.

Considering the sensitivity of the matter, he said, the top army brass had immediately ordered a court of inquiry to ascertain the extent of the breach. The army spokesperson in Delhi declined to comment.

The Udhampur-based Northern Command is in charge of security on both the China and Pakistan borders in the Ladakh sector.

The breach came to light following a tip-off from India’s external spy agency Research & Analysis Wing (RAW). The sources said several officers were under the scanner for the failure to detect the breach.

As per records available with the Union home ministry, 13 serving and retired defence personnel had been arrested for allegedly spying for the ISI or being part of its espionage racket over the past six years, reported The Telegraph.

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Ceasefire Agreement Positive Move: GOC Kilo Force

SRINAGAR: The Army on Friday said the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) and other sectors was a positive move and a step in the right direction, but security forces will approach the situation with cautious optimism.

Interacting with a selected group of journalists at the Army’s Sharifabad headquarters in Budgam district, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Kilo Force, Major General H S Sahi said, “It (ceasefire agreement) is indeed a very positive step, a step in the right direction but we have to approach it with very cautious optimism.”

“It is indeed a very positive step, a step in the right direction, but as security forces personnel, we have to approach with very, very cautious optimism,” Sahi said.

He said such agreements were reached in the past as well, but certain elements derailed them.

“We would like it to happen the way the understanding has been reached. These things were worked in the past also, but because of certain elements and powers at play, they could not be taken to a logical conclusion. If implemented by both the sides, this will be a way forward. So, it is a very proactive step,” he said.

The GoC expressed hope that the agreement would lead to “further steps”.

“We hope that whatever will happen will further lead to some negotiations at various levels so that we take it forward and not do a repeat of what they (Pakistan) are doing all along,” said Sahi while addressing a press conference in Srinagar.

He said the other steps will follow only when there is a semblance of peace on the LoC.

“All activities like infiltration or arms being sent across the border must stop in case the understanding has to be earnestly implemented,” he added.

“Our establishment of the security grid, the infiltration grid on the LoC and the grid thereafter in the immediate hinterland, has been calibrated and we are prepared. We have also started moving up to forward areas to carry out reconnaissance and also to see for ourselves which are the areas which we can move to immediately,” said Sahi.

Asked about the impact of the ceasefire agreement on the infiltration, Major General Sahi expressed hope that the agreement would manifest on the ground.

“The counter-infiltration grid is absolutely intact. The ceasefire violations are basically meant to assist the militants to sneak across. We hope that in the spirit of the understanding of the agreement, it manifests on the ground in the coming days,” he said.

On a question about the activities on the launchpads across the LoC, the GoC said there are reports of some “low-scale” activities taking place.

“On our side, the movement has started towards the reception areas. So far, there are no credible, confirmed inputs (about the movement of militants across the LoC) but we are continuously monitoring the situation,” he said.

The number of militants in the Kashmir valley was about 210-215, out of which about 140 are in south Kashmir and 60-65 are in north Kashmir, said Sahi.

“Out of these, 18-20 are locals. These are rough estimates. It is a matter of concern, but it does not bother us too much as we have the capability to address all their activities,” he said.

However, he added that there was no militant active in north Kashmir from Hizbul Mujahideen and that most of the militants belonged to Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT).

He said the security forces were geared up for the summer months to face the challenges at both the LoC and the hinterland.

“There are multiple challenges, but we are capable enough to deal with those. Lots of people are expected to visit Kashmir in the summer months. The peaceful environment in the valley will act as a catalyst to attract more tourists,” said Sahi while addressing in a press conference.

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