SRINAGAR: In a gripping twist of events, the highly debated revocation of Article 370 in 2019 has once again ignited a storm in Srinagar. Chief Justice of India (CJI), DY Chandrachud, found himself at the center of this maelstrom as he presided over the 19th All India Meet of the Legal Services Authorities. A multitude of pleas contesting the abrogation currently await a verdict from the Supreme Court.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who addressed the legal gathering, lauded the Centre’s decision to discard the special constitutional position of J&K since 1947. He hailed the abolition of Articles 370 and 35A as a transformative step that ushered in an era of historic reforms and boundless opportunities for the people of J&K. Sinha particularly emphasized the positive impact on individuals from marginalized backgrounds who had long been deprived of the benefits provided by laws enacted by the Parliament. Reflecting on the past four years, he proudly described them as a period synonymous with peace, progress, and prosperity, highlighting the international recognition of J&K’s capabilities and socio-economic growth at the recent G20 meeting.
“Laudable measures have been taken to empower farmers and landowners by issuing land passbooks in three languages. Transparent and accountable governance has ensured that development benefits reach all sections and areas, bringing victims of unbalanced progress into the mainstream of development,” he added.
In stark contrast to Sinha’s viewpoint, former J&K chief minister and People’s Democratic Party president, Mehbooba Mufti, took to Twitter to vehemently express her dissent. She drew the attention of the CJI, highlighting what she perceived as the “illegal revocation” of Article 370.
“Welcome CJI to Kashmir. Article 370, a constitutional commitment of this nation to the people of J&K, was illegally revoked. This is despite earlier Supreme Court rulings against its abrogation. It has been four years, and yet the matter is still pending before the honorable court,” Ms Mufti said.
She pointed out that thousands of young individuals were languishing behind bars without the opportunity for a fair trial. “The process itself has become the punishment. J&K acceded to India out of choice, not compulsion. So why is it being deprived of the basic fundamental rights and guarantees provided by the constitution itself? I earnestly hope that your presence sheds light on these pressing issues,” added Mufti.
In his speech, the Chief Justice refrained from addressing the issue pending in his court. Instead, he underscored the importance of reaching out to marginalised individuals. “Many prisoners belong to underprivileged and marginalized sections. We must ensure that they receive the necessary legal aid and services during their trials,” he stressed.
According to CJI Chandrachud, for people to trust legal aid, it must demonstrate competence and the desired quality. “We need to enhance the capabilities of lawyers and para-legal volunteers and encourage them to unlearn their social biases,” he added. He also urged legal services institutions to promote the participation of more women and transgender individuals as lawyers and para-legal volunteers.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal commended the Indian Legal Services Authorities, stating, “The services provided by the Indian Legal Services Authorities are commendable. The upcoming government’s goal should be to ensure economic and social equality for every citizen. Delivering justice to everyone will automatically lead to social and economic equality,” Mr. Meghwal expressed during the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) meeting.
The two-day event is being hosted by the government of J&K and the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority. It has attracted the presence of Chief Justices of High Courts, executive chairpersons of State Legal Services Authorities, and chairpersons of High Court Legal Services Committees, among other notable attendees.
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Markets across Kashmir used to be teeming with activity in the days ahead of Eid, a situation that is missing yet again.Syed Shadab Ali Gillanimet the traders to report the “unprecedented” slump in Kashmir markets in 2023 and how the emergence of Kashmir as an online market is impacting the traditional business
The hustle and bustle of people, the endless lines of traffic, and the bustling markets that once defined Eid in Kashmir have now become distant dreams for many, particularly the small street vendors.
Not only have prices skyrocketed, but there has also been a noticeable decline in customer footfalls in most of the markets, especially Srinagar.
The desolate markets, the disappointed expressions on people’s faces, and the sparsely populated roads paint a grim picture and only few are venturing out of their homes. This is especially concerning as Eid ul Azha is one of the most significant festivals for Muslims in Kashmir and elsewhere. While some claim that things were relatively normal during Eid ul Fitr, the prevailing sentiment is that everything has changed this Eid.
Lal Chowk, Goni Khan Market, and Maharaji Bazaar, all crowded shopping centres, witnessed scarce crowds. There were no traffic jams in the two days leading up to Eid or on the day of Arafa, a day ahead of Eid.
“On the way to and from Malkhah, to offer Fateha to my grandmother who passed away on this Arafat Day in 1980, I took the old city route. Karan Nagar, Nawab Bazar, Khanyar, Nowhatta,” politician Naeem Akhter wrote on his Facebook wall. “It took me just 20 minutes one way from Airport Humhome after crossing the Hyderpora jam. Reason: hardly any traffic on roads or shoppers jostling for everything from the bakery, meat, vegetables, and costumes as one generally witnessed in the run-up to Eid. Kashmir is truly hit by acute economic depression, lack of vibrancy and urge or capacity to spend. There’s no festival around. Just go out to find. It’s heartbreaking!”
In the past, the mutton shops, bakeries, clothing stores, jewellery shops, and cosmetic boutiques would be teeming with customers, but this time was different. There were no long queues anywhere.
Shallow Wallets
In Kashmir, the banking system remained busy as is the routine during festivals. In the three days ahead of Eid, the Jammu and Kashmir Bank – the main bank serving the erstwhile state, recorded a staggering 71 lakh transactions involving Rs 4170 crore using all the online banking platforms it has.
A load of transactions actually triggered so huge pressure on the system that some of the apps collapsed, at least temporarily. Though the transactions were huge as lot of money changed hands, insiders within the banking sector believe the quantum was still not as huge as it was last year.
Crowds at Eidgah
However, at Eidgah, the largest market for sacrificial animals, the situation was somewhat mixed. While some sellers reported a decline in business, others claimed their sales were going well.
“People lack space at home to keep the animals, so they prefer buying them on the day of Arafa,” a trader whose family has been in the sacrificial animal business for generations, said. “Additionally, parents don’t want their young children to be distracted from their studies by playing with the animals. Otherwise, by the grace of Almighty, our business is doing somehow better.”
“It is too early to say anything about the exact details of the market,” Merajuddin Ganai, who heads the sheep imports group in Srinagar said. “The feedback I am getting is not very encouraging. There is a definite decline. However, the quantum of decline can be better said on the second of Eid not on the eve of it.” He said across Kashmir almost 2000 people sell the animals and, apart from the traditional sellers, there are third parties as well.
Maharaji Bazaar Market
The vibrant market, known for its wholesale shops and bustling atmosphere, is currently experiencing a significant decline in customer footfall. A shopkeeper, specialising in women’s clothing, expressed his concern over the situation. “In the past, our market used to thrive with numerous customers, but now there are hardly any. This loss during Eid is distressing,” the shop-keeper, who wishes to remain anonymous, said.
Khurshid Ahmad Shah, president of the Maharaji Bazaar Shopkeeper’s Association and a shop owner with over fifty years of experience, remarked that this is the first time he has witnessed such a sharp decline in customers. “All the shopkeepers here are sitting idle; there are no customers,” he lamented. “Despite the bustling markets, there are no buyers, no sales whatsoever.” Regarding the reasons behind this decline, he candidly admitted, “To be honest, I can’t comprehend the exact reasons.”
Shah also pointed out that the Smart City Project is among the factors affecting business. “The transport diversion has caused a great deal of chaos,” he asserted. “Eid ul Fitr was far better in terms of sales. We had at least a 50 to 60 per cent increase, but this time, it is nothing.”
He further mentioned that out of the 300 shops in Maharaji Bazaar, only 5-10 per cent of the establishments, mostly selling bakery and food items, are experiencing some customer activity. “The rest of us are idle.”
Another shopkeeper attributed the decline in business to people exhausting their savings over the past four years. “Now they are facing financial constraints,” he explained. “The current sales are dreadful.”
Goni Khan Market
The neighbouring Goni Khan market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of ladies’ and kids’ items, has also fallen victim to the prevailing downturn. From high-end shops to small establishments and street vendors, the market shares a similar tale of decline.
Srinagar markets on the eve of Eid ul Azha 2023. KL Image: Shuaib Wani
Fayaz Ahmed, a street vendor selling crockery items just outside the market, expressed his despair as he recounted his lack of sales this Eid. “I opened my stall at 8 am, and now it’s 11, and I’ve only had one customer,” Fayaz lamented with a voice filled with hopelessness. Despite earning less, he emphasised the responsibility of providing for his family, saying, “Sales or no sales, we have to cater to their needs.”
Having operated his small stall for the past 18 years, Fayaz remarked that this is the first time he has witnessed such a widespread drop in business and sales. “I believe people are facing financial constraints due to the recession and a lack of disposable income,” he speculated.
Fayaz also attributed the decline to the impact of the Smart City project, stating, “It doesn’t feel like Eid right now. Previously, we would have sales amounting to Rs 40,000 to 50,000, but now it has dwindled to just Rs 5000. Our families are suffering greatly.” He further noted that whereas they previously had no time to spare, they now find themselves with no customers to attend to.
Manzoor Ahmed, a shopkeeper with 28 years of experience in the market, expressed deep disappointment with the Eid ul Azha atmosphere in 2023. “We are at a loss for words to express our dismay. The vibrant atmosphere we usually expect in the days leading up to Eid is completely absent,” he said.
“The joy and excitement among people are missing. The deserted state of the market is truly heartbreaking.”
He attributed the low footfall of customers to inflation, remarking, “People no longer have the capacity. Their savings have been exhausted. In fact, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that inflation has placed a heavy burden on Kashmiri households, making occasions like this incredibly stressful, as almost everything is beyond their budget.”
Manzoor also highlighted the impact of road construction related to the Smart City project, stating, “Since the project’s implementation, traffic and customers have been diverted.”
He added, “Online shopping has significantly affected traditional retail. The younger generation, who prefer online shopping, has become distant and disconnected from the traditional shopping experience.” He expressed hope for divine intervention, stating, “We pray that Allah shows mercy because the current situation is truly disheartening.”
Iqraf Ahmed, a shopkeeper who recently opened a garments shop, remarked that the market’s flourishing nature during Eid has diminished. “The customer rush this year is only about 30 per cent compared to previous years,” he observed. “Sales are down, and customer numbers have declined.” He attributed the current state to the economic crisis, stating, “Customers say they can’t afford the prices.” Iqraf also emphasised the negative impact of the Smart City project, not only on Goni Khan market but also on Sunday Market, Batamaloo Market, Lal Chowk, and every other big and small business suffering its consequences.
Drawing from his experience as a salesman since 2008 before opening his own shop in 2021, Iqraf expressed his surprise at witnessing such a lack of hustle and bustle in the Goni Khan market. “It’s one of the largest markets, yet neither the customers nor the shopkeepers are satisfied,” he shared. He also noted that the abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent Covid-19 lockdown had significant repercussions in Kashmir. However, he emphasized that the primary cause for the current business decline is the Smart City project.
Another shopkeeper highlighted the significant threat posed by the shift of businesses to the online realm. “People start shopping online weeks before Eid, so why would they come to us?” he questioned. “They have everything available online, so the younger customers especially no longer bother to visit Goni Khan.”
The Markets in Outskirts
While the bustling market hubs of Kashmir remain eerily silent, the situation is no different in the shops located on the outskirts of the city. In the Bagh e Mehtab area, a shop owner of a readymade garments store eagerly awaits customers from 9 in the morning until 10 at night. However, disappointment fills the air as no customers arrive. “I had a lot of customers during Eid ul Fitr, but right now, as you can see,” the shopkeeper lamented, gesturing toward the empty shop.
A shopkeeper in the Chanapora area, who runs a cosmetics shop, echoed similar sentiments: “I believe people are facing financial constraints and time limitations nowadays.”
However, amidst the prevailing gloom, there are shopkeepers who have optimistic tales to share about their sales. A bakery owner in Chanapora expressed satisfaction, saying, “This Eid, I feel our sales have increased compared to previous years. We are neither experiencing a drop nor suffering. Alhamdulillah, we are doing well.”
Similarly, a chicken seller in the area affirmed, “Our sales are good, all thanks to the Almighty. He has always been kind to us. We are earning a living and making ends meet.”
Outside Srinagar
Reports from all over Kashmir indicate a decline in sales. Nasir, a shop owner in Kulgam’s main market, expressed his observation, stating, “The market lacks hustle and bustle. I believe people are facing financial constraints, leading to reduced buying and selling.” He added, “Although the market is open, customer footfall has significantly decreased. People are now more selective in their spending.”
What were once days of Eid shopping have now become just other ordinary days.
Nasir further explained that people are concerned about the current economic conditions and attribute the decline in sales to inflation and the sad situation of previous years.
Shoppers throng markets for purchases in Srinagar on Monday ahead of Eid-Ul-Azha being celebrated in Kashmir on July 21, 2021.
KL Image: Bilal Bahadur
In Tral, another shopkeeper, remarked on the low market activity, saying, “On the day of Arafa, I arrived to sell my goods at 7 am, yet I haven’t seen any buyers so far, nor do I expect any. I believe people are struggling with an extreme economic crisis.”
Fayaz Ahmed Wani, the district president of Pulwama for the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commented on the overall weak market situation, stating, “The economic condition everywhere is weaker compared to last year. People are facing financial difficulties. The sales and activity in the market are not even 20% of what they used to be.”
He further added that markets are currently deserted, especially in District Pulwama, which relies on horticultural activities. He said, “The decline in rates over the past year may be one of the reasons. We appeal to the youths, especially, to support traditional markets in their area, as the shopkeepers have expectations from their communities.
“Additionally, online shopping is associated with various frauds and scams, so it’s better if they prioritize the shopkeepers in their locality. While we cannot control e-commerce, I often advise people to be mentally prepared for the challenges.”
Business Leader Says
Mohammad Yaseen Khan, President of the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), acknowledged the low business activity, in all of Kashmir. He mentioned that despite the flourishing tourism industry in Kashmir, the markets have not thrived as expected. Khan pointed out the outstanding loans from financial institutions, stating, “From 2019 to 2021, we were unable to pay our EMIs on time. We currently owe around Rs 70,000 crore to these institutions, which is contributing to the market decline, in addition to inflation. The truth is, people lack money, so every sector is suffering.”
A customer from Shopian mentioned that the market is relatively normal but 30 per cent lower compared to the previous year.
This decline is largely attributed to decreased agricultural produce and damages caused by natural calamities, resulting in financial constraints and uncertainty regarding earnings.
Echoing Fayaz’s perspective, Arjumand Ahmed, the owner of a hosiery shop in Pulwama’s main town, reported a 60 per cent decrease in sales compared to last year.
The story of decline remains the same across all districts from North to South and from West to East, including Central Kashmir.
Moin Bakery, located on the outskirts of Sopore Town, also experienced a decline in sales. “It doesn’t feel like Eid. Previously, there used to be a massive rush, and we didn’t even have a moment to sit. But this time, it’s entirely different,” the bakery owner said.
A readymade garments owner from Ganderbal noted a significant 50 per cent decrease in sales compared to previous years.
Smart City Project
The implementation of the Smart City project in Srinagar has inadvertently contributed to the already dwindling market situation. Reports from various markets in Srinagar highlight a significant decline in sales and economic activity. Local shop owners and residents express concerns over the negative impact of the project on the market.
One of the key issues is the lack of proper planning and coordination between the Smart City project and the local business community. The focus on infrastructural development has taken precedence over supporting the existing market ecosystem. As a result, traditional markets are left struggling to compete with the new modernised structures, which has led to a decline in footfall and sales.
Additionally, the Smart City project has brought about changes in transportation patterns and traffic management, which have inadvertently impacted the accessibility of local markets. Alterations in road layouts and traffic restrictions have made it more challenging for customers to reach the traditional market areas easily. This has resulted in a decrease in footfall and a subsequent decline in sales for local businesses.
The lack of adequate support and promotion for the traditional marketplaces within the Smart City project has amplified the negative impact on the local economy.
The On-Line
One of the reasons for the slump is that people now prefer online. “The online market is booming,” Sheikh Samiullah, the co-promoter of FastBeetle said. “To my understanding, the online market in Kashmir is growing by 10 to 12 per cent every month.”
There are almost half a dozen players who manage the cargo of top online retailers. One insider said that the average cargo in Kashmir is more than 40,000 parcels. “On Eid, is it touches 70,000 parcels but almost a week ahead of Eid because the delivery takes three to five days,” the insider said.
Given the emergence of Kashmir as a lucrative market for online, the delivery points are increasing. Earlier, it used to be Srinagar alone. Now most of South Kashmir is included in the delivery addresses. Even FastBeetle is opening a unit in Uri, the most distant location in Kashmir that is literally on the line of control. “There are two things that are key to the shift,” one market expert said. “Online, the costs are much less and there is an exchange possible.”
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SRINAGAR: The second batch of 4,416 pilgrims on Saturday left Bhagwati Nagar based Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu for the Kashmir valley to perform pilgrimage to Amarnath Cave Shrine in South of Himalayas amid tight security arrangements, officials said.
An official told news agency KNO that Chanting ‘Bam Bam Bhole’, the pilgrims left the base camp in a cavalcade of 188 vehicles early morning. “1683 pilgrims proceed towards Baltal and 2733 for Pahalgam”, he said.
With this, the number of pilgrims who left for the Amarnath cave shrine from the Jammu base camp climbs to 7,904, officials said.
Meanwhile, a total 5,600 pilgrims left from twin base camps towards the cave to pay obeisance. “3,600 pilgrims from Baltal and 2,000 from Nunwan Pahalgam”, official added—(KNO)
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SRINAGAR: In a tragic incident, a 23-year-old boy slipped to death in the Shrunz fall in north Kashmir Baramulla district on Friday.
Quoting an official, KS reported that Javid Ahmad Ganie s/o Abdul Majeed Ganie R/o posnage Kreeri slipped into the shranz fall.
He said that the body was retrieved by the locals and immediately taken to a nearby hospital at Tangmarg where Doctors declared him brought dead on arrivaly.
Confirming it, a police official said that they have taken cognisance of the incident. (KS)
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SRINAGAR: As many as 677 new petrol pumps will be set up in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories to cater to the increasing fuel demand, media reports said.
Indian Express reported that India’s BPCL and HPCL, the leading PSU Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), would be setting up 677 new petrol pumps, with 643 new fuel stations in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. Of the 643 new petrol pumps, 342 would be set up in the Jammu region and 301 in Kashmir. In Ladakh, a total of 34 new fuel stations would be set up.
At present, Jammu and Kashmir has 646 fuel stations and Ladakh UT has 32 petrol pumps.
The expansion will cater to the emerging markets such as urban areas, upcoming highways, agricultural pockets, rural, remote, and far-flung area so as to ensure that quality petroleum products are readily available to the people residing in remote regions. The expansion is also aimed to generate employment opportunities, the Indian Express reported.
Meanwhile, the Oil Marketing Companies have issued advertisements inviting applications from candidates intending to set up Petrol pumps via user-friendly online applications.
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SRINAGAR: Amid the forecast for isolated to scattered light rain and thunderstorm in the next 24 hours, the minimum temperature recorded a drop in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, officials said.
Also rains lashed parts of J&K during the last 24 hours till 0830 hours on Friday with Srinagar recording traces, Pahalgam 13.2 mm, Kupwara 0.6 mm, Gulmarg 0.4 mm, Batote 0.9 mm, Bhaderwah 1.4mm and Kathua 3.0 mm.
A meteorological department official said that Srinagar recorded a low of 18.3°C against 20.3°C on the previous night and it was 1.2°C above normal for the summer capital.
Qazigund, he said, recorded a low of 16.6°C against 17.5°C on the previous night and it was 1.1°C above normal for the gateway town of the Kashmir Valley.
Pahalgam, he said, recorded a low of 11.2°C against 13.2°C on the previous night and it was 0.4°C above normal in the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Kupwara town, he said, the mercury settled at 15.7°C against 17.1°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 0.2°C for the north Kashmir area.
Kokernag recorded a low of 16.3°C against 16.7°C on the previous night and it was 1.4°C above normal for the place, the officials said.
Gulmarg recorded a low of 11.0°C against 12.2°C on previous night and it was 0.1°C above normal for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, he said.
Jammu recorded a low of 27.1°C against 26.2°C on the previous night and it was 1.5°C above normal for J&K’s winter capital, he said.
Banihal recorded a low of 17.6°C (1.5°C above normal), Batote 17.7°C (0.2°C above normal), Katra 23.5°C(above normal by 1.5°C) and Bhaderwah 16.8° (0.8°C above normal). Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil recorded a low of 9.8°C and 13.4°C respectively, the official added. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, officially inaugurated the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra in the early hours of Friday. The inaugural ceremony took place at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp, where the first batch of 3,488 pilgrims began their journey towards the revered Shri Amarnath Cave Shrine located in the South Kashmir Himalayas.
Accompanied by high-ranking administrative and police officials, Sinha performed customary prayers before flagging off the pilgrims. Expressing his best wishes, he stated, “Flagged off the first batch of Shri Amarnath Ji pilgrims, as they set off to the Holy Cave. Wishing all the devotees a safe and spiritually-fulfilling journey. Prayed to Baba Amarnath for peace, prosperity, and happiness to all.”
The initial batch of pilgrims embarked on their expedition in a convoy consisting of 164 vehicles. Among them, 1,491 pilgrims in 76 vehicles set off for Baltal, while 1,997 pilgrims in 84 vehicles headed towards Pahalgam. To ensure the safety and security of the devotees, the convoy was closely escorted by diligent security personnel.
This year, the Jammu and Kashmir government has arranged extensive arrangements for the 62-day-long yatra, which will conclude on August 30. With an estimated number of over four lakh pilgrims expected to visit the Amarnath Cave Shrine, the local population in Jammu expressed joy and contentment over the administration’s preparations. They hope that the influx of pilgrims will not only boost the local economy but also convey a message of peace and harmony throughout the region.
The pilgrims will get food and other things while travelling. A total of 22 langars have been established this year at various points of the highway (NHW-44).
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SRINAGAR: In a heart-breaking incident, a 20-year-old boy from Chanpora Methan lost his life after drowning in the well-known water body, Mukhtepukhri, located in Vicharnag, Nowshera, Srinagar.
The unfortunate incident occurred while the boy was engaged in the distribution of Qurbani mutton. As he went to answer nature’s call and subsequently proceeded to wash his hands, he accidentally slipped into the spring.
Tragically, his brother, who was waiting outside, was unable to prevent the unfortunate turn of events. As the news spread, lot o people came out and literally rescued him and drove him to the neighbouring SKIMS hospital. Hospital sources have confirmed the devastating news, declaring the young boy deceased on the spot.
The deceased young man’s identity could not be immediately ascertained.
Confirming the death, the local police said they were two brothers distributing the mutton and both stopped to respond to the call of nature. “One brother went to the urinal of the local masjid and another found an isolated space,” the police officer said. “He went to clean his hands and slipped into the spring.” He said they are ascertaining the details including his name.
The area where the spring is located has no lighting and that was fundamental to the accident.
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SRINAGAR: Indian Border Security Forces and Pakistan Rangers on Thursday exchanged sweets on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha at various BoPs under Jammu frontier.
According to a statement, the exchange of sweets took place along BoPs in Samba, Kathua, RS Pura and Akhnoor sectors.
The statement reads that BSF Jammu offered sweets to Pak Rangers and they also reciprocated the gesture by offering sweets to BSF.
“BSF has always been on the forefront in creating a peaceful and congenial atmosphere on Border while dominating the border effectively.”
It reads that such gestures help build a peaceful atmosphere and cordial relationships on border between both border guarding forces. (KNO)
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SRINAGAR: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) Dr Mandeep Kumar on Wednesday said that over three lakh pilgrims have so far registered for the longest-ever Amarnath yatra that would last for 62-days.
Addressing a press conference Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari said that Shrine Board and the UT administration is fully ready to welcome Yatris open-heartedly from July 1 onwards. “The yatra will last till August 32. This year’s pilgrimage will last for 62 days and will be the longest ever so far,” Bhandari said, adding that so far 3,0,4000 pilgrims have registered with the board through various modes of registration available.
“The figure is 10 per cent more than the last year,” he said.
He said that Yatris upto the age of 70 years can perform the pilgrimage. “Yatra can be performed from two routes—Baltal which involves 14.5 kms trekking and from Chandanwari where from Yatris have to trek 32 kms upto the cave shrine,” the CEO SASB said.
He said that yatri’s will perform the darshan of ice-lingum at the height of 13000 feet. “This year, yatra tracks on both the routes have been widened and hand railings have been installed. “
With the help of grid supply, Baltal track has been illuminated and with the supply from generator set, Chandanwari track has been illuminated too so that if any pilgrims gets stuck during night, he/she can walk smoothly,” he said, as per KNO.
The CEO said that 440 beds have been kept at both base camps to deal with the pilgrims who suffer from High Altitude sickness. “Internet and calling facilities have been ensured for pilgrims en route cave shrine from both tracks,” he said, adding that 4000 sanitary workers have been employed to collect trash and dispose of the same at base camps.
At various vulnerable points, helmets have been made available for the pilgrims so that they can protect themselves from shooting stones and landslides during heavy rains, the CEO said, adding that mountain rescue teams have been deployed en route cave shrine for quick evacuation.
He said that no pilgrim will be allowed to stay at the cave shrine for a night stay. “No pilgrim will be allowed to proceed for pilgrimage without RFID chips,” the CEO said, adding that tent facility to accommodate 70,000 pilgrims have been put in place—(KNO)
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SRINAGAR: The managing body of the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar said the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir disallowed Eid prayers at the mosque and the Eidgah in the city. The decision, which has been in effect for several years, was made known by the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid, the mosque’s managing body.
Devotees offering Friday Prayers at the holy shrine of Hazratbal on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) in Srinagar on Friday October 30, 2020. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur
A statement from the managing body stated, “This is to inform the public that authorities have conveyed to Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid that once again, Eid ul Adha prayers will not be allowed at the historic and central Eidgah Srinagar.”
The ban on Eid prayers at the Eidgah has been in place since 2016 when the killing of a rebel Burhan Wani led to concerns about law and order in the region. Protests erupted in the valley following Wani’s encounter on July 8, 2016, just days after Eid ul Fitr.
Despite the restrictions, however, Eid prayers were conducted peacefully across Kashmir. Adequate arrangements were made by the authorities and the Waqf board management at various Eidgahs and mosques to accommodate the devotees. Prominent figures like former chief ministers Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah offered their prayers at the Hazratbal shrine, while similar gatherings took place at mosques in Srinagar city and other districts.
Reports from different districts, including Anantnag, Shopian, Kulgam, Pulwama, Budgam, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara, highlighted significant turnouts of devotees. Religious leaders and preachers led the prayers, emphasizing the universal message of peace and coexistence as advocated by the holy Prophet.
No untoward incidents was reported from anywhere.
Similarly, Chrar-e-Sharief in Budgam and other Eidgahs across Jammu and Kashmir echoed with the resounding prayers of the faithful as people from various walks of life came together to celebrate the auspicious occasion.
In Jammu, the largest congregation was observed at Eid gah Jammu, where devotees gathered to offer prayers and seek blessings. The venue reverberated with the beautiful recitation of prayers and the heartfelt supplications of the worshipers.
An official said told news gatherer KNS that the administration and local authorities had made meticulous arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of prayers and to facilitate the comfort and safety of the worshipers. Adequate security measures were put in place to maintain a peaceful environment. Eid prayers concluded on peaceful note, he added.
(Photographs used in this report are merely reprsentational.)
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SRINAGAR: Hours before his colleagues gave him a warm send-off on his superannuation, Principal Secretary, Skill Development Department, Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon unveiled a series of significant reports and plans in the Civil Secretariat on Wednesday.
Dr Asgar Samoon, IAS
The releases encompassed crucial documents aimed at enhancing the quality and effectiveness of skill development programs in the region, an official spokesman said.
One of the reports released by Dr Samoon was a comprehensive review of courses offered by Polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs ) in Jammu and Kashmir. Prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the 479-page report extensively explores the current employment scenario and presents key findings, recommendations and proposals for comprehensive reforms in the skill development sector.
Besides, Samoon unveiled the district development plans for all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. These plans outline strategic initiatives and development projects designed to promote skill enhancement, entrepreneurship, and economic growth at the local level, he said. He added that the district development plans are a vital component of the department’s efforts to ensure holistic and inclusive development across the region.
Samoon also released a booklet of the Food Craft Institute Jammu, focusing on the significance and benefits of millets. The booklet serves as a valuable resource for promoting the consumption and cultivation of millets, highlighting their nutritional value and contribution to sustainable agriculture.
Maharat, a skilling initiative specifically designed for women in Jammu and Kashmir, was also launched.
Addressing the function, Samoon said that in 2023 the target is to impart different skills to 50000 women, empowering them to earn sustainable livelihoods. The Maharat programme aims to provide women with the necessary training and support to enhance their employability and economic independence, he maintained.
Later, in a separate function, Chief Secretary, Dr Arun Kumar Mehta joined other administrative Secretaries to bid farewell to Samoon. Speaking on the occasion, Samoon said that he has an emotional connection to J&K and has fond memories with everyone here and is overwhelmed by the affection he has received. He said that he has received out-of-way cooperation and support from everyone, officers, staff and people in whichever capacity he served them.
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SRINAGAR: Dr Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, the Chief Justice of India, laid the foundation stone for the new High Court complex of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh at Raika in Jammu on Wednesday. Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Manoj Sinha, and Brig BD were part of the ceremony.
Dr Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, the Chief Justice of India addressed the inaugural function of two IT initiatives for the High Court and all district courts in Jammu on June 28, 2023. Pic DIPR
The event also witnessed the launch of two significant IT initiatives: the Document Management System (DMS) for the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and the National Service and Tracking of Electronic Process (N-STEP) for District Courts.
Dr Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud expressed his admiration for judicial officers, referring to them as frontline warriors. He urged them to uphold the expectations of the common man who seeks justice. He emphasised the importance of ensuring access to justice for every section of society, particularly the poor and underprivileged.
The Chief Justice also emphasized the need to encourage the active participation of women in the justice system.
“The new High Court complex will be an integrated complex, equipped with state-of-the-art physical infrastructure and modern amenities,” Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said. He lauded the e-Committee of the Supreme Court and the Department of Law and Justice for their efforts in incorporating futuristic technologies such as artificial intelligence into the court system, ensuring seamless and efficient justice delivery. He commended the citizen-centric approach, ease of justice, and digital empowerment reflected in the millions of hits received by e-Court Services daily.
“The 75-year journey of India’s independence stands as a testament to democratic institutions fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of common citizens,” he said. “Our Constitution has served as a guiding light, ensuring prosperity, socio-economic progress, and dignity for all.” He stressed that the IT initiatives launched for the High Court and all District Courts would make the legal system inclusive and accessible to all.
On the occasion, the functionality of the DMS was showcased through a video presentation, and mobile phones equipped with the N-STEP Application were distributed to Process Servers to mark the initiative’s launch. The event was further embellished by the enchanting performance of the girl students from the Louis Braille Memorial Residential School, who presented the Saraswati Vandana.
The court complex is expected to cost Rs 938 crore.
The complex will have 35 courtrooms with the possibility to extend them to 70. It has been designed by architect Guneet Singh Chauhan who has designed many High Courts including Delhi High Court, metro stations and malls. Jammu and Kashmir Project Construction Corporation and the Public Works Department will be constructing the complex.
Reports appearing in the media suggest the complex will have three auditoriums, an administrative block, a mediation centre, a medical centre, a computer centre, a judges’ library, chambers for 1000 lawyers, facilities for litigants, food courts, an archive section, and a total of 35 judges and staff.
It will also be equipped with accommodation, Judicial Academy, convention facilities, a helipad, a fire station, a transport facility centre, etc. Besides, there will be sports, gym and yoga centre facilities for judges and lawyers. The project is targeted to be completed in one and a half years.
Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s Jammu premises was operating from Mubarak Mandi complex till the 1990s. In 1994, the High Court Complex was shifted to Janipur Jammu, in a huge premises where from the District Complex, the Advocate General’s office, the Judicial Academy and the Registrar’s Office also operated. Now a new complex is coming up in the Raika Jungle area on the outskirts of Jammu for which the Chief Justice of India laid the foundation stone on June 28.
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SRINAGAR: Additional Director General of Police Kashmir, Vijay Kumar, along with IG CRPF, BSF, and other officers, visited the Amarnath Cave to review security arrangements.
ADGP Kashmir Shri Vijay Kumar alongwith IG CRPF, IG BSF, 3 Sector Commander, SSP Anantnag & CO ITBP visited Panjtarni & #HolyCave. Reviewed #security arrangements & interacted with other stakeholders. All officers also inspected track jointly between panjtarni and Holy Cave. pic.twitter.com/rFK3kKl8PG
— Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) June 28, 2023
In a tweet, the Kashmir Zone Police wrote, “ADGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar, along with IG CRPF, IG BSF, 3 Sector Commander, SSP Anantnag, and CO ITBP, visited Panjtarni and the Holy Cave. They reviewed security arrangements and interacted with other stakeholders. All officers also jointly inspected the track between Panjtarni and the Holy Cave,” reads the tweet.
The Amarnath Yatra is set to commence on July 1st, 2023, a trek through the mountains of South Kashmir Himalayas to the Cave Shrine of Amarnath. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: A man and his son were washed away in a strong current of water in the Kunj nallah at Panjgrain Panchayat in tehsil Ramnagar, on Tuesday.
Police said that 45-year-old Dewan Chand and his son 12-year-old Sangam were going to attend a marriage ceremony when they tried to cross the flooded stream.
However, they could not cross the stream due to strong water current. Immediately, locals, Police, and State Disaster Response Force team rushed to the spot, but they could not find the drowned duo.
The incident took place around 6 pm when the deceased were on way to attend a marriage function in a nearby village and drowned while crossing the nallah, which was flooding because of heavy rain since last night.
Even as a rescue operation was immediately launched by locals and the Police party, led by SHO Ramnagar, Sohan Singh, bodies of both father and son were not traced.
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SRINAGAR: An unidentified person jumped into the River Jhelum near the Qamarwari Bridge in Srinagar district of central Kashmir, officials said Wednesday.
According to an SDRF official, they received information about an individual jumping into the river from the cement bridge in Qamarwari. The SDRF team immediately initiated a rescue operation.
“The identity of the person has not been ascertained yet, and efforts are underway to locate the body,” the official added.
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PDP leader, Mehbooba Mufti offering prayesr at the grave of Yusuf Shah Chak, Kashmir’s last sovreign, at Biswak (Nalanda) in Bihar on June 22, 2023, when she and Omar Abdullah were in Bihar for non-BJP opposition meeting.
Mehbooba Mufti, who is participating in the non-BJP opposition conclave at Patna, visited the grave of Yusuf Shah Chak in Bihar’s Nalanda district at Biswak. He was the last sovereign king in Kashmir’s history who was imprisoned by the Mughals. At Biswak village, the caretakers – said to be the descendants of the Chak icon – accompanied her to the grave where she offered a chaadarposhi and prayed for his eternal peace.
Yusuf Shah Chak succeeded his father, Ali Shah, in 1579. After Akbar annexed Kashmir in 1586, Chak was exiled to Nalanda where he was given land in the Islampur block and permitted to maintain a cavalry of 500 soldiers. The place where he settled was known as Kashmir Chak. Though he died in Odisha in 1592, his body was brought back to Islampur and buried at Biswak. The Chak cemetery is spread over 8 bigha (nearly 5 acres) of land, and Kashmir’s most famed poetess and his queen, Habba Khatoon, is also believed to be buried there. The basic protection wall around the spot was raised in 2016 by the then-motawallia (custodian), the late Abdul Rashid. His grandson Yasir Rashid is the current motawallia of the burial ground, which is in shambles and has become a safe haven for land-grabbers. There are 10 large and small graves within the boundary wall.
The timbstone on the grave of Yousuf Shah Chak at Biswak (NLanada) Bihar. Pic: Mehbooba Mufti
Given the fact that Nalanda is Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s hometown, Mehbooba appealed to him for the repair of the ruins.
With this visit, Mehbooba became the second top leader from Kashmir to visit the spot. Earlier, in 1977, then-Chief Minister Sheikh Abdullah visited the grave of the last Kashmiri king and returned after promising to develop and preserve the site. This led to the renaming of the local link road in his name.
Kashmir’s veteran journalist, Yusuf Jameel, wrote on Twitter that Sheikh Abdullah not only laid a new tombstone over Yusuf Shah’s grave, but the village also got a potable water supply after the locals made a plea before him, and he, in turn, spoke to his Bihar counterpart.
The former caretaker of the grave, Abdul Rashid, told The Hindu that in 2015, the Jammu and Kashmir government was “contemplating reclaiming the mortal remains of Yusuf Shah Chak, but nothing happened, and land-grabbers continued to have their field day.” He claimed to have written 200 letters to the governments of Bihar, Central, and Jammu and Kashmir for the development of the place that “holds significance not only for tourists but also for academics and historians.”
Interestingly, quite a few Muslim families now live in Biswak, once a bustling village of 100 households. Now, quite a few Kurmi, Yadav, and Other Backward and Extremely Backward Caste communities are living there. The mazaar is still threatened by land grabbers, even though it has been registered with the Bihar Rajya Sunni Wakf Board since 1963.
Between 2019 and 2022, Jammu and Kashmir reported 51,577 cases of cancer. Between 2018 and 2022, 35,623 people died from cancer.
CHRAR-E-SHARIEF
Yoga Day was celebrated at Charar I Sharief on June 22, 2023, on the occasion of International Yoga Day. (Image- Omar Abdullah’s Twitter Handle )
The International Yoga Day landed Kashmir in controversy as a yoga session was organised within the sprawling lawns of the shrine of Kashmir’s standard bearer saint, Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani. “The burial place of one of our most revered saints is used as a venue for a yoga day photo op!” Omar Abdullah said in a tweet. Srinagar Mayor Junaid Mattu also reacted to the “inconsiderate” idea. “An absolutely hare-brained, inconsiderate idea to organize a demonstration at the shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, Sheikh-Ul-Alam (RA),” Mattu said. “I’m all for Yoga, but this is immensely problematic. Places of religious importance should be treated with utmost sensitivity.” While local shrine managers and officials avoided responding to the event, the reaction came from a suspended IPS officer, Basant Rath, who is seeking entry into the BJP. “I have 13 questions for Omar. BJP is in power, and they organized Yoga (at the shrine). If you are so offended, please provide it in writing that your party will never form a coalition with BJP. I can provide it in writing that your hands are stained with the blood of innocent Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits,” Rath said. “During Omar’s tenure as CM, 180 children were killed within a year. Many people were unjustly imprisoned under the Public Safety Act (PSA), which was later overturned by the courts, indicating that they were fabricated. Will he answer these questions?”
Kashmir reported over 3,376 TB cases in 2022, 3,442 in 2021, and 2,840 in 2020.
JAMMU
Vice President India Jagdeep Dhankar
Speaking at a special convocation of Jammu University, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar described the abrogation of Article 370 as good riddance, insisting it was a temporary provision that lasted for seven decades. Insisting that the repeal of Articles 370 and 35-A paved the way for peace, development, and economic growth and helped realize the “dream” of Syama Prasad Mookerjee. “It (Article 370) was an aberration. These were temporary provisions in our constitution but lasted for 70 years. We are happy it’s not there now,” Dhankar said. “Dr B R Ambedkar, who had drafted other Articles of the Constitution, had refused to draft Article 370. Personally, for twenty years, I too had been advocating the abrogation of Articles 35A and 370. It was an aberration… We are happy that now it is not there.” He said the abrogation was the greatest homage to the life and mission of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who laid down his life for building a strong and united India. Post-abrogation, Dhankar said 890 Central laws were extended to Jammu and Kashmir, 200 laws were repealed, and hundreds were modified. The Vice President showered praise on Lt. Governor: “I was Manoj Sinha’s admirer, but today I became his follower. He has qualities that help society to grow. He is an example for the country.”
In the last six months, Kashmir was visited by 15,161 foreigners.
SHOPIAN
File Photo of Asiya and Neelofar
Almost 14 years later, the Jammu and Kashmir administration sacked two doctors for allegedly conniving with militants and fabricating evidence to make the drowning of two women, Asiya Jan and Neelofar of Shopian, appear as a rape-cum-murder case. Seven deaths took place and 103 were injured in the unrest triggered by the Shopian incident on May 30, 2009. Details now suggest that the 42-day unrest triggered 600 law and order incidents, 251 FIRs, and a business loss of Rs 6000 crore. CBI has charge-sheeted six doctors, five lawyers, and two civilians, including the brother of one of the deceased women, for fabricating evidence. When the commission appointed by the Omar Abdullah government, headed by a former judge, submitted its report, five policemen were arrested. They were later absolved of all charges after a CBI investigation.
Fifteen government-run and four private educational institutions recorded a zero per cent pass rate in matriculation. Budgam will have a 125-bed hospital at Reshipora.
WASHINGTON
PM Naredra Modi with Mrs and Mr Joe Biden US President on June 23, 2023.
Over 1,100 female students from various Jammu and Kashmir universities will embark on a free train college on wheels to various locations across India later this year. As many as 265 gold medal holders and 211 PhD degree holders will be part of the ‘knowledge’ trip.
KASHMIR
Apple growers spend almost half a year in spraying pesticides in their orchards.
With the weather behaving like a rollercoaster, Kashmir’s apple growers are facing a serious leaf miner infestation in orchards. It is a novel invasive pest that was detected for the first time in 2021 and has spread around. The Apple Leaf Blotch Miner (ALBM) pest destroys leaves after forming a circular blotch on them. This is a new problem for Kashmir’s key economy. The growers were already facing issues with aphids, San Jose scale, European red mites, and a set of scabs, which cumulatively make up a basket of 50 diseases. Although the growers are using recommended pesticides, the pest is still out of control.
The Blue Pansy butterfly has been declared the Butterfly of Jammu and Kashmir. How this status will help the butterfly or Jammu and Kashmir is yet unknown.
UDHAMPUR
Akriti Sharma, the daughter of a BSF man is joining IAF.
Inspired by her father, who serves in the BSF, Akriti Sharma, 23, is joining the Indian Air Force as a flying officer next month. A resident of hilly Magani village, she is joining the IAF Hyderabad Academy as an under-trainee flying officer. Sharma completed her schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya and graduated from the Government College for Women in Udhampur, where she was an NCC cadet. Earlier, she represented India in Vietnam under a youth exchange program.
KOLKATA
Reunion, an artwor
It has been an interesting reunion between a mother and daughter that was underreported in Kashmir. They met for the first time after 12 years, and many people made efforts for this reunion. The young lady, now 26, is married and settled in Baramulla. Credit goes to her husband’s nephew, who was desperate to locate her aunt’s roots. She had been brought by her own uncle to Kashmir and “married” her off, telling her in-laws she is 19 and her family lived in Madhavpur (West Bengal).
In 2017, the young man zeroed in on two people from West Bengal and asked Kolkata police to interrogate them so that they could get her aunt’s parents’ address. It failed. Then he started befriending people on Facebook and asking about Madhavpur. It also failed.
Then there was a revelation – one day while talking, his aunt said she was enrolled in a school and named it. Based on this, he used the internet and located Sunderbans School. He talked to the principal and shared the girl’s details. He discovered that the school had shut down in 2009 and was replaced by a school for boys. He again contacted the principal, who shared the data of the girl’s last five years in school.
Then he approached National Commission for Women (NCW) which put him in contact with a community HAM Radio. They put him in touch with the police station and the contact was established. Once the mother and daughter had a virtual reunion, she travelled to her birthplace on June 14, accompanied by four of her relatives including her husband. There were a couple of interesting things that came out. First, she had forgotten her mother tongue. Second, she had lost her home address. Third, she was actually taken by her own uncle and sold without telling anything to her parents.
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SRINAGAR: Esri, India’s leading end-to-end Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and solutions provider has announced a Masters level scholarship worth INR ten lakh for ten deserving students.
It is a one-time scholarship opportunity, and the amount for each student will be INR 1 lakh, the submission of the application should be done by July 10, 2023 and the scholarship results will be declared by the 3rd week of August 2023.
The scholarship is only applicable to students who are beginning their second year of a post-graduation course (MTech/MSc), in Geoinformatics or a course that involves studying remote sensing, GIS, spatial modelling, spatial analysis, digital image processing for GIS and related subjects at an institute/university in India are eligible for the Academic Year 2023-24 Scholarship.
Along with the fulfilment of other selection criteria, the scholarship will be awarded on the basis of their performance in the academic year 2022-23. Students must be of 18 years of age.
Further, the recommendations must be submitted by the institute/university where the student is pursuing the course. For the application process, the institute/university needs to download the application form, fill the form of the student, and get the form signed by the student and dean of the university.
Moreover, the list of documents submitted with the form is a scanned copy of student address proof, college ID, first-year marks card, synopsis of projects and statement of purpose. The institute needs to submit the form along with the documents to gis.education@esri.in
The applications will be elevated by the jury, and later the universities will be notified about the shortlisted candidates who will have to appear for a virtual interview.
— Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) June 26, 2023
The Kashmir Zone Police confirmed the incident through a tweet, stating, “01 local #terrorist neutralised. Identification and affiliation being ascertained. Incriminating material including arms and ammunition recovered. Search going on. Further details shall follow.”
The encounter took place at Hoowra in Kulgam district, where a joint posse of the army, police and CRPF had launched a targeted operation based on specific intelligence inputs. The forces cordoned off the area and engaged in a fierce gunfight with the terrorist.
During the encounter, the unidentified militant was neutralized. The injured cop was immediately evacuated and provided medical assistance.
Upon searching the area, the security forces recovered a significant amount of incriminating material, including a cache of arms and ammunition.
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SRINAGAR: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) will be removed from Jammu and Kashmir once peace returns to the Union Territory.
Addressing a security conclave in Jammu, the defence minister said the law will be removed from Jammu and Kashmir.
Adding further he said, ” While we have controlled the problem of insurgency in North East India, we have also been successful in controlling left-wing extremism.”
“Today AFSPA has been removed from large parts of North East. I am waiting for the day when permanent peace will come in Jammu and Kashmir and AFSPA will be removed from here too,” he added.
He, however, didn’t give any timeline for removal of AFSPA from J&K—(KNO)
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SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the transfers and postings of two Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, with immediate effect.
According to the General Administration Department (GAD) order, Dharam Paul, JKAS, Deputy Director of Libraries in Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director (Audio-Visual) in the Directorate of Information, J&K, against an available vacancy.
Additionally, Sunil Kumar, JKAS, who was awaiting orders of adjustment in the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, J&K, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director (Central) in the Directorate of Information, J&K, against an available vacancy.
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SRINAGAR: A young man from Tral town in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, who was injured in a road accident yesterday, succumbed to his injuries this morning at a hospital in Srinagar.
On Sunday, a collision occurred between a bike and a Sumo vehicle on Divar Road in Tral, resulting in serious injuries to the biker, Owais Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Saimoh Tral. He was receiving treatment at Army Hospital Srinagar.
According to local sources, Owais Ahmed passed away on Monday morning due to his injuries. He held the position of Moazin and Naib Imam at Khanqah Faiz Panah Tral.
The management of Khanqah Faiz Panah Tral has expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of Owais Ahmed. [KNT]
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SRINAGAR: A day after his sister’s death, the boy who was hospitalised here has also lost the battle for his life this early morning.
An official told GNS that Nazakat Ali (21), who was admitted at SKIMS Soura after being referred from JVC Hospital the previous day, succumbed despite receiving all necessary treatment.
It is pertinent to mention here that a girl named Nuzhat Afzal, sister of Nazakat Ali, died while trying to save her brother from drowning at Shahtul Pora in the Sumbal area on Sunday.
Meanwhile, a pall of gloom has descended on the native and adjacent villages due to the tragic death of the siblings. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: A 38-year-old man died of a cardiac arrest while playing a volleyball match at Naidkhai village of Sonawari in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Saturday late evening.
An official said Bilal Ahmed Wani (38), son of Mohammad Afzal Wani resident of Naidkhai died while playing a volleyball match at SKB ground Naidkhai soon after he complained about severe pain in the chest.
He said Wani was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital CHC Sumbal , where doctors declared him dead on arrival—(KS)
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SRINAGAR: In a tragic event, a sister drowned to death while attempting to rescue her brother in the Sumbal area of Baramulla district in north Kashmir.
Reports stated that a 21-year-old boy named Nazakat Ali drowned while bathing in a river in Shadipora of Sumbal area this morning. As the news spread, many onlookers and locals made efforts to rescue the boy. In the meantime, the sister of the drowned boy also jumped into the river in a frantic attempt to save her brother.
Although the boy was barely rescued, the girl was found to have lost her breath upon being pulled out of the water.
The deceased girl has been identified as Nuzhat Afzal, aged 18.
The rescued boy has been referred to JVC Hospital in critical condition.
Confirming the incident, a police official told GNS that they are collecting necessary details regarding the incident. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the 2nd Convocation of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Awantipora on Saturday.
Prof K Kasturirangan, Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the National Education Policy 2020, was the chief guest on the occasion.
Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of IUST, presented the University report and highlighted the achievements of the University.
During the convocation, 72 students were conferred with Gold Medals, while 147 students were awarded merit certificates.
A total of 3000 students have been awarded degrees for the academic year 2020-21 and 2021-22.
The Lt Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University, congratulated the graduating students and gold medalists for their achievements and wished them the very best.
“The Convocation is also an opportunity to celebrate eternal values: humility, creativity, righteousness, individuality, and compassion, nurtured by the institution. These values are invisible gold medals that empower students to create a better future for the country,” Lt Governor said.
Addressing the students and faculty members, the Lt Governor exhorted the youth to focus on innovation, new ideas, and new technologies that will shape the future.
“Education is the birth of new consciousness. It is the energy of society. Education is ecstasy, education is elation, education is elegance, education is empowerment, education is enrichment. Education enables students to attain the highest peak in life,” the Lt Governor said.
Being truly educated requires the courage to break the artificial barriers between subjects, preferring independent thinking, creativity, research, and new inventions instead of becoming another memory hard disk in the world, he added.
Education must draw out all that is unique in students, and individuality must be promoted so that students stepping out of campus and entering the professional world will not be a hard disk of memories or a storehouse of information. Instead, they will be a powerhouse of infinite creativity, the Lt Governor further added.
The Lt Governor impressed upon the universities, educational institutions, and the teaching community to adapt to a future-oriented learning approach that goes beyond the classrooms and prepares the students for future challenges and opportunities.
“In this era of acceleration, teachers’ role has expanded. They are not just information providers or a medium to complete the syllabus. Teachers are artisans, and they need to shape the minds and consciousness of the new generation,” the Lt Governor said.
Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the National Education Policy is empowering our students to succeed in a machine-dominated world, and it is blended with a value system to ensure a perfect balance in the inner and outer growth of every student, the Lt Governor said.
“Education should awaken inner curiosity and critical thinking. It should trigger more questions in classrooms and provide the courage to walk on an unknown path. Through NEP 2020, efforts are being made to ensure that our classrooms reflect the real world instead of four walls,” he observed.
Speaking on the recent technological advancements, the Lt Governor said they will have a transformative impact on society.
“Technology is moving faster than ever before, and it is increasingly transforming the way we live, socialize, travel, and work. Our human capital is facing a completely different future, and it is time that our classrooms and campuses recognize the radical shift and create a new ecosystem,” the Lt Governor said.
He said the classrooms and labs need to reinvent themselves on the lines of the National Education Policy, not only to maintain a competitive edge but also to remain relevant.
The change is also affecting the field of Humanities. The biggest challenge is to make the resolution of an inclusive society and an empowered individual a reality in the midst of rapid changes and bridge the digital divide in society, he added.
“The challenge before us is to work on skills that will remain relevant in the future. We cannot imagine the world of 2050, but core skills like analytical thinking, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, individuality, originality, uniqueness, resilience, and leadership will remain relevant,” the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor also appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and faculty members of IUST for providing a conducive learning environment to the students and empowering them to contribute to nation-building.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof K Kasturirangan, Chairman of the NEP Drafting Committee, congratulated the graduating students and lauded their spirit, enthusiasm, and curiosity. “Your mission of higher learning with great passion should not end here. Never give up on your dreams and aspirations,” he said.
Prof Kasturirangan commended the Lt Governor-led UT Administration for taking unprecedented measures to bring reforms in the education system and implementing the National Education Policy.
Prof Kasturirangan also highlighted the key role of universities and teachers in the effective implementation of NEP 2020.
Choudhary Mohd Yousuf Gorsi, Chairman District Development Council Anantnag; Hasnain Masoodi, Member of Parliament; Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lt Governor; Vice-Chancellors and former Vice-Chancellors of various universities; Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar IUST; faculty members, and students attended the Convocation ceremony. (KNO)
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SRINAGAR: Overnight rains brought some respite from hot and humid weather conditions as night temperature recorded a drop at most places in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, officials said.
A meteorological official said that Srinagar received 1.2mm of rain, Qazigund traces, Pahalgam 1.1mm, Kupwara 0.2mm, Banihal 1.4mm, Batote 8.6mm, Katra 2.2.mm and Bhaderwah 0.4mm.
Regarding the temperature, he said, Srinagar recorded a low of 19.8°C against 22.4°C on the previous night but it remained above normal by 2.5°C for the summer capital.
Qazigund, he said, recorded a low of 15.7°C against 20.0°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 2.1°C for the gateway town of Kashmir.
Pahalgam, he said, recorded a low of 13.1°C against 13.3°C on the previous night and it was 2.4°C above normal for the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Kupwara town, he said, the mercury settled at 19.2°C against 19.6°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 3.8°C for the north Kashmir area.
Kokernag recorded a low of 20.0°C against 19.3°C on the previous night and it was 5.9°C above normal for the place, the officials said.
Gulmarg recorded a low of 4.6°C against 14.4°C on previous night and it was above normal by minus 6.8°C for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, he said.
Jammu recorded a low of 29.1°C against 28.5°C on the previous night and it was 2.7°C above normal for J&K’s winter capital, he said.
Banihal recorded a low of 19.1°C (2.7°C above normal), Batote 20.1°C (2.1°C above normal), Katra 22.8°C (0.3°C below normal) and Bhaderwah 16.4°C (above normal by 4.6°C). Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil recorded a low of 13.0°C and 18.9°C respectively, he said.
The MeT department has forecast fairly widespread light rain/thunderstorm in Kashmir and widespread moderate rain/TS over Jammu Division during next 24 hours. Widespread light to moderate monsoon rain has been forecast thereafter for subsequent two days in J&K. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Indian Meteorological Department on Saturday declared the onset of monsoon over Jammu and Kashmir.
Quoting a meteorological department official, GNS reported that from June 25-28, generally cloudy weather with intermittent light to moderate thundershower was expected at many places. “Few places over Jammu Division may receive heavy rainfall with intense showers for brief period,” he said.
He said there is possibility of moderate to severe thunder and lightning with strong surface winds at few places during the period.
He predicted respite from the current heatwave over many parts of J&K.
“Expect significant increase in water discharges in rivers, local Nallahs, flood channels due to melting glaciers/snow and rain during 25-28th which may generate localized Flash flood, Mudslide and Landslides,” the IMD said.
He said there are chances of torrential rains at few middle and higher reaches of Jammu division during above period.
“It may cause temporary disruption of surface transportation, especially over passes and higher reaches.”
Meanwhile, rains lashed parts of J&K on Saturday, bringing respite from scorching heat conditions. On Saturday, Kashmir Valley recorded another day of scorching day with Srinagar recording maximum of 34.8° against 35.0° which was highest June day recorded in a decade.
Also, Srinagar recorded a low of 22.4°C against 21.0°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 6.6°C for the summer capital.
Qazigund, he said, recorded a low of 20.0°C against 19.0°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 5.7°C for the gateway town of Kashmir.
Pahalgam, he said, recorded a low of 13.3°C against 10.6°C on the previous night and it was 4.2°C above normal for the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
In Kupwara town, he said, the mercury settled at 19.6°C against 17.8°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 5.5°C for the north Kashmir area.
Kokernag recorded a low of 20.0°C against 19.3°C on the previous night and it was 5.9°C above normal for the place, the officials said.
Gulmarg recorded a low of 14.4°C against 15.4°C on previous night and it was above normal by 4.2°C for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, he said.
Jammu recorded a low of 28.5°C against 31.2°C on the previous night and it was 2.4°C above normal for J&K’s winter capital, he said.
Banihal recorded a low of 21.3°C (6.2°C above normal), Batote 22.9°C (5.7°C above normal), Katra 25.4°C (3.4°C below normal) and Bhaderwah 21.8°C (above normal by 6.9°C). Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil recorded a low of 12.0°C and 15.8°C respectively, he said. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) and the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Bandipora have successfully reunited an abandoned girl child with her family.
The girl child, who was handed over to the Protection Officer (Non-Institutional Care) by the police, was presented before the CWC in Bandipora. The CWC ordered the Superintendent of the Child Care Institution for girls to provide all the basic needs of the child until her family could be located.
The CWC, responsible for ensuring the welfare of children in need of care and protection, took up the case and conducted investigations to identify the child and locate her family. With the assistance of the police and DCPU officials from Mission Vatsalya, Bandipora, the CWC successfully traced the child’s father.
The DCPU and the CWC collaborated to reunite the child with her family, ensuring that all necessary legal and administrative procedures were followed. The child’s father was overjoyed to be reunited with his daughter and expressed his gratitude to the DCPU and the CWC for their efforts.
The process was supervised by the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), Obaid-ul-Khazir. “We are dedicated to the welfare of children in need of care and protection. The entire team is working unitedly for the betterment of such children,” he stated.
Regarding the successful reunion, Chairperson of CWC Bandipora, Dr Aisma Hassan, said, “The safe and timely reunion of the child with her family is a testament to the coordinated efforts of all concerned authorities, especially PONIC DCPU Bandipora Gowhar Mahmood and Sakib Shabir. The DCPU and the CWC remain committed to ensuring the welfare and protection of all children in need.”
The successful reunion of the abandoned girl child with her family serves as a heartening example of the effective functioning of the DCPU and the CWC in ensuring the welfare and protection of vulnerable children. (KNO)
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SRINAGAR: While weathermen forecast respite from the heat wave from June 26, upward trend in night temperature continued at most places in Jammu and Kashmir with Srinagar recording above six degree Celsius on Saturday.
A meteorological department official said that Srinagar recorded a low of 22.4°C against 21.0°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 6.6°C for the summer capital.
Qazigund, he said, recorded a low of 20.0°C against 19.0°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 5.7°C for the gateway town of Kashmir.
Pahalgam, he said, recorded a low of 13.3°C against 10.6°C on the previous night and it was 4.2°C above normal for the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
In Kupwara town, he said, the mercury settled at 19.6°C against 17.8°C on the previous night and it was above normal by 5.5°C for the north Kashmir area.
Kokernag recorded a low of 20.0°C against 19.3°C on the previous night and it was 5.9°C above normal for the place, the officials said.
Gulmarg recorded a low of 14.4°C against 15.4°C on previous night and it was above normal by 4.2°C for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, he said.
Jammu recorded a low of 28.5°C against 31.2°C on the previous night and it was 2.4°C above normal for J&K’s winter capital, he said.
Banihal recorded a low of 21.3°C (6.2°C above normal), Batote 22.9°C (5.7°C above normal), Katra 25.4°C (3.4°C below normal) and Bhaderwah 21.8°C (above normal by 6.9°C). Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil recorded a low of 12.0°C and 15.8°C respectively, he said.
He said respite from heat wave in J&K was very likely from June 26 as intermittent rain/thunderstorm is expected during the 25th(evening)-28th. “Some places of J&K may receive heavy Rain/Thunderstorm & lighting,” he said. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Four people, including three women and a minor girl, sustained injuries after being attacked by a fox in the Lacchhe area of Handwara on Friday.
According to reports, the victims are Saja Begum (70), wife of Mohammad Dayam War; Mugli Begum (60), wife of Mohammad Shaban Ahanger; Khalida Begum (28), wife of Shabir Ahmad War; and a four-year-old girl, Ayat Irshad, daughter of Irshad Ahmad Ahanger. They were attacked by a fox on Friday evening.
The injured individuals were initially taken to a nearby health facility and later shifted to District Hospital Handwara.
When contacted, a medical official at DH Handwara informed GNS that the injured persons are in stable condition, and there is no major concern about their overall well-being. “They are receiving the necessary treatment and are likely to be discharged soon,” the medical official said. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: The Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) issued a circular on Friday in response to concerns raised by parents, civil society members, and disability rights activists regarding the denial of admissions to Children with Special Needs (CwSN).
The circular emphasises the importance of implementing the provisions of the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009 and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act of 2016 to ensure equal access to education for all children.
According to Section 3(2) of the RTE Act, “a child with a disability shall have the right to pursue free and compulsory elementary education.”
Furthermore, the RTE Amendment Act of 2012 introduced the definition of children with disabilities and other measures to support their education.
“Despite these legal provisions, complaints have been received regarding schools denying admission to children with special needs,” reads the DSEK circular.
Recognizing the importance of including children with disabilities in mainstream education, the circular highlights various initiatives and steps being taken to create an inclusive learning environment.
These measures include the formal identification and assessment of children with special needs, barrier-free access to and from the school premises, and the provision of appropriate teaching aids within inclusive classrooms.
To ensure the protection of the educational rights of children with special needs, the circular instructs all relevant officers, including Joint Directors (SED), Chief Education Officers, Cluster Heads, and Zonal Education Officers, to ensure that no school denies admission to children with special needs.
“The aim is to create an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all children, regardless of their abilities,” it states.
The circular also serves as a reminder to all school heads, both in government and private institutions, that denying admissions to Children with Special Needs is strictly prohibited.
“Any deviation from this directive may result in disciplinary action against the responsible parties as per the established rules and regulations,” it concludes. (KNO)
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SRINAGAR: Lashing out at the Gandhis, Abdullahs, and Muftis, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday accused the three families of being responsible for the killing of 42,000 people in J&K from 1947 to 2014. He stated that the successful G-20 in Srinagar was a grand success, and all the participants have returned to their respective countries with the message.
Addressing a gathering at Bhagwati Nagar Rally Ground in Jammu, the Home Minister said that gone are the days when three families would rule and ruin J&K. “From 1947 to 2014, 42,000 people were killed in J&K. Who was ruling during this period? Three families—the Gandhis, Abdullahs, and Muftis.”
Paying tribute to the BJP ideologue, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, on his death anniversary, Shah said that Mukherjee was illegally arrested in 1953 for entering J&K without a permit. “Why should one need a permit to enter their own country? He was jailed and later assassinated,” Shah said, adding that today the “soul of Mukherjee will be resting in peace as his mission and vision of Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, and Ek Pradhan stands fulfilled.”
The Home Minister said that Dr Mukherjee was the first to oppose the inclusion of Article 370 into the Indian constitution, stating that “one nation can’t have two flags, two constitutions, and two heads.” “On August 5, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a big step and removed Article 370 forever, fulfilling Dr Mukherjee’s vision,” Shah said, adding that if West Bengal is with India today, it is due to the vision of Dr Mukherjee.
He mentioned that India is celebrating nine years of PM Modi’s rule. “Modi’s rule is an open book. It is not like the UPA that had a Rs 12 lakh crore scam. There is not even a single corruption allegation against Modi during his nine-year rule,” Shah said, as per KNO.
He stated that Jammu is reaching new heights of development, and today multi-crore projects were inaugurated in the city. Shah said that the BJP has tightened the noose on militancy, and today “,militancy is on its deathbed.” “In the UPA’s ten-year rule, there were 60,327 terrorism incidents. In Modi’s nine-year rule, terrorism reached its lowest ebb. In the 47 months after the abrogation of Article 370, there were only 32 calls for strikes, while stone pelting declined by 90 percent,” he said, adding, “The youth of J&K have replaced stones with laptops and books.”
Shah mentioned that in 2022, for the first time, 1.88 crore tourists visited J&K. Seeking support for Modi from the people of Jammu for the 2024 parliamentary polls, he said there is no comparison between “Rahul Baba and Modi ji.” “We will win over 300 seats in the 2024 polls,” he said. The Home Minister said that the successful G-20 summit in Srinagar from May 22 to May 25 this year was a “grand success.”
“Every foreign dignitary has returned to their respective countries with the message of peace and the changing Kashmir post Article 370 abrogation,” he said and credited LG Manoj Sinha for the smooth conduct of the G-20 summit in Srinagar. Shah will arrive in Kashmir later this afternoon after paying obeisance at Tirupati Mandir in Jammu. (KNO)
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SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Department here has issued a yellow warning (“be aware”) for an “isolated heat wave” in the Kashmir Valley today and tomorrow.
A meteorological department official informed GNS that while dry weather is expected, there is a possibility of isolated (1-25% chances) rainfall during these days. From June 25 to 29, “scattered to fairly widespread light rain and thunderstorms” have been forecasted in Jammu and Kashmir.
Regarding the minimum temperature on Friday, the official stated that Srinagar recorded a low of 21.0°C compared to 20.5°C on the previous night, which was 5.2°C above normal for the summer capital.
Qazigund recorded a low of 19.0°C against 17.2°C on the previous night, with a deviation of 4.7°C above normal for the gateway town of Kashmir.
Pahalgam recorded a low of 10.6°C compared to 11.3°C on the previous night, which was 1.5°C above normal for the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
In Kupwara town, the mercury settled at 17.8°C against 17.4°C on the previous night, with a deviation of 3.7°C above normal for the north Kashmir area.
According to officials, Kokernag recorded a low of 19.3°C against 17.7°C on the previous night, which was 5.2°C above normal for the location.
Gulmarg recorded a low of 15.4°C compared to 13.5°C on the previous night, with a deviation of 5.2°C above normal for the world-famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
Jammu recorded a low of 31.2°C against 27.8°C on the previous night, with a deviation of 5.1°C above normal for J&K’s winter capital.
Banihal recorded a low of 21.1°C (6.0°C above normal), Batote 22.4°C (5.2°C above normal), Katra 27.0°C (5.0°C below normal), and Bhaderwah 20.8°C (5.9°C above normal). Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil recorded a low of 8.8°C and 16.5°C, respectively, the official said. (GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Police on Friday claimed to have killed four militants in Kala Jungle of Machil sector in North Kashmir’s Kupwara.
Informing via their official Twitter handle, The Kashmir Zone Police wrote, “In a joint operation, Army and Police have killed four militants in Kala Jungle of Machhal sector in Kupwara who were trying to infiltrate to our side from POJK,”.
Pertinently, five foreign militants were killed on 16th June in Jumagund area near the LoC in Kupwara.(GNS)
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SRINAGAR: Two deaf and mute orphan siblings from the Hussanpora Bagh area of Bijbehara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district have excelled in the 10th class examination, the results of which were declared on Monday.
Mohammad Ahsan and Bisma Jan, students of the Zaiba Appa Institute of Inclusive Education in Bijbehara, secured 361 and 389 marks, respectively. The siblings lost their parents about a decade ago and have been raised by their brother.
In a conversation with the news agency KNO through sign language, Ahsan and Bisma expressed their gratitude to Javed Ahmad Tak, a Padma Shri awardee who established the school, providing education to hundreds of specially-abled students.
They emphasised that individuals with disabilities should never lose hope but should pursue their dreams with passion. They believe that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can lead a successful and joyful life.
However, the siblings expressed the need for separate schools and colleges for specially-abled children to enable them to lead independent lives.
Their brother, Owais Ahmad, shared the challenges he faced while Ahsan and Bisma were studying in primary classes. Despite working as a laborer, Owais is determined to ensure that his siblings continue their education, allowing them to secure good jobs and be self-reliant. (KNO)
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