DECEMBER 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha handed over appointment letter to Mst. Sagera Bi, wife of Havaldar Abdul Majid, at Raj Bhawan today. The family members of the martyr were also present.
The Lt Governor paid homage to the Havaldar Abdul Majid who made supreme sacrifice for the nation during an anti-terror operation in Rajouri. He assured every possible assistance and support to the family of the braveheart.
Earlier this month, the Lieutenant Governor had visited the family members of the Havaldar Abdul Majid in Ajote, Poonch.(KNS)
NOK Desk
Celebrating Kashmir’s Artistry: Handicrafts and Handloom Exhibition Unveiled at Boulevard Road, Srinagar
The Handicrafts & Handloom Department in Kashmir has launched a Handicrafts and Handloom Exhibition at Boulevard Road in Srinagar, showcasing a diverse range of products. Organized by the district Srinagar’s Handicrafts and Handloom Department, the exhibition aims to boost sales and provide consistent employment for artisans and weavers.
Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Director of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, inaugurated the exhibition alongside Khalid Majeed, Director of Industries & Commerce, Kashmir, and senior department officers. The ten-day expo along the scenic Boulevard Road features stalls allocated to artisans free of charge, promoting the display and sale of authentic handicrafts.
Various crafts such as Sozni, Papier Mache, Carpet, Leather, Crewel, and Pashmina are highlighted at the exhibition. The location along the picturesque Dal Lake adds to the charm of the event, providing artisans a platform to directly engage with buyers and tourists. The Director emphasized the exhibition’s role in connecting artisans with customers, while Mohsina Irshad, Assistant Director of Handicrafts and Handloom Srinagar, highlighted its impact on local entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and tourism promotion. The event not only supports the local economy but also showcases the cultural richness of Kashmir to a diverse audience.
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa: A Symphony of Timeless Elegance and Enchanting Hospitality in Gulmarg
Nestled within a convenient 65 km drive from Srinagar Airport, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa stands as an expansive estate, elevating itself beyond the ordinary.
Embark on an unparalleled, year-round journey at The Khyber, where the valley undergoes a transformative spectacle. Summers unveil lush green meadows adorned with the brightest blooms, while fall immerses you in splendid sepia hues and autumnal skies. Yet, nothing quite prepares you for the enchanting winter wonderland of a snow-covered Gulmarg. The experience is so sublime that the arrival of a gorgeous spring, painting the region in a brilliant shade of lavender, almost feels bittersweet.
Architectural Marvel
As stewards of a land celebrated in folklore and romantic poetry for its breathtaking beauty, we wish to unveil the hidden treasures beneath the surface. The Khyber stands as a microcosm of all things Kashmir, preserving its heritage in meaningful ways. From Khatambandi ceilings to remarkable expressions in wood and stonework, and landscaping reminiscent of the state’s fabled gardens, our homage to Kashmir’s unique architecture is evident from the moment you step in.
Cultural Odyssey
At Khyber, we meticulously curate every detail of Kashmir’s cherished heritage, contributing to its moniker of “Jannat” or heaven on earth. Join us on a journey to discover a Kashmir beyond the obvious through the hotel’s extensive art collection, a breathtaking display of photographs, and textiles capturing the colors and complexities of the land. Culinary masterpieces, crafted from family recipes, further enrich this cultural odyssey.
Exquisite Hospitality
Guests and members at Khyber embark on a familiar journey, experiencing destinations in an entirely new light with the insider expertise of our sophisticated hoteliers. Their passion for hospitality is evident in tangible and intangible ways, offering discreet and unobtrusive service, available at a distance when privacy is desired.
Think world-class hospitality that is polished, professional, and warm, yet never stifling – infused with a touch of enchanting Kashmiri informality.
Awards and Timeless Elegance
Almost immune to the passage of time and changing trends, The Khyber meticulously preserves every detail from the past. Adorned with locally sourced timber, exposed stone, Italian marbles, and fine fabrics complemented by elements of Kashmir’s crafts, each of the 80 rooms and 5 luxury cottages at The Khyber exudes a timeless appeal, transporting you back to an elegant era.
One Nation One Transit Pass System: Transforming Forest Produce Transportation Across India
The virtual inauguration of a groundbreaking initiative, the ‘One Nation One Transit Pass system,’ took place today, as Union Minister for Forest and Environment, Bhupender Yadav, flagged off vehicles from Srinagar to Pune, Maharashtra State, and from Gandhinagar, Gujarat, to West Bengal. Leveraging the National Transit Pass System (NTPS), this ambitious project is poised to revolutionize the transportation of forest produce, promoting a seamless flow within states and across state borders.
This move aligns with the government’s commitment to e-governance initiatives, aiming to enhance Ease of Doing Business, transparency, accountability, and overall efficiency in governmental systems. The ‘One Nation One Transit Pass system’ seeks to facilitate the swift and trouble-free movement of timber and other forest produce, benefitting farmers, timber traders, and the general populace.
Union Minister Yadav expressed optimism about the positive impact of this initiative, emphasizing that it would empower transporters to move their products across India with a single permit. The system eliminates the need for stops at inter-state borders, enabling vehicles to reach their destinations in record time. Yadav underscored the government’s dual commitment to promoting development while safeguarding and conserving the environment for the improved quality of life of citizens.
During the virtual event, Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ashwani Kumar Choubey, along with the Director General of Forests & Special Secretary, Government of India, also shared their perspectives on the transformative initiative.
Meanwhile, in Srinagar, Additional Chief Secretary for Forest, Ecology, and Environment in the Jammu and Kashmir Government, Dheeraj Gupta, highlighted the people-centric nature of the new system. Gupta emphasized its benefits for timber traders, owners of wood industries, farmers, and the general public. Roshan Jaggi, PCCF & HoFF of the Jammu and Kashmir Government, noted that the region is a pioneer in fully transitioning to the new online system, a testament to the department’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.
Jaggi further informed that the department is undertaking various initiatives to enhance the livelihoods of local communities, including the new NTFP policy, waste-to-wealth activities, and Van se Jal, Jal se Jeevan initiatives. Notably, in the last few months, the department has issued approximately 7000 transport permits and NoCs under the new NTPS system, marking a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining its operations.
Chief Prosecuting Officers Appointed as Acting Deputy Directors in the Prosecution Department
Twelve Chief Prosecuting Officers (CPOs) have been designated as Acting Deputy Directors within the Prosecution Department.
The approval has been granted for the assignment of these Chief Prosecuting Officers as Acting Deputy Directors in the Prosecution department, maintaining their existing pay and grade. This assignment is effective for a duration of six months or until the positions are permanently filled through the recommendations of the Departmental Promotion Committee or Public Service Commission (DPC or PSC), whichever occurs first. This directive is outlined in an official order issued by Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) Home, Raj Kumar Goyal.
The Chief Prosecuting Officers appointed as Acting Deputy Directors are Nazir Ahmed Naikoo, Harminder Singh, Kamal Sharma, Suresh Kumar, Prashant Mahajan, Aijaz Hussain, Javaid Ahamad Bhat, Davinder Paul Singh, Muhammad Maqbool Shah, Vikrant Sharma, Ashish Rathore, and Ghulam Jeelani Dar.
These arrangements have been implemented solely in the interest of administration, serving as temporary measures and do not grant any preferential rights to these officers for promotion. The promotions will be strictly governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Prosecution Service Recruitment Rules 2020, as emphasized by Goyal. Furthermore, these placements are made without prejudice to any ongoing writ petition(s) before any Court or Tribunal of competent jurisdiction, as highlighted by Goyal.
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Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh Champions Environmental Stewardship in Birding Event at Chatlam Wetland Reserve
Srinagar, December 29 : Demonstrating a commendable dedication to environmental conservation, Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh of Jammu and Kashmir recently took charge of a birding event at the scenic Chatlam Wetland Reserve in Pampore.
The event went beyond merely admiring the array of bird species, aiming to mobilize both the community and students towards active engagement in conservation initiatives. Chief Justice Singh, while immersed in the event, highlighted the crucial role that each individual plays in maintaining the fragile equilibrium of nature.
Encouraging both students and community members, Chief Justice Singh advocated for a proactive stance on conservation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding vital ecosystems such as the Chatlam Wetland Reserve.
As Chief Justice Singh observed various bird species thriving in their natural habitat, he provided insights into the interdependence of biodiversity and a flourishing environment. His presence acted as a catalyst for increased awareness, instilling a sense of responsibility among attendees for the region’s diverse ecological heritage.
This birding event at Chatlam Wetland Reserve, spearheaded by the Chief Justice, underscores the judiciary’s commitment to broader societal concerns. It not only celebrated the rich avian diversity of the area but also sought to kindle a collective sense of obligation towards preserving the natural marvels that contribute to the cultural and environmental identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gulmarg Golf Course Set to Host a Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration
December 29, 2023 : As the year 2023 draws to a close, the picturesque Gulmarg Golf Course is gearing up to host an enchanting New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31st. Tourism officials shared with KNS that the iconic venue will be transformed into a dazzling spectacle, featuring music, a mesmerizing laser light and sound show, and performances by renowned artists such as Abha Hanjura, Adil Gurezi, and Afaq Shafi, known for their exceptional journey on Indian Idol.
The New Year’s Eve festivities are expected to be a grand affair, attracting both locals and visitors to the renowned golf course. Attendees can anticipate a unique fusion of talent, entertainment, and the stunning backdrop of Gulmarg’s snow-covered landscape.
Abha Hanjura, celebrated for her soulful renditions, will grace the stage with her melodious voice, offering a diverse range of musical genres. Adil Gurezi, a beloved artist in the region, will infuse the event with his signature style, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
Afaq Shafi, recognized for his prominence on Indian Idol, is set to captivate the audience with his powerful and versatile vocal performances.
The highlight of the night will be a spectacular laser light and sound show, illuminating the Gulmarg sky with a symphony of colors and patterns. The fusion of music and cutting-edge visual effects promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Organizers are urging attendees to mark their calendars for this unparalleled celebration, emphasizing that it will be a night filled with joy, music, and the spirit of New Year’s Eve.
The Gulmarg Golf Course, already renowned for its breathtaking beauty, will be transformed into a magical setting for welcoming 2024 in style.
As anticipation builds, residents and visitors are advised to secure their spots early to ensure they do not miss out on what promises to be the highlight of the year-end festivities in Gulmarg.
With a stellar lineup of performers and a stunning showcase of lights, the event is poised to be a fitting farewell to 2023 and a vibrant welcome to the possibilities of the coming year.
Invitation for Finalists: Kashmir Cricket League (KCL) Seeks Final Match Schedule Input from Teams
, Dec 28 (KNS): Kashmir News Service Pvt. Ltd. has invited two finalist teams and tournament collaborators of Kashmir Cricket League(KCL) to share their available schedule so that final match of the league could be played in time.
In a statement issued here, KNS, which organised the Kashmir Cricket League(KCL) in Budgam in collaboration with Youth Services and Sports & JK Sports Council requested the teams that reached the finals of the league, Sports Council and Youth Services and Sports department to share their available scheduled with them so that final match could be played.
The inaugural match was played on September 20 this years. A total of 32 teams participated in the tournament.
62 matches including two semi-finals have been played and now the final match of this league will be played on the date when both teams and collaborators will be available.
Both teams and JK Sports Council and Youth Services and Sports are requested to share their available schedule with us,” the statement reads. (KNS)
Misleading narratives being spread to justify abrogation of Art 370: Yousf Tarigami
Dec 28 (KNS): Senior CPI(M) leader Mohamamd Yousuf Tarigami Thursday said that misleading narratives are persistently being propagated to make people of Jammu and Kashmir realize about the benefits of the abrogation of the special constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, which was taken away by the Centre on August 05, 2019.
Referring to the statement of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that implementation of Anand Marriage Act to Jammu and Kashmir became possible only because of the abrogation of article 370, Tarigami said that there has been a long list of amendments made to article 370, allowing the application of Central laws to Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the passage of GST in 2017 by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was one of such instances in recent times, and added there were 42 constitution (Application to J&K) orders extending the scope of central intervention which were not envisaged at the time of the adoption of Article 370.
Additionally, the extent of the misuse of Article 370 to encroach on the state’s power can be seen from one of the measures taken in July 1986.
The President issued an order under Article 370, extending Article 249 of the Constitution to the state. This empowered the Parliament to legislate on matters in the state list based on a resolution from the Rajya Sabha, Tarigami said.
Pertinently, it received approval from the centrally-appointed Governor, Jagmohan. Such overriding of the state list is unique to Jammu and Kashmir and isn’t applicable to other states, he held. (KNS)
Dec 28 (KNS): Senior CPI(M) leader Mohamamd Yousuf Tarigami Thursday said that misleading narratives are persistently being propagated to make people of Jammu and Kashmir realize about the benefits of the abrogation of the special constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, which was taken away by the Centre on August 05, 2019.
Referring to the statement of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that implementation of Anand Marriage Act to Jammu and Kashmir became possible only because of the abrogation of article 370, Tarigami said that there has been a long list of amendments made to article 370, allowing the application of Central laws to Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the passage of GST in 2017 by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was one of such instances in recent times, and added there were 42 constitution (Application to J&K) orders extending the scope of central intervention which were not envisaged at the time of the adoption of Article 370.
Additionally, the extent of the misuse of Article 370 to encroach on the state’s power can be seen from one of the measures taken in July 1986.
The President issued an order under Article 370, extending Article 249 of the Constitution to the state. This empowered the Parliament to legislate on matters in the state list based on a resolution from the Rajya Sabha, Tarigami said.
Pertinently, it received approval from the centrally-appointed Governor, Jagmohan. Such overriding of the state list is unique to Jammu and Kashmir and isn’t applicable to other states, he held. (KNS)
Efforts on to trace-out attackers targeting police personnel: IGP Kashmir VK Birdhi
Dec 28 (KNS): Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Vidhi Kumar Birdhi Thursday said that J&K Police is working on vigorously to trace-out attackers who had targeted police personnel in Valley.
IGP urged policemen to take utmost precautions during on & off duty modes and remain vigilant to thwart the designs of terrorists.
Talking exclusively to news wire Kashmir News Service (KNS) – IGP Kashmir said that J&K Police is working on to trace out those attackers who recently targeted our police personnel. He said that challenges have always been there when it comes to attacks on policemen but there are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) laid down by the department to thwart the designs of terrorists.
“SOPs should be strictly followed in letter and spirit. We are identifying culprits involved in attacks. Investigation is underway and soon elements behind such acts will be brought to justice,” IGP Kashmir said.
To a reply the IGP said it is a great achievement for Jammu & Kashmir Police that Shergadi Police Station has been selected as one of the top three police stations in the country. “It is a great achievement and a moment of pride for all of us. J&K Police will give its best to serve people of J&K and is committed to wipe out issues impeding smooth growth of the society,” he said.
On war against drugs the IGP added that police has been working with specific focus on drugs and those involved in this trade have been arrested and notorious ones’ have been slapped with PIT NDPS. (KNS)