The ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir’ has recently been designated as an ‘unlawful association’ under the anti-terror legislation, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, as disclosed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Headed by Masarat Alam, the interim chairman of the hardline faction within the All party Hurriyat Conference, formerly led by separatist figure Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the organization has been implicated in activities that are both anti-national and secessionist within the region of Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Shah conveyed his message through a post on X, asserting that the organization and its members actively support terrorist activities and incite efforts to establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasizing the government’s resolute stance, Minister Shah reiterated that those acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of India will face the full force of the law, echoing the clear message of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. The Home Ministry, in its notification, highlighted the organization’s reputation for disseminating “anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.” Furthermore, it outlined that the leaders of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir have been found raising funds from various sources, including Pakistan and its affiliated entities, to support illicit activities. The notification also underscored the engagement of the organization’s members in secessionist endeavors, coupled with a blatant disregard for the constitutional authority of the country. Particularly, the notification pointed out the involvement of Masarat Alam, the chairman, in activities deemed detrimental to the unity, integrity, security, and communal harmony of the nation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to Rajouri on Wednesday, expressed concern for the injured civilians and reassured that justice would be served.”I came to see the injured civilians, and though the unfortunate incident has occurred, justice will be done,” Singh conveyed while engaging with the relatives of those allegedly tortured by security forces in Poonch district.The Defence Minister reiterated his commitment to ensuring justice as he addressed the family members of the injured civilians. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized the need for a fair resolution.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Singh’s comments coincided with a comprehensive inquiry initiated by the Indian Army, under the Ministry of Defence, into a series of events, including a terrorist attack on army vehicles near Bufliyaz in the Dehra Ki Gali forests and the subsequent reported deaths of three locals allegedly detained for questioning by the army.
Earlier, Singh arrived in Rajouri to assess the security situation, expressing the significance of every soldier and their integral role in the national family. He conveyed his well-wishes for the swift recovery of the injured soldiers and affirmed the government’s commitment to taking all necessary measures for their well-being.
“I want to assure you that, considering the seriousness of all the soldiers who have been injured, every effort is being made to take all necessary steps. No stone is being left unturned for their well-being. Every soldier is crucial to us, akin to a member of the family, and we cannot tolerate any disrespect towards our soldiers and countrymen,” stated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Rajouri.
Srinagar, Dec 26 (KNS): In anticipation of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s upcoming assessment of the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir on December 27, former Law Minister Syed Basharat Bukhari expressed optimism on Tuesday, stating, “We hope that justice will be served through this visit.”
Bukhari, exhibiting unwavering trust, conveyed his expectations that the families of the three civilians who lost their lives in mysterious circumstances in Poonch would find solace and justice. In a message directed at Rajnath Singh on Twitter, he stated, “Mr. Rajnath Ji, HDM @DefenceMinIndia, you are visiting J&K to assess the situation after the Poonch Encounter. We strongly believe that you will not disappoint the families affected by the tragic events. May justice prevail. Stay blessed.”
As reported earlier by KNS, the Defence Minister is set to conduct a security review meeting at Jammu Raj Bhawan, bringing together key figures from the Army, intelligence agencies, Police, BSF, CRPF, etc. Rajnath Singh plans to interact with the local community in the area where three civilians reportedly lost their lives last week, allegedly while in the custody of the Army. (KNS)
Rafi Ahmad Mir extends a warm welcome to Daisy Raina in the party fold
Daisy Raina, a prominent social and political activist from the minority community and currently serving as a Sarpanch in Pulwama, joined the Apni Party during a special event held at the party headquarters in Srinagar on Thursday.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel According to a press note, Rafi Ahmad Mir, the party’s senior leader and general secretary, extended a heartfelt welcome to Ms. Raina. He assured her that the Apni Party would serve as a reliable platform for advancing the interests of her community and fostering overall development in her locality. Besides, Rafi Ahmad Mir, the party’s provincial president Mohammad Ashraf Mir, state secretary and spokesperson Muntazir Mohiuddin, provincial secretary and DDC Aripal Tral, as well as the district youth president and party in-charge for Srinagar’s Khanyar constituency Mohasin Zaffar Shah, were also present on the occasion.(KNS)
On Monday, BJP leader Ashok Koul expressed strong condemnation for the tragic killing of a retired police officer in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. He assured the public that those responsible for targeted killings in the valley would be swiftly brought to justice. During a press interaction following a party event, Koul conveyed his confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s ability to secure over 50 seats in Jammu and Kashmir during the upcoming Assembly polls in the Union Territory.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Emphasizing the commitment to address the issue of targeted killings, Koul stated, “Our administration will root out those responsible for such incidents and ensure they face justice. We strongly condemn these targeted killings, and the perpetuators of such attacks will soon be eradicated by the administration.”
Regarding the recent tragic incident involving the killing of retired superintendent of police Mohammad Shafi Mir while he was calling for “azaan,” Koul underscored the intolerability of such acts in any religion. “The SP was killed in Baramulla while he was in a mosque calling for azaan. Such an act is condemnable and goes against the principles of any religion,” Koul asserted.
Responding to inquiries about the security situation, Koul noted that while recent attacks have targeted security personnel, individuals from various walks of life have also fallen victim to terrorism. “It’s not just the police being targeted; others have also been victims. However, there has been a recent focus on attacks against police personnel,” he added.
When questioned about the BJP’s prospects in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, Koul expressed optimism, saying, “Our focus is on hard work, and the results will follow. We are confident, based on our track record, that we will secure more than 50 seats out of the 90 in Jammu and Kashmir.”
On the matter of engaging in talks with Pakistan, Koul did not provide a direct response but highlighted the efforts made for friendly relations. He referenced former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s visit to Lahore and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unconventional journey to meet Nawaz Sharif in Kabul. Despite these efforts, Koul recalled the unfortunate incident of the Pathankot attack occurring shortly after Modi’s return from Pakistan.
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) has condemned the alleged killing of three civilians in the Poonch district while they were incustody of the army. In a statement, issued to KNS, a spokesperson said that Mohammad Showkat, Safeer Hussain and Shabir Ahmad were rounded up by armypersonnel and subjected to severe torture which resulted in their deaths.
The statement reads that the J&K administration has announced compensation for the families of deceased, but that is not enough. “There has to be a speedy investigationand punishment meted out to those responsible.” It added that leople of J&K, who have long suffered from such acts of impunity, expectaccountability to be fixed in the matter and justice done. (KNS)
Former Chief Engineer, Vice-Chairman, Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) Muhammad Yousuf Bhat, passed away on Sunday after a brief illness. He was 73.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The deceased Muhammad Yousuf Bhat originally hailed from Fateh Kadal area in Downtown, Srinagar and was currently residing at Rajbagh near Police Station.
He breathed his last on December 24, 2023 (Sunday) after fighting cancer at SKIMS, Srinagar. He is survived by wife, daughter and son. The deceased was an elder brother of trader, Muhammad Amin Bhat.
The family of the deceased informed that his congregational prayers would be held at his residence, opposite, Police Station, Rajbagh. Chahrum of the deceased will be held on Thursday December, 28, 2023 at his residence.
Bhat was known for his proactive role in executing several civil and developmental works in Srinagar and other distrcit headquarters. Among his colleagues, Bhat was known for his deep sense of humanity and helping hand which earned him many accolades.
“He, indeed left us with fond memories and an unrecoverable loss. We pray to almighty to give strength to his dear and loved ones and to get through this difficult and testing time.”(KNS)
All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has expressed pain and sorrow over the kiling of a former police officer in Baramulla on Sunday. In a statement, issued to KNS Hurriyat Conference also expressed sympathy and condolences with the bereaved family.Hurriyat Conference said that such killings are a blot on humanity and only bring disgrace to the people and place where they are committed.
1.Hurriyat Conference Leader Mirwaiz ?
“They are no solution to resolve conflicts and only cause grief and suffering.” APHC said that each day blood is spilled in J&K, yet claims of normalcy are made. “We have always believed that unless the basic issue of Kashmir is not addressed, we will keep witnessing bloodshed,” it said.(KNS)
2.Hurriyat Conference Leader Mirwaiz?
The Hurriyat Conference is a political coalition of various parties and groups in the Kashmir Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, a region disputed between India and Pakistan. The term “Hurriyat” means “liberty” or “freedom” in Urdu. The Hurriyat Conference advocates for the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir and often expresses discontent with the political status quo.
There are two factions of the Hurriyat Conference:
All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC): This faction was formed in 1993 and is led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. It generally supports a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue through dialogue and negotiations. The APHC has often called for the implementation of United Nations resolutions on Kashmir and the involvement of the people of Kashmir in the resolution process.
Hurriyat Conference (G): This faction, also known as the Geelani faction, is led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani. It has been more rigid in its approach and is often associated with a more hardline stance, including advocating for Kashmir’s accession to Pakistan.
Hurriyat Leader Mirwaiz
The Hurriyat Conference has played a significant role in the political landscape of Kashmir, particularly during times of unrest. Its leaders and members have been involved in various initiatives, negotiations, and protests related to the Kashmir issue. It’s important to note that the political situation in Kashmir is complex, and there are diverse opinions and perspectives among the people living in the region.
The Special Crime Wing (Crime Branch) in Srinagar took a significant step on Saturday by presenting a charge sheet before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Ganderbal. The charge sheet pertains to an individual who secured admission in the BUMS course using fraudulent documents.
1.Crime Branch investigating matter , What Shahid Ul Islam Revealed During Investigation
According to a statement released to Kashmir News Service (KNS) by the Crime Branch, the charge sheet for Case FIR No. 17/2023 was submitted to the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Ganderbal on December 22, 2023. The accused, identified as Shahid-ul-Islam, son of Ghulam Nabi Mir and a resident of Prang, Kangan, Ganderbal, faces charges under sections 420, 465, 468, 471, and 201 of the RPC for his involvement in offenses related to the use of fake/forged documents.
The accused allegedly utilized a counterfeit 10+2 certificate to secure admission in the BUMS course and even managed to obtain a government job to which he was not entitled. The case was initially registered at the Police Station Special Crime Wing (Crime Branch Kashmir) based on a complaint filed by Dr. Zaffar Shaheen, son of Ghulam Mohammad Teeli and a resident of Manigam, Ganderbal.
The complaint alleged that Shahid-ul-Islam had gained admission to the BUMS Course for the 2014 session at the Institute of Asian Medical Sciences, affiliated with the University of Kashmir, using a fabricated 10+2 marks certificate. Subsequently, the accused applied for a “Provisional Registration Certificate” to the Registrar, Board of Ayurvedic/Unani System of Medicine, based on the same forged certificate. This led to the initiation of an inquiry under Reg. No. ME: 01/2022 at the Special Crime Wing, Crime Branch Kashmir, Srinagar, which eventually resulted in the registration of the current case.
1.During the investigation, relevant records were obtained and seized, and statements from individuals familiar with the case were recorded. It was uncovered that the accused had presented a fake 10+2 marks certificate at the Institute of Asian Medical Sciences to secure admission in the BUMS program for the 2014 session. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that, after completing the course, the accused applied for the position of Medical Officer (AYUSH) using the degree certificate of BUMS and the fraudulent 10+2 marks certificate. The accused was selected for the role, as evidenced by order No. 08 DRHSG of 2014 dated 20.01.2014 issued by the Director Rural Health Mission, J&K. However, the individual was later terminated from government services through Govt. order No. 178 of 2022 dated 12.12.2022, issued by the Secretary Health and Medical Education Department, J&K.
Based on the facts and circumstances that emerged during the investigation, the charge sheet against the accused has been presented before the Hon’ble Court of CJM Ganderbal, where he has been remanded to judicial custody.
The Director Agriculture Kashmir, Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal today inaugurated a one day awareness cum training programme on ‘Promotion of Niche Crops in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir’ under holistic agriculture development program at Agriculture Complex Lalmandi, here.The programme was organised by an advanced research station for saffron and seed spices, SKUAST- Kashmir in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmer welfare Kashmir.
1.Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal Director Agriculture Kashmir
2. What is Agriculture
3.Director Agriculture Kashmir Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal
To Know More About Agriculture Please click HERE In his inaugural address, Director Agriculture Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal highlighted the importance of promotion of niche crops like saffron, kala zeera and mushkbudjii.Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal said that under HADP special attention has been given in this direction and many interventions are on for the promotion and development of niche crops like saffron.
Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal said that our niche crops had a vast potential in terms of economic growth and sustainability. Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal impressed upon the participants to organise more such programs in coming times so that more and more young educated farmers could be made aware of the economic potential of niche crops. The programme was attended by senior scientist Research station seed and spices Dusso Pampore Dr. Bashir Ahmad Allaie, Nodal Officer ZBNF Sheikh Imran and other stakeholders
1.Agriculture is the practice of cultivating soil, producing crops, and raising livestock for human use and consumption. It involves a variety of activities, including planting and harvesting crops, breeding and raising animals, and managing the land for optimal productivity. Agriculture is a fundamental human activity that has evolved over thousands of years, playing a crucial role in providing food, fiber, and other raw materials for human societies.
Key components of agriculture include:
Crop Cultivation: Growing plants for food, fiber, or other purposes. Major crops include grains (such as wheat, rice, and corn), fruits, vegetables, and industrial crops like cotton.
Livestock Farming: Raising animals for various products, including meat, milk, eggs, and wool. Common livestock includes cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and poultry.
Agronomy: The science and practice of soil management and crop production. This involves optimizing soil health, choosing appropriate crops, and implementing cultivation techniques for maximum yield.
Horticulture: The cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Horticulture includes practices such as gardening, orcharding, and floriculture.
Agribusiness: The business of agricultural production, encompassing everything from farming and food processing to distribution and retail.
Sustainable Agriculture: A farming approach that aims to balance the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It focuses on environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social responsibility.
Precision Agriculture: The use of technology, such as GPS, sensors, and data analytics, to optimize various aspects of farming, including resource utilization, crop management, and decision-making.
Agriculture has undergone significant changes over time, with advancements in technology, mechanization, and biotechnology playing a crucial role in increasing productivity. The development of agriculture has been a key factor in the growth of human civilizations, allowing communities to settle and thrive by producing a consistent and reliable food supply.
2.Kashmir, a region in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse climate. Agriculture in Kashmir has been a significant part of the region’s economy and culture for centuries. The unique geography and climate of Kashmir influence the types of crops grown and the agricultural practices followed.
Key features of agriculture in Kashmir include:
Climatic Conditions: Kashmir experiences four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The region’s climate varies from temperate to sub-arctic, with heavy snowfall in winter. The diverse climate allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops.
Major Crops: Rice is a staple crop in Kashmir, and paddy fields are a common sight. Other important crops include wheat, barley, maize, and fruits such as apples, cherries, apricots, and almonds. Saffron, one of the most expensive spices globally, is also grown in certain areas of Kashmir.
Horticulture: The region is renowned for its horticultural activities. Fruit orchards are widespread, and Kashmir apples are particularly famous. The Jammu and Kashmir region is one of the leading producers of apples in India.
Sericulture: Sericulture, or silk farming, is practiced in some areas of Kashmir. Mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing contribute to the production of silk.
Vegetable Cultivation: Vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, turnips, and greens are grown in the region. The fertile soils and suitable climate provide favorable conditions for vegetable farming.
Irrigation: Traditional irrigation methods, including the use of canals and water channels, have been historically employed. Additionally, modern irrigation practices are increasingly being adopted to enhance crop yields.
Challenges: Like many agricultural regions, Kashmir faces challenges such as changing weather patterns, land fragmentation, and the need for modernization. Political factors and periodic unrest in the region can also impact agricultural activities.
Tourism and Agriculture: The picturesque landscapes of Kashmir, coupled with its agricultural activities, contribute to the region’s appeal for tourism. The integration of agriculture and tourism has led to the development of agro-tourism in some areas.
Overall, agriculture in Kashmir is diverse and plays a vital role in the livelihoods of the people. The region’s agricultural practices have evolved over time, blending traditional methods with modern techniques to address the challenges and opportunities presented by its unique climate and geography.
3.The Director of Agriculture Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal provides guidance and leadership to the department’s staff and officers. They also coordinate work between different sections within the department and act as a liaison officer with other departments and the Secretariat Administration.
Here are some recent activities of the Director of Agriculture for Kashmir:
June 27, 2023: Attended a training-cum-workshop on the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY)
May 9, 2022: Visited areas of Parishad Budgam that were affected by hailstorms
September 12, 2023: Inaugurated a two-day district-level seminar on beekeeping in Srinagar
August 19, 2023: Visited the seed multiplication farm (SMF) Tapper Kreeri to assess various agricultural activities
