Your Window To The Kashmir
Army on Thursday said that heavy exchange of fire was underway after terrorist movement was detected in Khari Karmara area along LoC of Poonch district.
In a post on X, the army’s White Knight Corps wrote, “Terrorist movement detected in Poonch sector along the Line of control.Alert troops opened fire leading to a heavy exchange of fire.
Operations are underway.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today visited the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Pavilion at the Outbound Travel Mart OTM 2025, Asia’s largest travel trade show, being held at the Jio World Convention Centre here.
The event, which runs from January 30 to February 1, has brought together exhibitors and buyers from across the globe, providing a platform for destinations to showcase their unique offerings.
This year, Jammu and Kashmir has made a strong impression with the participation of 120 tourism trade and travel operators, highlighting the region’s unparalleled tourism potential. From its breathtaking landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, the pavilion showcased why Jammu and Kashmir is a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.
During his visit, the Chief Minister interacted with stakeholders, including travel operators, artisans and tourism officials and inquired about the arrangements in place for their participation. He also conducted a detailed inspection of the pavilion, appreciating the efforts to present Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse offerings creatively.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to tourism promotion, stating that Tourism is a top priority for his government and are dedicated to positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a global tourism hotspot. “Our participation in events like OTM is a step toward achieving this vision”, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said.
He directed the Tourism Department to ensure maximum outreach by actively engaging in major travel marts across the country and internationally.
The Chief Minister reiterated that his government is commited to supporting the tourism industry and ensuring that Jammu and Kashmir continues to shine on the global stage.
During his visit, chief minister was accompanied by Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Director Tourism Kashmir and MD JKTDC.
On the occasion, the stakeholders expressed optimism about forging new collaborations and attracting more visitors to Jammu and Kashmir.
At a recent speech at the Heritage Foundation in Washington DC, former UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman warned that Britain could face a future under Muslim fundamentalism, potentially resembling the situation in Iran. Echoing a controversial comment made by US Vice President JD Vance last year, Braverman suggested the UK could become the first Islamist nation with nuclear weapons. “Vice President JD Vance, at the National Conservative Conference, where I also spoke last summer, mentioned that the UK could be the first Islamist country with nuclear capabilities. I don’t believe he was entirely joking,” she stated. “What if Islamic fundamentalism takes over in the UK, replacing our legal system with Sharia law, and placing our nuclear arsenal in the hands of a regime similar to Iran’s?” she added.
Braverman also warned that mass migration poses a significant threat to Western civilization. She expressed concern about the changing demographics of the UK, suggesting it could eventually challenge the US strategically. “Could it be that, in 20 years, the UK — rather than China or Russia — becomes the greatest strategic threat to the US, as a result of weak leadership and a fractured relationship?” she asked.
In her remarks, Braverman praised the victory of Donald Trump in the US elections, seeing it as a win for freedom, and expressed hope for a resurgence of freedom in the Western world. “Thankfully, the tide is turning toward freedom. If the revival fails in the US, it will be a loss for all of us, and the consequences will be irreversible,” she said. “But if the US prevails, we will all benefit. The US needs its allies,” she emphasized.
Braverman also criticized the far-left’s embrace of multiculturalism, calling it a flawed ideology. “The idea that multiculturalism is purely beneficial is falling apart quickly, along with many other far-left ideals. Progressive thinking is losing traction — among the young, the old, blue-collar, and white-collar workers alike,” she stated.
Her comments echoed those made by JD Vance, who, in the lead-up to the US Presidential election, raised concerns about the UK’s future under a left-wing government. Speaking at the National Conservatism Conference, Vance speculated that the UK might become the first Islamist country to acquire nuclear weapons, given the influence of the Labour Party. “We were discussing nuclear proliferation, and I wondered aloud which country might be the first truly Islamist state with nuclear weapons. We thought maybe Iran, or Pakistan, but ultimately concluded it could be the UK, especially with Labour in power,” Vance remarked.
The exchange of views highlights growing anxieties in both the UK and the US over the impact of immigration, the future of Western democracies, and the ideological battle between progressive and conservative values.
A 15-year-old girl was shot dead by her father and maternal uncle over TikTok videos in an alleged honour killing in Pakistan’s Quetta, ARY News reported.
The father of the 15-year-old Hira was enraged over his daughter’s social media presence on TikTok and ordered her to stop making videos. However, when the daughter refused to obey, he hatched a plan with the girl’s maternal uncle to kill his daughter.
The police officials stated that Anwarul-Haq had shifted to America with his wife and children several years ago. He came to Pakistan with her daughter Hira on January 15 while his wife and two other daughters remained in the US.
The police confirmed that the murder was premeditated, as Anwarul-Haq hatched the plot with Tayyab Ali.
The police have arrested both the accused who confessed the killing, ARY News reported.
The case has been transferred to the Serious Crime Investigation Wing for further inquiry.
Meanwhile, TikTok remains unavailable on Apple and Google app stores in the United States as US President Donald Trump vouched to approve the app on the condition that the US will own 50 per cent of it.
Trump stated, “We need to save TikTok because we have to save a lot of jobs. We don’t want to give our business to China… I agreed to approve TikTok on the condition that the USA will own 50 per cent of TikTok…”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk hailed US President-Elect Donald Trump’s decision to not ban Chinese social media app TikTok.
Musk believed TikTok ban went against freedom of speech.
He, however, flagged off an imbalance, stating that though TikTok is allowed to operate in the US, X is banned in China.
In a post on X, he said, “I have been against a TikTok ban for a long time, because it goes against freedom of speech. That said, the current situation where TikTok is allowed to operate in America, but X is not allowed to operate in China is unbalanced. Something needs to change.”
Earlier on April 19, Musk had opposed the ban on TikTok, even though he said the ban would have benefitted X.
“In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the X platform. Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for.” (ANI)
Member of Parliament Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi called on Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in Delhi on Wednesday, sources said. The duo discussed Waqf Amendment Bill and several other issues during the meeting.
Sources told that it was a courtesy call as Aga Ruhullah is in the capital for the upcoming Budget session. Mirwaiz is also in Delhi after he led a delegation of Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU) to meet Jagdambika Pal, chairman Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on Waqf Amendment Bill last week.
Sources added that several issues, including the contentious Waqf Amendment Bill issue came up for discussion during Aga Ruhullah’s meeting Mirwaiz today. The meeting assumes significance amid the ongoing row between the opposition and the ruling BJP over the Waqf Amendment Bill.
On Friday, the MMU delegation led by Mirwaiz presented a detailed memorandum to the JPC about its stand on the proposed amendments.
The meeting marked the first engagement of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq with MPs after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh – in August 2019.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024, was referred to the Joint Committee of Parliament for examination following objections by the Opposition over its clauses.
The bill faces opposition due to changes in the composition of the Central Waqf Council and Waqf Boards, restrictions on the power of Waqf boards, and the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the district collector’s office Notably, the JPC on Monday voted in favour of 14 alterations to the draft version of the Waqf Amendment Bill, which includes distinguishing between the mandatory two non-Muslim members – as specified in the original draft of the bill – and nominated ex-officio members (Muslim or non-Muslim).
These changes, and the 12 others, were proposed by members from the ruling BJP, including Lok Sabha MPs Nishikant Dubey, Tejasvi Surya and Aparajita Sarangi. The JPC has 16 MPs from the BJP or allied parties and only 10 from the opposition.
The opposition’s proposals were rejected by a 10:16 vote after committee members voted on party lines. The JPC today adopted the draft report after a 16-10 majority vote. The report will be presented to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla tomorrow—(KNO)
At least 30 people were killed and 60 were injured in the pre-dawn stampede on Wednesday at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj here, a top police officer said.
Twenty-five bodies have been identified and the rest are yet to be identified, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishnathe, said in a press conference.
“A total of 30 people have died unfortunately in the stampede that took place at the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj. Twenty-five bodies have been identified and rest five are yet to be identified,” he said.Among the deceased, four are from Karnataka, one from Assam and one from Gujarat, the DIG said.
Further, he said that 36 people were being treated at a local medical college.“36 people are currently being treated at the local medical college. Keeping in mind the convenience of the devotees, the CM Yogi Adityanath has requested all Mahamadaleshwar, saints and Akharas to take their holy dips with some delay. The Amrit Snan of the Akharas has been concluded safely…” he further added.
Giving details of the incident, the DIG said that the stampede occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning when a huge crowd on the Akhara Marg broke the barricade to take a holy dip.
“Before Brahma Muhurta, between 1 am to 2 am, a huge crowd gathered on the Akhara Marg. Due to this crowd, the barricades on the other side broke and the crowd ran over the devotees waiting to take a holy dip on the other side. About 90 people were taken to the hospital through ambulances but unfortunately, 30 devotees have died…” he said.
Meanwhile, to monitor the situation of Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has postponed his visit to Delhi for the election campaign tomorrow.
Earlier,Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the President of Parmarth Niketan Ashram expressed condolences over the stampede and called it an ‘unfortunate incident’ and stressed the importance of following the instructions of the administration for the safety.
In a conversation with ANI, Saraswati said, “Whatever happened was very unfortunate. The administration’s orders and messages should have been followed. People are coming in large numbers and taking a holy dip. I express my condolences to those who lost their lives.” (ANI)
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today felicitated the recipients of ‘Maharaja Hari Singh Peace & Harmony Award’, organised by Gulistan News Network at Jammu.
The Lieutenant Governor paid tributes to Pandit Prem Nath Dogra, Pandit Girdhari Lal Dogra and Shri Devender Singh Rana, who were honoured with the award posthumously for their leadership qualities and tenacity and dedicating the life for the welfare of people.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor paid homage to Maharaja Hari Singh and spoke on the revolutionary reforms introduced by him that had made a profound impact on the society and the development of J&K.
“Maharaja Hari Singh Ji was a key architect of modern Jammu Kashmir. He also played a major role in shaping its destiny during a critical period in history and ensured the dream of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ becomes a reality,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor observed that Maharaja Hari Singh Ji was unflinching in his concern for the poor and the disadvantaged and he championed the cause of women empowerment, education, healthcare and upliftment of the marginalised. His entire life was a great saga of courage and conviction for betterment of society.
The Lieutenant Governor further highlighted that it is the responsibility of people at the helm of affairs to ensure that different segments and sections have a stake in Viksit Bharat.
He said the prestigious Maharaja Hari Singh Awards are the recognition of the work done for promoting peace, inclusive development, achievement in different sectors and a feeling of oneness between communities.
“As India moves forward on the path of rapid economic growth, your work in literature, social services, sports, education and business strengthens the fabric of our society. It is your duty to ensure that weaker sections of society and empowerment of women are given top priority,” the Lieutenant Governor told the Awardees.
Speaking on India’s emergence as an economic super power, the Lieutenant Governor said the progress we achieved in the last 10 year, have assured that the nation will certainly accomplish the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
He emphasised that the government alone cannot achieve its goals and the citizens need to work together.
“It is true that despite all the differences, people share a common origin and a common destiny. I urge the people from all sections of the society to lead India into a developed nation and become the active partners in this development journey,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said the J&K Government, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has fulfilled the long pending demand of declaring holiday on the birthday of Maharaja Hari Singh ji.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor was conferred with ‘Maharaja Hari Singh Award in Reforms and Planning’.
Sh Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament; Sh Sham Lal Chaudhary, former Minister; Sh Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; members of Gulistan News Network; senior officials and prominent citizens from different walks of life were present.
Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a unique opportunity to create a historic legacy by resolving the Kashmir issue and establishing long-term peace in the region. Speaking on Monday, Farooq emphasized that peace cannot be achieved through a “muscular policy” and reaffirmed that the Hurriyat is prepared for “meaningful and transparent engagement” as the only viable path forward. He highlighted that the Hurriyat’s past engagements with the central government during the tenures of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh laid a foundation for broader dialogue, which should now be continued.
Currently in Delhi, Mirwaiz’s visit has raised speculation regarding potential engagement with the Centre. Last week, he and other religious leaders from the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) met with the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to express their concerns about the Waqf Amendment Bill. Mirwaiz emphasized the Hurriyat’s willingness to engage in dialogue, stating, “We chose to come here and meet with the JPC instead of taking to the streets. Our openness to talk with MPs reflects our readiness for broader engagement.”
Mirwaiz reiterated that the Hurriyat has always been committed to a transparent and meaningful dialogue to resolve the Kashmir issue. He expressed hope that PM Modi would heed these calls and work towards lasting peace in the subcontinent by addressing Kashmir’s concerns. He also reminded Modi of the previous endorsement of Vajpayee’s vision of “Insaniyat, Jamooriyat, and Kashmiriyat” for Jammu and Kashmir, urging him to take practical steps to demonstrate change on the ground for the alienated population of the region.
During the past week, Mirwaiz met influential figures such as Maulana Mehmood Madani, president of Jamiat e Ulama-i-Hind, and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi, both of whom have been involved in Kashmir’s political discourse. In the coming days, he is expected to meet more key individuals and visit religious seminaries, including Darul Uloom Deoband and Nadwat ul Uloom.
Reflecting on past efforts, Mirwaiz recalled how the Hurriyat had engaged in dialogue when it was unpopular and even labeled as “Advani Hurriyat.” Despite facing challenges, he reaffirmed that dialogue remains the only way forward and that the Hurriyat has been steadfast in its commitment to peace talks since its inception.
As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, new innovations reshape how we interact with the world. Among these groundbreaking advancements is “Deepseek,” a cutting-edge concept that has stirred global interest. But what is Deepseek, and how does it stand to impact our lives? This article delves into the essence of Deepseek and examines its broader implications on the world.
Deepseek is an advanced information retrieval and data analysis technology that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to extract precise, actionable insights from vast data pools. Unlike traditional search engines that rely on simple keyword matching, Deepseek uses deep learning algorithms to comprehend context, nuance, and patterns within data. By analysing unstructured and structured data alike, it delivers results that are both relevant and insightful.
At its core, Deepseek represents a leap in AI’s ability to process and interpret human communication, ranging from text and images to audio and video. It is designed to be a tool not just for finding information, but for uncovering deeper connections, trends, and predictions.
Deepseek’s applications are far-reaching, making it a transformative force across industries:
In the medical field, Deepseek can assist doctors by analysing patient records, medical research, and global health trends. This capability enables more accurate diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and early identification of potential pandemics.
Businesses can use Deepseek to understand market trends, consumer behaviour, and financial risks. It helps identify opportunities and threats by sifting through data from various sources, including social media, economic reports, and industry news.
Deepseek can revolutionise education by providing personalised learning paths for students. By analysing their performance and learning styles, it creates tailored curricula that enhance understanding and retention.
Governments and organisations can utilise Deepseek to monitor potential security threats, detect cyberattacks, and analyse geopolitical developments. Its ability to process multilingual and multimedia data is especially valuable for global surveillance.
By analysing ecological data, Deepseek aids in tackling climate change and environmental degradation. It can track deforestation, monitor endangered species, and optimise resource use to promote sustainability.
While Deepseek promises significant advancements, its widespread adoption raises questions about ethics, privacy, and societal impact.
Deepseek’s ability to deliver actionable insights can revolutionise decision-making processes across fields. Governments, businesses, and individuals will benefit from improved forecasting and strategic planning.
Deepseek democratises access to information by breaking down barriers such as language and data silos. This accessibility empowers underserved communities and fosters global collaboration.
As with any AI technology, Deepseek poses ethical dilemmas. The potential misuse of data, biased algorithms, and lack of transparency in its decision-making processes could lead to societal harm if not properly managed.
Deepseek’s ability to analyse massive datasets, including personal information, raises significant privacy concerns. Safeguards and regulations must be established to ensure that user data is protected.
Automation powered by Deepseek may lead to job displacement in certain sectors. While it creates new opportunities in AI and data analysis, there is a need for reskilling initiatives to prepare the workforce for this transition.
The growing reliance on Deepseek for decision-making could reduce human autonomy. Overdependence on AI systems risks undermining critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Deepseek is undoubtedly a double-edged sword. Its potential to drive innovation and solve global challenges is immense, but its implications demand careful consideration. As this technology evolves, collaboration between governments, tech companies, and civil society is essential to establish ethical guidelines and frameworks.
The future of Deepseek hinges on our ability to balance its benefits with its risks. By fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, we can harness the power of Deepseek to create a world that is not only smarter but also more equitable and sustainable.
Deepseek is more than just a technological innovation; it is a paradigm shift in how we process and utilise information. Its implications are vast and varied, touching nearly every aspect of human life. As we stand at the forefront of this new era, the choices we make today will shape the role of Deepseek in our collective future. By embracing its potential while addressing its challenges, we can unlock a new age of discovery and progress for humanity.
Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), claiming that both parties are against the Indian Constitution and aim to dismantle it.
Gandhi was addressing a public gathering at the birthplace of Dr BR Ambedkar in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, on Monday, where he also underlined that the Indian Constitution is not just a book but embodies thousands of years of Indian thought.
“A battle of ideology is going on in India. On one hand, the Congress party which believes in the Constitution and is fighted for it. While on the other end, RSS and BJP who are against the Indian Constitution, constitution of BR Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi, they weaken it and they want to end it. The Indian Constitution is not just a book but thousands of years old thinking of India. There is a voice and thinking of great personalities of India in this constitution,” the Congress leader said.
The Leader of Opposition also took a jibe at RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, alleging that Bhagwat does not believe in India’s freedom on August 15, 1947, and considers that real freedom was achieved only after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power.
“A few days ago RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat said that India did not get freedom on August 15, 1947, it was a fake freedom. Real freedom was achieved after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power. This is a direct attack on the constitution. They (BJP) tried to repeal the constitution before the Lok Sabha election 2024. They had said if they won 400 seats then they would abolish the constitution and change it…Remember one thing, the day the constitution is abolished, there will be nothing left in this country for the poor, dalits, Adivasis, OBCs. This is their goal,” he added.
“They give all the contracts to two-three billionaires. All the wealth of India is being served to people like Adani and Ambani. Where is it written in the Constitution that the wealth of India should be handed over to Adani?…It is written in the constitution that all citizens of India are equal and every Indian should have a chance to dream of creating a future. Today India has the highest unemployment rate for 50 years. Billionaire thousands of crores of rupees. They spend it on the marriage of children (referring to Ambani),” Rahul Gandhi said.
He further highlighted that common people, when wanting to marry off their children, have to take loans because they do not have money, and this is due to the lack of employment opportunities.
“Don’t forget that the more Adani and Ambani grow, the more money these billionaires get, the fewer jobs your children will get. Demonetisation and GST are weapons to eliminate India’s poor population. Common people pay the same amount of GST as Adani Ambani pays… Narendra Modi waived off Rs 16 lakh crore of billionaires’ loans. But were the debts of farmers, labourers, and students waived off? You pay GST and Adani and Ambani sell Chinese goods in India. People in China get employment and those jobs are stolen from your children’s hands..,” he further said.
The Congress leader also emphasised that billionaires have destroyed the country’s employment system.
“Who is the owner of the privatisation of the education and health system? The Indian education system is a system of stamps, a system of certification. Crores of people think that after such certifications, after paying lakhs of rupees to the billionaires, their children will get employment. This is a blatant lie. Your children cannot get employment in this country, no matter what they do… The billionaires have destroyed the employment system of the country… If students from IIT or IIM are not getting employment, how will you get it,” he asked.
Prominent Congress leaders across the nation were gathered here in Mhow and participated in Congress’ massive ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan’ rally at the birthplace of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar in Indore’s Mhow.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also participated in the rally and addressed the gathering on the occasion.
Additionally, Congress National chief Kharge and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi visited Bhim Janmabhoomi Smarak and offered floral tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar on the occasion. (ANI)