LG Manoj Sinha Hands Over Job Appointment to Reasi Terror Attack Victim’s Sister

Job Appointment

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today handed over the appointment letter, on compassionate ground, to Renu Sharma, sister of Arjun Sharma, who was killed in Reasi Terror attack.

Arjun Sharma, a resident of Reasi, was the conductor of the bus carrying pilgrims which was attacked by the terrorists on June 09,2024.

The Lieutenant Governor assured all possible assistance and support from the J&K Administration to the family of the martyred civilian.

Mohd Sharief Sartaj Disassociates from APHC, Affirms Allegiance to India

DISASSACIATES

Mohd Sharief Sartaj, Chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir Freedom Movement, has publicly declared that his organization has no ties with the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) or any other separatist group.

Sartaj emphasized that he and his organization strongly oppose the ideology of APHC, asserting that it has failed to address the aspirations and grievances of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also warned against any unauthorized use of his name or organization in association with APHC, its factions, or related entities, stating that such actions would lead to legal consequences.

Declaring his allegiance to the Indian Constitution, Sartaj described himself as a committed citizen of India dedicated to upholding national integrity. He clarified that his organization does not affiliate with any group that works against Indian interests.

Furthermore, Sartaj announced the official disbandment of his organization, citing its un-operational status for the past decade.(KNS) 

7-Year-Old Girl Anchal Kumari Injured in Kathua Encounter; Forces Battle Militants

Ashok Kumar VDG

 A 7-year-old girl suffered minor injuries in exchange of fire between militants and security forces in Kathua district on Sunday, officials said.They said the girl Anchal Kumari (7), daughter of Nago of Bihar at present W.NO. 11, Hiranagar near Radha Swami Ashram got minor injury and was shifted to nearby hospital.

The exchange of fire ensued after a joint team of Police, Army and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation amid specific inputs about presence of terrorists in Hiranagar.As the joint team of forces encircled the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired upon the forces, which was retaliated by the joint team of security forces.

A senior police officer also confirmed to GNS about exchange of firing between terrorists and security forces.As per the sources there is intelligence inputs about presence of three to five militants in the area. More details awaited.

Patnitop Set for a Grand Makeover! J&K Govt Unveils Massive Tourism Boost with New Projects

Patnitop

Patnitop, one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most scenic tourist destinations, is set to undergo a massive transformation as the government rolls out key initiatives to boost its infrastructure and tourism potential. The Jammu and Kashmir government, in response to queries in the Legislative Assembly, outlined comprehensive plans aimed at enhancing facilities, improving accessibility, and promoting eco-friendly tourism in the region.

Major Development Plans Underway

The government revealed that the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) was established in 1992 under Section 4 of the Jammu & Kashmir Development Act, 1970, to develop Patnitop as a leading tourist destination. Currently, 72 villages across two districts fall under the PDA’s jurisdiction, with a well-structured Master Plan already prepared and notified under SRO 117. This plan categorizes areas into zones for agriculture, commercial use, construction, and no-construction zones to ensure sustainable development.

Furthermore, a new master plan for 14 additional villages is under active consideration, emphasizing long-term tourism expansion and environmental conservation.

Infrastructure Upgrades to Enhance Tourist Experience

The J&K government has announced several infrastructural improvements aimed at making Patnitop more accessible and visitor-friendly. These include:

  • Road widening projects within Patnitop and at major nearby sites like the Kasalghoom Naag Temple.
  • Installation of LED street lights to enhance safety and aesthetics.
  • Setting up of water ATMs, washrooms, and viewing points to improve convenience for tourists.
  • A musical fountain in Patnitop, adding a new attraction to the destination.

Mantalai International Yoga Center & Adventure Tourism

One of the key highlights of the development plan is the completion of the Mantalai International Yoga Center, a world-class facility designed to attract wellness tourism. The project, part of the Swadesh Darshan scheme, was sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism with an investment of ₹92 crore and executed by the National Projects Construction Corporation (NPCC). It was completed at a cost of ₹89.59 crore.

Additionally, the government has prioritized adventure tourism, with initiatives including:

  • Development of trekking routes and adventure sports facilities.
  • Promotion of eco-tourism with bamboo huts in Sanasar.
  • Establishment of a 9-hole golf course in Sanasar to attract golf enthusiasts.

Patnitop Ropeway – A Major Tourist Attraction

The Patnitop ropeway, which has already become a significant draw for visitors, continues to receive attention for further enhancement. It offers a breathtaking aerial view of the lush green landscapes and snow-capped peaks, adding to Patnitop’s charm as a must-visit destination.

Government’s Vision for Tourism Growth

The government has reinforced its commitment to transforming Patnitop, Sudhmahadev, Gouri Kund, Mantalai, Latti, Ladha, Nathatop, and Sanasar into premier tourist hubs. The integrated development of Mantalai and Sudhmahadev under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) is already in progress, ensuring a holistic approach to tourism development.

With these large-scale initiatives, Patnitop is on its way to becoming a top-tier tourist destination, offering visitors a blend of adventure, wellness, and natural beauty. The J&K government’s continued investment in infrastructure and eco-friendly tourism will not only boost local businesses but also create employment opportunities for the region’s residents.


Conclusion

The strategic development plans outlined by the Jammu and Kashmir government mark a new chapter in Patnitop’s tourism growth. With world-class infrastructure, adventure tourism, and sustainable practices, the region is set to witness a tourism boom in the coming years. As these projects unfold, travelers can look forward to an even more enriching and enjoyable experience at this breathtaking hill station.

71-Year-Old Abdul Karim Found Dead with Gunshot in Reasi’s Tanda Area

Dead body

A 71 Year-old man was found in suspicious circumstances with a gunshot in Tanda area of Reasi district on Monday.

Officials said that a man identified as Abdul Karim(71) son of Din Mohd resident of Tanda Reasi was found dead with a gunshot wound.A 12-bore gun was also found near the deceased at the time of incident, they said.

Meanwhile, police have registered a case in this regard and investigation has been taken up.(GNS)

J&K Government Constructs 135925 Houses Under PMAY-G in Two Years

J&K Assembly Passes Resolution

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday said that 135,925 houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Grameen Awaas Yojana (PMAY-G) in the last two years.

In response to a question by MLA Arjun Gupta, the minister incharge for the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, said that since the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 and AwaasPlus database have been completely saturated, there is no separate target for the 2024-25 financial year.

However, the remaining spillover target of 140,021 houses from previous phases will be completed in the current financial year, he said.

He said that 109,412 houses were built in Jammu Division, while 26,513 houses were constructed in Kashmir Division—(KNO)

Bodies of Teenager and Two Relatives Recovered in Kathua’s Malhar After Three-Day Search

People protesting in Billawar against the killings on Saturday.

Bodies of a teenager and his two relatives were recovered near a waterfall in the higher reaches of Malhar in Kathua district today, three days after they were reported missing during a marriage function at their home.

The bodies of Varun Singh (15) of Dehota, his uncle Yogesh Singh (32) and maternal uncle Darshan Singh (40) were sighted in Ishu Nallah in Malhar area by drones during a joint search operation by police and the Army late this afternoon, the officials said.Police officials said investigations are on and it would be premature to give reasons behind the killings.


The bodies were later retrieved from the scene after a hectic effort as the area was steep, the officials said, adding preliminary investigation ruled out terror angle as there were no visible marks of injury on the bodies. The exact cause of their death would be known only after a postmortem, they said.
The officials said Darshan’s brother Brijesh was getting married and the trio had left in advance for the bride’s home at Lohai Malhar in the Billawar Tehsil at around 5.30 pm on the fateful day.
However, Darshan made the last call to his home around 8.30 pm, informing them that they had lost their way
As they failed to return home, a search operation by police and the Army was launched to trace them as the area witnessed several terror incidents, including an attack on an Army vehicle that left five soldiers dead, last year.
Meanwhile, people held massive protests in Billawar today against the killings. They raised slogans against the police administration.
There was strong resentment among the people against the killings.
BJP legislator Satesh Sharma had raised the issue in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Friday.
On February 16, bodies of two villagers — Shamsher (37) and Roshan (45) — were found at village Kohag in Billawar and their postmortem revealed they were strangled to death.

J&K MLAs Question Land Allotment to Sri Lankan Cricketer in Jammu & Kashmir

Land Allotment to Sri Lankan Cricketer

Members of the Legislative Assembly on Saturday questioned the “allotment” of land to a Sri Lankan cricketer in Jammu & Kashmir.

During the Question Hour, CPI(M) MLA Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami said that a Sri Lankan cricketer has been allotted land in Kathua.

“How this allotment has been made?” he asked. Tarigami, however, didn’t disclose the name of the cricketer to whom the land has been allotted.

Congress MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir also asked the government how a non- Indian cricketer has been allotted land in J&K.“This is a serious question and needs to be looked into,” he said.

Responding to concerns of MLAs, minister for Agriculture Production Department Javaid Ahmad Dar said that the matter needs to be looked into.

“This matter pertains to the Revenue department,” he said—(KNO)

J&K Budget Praised by Congress MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir for Development & Welfare Focus

J&K Budget Praised by Congress MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir for Development & Welfare Focus

Jammu and Kashmir Congress MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir praised the J-K budget and said it is based on “overall development and welfare.” Mir added that there could not have been a better budget at present.

“This is a positive Budget which is focused on overall development and welfare. In the current situation, there could not have been a better Budget than this”, Ghulam Ahmad Mir said while speaking to the reporters on Friday.

Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Oman Abdullah presented the state budget in the assembly on Friday and emphasised that the region is on the path of lasting peace.

It is the first budget to be presented by the elected government in the last seven years. He mentioned that the state’s GST compliance has increased and expressed commitment to aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Abdullah highlighted that the budget focused on empowering youth and women, addressing regional disparities, and striving for the restoration of statehood.

The budget includes an allocation of Rs 815 crores for agriculture, which is expected to generate 2.88 lakh jobs. The state will promote a two-crop pattern and focus on expanding horticulture. The government also plans to boost wool processing and promote the leather tanning industry, which is expected to help the local economy.

Abdullah emphasized the state’s ongoing journey towards peace, noting that Jammu and Kashmir are now on the path of lasting peace after decades of unrest.

Tourism is another major focus, with the government projecting a volume of 2.36 crore tourists in 2024. Events like the Kashmir Marathon, which hosted 1,800 global participants, and the growing popularity of places like Shiv Khori and Dudh Pathri led to the inflow of tourists in the state.

The budget has provisioned Rs 390.20 crore for tourism development, with plans to increase homestays, promote water sports, and develop Sonmarg as a winter sports destination. Jammu will see a new water park in Sidhra, and Basholi will be developed as an adventure destination.

The JK CM stressed the importance of transparency in welfare measures and stated that the government is focused on empowering sectors like agriculture, tourism, and local industries. (ANI)

Rainfall Brings Relief to Udhampur’s Strawberry Farmers

Strawberry

Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir – After months of anxiety caused by a prolonged dry spell, strawberry farmers in Udhampur district are breathing a sigh of relief following recent rainfall. The much-needed showers, which arrived three to four days ago, have revitalized fields that were on the brink of ruin, offering a lifeline to cultivators who had lost significant portions of their crops due to water scarcity. With government subsidies in place and the promise of more rain on the horizon, farmers are now optimistic about salvaging their yields and securing their livelihoods.

Rashpal Singh, a local farmer, shared the toll the dry spell had taken on his strawberry fields. “The dry spells destroyed 400-500 of my strawberry crops this year. Wheat cultivation was also affected,” he said. However, the recent rains have shifted his outlook. “We got huge relief due to the rains 3 to 4 days ago. Now there is hope, and at least 70 percent yield can be expected.” Singh also acknowledged the timely support from the government, which provides subsidies of Rs 13,000 per kanal (a local land unit), with an additional Rs 26,000 for two kanals, helping farmers offset the high costs of cultivation.

Brij Vallav Gupta, Chief Horticulture Officer of Udhampur, confirmed that the district administration has disbursed subsidies covering five hectares of strawberry farmland. “We give Rs 13,000 per kanal, while farmers invest Rs 26,000 per kanal. Due to ample rainfall, all crops, especially strawberries, will thrive,” he said. Gupta highlighted the critical role of water in strawberry farming, noting that the crop demands consistent irrigation at every stage. “Farmers had assured irrigation, but those sources were getting depleted. The rainfall has revived them,” he added. Last year’s rains in September had offered similar respite after a four-and-a-half-month dry spell, and this year’s downpour promises a similar turnaround.

The economic stakes are high for Udhampur’s strawberry cultivators, who can earn between Rs 60,000 and Rs 70,000 per kanal when conditions are favorable. Gupta expressed optimism about the weather ahead, stating, “There are chances of rainfall next week as well,” which could further bolster crop health and yields. The revival of water sources has been a game-changer, particularly for a crop as water-intensive as strawberries.

For farmers like Sanjeev Kumar from Debrah village, the rains have averted disaster. “The crops would have been destroyed if it had not rained,” he said, echoing the sentiments of many in the region who had watched helplessly as their fields dried out over the past months. The prolonged dry spell, lasting four and a half months, had left farmers grappling with withering crops and dwindling hopes. Now, the sight of rejuvenated fields has sparked a renewed sense of possibility.

The recent rainfall marks a turning point for Udhampur’s agricultural community, which had been teetering on the edge due to unpredictable weather patterns. With government support and nature’s timely intervention, strawberry farmers are poised to recover from their losses and look forward to a fruitful harvest. As the region braces for more rain, the resilience of these cultivators shines through, underscoring their dependence on—and harmony with—the rhythms of the land.”