Kashmir - NEWS Of KASHMIR

Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi Backs Villagers Opposing Bijbehara–Pahalgam Railway Line in South Kashmir

January 26, 2026 by NOK Desk

Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Member of Parliament from the National Conference, has strongly supported villagers opposing the proposed Bijbehara–Pahalgam railway line in south Kashmir.

Addressing a public gathering at Wularhama village in Anantnag around January 25, 2026, the MP said the proposed rail project has no clear justification and is not needed at present.

Mian Altaf said there is already good road connectivity between Bijbehara and Pahalgam, and extending a railway line to the tourist town does not serve any practical purpose. He described the project as unnecessary and pointless, especially when it threatens local livelihoods.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He warned that the proposed alignment could damage fertile apple orchards, paddy fields, and agricultural land, which are the main source of income for hundreds of families in the area. According to him, the project could cause serious economic loss to farmers and disturb the agrarian character of south Kashmir.

The MP also dismissed claims circulating about the railway line, saying much of the discussion is based on rumours. He added that he has not seen any official approval, detailed plan, or strong reason for the project so far.

Assuring the villagers of his full support, Mian Altaf said he would raise the issue in Parliament and take it up directly with the Railway Ministry. He promised to oppose the project at every appropriate forum to protect the interests of local residents.

The issue has triggered growing opposition in areas such as Bijbehara and nearby villages. Locals fear that the railway line—reported to be around 77.5 kilometres in parts—could destroy farmland, apple orchards, and disrupt rural life in south Kashmir.

Similar protests were reported earlier from villages like Dirhama, where residents also raised concerns about land acquisition and lack of consultation. Some other political voices have echoed these concerns, calling for proper dialogue with locals before moving ahead with such projects.

The issue highlights the ongoing debate in Jammu and Kashmir between infrastructure development and the need to preserve agricultural land and local livelihoods.

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Mutton Price to Stay at Rs 700 per Kg in Kashmir During Ramadan, Butchers Union Assures

January 25, 2026 by NOK Desk

Dispelling fears of a price rise ahead of Ramadan, the All Kashmir Butchers Union on Saturday said that mutton will continue to be sold at the current rate across Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement issued here, the union clearly denied rumours that mutton prices would rise to Rs 750 or Rs 800 per kilogram. It assured consumers that the price will remain fixed at Rs 700 per kg throughout the holy month of Ramadan and during the Eid-ul-Fitr festival. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The union said reports of a price hike are unfounded and misleading. It also clarified that mutton and other meat prices in Jammu and Kashmir are not regulated by the Legal Metrology Department or any other government body. As a result, prices are decided through self-regulation by traders and general market forces.

The union, however, highlighted serious external challenges affecting the supply chain. It accused authorities in Punjab of imposing what it called illegal levies on livestock trucks at various checkpoints.

According to the union, taxes linked to the Madhopur cattle fair and grazing charges are unfair and increase the cost of mutton before it reaches Kashmir. Madhopur is a major transit point for trucks carrying sheep and other livestock from Punjab and other states to the Valley.

While Punjab regulates cattle fairs under the Punjab Cattle Fairs (Regulation) Act, 1967, Kashmiri traders allege that unofficial “cattle fair taxes” ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 per truck are being charged. The union has described this practice as extortion.

Earlier, the butchers’ body had approached the Jammu and Kashmir government to raise the issue diplomatically with Punjab authorities. Despite these difficulties, the union has urged consumers to buy mutton only at the officially fixed rate of Rs 700 per kg.

It is important to note that the J&K government does not have the legal power to control or cap mutton prices. In 2023, the administration revoked the J&K Mutton (Licensing and Control) Order of 1973, ending five decades of government price control. Since then, pricing has been left entirely to market forces and traders’ associations.

Kashmir consumes around 22 lakh sheep every year, producing nearly 2.1 million kilograms of mutton. About 70 per cent of this supply is imported from outside the region, making transportation costs and supply disruptions key factors in pricing.

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Kashmir / Weather

Back-to-Back Western Disturbances to Bring Rain, Snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir as Cold Slightly Eases

January 22, 2026 by NOK Desk

Back-to-back Western Disturbances are set to impact Jammu and Kashmir from Thursday, bringing widespread rain and snowfall across many areas. While the weather is expected to turn harsh again, minimum temperatures showed a slight improvement on Wednesday, offering brief relief from the intense cold.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Officials from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said the first Western Disturbance will affect the region between January 22 and January 24, with its strongest impact likely on January 23. A second system is expected to arrive on the night of January 26 and continue until January 28, peaking on January 27.

According to the IMD, both weather systems are likely to bring heavy rain and snowfall, especially over the Pir Panjal range, the Chenab Valley in Jammu division, and the middle and higher areas of south Kashmir.

In Srinagar, the minimum temperature rose to –2.4°C on Wednesday, improving from –3.4°C the previous night. At Srinagar Airport, temperatures also showed a mild rise, indicating slightly less severe night-time cold.

Some areas, however, continued to experience freezing conditions. Qazigund and Kupwara recorded sub-zero temperatures, while Kokernag slipped back below freezing after a brief improvement.

Cloudy weather forecast in Kashmir — Clouds hovering over the Lal Chowk on a cloudy day, in Srinagar on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)

South Kashmir remained particularly cold. Anantnag, Pulwama, and Shopian all reported harsh night temperatures, with Shopian recording one of the lowest readings.

In higher reaches, cold conditions persisted. Gulmarg and Sonamarg continued to record well below-zero temperatures, though Gulmarg saw a minor rise compared to the previous night.

North Kashmir districts such as Baramulla, Bandipora, and Ganderbal showed mixed trends, with slight improvements in some places. Temperature data for Kulgam was not available on Wednesday.

In the winter capital Jammu, minimum temperatures remained mostly stable, hovering around 7°C, with only a slight dip compared to the previous night.

Overall, while there has been a small easing in night-time cold, the coming days are expected to bring fresh spells of rain and snowfall, making weather conditions challenging again across Jammu and Kashmir.

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TCI Cement Awards ₹1 Lakh Scholarship to Handwara Student Faizan Majeed Malik for Outstanding Class 10 Achievement

January 21, 2026 by NOK Desk

In an inspiring example of determination and social responsibility, Trumboo Cement Industries Private Limited (TCI Cement) has awarded a ₹1 lakh scholarship to Faizan Majeed Malik, a bright student from Handwara in Kupwara district.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Faizan secured an outstanding 488 out of 500 marks (98%) in the Class 10 examinations conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education. His achievement is even more remarkable given the difficult conditions he comes from.

Success Born Out of Hardship

Faizan lives with his family in a small tin-shed house and has faced serious financial challenges throughout his studies. Despite these hardships, he remained focused on his education and proved that strong willpower can overcome even the toughest circumstances.

Images of his modest home shared on social media deeply moved people across Kashmir, showing that success does not depend on luxury, but on dedication and discipline.

Scholarship to Support a Bigger Dream

The scholarship was presented on January 21, 2026, under TCI Cement’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The financial support will help Faizan continue his studies without economic pressure.

Faizan dreams of becoming a doctor, and this assistance is expected to play a key role in helping him move closer to that goal.

Widespread Praise and Inspiration

Faizan’s story has received widespread appreciation on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and local media outlets. Many users described him as a symbol of hope, saying his success proves that “hard work defeats hardship” and “talent shines even in the darkest conditions.”

His journey has inspired countless students from underprivileged backgrounds to believe in themselves and continue striving for excellence.

A Meaningful CSR Initiative

TCI Cement’s gesture highlights the importance of supporting talented students from weaker backgrounds. By investing in education, such initiatives not only change individual lives but also strengthen society as a whole.

Faizan’s achievement stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when resilience meets timely support.

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Pahalgam MLA Altaf Ahmad Kaloo Lays Foundation Stone for Long-Pending Karshangam Sallar Bridge

January 21, 2026 by NOK Desk

In a major push towards improving rural infrastructure and public connectivity, Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, the Hon’ble MLA Pahalgam, on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for a long-awaited bridge at Aishmuqam–Karshangam, Sallar in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

The bridge has been a long-standing demand of local residents for nearly three decades. The absence of a proper bridge had caused repeated hardships, especially during harsh weather, making daily movement and access to essential services extremely difficult. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Boost to Connectivity and Daily Life

For years, people in the area struggled with poor connectivity, affecting education, healthcare access, and emergency services. The new bridge is expected to ease daily commuting and ensure safer travel for residents.

Speaking at the occasion, MLA Altaf Ahmad Kaloo said the government is committed to balanced and inclusive development, particularly in remote and semi-urban areas. He added that the bridge would not only reduce travel time but also help strengthen local economic activity by improving access to markets and nearby towns.

Construction to Start Immediately

Officials from the Roads and Buildings Department said construction work will begin immediately and is targeted to be completed within six months. After completion, the bridge will be formally opened to the public.

Public Welcomes the Initiative

Local residents and community representatives expressed satisfaction over the start of the project, calling it a historic moment for the area. They said the bridge will improve safety, reduce hardships, and help integrate the region more closely with surrounding areas.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by senior officials, engineers, and a large number of locals, reflecting strong public support and optimism about timely completion.

A Key Development Milestone

Once completed, the Aishmuqam–Karshangam bridge is expected to become a vital infrastructure asset, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of the area and improving the overall quality of life in parts of Anantnag district.

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Jammu / Kashmir / Kashmir services

J&K Bank Posts Strong Q3 Results as Profit Rises Nearly 19%, Business Growth Remains Robust

January 20, 2026 by NOK Desk

Jammu and Kashmir Bank on Tuesday announced strong financial results for the October–December quarter (Q3 FY 2025–26), reporting a sharp rise in profit and steady improvement across key performance indicators.

The Bank’s net profit increased by 18.7 per cent quarter-on-quarter and 10.4 per cent year-on-year to ₹586.73 crore, compared to ₹531.51 crore recorded in the same quarter last year. The Board of Directors approved the results during a meeting held at the Bank’s Divisional Office in Jammu. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

For the first nine months of the current financial year, J&K Bank posted a net profit of ₹1,565.68 crore, marking a 4.5 per cent year-on-year growth and underlining the Bank’s consistent growth momentum.

Improved Margins and Operating Performance

During the quarter, the Bank’s Net Interest Margin improved to 3.62 per cent, rising by six basis points quarter-on-quarter. The Cost-to-Income Ratio also improved year-on-year to 55.88 per cent from 57.28 per cent, while Return on Assets for the nine-month period stood at 1.23 per cent.

Operating performance remained healthy, with Net Interest Income growing 3.8 per cent quarter-on-quarter to ₹1,488.88 crore. Other Income rose sharply by 15.3 per cent year-on-year to ₹279.46 crore. The Bank also benefited from a decline in the Cost of Deposits, which fell to 4.69 per cent from 4.86 per cent.

Commenting on the performance, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said that despite rate cuts, provisioning pressures related to the Grameen Bank, and challenging conditions including recent disturbances and floods, the Bank remains on track to deliver record profits for the fourth consecutive year.

Asset Quality Continues to Strengthen

J&K Bank’s asset quality showed further improvement during the quarter. Gross NPAs declined to 3.00 per cent, down by 108 basis points year-on-year, while Net NPAs reduced to 0.68 per cent. The Provision Coverage Ratio stood strong at 90.46 per cent.

Amitava Chatterjee said that despite economic challenges in the Bank’s core regions, asset quality has steadily improved due to strong risk management practices and borrower resilience.

Strong Business Growth

The Bank maintained strong business momentum in Q3, recording a 17.3 per cent year-on-year growth in gross advances and a 10.6 per cent rise in deposits. As of December 31, 2025, gross advances stood at ₹1,16,248 crore, while total deposits reached ₹1,55,861 crore.

The MD & CEO said the growth was driven by focused expansion in retail, MSME, agriculture, and select corporate segments, supported by improved credit appetite and stronger customer engagement.

Capital Position and Future Plans

The Bank’s Capital Adequacy Ratio under Basel III stood at a healthy 15 per cent. Chatterjee said this position would be further strengthened through internal accruals and the Board-approved capital raise of ₹1,250 crore, enabling the Bank to support future lending and manage risks effectively.

Key Initiatives and Digital Push

Highlighting key initiatives, the MD & CEO said the Bank continued to support customers through measures such as the 2025 Rehabilitation Package for borrowers affected by disturbances. He also said digital transformation remains central to the Bank’s strategy, with several customer-focused digital innovations launched to improve service delivery, security, and efficiency.

Concluding his remarks, Amitava Chatterjee thanked customers, stakeholders, promoters, and Bank staff for their continued trust, support, and dedication.

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Strict Action Against Anti-National Elements Essential for Peaceful Jammu and Kashmir: DGP Nalin Prabhat

January 20, 2026 by NOK Desk

The Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat, on Tuesday said that the strictest possible action against anti-national elements is essential to maintain peace and stability in the region.

He stressed the need for foolproof security planning, stronger area domination, and intelligence-based operations to ensure peaceful and incident-free Republic Day 2026 celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The DGP made these remarks while chairing a high-level security review meeting in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. During the meeting, he reviewed the overall security situation and assessed the operational preparedness of the district police.

DGP Nalin Prabhat took a detailed review of law and order arrangements, counter-terror preparedness, crime control measures, and security plans for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations. He directed officers to remain on high alert and ensure strong coordination at all levels to prevent any untoward incident.

Addressing senior and field officers, the DGP issued clear instructions to act firmly and decisively against elements posing a threat to public safety and peace. He emphasised zero tolerance towards activities harmful to national security, while also urging the police to maintain a people-friendly and professional approach during operations.

The DGP appreciated the efforts of the Ganderbal Police and encouraged them to continue working with dedication, discipline, and commitment to uphold the rule of law and provide a secure environment for citizens.

The meeting was attended by S J M Gillani, V K Birdi, Rajiv Pandey, Khalil Ahmad Poswal, along with other gazetted officers, station house officers, and district officers of Ganderbal Police.

The DGP concluded by reiterating that maintaining peace and public confidence remains the top priority of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, especially during national events like Republic Day.

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Vande Mataram 150-Year Campaign Phase II Begins In Anantnag With Mass Singing And Patriotic Events

January 20, 2026 by NOK Desk

Phase II of the national “Vande Mataram” 150 Years Commemoration Campaign began across Anantnag on Monday with mass singing programmes held at public places and institutions throughout the district.

The main event was organised at the Town Hall in Anantnag and was presided over by the Deputy Commissioner, S. F. Hamid. Participants gathered to collectively sing the national song Vande Mataram, showing a strong sense of unity, patriotism, and love for the country.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the historic importance of Vande Mataram during India’s freedom struggle and said its message of national unity and service remains relevant even today. He encouraged students and young people to follow the values of discipline, dedication, and responsible citizenship, and to play a positive role in society and nation-building.

He said that Phase II of the campaign will feature several patriotic activities across schools, colleges, and public spaces in the district. All events will be held in a respectful and inclusive manner. The campaign will conclude on Republic Day, January 26.

Praising Anantnag’s regular participation in national initiatives, Hamid expressed confidence that the second phase of the campaign would have a stronger impact. He said this would be possible through active involvement of government officials, students, youth volunteers, civil society groups, and the general public.

During the programme, documentaries and short films on the history and importance of Vande Mataram were also screened to raise awareness and deepen public understanding.

Similar mass singing events were organised in various sub-divisions and public institutions across the district, with participation from senior officers, students, and members of civil society.

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Police Seize 750 kg Rice in Handwara, Crack Down on Illegal Transport of Essential Commodities

January 18, 2026 by NOK Desk

In a continued crackdown against illegal transportation and black marketing of essential commodities, Jammu and Kashmir Police intercepted a vehicle and seized around 750 kilograms of rice in the Vilgam area of Handwara, officials said.

A police spokesperson said that during routine naka checking at Vilgam, a police team noticed a suspicious vehicle and stopped it for inspection. During the checking, the vehicle was found carrying a large quantity of rice without any valid permission or supporting documents. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The driver failed to produce any permit or proof related to the lawful transportation of the rice,” the spokesperson said.

Following this, the police seized the entire consignment on the spot and took the vehicle into custody. An FIR has been registered at Police Station Vilgam under relevant sections of law. Further investigation is underway to identify the source and intended destination of the seized rice.

Police said the action is part of ongoing efforts to prevent illegal trade and ensure the proper distribution of essential commodities. They appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious or illegal activities to the nearest police station.

Officials reiterated that strict action will continue against those involved in black marketing and unlawful transportation of essential goods.

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Minor Fire Breaks Out at Girls’ Hostel in Srinagar’s Rajbagh, Quick Action Prevents Major Damage

January 18, 2026 by NOK Desk

A minor fire incident was reported on Sunday afternoon in the Rajbagh area of Srinagar, officials said.

According to a fire official, the State Fire Control Room at Batamaloo received an emergency call, after which a fire tender from the Gowkadal Fire Station was immediately sent to the spot. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

On reaching the location, firefighters found that the fire had broken out in a room on the second floor of a four-storey building housing the Royal Girls Hostel. Preliminary checks revealed that an electric blanket had been left switched on, causing it to overheat and ignite the bedding and mattress inside the room.

The official said the hostel management acted quickly by using fire extinguishers, which helped stop the fire from spreading to other rooms.

Firefighters then fully extinguished the flames and carried out cooling operations to ensure there was no risk of re-ignition. In the incident, bedding and a mattress in one room were damaged, while the rest of the property was saved. One minor injury was also reported.

The fire operation was supervised by Deputy Director Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, with coordination and movement managed by Aijaz Ahmad Shah.

Meanwhile, Fire and Emergency Services ADGP Alok Kumar advised the public to avoid using low-quality electrical appliances and strictly warned against leaving electrical devices unattended to prevent such incidents in the future, according to KNS.

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