J&K Government Exploring Plan to Build Cricket Stadium for National, International Matches: Chief Secretary

The Jammu and Kashmir Government is exploring the possibility of developing a cricket stadium capable of hosting national and international matches, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a two-day National Sports Conference, Dulloo said the government is assessing the feasibility of the project within the Union Territory’s financial capacity. He added that different models are being examined for the development and long-term maintenance of the proposed facility.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The government is considering whether such a project can be undertaken independently or whether collaboration with professional sports bodies would be more effective,” he said.

Dulloo said partnerships with organisations such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), other sports associations, and members of the business community are also being explored to ensure professional management and sustainability of the stadium.

He added that the proposed stadium could help promote sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir, provide better facilities for local talent, and open doors for hosting major sporting events in the region.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Anti-Skid Chains Made Mandatory on Tangmarg–Gulmarg Road Amid Snowfall Advisory

Tangmarg–Gulmarg Road

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Gulmarg on Friday issued an advisory making the use of anti-skid chains compulsory for all vehicles travelling on the Tangmarg–Gulmarg road, in view of the forecast of snowfall and icy conditions.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

According to the order, snowfall is expected in the Tangmarg–Gulmarg sector, which could make the road slippery and unsafe for traffic. To ensure public safety and smooth movement of vehicles, authorities have directed that all vehicles plying on this stretch must use anti-skid chains during snowfall and icy weather.

The order also stated that the movement of heavy vehicles on the Tangmarg–Gulmarg road has been strictly banned until further notice.

Officials warned that any violation of the directive will invite strict action under the law.

The SDM has instructed the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Tangmarg and the Tehsildar Tangmarg to strictly enforce the order and take all necessary steps to manage traffic and maintain law and order in the area.

The advisory will remain in force until further orders, depending on improvement in weather and road conditions. Meanwhile, the administration has shared contact details of designated officials in Gulmarg and Tangmarg to provide public assistance during this period.

Residents and travellers have been advised to remain cautious and strictly follow official instructions while using the route, officials said.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

J&K Prepared to Face Cross-Border Threats, Security Situation Largely Under Control: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo

Atal Dulloo

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Friday said that adversarial elements, including hostile forces from across the border, will continue attempts to create trouble, but security preparedness on the ground remains strong. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He said the region faces multiple challenges such as infiltration attempts, harsh weather, and difficult terrain, which are often exploited by hostile elements. Dulloo added that Pakistan and its terror networks keep trying to take advantage of surprise to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

Expressing confidence in the security system, he said all agencies are on high alert. The Indian Army, paramilitary forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and intelligence agencies are fully prepared to respond strongly to any conspiracy.

Dulloo described the overall security situation in Jammu and Kashmir in 2025 as largely under control, apart from one major incident — the Pahalgam attack. He said the year reflected strong operational effectiveness and several successes by security forces.

At least 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 last year, with more than a dozen injured.

He said there was visible dominance of security forces across the region and highlighted successful operations, including Operation Mahadev, and the busting of terror modules involved in attacks outside the region.

Referring to recent high-level security review meetings chaired by the Union Home Minister, Dulloo said such reviews are routine. He added that security strategies are continuously reviewed and updated to meet future challenges.

On threats in 2026, the Chief Secretary said hostile elements would keep trying to create unrest, but security forces are ensuring effective control so that terrorists do not succeed.

He also spoke about Pakistan-sponsored drone activities along the border, saying attempts to smuggle weapons and narcotics are a serious threat but are being effectively countered by the Army, Border Security Force, police, and other agencies.

Dulloo said the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir has weakened significantly. Recruitment into terrorist groups is now almost negligible, while incidents like stone-pelting and shutdowns have largely disappeared.

He added that people are moving away from violence, and any effort to revive terrorism will be dealt with firmly to ensure peace and normal life continue in the region. (Media Agencies)

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Manasbal Authority Issues Strict Waste Rules to Protect Lake Ecosystem, Warns of Fines for Violations

Manasbal

In a major step to protect the fragile ecosystem and improve cleanliness around Manasbal, the Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) has appealed to local residents, stakeholders, and tourists to follow strict waste management guidelines.

The authority said the move aims to promote a clean, hygienic, and environmentally sustainable Manasbal, while preventing pollution and damage to the lake and its surroundings.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Waste Must Be Handed Over Only to Authorised Staff

According to an official notification, households, commercial establishments, and institutions in the catchment areas have been directed to hand over their waste only to designated sanitation staff of WMDA or collection vehicles of the Rural Development Department, Block Safapora.

Waste must be handed over at the notified time and place, and dumping waste outside the authorised system has been strictly prohibited.

Mandatory Waste Segregation at Source

The authority has made waste segregation at source mandatory. People have been instructed to keep:

  • Wet / biodegradable waste such as kitchen and food waste separate
  • Dry / non-biodegradable waste including plastic, paper, glass, and metal separate

Mixing wet and dry waste has been clearly banned, as it makes proper disposal and recycling difficult.

Complete Ban on Dumping and Burning of Waste

WMDA has imposed a complete ban on dumping garbage, plastic waste, or construction debris on roads, open spaces, water bodies, drains, and other public areas. Burning waste in open areas has also been prohibited.

Citizens have been urged to use designated dustbins and collection points and avoid dumping waste at unauthorised locations.

Violators to Face Legal Action

The authority warned that any violation of these directions will invite penal action under the J&K Development Act, Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other relevant laws. This may include fines and further legal proceedings.

Call for Public Cooperation

Seeking active public participation, the Manasbal Development Authority appealed to residents, traders, tourists, and institutions to cooperate in making Manasbal a litter-free, clean, and plastic-free destination.

The authority stressed that protecting Manasbal’s natural beauty and ecosystem is a shared responsibility, and public support is essential for long-term environmental sustainability.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Body of 34-Year-Old Man Recovered in Achabal Area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag

Dead body

The body of a 34-year-old man was recovered on Thursday from Achabal area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

Officials told GNS that the deceased has been identified as Masroor Ahmad, son of Habibullah Mochi, a resident of Shelipora, Achabal. His body was spotted this morning by passersby, who immediately informed authorities.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Soon after receiving the information, a police team reached the spot and shifted the body to a hospital for medico-legal formalities.

Meanwhile, police have registered a case related to the incident and started an investigation to ascertain the cause of death.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

M Y Tarigami Says Profiling Mosques in Kashmir Is Unwarranted, Warns Against Religious Interference

Yousuf Tarigami

Central Committee member and Kulgam MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Thursday said that profiling mosques in Kashmir is “unwarranted” and only adds to the existing sense of discontent among people.

He stated that authorities must avoid targeting or controlling places of worship belonging to any specific community. According to him, such steps amount to interference in religious matters and weaken the constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Tarigami warned that these actions risk deepening public alienation and damaging trust between citizens and the administration.

In a post on X, he reiterated his stand, saying that profiling mosques is unnecessary and harmful. He stressed that respecting religious freedom is essential for maintaining harmony and public confidence in Kashmir.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Indian Army Holds Ex Servicemen Rally at Langate to Honour Veterans and Support Welfare Needs

Indian Army

To mark Defence Forces Veterans Day, the Indian Army successfully organised an Ex Servicemen Rally at Langate Army Camp in Handwara on January 14, 2026. The event focused on addressing welfare-related issues and strengthening the bond between the Army and its veterans, including Veer Naris and widows.

A large number of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, widows, and their dependents from different districts of Kashmir took part in the rally. The programme offered a single-window platform where participants could raise and resolve issues linked to pensions, medical facilities, resettlement, documentation, and other welfare schemes.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Several key offices and departments were present to support the veterans. These included representatives from Army Record Offices, the Zila Sainik Welfare Office, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), banks, the Social Welfare Department, Skill Development agencies, and other government bodies.

On-the-spot solutions were provided for issues related to service records, pension discrepancies, ECHS cards, and entitlement benefits. Many veterans appreciated the quick response and direct assistance offered during the rally.

Senior Army officers also interacted personally with the veterans and their families. They assured them of continued support and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to their well-being and dignity.

Participants expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and thanked the Indian Army for recognising their service. The rally stood as a strong reminder of the Army’s lasting responsibility towards its veterans and their families, honouring their sacrifices and dedication to the nation.

J&K Government Promotes 20 DySP Officers to SP Selection Grade, Including Khurshid Ahmad

Khurshid Ahmad

Deputy Superintendent of Police Khurshid Ahmad is among twenty officers promoted to the Superintendent of Police (SP) Selection Grade by the Jammu and Kashmir government.

According to an official order, the government has approved the placement of Deputy Superintendents of Police from the General Cadre into the Selection Grade, which falls under Level 10A of the Pay Matrix (56,600–1,79,800). Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The approval was granted through Government Order No. 19-Home of 2026, dated January 12, 2026. The decision followed recommendations made by the Home Department’s Selection Committee. A copy of the order is with Kashmir News Service (KNS).

The order states that a total of twenty DySP officers have been placed in the Selection Grade, with promotions taking effect from the dates mentioned individually for each officer.

The promotion benefits will also apply to officers who have retired, covering the period from their effective promotion date until their retirement.

Issued with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor, the order has been circulated to all concerned departments for implementation.

The officers promoted include Rakesh Kumar, Mohd. Younis, Mohd. Amin Malik, Bupinder Singh, Bharat Sharma, Naseem Akram, Shivam Jaggi, Syed Afaq Ahmed, Umer Urfan, Khurshid Ahmad, Hamidullah Naik, Gazanfer Syeed Lone, Kuldeep Raj, Ravinder Singh, Rishi Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Mahesh Sharma, Nissar Ahmed Ganie, Vijay Singh, and Neeraj Sharma.

The government clarified that these promotions will remain subject to the outcome of any related writ petitions currently pending before competent courts.

Three Houses Gutted in Pandan Nowhatta fire, Firefighter Among injured

Pandan Nowhatta

At least three residential houses were completely gutted after a fire broke out in the Pandan Nowhatta area of Srinagar on Thursday afternoon, officials said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The State Fire Control Room at Batamaloo received a distress call at around 4:38 pm, following which fire tenders from Fire Station Babdem and Fire Station Maharaj Gunj were immediately rushed to the spot. Given the congested and densely populated nature of the locality, additional reinforcements were later deployed from the Fire and Emergency Services headquarters and Fire Station Syed Hameed Pora.

On arrival, firefighters found three adjoining residential houses fully engulfed in flames. Fire personnel acted swiftly and showed remarkable courage and professionalism, managing to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

During the operation, one firefighter sustained injuries, while two local youths were also injured while assisting or caught in the incident. All three were promptly shifted to a nearby hospital, where their condition is reported to be stable.

The firefighting operation was carried out under the overall supervision of Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, Deputy Director, Fire & Emergency Services, Command Srinagar, with on-ground coordination led by Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah.

Officials said the cause of the fire has not yet been determined and is currently under investigation.

Mehbooba Mufti Remembers Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Says Jammu and Kashmir Lost a Leader Without Parallel

Mehbooba Mufti

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday remembered her father, former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, on his 10th death anniversary. She described him as a leader with no equal in Jammu and Kashmir.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Addressing party workers, Mehbooba Mufti said her father always believed in connecting directly with people rather than chasing power. She said he travelled to every village and focused on public outreach. According to her, this approach is why people still remember him with respect today.

She said Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s politics was based on reconciliation and understanding. Mehbooba added that if his vision had been followed, Jammu and Kashmir would not be facing the present difficulties. She said his absence is still strongly felt across the region.

Criticising the current government, Mehbooba Mufti alleged that orchards and trees were being cut in the name of development. She accused Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of not taking the issue seriously and claimed he was more focused on targeting the PDP.

She said the PDP no longer poses any challenge to the present government and reminded that people had given Omar Abdullah a clear mandate by awarding him 50 seats.

Highlighting her father’s stature, Mehbooba Mufti said Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was respected not only in Jammu and Kashmir but across India. She recalled that despite winning only 16 seats, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had consulted him on government formation, showing the trust and credibility he commanded.

She concluded by saying that Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s legacy stands for dignity in politics and respect for people, which continues to inspire many even today.