Dal United (JDU) Announcing Candidates for Gulmarg and Kreeri constituencies today

In a significant political move, Jammu & Kashmir’s Janata Dal United (JDU) President, GM Shaheen, has revealed that the party will be declaring its candidates for the Gulmarg and Kreri constituencies later today.

The announcement is expected to take place during a crucial official meeting scheduled for this afternoon.

This development comes as part of JDU’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the region, with Shaheen emphasizing the importance of these two constituencies in the upcoming electoral landscape.

DEO Budgam Akshay Labroo calls for strict implementation of Model Code of Conduct

The District Election Officer (DEO), Budgam, Akshay Labroo today chaired a meeting of all District and Sectoral officers of both civil and police administration to review the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), in view of the upcoming assembly elections.

At the outset, all the district and sectoral officers were sensitized regarding the strict adherence to Model Code of Conduct during the Assembly Elections-2024 in the District.

DEO directed the all concerned officers to sensitize their subordinate staff regarding the ECI’s guidelines during the MCC.

He said all the guidelines laid down by ECI should be implemented in letter and spirit to ensure playing field to all contesting candidates & to ensure absolutely free & fair polls in the district.

SSP Budgam, Nikhil Borkar also spoke on the occasion, and stressed on ensuring adequate security measures for free, fair and seamless polls in the district.

Among others the meeting was also attended by ADC, ASP, CPO, Dy. DEO, all SDMs, all SDPOs, all Tehsildars and all SHOs besides all sectoral and district officers of all the wings.

Farooq Abdullah is Ready to Contest in Assembly Polls

farooq

National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said he will participate in the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Farooq Abdullah, said that he will contest the assembly polls, and that once the statehood is restored, he will step down and his son Omar Abdullah will contest from the seat.

He said that the Statehood has been promised by the central government and all parties are seeking complete restoration at the earliest.

Abdullah while reacting to the poll schedule, said that it is better as it will expose the readiness of parties for the elections.

He said that any decision over pre-poll alliance will be taken by the party after holding threadbare deliberations

The Election Commission of India Friday announced three-phase polls, which were long overdue in Jammu and Kashmir, with first phase being held on September 18, second on September 25 and the third phase on October 1.

Results will be announced on October 4 along with Haryana assembly results, which will go to polls on October 1—(KNO)

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024: Voting Dates and Key Details Announced

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024, which will be held from 18 September to 1 October. The elections will be conducted in three phases, with voting scheduled for 18 September, 25 September, and 1 October, and the counting of votes set for 4 October. This marks the first Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since it was reconstituted as a Union Territory.

Election Schedule and Voter Details

The electoral process will be divided into three phases:

  • Phase 1: 18 September 2024
  • Phase 2: 25 September 2024
  • Phase 3: 1 October 2024

The counting of votes will take place on 4 October 2024. Jammu and Kashmir will have a total of 87.09 lakh voters in this election, including 44.46 lakh male voters and 42.62 lakh female electors. Additionally, there will be 3.71 lakh first-time voters participating in these elections.

The region has 90 Assembly constituencies, with 74 being general constituencies, 7 reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC), and 9 for Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Preparations and Security

The announcement followed a visit earlier this month by a delegation led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, who reviewed the preparedness of the administration and security agencies. The ECI has assured that all necessary measures are in place to conduct the elections smoothly despite any potential challenges.

The final voter list will be published on 20 August 2024, just after the conclusion of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which ends on 19 August. This timing was essential to ensure the electoral roll is up-to-date and to avoid any security concerns associated with the Yatra.

Political and Public Reactions

The ECI’s announcement has been welcomed by political parties and the public, reflecting a strong desire for the return of democratic processes. Chief Election Commissioner Kumar noted the enthusiasm among the populace and their eagerness to participate in the electoral process. He emphasised that despite any potential disruptions, the ECI is committed to ensuring a fair and orderly election.

The last Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir were held in November-December 2014. The Assembly was dissolved in November 2018, and following the reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories in 2019, the electoral process has now resumed. The delimitation of constituencies, which was notified in May 2022, has resulted in 43 constituencies for the Jammu region and 47 for the Kashmir region.

Looking Forward

As the election dates approach, attention will be focused on the final preparations and the actual conduct of the elections. The ECI’s commitment to a transparent and efficient electoral process will be crucial in ensuring that the elections reflect the will of the people and contribute to the democratic governance of Jammu and Kashmir.

Additional Foodgrains Available for AAY and PHH Households in Jammu & Kashmir

Constituency Development Fund

The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs has announced that additional foodgrains will be made available to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH) if needed.

Currently, the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Jammu & Kashmir serves 25.11 lakh households, totalling 98.64 lakh beneficiaries. Of these, 16.64 lakh households with 66.18 lakh beneficiaries are eligible to receive free foodgrains each month under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

Additionally, nearly 8.47 lakh Non-Priority Households, comprising around 32.46 lakh beneficiaries, are provided foodgrains at highly subsidised rates: rice at Rs. 15/kg, wheat at Rs. 12/kg, and wheat flour at Rs. 13/kg.

To further support Priority Households (PHH), the Government of Jammu & Kashmir is implementing the Prime Minister’s Food Supplementation for Priority Households Scheme. This scheme provides an extra 5 kg of rice per month per member of a PHH, up to a maximum of 10 kg per household, at a cost of Rs. 25/kg. The total entitlement per household under all schemes is capped at 35 kg. Currently, 13.49 lakh households are eligible under this scheme.

The rice is procured through the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) of the Department of Food & Public Distribution, Government of India. Approximately 12,400 MT of foodgrains are required each month to meet the needs of eligible households under this scheme.

As per Government Order No: 94-JK(FCS&CA) of 2023, dated 20-07-2023, there is a provision to supply additional foodgrains at market rates to AAY and PHH families if they request them. This provision appears to have been overlooked by some beneficiaries. Therefore, the Department has issued a new order reminding that if any Priority Household or AAY family needs further foodgrains, they will be provided at a sale price. This price will cover the actual cost of procurement from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) plus the Department’s handling charges.

Government Transfers 33 Officers in Administrative Reshuffle33 Officers

The government on Friday ordered transfer of 33 officers in the interest of administration with immediate effect.

According to two separate orders which follow transfer and posting of 89 officers ordered on August 15, Abid Iqbal Malik, JKAS, Deputy District Election Officer, Ganderbal, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Tourism, Kashmir.

Malik Waseem Ahmad, JKAS, Deputy Director Tourism, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Deputy District Election Officer, Ganderbal.

Vishavjeet Singh, JKAS, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has been transferred and posted as Secretary, Jammu Development Authority.

Ms. Rehana Akhtar Bijli, JKAS, Personnel Officer, Associated Hospital, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Social Welfare Department.

Sahil Jandyal, JKAS, Secretary, Jammu Development Authority, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Agriculture Production Department.

Suhail-ul-Islam, JKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology , Environment, has been transferred and posted as Secretary, Srinagar Municipal Corporation.

Ms. Mantasa Binti Rashid, JKAS, Deputy Director, Tourism, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Rural Sanitation, Kashmir.

Mr. Athar Amin Zargar, JKAS, awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Marh. “He shall also hold the charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Marh, in addition to his own duties, till further orders,” reads an order, copy of which lies with Global News Services.

Ms. Sanina Khan, JKAS, Deputy Director, Rural Sanitation, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director (Administration) in the Directorate of Social Welfare, Jammu, against an available vacancy.

Mr. Manu Hansa, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Marh, holding additional charge of the post of Sub Registrar, Marh, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Tribal Affairs, Jammu.

Nasir Mehmood Khan, JKAS, Assistant Commissioner (Nazool), Srinagar, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director Tourism, Kashmir.

Mr. Arun Kumar Badyal, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Gandoh, holding additional charge of Sub Registrar, Gandoh, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Mr. Musharraf Ali Haf, IKAS, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Doda, has been transferred and posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Gandoh. “He shall also hold the posted as of Sub-Registrar, Gandoh, in addition to his own duties, till further orders.”

Also, Manoj Kumar, JKAS, Project Officer, Wage Employment (ACD), Doda, has been asked to hold the charge of the post of Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Doda, in addition to his own duties, till further orders.

Shuaib Mohammad Naikoo, IKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to Government, Public Works (R&B) Department.

Atul Dutt Sharma, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jammu (South), has been transferred and posted as personal officer, associated hospitals Jammu.

Mr. Rafiq Ahmad, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ramnagar, holding additional charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Ramnagar, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jammu (South) vice Mr. Atul Dutt Sharma.

Bashir Ahmad Padder, JKAS, General Manager, JKTDC, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner (Nazool), Srinagar.

Gulshan Kumar, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.

Rajinder Singh, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Kathua, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ramnagar vice Mr. Rafiq Ahmad. “He may also hold the charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Ramnagar, in addition to his duties, till further orders. “

Mudasir Hussain Famda, JKAS, Secretary, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department.

Mohd. Sayeed, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Samba, has been transferred and posted as District Mineral Officer, Rajouri.

Abdul Khabir, JKAS, Deputy Director, Tribal Affairs Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

Ms. Naseema Akhter, JKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment.

Farooq Ahmed Malik, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Tribal Affairs Department.

Pawan Kumar Goswami, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Gool, holding additional charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Gool, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Ajay Salaan, JKAS, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Industries and Commerce Department.

Altaf Hussain Bhat, JKAS, Administrative Officer in the office of Managing Director, JKSPDC, has been transferred and posted as General Manager, JKTDC, Kashmir.

Also, as per a separate order, Ms. Prerna Raina, JKAS, Additional Secretary in the Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi, has been transferred and asked to await further orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department.

Abhimanyu Singh, Jr. JKAS, presently posted as BDO, Reasi, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi.

Mohd. Abrar, Jr. JKAS, presently awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

Saroj Khah, Under Secretary in the office of Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi has been recalled and asked to await further orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department.

Sanjay Kumar Koul, Under Secretary in the Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi, has been transferred and posted as Under Secretary to the Government, Cooperatives Department.

Susheel Kumar, State Taxes Officer, P-side Railway Station, Jammu, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Principal Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi against an available vacancy for a period of one year, on deputation basis, subject to the condition that he shall retain lien, seniority and promotion prospects in his parent Department i.e. State Taxes Department. (GNS)

To Combat Border Infiltration DGP Calls for Strengthening Village Defence Groups

JK Police

Jammu and Kashmir DGP RR Swain on Sunday  said that we have always had a different kind of challenge in the tunnelling and the riverine.

“But taking advantage of the villages, the border villages who have a history of standing up and being able to participate alongside police and security forces, to be able to play their role or contribute and defeat infiltration and intrusion. We want to take that to a different level,” he said.

DGP Swain said that there were village defence groups earlier, but their numbers were less.

“In some of these village defence groups, the total number of members was less…So we would like to increase both the numbers and the membership,” he said.

The police chief said that  they would like to also increase the quality of the weapons, the equipment and the coordination with the police and the BSF, and a new level of energy..

Ladakh Hosts Successful 8th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2024

The 8th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2024 recently concluded at the NDS Multipurpose Indoor Sports Stadium in Leh, Ladakh. This prestigious event, organized by the Ladakh Pencak Silat Association in collaboration with Youth Services & Sports, UT of Ladakh, LAHDC, and the Indian Pencak Silat Federation, brought together 454 athletes from 18 States/UTs.

Notably, this competition marked Ladakh’s inaugural national-level martial arts event, showcasing the region’s commitment to promoting traditional martial arts. Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche graced the opening ceremony as the guest of honor, alongside other dignitaries such as Tsering Angchuk (Deputy Chairman, LAHDC Leh), Mosis Kunzang (Director of Youth Services and Sports, UT of Ladakh), Kishore Prakash Yewale (President of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation), and Tariq Ahmad Zargar (Secretary General of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation).

Jammu & Kashmir athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication, securing the Overall Championship. Haryana also performed admirably, with Ladakh hosting the event and contributing to its success.

During the closing ceremony, Chief Guest Vikram Singh Malik emphasized the role of Pencak Silat in fostering discipline, fitness, and cultural exchange. Nuzhat Gull, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, congratulated the victorious team, attributing their consistent achievements in martial arts to the development of sports infrastructure over the past decade. She expressed gratitude to the LG administration for their special focus on sports in J&K.

Srinagar Hits Season’s Hottest Night for Second Consecutive Time, Tying Historic Temperature Record

For the second consecutive night, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has experienced the hottest night of the season, with temperatures reaching 24.8 degrees Celsius.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng reported to the Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that Srinagar’s minimum temperature of 24.8 degrees Celsius was 6.0 degrees above the seasonal average. This temperature ties with the second highest minimum ever recorded in the city, matching the mark set on July 26, 2021. The record for the highest minimum temperature remains at 25.2 degrees Celsius, noted on July 21, 1988.

However, a significant drop in temperatures is anticipated for Jammu and Kashmir starting today, according to weather predictions.

Jammu and Kashmir Government Bans Tourist Tents in Gurez to Protect Environment

“The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken a significant step to protect the environment in Gurez. Effective from July 15, 2024, the government has banned the installation of temporary tents for night stays by tourists and visitors. The decision comes after concerns about trash and garbage left behind by campers, which negatively impacts the delicate ecosystem and poses health risks.

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez issued an order revoking the earlier permission for installing temporary tents (granted under order No: SDM/G/2024/245-49 dated May 28, 2024). The SDM emphasized the need to safeguard vulnerable areas and maintain environmental integrity.

Locals can still rent out tents to tourists, but they must ensure cleanliness at the sites. Additionally, a sanitation fee will be collected by the Rural Sanitation Department for waste management.

Deputy Commissioner Bandipora has formed teams to enforce the ban and monitor cleanliness. Police and army authorities at Tragbal will conduct thorough vehicle checks to ensure compliance. Block Development Officers in Gurez, Tulail, and Bagtore will assist by providing garbage vehicles when necessary.

J&K PC President Sajad Lone Raises Concerns Over Arrests and Harassment During Electoral Process

sajad lone

J&K Peoples Conference President, Sajad Gani Lone, expressed apprehension regarding the arrests and harassment of workers on alleged OGW (Overground Worker) grounds and other arbitrary pretexts. He appealed to both the Election Commission and the administration to uphold principles of fairness and impartiality in the electoral process, urging them not to selectively target parties and their workers.

Lone echoed the sentiments voiced by Mr. Altaf Bukhari, emphasizing agreement with his assertion that workers are being unjustly detained under OGW grounds and other flimsy excuses. He noted a coincidence that these OGW lists were compiled during the regimes of the National Conference (NC).

Calling for a level playing field for all political entities, Lone urged the Election Commission and administration to refrain from selective actions. He also urged them to scrutinize the history and context of lists in police stations, alleging that many were compiled by the NC.

Furthermore, Lone accused the NC of attempting to portray themselves as victims and staging a drama of victimhood. He criticized the NC, labeling them as past rulers who imposed cruelty upon Kashmiris.

Lone highlighted a perceived status-quoist ecosystem, suggesting that those advocating for political stagnation in Kashmir are still active. Additionally, he accused certain elements, whom he referred to as “Tourist/Tarbaaz (TT)”, of perpetuating a narrative of victimhood.

Weather Outlook: Dry Spells with Intermittent Thunderstorms Forecasted for Jammu and Kashmir Until May 10th

The weather department has projected predominantly dry conditions across Jammu and Kashmir until May 10th, with a possibility of localized thunderstorm activity in the afternoon at select areas. Additionally, on May 11th, partly to generally cloudy weather is forecasted, accompanied by light rain and thunder at a few locations.

Looking ahead to May 12th, many regions are expected to experience generally cloudy weather with light rain and possible snowfall in higher elevations, along with sporadic thunder activity in select areas. On May 13th, partly to generally cloudy weather is anticipated, with light rain expected at a few places.

In terms of temperatures, Srinagar saw a minimal rise, recording a low of 11.2°C, slightly above the seasonal average. Qazigund and Kokernag experienced temperatures above normal, while Pahalgam recorded a dip below the expected range. Other regions such as Kupwara and Jammu observed variations from the usual temperatures, indicating a fluctuating weather pattern in the region.

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Joyful Eid Celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir

Celebrations for Eid-ul-Fitr were joyously observed across Jammu and Kashmir, drawing thousands of devotees to various prayer venues. The Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar saw a massive congregation, along with Chrari Sharief in Budgam, Dar-ul-uloom Raheemiyyah Bandipora, and numerous Eidgahs across districts, all concluding prayers peacefully.

At the Hazratbal shrine, worshippers adorned in traditional attire gathered early, seeking blessings and unity through prayer. Similarly, Chrari Sharief and other Eidgahs resonated with faithful prayers, showcasing the region’s diverse yet harmonious spirit.

Authorities meticulously arranged for smooth prayer proceedings, ensuring worshippers’ safety and comfort with heightened security measures. Despite this, the closure of Jama Masjid’s gates in Srinagar and the house arrest of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq cast a shadow over the festive atmosphere.

The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid expressed disappointment over the denial of mosque access, citing it as a violation of religious freedoms. They condemned the recurring restriction on mosque entry, emphasizing its adverse impact on communal cohesion and spiritual practice.

J&K Police and Security Forces Conduct Flag March Across Valley Ahead of LS Polls

Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, alongside security forces, orchestrated a notable flag march spanning all ten districts of the Kashmir Valley. This strategic move, designed to inspire confidence among citizens, aims to pave the way for a seamless and peaceful polling experience.

Led by Vijay Kumar, the Additional Director General of Police for Law and Order in Jammu and Kashmir and the State Police Nodal Officer for the 2024 parliamentary elections, the comprehensive flag march underscores a commitment to election security and smooth proceedings. Security officials emphasize the importance of proactive measures, including continuous monitoring and preemptive actions to mitigate potential risks.

Special attention is devoted to sensitive polling areas, with robust security arrangements and safe routes meticulously planned to safeguard electoral personnel and ensure operational efficiency. ADGP L&O reaffirms the dedication of law enforcement agencies to uphold democratic principles by fostering a secure and equitable electoral environment.

Under the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, the flag march witnessed the joint participation of Jammu and Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces. Notably, in Srinagar city, security convoys traversed from Rajbagh to Rambagh, showcasing preparedness and bolstering citizens’ confidence in the electoral process.

As political parties gear up for the elections, such initiatives are pivotal in fostering a conducive atmosphere for democratic participation and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

Tragic Accident: Four Dead, Three Injured as Vehicle Skids Off Road in Ramban – Details Unfold!

In a devastating incident on Monday morning, a vehicle skidded off the road in Maligam of Ukhrall in Ramban district, resulting in the loss of four lives and leaving three others injured, according to officials.

The accident occurred as the vehicle, traveling from Maligam to Ukhrall, lost control on the slippery road near Maligam, plunging off the roadway.

Immediately following the incident, a swift rescue operation was initiated, with responders rushing to the scene. Tragically, four bodies were recovered from the accident site, while the three injured individuals were promptly transferred to PHC Ukhrall for medical attention.

The deceased have been identified as Abdul Wahid Bali, Aanayatullah, Mohammad Ayoub Bali, and the driver, Sajjad Ahmad, all residents of Pogal.

This heart-wrenching accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by treacherous road conditions, particularly during inclement weather. It underscores the importance of exercising caution while driving, especially in areas prone to slippery surfaces.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to those injured in this tragic event. May they find strength and solace during this difficult time.

J&K Twin Sisters Triumph on Russian Soil: Gold Medal Glory at Moscow Wushu Championship

Twin sisters hailing from Srinagar have showcased their prowess on Russian turf by triumphing over their Russian counterparts in the ongoing Russian Moscow Stars Wushu International Championship.

Ansa Chishti and Ayeera Chishti, the twin siblings, have brought honor to the Jammu and Kashmir valley by clinching gold medals in the prestigious Russian Moscow Stars Wushu International Championship, which commenced on February 28 and is set to conclude on March 5, 2024.

Excelling in their respective weight categories of 52 and 56, they emerged victorious over their Russian adversaries in the finals, delivering exhilarating news to the entire J&K Union Territory and the broader sports community in J&K.

The sports scene in the Kashmir valley is scaling new heights, thanks to recent upgrades in indoor stadium facilities and infrastructure. Athletes now benefit from top-notch amenities provided within these indoor arenas.

The sisters’ relentless dedication and rigorous training regimen for this momentous event have finally paid dividends. Ayeera’s remarkable achievement marks her third international medal, following previous triumphs in Georgia (gold) and Indonesia (bronze). Her coach proudly declares this as her third consecutive medal in international wushu championships.

Last year, one of the sisters was shortlisted for a prestigious state award, a testament to her groundbreaking contribution as the first female wushu athlete to be nominated for such recognition. Meanwhile, Ansa adds to her international accolades with her second medal in wushu championships, having previously secured silver in the Georgia International Wushu Championship before clinching her inaugural gold in international competition.

Secretary of the Youth Services and Sports Department, Sarmand Hafeez, along with Sports Council Secretary, Nuzhat Gul, extend their heartfelt congratulations to the victorious sisters for their remarkable feat on Russian soil.

“The success achieved by both sisters on Russian territory underscores the advancements in sports infrastructure within the Jammu and Kashmir valley,” remarks Sarmand Hafeez, highlighting the burgeoning prowess of women in sports who, through rigorous training abroad, are proving their mettle on the international stage.

Meanwhile, the Sports Council Secretary acknowledges the fruitful outcomes of wushu facilities’ enhancements and indoor stadium constructions, citing the sisters’ triumph as a testament to the tangible results of their efforts.

The triumph of these remarkable sisters serves as a testament to the fruition of our endeavors, as conquering foreign adversaries on their home turf demands immense perseverance and rigorous training.

LG Manoj Sinha: Will Leave J&K Only After Holding Elections

LG

Srinagar, January 10 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha affirmed on Wednesday that he will depart from J&K only after overseeing the elections.

Addressing the audience at Abhinav Theatre Jammu during the Abhinandan Samaroh organized by the All Minority Employees Association of Kashmir, Sinha, as reported by Kashmir News Service (KNS), mentioned that there is talk about him entering electoral contests, but he has no intention of participating in elections or engaging in politics.

Sinha emphasized that the attainment of peace is a gradual process that cannot be bought but demands purposeful endeavors, and the government is actively working towards achieving this objective.

Furthermore, he expressed the commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to eradicate terrorism and create a safe and secure environment for the people. Sinha asserted that terrorism is on its last breath, and efforts are underway to eliminate the terror ecosystem from the soil of J&K. He highlighted that the combination of peace and development has significantly improved the quality of life and the standard of living for the residents.

Sinha acknowledged the varying perspectives between Jammu and Kashmir, noting that he has maintained consistency in his statements across both regions of J&K. Emphasizing the diversity of J&K, the LG described it as a land of major religions where respect for all sects has enriched the cultural heritage.

In conclusion, expressing support for the youth, LG Sinha announced that the administration would provide assistance to the 5163 youths registered with the Relief & Rehabilitation Department for self-employment opportunities.

“Due to the emerging peace in the Kashmir Valley, our adversaries are promoting proxy wars,” states Gen Manoj Pande

Ahead of Army Day on January 15, Chief of Army Staff, General Manoj Pande, said on Thursday that the situation and terrorist activities in Rajouri and Poonch in the last 5-6 months have been an issue of concern and because peace is coming in the valley, our adversaries are encouraging proxy wars in the area. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The situation and terrorist activities in Rajouri and Poonch in the last 5-6 months have been an issue of concern to us. By 2003, terrorism in this area was fully disseminated and peace was established there until 2017-18. Because peace is coming in the valley, our adversaries are encouraging proxy wars in the area. The Pakistan Army is trying to aggregate terrorism in the Rajouri Poonch area.” said CoAS General Manoj Pande was speaking at the annual press conference ahead of Army Day on January 15.

“As far as the situation in JK is concerned, the ceasefire understanding along the LoC continues to hold. Even though we see infiltration attempts, which we have been able to thwart… We have a strong anti-drone mechanism in place to stop the use of drones to smuggle weapons and narcotics…. The area of Rajouri Poonch has seen increased terrorist activities. Support infrastructure for proxy tandems in the Rajouri Poonch sector from across the border continues…” General Manoj Pande added.

The Chief of Army Staff, General Manoj Pande, also said on Thursday that the security situation on the northern border is stable but sensitive.

“The situation on the Northern border is stable but sensitive. We continue to talk to find a solution to address and balance issues between the two sides. Operational preparedness is very high, and deployment is both robust and balanced.” Chief of Army Staff, Manoj Pande said.

The Indian Army signed contracts worth Rs 12,000 crore with private Indian firms. And we have major projects like light tanks and future-ready combat vehicles, said General Manoj Pande.

He also spoke on Indo-Myanmar border security.

“The situation at the Indo-Myanmar border is of concern to us. You are aware of the activities of the Myanmar army, the ethnic armed organization and the PDF in the past couple of months, which has resulted in some of the Myanmar army personnel walking across about 416 of them to date. Also, some of the civilians from Bhutan are taking shelter both in Mizoram and Manipur. But what is of concern is that, because of the situation across the Indo-Myanmar border, we also have some of the insurgent groups who are feeling the pressure and who have now attempted to come onto our side of the border in the state of Manipur. That, combined with the situation in Manipur, is something we are keeping a close watch on. We have close to 20 Assam Rifle Battalions, which are deployed at the Indo-Myanmar border. There is also a talk of further strengthening our fence along the border…” said the Chief of Army Staff.

“With Bhutan, we have a unique bilateral relationship with mural trust and it transcends into the military domain as well. India and Bhutan share mutual security concerns, of which we are aware. We are closely monitoring the military talks and we are communicating with Bhutan,” General Pande concluded. 

Srinagar District Administration Bids Fond Farewell to Outgoing DC and Welcomes New Leadership

DC Srinagar

The Srinagar District Administration bid a heartfelt farewell to the outgoing Deputy Commissioner, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, in a splendid ceremony held at the Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex. Mohammad Aijaz Asad has been reassigned to the Administrative Secretary position in the Planning & Monitoring Department and Civil Aviation Department.

The event also marked the welcoming of Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, who assumed the role of the new Deputy Commissioner (DC) for Srinagar, with great enthusiasm from the Officers and Staff of the DC Office Srinagar. The gathering included Additional District Development Commissioner, Srinagar RTO Kashmir, Additional Deputy Commissioners, Chief Planning Officer, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, SDMs, Tehsidhars, and various District & Sectoral Officers.

During the occasion, officers commended the significant contributions of outgoing DC Mohammad Aijaz Asad. They praised his efforts in spearheading developmental initiatives in Srinagar District, ensuring an efficient public delivery system, and actively working towards mitigating the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, addressing the drug menace, promoting employment, and advancing infrastructure development. The officers also highlighted the achievements accomplished under his dynamic leadership.

The District Administration warmly welcomed Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat as the new Deputy Commissioner, expressing confidence in his leadership. Mohammad Aijaz Asad, in his address, emphasized the importance of team spirit and the improved work culture within the District Administration. He urged all officers to work with dedication and sincerity for the greater welfare of the public.

Expressing gratitude for the support received during his three-year tenure, Mohammad Aijaz Asad welcomed Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat and hoped that the District Administration under his guidance would continue to prioritize socio-economic development. Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, in his response, stressed the need for dedication to public welfare and committed efforts from all officers. He pledged full support for honest endeavors aimed at prompt work disposal and overall development in Srinagar District.

Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat acknowledged the honor of serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the historic and prestigious Capital City, extending heartfelt thanks to outgoing DC Mohammad Aijaz Asad. Other speakers at the event included ADDC Srinagar Zahoor Ahmad Mir, RTO Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz, ADC Srinagar Syed Shabir Ahmad, ADC Srinagar Syed Ahmad Kataria, Chief Planning Officer Mohammad Yaseen Lone, ACD Syed Farooq, and other senior officers of the District Administration Srinagar.