News - NEWS Of KASHMIR

Dr Farooq Abdullah Pays Obeisance at Ajmer Sharif, Prays for Peace and Prosperity in Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Palestine

January 18, 2025 by NOK Desk

National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah paid obeisance at the revered Dargah Shareef of Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA) in Ajmer Sharif. Accompanied by Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal and MLA Ajaz Ahmad Jan, Dr. Abdullah offered prayers for peace and prosperity, specifically for the people of Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Palestine.

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Highlighting the spiritual guidance of Khawaja sahib, Dr. Abdullah urged people to embrace his teachings and principles. Earlier, on the occasion of the 813th Urs Mubarak, Dr. Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah sent a ceremonial Chadar Sharif to the Dargah, seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and unity within the Muslim Ummah and the nation.

Indian Army Hosts Musical Event in Mughal Garden Achabal Anantnag to Promote Local Talent

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

The Indian Army organised a special musical program at Mughal Garden Achabal in Anantnag district, South Kashmir, aimed at promoting local talent in the region.

The Army organised the event with support from ‘Achabal Open Mic,’ a music management in Anantnag.Numerous local singers participated with great enthusiasm, showcasing their artistic skills despite the severe cold.

The event not only highlighted the cultural richness of the region but also provided a platform for young talents to express themselves.In recognition of their efforts, participants were awarded certificates by the Indian Army, serving to boost their morale and encourage further participation in such initiatives.

The event received widespread appreciation from Kashmiri youth, who saw it as a positive step towards fostering peace and creating employment opportunities in the Valley.

Many locals called for more such events, as they believe that supporting local talent can contribute to both cultural preservation and the development of the region’s economy.

Earlier last week, in South Kashmir’s Shopian district, the “Heemal Nagrai” Winter Carnival was held.

This event showcased the district’s rich cultural heritage while promoting winter sports activities and physical fitness. It brought together local artisans and performers, offering a vibrant platform to display traditional music, dance, and martial arts, all while fostering a strong sense of community among residents and visitors.

Winter sports activities further encouraged outdoor engagement, making the carnival a true celebration of Kashmiri culture and seasonal vitality.

To promote physical fitness and outdoor engagement, the carnival featured various winter sports activities. From snowshoeing to sledging, participants of all ages had the opportunity to enjoy the winter landscape while embracing healthy competition.

The “Heemal Nagrai” winter carnival served as a bonding experience for families and friends, providing them an opportunity to reconnect during the winter season.

As temperatures dip, the famed Kashmiri saffron fields and apple orchards lie dormant, in seasonal rest. Local markets, on the other hand, are brimming with winter essentials like Pashmina shawls, woollen garments, and the rich aroma of traditional Kashmiri foods and the hot Kahwa.

The winter season in Jammu and Kashmir also brings with it the allure of snow sports, with places like Gulmarg becoming a hub for skiers and snowboarders. (ANI)

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Plans to Establish State-of-the-Art Driving Testing Facilities in Srinagar: Vishesh Paul Mahajan

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

Transport Commissioner Jammu and Kashmir Vishesh Paul Mahajan on Friday said that Plans are underway to establish state-of-the-art driving testing facilities in Srinagar, modeled after those in Jammu.

Speaking to reporters here at Srinagar, Mahajan said that plans are underway to introduce state-of-the-art driving testing facilities in Srinagar, similar to those in Jammu which will ensure better driver evaluation and contribute to improved road safety.

Speaking about the recently launched transport subsidy scheme, he said the program aims to phase out vehicles over 15 years old, particularly buses, matadors, and minibuses. “Vehicle owners need to scrap their old vehicles, have the chassis cut, and get certified by the motor vehicle board.

Once done, they can apply for a subsidy of 16% of the vehicle’s cost or ₹5 lakh, whichever is lower,” he added.

He said the scheme has received around 35 applications in Kashmir and over 100 in Jammu so far. “We encourage more people to participate in this program to replace old vehicles that are a hazard for all,” he added.

Transport Commissioner said that efforts are being made to create a safer driving environment during the ongoing Road Safety Month.

Mahajan said he has reviewed the functioning of the entire Motor Vehicle Department in Kashmir since assuming the office in December last year. “We have launched several road safety initiatives and are focusing on strict action against traffic violators.”

He said drivers must follow basic safety rules like wearing seat belts and helmets. “If rules are violated, we will take strict actions, such as license cancellations or vehicle seizures. We cannot compromise on public safety,” he added.

He said parents must ensure their children are responsible drivers. “If anyone is involved in reckless driving or stunts, we will act firmly to prevent endangering lives,” he added.

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BJP Sees Significant Boost in Kashmir with Thousands of New Active Members

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

In a significant boost to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) presence in Kashmir, thousands of Active Membership forms were handed over to Ashok Koul General Secretary (Org) BJP J&K, by Bilal Parray, National Executive Member BJYM & Incharge Active Membership Kashmir.

This massive response from the people of Kashmir is a testament to their growing faith in the BJP’s ideology and its commitment to delivering on its promises. The party’s transparent and accountable governance has resonated deeply with the people, who have been disillusioned with previous governments that failed to deliver on their promises.

“The people of Kashmir have shown their trust in the BJP, and we are committed to working tirelessly for their welfare and development,” said Bilal Parray. “We will continue to reach out to the people, listen to their concerns, and work towards addressing them.”

The BJP’s growing popularity in Kashmir is a reflection of its efforts to connect with the people and understand their aspirations. The party’s leadership has been actively engaging with the public, addressing their grievances, and working towards creating a more inclusive and prosperous society.

With this significant influx of new members, the BJP is poised to further strengthen its presence in Kashmir and work towards creating a brighter future for the people of the region.

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CM Omar Abdullah Chairs High-Level Meeting on Mysterious Deaths in Rajouri’s Budhal Village

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting to discuss the alarming situation in Budhal village of Rajouri district, where mysterious deaths have claimed 16 lives, with one more victim succumbing to an unexplained illness.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Health & Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo; Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani; Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Dheeraj Gupta; ADGP Jammu, Anand Jain; Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar; Secretary Health & Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, and other senior medical and police officers.

Secretary Health & Medical Education, briefed the Chief Minister on the steps taken so far.

He reported that health department teams had conducted door-to-door survey of over 3,000 residents in the affected area, collecting and testing samples of water, food, and other materials.He informed that all test results, including those for influenza and other possible contaminants, came back negative.

The meeting was informed that additional testing was carried out by premier national institutes, including ICMR, National Institute of Virology, National Centre for Disease Control, CSIR, DRDO, and PGIMER Chandigarh, but no definite cause for the deaths was identified.

Police officials informed the meeting that investigations are underway to determine the root cause of the fatalities, which have been limited to three families residing within 1.5 kilometers of each other.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah directed the health and police departments to expedite their investigations.

“The unexplained nature of these deaths is deeply concerning, and the government is committed to ensuring that the root cause is identified at the earliest. I urge all departments to collaborate and leave no stone unturned in resolving this issue,” he stated.

It was also emphasized during the meeting that the health department has maintained an active presence in the area over the past 40 days, providing ambulances, medicines, and essential facilities to address any emergencies.

Expressing his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Chief Minister reassured the public that the administration is treating the situation with the highest priority.

“The health and safety of our citizens remain our top priority. The government is fully committed to resolving this crisis and ensuring justice for the affected families,” he added.

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Vehicle in Farooq Abdullah’s Convoy Meets with Accident in Rajasthan while En Route to Ajmer Sharif

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

A vehicle in the convoy of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah met with an accident near Dausa, Rajasthan, while en route to Ajmer Dargah Sharif.

The Delhi Police-escorted vehicle according to Kashmir Dot Com hit a blue bull (Neel Gai) on the highway. The impact caused both front airbags to deploy, ensuring safety for the occupants.

Abdullah, who was traveling in a separate car, remained unharmed.

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Government Approves 8th Pay Commission to Revise Salaries and Allowances

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

In a major decision, the government on Thursday decided to set up the 8th Pay Commission to revise salaries of central government employees and allowances of pensioners.

The decision to set up the 8th Pay Commission was taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.The term of the 7th Pay Commission will end in 2026.

“Prime Minister has approved 8th Central Pay Commission for central government employees,” the minister said. The chairman and two members of the Commission will be appointed soon, he added.There are over 49 lakh central government employees and nearly 65 lakh pensioners.

The minister further said the setting up of the new Pay Commission in 2025 will ensure that its recommendations are received well before the completion of the term of the seventh pay panel.Vaishnaw said consultations will be held with central and state governments and other stakeholders.

Since 1947, the government constituted seven pay commissions. The pay commission has a key role in deciding salary structures, benefits and allowances for government employees. Most of the state-owned organisations follow the commission’s recommendations.The 7th Pay Commission was constituted in 2014 and its recommendations were implemented on January 1, 2016.

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Legal Metrology J&K Seals 30 Unauthorized Petrol Pumps in A Single Day Selling Fuel illegally in kashmir valley

January 17, 2025 by NOK Desk

In a significant enforcement drive, Legal Metrology under the close supervision of Anuradha Gupta, Controller Legal Metrology J&K sealed 30 outlets today which were found selling petrol and Diesel in violation of the Legal Metrology Act 2009.

This action was part of a comprehensive effort to protect the consumer interest by ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules. The specially constituted teams of the Legal Metrology Department carried out simultaneous inspections in seven districts of Kashmir division where these outlets were operating illegally.

These special inspection teams were constituted for this purpose by way of a special order issued by the Controller, Legal Metrology and intensive inspection drives were carried out by the respective teams today during which it was found that these illegal fuel outlets were violating key legal standards and regulatory norms, including the use of unverified Nozzles and teampering with the measuring devices.

It was observed that these fuel dispensing units were operating without any authorisation either from the Oil Marketing Companies or the Petroleum and Safety Organization and the Nozzles which were used for delivering fuel to consumers were found without any verification from the Legal Metrology Department.

The quantity of Petrol or Diesel which was paid by the Consumers was not guaranteed to them in absence of the certification and checks by the concerned agencies.

In light of these facts all such dispensing units were sealed today in Budgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian, Srinagar and Anantnag. Cases have been registered against the owners/operators of these sealed petrol pumps and legal proceedings under the relevant sections of the Legal Metrology Act and Petroleum Rules are underway.

The Order issued by Controller Legal Metrology J&K has mentioned that there are reports of various outlets operating in Kashmir valley in contravention of Section 24, Section 12, Section 30 and Section 26 of Legal Metrology Act 2009 which not only goes against the interest of Consumers but they also pose a serious hazard to the public safety as they are operating without any safety standards required from Petroleum and Safety Organisation.

The order further reads that these outlets are operating in violation of the terms and conditions laid down under Rule 141 of Petroleum Rules and the allied From XIII & Article 4 therein and this non-compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and the rules therefore compromises with the transparency and consumer interest. The breach of Petroleum Rules further jeopardizes the safe handling and storage of flammable substances like Petrol and Diesel.

Anuradha Gupta said the Legal Metrology will continue such drives to ensure compliance and deter future violations. Consumers are also advised to get fuel from authorised outlets only, she added.

Meanwhile, the department has urged consumers to be vigilant and report any short delivery at fuel stations to the department. The cooperation of consumers is vital in curbing illegal operations and ensuring fair and safe fuel distribution.

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Fresh Snowfall Transforms Bhaderwah Valley and Kashmir into Winter Wonderland

January 16, 2025 by NOK Desk

Jammu division’s Bhaderwah valley in Doda district received a fresh snowfall on Thursday, as did the adjacent region of Bhalessa which was blanketed in pristine white. Poonch, too, was freshly covered in snow; while further north in Kashmir valley, there has been snowfall in Anantnag and the adjoining areas of south Kashmir.

Competing healthily with spells of snowfall in Kashmir valley, following the restoration of the Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway, a large number of tourists thronged to Bhaderwah region of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Guldanda meadow, after it received heavy snowfall earlier in January.

Guldanda, which is located at almost 10,000 feet altitude, has become a popular destination for visitors from across the country. In the past year, over 5 lakh tourists visited various parts of Bhaderwah, according to the Publicity Officer of the Bhaderwah Development Authority (BDA), Aamir Rafique.

The winter season in Jammu and Kashmir also brings with it the allure of snow sports, with places like Gulmarg becoming a hub for skiers and snowboarders.

In south Kashmir’s Shopian district, the “Heemal Nagrai” Winter Carnival was held on Saturday. This event showcased the district’s rich cultural heritage while promoting winter sports activities and physical fitness. It brought together local artisans and performers, offering a vibrant platform to display traditional music, dance, and martial arts, all while fostering a strong sense of community among residents and visitors.

Winter sports activities further encouraged outdoor engagement, making the carnival a true celebration of Kashmiri culture and seasonal vitality.

To promote physical fitness and outdoor engagement, the carnival featured various winter sports activities. From snowshoeing to sledding, participants of all ages had the opportunity to enjoy the winter landscape while embracing healthy competition.”Heemal Nagrai” winter carnival served as a bonding experience for families and friends, providing them an opportunity to reconnect during the winter season.

The event encouraged community participation, emphasising the importance of coming together to celebrate shared traditions.

By attracting visitors from nearby areas and tourists, the carnival significantly contributed to the local economy. Small businesses and vendors experienced a surge in sales, showcasing the potential of such events to foster economic growth in rural regions. (ANI)

DIG Rajiv Omprakash Pande Flags Off Cycle Rally for Pollution-Free India at Lal Chowk

January 16, 2025 by NOK Desk

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Central Kashmir, Rajiv Omprakash Pande, today flagged off a cycle rally at the historic Clock Tower in Lal Chowk.
The event is part of the ‘Pollution-Free India’ campaign and features senior citizens, all aged over 50, embarking on a journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari to promote environmental consciousness and physical fitness.
Accompanied by Superintendent of Police (SP) East, Bisma Qazi, and other police officials, DIG Pande commended the participants for their dedication.He emphasized that such initiatives not only raise awareness about pollution but also inspire healthier lifestyles. “Engaging in physical activities like cycling can naturally reduce dependence on harmful substances,” Pande noted, highlighting the link between fitness and decreased drug use.
The rally aims to motivate citizens nationwide to prioritize health and contribute to a cleaner environment. The participants’ determination serves as a powerful message, encouraging others to adopt active lifestyles and support the fight against pollution. (KNS)