Relief for Farmers in Udhampur as 4-Month Dry Spell Ends with Rains

Dry Spell Ends

Dry Spell Ends, farmers in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir have got relief with the arrival of rainfall.The farmers had been struggling with harsh conditions, uncertain about the fate of their crops, given the four-month dry spell.

For the past 4months, farmers have been struggling with dried-out fields and withering crops due to the lack of water. The recent rains have infused them with a new hope for their crops, promising better harvests.

Sanjeev Kumar, a farmer from Debrah village in Udhampur, said that the crops would have been destroyed if it didn’t rain. He said that without rains the vegetable crops were drying up, leaving him worried.

“We waiting for rainfall for the last four months and finally continued rainfall brings cheers to farmers. He added that planted vegetables this time, but due to the absence of rain, the crops were drying up, and we were worried. However, rain has provided relief. If it hadn’t rained, our crops would have been ruined,” Kumar told ANI.

He further stated that rainfall is good for crops, and they will have a good profit.

Meanwhile, a layer of fog blanketed many regions of northwest India on Thursday with Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar, witnessed snow falling as the city experienced intense cold.

“Recent Satellite imagery detected fog layer over South Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, north Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, west and south Uttar Pradesh, south Himachal Pradesh, south Uttarakhand, southwest Bihar, west Jharkhand, north Chhattisgarh and east Gujarat,” The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a post on X. (ANI)

Unidentified Body Recovered in Khudwani Kulgam ,which was Hanging with a Tree

Dead

Dead Body Recovered in khudwani: A man was found hanging from a tree in Khudwani area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Monday morning, officials said.

An official said that locals found the man hanging from a tree and accordingly informed the police.

He said that police have taken the body into their possession for medico-legal formalities, while identification is being ascertained and further investigation is going on—(KNO)

Hate Will Not Define Us:Kashmir’s Open Mosques and Hearts Amidst Divisions and Challenges

Kashmir's

In a poignant display of Kashmir’s enduring ethos of hospitality and humanity, residents of Gund, located on the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway, turned the Jamia Masjid into a sanctuary for stranded tourists caught in a snowstorm.
A dozen travellers from Punjab, returning from Sonamarg, were left stranded on Friday as their vehicles became immobile in heavy snowfall. With local houses too small to accommodate the group and no hotels nearby, Gund’s residents opened the mosque’s doors, ensuring the visitors had a warm place to stay.
“The mosque’s hamaam, which stays warm all night, was the best option for their comfort and safety,” said Bashir Ahmad, a local.
The Jamia Masjid, a beacon of hope in Gund, stands less than 10 kilometers from Gagangir, where a recent terrorist attack claimed six lives. Yet, the locals’ gesture serves as a reminder of Kashmir’s deep-rooted culture of compassion.
Videos of the tourists resting in the mosque have gone viral, with the visitors expressing heartfelt gratitude. “Kashmiris saved us in the middle of nowhere. Their warmth and hospitality are unmatched,” one tourist said.
Another remarked, “This experience shows how kind and welcoming the people here are. Kashmir is truly safe and beautiful.
The act of kindness has drawn praise from across the region. Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq commended the gesture, stating, “This reflects Kashmir’s tradition of helping others in times of need, despite the challenges we face,” locals said according to KNS correspondent.
Elsewhere in the Valley, heavy snowfall left tourists stranded on the Srinagar-Jammu highway and other destinations like Doodhpathri. Yet, many tourists seemed undeterred by the ordeal, embracing the adventure.
A tourist from Haryana, stuck at Qazigund, noted, “Despite the cold, this experience is unique. It’s part of Kashmir’s charm.”
Gund locals highlighted their resilience and values amidst trying times. “Even when our people and places are targeted, we respond with peace and compassion. Hate will not define us,” one resident said.
Masroor Ansari, Chief of Itihadul Muslimeen, echoed the sentiment on X, writing, “Hospitality is integral to our faith. Welcoming guests, friends, or strangers is a cornerstone of Muslim societies, and Kashmir embodies this beautifully.”
Amidst divisive times, Kashmir’s timeless spirit of kindness and hospitality continues to shine through. (KNS)

For Dereliction of Duty Assistant Executive Engineer Suspended in J&K’s Doda

Assistant Executive Engineer suspended

The Deputy Commissioner Doda has ordered suspension of Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) PMGSY Division Doda, citing suboptimal performance and negligence in clearing snow-blocked rural roads. The suspension came after reports of dereliction of duty by the AEE during crucial winter periods.

The inquiry revealed that the AEE left his station without prior authorization and failed to resume his duties despite repeated directives. This absence led to delays in road clearance, creating difficulties for residents in accessing critical services. The administration emphasized that such behavior is unbecoming of a public servant, particularly during emergencies demanding efficient responses.

The order noted that the AEE had been reprimanded multiple times for his casual approach and failure to perform his duties. He has now been attached to the 24X7 Emergency Control Room at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Doda till further orders.

To ensure smooth operations, Mukesh Kumar, Assistant Executive Engineer PWD, Doda, and Umar Jan, Assistant Engineer PWD, Bhagwah, have been directed to oversee the responsibilities of the PMGSY Sub Divisions in addition to their own duties.

This decisive action underscores the administration’s commitment to maintaining accountability and ensuring timely public service delivery in adverse weather conditions.

DC Shopian Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar Reviews Snow Clearance Operations on Mughal Road

Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar

Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, today visited Heerpora village to review the snow clearance operations on Mughal Road.

He was accompanied by ADDC, Dr.Nasir Ahmad Lone, ADC, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz and other officers & officials of MED & Police.The DC emphasized the importance of clearing snow from the vital road which serves connecting link between Shopian and the Pir Pangal region.

He also stated that the snow clearance shall be completed upto Peer Ki Gali by tomorrow provided fair weather conditions.During his visit, the DC took stock of the snow clearance efforts ensuring that the road is cleared as soon as possible to facilitate smooth transportation and accessibility for residents and travelers.

He also directed the concerned agencies to gear up their activities by deploying more snow cutters.The visit demonstrates the district administration’s commitment to minimizing disruptions and ensuring smooth vehicular movement during the winter season.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Praises Swift Snowfall Response by Power and Roads Departments

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday commended the swift response of government departments in dealing with the disruptions caused by recent heavy snowfall in the valley.

Highlighting the efforts of the Power Development Department (PDD), Abdullah noted their remarkable work in restoring electricity after outages.

In a post on X, he wrote, The Power Department did a remarkable job dealing with the outages caused by the recent snowfall in the valley. These numbers tell the complete story. The supply of electricity dipped drastically between the hours of 4 AM & 10 AM as the system was hit by the snow. From 10 AM the demand starts recovering as the system was brought back online & the damage repaired.

The Chief Minister gave a special mention to the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), saying, “Kudos to @kpdclofficial for their work on the ground.”

Abdullah also applauded the Publics Works Department (Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department) for their efficiency in clearing snow-covered roads and lanes. “They moved quickly to open the main roads and then, as per the schedule of priority, continued their efforts. Today the focus has been on smaller roads and inner lanes,” he said.

The timely response by both departments has been widely appreciated, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life in the valley despite challenging weather conditions.

Story of Kindness and Compassion Locals Open Hearts and Homes to Stranded Tourists at Every Place in Kashmir

Spirit of Kashmir

During the heavy snowfall, the beautiful district of Ganderbal in Kashmir turned into a beacon of hope, of kindness, and of charity. As tourists found themselves stranded due to the inclement weather, the locals of Ganderbal opened their hearts, homes, and mosques to provide shelter, warmth, and sustenance to those in need. 
This kind of selfless hospitality is a feature that is inherent in the character of Kashmir, where guesthood is an integral part of its ethos. Kashmiri people are always reputed to be very hospitable and kind-hearted, and in countless instances they go the extra mile for the comfort and pleasure of their guests. The recent developments in Ganderbal are a great testimonial to this tradition, as residents have sidelined their own personal sufferings to cater to the suffering of others.As the snowfall intensified, blocking roads and disrupting communication networks, the tourists found themselves in a precarious situation. Having no obvious escape or shelter, they were in the complete control of the elements. That’s when the people of Ganderbal came and provided it not only in the form of physical protection but also by providing comfort from their hearts. They offered sustenance, hot beverages of chai, and the warmth of blankets to the ones without shelter, making sure that they would not be caught out in the weather.

But perhaps the most intriguing is that the villagers did not stop there. They filled the streets, shouting from loudspeakers that any tourist in trouble was welcome to come to their houses to escape. “Our homes are always open for you,” they declared.”We have food, blankets, and all the necessary things you need. Not only are you not ours in isolation, you are our guests, and we’ll see to it that you are looked after.”.The spontaneous emergence of generosity and kindness, in no small measure, in spite of the hardships that the inhabitants of Ganderbal endure on a daily basis. Living in an area at risk to both natural disasters and political instability, they have adapted, and in crisis they respond with resilience and empathy.

They have demonstrated a strong feeling of empathy and compassion by prioritizing the needs of the others over their needs.As soon as the visitors moved out for their homes, their image lingered behind, that of the hospitality and philanthropy of the people of Ganderbal. They had learned firsthand about Kashmiri hospitality, going beyond the barriers of culture and language to offer comfort and relief during times of crisis.Whenever the odds are looking so grim against us, the inhabitants of Ganderbal have proved to us that no matter how severe the circumstances are, humanity and compassion cannot be overruled. Their acts of selflessness as a goodwill act echo as a powerful illustration of empathy, giving, and communitarianism. Although we are attempting to understand the nature of the highly connected world at a global level, we have the privilege of witnessing some of the human stories from Ganderbal, where the most modest and altruistic acts of empathy can be priceless to the sufferers. (KNS)

SKIMS Ensures Uninterrupted Patient Services Amid Heavy Snowfall, Director Monitors Operations

SKIMS

 The SKIMS administration  ensured uninterrupted services to the patients at SKIMS and SKIMS MC amid the snowfall which severely affected major service areas.

Director SKIMS/ EOSG Prof. M Ashraf Ganie is closely monitoring the all service areas. He conducted an extensive tour today of major patient care areas both at SKIMS MC & Hospital and SKIMS. All supportive service areas under his direction are on alert to ensure smooth functioning of various services. He had a detailed meeting with all the heads of departments of the hospital administration and reviewed the overall functioning of the patient care areas.

Director SKIMS appreciated all the staff of the hospital who remained steadfast and provided much needed services to the patients despite inclement weather conditions. He added that SKIMS is always upfront in service of people and acknowledged the efforts of whole SKIMS administration for smooth functioning of the hospital.

Medical Superintendent SKIMS said that the Control SKIMS is functional 24×7 and available for any assistance.All service areas were functional including emergency areas, OPD’s and other patient care areas.  All supplies are in place and the staff was available in all patient care areas. The engineering wing is working in full swing and ensuring uninterrupted  services, the emergency link roads/ parking were cleared for a smooth vehicular movement, he added.
He further added that in case of any need or emergency general public can contact SKIMS Control Room for any assistance & guidance.(KNS).

Government Likely to Allocate 285 Crore for Constituency Development Fund of Legislators in The Upcoming Financial Year

Constituency Development Fund

The government is expected to allocate a budgetary provision of ?285 crore for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) of legislators in the upcoming financial year, commencing on April 1.

According to sources, the funds will be released as per the established guidelines to ensure seamless implementation of development projects across constituencies. 

Meanwhile, funds for the salaries of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have been disbursed under the existing framework.MLAs currently receive ?1.60 lakh per month, inclusive of salary and allowances. However, a revision in the remuneration structure is under consideration, and an increase is likely to be implemented in the near future. (KNS)

Flight Operations at Srinagar Airport Resume After Snowfall Disruption in Kashmir Valley

Flight Operations at Srinagar Airport

Flight operations at Srinagar Airport resumed on Sunday after being disrupted earlier in the day due to fresh snowfall in the Kashmir Valley.

The valley witnessed a blanket of snow as a new spell of winter weather gripped the region, impacting air traffic and daily life.

Director Srinagar Airport, Javed Anjum told Rising Kashmir that that snow-clearing operations were conducted on a war footing to make the runway operational. In the morning some flights were delayed and now operations have resumed after improvement in visibility, he said.

Director further said the runway was cleared in time, and with improved visibility, flights have started landing and taking off.

The snowfall, which began early in the morning, had temporarily halted air services, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Airlines coordinated with the airport authorities to reschedule flights, minimizing inconvenience to travelers.

The snowfall also affected road connectivity, with the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway temporarily closed for traffic. Authorities are working to restore road links while advising travelers to exercise caution.