Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Calls for Rationalization of Reservation Quota, Demands Justice for Students in Jammu and Kashmir

Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Calls

Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Monday said that the rationalisation of reservation quota should be ensured as per population proportion, and that he is not satisfied with the formation of the cabinet sub-committee, but satisfaction of students matters to him.

While addressing the gathering outside chief minister’s residence, Aga Ruhullah, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that there should be no discrimination in reservation policy, and the policy should be ensured as per the Supreme Court ruling or as per the population proportionJammu and Kashmir tourism ,He said that he had already assured the students that their grievances are genuine and he will do every possible thing to ensure justice is delivered.

“I had promised the students that I will protest in their favour and today we are here to fight for them. We will raise our voice in favour of students at every platform to get favourable results. I know the government has listened to you, and formed a cabinet sub-committee. But, I am not satisfied with it, and I would only be satisfied with students are satisfied,” he said.

“I don’t want any chaos, and I am not here to divide my party. I will go to every door to seek justice. But, if anyone wants to create chaos in J&K, I will also hit the streets to oppose them,” he said.

Ruhullah thanked PDP leaders, including MLA Pulwama Waheed Parra and Iltija Mufti, and Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) for extending their support to him.

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Wular Lake Freezes After Decades, Disrupting Fishermen and Locals in Kashmir

Wular Lake Freezes

Kashmir is grappling with a severe cold wave, causing parts of Wular Lake in north Kashmir to freeze—a rare sight not witnessed in over two decades. The freezing conditions have disrupted the lives of fishermen and locals reliant on the lake’s resources.

In Bandipora, temperatures have plummeted to record lows, dipping below minus seven degrees Celsius on December 20 and 21. Ghulam Nabi, a 45-year-old resident of Zurimaz village, shared, “I haven’t seen Wular Lake freeze like this in nearly 20 years. The last few winters didn’t bring anything close to this.”

Each morning, a thin layer of ice—about half an inch thick—forms from the banks of the lake, extending up to 20 feet. Fishermen are left waiting for the ice to melt or resort to breaking it to access the water beneath. “Most of us either wait till afternoon or use tools to carve out a path through the frozen surface,” Ghulam Nabi added.

On Sunday, the lake had been frozen for three consecutive days, significantly impacting local livelihoods. Those who depend on water chestnuts, a key produce of the lake, are also bearing the brunt. The chestnuts, harvested late in the season, are locked in ice, disrupting their collection and processing.

Residents of Saderkoot Payeen, another village near the lake, reported that parts of the water body fed by the Jhelum River and its tributaries had “thickly frozen.” Tahir Aziz, a 26-year-old local, said, “My parents tell me they haven’t seen the lake freeze like this for over two decades. If the cold persists, the freeze might last a month.”

Fishing, lotus stem harvesting, and chestnut collection have all come to a standstill due to the harsh conditions. Showkat Maqbool, an official from the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), confirmed that most parts of the lake were frozen, with exceptions being areas frequented by migratory birds.

“The ice hasn’t thawed for days now,” Maqbool noted, highlighting that the prolonged freeze is affecting movement and daily activities in the area. If the cold spell continues, the lake’s icy grip could linger much longer.

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To Oversee Emergency Services Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to Camp in Srinagar From Today

Omar Abdullah

As the Kashmir Valley endures a bone-chilling cold wave, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced today that he will remain in Srinagar for the next week to personally monitor the functioning of the Power Department and other essential services.
The Chief Minister, who attended the pre-Budget and GST Council meetings in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, conveyed his decision through a series of tweets, emphasising his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the people of the Valley during the severe cold spell.
The region is currently experiencing one of the harshest winters in recent years, with temperatures dipping to record-breaking lows. Srinagar recently recorded a frigid minus 8.5 degrees Celsius, marking the coldest December night in over five decades. The extreme weather has caused significant disruptions in water and electricity supply, exacerbating the struggles of residents.
In his tweets, the Chief Minister expressed his concern: “In light of the severe cold spell in the Kashmir Valley and the resulting difficulties with water and electricity supply, I have decided to cancel my forthcoming programs in Jammu and station myself in Srinagar for the next week to personally monitor the functioning of the Power Department and other important departments.”
Acknowledging the inconvenience his decision may cause to organizers in Jammu, he added: “I appreciate that cancelling my programs in Jammu will cause some inconvenience, and I regret the same. However, under the circumstances, this is the right course of action, and I will make it up to the people and organizations whose programs have been affected.”
The Chief Minister also shared that he is en route from Jaisalmer and will be in Srinagar by tomorrow morning: “I’m on my way back from Jaisalmer as I type and will be in Srinagar tomorrow morning.”

We are Committed to Address All Issues of people Specially Abled Community, Working to Increase Disability Pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 monthly: Sakina Itoo

Sakina Itooa

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, Education, Sakina Itoo, today remarked that the Government is committed to provide necessary resources and support to specially abled persons so that they lead an independent, quality and dignified life.

The Minister made these remarks during distribution of artificial limbs, callipers, clutches, tricycles and wheel chairs among specially abled persons at Brahman Sabha Parade here.

The event was organised by Shree Atam Vallabh Jain Clinic Jammu and sponsored by Rural Electrification Corporation in collaboration with Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayta Samiti Kota.

Addressing the gathering, Sakina Itoo emphasised the Government’s unwavering commitment towards welfare of the disabled community in order to make their lives dignified. “The present dispensation has always been determined to uplift and improve the quality of life of people with disabilities. We are committed towards providing them with necessary resources, equipments and support, so that they too can live a dignified life”, she asserted.

“The present Omar led Government is committed to address all issues of people especially the specially abled community. We are working on to increase the disability pension from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 3000 per month”, Sakeena maintained.

She added that this increase will alleviate the financial burden on families and provide them financial support.
The Minister, on the occasion, also highlighted the importance of inclusive growth and need to focus on marginalised communities, especially the disabled persons. She assured the gathering that the Government will continue to prioritize the needs of disabled community, with plans for providing them greater accessibility and support.

Sakina Itoo, in her address, also commended the NGO for this noble work. She assured them of Government’s continuous support and said that the issues raised by them will be addressed promptly. She advised them to organise awareness campaigns across the regions in order to educate people, especially the disabled persons about the rights and facilities available for disabled persons.

The Minister also interacted with the specially abled persons and assured them continuous support from the government.

General Secretary, Shree Atam Vallabh Jain Clinic Jammu, Pradeep Jain informed that 429 persons were screened in the camp while 123 hearing aids were given to the patients in addition to distribution of 104 artificial limbs, 73 callipers 22 artificial hands, 20 wheel chairs and 19 tricycle among the beneficiaries in the three day camp.

Founding Vice-Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University Dr. Raj Nehru Honored with a Grand Farewell 

Founding Vice-Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University Dr. Raj Nehru

The founding Vice-Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Dr. Raj Nehru, received an emotional and grand farewell. A magnificent ceremony was organized in his honor to celebrate his contributions as the university’s founding Vice-Chancellor.

He was presented with a ceremonial turban and shawl as a mark of respect. Teachers, staff, officials, and students adorned him with garlands and showered him with flowers. The event was graced by several prominent figures from the industrial sector, who made the farewell ceremony truly memorable.

Dr. Raj Nehru took charge as the founding Vice-Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University in 2017. During his tenure, the university not only became India’s first government skill university but also secured the second position in the NIRF national rankings.

Additionally, it earned over a dozen prestigious national and international awards. Dr. Nehru has now been appointed as the OSD to the Chief Minister of Haryana.

Upon his arrival at the university campus, Dr. Nehru received a grand welcome. An electric vehicle, created from scrap under his guidance, was decorated with flowers for the occasion. As his convoy proceeded to the ceremony venue, students lined the route, showering it with flowers and expressing their gratitude with folded hands. Dr. Nehru was accompanied by his wife, Sunaina Nehru, daughter Oshin, and son Aryan.

When the flower-adorned electric vehicle reached the venue, the atmosphere turned emotional. Along with the university community, former sarpanch of Dudhola village, Sunder Singh, and other villagers joined in honoring Dr. Nehru. He was presented with a garland made of currency notes, which he graciously donated for the education of fourth-class employees’ children and for the university’s agricultural farm.

During his farewell address, Dr. Nehru expressed his gratitude to the entire team, stating that achieving the university’s milestones was not easy but was possible due to the collective efforts of everyone involved.

He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving long-term goals. Reflecting on his tenure, he said he operated the university with the utmost integrity and transparency, ensuring merit-based recruitments and the creation of a world-class campus.

He highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including the establishment of India’s first innovative skill school and a world-class center of excellence, predicting significant outcomes in the future. He also noted the integration of on-the-job training into the skill education model, which has now become a benchmark for institutions nationwide. He expressed pride in how the university has inspired renowned educational institutions globally to adopt its model.

Dr. Nehru expressed special gratitude to the village Dudhola for their unwavering support, without which the university would not have been possible. Concluding his speech, he humbly apologized for any shortcomings during his tenure, expressing his deep emotional connection to the university, which he said would remain in his heart forever.

University Registrar, Prof. Jyoti Rana, honored Dr. Nehru on behalf of the university, calling him the architect of a national model for skill education. She commended his tireless efforts in establishing the university and ensuring its credibility with bodies like UGC and NAAC, a significant achievement.

Prof. R.S. Rathore, Dean of Academics, praised Dr. Nehru for creating an ecosystem for skill education in the country and for his transformative contributions to education and society. He also highlighted Dr. Nehru’s role in preserving and promoting local art forms, such as the folk art of Banchari.

Dr. Sujata Shahi, Vice-Chancellor of IILM; Dharm Raksheet, HR Head of Hero MotoCorp; Bhavna Chauhan, HR Head of Autolek; Sanjeev Sharma, GM of Metabhi Lens; Vinod Bhati, Director of Metro Lab; and Rekha Bhardwaj, Assistant Director of HIPA, were among the dignitaries who honored Dr. Nehru. They praised his achievements and extended their best wishes for his new role.

Two Labourers Parvaiz Khan and Mohd Yousuf Khan from Lalaroos Kupwara Dies Due to Suffocation in Srinagar

Dead

Two labourers died, reportedly due to suffocation in Qamarwari area of central Kashmir’s Srinagar district officals said.

An offical told GNS said that two labourers were found in an unconcious state by the locals inside there rented room at Qamarwari. Immediately they were removed to nearby hospital unfortunately they succumbs to their injuries.

The deceased labourers identified as Parvaiz Khan and Mohd Yousuf Khan both residents of Kalaroos Kupwara.A police offical also confirmed to GNS said that a case has been registered in this regard for further investigations. (GNS)

Good News for IAS and KAS Aspirants, IAS and KAS Online Coaching Likely Soon in Kupwara: Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Ayushi Sudan

Ayushi Sudan

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan on Saturday announced plans to introduce online coaching facilities for IAS and KAS aspirants at district headquarters.

She said the administration is committed to empowering local students who aspire to excel in civil service examinations but face financial and logistical constraints.

“We are actively considering some online coaching for IAS and KAS, starting at the district headquarters and later extending it to block or subdivision headquarters. Hopefully, aspirants will hear about it in the near future,” DC Sudan stated.

The initiative comes as a ray of hope for aspirants in Kupwara, Handwara and nearby areas. A few years ago, a similar coaching setup at Government Degree College Handwara had proven successful, helping many students achieve their goals. However, the absence of such facilities in recent years has left many aspirants struggling, especially those unable to afford coaching in Srinagar.

Several students voiced their optimism about the potential coaching program. “Such an initiative will be a game-changer for students like us who cannot travel to Srinagar. It will give us a fair chance to prepare for these exams,” said Sajid Ahmad, a postgraduate student.

Another student, Marayam Manzoor, shared similar sentiments. “It’s heartening to see the administration considering our needs. This move will bridge the gap for students from remote areas like ours,” she remarked.

Parents, too, have welcomed the proposal. “Our children deserve equal opportunities. Bringing coaching facilities closer to home will encourage more youth to dream big,” said Abdul Rashid, a resident of Braripora, Handwara.

The aspirants are hopeful that this initiative will materialize soon, making high-quality civil services coaching accessible to all. The locals laud this proactive step by the district administration and anticipate more such initiatives in the future.

All India Professionals’ Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone as Head of Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir

Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone

The All India Professionals’ Congress (AIPC) announces the appointment of Tanveer Lone as the head of the Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir. This significant appointment reaffirms AIPC’s commitment to enhancing leadership and professional engagement in the UT .

Tanveer Lone is a highly motivated and passionate individual , a postgraduate in Economics and Public Administration. Lone, who hails from Tangmarg, a popular tourist destination, has a proven track record of mentoring many young people in sports and teaching snowboarding to over 100 underprivileged children.

AIPC Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh AIPC National Sports vertical Head made the appointment, reflecting AIPC’s dedication to empowering professionals and ensuring impactful leadership across diverse sectors. Sanjay Sapru, J&K head of AIPC, expressed gratitude to Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh for the appointment.

“I’m deeply thankful for recognizing the potential of our professionals in Jammu and Kashmir and for this strategic appointment,” said Sanjay Sapru. “Tanveer Lone brings immense expertise and dedication, driving AIPC’s vision forward and strengthening our professional community in the important Sports vertical.”

This development aligns with AIPC’s expansion nationwide, aiming to build a robust network of skilled individuals contributing to public discourse and policy. Under Chairman Praveen Chakravarty’s guidance, AIPC remains a steadfast platform for professionals to engage meaningfully in public life and policy-making processes.

The newly appointed head is expected to take up his role with immediate effect, spearheading initiatives within the Sports vertical to create impactful change in Jammu Kashmir . The All India Professionals’ Congress reaffirms its dedication to supporting professionals and fostering leadership that contributes to societal growth and development.

Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir Urges Drivers to Take Precautions Amid Subzero Temperatures

RTO Kashmir

With Kashmir experiencing subzero temperatures, the Regional Transport Officer Kashmir has issued an important traffic advisory to ensure the safety of drivers and bikers on icy and foggy roads.

As per the advisory, the RTO Kashmir, Qazi Irfan has recommended reducing unnecessary travel, especially in the early mornings and late evenings when temperatures are at their lowest. Travelers should also check weather forecasts and traffic updates before setting out and allow extra time to navigate slippery roads.

Drivers are advised to ensure their vehicles have winter or all-season tires for better grip, maintain the right anti-freeze levels in the coolant system, and check the condition of the battery since cold weather can reduce its efficiency.

The advisory also suggests checking that headlights and wipers are working properly and keeping the fuel tank at least half full to prevent freezing.

Motorists are urged to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and drive smoothly to avoid skidding. In foggy conditions, low-beam headlights should be used, and overtaking should be avoided. Bikers are advised to wear thermal clothing and helmets with anti-fog visors.

If a vehicle skids, drivers should steer gently in the direction of the skid and avoid slamming the brakes.

The advisory highlights the importance of carrying an emergency kit with items like first-aid supplies, a flashlight with extra batteries, a thermal blanket, non-perishable food and water, and an ice scraper with de-icing spray.

For any emergencies, motorists can contact the following numbers: 7780917148, 9765079102, or the traffic department at 103.

The RTO also reminded drivers to stay focused and avoid using mobile phones while driving. “Safety comes first – stay alert and prepared during these challenging weather conditions,” the advisory concludes.

Fire Erupts in Bohlagpora Area of Soura Srinagar, Spread Across Several Houses

Fire Erupts in Bohlagpora

A late-night blaze broke out in the Bohlagpora area of Soura area of Srinagar—involving two to three residential houses, officials said.

An official said that a late-night fire incident occurred in Bohlagpora, Soura, Srinagar, involving about two to three houses. Officials from the Fire and Emergency Department, along with locals and police, are on the job.

He said the fire is continuing in the area and likely started from the first house before spreading to two more. He added that Fire and Emergency Department officials, along with police and locals, are working to douse the flames.

In another incident of fire in Srinagar city, a residential house caught fire in the upper portion of Shalimar, and details about the damage are awaited—(KNO)