Security forces successfully defused a suspected explosive device discovered in a bag near the forest office along the Handwara-Baramulla highway in Langate on Wednesday.
Officials told KNS, that the suspicious bag was spotted by locals, who promptly alerted the authorities.A bomb disposal squad was dispatched to the scene and safely defused the device. (KNS)
Three residential houses were completely gutted in a massive overnight blaze, rendering four families homeless in Nagam village of Damhal Hajipora in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials said Wednesday.
An official said that the fire broke out from a residential house and later spread to two others, damaging three houses where four families were residing, along with two cow sheds.
He said that fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the spot; however, the houses were reduced to ashes before the fire was brought under control.
“The flames took everything we had in minutes. In this cold, we are left with nothing but the hope of support from our government,” said a distraught local resident—(KNO)
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired the State Executive Committee (SEC) meeting for the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) today, approving the inclusion of five more local disasters into the existing list as per SDRF norms.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Principal Secretary of Home and DMRR&R, Principal Secretary of Finance, ADGP L&O, Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, and Secretary Revenue. Deputy Commissioners participated through video conferencing.
During the high-level discussions, the SEC unanimously agreed to add the following local disasters to the notified SDRF list:
These additions aim to ensure affected individuals receive benefits under SDRF norms and guidelines, offering much-needed relief to disaster victims.
The SEC also approved the release of over Rs 6 crore to Deputy Commissioners in Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kupwara, Srinagar, Rajouri, and Ramban for addressing recent disasters in these districts. Additionally, Rs 6.5 crore was sanctioned for the modernisation of the Home Guard, Civil Defence, and SDRF forces. This allocation will fund advanced equipment such as drones, remote-controlled lifebuoys, fire entry suits, power descenders, and battery-operated cutter-spreaders.
Further agenda approvals included:
The Chief Secretary reviewed disaster preparedness across districts, noting the suggestions put forward by Deputy Commissioners. Principal Secretary of the DMRR&R Department, Chandraker Bharti, provided an overview of the department’s activities during the year and emphasised the importance of the approved initiatives for enhancing the Union Territory’s disaster management capacity.
This move reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening disaster resilience and ensuring timely assistance to affected communities.
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Minister for Social Welfare Sakina Masood Itto would head a three-member cabinet-sub- committee (CSC) set-up by National Conference-led government to examine grievances of youth regarding reservation rules.
According to an order issued by the General Administration Department(GAD), the CSC headed by Sakina Masood Itto comprises of Javed Rana(Minister for Public Health Engineering) and Satish Sharma( Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs.
The formal order regarding the constitution of CSC has been issued nearly 18 days after the cabinet approved it.
According to the order, the CSC will examine the grievances projected by a section of aspirants for various posts regarding reservation rules, in consultation with all stakeholders.
The CSC will be serviced by the Social Welfare Department and shall submit its report to the council of ministers, which is empowered to make amendments in reservation rules.
Interestingly, the government has not set any timeframe for submission of the report by the CSC—(KNO)
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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday described the issue of Rohingyas in Jammu and Kashmir as a humanitarian concern, urging the Government of India (GoI) to decide on their future.
Speaking to reporters after attending a function in Jammu, Omar stated, “If the GoI can send them (Rohingyas) back, it should. If not, they cannot be left to die from hunger or suffer in the cold.”
He emphasised that the GoI must clarify the course of action regarding the Rohingyas residing in J&K. “As long as they are here, they must be cared for. We cannot let them perish due to hunger or cold,” he added. Omar stressed that while the Rohingyas were not brought to J&K by the local government, they must be treated with dignity and humanity. “We cannot treat them as animals; they must be treated as humans,” he said.
On the issue of Statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, Omar reiterated his demand for its restoration. “We want Statehood, a promise made by the central government multiple times, including in Parliament,” he stated, emphasising that his government would continue to press for the return of Statehood.
Regarding the situation in Bangladesh, where Hindus are reportedly being targeted, Omar mentioned the existing tensions between India and Bangladesh. He referred to talks being held between India’s Foreign Secretary and Bangladesh, quoting former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee: “We can’t change our neighbours, and we must maintain good relations with them.”
A fire broke out in the MLA hostel at Srinagar on Tuesday.Visuals showed thick fumes of black smoke emanating from the building. Firefighters reached on the spot to douse the fire upon receiving information.Operations on the same are underway.
More details awaited. (ANI)
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A 37-year-old man, Abdul Hameed Sofi, a resident of Arampora, Kupwara, tragically passed away at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara on Tuesday morning while as the family has alleged medical negligence.
Sofi, a father of three, was admitted to the hospital earlier in the day, complaining of arm pain and discomfort.Family members, according to the news agency—KNO said that doctors initially described his condition as stable after conducting preliminary tests. However, the patient later died at the hospital.
Relatives alleged that a staff member, who they claimed was a compounder rather than a doctor, dismissed the patient’s condition as a mere act of drama. They also accused the hospital staff of withholding an ECG report that could shed light on the events, leading to Sofi’s death.
“There was no qualified doctor present during the critical moments. If there were none available, they should have asked us to wait,” a family member stated, adding that CCTV footage from the hospital could verify their claims.
The hospital authorities, however, refuted the allegations. Medical Superintendent Dr. Aijaz Ahmed Bhat clarified that Sofi was admitted at 6:45 am with chest discomfort and was immediately attended by a doctor on duty. An ECG test was conducted, which reportedly appeared normal, and the patient was kept under observation.
“After administering an injection and a tablet, the patient suddenly collapsed. Despite resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived,” Dr. Aijaz explained, adding that further tests, including TropT, were negative.
The allegations of mishandling and unavailability of doctors were investigated by the police and local Tehsildar. Preliminary findings based on CCTV footage suggested that the patient was attended by both doctors and paramedical staff, dismissing claims of negligence.
However, the hospital administration has promised a thorough investigation. “A high-level committee will be formed to probe the family’s allegations, and a detailed report will be submitted within two to three days,” Dr. Aijaz assured—(KNO)
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The Wildlife Department of Protection (Wetland Division) has launched a series of raids in Srinagar following viral social media videos allegedly showing individuals involved in illegal poaching activities at Wular Lake. The videos, which depicted individuals carrying firearms, raised concerns about potential wildlife hunting in the region.
An official said that acting swiftly, the department conducted coordinated raids during the early hours of December 10 at various locations, targeting suspects believed to be linked to the illegal activities of Pouching. Preliminary reports indicate that the raids may result in the confiscation of firearms and the apprehension of individuals involved, he said.
Authorities have assured the public of strict action against those violating wildlife protection laws.
Further details regarding the investigation and outcomes of the raids are awaited. The department has reiterated its call for public cooperation in reporting illegal activities that endanger the region’s rich biodiversity, He added.
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The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Monday ordered transfer of 22 JKAS officers in the interest of administration with immediate effect.
As per the govt order issued by General Administration Department, Mehmood Ahmad Shah, JKAS, Director, Handloom and Handicraft, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Managing Director, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited.
Nisar Ahmad Wani, JKAS, awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been posted as Member, J&K Special Tribunal (Srinagar Bench).
Dr. Ghulam Nabi ltoo, JKAS, Mission Director, Jal Jeevan Mission, has been transferred and posted as Director, School Education, Kashmir.
Gulzar Ahmad Dar, JKAS, Special Secretary to the Government, Housing and Urban Development Department, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary to the Government, School Education Department.
Mussarat-ul-Islam, JKAS, Managing Director, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited, has been transferred and posted as Director, Handloom and Handicraft, Kashmir.
Vikas Gupta, JKAS, Special Secretary to the Government, Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, has been transferred and posted as Director, Tourism, Jammu.
Ms, Kanta Devi, JKAS, Special Secretary to the Government, School Education Department, has been transferred and posted as Regional Director, Survey and Land Records (ex-officio Settlement Officer), Jammu.
Syed Qamar Sajad, JKAS, Additional District Development Commissioner, Baramulla, has been transferred and posted as Managing Director, J&K Cable Car Corporation.
Khurshid Ahmad Shah, JKAS, Special Secretary to the Government, Jal Shakti Department, has been transferred and posted as Mission Director, Jal Jeevan Mission.
Ms Anju Gupta, JKAS, Regional Director, Survey and Land Records (ex-officio Settlement Officer), Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary to the Government, Housing and Urban Development Department.
Tassaduq Hussain Mir, JKAS, Director, School Education, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary to the Government, ARI and Trainings Department.
Parveez Ahmad Raina, JKAS, Member, J&K Special Tribunal (Srinagar Bench), has been transferred and posted as Additional Commissioner, State Taxes (Administration & Enforcement), Kashmir, against an available vacancy.
Soheel Noor Shah, JKAS, Additional Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department, has been transferred and posted as Additional Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment.
Masarat Hashim, JKAS, Programme Officer, ICDS Project, Pulwama, has been transferred and posted as Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Development Authority, Pahalgam.
Qazi Irfan Rasool Zargar, JKAS, Registrar-cum-Controller of Examinations, SKIMS, Soura, Srinagar, has been transferred and posted as Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir.
Mohammad Aslam, JKAS, loint Director, Information, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Registrar-cum-Controller of Examinations, SKIMS, Soura, Srinagar.
Vivek Modi, JKAS, Director, Land Management, Jammu Development Authority, has been transferred and posted as Additional Secretary to the Government, Floriculture, Parks and Gardens Department. Tariq Hussain, JKAS, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Development Authority, Pahalgam, has been transferred and posted as Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Development Authority, Gulmarg.
Garbi Rashid, JKAS, Additional Secretary to the Government, Floriculture, Parks and Gardens Department, has been transferred and posted as Director, Land Management, Jammu Development Authority.
Syed Shahnawaz, JKAS, Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Joint Director, Information, Kashmir.
Meanwhile, as per a separate order, Bhawani Rakwal, JKAS, Transport Commissioner, J&K, has been transferred and shall await further orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department.
Vishesh Paul Mahajan, JKAS, under orders of transfer as Director, Tourism, Jammu, in terms of Government Order No. 2014-JK(GAD) of 2024 dated 0t.t2.2024, has been posted as Transport Commissioner, J&K.
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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting local industries in overcoming the challenges they are currently facing.
Speaking at an event organized by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) at its office, the Chief Minister was felicitated for assuming office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister of Forest, Ecology and Environment Javed Ahmad Rana, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, JCCI President Arun Gupta, Vice President and General Secretary of JCCI, former presidents, and other members. Senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Principal Secretary Finance, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce, and Director Industries & Commerce Jammu, were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is no shortage of issues. If I were to claim that these problems have only emerged in the past decade, it would be misleading. These challenges are not new, nor are they solely the result of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. However, the UT transition has undoubtedly compounded these issues,” he stated.
Highlighting the geographical constraints of the region, the Chief Minister said, “Several challenges stem from our location. Jammu and Kashmir is situated in a corner of the country. Our market is very small, and our raw material base is limited. An industry that relies on importing raw materials and exporting finished products cannot sustain itself without governmental support.”
Reiterating his government’s responsibility, he added, “When we hold your hand and provide support, it is not a reflection of your helplessness or weakness. It is our responsibility, and we will fulfill it.”
On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasized the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region.
“Over a crore pilgrims visit Jammu for Mata Vaishno Devi every year. If we can successfully divert even 15% of them to local tourist destinations, we would gain 15 lakh tourists immediately. We have managed the entire tourism economy of Kashmir with just 15 lakh tourists,” he remarked.
He stressed the need to showcase Jammu’s unique cultural heritage.
“Our Dogra culture-this is treasure unique to Jammu. Our traditions, food, and specialties are unmatched and must be leveraged as key selling points for tourism.”
On the resumption of the now-defunct Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah highlighted its positive impact on Jammu’s vibrancy.
“The hallmark of Jammu city was the biannual Darbar Move. For six months, people from Srinagar would work here, creating a lively environment. It fostered interaction between people from both sides of the mountains, whether at Wave Mall, Residency Road, or Gole Market. I assure you that we will resume the Darbar Move in the future. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from doing so this time,” he said.
Discussing the impact of industrial packages, he cautioned against their transient nature. “Industries attracted solely by packages stay only as long as the incentives last. Once the benefits end, they pack up and leave. The industries that endure are those rooted in this land, run by people who are inherently connected to it,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges related to lease agreements for institutions and businesses.
“Today, schools on leased land are being asked to produce 10-year leases, failing which their registration will not be renewed. Similarly, hotels on leased land cannot even make minor repairs due to the absence of valid leases. These issues need immediate attention,” he added.
Omar Abdullah, in his conclusion, assured his government’s commitment to addressing industrial concerns.
“Whatever issues you want us to raise with the Finance Minister, please provide me with a detailed note. We will take them up with the Government of India and work toward tangible solutions,” he said.
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