News - NEWS Of KASHMIR

EPG Celebrates World Environment Day 2024 with Grand Event at Greenland Paramedical & Nursing College

June 6, 2024June 6, 2024 by NOK Desk

The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) marked World Environment Day 2024 with grandeur at Greenland Paramedical & Nursing College in Hawal. The significant event drew a large number of students and reputed environmentalists from various districts, highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation and sustainable living.

The celebration saw an impressive turnout, showcasing collective enthusiasm for environmental preservation. Noted social and environmental activist Zareef Ahmad Zareef graced the event as the Chief Guest. EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi conducted the event with commendable poise, ensuring a seamless flow of activities and discussions.

Prominent civil society members and environmental activists attended the event, underlining the widespread support for environmental issues in the region. Notable attendees included Javed Ahmad Tenga, President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI); Nadeem Qadri, EPG co-founder & Amicus Curiae Advocate; Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, RTI & social activist; and other prominent figures from the valley.

Students from various schools across different districts made impressive presentations on the need to conserve natural resources for a better future. Chief Guest Zareef Ahmad Zareef delivered an inspiring address, urging students to actively engage in conserving natural resources. He highlighted Kashmir’s abundant natural wealth, currently threatened by human greed and mismanagement, and called on young minds to become stewards of the environment.

Following the presentations, Zareef Ahmad Zareef, along with EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi and other EPG members, felicitated the speakers and students, appreciating their contributions and enthusiasm for environmental conservation.

A significant outcome of the event was the adoption of a resolution proposed by Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, emphasizing the importance of segregating kitchen waste, composting it, and stopping the use of polythene. The resolution was unanimously accepted, marking a commitment towards more sustainable living practices.

The event underscored the crucial role of local artisans and civil society in promoting environmental conservation. By supporting initiatives like those undertaken by EPG, the community can work towards preserving Kashmir’s rich natural heritage. The involvement of diverse stakeholders, from students to seasoned activists, illustrates collective responsibility towards the environment.

The participation of students from various educational institutions was a highlight of the event. These young minds presented innovative ideas and solutions for environmental challenges, showcasing their potential as future leaders in environmental conservation. Educational institutions play a critical role in shaping these future leaders by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle environmental issues effectively.

Environmental activism is crucial in today’s context, where natural resources are under severe threat. Activists like Zareef Ahmad Zareef and organizations like EPG are essential in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and mobilizing communities to take action. Their efforts ensure that environmental conservation remains a priority in the region.

The celebration of World Environment Day 2024 by EPG is a beacon of hope for the future of environmental conservation in Kashmir. By engaging diverse stakeholders and promoting sustainable practices, EPG is paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious society. The commitment shown by students, activists, and community members during the event is a positive indicator of the region’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage.

News

Kashmir Valley Experiences Light Showers, Jammu Division Warms Up

June 7, 2024June 5, 2024 by NOK Desk

Here’s a concise summary of the weather conditions in the Kashmir Valley and Jammu division:

Rainfall and Thunderstorms:
- Parts of the Kashmir Valley experienced light showers.
- The meteorological department forecasts scattered light rain and thunders with gusty winds until June 7.
- Thunder and lightning may accompany the rain during this period.
- Farmers are advised to suspend farm operations until June 6.
Temperature Trends:
- Srinagar recorded a low of 12.6°C (0.8°C below normal) compared to the previous night’s 14.8°C.
- Qazigund, the gateway town of Kashmir, had a minimum temperature of 11.0°C (1.0°C below normal).
- Pahalgam, a famous resort in south Kashmir, saw a low of 7.5°C (0.5°C above normal).
- Kokernag, also in south Kashmir, recorded 9.5°C (2.7°C below normal).
- Kupwara town’s minimum temperature was 11.3°C (below normal by 0.4°C).
- Gulmarg, the renowned skiing resort in north Kashmir, had a minimum of 4.6°C (below normal by 4.1°C).
- Jammu experienced a low of 30.5°C (above normal by 4.8°C).
- Other towns like Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah also had varying temperatures.

Er Rashid Leads in Baramulla Lok Sabha Constituency

June 4, 2024 by NOK Desk

As vote counting for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls continues, early results show the National Conference (NC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) each leading in two seats in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to data from the Chief Election Officer J&K, the NC is ahead in the Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri seats, while the BJP leads in Jammu and Udhampur.

Independent candidate Er Rashid is leading in the Baramulla constituency against NC vice-president Omar Abdullah, with People’s Conference chairman Sajad Lone in third place.

In the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, NC’s Main Altaf is leading against People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti, while NC’s Aga Ruhullah is leading against PDP’s Waheed Para.

Union minister Dr. Jitendra Singh is leading against Congress’ Choudhary Lal Singh in Jammu, and BJP’s Jugal Kishore is ahead of Congress’ Raman Bhalla in the Jammu constituency.

News

Firing Stops in Pulwama Encounter, Search Operations Continue

June 3, 2024 by NOK Desk

The exchange of fire between militants and security forces has ceased at the encounter site in Nehama, located in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.

According to reports, the house where the militants were hiding caught fire during the gunfight. Despite the cessation of firing, the search operation at the scene is ongoing. Earlier, the encounter began after security forces received information about the presence of militants in the area. As the search party approached the suspected location, the militants opened fire, leading to the encounter.

It is believed that Riyaz Dar, the longest-surviving militant commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), along with his associates, is trapped at the site.

News

J&K Bank Facilitates Swift Settlement of Insurance Claims for Deceased Borrowers

June 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

In a significant relief initiative, J&K Bank has facilitated the swift settlement of Met Loan & Life Suraksha (MLLS) insurance claims for its deceased borrowers.

The claims, amounting to Rs 7.52 crore, have been disbursed to 168 families belonging to the Jammu zone, alleviating their financial burden during a time of grief.

A symbolic cheque for Rs 7.52 crore, representing the total amount handed over to the nominees and legal heirs of the deceased customers, was displayed by the Bank’s Cluster Heads (Jammu), Suresh Chowdhury and Aneeta Nehru alongside Zonal Head (Credit Life – PNB Met Life) Irfan Ali Zargar. The event was also attended by senior officials of the Bank and its Insurance partner.

Expressing their gratitude, the claimants thanked J&K Bank and its insurance partner, PNB Met Life, for their prompt action and support. One of the claimants stated, “We are thankful to the Bank for covering these loans under insurance and appreciate their support in timely settlement of the claims. We are also grateful to PNB Met Life for coming to our rescue and relieving us from the difficult burden of growing liabilities.”

Reiterating the Bank’s commitment to providing comprehensive financial solutions that ensure the security and well-being of its customers and their families, both the cluster heads emphasized the importance of loan insurance.

Cluster Head -1 (Jammu) Suresh Chowdhury said, “With a single-premium option along with the bank funding available for the customers, we are able to safeguard the families of borrowers and the interests of our institution in case of such unforeseen eventualities,” while Cluster Head-2 (Jammu) Aneeta Nehru added, “We have always been counseling our borrowers to get their loans insured for the future well-being of their own families.”

While reminding the customers of the goodwill of J&K Bank, Zonal Head (Credit Life – PNB Met Life) Irfan Ali Zargar said, “We can never compensate for the emotional loss of life, but by promoting good insurance products, we can always support the bereaved families and relieve them of the huge financial burden in case of such eventualities.”

News

J&K Police Crack Down on Exploitative Practices in Sonamarg

June 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

Under the direction of SSP Ganderbal Sandeep Gupta-IPS, the J&K Police District Ganderbal, along with Traffic Police, MVD, and Tourism Police, has initiated a series of measures to protect public safety and prevent exploitation. This initiative targets brokers, pony porters, and drivers who cheat and overcharge tourists in Sonamarg.

As part of these preventive actions, police have taken stringent measures against brokers, drivers, and pony porters. Around 32 individuals were detained under preventive penal sections, and 31 vehicles were seized for violations.

To further ensure road safety, the Traffic Police unit in Ganderbal has collected Rs. 445,100 in fines from traffic violators. They issued 2,126 traffic challans and seized six vehicles on the spot. Additionally, the ARTO Ganderbal suspended 71 licenses and 46 permits for overcharging tourists. The Tourism Police, with the assistance of District Police, recovered fines totaling 2 lakh rupees from violators in Sonamarg.

The J&K Police District Ganderbal is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the public and will continue to conduct stringent operations against brokers, traffic violators, and reckless drivers. Violators and brokers are strictly warned to cease their unscrupulous practices, or they will face legal consequences.

News

Tragic Drowning: 11-Year-Old Boy Dies in Irrigation Canal in Ganderbal, Kashmir

June 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

In a heart-wrenching incident, an 11-year-old boy drowned in an irrigation canal in the Thune area of Kangan in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Sunday, officials reported.

An official informed Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the boy, identified as Asif Ahmad Thekray, son of Mumtaz Ahmad Thekray from Thune Kangan, accidentally slipped into the canal. Following the accident, a rescue operation was immediately launched.

Despite the prompt efforts to save him, Asif was retrieved from the canal and rushed to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kangan. Tragically, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The community has been deeply shaken by this incident, and local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution around irrigation canals to prevent such tragedies in the future.

News

Ganderbal Police Cyber Cell Cracks Down on Online Scams and Recovers Stolen Property

June 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

Ganderbal Police Cyber Cell Cracks Down on Online Scams and Recovers Stolen Property

In a significant breakthrough, the Cyber Cell of Ganderbal Police has successfully resolved multiple online money scam cases, recovering substantial amounts of money and tracing missing smartphones.

Under the direction of SSP Ganderbal Sandeep Gupta-IPS, the unit has put on hold Rs. 6,20,000 in fraudulent transactions and refunded Rs. 39,900 to the victims’ accounts. Additionally, the Cyber Cell has traced and recovered 16 missing or lost smartphones worth lakhs of rupees, and restored six hacked social media accounts on Facebook and WhatsApp.

Addressing the media in Ganderbal, SSP Sandeep Gupta noted that since its establishment on February 21, 2024, the Cyber Cell Ganderbal has been actively addressing grievances reported by the public both online through the Cyber Crime Portal and offline. The unit’s prompt and effective response to financial and social media frauds has earned widespread appreciation.

The Cyber Cell comprises trained officials from both the Executive Police and Telecom sectors. They specialize in tackling various financial frauds, including KYC update scams, OLX frauds, pending electricity bill frauds, investment-related scams, and fraudulent loan applications, as well as social media blackmailing.

The J&K Police District Ganderbal has urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid sharing sensitive personal information such as bank details, account numbers, and OTPs. The swift and efficient actions of the Cyber Cell Ganderbal highlight the importance of community awareness and proactive policing in combating cybercrime.

News

Elderly Man Killed in Vehicle Accident in Srinagar’s Barbar Shah Area

June 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

An elderly man tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle in the Barbar Shah area of central Kashmir’s district, Srinagar, officials confirmed on Saturday.According to an official statement, the incident occurred when the elderly man was hit by a vehicle in Barbar Shah, resulting in fatal injuries.

The victim was later identified as Imtiyaz Ahmad Shah, son of Gulam Ahmad Shah, and a resident of Barbar Shah, Srinagar.Police have initiated an investigation into the matter to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

News

Temperature Fluctuations and Weather Outlook Across Jammu and Kashmir

October 21, 2024June 1, 2024 by NOK Desk

In the midst of forecasts predicting isolated light rain and thunderstorms over Kashmir and the Pirpanjal region, coupled with hot and dry conditions prevailing in the plains of the Jammu division, the night temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a rise on Saturday.

According to an official from the meteorological department, Srinagar saw a low of 15.0°C compared to 13.4°C the previous night, marking a 2.5°C increase above the seasonal norm for the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir at this time of the year.

Qazigund registered a minimum temperature of 12.0°C, up from 10.0°C the previous night, which was 0.9°C above the normal for this time of year in the gateway town of Kashmir.

Pahalgam, the renowned resort in south Kashmir, recorded a low of 8.4°C, showing a rise from 5.4°C the previous night, indicating a deviation of 1.8°C above normal.

Similarly, Kokernag, also situated in south Kashmir, noted a minimum temperature of 11.2°C compared to 9.3°C, just slightly above the normal range.

In Kupwara town, the minimum temperature rose to 11.7°C from 10.7°C, marking a deviation of 0.7°C above normal.

However, Gulmarg, the famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, recorded a minimum of 6.0°C, down from 7.2°C the previous night, indicating a deviation of 1.6°C below normal.

Meanwhile, in Jammu, the temperature recorded a low of 30.1°C compared to 28.5°C the previous night, marking a notable 4.6°C above normal for the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

Other regions like Banihal recorded a low of 16.2°C, Batote 17.9°C, and Bhaderwah 12.2°C.

Regarding the forecast, the official mentioned that isolated light rain and thunderstorms are expected, accompanied by gusty winds in some areas. From June 3-4, generally dry weather is anticipated across Jammu and Kashmir.

From June 5-7, generally cloudy weather with intermittent light to moderate rain and thunderstorms is likely in many places, with gusty winds at a few locations. From June 8-9, partly to generally cloudy conditions are expected.

Additionally, the official highlighted the anticipation of generally hot and dry weather with a heat wave over the plains of the Jammu Division during June 2-4. However, there is no prediction of a heatwave over the Kashmir Division in the next eight days.