“Excitement Builds as Kupwara Prepares for Winter Cricket Championship”

Kupwara, Nov 24 (KNS): The Department of Youth Services & Sports in collaboration with the District Administration of Kupwara announces the eagerly awaited Winter Cricket Championship. 
According to a statement, the championship, scheduled to follow T20 patterns, will take place at Galizoo Stadium Kupwara, Sports Stadium Pandithpora, Cricket Stadium Haqanlabad Punzwa, and Sports Stadium Chamkoot Tangdar.
Interested teams are invited to register at their respective Zonal Physical Education Offices by the 28th of November 2023. It is crucial to fulfill all codal formalities for successful registration, and no forms or teams will be entertained after the specified deadline. 


Registration forms are readily available during working hours at all Zonal Physical Education Offices in the district. The guidelines are included that the tournament will follow a knockout format. Matches will adhere to the T20 pattern. Each team should comprise players from the respective Panchayat Halqa/Municipality wards, allowing only one team per Panchayat/Municipality Halqa.
Proper attire is mandatory for participation. Participants’ age should not exceed 30 years as of December 31, 2023. Teams are required to bring their own sports kit. Cricket balls will be provided by the department. Umpire decisions will be final. Cash prizes await the winner and runners-up teams. Outstanding performers throughout the tournament will receive awards. 
The Man of the Match for each competition will be felicitated. Semifinals and Finals are scheduled to take place at Galizoo Stadium Kupwara. Two matches per day will be played at designated venues, contingent on favorable conditions.
Cricket enthusiasts are encouraged to seize this opportunity, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship in the upcoming Winter Cricket Championship.
Cricket enthusiasts and supporters alike are encouraged to mark their calendars for this exciting event, as the Winter Cricket Championship promises not only intense cricketing action but also an opportunity to celebrate local talent and sportsmanship within District Kupwara.(KNS).

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SHOCKING: After 13 Years of Silence, Kalakote Villages Rocked by Gunfire – Residents in PANIC as Encounter Unfolds!

indian army

Residents of Kalakote villages in Rajouri district were startled by the sound of gunfire after a hiatus of around thirteen years, as an encounter unfolded between security forces and terrorists on Wednesday morning.

The skirmish erupted following a Cordon and Search Operation launched by security forces in the Baaji Maal area of Kalakote. Solki, Baaji Maal, Brevi, Keri, and Jabbar villages, forming this region, witnessed a firefight, marking the first encounter in approximately thirteen years.

According to locals, the last encounter in the area occurred in 2010, and since then, the atmosphere had remained relatively calm. However, the sudden reoccurrence of an encounter has left residents in a state of shock and fear. Expressing their desire for peace, villagers emphasized their preference for tranquility over the distress caused by gunfire.

Muhammad Din, a resident of Baaji Maal, recounted the morning’s events, stating, “The firing started in the area this morning. We are all in a state of fear. There is panic among villagers.” He stressed the community’s collective longing for peace, highlighting the disruption caused by the unexpected exchange of bullets, preventing even basic tasks like fetching water during the encounter.

The renewed gunfire has disrupted the prolonged peace in Kalakote villages, leaving residents anxious and emphasizing the urgent need for stability in the region.

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Omar blamed BJP on J-K facing ‘staple crisis’ after Centre reduced ration quota

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Tuesday called the BJP’s development claims in Jammu and Kashmir a “bundle of lies”, accusing the party of “betraying” people in the name of bringing change and providing employment.Addressing a party convention at Malwan in south Kashmir’s Kulgam, he also accused the ruling party at the Centre for creating a “staple crisis” in the Union territory by reducing the rice allotment quota.

“The BJP has consistently betrayed the people, making false promises about elections, unemployment reduction, development, improved electricity, and other issues,” Omar said.

“Except for lies, they have not delivered anything to the people. The condition of electricity was not as dire as it is today despite their claims of spending huge sums on development. Why don’t they allocate more funds to provide electricity to the people of Jammu and Kashmir?” he said.

Claiming that the people of the region are reeling under the “rice crisis” due to the Union government’s decision to reduce the allotment quota, he said, “People have no rice to eat and cannot afford to purchase it from the open market at exorbitant rates. The government’s actions with regards to curtailment of ration quota has created a staple crises in the region.“We are a rice eating zone, but who is going to tell this to the government? They do not give a damn to it,” he said.

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Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah on Monday blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party for ‘spreading lies’ about J&K’s development, saying people of the UT have been deprived of everything, including electricity.
“Here we are facing worst electricity crisis. When we were ruling here, the situation was much better in J&K. The BJP only believes in spreading lies. If they say crores of funds are spent on development, then why don’t they spend money on purchase of electricity for the UT in the period of crisis,” Omar said while addressing a rally in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

Who is Omar Abdullah to know click me

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Omar Abdullah said BJP ‘spreading lies’ about J&K Development

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah on Monday blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party for ‘spreading lies’ about J&K’s development, saying people of the UT have been deprived of everything, including electricity.

“Here we are facing worst electricity crisis. When we were ruling here, the situation was much better in J&K. The BJP only believes in spreading lies. If they say crores of funds are spent on development, then why don’t they spend money on purchase of electricity for the UT in the period of crisis,” Omar said while addressing a rally in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

The former CM said that BJP has betrayed people of the Union Territory. “We have been betrayed in the name of elections. They (BJP) fooled us in name of providing employment. We have also been fooled by the BJP in the name of development,” he said, adding that it was unfortunate that people were facing power cuts for more than 10 to 12 hours.

On holding of polls in J&K, Abdullah said that when Supreme Court announces its decision on Article 370, they will also announce its decision on the elections in UT.

Abdullah also criticised the granting of bail to an army captain convicted by a general court-martial for his role in the 2020 Amshipora fake encounter case.

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Who is Omar Abdullah ?

Omar Abdullah is a prominent Indian politician who hails from the state of Jammu and Kashmir. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Omar Abdullah has played significant roles in regional and national politics. Here is an overview of his background and political career:

Background:
Omar Abdullah was born on March 10, 1970, into the prominent political Abdullah family of Jammu and Kashmir. He is the son of Farooq Abdullah, a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, and the grandson of Sheikh Abdullah, a key political figure in the region.

Political Career:
Omar Abdullah entered politics at a relatively young age. In 1998, he was elected to the 12th Lok Sabha, representing the Srinagar constituency. He served as a Union Minister of State for External Affairs in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government from 2001 to 2002.

Omar Abdullah became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, assuming office on January 5, 2009. His tenure as Chief Minister continued until March 2015. During his term, he faced various challenges, including dealing with civil unrest in 2010, marked by protests and demonstrations.

In the state assembly elections held in 2014, Omar Abdullah’s party, the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC), faced a setback, and he resigned as Chief Minister. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) formed a coalition government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Mufti Mohammad Sayeed became the Chief Minister.

Omar Abdullah has been an active voice on issues related to Jammu and Kashmir and has expressed his views on various national and international platforms. He is known for his articulate communication style and has been a prominent face representing the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

What is BJP?

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is one of the major political parties in India. Founded on April 6, 1980, the BJP has grown to become the largest political party in terms of representation in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, here is an overview of the Bharatiya Janata Party:

1. Ideology:

  • The BJP is often associated with the ideology of Hindutva, which seeks to promote the cultural, social, and political dominance of Hinduism. However, the party maintains that it is committed to the principles of secularism and the protection of the rights of all religious communities.

2. Formation and Growth:

  • The BJP was formed through the merger of several political parties, primarily the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the political wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and various other smaller parties.

3. Leadership:

  • Prominent leaders associated with the BJP include Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L.K. Advani, and Narendra Modi. Narendra Modi has played a particularly significant role in the party’s recent electoral successes.

4. Electoral Success:

  • The BJP has been successful in several state and national elections. It achieved a historic victory in the 2014 general elections, securing a majority on its own in the Lok Sabha. The party performed well in subsequent elections, including the 2019 general elections.

5. Nationalism and Development:

  • The party often emphasizes issues of nationalism, development, and economic reforms in its electoral campaigns. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the BJP has focused on initiatives such as “Make in India,” “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,” and “Digital India.”

6. Policy Positions:

  • The BJP advocates for policies related to economic liberalization, national security, and social conservatism. It supports the idea of a strong and self-reliant India.

7. Coalition Politics:

  • In various states and at the national level, the BJP has engaged in coalition politics. It has formed alliances with other parties to secure power, and it has been a key member of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

8. Controversies:

  • The BJP has faced criticism and controversies related to issues such as religious polarization, communal tensions, and concerns about freedom of expression. These issues have been the subject of public debate and discussion.

Omar Abdullah has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, marking a significant political development in the Union Territory. His return to power comes after the National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance secured a majority in the Assembly elections held earlier this year. Together, they hold over 50 seats in the 95-member Assembly, making Omar Abdullah the first Chief Minister since the region’s reorganisation into a Union Territory in 2019.

Challenges and Vision

Omar Abdullah begins his second tenure as Chief Minister with pressing issues to address. The restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a central demand from both his party and the people, though achieving this requires constructive engagement with the central government. Abdullah has promised a “people-first” approach, focusing on reducing the disconnect between citizens and governance, which many feel has grown in recent years.

The new administration has highlighted unemployment, infrastructure development, and restoring democratic trust as its immediate priorities. Abdullah has emphasised the need for close collaboration with all stakeholders, including the Lieutenant Governor and central authorities, to ensure effective governance.

A Fresh Chapter

This tenure marks Abdullah’s second term as Chief Minister; he previously held the position from 2009 to 2014 when Jammu and Kashmir was a state. His leadership is expected to combine experience with a renewed commitment to addressing the aspirations of the region. Abdullah’s initial actions in office reflect his focus on efficient administration and fostering trust in the government’s ability to deliver.

The swearing-in ceremony, attended by leaders from across the political spectrum, including the Congress and other INDIA bloc members, signals a moment of restored democratic governance in the region. As Abdullah takes charge, he faces the dual challenge of fulfilling electoral promises while navigating the constraints of the Union Territory framework.

His return marks a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, with hopes of progress and reconciliation under his leadership.

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Jammu-Srinagar Rail Link Nears Completion: A Game-Changer for Region’s Transportation Landscape

New Delhi-Kashmir Trains

Srinagar, Nov 21 (KNS): The anticipated opening of the Jammu-Srinagar rail link early next year is poised to mark a pivotal moment in the regional transportation infrastructure, heralding transformative changes.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

This ambitious railway project, designed to boost connectivity and accessibility between Jammu and Srinagar, represents a major breakthrough in the transportation landscape. A senior official from the Railways, speaking on the project’s progress, expressed satisfaction, affirming, “The USBRL project stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and determination of the team. Overcoming challenges such as adverse weather conditions and difficult terrains, we are on track to realize this dream. The completion of this project will be a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir. We anticipate the rail link to connect Srinagar from Jammu in the next four to five months,” the official stated, requesting anonymity.

Traversing the picturesque terrains of the Jammu and Kashmir mountain range, this railway line is hailed as one of the country’s most challenging and ambitious projects. Featuring numerous tunnels, bridges, and daunting topography, it stands as an engineering marvel.

Upon its operationalization, the Jammu-Srinagar rail link is expected to significantly cut travel time between the two cities, providing a more convenient and efficient mode of transportation for both commuters and cargo.

Beyond its impact on transportation, the rail link is set to have far-reaching implications for tourism in the region, making it more accessible to both domestic and international travelers. The scenic route is anticipated to attract tourists seeking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayan region while enjoying the comfort and convenience of rail travel.

Expressing enthusiasm about the development, a local BJP leader remarked, “The operationalization of this long-awaited railway link is a dream come true for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It will not only enhance our travel experience but also open up new avenues for trade and tourism.”

Authorities overseeing the project have assured the public that necessary infrastructure and safety measures are being implemented to ensure the smooth and secure operation of the railway link.

Spanning a sprawling 345-mile stretch, the USBRL project intricately connects the scenic towns of Udhampur, Srinagar, and Baramulla, navigating through challenging terrains and geographic obstacles. Despite these challenges, the unwavering dedication of the project team has propelled construction forward, with recent developments indicating that the final stages are well underway.

Anticipation is palpable among the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the inauguration of the USBRL project, which is expected to be a momentous occasion for the region.

It is worth noting that regular train services already operate between Jammu-Udhampur-Katra in the Jammu region and Baramulla-Banihal in Kashmir. The Railway ministry has previously confirmed that a Vande Bharat Metro train will ply between Jammu and Srinagar once the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project (USBRL) becomes fully operational.

Two remarkable bridges on the section contribute to the project’s engineering marvels. The Chenab Railway Bridge, one of the highest globally, defies gravity as it stands tall over the Chenab River, presenting a breathtaking spectacle against the backdrop of the Pir Panjal mountain range.

While not as towering as the Chenab Railway Bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge holds its own significance. Spanning the Anji Khad River, this bridge showcases intricate design and meticulous planning, representing a critical link in the overall connectivity of the USBRL project. (KNS)

Aim of public Durbar is to get to root cause of problem

In a candid discussion with Kashmir News Service (KNS) during his inaugural public durbar in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police RR Swain shed light on the distinctive challenges faced by the region and outlined a comprehensive approach to address them.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

DGP Swain emphasized that the primary aim of the public durbar is to establish direct communication with the people, delving into the root causes of problems while concurrently fostering confidence among the populace. He clarified that the police, as a service before a force, endeavors to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, conveying both a messaging and substantive intent.

Acknowledging the unique circumstances prevailing in Jammu and Kashmir, DGP Swain pointed out the extraordinary nature of the challenges faced by the police. He highlighted the complex situation where violence and conflict have permeated the overall environment, orchestrated by an organized group with specific objectives. He noted that this scenario differs significantly from situations encountered by police forces elsewhere in the country or globally.

DGP Swain stressed the necessity for a nuanced operational strategy, especially when confronted by individuals wielding firearms. While recognizing the need to address the immediate threat posed by armed individuals, he also emphasized the importance of understanding the root causes behind their actions. Distinguishing between the foot soldiers and those orchestrating the broader terrorism and conflict, he underscored the complexity police face in balancing these considerations.

The Director General of Police expressed the commitment of the force to saving lives and highlighted the dual approach adopted to achieve this goal. He indicated a focused effort on preventing recruitment into violent activities and suggested that specific initiatives would be undertaken to bring back youth who may have strayed from the path of violence.

DGP Swain drew an analogy to medical treatment, stating that just as different procedures are employed based on a patient’s condition, the police will tailor their actions according to the specific challenges presented. He reiterated the intention to treat individuals differently based on their willingness to reconsider their choices.

In conclusion, DGP Swain affirmed the police’s dedication to dealing firmly with those who exploit violence as a trade and economic activity, underlining a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

Mirwaiz visit Bilal Gani Lones Residence

Srinagar, Nov 16 (KNS): Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq has expressed deep grief over the demise of Fateh Muhammad Lone, brother of Shaheed-e-Hurriyat Khwaja Abdul Ghani Lone and uncle of leading political and social leader Bilal Ghani Lone. He expressed heartfelt condolence to Bilal Lone, the deceased’s son Muhammad Iqbal Lone and other members of the Lone family.
In a statement, Mirwaiz paid tribute to the deceased for his social services and prayed for Jannat-ul-Firdous to him and the patience to the bereaved family members.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also paid tribute to Khawaja Sanaullah Bhat, the founder editor of Daily Aftab and Sofi Ghulam Muhammad, the founder editor of Srinagar Times, on their death anniversaries. He described their journalistic and literary services as unforgettable and said that these two journalists took journalism in Kashmir to a new height and even in adverse conditions they never let go of their journalistic values and standards.He prayed for Jannat-ul-Firdous to the deceased personalities.(KNS)

Awantipora Police attached Property of notorious drug peddler

In its ongoing crackdown on drug peddlers, the Awantipora Police has seized a double-storied residential house valued at approximately twelve Lacs. The property is linked to Bakhtawar Ahmad Makroo, a notorious drug peddler and the son of Late Ab Rehman Makroo from Gulzarpora Awantipora. This decisive action was taken under section 68-F of the NDPS Act 1985.

According to a police spokesperson, the residential house was identified as unlawfully acquired during an investigation conducted by the Awantipora Police. The property is believed to have been acquired through illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances by its owner. Notably, Bakhtawar Ahmad Makroo is implicated in Case FIR numbers 20/2017 and 30/2022 of PS Awantipora.

The infamous drug peddler is presently under detention under the PIT-NDPS Act and is housed at Central Jail Kot Balwal in Jammu.

This decisive move underscores the police force’s unwavering commitment to combat the pervasive issue of drug abuse. The local residents of the area have praised the police’s initiative to attach the immovable property, which is suspected to have been funded or utilized through illicit trafficking of narcotics by drug peddlers in the Awantipora Police District.

Why FSD seals Nanwai shop in Anantnag?

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 13 : The Food Safety team in district Anantnag today sealed a Nanwai shop at Chenni Chowk on account of severe deviations from the different provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006.
During the inspection, it was found that the food preparation area was in a dilapidated state, besides there was also lack of maintenance and proper sanitary conditions.
Besides, dirty and damaged and some non-food grade utensils were identified. The premises exhibited a lack of cleanliness, with dust and dirt prevalent throughout.
Most notably, there was direct entry for birds and pests into the food preparation area, posing a significant public health threat and accordingly the shop was sealed and FBO was directed not to temper the seal till further orders.(KNS) 

BREAKING: Weather Set to Stay Dry and Delightful Until Nov 21

SRINAGAR, Nov 11: Weather improved on Subnday after snowfall on higher reaches and widespread rains on plains brought the temperature down and closed several roads in Jammu and Kashmir.
Meteorological department Srinagar forecast of weather is likely to remain dry during till November 21.
The sky was cloudy with cold conditions prevailing around Srinagar and other parts of the Kashmir valley.
Higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley experienced snowfall, while plains were lashed by widespread rains on Friday bringing down the temperature.
Due to snowfall, several roads including Razdan Pass, Zojila Pass, Kishtwar-Anantnag Road, Mughal, Phirkiyan Gali, Machil, Sadna Top, and Srinagar-Sonamarg Road were closed for traffic movement.
“Traffic on Srinagar-Jammu national highway and Srinagar-Sonamarg Gumri road connecting Ladakh was restored and traffic plying normally,” J&K Traffic Police said on X.
However, they said the historical Mughal road connecting south Kashmir’s Shopian district with the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu division reopened after closure due to the accumulation of snowfall for few days.
Snow clearance operations on other far-flung routes are in progress, they said,
The minimum temperature recorded at Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday at 4.2 degrees Celsius and it also experienced 9.2mm of rainfall till 0830 hours today, Qazigund 3.6 degrees Celsius and experienced 31.4mm rainfall, Pahalgam 2.2 degree Celsius and it also experienced 7.2mm rainfall, Kupwara 4.2 and it experienced 29.8mm rainfall, Kokernag 6.2 degree Celsius and it also experienced 5.8mm rainfall and Gulmarg recorded a low of -1.5 and it also received 22.2mm of rainfall, the MeT office said.