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1425 ‘illegal’ structures demolished across J&K since Oct-2024

Srinagar, Feb 12: The government has demolished 1,425 residential and commercial structures across Jammu and Kashmir since October 2024, with Srinagar accounting for the highest share. The government ruled out any proposal to provide compensation or free land to the affected families for reconstruction of their houses. It also said that no construction is permitted without proper approval. The government further said demolitions were carried out under the provisions of the J&K Public Premises Act, 1988 and other relevant laws. Authorities served notices under the relevant sections before taking action and followed due procedure, including verification from revenue authorities. The figures revealed in response to queries of MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz's query, the minister in-charge said that, 1,194 residential and 231 commercial structures were demolished in different districts. “The demolitions were ordered by development authorities, municipal bodies, revenue officials and, in some cases, under court directions.” Srinagar recorded the highest number of demolitions at 1,133 structures. This includes 615 residential structures demolished by the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority, 394 by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and five by the Srinagar Development Authority. In the commercial category, 100 structures were demolished by SMC, 17 by LCMA and two by SDA. Similarly, Jammu district reported 237 demolitions. Of these, 162 residential and 75 commercial structures were demolished by the Jammu Development Authority. The Jammu Municipal Corporation demolished six residential and 12 commercial structures, while revenue authorities removed three structures. Ramban saw 19 demolitions, including 15 commercial structures, carried out by the National Highways Authority of India. Kathua reported seven demolitions, Udhampur three and Ganderbal three. Anantnag recorded 10 commercial demolitions by the Pahalgam Development Authority. Baramulla reported one demolition under directions from the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir. Budgam reported two, Kupwara one and Bandipora two demolitions, largely by Urban Local Bodies and revenue officials. Shopian reported four demolitions and Kulgam three. Responding to a specific query on the demolition of a house linked to journalist Arfaz Ahmad Daing, the government said due procedure was followed. It said notices were issued under the relevant Act and that the demolition was carried out after verification from the concerned revenue authorities. The reply also stated that Daing, in a written submission had claimed no connection with the land or property in question. The government also informed the house that legal intervention, ‘lack of timely police assistance, deviation from approved plans and delays as factors that sometimes allow unauthorized construction to progress before action is taken.'

3 hours Ago
J&K collects Rs 34.17 crore as penalty under Motor Vehicles Act: GoI informs Parliament

Srinagar, Feb 12: Jammu and Kashmir recorded over 15.48 lakh traffic violation cases in 2025, with authorities collecting more than Rs 34.17 crore as penalty under the Motor Vehicles Act, the Centre informed Parliament on Thursday. The information was shared in the Lok Sabha in response to a question raised by MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal. According to the official data, 15,48,525 challans were issued across the Union Territory in 2025, while the penalty amount recovered stood at Rs 34,17,36,740. The figures further show that in 2024, a total of 15,44,105 violations were registered with a penalty collection of around Rs 43.40 crore, while in 2023, 12,38,584 challans were issued and Rs 34.56 crore was collected. For the current year, till February 8, 2026, Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 1,63,531 traffic violation cases, with revenue collection of about Rs 2.11 crore. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated that stricter penalties under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 are aimed at ensuring better compliance and deterrence. It also said that traffic enforcement falls under the jurisdiction of States and Union Territories. The government has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for electronic monitoring and is promoting technology-driven enforcement through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras integrated with the VAHAN database. Awareness campaigns under the Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan are also being carried out to improve road safety.

3 hours Ago
BJP set for historic third term in Assam: Sunil Sharma

Assam, Feb 12: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and BJP Election Co-incharge for Assam, Sunil Sharma, addressed a massive Mahila Sammelan in Silchar, energising party cadres and women supporters ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. According to a statement issued here, addressing the Sammelan, Sunil Sharma emphasized that women are no longer passive beneficiaries but decisive stakeholders in nation-building, asserting that their rising participation is strengthening democracy and reshaping India’s socio-economic landscape. The Modi government has empowered women with opportunities, confidence and respect, and the Union Budget further strengthens this resolve, he said. Sunil Sharma highlighted the pro people and women centric initiatives of the BJP led government, stating that the Union Budget reflects the party’s firm commitment to inclusive growth, women empowerment and economic development. He emphasized that women are playing a decisive role in strengthening democracy and driving social change across the country. Expressing strong confidence in the BJP’s prospects, Sunil Sharma said that the people of Assam, especially in the Barak Valley, are fully aware of the BJP’s development-oriented governance model, which has delivered stability, infrastructure growth, welfare benefits and transparent administration. He said that the party’s deep grassroots connect and performance-driven politics have earned the trust of every section of society. Sunil Sharma categorically declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government in Assam for the third consecutive term with an even bigger and historic mandate.  He said that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the organisational strength of the BJP, and the tireless work of party workers have positioned the party for a resounding victory. Calling upon women to play a pivotal role, Sharma said that Mahila Shakti will be the backbone of BJP’s third victory in Assam, urging them to take the message of development, good governance and nationalism to every household. “The BJP’s victory in Assam is not just an electoral outcome, but a reaffirmation of the people’s faith in Modi ji’s policies and vision. The third term will mark a new chapter of accelerated growth and empowerment,” he added.

3 hours Ago
MP Er Rashid raises plight of daily wagers, contractual, consolidated employees in Parliament

Srinagar, Feb 12: North Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid Thursday made a strong and emotional appeal to the Union Government, urging it not to strangle the livelihoods of daily wagers, contractual and consolidated employees and warning that development built on their suffering would amount to grave injustice. During his address in the House, Engineer Rashid said that irrespective of who owns the wealth or who builds grand structures, every palace is ultimately constructed on the sweat and blood of workers. “If we fail to respect their labour and sacrifice, it will be a great injustice,” he said. Drawing attention to the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the MP said the House would be shocked to learn that thousands of daily wagers, contractual and consolidated employees, working in factories, workshops and government departments have remained unregularised for decades. He pointed out that many of them were engaged in their youth, their children are now in their twenties and the employees themselves have crossed fifty years of age, yet continue to be denied regular status. Sharing a personal example, Engineer Rashid said he himself worked in the public sector in 2008 and even after leaving the job fourteen years ago, dues in his area remain unpaid till date, reflecting the harsh realities faced by daily wagers and contractual staff. Citing the saying of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he reminded the House that wages must be paid before the sweat dries and questioned why even the right to strike is being taken away from such employees. Er Rashid urged the government to bring, if not immediately, then at least in the near future, a national policy for the regularisation of daily wagers, contractual and consolidated employees working in factories, semi government organisation and government departments, so that families forced to survive on uncertainty can earn dignified livelihoods. Engineer Rashid also raised serious concern over the condition of porters working along border areas, from Karnah to Kanyakumari, who serve alongside the Army and BSF but whose rights remain completely unprotected. He cited cases from Baramulla where porters lost their lives while on duty and received only token compensation with no proper rehabilitation and demanded statutory protection of their rights. Highlighting the plight of employees in the unorganised sector, he questioned the adequacy of the minimum wage, asking what could possibly be managed in Rs 350 per day. He pointed out that even inside Parliament, sanitation staff who repeatedly greet MPs are themselves denied dignified wages, despite being an essential but unorganised workforce. The MP further criticised the functioning of labour courts and labour administration stating that accident victims are forced to wander for justice when daily wagers or contractual employees lose limbs or suffer serious injuries at workplaces. He said labour courts and designated officials often treat such postings casually, resulting in denial of timely relief. Engineer Rashid also warned that economic growth figures and trillion-dollar dreams are meaningless if achieved by crushing daily wagers, contractual and consolidated employees. “Do not choke them,” he appealed. “Whether the palace is yours or the wealth belongs to someone else, it is built on their blood and sweat. Ignoring their rights will be a grave injustice.”

7 hours Ago
Jammu and Kashmir
1425 ‘illegal’ structures demolished across J&K since Oct-2024

Srinagar, Feb 12: The government has demolished 1,425 residential and commercial structures across Jammu and Kashmir since October 2024, with Srinagar accounting for the highest share. The government ruled out any proposal to provide compensation or free land to the affected families for reconstruction of their houses. It also said that no construction is permitted without proper approval. The government further said demolitions were carried out under the provisions of the J&K Public Premises Act, 1988 and other relevant laws. Authorities served notices under the relevant sections before taking action and followed due procedure, including verification from revenue authorities. The figures revealed in response to queries of MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz's query, the minister in-charge said that, 1,194 residential and 231 commercial structures were demolished in different districts. “The demolitions were ordered by development authorities, municipal bodies, revenue officials and, in some cases, under court directions.” Srinagar recorded the highest number of demolitions at 1,133 structures. This includes 615 residential structures demolished by the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority, 394 by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and five by the Srinagar Development Authority. In the commercial category, 100 structures were demolished by SMC, 17 by LCMA and two by SDA. Similarly, Jammu district reported 237 demolitions. Of these, 162 residential and 75 commercial structures were demolished by the Jammu Development Authority. The Jammu Municipal Corporation demolished six residential and 12 commercial structures, while revenue authorities removed three structures. Ramban saw 19 demolitions, including 15 commercial structures, carried out by the National Highways Authority of India. Kathua reported seven demolitions, Udhampur three and Ganderbal three. Anantnag recorded 10 commercial demolitions by the Pahalgam Development Authority. Baramulla reported one demolition under directions from the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir. Budgam reported two, Kupwara one and Bandipora two demolitions, largely by Urban Local Bodies and revenue officials. Shopian reported four demolitions and Kulgam three. Responding to a specific query on the demolition of a house linked to journalist Arfaz Ahmad Daing, the government said due procedure was followed. It said notices were issued under the relevant Act and that the demolition was carried out after verification from the concerned revenue authorities. The reply also stated that Daing, in a written submission had claimed no connection with the land or property in question. The government also informed the house that legal intervention, ‘lack of timely police assistance, deviation from approved plans and delays as factors that sometimes allow unauthorized construction to progress before action is taken.'

Editor February 12, 2026 0
Tourist footfall in Gurez rising, waste management efforts ramped up: Govt tells Assembly

Srinagar, Feb 9:  The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday informed the JK Legislative Assembly that Gurez was witnessing a steady rise in tourist arrivals over the past few years. The government further informed the House that several measures taken to strengthen sanitation and waste management in the ecologically sensitive region. The details were shared by the  Minister in-charge, Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj in response to a question raised by MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan. As per the government figures, tourist footfall in Gurez has increased consistently, with 40,105 visitors in 2022, 48,797 in 2023, and 1,11,613 in 2024. In 2025 so far, the destination has already recorded 54,675 arrivals. About the concerns over sanitation, the government informed the House that it has undertaken considerable and sustained efforts to improve waste management infrastructure. "These include construction of community compost pits, soakage pits and waste segregation sheds, alongside regular door-to-door solid waste collection," the minister informed the House. A Plastic Waste Management Unit is under construction, while twin-pit dustbins have been installed at key locations - including along the banks of the River Kishenganga - to ensure scientific disposal and discourage littering. The government said that dumping of garbage into the Kishenganga was strictly prohibited, and no such practice is allowed by residents, hotels or commercial establishments. The department said it remains committed to safeguarding the fragile ecology of Gurez through strengthened waste collection and segregation systems, expanded sanitation interventions in and around Dawar town, installation of dustbins at high-footfall points, and creation of durable community assets. "Regular awareness and sensitization programmes are also being conducted for residents, shopkeepers and tourists to promote responsible waste disposal and maintain environmental cleanliness in the region," the reply reads.

Sports nurture talent, prepare youth to face challenges in life: Sakina Itoo

Udhampur, Jan 10: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday conducted an extensive tour of far-flung areas of Tehsil Panchari of  District Udhampur and felicitated the winners of  6th ISKOI India Karate Championship–2025 during an impressive medal ceremony held at Government Higher Secondary School, Panchari here. Mission Director POSHAN Sajad Ahmad Ganai, Director Social Welfare Jammu Ranjeet Singh, Director Health Services Jammu, Director Colleges, PO Poshan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Joint Director School Education Udhampur -Reasi, DDC Member Panchari, other district officers, parents of medal winners and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Minister congratulated the girl achievers, their parents and the local populace on the remarkable accomplishment of young girls. She lauded their dedication, discipline and fighting spirit and expressed  pride in the fact that many of these medal winners hailed from far-flung and remote areas, overcoming limited resources and challenging circumstances, to bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Sakeena said that the achievements of these young girl sportspersons reflect their hard work and their parents as well as the growing sports culture in the region. “Your success proves that talent knows no geographical barriers. With determination and proper guidance, our youth can excel on any national and international platform,” she stated. Highlighting the importance of sports, the Minister said that sporting activities provide a common platform for budding sportspersons to showcase their talent and prepare them to face challenges in life. She urged the participants to actively engage in sports for physical fitness, mental well-being  and overall personality development. She assured continued government support for promoting sports activities, especially in rural and far-flung areas, to ensure equal opportunities for talented players. She also lauded the efforts of the International Shito-Ryu Karate Organisation of India for promoting sports culture among youth, especially in rural areas. During the ceremony, the Minister interacted with the players, coaches and parents, appreciating the role of coaches and families in nurturing young talent. She encouraged the medal winners to continue their  training and aim for greater achievements at national and international competitions. During the ceremony, as many as 47 medal winners of the 6th ISKOI India Karate championship–2025 were felicitated by the  Minister and presented trophies and prizes to them. On the sidelines of the event, Sakeena Itoo Later distributed school bags and umbrellas under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme. Later, the Minister also interacted with DDC Member Panchari, former PRI members and locals who projected several  issues and demands pertaining to health, education, road and other sector before the Minister. While interacting with them, the Minister said that the Director Health Services Jammu has been given strict instructions to prepare a holistic plan for upgradation of medical care facilities at the PHC Panchari as well as addressing shortage of staff, owing to the remoteness of area from district head quarters. She further added that the maintenance of road and allied works will be taken up with concerned quarters for immediate redressal. She reaffirmed that the Government led by  Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is committed to strengthen road connectivity, health infrastructure and other essential facilities to ensure every basic service is available at the doorsteps of common people. She also said that the Tourism potential of the Panchari area will be tapped to its full extent by the Government, which will eventually lead to overall development of the area and add to its economic efficiency.

With technology on display, Indian Army holds Know Your Army event in Baramulla

Baramulla, Jan 25: The Indian Army on Sunday organised Know Your Army event at District Police Line (DPL) Baramulla. From Artillery guns to Fly past by Drones in action and from new generation vehicles and latest equipment on display, the Dagger Division of Indian Army put on display its weapons to instill national pride among locals in Baramulla. The event was organised to commemorate 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The event was organised by Dagger Division of Chinar Corps to showcase the operational capabilities of the Indian army and to inspire local youth to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, reinforcing National pride and unity.  GOC, Dagger Division was the Chief Guest at the occasion while other and senior army officers and officials from civil administration were also present at the occasion. The event was declared open by the by GoC Dagger Division for the public. "Weather did not dampen the spirit of the enthusiastic locals and children who thronged the event  in large numbers to witnessed the display," an official handout reads. Major highlights of the celebrations were an impressive capability display of Swarm of Drones, martial arts by Army and children of Chinar Yuva. "Children witnessing the  event were enthralled by the mesmerising show of the Canine companions of soldiers," the handout reads. The people present at the occasion were entertained by vibrant, energetic and melodious Kashmiri renditions of famous songs sung by the local band, Strings of Baramulla of Chinar YUVA Center.   A captivating display of state of the art weapons and military equipment found favour with the youth. The event witnessed by approximately 1500 spectators, including Army and government officials besids the students from schools and colleges. The event received widespread appreciations from students and the local community, who expressed admiration for the discipline, dedication and combat readiness of the Indian Army. "Event successfully strengthened public confidence in the armed forces and fostered a renewed sense of patriotism among the youth of Baramulla," the handout reads.

BGS Bloomfield Bengaluru celebrates Annual Day 2026**

Bengaluru, Jan 9: BGS Bloomfield School celebrated its Annual Day 2026 with a grand cultural evening showcasing creativity, talent, and holistic learning. The event, held on the school campus, featured vibrant performances by students from Nursery to Grade 10, reflecting the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, character-building, and co-curricular development. Member of Parliament from Bangalore Central Parliamentary Constituency, P C Mohan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while renowned Kannada stand-up comedian Gangavathi Pranesh was the Guest of Honour. Their presence added inspiration and enthusiasm to the celebrations, encouraging students to pursue their aspirations with confidence and dedication. The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a series of captivating cultural performances, including classical dance, theatre, musical ensembles, and thematic presentations centred on unity, gratitude, and nation-building. Each performance reflected months of preparation and the dedicated guidance of the school’s faculty. Addressing the gathering, Chairman Dr B Gurappa Naidu expressed pride in the students’ achievements. “Annual Day is a reflection of our students’ creativity, discipline, and teamwork. At BGS Bloomfield, we strive to nurture every child’s potential by offering a balanced environment that promotes academic excellence alongside cultural enrichment,” he said. He added that the performances stood as a testament to the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents. Chief Guest P C Mohan lauded the school’s holistic approach to education, saying it was inspiring to see young students display confidence, discipline, and creativity on stage. “Institutions like BGS Bloomfield play a vital role in shaping responsible and empowered citizens of the future,” he said. He congratulating the management, faculty, and students for the impressive celebration. Guest of Honour Gangavathi Pranesh brought a touch of humour to the occasion while appreciating the students’ heartfelt performances and the school’s emphasis on value-based education. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of teachers, parents, and partners in making the celebration memorable. "The Annual Day reinforced BGS Bloomfield’s vision of nurturing confident, compassionate, and future-ready learners," the handout reads.

'Support your children through setback, they will bounce back stronger'

Srinagar, Jan 15: After the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) declared the result of the class 10th and 12th annual (regular) examinations, the whole focus shifted to the achievers, particularly the toppers. Amidst the appreciation and celebrations for the successful candidates, a stark reality has emerged in society that none of the stakeholders talk about those students who could not pass the examination. This emerging trend has become dangerous for the young students particularly the average performers or those who do not pass the exam in their first attempt. Amid this, a government school teacher has put forth a clear message for the parents of those children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams. Aasima Jan, a government school teacher from Baramulla district said that expectations of the parents should not make the students victim of depression. She believes that the parents must stand by their children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams or qualified it with average grades. After the announcement of the results, some students qualified the exams with good marks in class 10th and 12th exams while qualified with average grades while some could not qualify the exams. "Those parents whose children either took less marks or could not qualify for the exam, must be a little upset with their children. As a parent, it is natural to feel disappointed when your child does not come up to your expectations," Aasima Jan said. She however said that the high expectations of parents should not make the child a victim of depression. "Class 10th exam is just a first step in the educational journey of these children. This is not the end of life. Life will provide more opportunities, with more chances and more ways to excel," Aasima Jan said. She said the parents must support their child at this time deal with this setback. "If parents support their child at this time, their kids will bounce back more stronger in future. Parents must tell their children that failures are not opposite to success but are actually part of success," she said. She said there were many people who did not qualify normal exams but proved their worth in life after facing setbacks. "Parents must put in their efforts. Embrace their child, support them instead of letting them down," she said. As the JKBOSE declared the result of class 10th and 12th class examination, the stakeholders and society at large pour praise and attention on the top performers while there was a deafening silence surrounding those who do not pass the examination. The move raised a serious concern, particularly about the way children are being brought up. It raised big question that: “Are we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?”

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Tourist footfall in Gurez rising, waste management efforts ramped up: Govt tells Assembly
Editor February 9, 2026 0

Srinagar, Feb 9:  The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday informed the JK Legislative Assembly that Gurez was witnessing a steady rise in tourist arrivals over the past few years. The government further informed the House that several measures taken to strengthen sanitation and waste management in the ecologically sensitive region. The details were shared by the  Minister in-charge, Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj in response to a question raised by MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan. As per the government figures, tourist footfall in Gurez has increased consistently, with 40,105 visitors in 2022, 48,797 in 2023, and 1,11,613 in 2024. In 2025 so far, the destination has already recorded 54,675 arrivals. About the concerns over sanitation, the government informed the House that it has undertaken considerable and sustained efforts to improve waste management infrastructure. "These include construction of community compost pits, soakage pits and waste segregation sheds, alongside regular door-to-door solid waste collection," the minister informed the House. A Plastic Waste Management Unit is under construction, while twin-pit dustbins have been installed at key locations - including along the banks of the River Kishenganga - to ensure scientific disposal and discourage littering. The government said that dumping of garbage into the Kishenganga was strictly prohibited, and no such practice is allowed by residents, hotels or commercial establishments. The department said it remains committed to safeguarding the fragile ecology of Gurez through strengthened waste collection and segregation systems, expanded sanitation interventions in and around Dawar town, installation of dustbins at high-footfall points, and creation of durable community assets. "Regular awareness and sensitization programmes are also being conducted for residents, shopkeepers and tourists to promote responsible waste disposal and maintain environmental cleanliness in the region," the reply reads.

MP Er Rashid Brings Rs 17.20 Cr Horticulture project to Kupwara
Editor February 7, 2026 0

Srinagar, Feb 7: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Saturday welcomed the approval of a major horticulture project in Kupwara district, terming it a positive outcome of sustained political intervention and follow-up. In a statement, Inam Un Nabi said that the Development of Model Orchard–cum–Nursery (Public Sector) at Watayan, Chogal, Kupwara has been approved at a cost of â‚č17.20 crore, with funding committed under the NABARD scheme. He said the project was initially taken up by Er Rashid, Member of Parliament from Baramulla, who consistently pushed for strengthening public-sector horticulture infrastructure in the region. He added that the project was later actively pursued at multiple levels by Sheikh Khursheed, MLA Langate, whose follow-up ensured that the proposal moved from approval to tendering. “This project will play an important role in improving quality nursery production, supporting orchardists, and creating employment opportunities for local youth. It reflects what focused representation and continuous follow-up can deliver for people,” Inam Un Nabi said.

20 Govt offices operate from rented accommodation in Budgam
Editor February 4, 2026 0

Srinagar, Feb 04:  The Jammu and Kashmir government Wednesday informed the Legislative Assembly that as many as 20 government offices in Budgam district were functioning from rented premises. The government further informed the House that there was no proposal under consideration for constructing a unified government office complex at the sub-district level. In a written reply by minister in-charge Public Works (R&B) Department, the House was informed that as on date, 20 government offices of different departments in District Budgam are functioning from rented buildings. "There is no such proposal under consideration for construction of a unified Government Office Complex at sub-district level either with this Department or with the Revenue Department," the minister in-charge informed the House.

Kupwara admin launches overnight rescue operation for tourists stranded at Sadna top
Editor February 4, 2026 0

Srinagar, Feb 4: The district administration Kupwara launched an overnight rescue and evacuation operation at Sadna Top after heavy snowfall left dozens of vehicles stranded in the high-altitude stretch. The officials said that despite adverse weather conditions and poor visibility, coordinated teams were pressed into service late night who worked through the early hours to evacuate vehicles stuck due to intense snow accumulation.  Officials said at least 35 stranded vehicles were safely evacuated during the operation. The rescue effort was carried out on a war footing, with snow clearance machinery and field teams deployed to prevent further distress to commuters and avert any medical or weather-related emergencies. Authorities said priority was given to clearing vulnerable stretches and ensuring the safety of passengers. They said the situation at Sadna Top had deteriorated rapidly following fresh snowfall, leading to disruption of vehicular movement.  Timely intervention by the administration, they said, helped restore partial movement and prevented escalation of the situation. The administration has advised travellers to avoid unnecessary movement towards high-altitude areas and urged strict adherence to traffic advisories until weather conditions stabilise. Authorities said weather conditions were being closely monitored and further action would be taken as required to ensure road safety and public convenience.

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Sopore scientist gains global recognition for black hole research
Sopore scientist gains global recognition for black hole research

Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). “About a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,” he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.“If we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,” he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeeb’s research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. “In this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,” he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. “It is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,” he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,” he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. “My parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,” he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. “Just as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.” “Young people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,” he further added.

January 7, 2026

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