Srinagar, Feb 7: General Secretary Organization, Jammu & Kashmir BJP Ashok Koul Saturday addressed a massive public convention at Municipal Park, Ashajpora Bypass, Anantnag. In his address, he highlighted the commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party towards development, good governance, and public welfare. The convention was also addressed by J&K BJP General Secretary Anwar Khan, District President Anantnag Rakesh Koul, Programme Incharge Abaid Hussain Nengroo, senior BJP leader Sofi Yousuf, and a large number of party workers and supporters. In his address, Ashok Koul launched a scathing attack on the National Conference government, stating that while the Modi-led Central Government continues to stand firmly with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the NC regime has failed to deliver on its promises. âThe Modi Government has provided âč1430 crore as disaster relief assistance for Jammu & Kashmir to support distressed families affected by natural calamities. This reflects the sensitivity and commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the people of this region,â Koul said. Ashok Koul further said that the recently presented Union Budget is a strong, public-friendly, and Viksit Bharatâoriented budget, aimed at empowering youth, farmers, women, and the poor, while strengthening infrastructure and economic growth. "In sharp contrast, the budget presented by the NC government in J&K is completely hollow, directionless, and devoid of any concrete roadmap for development or employment," he said. Later, at the BJP District Office Anantnag, Ashok Koul, along with Anwar Khan, Sofi Yousuf, and Rakesh Koul, addressed an organizational meeting of all district office bearers and constituency presidents, reviewing ongoing party programmes and future strategies. While addressing the meeting, Ashok Koul called upon party workers to remain disciplined, united, and dedicated to public service. He said that the BJPâs strength lies in its cadre-based organization. He said that every BJP activist must work tirelessly at the grassroots level to address public issues and strengthen peopleâs trust in the party. Speaking on the occasion, Anwar Khan said that BJP workers are the real ambassadors of the partyâs ideology and governance model. Our focus is to ensure that the benefits of Central Government schemes reach every eligible person without discrimination, he said. Rakesh Koul assured that the Anantnag district unit is fully committed to strengthening the party at the booth level and serving the people with dedication and honesty.
Doda, Feb 7: Former Chief Minister and JKPDP President Mehbooba Mufti interacted with civil society members in Doda under the partyâs Baat Cheet grassroots dialogue initiative. Addressing the gathering, Mehbooba Mufti said the Chenab Valley has remained neglected for decades despite its immense human and natural potential. âThe people of Chenab Valley deserve dignity, development, and equal opportunities,â she said. She reiterated the demand for divisional status and a High Court division bench in the region to ensure better access to justice. Stressing the importance of connectivity, she said the KapranâDessa tunnel, SudhmahadevâMammat tunnel, and rail connectivity were essential for all-weather access and balanced regional development. Highlighting the regionâs tourism potential, Mehbooba Mufti called for planned and sustainable development through a Doda Development Authority to generate employment for local youth while safeguarding local interests. On social infrastructure, she demanded the establishment of a Cluster University at Doda and urgent upgradation of education and health facilities. She also called for a womenâs degree college and skill-based institutions to empower young women and make them job ready. Raising concerns over natural resource management, Mehbooba Mufti said blue sapphire mining should be opened to the public under existing laws to ensure transparency and benefit local communities. She further stressed that power projects must prioritize local employment and utilise CSR funds for catchment area development and community welfare. She further said that Baat Cheet initiative aims to rebuild trust through dialogue and ensure that voices from remote and marginalised regions like the Chenab Valley are reflected in policy making.
Jammu, Feb 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Saturday informed the Legislative Assembly that a zero-tolerance policy has been adopted to effectively tackle the growing menace of drug addiction across the Union Territory. In a written reply to a Question raised by MLA Yudhvir Sethi regarding the measures taken to combat drug abuse, minister in-charge for Health and Medical Education Department, informed the House that strict action is being taken against violations of the Drugs Act, especially in cases involving the sale of narcotic and psychotropic substances. "To prevent misuse of drugs prone to intoxication, CCTV cameras have been installed in medical sale establishments, and a computerised billing system for procurement and sale of medical products has been made mandatory," the minister informed the House. The reply further reads that no fresh or renewal drug sale licence is being granted without installation of CCTV cameras. "As of now, the target to install CCTV systems has been achieved 100 percent, while computerised billing coverage has reached 99.9 percent across the Union Territory," it reads. The government also informed the House that Drug Control authorities were maintaining strict vigil over courier service providers to curb the clandestine inflow of intoxicating drugs. "In addition, collaborative efforts are being carried out with State Drug Controllers of neighbouring States and Union Territories to restrict interstate smuggling of such medicinal preparations," the reply reads. The House was informed that to further strengthen enforcement, the department was conducting joint exercises with allied enforcement agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Excise Department, Police, Revenue authorities and Air Cargo units, aimed at tackling illicit trafficking and supply chains of intoxicating drugs. "Regular inter-departmental NCORD meetings are being held at UT and District levels, under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary and Deputy Commissioners, respectively, to monitor steps being taken for eradication of drug abuse and menace in society," the reply reads. As per the government figures, during the year 2025â26 (up to December 2025), 518 awareness programmes have been conducted across J&K to sensitise people about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The government further informed that the Toll-Free Helpline (104) was being widely publicised during awareness programmes and through print and electronic media, enabling citizens to lodge complaints regarding illegal sale and misuse of drugs.
LoP Sharma says no such word exists in Constitution of India Jammu, Feb 7:Â The Legislative Assembly on Saturday witnessed a heated exchange between the National Conference and the Bharatiya Janata Party over the âspecial â status of Jammu & Kashmir. Pandemonium broke out in the House when National Conference MLA Javaid Hassan Baig was vociferously speaking on the special status. Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma countered him by asserting that there is no such thing as a special status. âI am ready to face any punishment if you can show me the words Special Status in the Indian Constitution. Shouting in the House will not work,â he said. Sharmaâs remarks were countered by NC MLAs with slogans in favour of Article 370. BJP MLAs also resorted to sloganeering, leading to commotion that continued for a few minutes. Later NC MLA continued his speech on the Budget presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday, in the Legislative Assembly.
Srinagar, Feb 7: General Secretary Organization, Jammu & Kashmir BJP Ashok Koul Saturday addressed a massive public convention at Municipal Park, Ashajpora Bypass, Anantnag. In his address, he highlighted the commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party towards development, good governance, and public welfare. The convention was also addressed by J&K BJP General Secretary Anwar Khan, District President Anantnag Rakesh Koul, Programme Incharge Abaid Hussain Nengroo, senior BJP leader Sofi Yousuf, and a large number of party workers and supporters. In his address, Ashok Koul launched a scathing attack on the National Conference government, stating that while the Modi-led Central Government continues to stand firmly with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the NC regime has failed to deliver on its promises. âThe Modi Government has provided âč1430 crore as disaster relief assistance for Jammu & Kashmir to support distressed families affected by natural calamities. This reflects the sensitivity and commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the people of this region,â Koul said. Ashok Koul further said that the recently presented Union Budget is a strong, public-friendly, and Viksit Bharatâoriented budget, aimed at empowering youth, farmers, women, and the poor, while strengthening infrastructure and economic growth. "In sharp contrast, the budget presented by the NC government in J&K is completely hollow, directionless, and devoid of any concrete roadmap for development or employment," he said. Later, at the BJP District Office Anantnag, Ashok Koul, along with Anwar Khan, Sofi Yousuf, and Rakesh Koul, addressed an organizational meeting of all district office bearers and constituency presidents, reviewing ongoing party programmes and future strategies. While addressing the meeting, Ashok Koul called upon party workers to remain disciplined, united, and dedicated to public service. He said that the BJPâs strength lies in its cadre-based organization. He said that every BJP activist must work tirelessly at the grassroots level to address public issues and strengthen peopleâs trust in the party. Speaking on the occasion, Anwar Khan said that BJP workers are the real ambassadors of the partyâs ideology and governance model. Our focus is to ensure that the benefits of Central Government schemes reach every eligible person without discrimination, he said. Rakesh Koul assured that the Anantnag district unit is fully committed to strengthening the party at the booth level and serving the people with dedication and honesty.
Meer Javeed Handwara, Jan 30: Residents of Kohinoor Colony Handwara Friday complained that the authorities did not clear the snow from the link road of Rest House to Kohinoor Colony Handwara. Locals told this correspondent that they were facing hardships as the snow has accumulated on the link road of Rest House to Kohinoor Colony Handwara area of district Kupwara. "This has restrained our movement as the authorities did not clear the inner link road," the locals said Local residents appealed concerned authorities to look into the matter and clear snow from road so that the residents of Kohinoor Colony will overcome from the hardships.
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 Championshipâ2025 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. âYour success proves that talent knows no geographical barriers. With determination and proper guidance, our youth can excel on any national and international platform,â 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 championshipâ2025 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.
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.
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 institutionâs 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 schoolâs faculty. Addressing the gathering, Chairman Dr B Gurappa Naidu expressed pride in the studentsâ achievements. âAnnual Day is a reflection of our studentsâ creativity, discipline, and teamwork. At BGS Bloomfield, we strive to nurture every childâs potential by offering a balanced environment that promotes academic excellence alongside cultural enrichment,â 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 schoolâs holistic approach to education, saying it was inspiring to see young students display confidence, discipline, and creativity on stage. âInstitutions like BGS Bloomfield play a vital role in shaping responsible and empowered citizens of the future,â 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 studentsâ heartfelt performances and the schoolâs 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 Bloomfieldâs vision of nurturing confident, compassionate, and future-ready learners," the handout reads.
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: âAre we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?â
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 OrchardâcumâNursery (Public Sector) at Watayan, Chogal, Kupwara has been approved at a cost of âč17.20 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. âThis 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,â Inam Un Nabi said.
Srinagar, Feb 04:Â 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.
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.
Baramulla, Feb 03: Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa Tuesday distributed 94 ice boxes among the registered fishermen and fish farmers of the district. The boxes were distributed in a step towards strengthening the fisheries sector. Assistant Director Fisheries was also present at the occasion. The ice boxes have been procured by the Fisheries Department under the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP) to support post-harvest management and improve the livelihoods of fishing communities. Speaking at the occasion, DC Baramulla highlighted that the initiative is part of the long-term goal of the Jammu and Kashmir Government to double the income of people associated with agriculture and its allied sectors. Minga Sherpa said that the initiative aims to enhance the shelf life of fish produce, minimize post-harvest losses, and promote hygienic handling, especially among street fish vendors. Furthermore, DC Baramulla added that by enabling safe storage and transportation of fish, the intervention is expected to help beneficiaries avoid distress sales and access better market opportunities, thereby improving their income levels. The DC also said that the ice boxes would play a key role in maintaining the quality and freshness of fish, ensuring the supply of safe and hygienic produce to consumers, adding that such measures not only benefit producers but also enhance consumer confidence in locally produced fish.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmirâs 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). âAbout a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,â 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.âIf we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,â he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeebâs research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. âIn this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,â he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. âIt is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,â 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,â 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. âMy parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,â he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. âJust as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.â âYoung people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,â he further added.
