Srinagar, Jan 11: Once celebrated as the face of Kashmirâs environmental conscience, Bilal Ahmad Dar the young man who became synonymous with the cleaning of Wular Lake today lies confined to a bed, battling neglect, disability, and broken promises. Bilal, a resident of Laharwalpora village in Bandipora district, rose to national attention in 2017 when a video of him single-handedly collecting plastic waste from the ecologically fragile Wular Lake went viral. A teenager then, earning a living as a ragpicker, Bilalâs selfless act of cleaning Asiaâs second-largest freshwater lake caught the attention of authorities and environmentalists alike. His story was later documented in the film Saving the Saviour. Impressed by his dedication, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) appointed Bilal as the brand ambassador for Wular Lake and SMC Srinagar, projecting him as a symbol of cleanliness and environmental responsibility. Official records confirm that Bilal was formally engaged by the civic body in 2017, with verbal assurances that he would be given a permanent job once he attained the age of 18. Eight years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. Despite years of service, Bilal continues to work without regularisation. His monthly honorarium has remained stagnant at âč8,000 since his initial engagement, with no written assurance, no increment, and no concrete steps towards permanent employment. His plight worsened dramatically last year when he met with a devastating accident that resulted in the loss of almost one leg. He underwent prolonged treatment and multiple medical procedures, spending nearly âč14 lakh. Even today, Bilal is unable to move independently and remains largely bedridden. âI served SMC honestly for years. I cleaned Wular Lake, the Jhelum, and several streams flowing into the lake. I carried out awareness drives across Srinagar,â Bilal said. âI was promised a permanent job after I turned 18, but nothing changed. After my accident, no one came forward to help me.â He said the sense of abandonment weighs heavily on him. âEven after four years of turning 18, no official listens to me. I fear that one day SMC will also throw me out,â he said, adding that he still wishes to contribute towards keeping Wular Lake clean, if only he is given dignity and support. Bilal is now demanding that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation honour its commitment by granting him permanent employment, which he says was crucial for his survival and continued medical care.(KNS)
Caracas, Jan 11: Venezuelan lawmaker Nicolas Maduro Guerra has said that his father, President Nicolas Maduro, sent a message through his lawyers saying he is in good condition and remains resolute while being held in the United States. "The lawyers told us they are strong and that we should not be sad," Guerra said while addressing leaders of the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela on Saturday (local time). He quoted his father as saying: "We are well. I am a fighter." President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are currently held in the United States after US forces carried out military strikes in Caracas and three other Venezuelan cities on January 3, an operation that resulted in their capture. The strikes have drawn worldwide condemnation and concern, reports Xinhua news agency. Maduro Guerra said his father remains unbroken, adding that the government and its supporters "are united and standing firm." "The strength of Chavismo lies in unity. Whatever happens, we must remain united," he said. Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, on Saturday pledged to secure the return of Maduro and his wife. Speaking at a community event in Miranda state, Rodriguez said there was no uncertainty about Venezuela's leadership or governing program. "There is no uncertainty here. The Venezuelan people are in charge, and there is a government, that of President Nicolas Maduro," she said, calling for unity to guarantee peace, stability and the country's future. Rodriguez vowed not to rest "for a single minute" until Maduro and Flores return to Venezuela. She noted that a year ago, she was sworn in alongside Maduro at the start of his third term, adding that "today, one year later, we are swearing for his freedom." Rodriguez said national unity would be decisive in what she described as the effort to "rescue" Maduro, reaffirming that her government continues to implement the seven lines of action set by Maduro. (IANS)
New Delhi, Jan 11: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankarâs January 4â9 visit to France and Luxembourg highlighted Indiaâs expanding engagement with Europe, the Ministry of External Affairs said. In France, Jaishankar met President Emmanuel Macron and held talks with Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, reviewing progress in bilateral ties and upcoming high-level engagements. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in defence, security, space, civil nuclear energy, maritime security and the economy, besides global and regional issues. Marking the IndiaâFrance Year of Innovation, both sides explored expanding collaboration in innovation, technology, startups, health, education and mobility. Jaishankar also addressed the 31st Conference of Ambassadors of France as Guest of Honourâthe first non-European foreign minister to do soâwhere he spoke on global shifts and the importance of strategic autonomy. The External Affairs Minister participated in the first India-Weimar Foreign Ministersâ Meeting with counterparts from France, Germany and Poland, stressing closer IndiaâEurope and IndiaâEU ties. He also interacted with French parliamentarians and held meetings with the heads of the International Energy Agency and UNESCO. In Luxembourg, Jaishankar called on Grand Duke Guillaume, met Prime Minister Luc Frieden, and held talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel. The discussions covered political cooperation, trade, investment, financial services, innovation, digital technologies, space cooperation and people-to-people ties. He also addressed the Indian community, acknowledging its role in strengthening bilateral relations. The MEA said the visit reaffirmed Indiaâs strong partnerships with France and Luxembourg and its growing convergence of interests with Europe. (IANS)
Sopore, Jan 11: Sopore Police have apprehended four drug peddlers in three separate NDPS cases across Police District Sopore, leading to the seizure of contraband substances and registration of multiple FIRs. The action has been taken as part of its its sustained drive against drug trafficking. In the first incident, Police Station Bomai established a naka on the NathiporaâTujjer link road. During checking, a suspicious person attempted to flee but was apprehended by the alert naka party. Upon search, charas-like substance was recovered from his possession. Police have identified the accused as Umar Mohammad son of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh of Sheikhpora Tujjer. "Accordingly, FIR No. 03/2026 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act was registered at PS Bomai, and investigation was initiated," the handout reads. In another case, Police Post Warpora established a naka at Poultry Crossing, Dangerpora Road, where two suspicious persons attempted to evade checking but were tactfully apprehended. During the search, capsules of Spasmo-Proxyvon Plus were recovered from their possession. The accused have been identified as Majid Ashraf Khan son of Mohammad Ashraf Khan, from Pethseer Sopore, and Musadiq Mehraj, son of Mehraj-ud-Din Dar, of Muslimpeer Sopore. "In this regard, FIR No. 08/2026 under Section 8/22 NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Sopore, and investigation is underway," it reads. In a third incident the police party of Police Post Bus Stand Sopore apprehended one person who attempted to flee during routine patrolling at Neharpora Crossing. "Upon personal search, heroin-like substance and tablets of Alprazolam were recovered from his possession," the handout reads. The accused has been identified as Nasir Yousuf Shah son of Mohammad Yousuf Shah from Neharpora. Accordingly, FIR No. 09/2026 under Sections 8/21 and 22 NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Sopore. "Further investigation in all the cases is in progress to trace the source and wider network involved," the Police handout reads. Sopore Police reiteratedtheir zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and reaffirm their commitment to protecting youth and society from the menace of drugs through "sustained enforcement and preventive measures."
Srinagar, Jan 11: Once celebrated as the face of Kashmirâs environmental conscience, Bilal Ahmad Dar the young man who became synonymous with the cleaning of Wular Lake today lies confined to a bed, battling neglect, disability, and broken promises. Bilal, a resident of Laharwalpora village in Bandipora district, rose to national attention in 2017 when a video of him single-handedly collecting plastic waste from the ecologically fragile Wular Lake went viral. A teenager then, earning a living as a ragpicker, Bilalâs selfless act of cleaning Asiaâs second-largest freshwater lake caught the attention of authorities and environmentalists alike. His story was later documented in the film Saving the Saviour. Impressed by his dedication, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) appointed Bilal as the brand ambassador for Wular Lake and SMC Srinagar, projecting him as a symbol of cleanliness and environmental responsibility. Official records confirm that Bilal was formally engaged by the civic body in 2017, with verbal assurances that he would be given a permanent job once he attained the age of 18. Eight years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. Despite years of service, Bilal continues to work without regularisation. His monthly honorarium has remained stagnant at âč8,000 since his initial engagement, with no written assurance, no increment, and no concrete steps towards permanent employment. His plight worsened dramatically last year when he met with a devastating accident that resulted in the loss of almost one leg. He underwent prolonged treatment and multiple medical procedures, spending nearly âč14 lakh. Even today, Bilal is unable to move independently and remains largely bedridden. âI served SMC honestly for years. I cleaned Wular Lake, the Jhelum, and several streams flowing into the lake. I carried out awareness drives across Srinagar,â Bilal said. âI was promised a permanent job after I turned 18, but nothing changed. After my accident, no one came forward to help me.â He said the sense of abandonment weighs heavily on him. âEven after four years of turning 18, no official listens to me. I fear that one day SMC will also throw me out,â he said, adding that he still wishes to contribute towards keeping Wular Lake clean, if only he is given dignity and support. Bilal is now demanding that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation honour its commitment by granting him permanent employment, which he says was crucial for his survival and continued medical care.(KNS)
Srinagar, Jan 10:Â Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore Saturday chaired two key review meetings to assess the District Health Action Plan (DHAP) 2026â27 and the progress and operational status of various power projects in the district. During the meetings, DC underlined the focus of administration on strengthening public health services and infrastructure development. DC Ganderbal who is also the Chairman of the District Health Society (DHS) reviewed and approved the District Health Action Plan for 2026â27 which aims at ensuring quality, accessible and equitable healthcare across Ganderbal. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Ganderbal presented a detailed overview of the proposed plan, highlighting health priorities, sector-wise interventions, physical and financial planning, human resource needs, infrastructure strengthening, priority health programmes under the National Health Mission (NHM), and budgetary requirements. The plan emphasized key focus areas including Comprehensive Primary Health Care, Non-Communicable Diseases, Maternal and Child Health, Disease Surveillance, National Health Programmes and capacity building of health institutions. DC stressed the need to strengthen health service delivery and directed enhancement of budgetary allocations under priority activities to improve outreach, quality of care and effective implementation of NHM programmes. He also called for strong inter-departmental coordination, timely execution, optimal use of resources and close monitoring to achieve measurable improvements in health indicators. Earlier in the day, the DC chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the performance and progress of power projects in the district. Detailed discussions were held on power generation against installed capacity, operational efficiency, breakdowns, operation and maintenance status, manpower availability, asset health and grid connectivity issues. Officials of the Power Development Corporation (PDC) briefed the chair on the functioning and challenges of projects including Upper Sindh Hydel Project-I & II, Kangan, Mini Hydro Project Rayil and other small hydro projects. The DC also reviewed the status of the upcoming 93 MW Multipurpose New Ganderbal Hydroelectric Project (NGHEP), with officials apprising him of progress on land acquisition, removal of encumbrances, statutory clearances and infrastructure development. He further reviewed the functioning of USHP-I Sumbal and USHP-II Kangan projects and sought updates on land acquisition and forest clearances, assuring full support from the district administration for resolving genuine issues on priority.
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.
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.
New Delhi, Jan 10: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports and Transport, Satish Sharma Saturday met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and projected several issues and initiatives related to sports upgradation aiming transformation of Jammu and Kashmir into a national hub of sports excellence. The Minister submitted a comprehensive Memorandum outlining an ambitious, multi-sectoral roadmap to upgrade sports infrastructure, promote youth engagement, generate employment and position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for sports tourism and high-performance training. He highlighting cricket was a passion for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and sought sanction of international-standard cricket stadiums at Srinagar and Jammu. He stated that the absence of such facilities has long restricted the region from hosting national and international fixtures. He emphasized that these stadiums would not only revive top level cricket in the UT but also boost tourism and inspire a new generation of athletes. The Minister also proposed creation of a Border Sports Development Circuit spanning KathuaâSamba, AkhnoorâChhamb, PoonchâNowsheraâRajouri, UriâBaramullaâKupwara and KarnahâGurez, aimed at harnessing the sporting talent of youth living in border and far-flung areas. He sought special grants for development of Dangal Akharas, cycling tracks, hockey and football fields besides provision of sports equipment in all border panchayats to strengthen grassroots sports and youth engagement. To promote employment through sports, Satish Sharma requested for a financial support of âč600 crore over five years for establishing 10 Border Sports & Employment Hubs (BS-EH), five each in Jammu and Kashmir, equipped with multi-sport facilities, skill training classrooms and residential infrastructure. He also proposed a Border Youth Sports Apprenticeship Programme with an outlay of âč300 crore, a Coaches & Trainers Wage Support Scheme of âč150 crore and a High-Altitude & Winter Sports Livelihood Programme of âč120 crore for areas like Gurez, Tangdhar and Teetwal. The Minister laid special emphasis on water and winter sports, seeking establishment of a National Water Sports Centre of Excellence at Basohli (Kathua) by upgrading the world-class facility at Ranjit Sagar Dam. He also proposed declaring Jammu & Kashmir as Indiaâs National Hub for Paddle and Water Sports, leveraging its unparalleled natural water resources. Satish Sharma further sought revival of the Arun Jaitley International Cricket Stadium Project at Hiranagar, whose upgradation had been sanctioned earlier but stalled due to external impediments. He requested the Union Ministryâs intervention to remove obstacles and ensure completion of the project, calling it a landmark for the Jammu region. To optimally utilise the growing sports infrastructure in J&K, the Minister proposed a Special Coaches Engagement Scheme for hiring qualified national and international-level coaches on contract basis, especially in priority disciplines like gymnastics, water sports, winter sports and cricket. He also called for regularisation and utilisation of registered NYCs as a skilled human resource base in sports. He recognised the need for quality accommodation to host national and international sporting events and sought development of modern Youth Hostels at Jammu and Srinagar under the Khelo India framework to boost sports tourism and training capacity. Satish Sharma also called for expediting the long-pending National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg, seeking direct facilitation for engagement of international consultants and release of funds to the J&K Sports Council to kick-start this landmark project. Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that Jammu and Kashmir has immense untapped sporting potential and world-class natural advantages. âWith focused national support, our youth can become champions on the global stage while sports can become a powerful engine of employment, tourism and regional development,â he said. The Minister expressed confidence that the proposals, aligned with the Khelo India vision and National Sports Development Agenda, would help establish Jammu and Kashmir as a leading sporting destination and talent hub of India.
Srinagar, Jan 10: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib Saturday chaired a series of review meetings to assess progress and preparedness across key sectors. She took a review of environmental safeguards related to the Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project, healthcare service delivery during the ongoing winter season in Gurez, and the status of irrigation and water body census operations in the district. While chairing a meeting of Multi-Disciplinary Monitoring Committee on the Kishanganga Hydroelectric (HE) Project, DC Bandipora took a stock of environmental and livelihood-related impacts of the project and emphasized the need for comprehensive planning and judicious utilization of resources. She directed all concerned departments to compile and share accurate baseline data pertaining to impacted revenue villages, catchment areas, conservation measures and other affected parameters to enable effective mitigation planning. She asked the Agriculture Department, in coordination with allied departments to assess department-wise losses, stating that the district administration is also considering engaging experts to ensure scientific and credible project formulation. Deputy Commissioner also took a review of healthcare service delivery in Sub-Division Gurez, with special focus on winter preparedness. She assessed the functioning of health institutions, availability of manpower, ambulances, oxygen support, diagnostic facilities, operation theatres, blood storage units and maternal healthcare services. During the meeting, it was informed that as a precautionary measure, most pregnant women expected to deliver in the coming two months have already been shifted to District Headquarters Bandipora to ensure access to advanced care. Progress under major national health programmes, including Ayushman Bharat, ABHA, NCD screening and RBSK, was also reviewed. The Deputy Commissioner directed concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted, patient-friendly healthcare services during the winter season, and reviewed the readiness of snow clearance machinery and essential supplies in Gurez. She also chaired a review meeting on the progress of the 7th Minor Irrigation Census and the 2nd Census of Water Bodies in the district. In the meeting, she was informed that the census is being conducted in a fully digital mode by the Revenue Department, with Patwaris collecting field-level data on irrigation capacity, irrigated land and water sources. She directed the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to depute technical experts for accurate data entry and asked the Agriculture Department to share data on irrigated and unirrigated areas to ensure accuracy and timely completion of the exercise. She emphasised on coordination, data accuracy and timely execution saying that evidence-based planning and efficient service delivery are essential for sustainable development and public welfare in the district.
Srinagar, Jan 11: Once celebrated as the face of Kashmirâs environmental conscience, Bilal Ahmad Dar the young man who became synonymous with the cleaning of Wular Lake today lies confined to a bed, battling neglect, disability, and broken promises. Bilal, a resident of Laharwalpora village in Bandipora district, rose to national attention in 2017 when a video of him single-handedly collecting plastic waste from the ecologically fragile Wular Lake went viral. A teenager then, earning a living as a ragpicker, Bilalâs selfless act of cleaning Asiaâs second-largest freshwater lake caught the attention of authorities and environmentalists alike. His story was later documented in the film Saving the Saviour. Impressed by his dedication, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) appointed Bilal as the brand ambassador for Wular Lake and SMC Srinagar, projecting him as a symbol of cleanliness and environmental responsibility. Official records confirm that Bilal was formally engaged by the civic body in 2017, with verbal assurances that he would be given a permanent job once he attained the age of 18. Eight years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. Despite years of service, Bilal continues to work without regularisation. His monthly honorarium has remained stagnant at âč8,000 since his initial engagement, with no written assurance, no increment, and no concrete steps towards permanent employment. His plight worsened dramatically last year when he met with a devastating accident that resulted in the loss of almost one leg. He underwent prolonged treatment and multiple medical procedures, spending nearly âč14 lakh. Even today, Bilal is unable to move independently and remains largely bedridden. âI served SMC honestly for years. I cleaned Wular Lake, the Jhelum, and several streams flowing into the lake. I carried out awareness drives across Srinagar,â Bilal said. âI was promised a permanent job after I turned 18, but nothing changed. After my accident, no one came forward to help me.â He said the sense of abandonment weighs heavily on him. âEven after four years of turning 18, no official listens to me. I fear that one day SMC will also throw me out,â he said, adding that he still wishes to contribute towards keeping Wular Lake clean, if only he is given dignity and support. Bilal is now demanding that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation honour its commitment by granting him permanent employment, which he says was crucial for his survival and continued medical care.(KNS)
Sopore, Jan 11: Sopore Police have apprehended four drug peddlers in three separate NDPS cases across Police District Sopore, leading to the seizure of contraband substances and registration of multiple FIRs. The action has been taken as part of its its sustained drive against drug trafficking. In the first incident, Police Station Bomai established a naka on the NathiporaâTujjer link road. During checking, a suspicious person attempted to flee but was apprehended by the alert naka party. Upon search, charas-like substance was recovered from his possession. Police have identified the accused as Umar Mohammad son of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh of Sheikhpora Tujjer. "Accordingly, FIR No. 03/2026 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act was registered at PS Bomai, and investigation was initiated," the handout reads. In another case, Police Post Warpora established a naka at Poultry Crossing, Dangerpora Road, where two suspicious persons attempted to evade checking but were tactfully apprehended. During the search, capsules of Spasmo-Proxyvon Plus were recovered from their possession. The accused have been identified as Majid Ashraf Khan son of Mohammad Ashraf Khan, from Pethseer Sopore, and Musadiq Mehraj, son of Mehraj-ud-Din Dar, of Muslimpeer Sopore. "In this regard, FIR No. 08/2026 under Section 8/22 NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Sopore, and investigation is underway," it reads. In a third incident the police party of Police Post Bus Stand Sopore apprehended one person who attempted to flee during routine patrolling at Neharpora Crossing. "Upon personal search, heroin-like substance and tablets of Alprazolam were recovered from his possession," the handout reads. The accused has been identified as Nasir Yousuf Shah son of Mohammad Yousuf Shah from Neharpora. Accordingly, FIR No. 09/2026 under Sections 8/21 and 22 NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Sopore. "Further investigation in all the cases is in progress to trace the source and wider network involved," the Police handout reads. Sopore Police reiteratedtheir zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and reaffirm their commitment to protecting youth and society from the menace of drugs through "sustained enforcement and preventive measures."
Srinagar, Jan 10:Â Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore Saturday chaired two key review meetings to assess the District Health Action Plan (DHAP) 2026â27 and the progress and operational status of various power projects in the district. During the meetings, DC underlined the focus of administration on strengthening public health services and infrastructure development. DC Ganderbal who is also the Chairman of the District Health Society (DHS) reviewed and approved the District Health Action Plan for 2026â27 which aims at ensuring quality, accessible and equitable healthcare across Ganderbal. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Ganderbal presented a detailed overview of the proposed plan, highlighting health priorities, sector-wise interventions, physical and financial planning, human resource needs, infrastructure strengthening, priority health programmes under the National Health Mission (NHM), and budgetary requirements. The plan emphasized key focus areas including Comprehensive Primary Health Care, Non-Communicable Diseases, Maternal and Child Health, Disease Surveillance, National Health Programmes and capacity building of health institutions. DC stressed the need to strengthen health service delivery and directed enhancement of budgetary allocations under priority activities to improve outreach, quality of care and effective implementation of NHM programmes. He also called for strong inter-departmental coordination, timely execution, optimal use of resources and close monitoring to achieve measurable improvements in health indicators. Earlier in the day, the DC chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the performance and progress of power projects in the district. Detailed discussions were held on power generation against installed capacity, operational efficiency, breakdowns, operation and maintenance status, manpower availability, asset health and grid connectivity issues. Officials of the Power Development Corporation (PDC) briefed the chair on the functioning and challenges of projects including Upper Sindh Hydel Project-I & II, Kangan, Mini Hydro Project Rayil and other small hydro projects. The DC also reviewed the status of the upcoming 93 MW Multipurpose New Ganderbal Hydroelectric Project (NGHEP), with officials apprising him of progress on land acquisition, removal of encumbrances, statutory clearances and infrastructure development. He further reviewed the functioning of USHP-I Sumbal and USHP-II Kangan projects and sought updates on land acquisition and forest clearances, assuring full support from the district administration for resolving genuine issues on priority.
Srinagar, Jan 10: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib Saturday chaired a series of review meetings to assess progress and preparedness across key sectors. She took a review of environmental safeguards related to the Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project, healthcare service delivery during the ongoing winter season in Gurez, and the status of irrigation and water body census operations in the district. While chairing a meeting of Multi-Disciplinary Monitoring Committee on the Kishanganga Hydroelectric (HE) Project, DC Bandipora took a stock of environmental and livelihood-related impacts of the project and emphasized the need for comprehensive planning and judicious utilization of resources. She directed all concerned departments to compile and share accurate baseline data pertaining to impacted revenue villages, catchment areas, conservation measures and other affected parameters to enable effective mitigation planning. She asked the Agriculture Department, in coordination with allied departments to assess department-wise losses, stating that the district administration is also considering engaging experts to ensure scientific and credible project formulation. Deputy Commissioner also took a review of healthcare service delivery in Sub-Division Gurez, with special focus on winter preparedness. She assessed the functioning of health institutions, availability of manpower, ambulances, oxygen support, diagnostic facilities, operation theatres, blood storage units and maternal healthcare services. During the meeting, it was informed that as a precautionary measure, most pregnant women expected to deliver in the coming two months have already been shifted to District Headquarters Bandipora to ensure access to advanced care. Progress under major national health programmes, including Ayushman Bharat, ABHA, NCD screening and RBSK, was also reviewed. The Deputy Commissioner directed concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted, patient-friendly healthcare services during the winter season, and reviewed the readiness of snow clearance machinery and essential supplies in Gurez. She also chaired a review meeting on the progress of the 7th Minor Irrigation Census and the 2nd Census of Water Bodies in the district. In the meeting, she was informed that the census is being conducted in a fully digital mode by the Revenue Department, with Patwaris collecting field-level data on irrigation capacity, irrigated land and water sources. She directed the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to depute technical experts for accurate data entry and asked the Agriculture Department to share data on irrigated and unirrigated areas to ensure accuracy and timely completion of the exercise. She emphasised on coordination, data accuracy and timely execution saying that evidence-based planning and efficient service delivery are essential for sustainable development and public welfare in the district.
'Results likely to get delayed in absence of Chairman' Jammu, Jan 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) on Wednesday said the result of the class 10th examinations will be declared soon after the appointment of the Chairman of the Board. The statement comes amid the uncertainty about the declaration of the results by JKBOSE. In an official handout issued here, JKBOSE has advised students not to pay heed to fake links and websites announcing declaration of class 10 results. "Result of class 10th will be declared within few days soon after the appointment of new Chairman," the statement reads. The JKBOSE has stated that the results of annual examination of class 10 of Kashmir valley and winter zone areas of Jammu Division are almost ready. "But its approval by Result Declaration Committee headed by BOSE Chairman is a pre- requisite before its declaration. In absence of the Chairman the results are likely to get a little delayed," it reads. The JKBOSE officials have advised the students to wait for the formal declaration on the official website of the Board- www.jkbose.nic.in. "Students should not get misled by scamesters and fake narratives circulated by some mischievous elements, whose sole aim is to create confusion in the innocent student community," the statement reads.
