Srinagar, Jan 8: Minister for education, Sakina Itoo on Thursday said that politics in the name of religion was unfortunate and warned against such attempts aimed at dividing people for political gains. She said that such practices have weakened the region over time. Sakina Itoo said that society was increasingly witnessing divisions being created under various pretexts, including religion and professional identities. âSometimes people are divided in the name of religion, sometimes in the name of education, doctors or other issues. This kind of politics is unfortunate,â she said. She said that political engagement should remain issue-based and constructive. âThere are many areas where politics can be done. We can have standardised criticism, talk about development and discuss education-related issues. But religion should not be brought into politics,â the education minister said. She expressed concern over the present situation and said such divisions were rarely seen in the past. Referring to the political status of the region, she said Jammu and Kashmir had historically remained united as a State. âJammu and Kashmir has been one state. Today it is a Union Territory, which is unfortunate. We do not have a State, though it should have been one even today,â she said. She further added that internal divisions had contributed to the erosion of powers once enjoyed by the region. She said repeated attempts to divide people harmed Jammu and Kashmirâs unity and status. âBecause we wanted to divide people, we destroyed many of our powers and damaged an old state,â she said. She called for unity and humanity and urged people to keep religion separate and move forward collectively. She also highlighted the responsibility of the education sector in shaping young minds. âThe education departmentâboth school and higher educationâmust ensure quality education and promote positive thinking among children, not negative thinking,â Itoo said.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Medical experts have underlined the decisive role of diet and nutrition in determining fertility outcomes for both men and women amid rising infertility concerns among couples in Kashmir. Doctors say food habits directly influence hormonal balance, reproductive health, and the quality of sperm and eggs. According to health experts, changing lifestyles marked by increased consumption of processed foods, sedentary routines and widespread nutritional deficiencies are increasingly contributing to fertility-related problemsâoften remaining unnoticed until couples seek medical intervention. Dr Shaheena Khan, gynaecologist at the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), said nutrition is among the most crucial yet neglected pillars of reproductive health. âDiet has a direct impact on fertility as it affects hormonal balance, ovulation, sperm production and the overall health of reproductive organs in both men and women,â she said. She highlighted the strong connection between body weight and fertility, explaining that both obesity and being underweight can disrupt normal reproductive functions. âExcess body fat can cause hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation, while being underweight may suppress ovulation altogether. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition is essential for conception,â she noted. Dr Shaheena further said diets rich in fruits and vegetables provide vital antioxidantsâsuch as vitamins C and E, zinc and seleniumâwhich help reduce oxidative stress, a major factor damaging sperm and egg cells. âIron is particularly important for women as it supports ovulation and lowers the risk of ovulatory infertility, while vitamin D plays a key role in reproductive hormone production. Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly being linked with infertility in both men and women,â she added. Echoing similar views, gynaecologist Dr Javid Reshie said fertility is shaped not only by medical conditions but also by everyday lifestyle and dietary choices. âExcessive intake of alcohol and caffeine can negatively affect fertility, while trans fats found in processed and fast foods impair insulin sensitivity and ovulation,â he said. Dr Reshie expressed concern over declining sperm quality among men, calling it an emerging public health issue. âA diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats can significantly improve sperm count, motility and morphology. Men should avoid processed meats, sugary foods and excessive soy intake, as these can adversely affect testosterone levels,â he said. For women, particularly those suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dietary choices play a crucial role. âA low-glycaemic-index diet helps regulate insulin levels and improves ovulation in women with PCOS, thereby increasing their chances of conception,â he added. Both doctors stressed that fertility should be viewed as a shared responsibility between partners. They also emphasised the importance of preconception nutrition, even before couples plan pregnancy. âIncreasing infertility cases are not always linked to major diseases. In many instances, simple dietary corrections and healthy lifestyle changes can help restore reproductive balance,â they said. The doctors advised adopting a nutrient-rich diet comprising fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, nuts, seeds and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods, sugary drinks and trans fats. âFor long-term reproductive well-being and infertility prevention, people must prioritise healthy eating habits, regular physical activity and timely medical consultation. Fertility begins with nutrition,â they said. Doctors further pointed out that infertility is not solely a womanâs issue, noting that up to 50 per cent of infertility cases involve male factors. âA balanced diet helps protect reproductive cells, maintain hormonal balance and improve overall fertility potential in both sexes,â they added.
Srinagar, Jan 8: At least 1257 two-wheeler riders across Jammu and Kashmir have been identified for repeated violations of helmet norms, with over 1000 cases reported from the Kashmir division alone. The figures emerged during a data-driven traffic compliance review, highlighting a growing trend of habitual non-compliance with road safety regulations despite sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns. As per the official data revealed by Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir, Srinagar district has topped the list with 1051 repeat offenders, making it the worst-performing region in terms of helmet compliance. Other districts recorded significantly lower numbers, including Budgam (52), Baramulla (19), Samba (19) and Pulwama (17). Smaller figures were also reported from Anantnag, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Bandipora. The RTO Kashmir on Thursday issued a public notice directing all two-wheeler owners in the Valley to clear pending challans within seven days, failing which strict legal action will be initiated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The measures include suspension of registration certificates and driving licences, besides seizure of vehicles. âIt has come to the notice of the undersigned that several two-wheeler vehicles registered in districts under the Kashmir division are being plied on public roads in violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, particularly riders and pillion riders not wearing helmets,â the notice reads. The data further reveals that many riders in Srinagar have been booked between five and eight times for the same offence, pointing to habitual violations. Officials said the trend reflects a serious disregard for road safety norms, especially in urban areas. âThis is not merely occasional non-compliance but a pattern of repeated violations, particularly in city limits,â an official said. The RTO has warned that failure to clear outstanding challans within the stipulated timeframe will result in immediate enforcement action without any further notice. (KNO)
Srinagar, Jan 8: The Union Home Ministry is set to convene a meeting of the high-powered committee it constituted to deliberate on issues of Ladakh. In an official communication, the MHA has informed Ladakhâs Chief Secretary that the next meeting of the high-powered committee-comprising representatives of the Union Home Ministry, the Ladakh administration, and leaders of Ladakh-will be convened in the last part of January. The Chief Secretary of Ladakh has been asked to consult the members of the high-powered committee regarding their convenient dates and inform the MHA accordingly. The MHA has decided to hold the meeting at a time when leaders of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)-the two conglomerates spearheading the agitation for statehood and constitutional safeguards for the region-have expressed resentment over the inordinate delay in convening the panelâs meeting. Talks between Ladakhâs leadership and the Government of India were last held on October 22, 2025, in New Delhi. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) had submitted a 29-page draft proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs, seeking statehood, Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, and amnesty for people arrested after the September 24 protests. Apart from four deaths, nearly 100 others including police and paramilitary personnel were injured on September 24 when protesters went on a rampage, vandalising buildings and setting a BJP office and a police vehicle on fire. The clashes erupted over demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards on the 15th day of a hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been booked under the NSA and lodged in Jodhpur jail. (KNO)
Srinagar, Jan 8: Minister for education, Sakina Itoo on Thursday said that politics in the name of religion was unfortunate and warned against such attempts aimed at dividing people for political gains. She said that such practices have weakened the region over time. Sakina Itoo said that society was increasingly witnessing divisions being created under various pretexts, including religion and professional identities. âSometimes people are divided in the name of religion, sometimes in the name of education, doctors or other issues. This kind of politics is unfortunate,â she said. She said that political engagement should remain issue-based and constructive. âThere are many areas where politics can be done. We can have standardised criticism, talk about development and discuss education-related issues. But religion should not be brought into politics,â the education minister said. She expressed concern over the present situation and said such divisions were rarely seen in the past. Referring to the political status of the region, she said Jammu and Kashmir had historically remained united as a State. âJammu and Kashmir has been one state. Today it is a Union Territory, which is unfortunate. We do not have a State, though it should have been one even today,â she said. She further added that internal divisions had contributed to the erosion of powers once enjoyed by the region. She said repeated attempts to divide people harmed Jammu and Kashmirâs unity and status. âBecause we wanted to divide people, we destroyed many of our powers and damaged an old state,â she said. She called for unity and humanity and urged people to keep religion separate and move forward collectively. She also highlighted the responsibility of the education sector in shaping young minds. âThe education departmentâboth school and higher educationâmust ensure quality education and promote positive thinking among children, not negative thinking,â Itoo said.
'I have complete faith in our Youthâs potential, their resolve to shape a developed India' Jammu, Jan 7: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on Wednesday, virtually, flagged off a 53-member Youth Contingent from UT of Jammu Kashmir for New Delhi to participate in the 29th National Youth Festival-Viksit Bharat Young Leadersâ Dialogue-2026. To commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda on 12th January, the National Youth Festival (NYF) dedicated to youth empowerment and unity for the youth is organised annually. In the year 2025, the National Youth Festival was restructured as Viksit Bharat Young Leadersâ Dialogue to align with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The contingent selected for the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track and Cultural/Innovation Track will represent J&K at the prestigious national event at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 10th to 12th January 2026. Interacting with the participating youth through virtual mode, the Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes for the prestigious event. He congratulated the participants for emerging from local competitions to reach the national stage, noting that their journey reflects the immense potential inherent in the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. âYouth is not a matter about age. It is the mindset. It is about courage, curiosity, and the power to bring about change. I have complete faith in our Youthâs potential and their resolve to shape a developed India,â the Lieutenant Governor said. Invoking Swami Vivekanandaâs iconic clarion call, âArise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached,â the Lieutenant Governor urged the youth to make their dreams the sole purpose of their lives and to consider every challenge on the way as a lesson in discipline and patience. He emphasized that true leadership is defined not by personal achievements, but by the ability to create opportunities for others. âYour greatest responsibility is towards society and the nation. True progress is about creating opportunities for others to move forward. Develop future capabilities, focus on character building and embrace lifelong learning. Be bold, be fearless, think beyond boundaries. Your courage, discipline, clarity, and determination, combined with the experience will be your guide in this journey toward Viksit Bharat,â the Lieutenant Governor told the Youth. Commissioner Secretary to Government Youth Services and Sports Yasha Mudgal, Director General Youth Services and Sports Anuradha Gupta, senior officials, participating youth and officials accompanying the Contingent were present.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Medical experts have underlined the decisive role of diet and nutrition in determining fertility outcomes for both men and women amid rising infertility concerns among couples in Kashmir. Doctors say food habits directly influence hormonal balance, reproductive health, and the quality of sperm and eggs. According to health experts, changing lifestyles marked by increased consumption of processed foods, sedentary routines and widespread nutritional deficiencies are increasingly contributing to fertility-related problemsâoften remaining unnoticed until couples seek medical intervention. Dr Shaheena Khan, gynaecologist at the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), said nutrition is among the most crucial yet neglected pillars of reproductive health. âDiet has a direct impact on fertility as it affects hormonal balance, ovulation, sperm production and the overall health of reproductive organs in both men and women,â she said. She highlighted the strong connection between body weight and fertility, explaining that both obesity and being underweight can disrupt normal reproductive functions. âExcess body fat can cause hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation, while being underweight may suppress ovulation altogether. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition is essential for conception,â she noted. Dr Shaheena further said diets rich in fruits and vegetables provide vital antioxidantsâsuch as vitamins C and E, zinc and seleniumâwhich help reduce oxidative stress, a major factor damaging sperm and egg cells. âIron is particularly important for women as it supports ovulation and lowers the risk of ovulatory infertility, while vitamin D plays a key role in reproductive hormone production. Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly being linked with infertility in both men and women,â she added. Echoing similar views, gynaecologist Dr Javid Reshie said fertility is shaped not only by medical conditions but also by everyday lifestyle and dietary choices. âExcessive intake of alcohol and caffeine can negatively affect fertility, while trans fats found in processed and fast foods impair insulin sensitivity and ovulation,â he said. Dr Reshie expressed concern over declining sperm quality among men, calling it an emerging public health issue. âA diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats can significantly improve sperm count, motility and morphology. Men should avoid processed meats, sugary foods and excessive soy intake, as these can adversely affect testosterone levels,â he said. For women, particularly those suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dietary choices play a crucial role. âA low-glycaemic-index diet helps regulate insulin levels and improves ovulation in women with PCOS, thereby increasing their chances of conception,â he added. Both doctors stressed that fertility should be viewed as a shared responsibility between partners. They also emphasised the importance of preconception nutrition, even before couples plan pregnancy. âIncreasing infertility cases are not always linked to major diseases. In many instances, simple dietary corrections and healthy lifestyle changes can help restore reproductive balance,â they said. The doctors advised adopting a nutrient-rich diet comprising fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, nuts, seeds and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods, sugary drinks and trans fats. âFor long-term reproductive well-being and infertility prevention, people must prioritise healthy eating habits, regular physical activity and timely medical consultation. Fertility begins with nutrition,â they said. Doctors further pointed out that infertility is not solely a womanâs issue, noting that up to 50 per cent of infertility cases involve male factors. âA balanced diet helps protect reproductive cells, maintain hormonal balance and improve overall fertility potential in both sexes,â they added.
Srinagar, Jan 8: At least 1257 two-wheeler riders across Jammu and Kashmir have been identified for repeated violations of helmet norms, with over 1000 cases reported from the Kashmir division alone. The figures emerged during a data-driven traffic compliance review, highlighting a growing trend of habitual non-compliance with road safety regulations despite sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns. As per the official data revealed by Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir, Srinagar district has topped the list with 1051 repeat offenders, making it the worst-performing region in terms of helmet compliance. Other districts recorded significantly lower numbers, including Budgam (52), Baramulla (19), Samba (19) and Pulwama (17). Smaller figures were also reported from Anantnag, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Bandipora. The RTO Kashmir on Thursday issued a public notice directing all two-wheeler owners in the Valley to clear pending challans within seven days, failing which strict legal action will be initiated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The measures include suspension of registration certificates and driving licences, besides seizure of vehicles. âIt has come to the notice of the undersigned that several two-wheeler vehicles registered in districts under the Kashmir division are being plied on public roads in violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, particularly riders and pillion riders not wearing helmets,â the notice reads. The data further reveals that many riders in Srinagar have been booked between five and eight times for the same offence, pointing to habitual violations. Officials said the trend reflects a serious disregard for road safety norms, especially in urban areas. âThis is not merely occasional non-compliance but a pattern of repeated violations, particularly in city limits,â an official said. The RTO has warned that failure to clear outstanding challans within the stipulated timeframe will result in immediate enforcement action without any further notice. (KNO)
Srinagar, Jan 8: The Union Home Ministry is set to convene a meeting of the high-powered committee it constituted to deliberate on issues of Ladakh. In an official communication, the MHA has informed Ladakhâs Chief Secretary that the next meeting of the high-powered committee-comprising representatives of the Union Home Ministry, the Ladakh administration, and leaders of Ladakh-will be convened in the last part of January. The Chief Secretary of Ladakh has been asked to consult the members of the high-powered committee regarding their convenient dates and inform the MHA accordingly. The MHA has decided to hold the meeting at a time when leaders of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)-the two conglomerates spearheading the agitation for statehood and constitutional safeguards for the region-have expressed resentment over the inordinate delay in convening the panelâs meeting. Talks between Ladakhâs leadership and the Government of India were last held on October 22, 2025, in New Delhi. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) had submitted a 29-page draft proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs, seeking statehood, Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, and amnesty for people arrested after the September 24 protests. Apart from four deaths, nearly 100 others including police and paramilitary personnel were injured on September 24 when protesters went on a rampage, vandalising buildings and setting a BJP office and a police vehicle on fire. The clashes erupted over demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards on the 15th day of a hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been booked under the NSA and lodged in Jodhpur jail. (KNO)
New Delhi, Jan 8:Â Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, on Thursday said that âOperation Sindoorâ sent a clear message that everyone has to contribute towards nation building. Addressing cadets at the ongoing National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantonment, the IAF chief said that life was not just about earning money or personal pursuits. âSo, whether you are a soldier or a military leader in uniform, or a regular citizen, give your best and contribute to nation-building," he said. Air Chief Marshal Singh told the NCC cadets that the role played by them in civil defence activities during Operation Sindoor motivated many people. âThe military action brought a lot of awareness. It is not just about earning money or doing things only for oneself in life, it is equally important to do something for the country,â he said. The IAF Chief asked the NCC cadets to give their best for the country and ensure that you keep on serving the nation to the best of your ability whether you join the armed forces or pursue other professions He also exhorted them not to be deterred by failures but to emerge stronger from any setback, citing his own journey to the top post. âI too faced failures in my life and career, but I rose to become an IAF chief," he said. Pertinently, a total of 2,406 NCC cadets, including 898 girls, from across the country are participating in the nearly month-long camp, which was inaugurated on Monday by Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan. It will culminate with the NCC PM Rally on January 28. (KNO)
Srinagar, Jan 8: At least 1257 two-wheeler riders across Jammu and Kashmir have been identified for repeated violations of helmet norms, with over 1000 cases reported from the Kashmir division alone. The figures emerged during a data-driven traffic compliance review, highlighting a growing trend of habitual non-compliance with road safety regulations despite sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns. As per the official data revealed by Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir, Srinagar district has topped the list with 1051 repeat offenders, making it the worst-performing region in terms of helmet compliance. Other districts recorded significantly lower numbers, including Budgam (52), Baramulla (19), Samba (19) and Pulwama (17). Smaller figures were also reported from Anantnag, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Bandipora. The RTO Kashmir on Thursday issued a public notice directing all two-wheeler owners in the Valley to clear pending challans within seven days, failing which strict legal action will be initiated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The measures include suspension of registration certificates and driving licences, besides seizure of vehicles. âIt has come to the notice of the undersigned that several two-wheeler vehicles registered in districts under the Kashmir division are being plied on public roads in violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, particularly riders and pillion riders not wearing helmets,â the notice reads. The data further reveals that many riders in Srinagar have been booked between five and eight times for the same offence, pointing to habitual violations. Officials said the trend reflects a serious disregard for road safety norms, especially in urban areas. âThis is not merely occasional non-compliance but a pattern of repeated violations, particularly in city limits,â an official said. The RTO has warned that failure to clear outstanding challans within the stipulated timeframe will result in immediate enforcement action without any further notice. (KNO)
KS News Desk Baramulla, Jan 6: Drug abuse has emerged as the biggest challenge in Jammu and Kashmir after terrorism, Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range (NKR), Maqsood Ul Zamaan said on Tuesday, asserting that police are taking sustained and strong action to curb the menace. Talking to reporters here, the DIG said police in North Kashmir have made significant progress against drug trafficking, with large quantities of narcotic substances recovered and several people arrested in recent months. He said many of the accused involved in drug-related offences have also been detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act. âThe J&K Police cannot fight this battle alone. Public cooperation is crucial. Without the support of common people, achieving the desired success against drugs is not possible,â Maqsood Ul Zamaan said. The DIG said police have also begun attaching and seizing properties of drug traffickers as part of efforts to dismantle the entire network and cut off financial links. Responding to a question on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), Ul Zamaan said such tools are often misused to conceal illegal activities and that their misuse is being closely monitored as it could pose a threat to national security. On infiltration attempts in North Kashmir, the DIG said the region being a border area remains sensitive, but security agencies have put robust arrangements in place. âThe situation is under constant surveillance, and security forces are fully alert,â he said. Zamaan reiterated that police would continue to intensify operations against drug trafficking while simultaneously seeking cooperation from the public to address the problem effectively. (KNS)
Addresses teachers convention at Udhampur, hails then CM Dr. Farooq Abdullahâs decision of introducing ReT scheme KS News Desk Udhampur, Jan 5:Â Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Monday addressed the One Day Convention of Teachers here, underscoring the pivotal role of teachers in shaping a progressive and enlightened society. Director School Education Jammu Naseem Javaid Choudhary, ACR Udhampur, Joint Director School Education Udhampur/Reasi, DSWO Udhampur, CMO Udhampur, CEO Udhampur, other senior officers of Education department and large number of teachers were also present on the occasion. Speaking to a large gathering of educators, the education minister lauded teachers as the true architects of building progressive society, stating that their contribution goes far beyond classrooms and textbooks. âTeachers play a decisive role in nurturing responsible citizens and strengthening moral and intellectual fabric of societyâ, she said. The education minister called upon teachers to adapt to evolving educational challenges and adopt innovative teaching methods to meet the aspirations of the younger generation. She stressed that continuous professional development and value-based education are essential to keep pace with changing times. She lauded the teachers for their contribution to education sector and said that under the visionary leadership of then Chief Minister, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, the revolutionary step of introducing Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) scheme was initiated which changed the dynamics of school education sector in J&K. Â She added that due to ReT scheme, students of far-flung areas, who couldnât afford to move to cities for educational purposes, received education in their respective areas. She highlighted that the teachers need to be acknowledged for their contribution to the society, adding that the large number of IAS, IPS and JKAS officers have studied from government schools for which their teachers need to acknowledged. She emphasised the need to reform and strengthen the teacherâstudent relationship saying the mutual respect, trust and understanding must form the foundation of all educational institutions. She highlighted that some positive reforms need to be initiated for improving student-teacher relationship in educational institutions. She reiterated the governmentâs commitment to improving the education sector and assured that sustained efforts are being made by the Omar Abdullah led government to upgrade infrastructure, enhance teaching standards and promote holistic learning across educational institutions of J&K. Addressing the gathering, Director School Education Jammu said the government has worked tirelessly from last one year for the development of education sector, particularly the change of Academic session, timely updation of seniority lists, conduct of DPCs and other related issues have been solved and some are under active consideration of the government. He highlighted that various reformative steps for the betterment of education sector are under process of the government, which will significantly improve the educational standards across Jammu and Kashmir. On the occasion, various teachers spoke and lauded the efforts of Government, especially education minister for various path breaking initiatives in education sector. They expressed gratitude to Minister for various decisions like change in academic session, regularisation of CPWs, posting of Principals and other teachers in various schools which was long pending issue, availability of textbooks in schools, timely updation of seniority lists as well as regular conduct of DPCs at all levels. On the occasion, the teachers also put forth some demands before the minister like provision of leave salary to teachers at the time of retirement, restoration of Old Pension Scheme (OPS), withdrawal of teachers from non teaching assignments in other departments like Census, Surveys and others as well as timely disbursement of dues for Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme. On the sidelines of the Convention, the education minister distributed sewing machines among women beneficiaries of Social Welfare department. Â She also distributed bicycles among school children for their outstanding performance in various National sports championships and academic activities.
Houseboats float in silence as tourists skip lakes, prefer Gulmarg, PahalgamRehan Qayoom MirSrinagar, Jan 3: Once the pride of Kashmir s tourism and a floating symbol of its charm, Srinagar s houseboats, often called the jewel in the crown are quietly sinking into neglect as visitors are bypassing the lakes.Houseboat owners said that occupancy has dropped to as low as 10 15 percent this winter, leaving most rooms empty, heaters off and livelihoods adrift."We are watching the rush in Gulmarg and Pahalgam on television. But here, our boats are empty, said Ghulam Nabi, a houseboat owner from Dal Lake. It feels like tourists have forgotten that Srinagar exists, he added.Notably, despite a packed tourist season in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, where hotels are running full, Dal and Nigeen lakes narrate a different story.The charm of the floating hotels, once popular with couples, filmmakers and other people from different parts of the world has faded amid changing travel trends and the winter chill."Tourists are preferring snow-covered resorts, which could be one of the reasons for the emptiness of Dal Lake," said a houseboat owner. Running a houseboat in winter is costly, with high expenses for heating, frozen water pipes and maintenance, said Manzoor Ahmad, who has been in the business for over decades. When guests don t come, it s a double loss. Pertinently, Srinagar s houseboats have long been the face of Kashmir s tourism, offering visitors a unique experience of living on the serene Dal and Nigeen lakes.Once numbering over 3,000, only around 750 remain operational today due to decades of restrictions on repairs, declining water quality and shifting tourist preferences. (KNO)
'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.
