Srinagar, Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha Monday said that Jammu and Kashmir’s economy was driven by sustained government initiatives and strategic policy interventions.
He said that the J&K's economy was estimated to register a growth rate of 11 percent at current prices.
He was addressing people on eve of 77th Republic Day in Jammu.
"The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of the J&K UT is estimated at Rs 2,62,458 crore for 2024–25, up from Rs 2,36,059 crore in 2023–24. This positive trajectory underscores the effectiveness of ongoing economic development strategies, infrastructure expansion, and business-friendly policies," he said.
He further said that the tourism sector occupies a pivotal position in the economy of Jammu and Kashmir and was granted the status of an industry in 2020 to attract greater investment.
"Known as the Paradise on Earth, J&K recorded 1.61 crore tourist visits in 2025 (up to November). While this figure is lower than last year’s 2.36 crore visits, considering the adverse impact of the Pahalgam incident in April 2025 and subsequent floods, the sustained and focused efforts of the Government have yielded encouraging and resilient outcomes," he said.
LG Sinha further said that the Government was making sustained efforts to develop world-class tourist destinations, with financial support from the Ministry of Tourism and external funding agencies.
"With a vision to explore and unlock new tourism potential, nine new tourist destinations have been identified, and projects are being prepared to develop these sites in accordance with international standards," he said.
He said the road network has witnessed substantial improvement through the execution of various programmes and schemes.
"With an overall investment of Rs 61,528 crore, construction and upgradation of one Expressway (Delhi–Amritsar–Katra), five National Highways, and two Ring Roads for Jammu and Srinagar cities are in progress," LG Sinha in his Republic Day address said.
"Three tunnels, including the Sonamarg Tunnel, have been completed, while eight tunnels, including the Zojila Tunnel, are at advanced stages of completion," he said.
He said these initiatives have significantly enhanced connectivity and reduced travel time, particularly on the Srinagar–Jammu corridor.
"The Narbal–Shopian–Surankote road, with a spur to Magam–Gulmarg (196.50 km), has recently been declared a National Highway," he said.
He said to further strengthen connectivity, the Government of India has sanctioned 19 new National Highway projects during 2025–26, at an estimated cost of ₹10,637 crore.
"These include key projects such as the Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, Sadhna Tunnel, four-lane flyover from Lal Chowk to Parimpora Junction, and the four-lane Magam Flyover on the Narbal–Gulmarg section," he said.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). “About a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,” he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.“If we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,” he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeeb’s research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. “In this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,” he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. “It is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,” he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,” he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. “My parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,” he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. “Just as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.” “Young people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,” he further added.
Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the result of class 10th and 12th examination on January 14 of, 2026 (Wednesday), minister for education Sakina Itoo said on Monday. Minister for education Sakina Itoo said the government has decided to declare the result of both the classes-10th and 12th on the same day. "We understand that students have been waiting for the results. So we decided that result of both the classes will be declared on Wednesday (January 16 of 2926)," Sakina Itoo said. She said the meeting of the Result Declaration Committee (RDC) will be convened by the Secretary JKBOE along with the members-Director School Education (DSE) Kashmir and Jammu division besides the joint secretaries as well. "We will give the administrative approval to the result instead of getting approved by the chairman," she said. The announcement comes amid the delay in appointment of chairman JKBOSE as the position is lying vacant for the last one year. "After declaration of the results, we will also appoint the permanent chairman for JKBOSE as well," education minister said. An official from JKBOSE said the class 1oth result will be declared on Wednesday morning followed by the declaration of result of class 12th students in late afternoon on the same day. As per the official figures, 94783 students- 68804 from Kashmir and 25,224 students from winter zone areas of Jammu division besides 660 students from Kargil and 95 from Leh district registered for the class 10th JKBOSE examination this year. Also, the examination for class 11th and 12th students was scheduled from November 19 and November 8 of 2025 respectively. Approximately, 81622 students – 64001 from Jammu and 17621 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 11th examination while 70117 students—56423 from Kashmir and 13694 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 12th examination.
'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.
Srinagar, Jan 17: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Saturday strongly condemned PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti’s statement suggesting that if religious places are to be “profiled”, the process should start with temples and Hindu priests, instead of mosques and Imams. Inam Un Nabi said AIP was categorically against profiling of any religious place, irrespective of faith or community and such statements only deepen mistrust and polarisation in society. “Let it be Masjids and Imaams or temples and priests, profiling of religious institutions is unacceptable. AIP rejects it completely. Had the issue involved only temples or priests, AIP would have shown the same resentment and protest as we do for Masjids and Imaams,” he said. The AIP spokesperson said faith is a matter of personal conscience and religious belief and it should not be dragged into a culture of surveillance or administrative interference. “We do not want policing of faith. The role of the administration is to ensure peace and law and order, not to monitor religious identity or religious spaces,” Inam Un Nabi added. He appealed to all political parties to act responsibly and avoid statements that pit one community against another, stressing that Kashmir has a long history of communal harmony which must be protected. “AIP stands for dignity, equality and justice for all. We will oppose any attempt that targets places of worship, whichever religion it belongs to,” he said.
Jammu, Jan 18: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma Sunday said that the remarkable achievements of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth are a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through fair opportunities, modern infrastructure and unwavering government support. Addressing the gathering during the SRIJAN initiative conference, the Minister stated that the success of young athletes clearly demonstrates that with the right ecosystem in place, the UT youth are capable of overcoming every challenge and competing confidently at national and international platforms. Highlighting the core focus areas of the SRIJAN programme, Satish Sharma said "the initiative is playing a transformative role in strengthening the sports landscape of the Union Territory by expanding grassroots sports infrastructure across Jammu, Kashmir and other regions. This is being done by ensuring transparent, merit-based selections free from any bias; integrating sports with education and skill development; promoting greater participation of girls and enhancing inclusivity and establishing sports as a dignified and sustainable career option with viable livelihood opportunities, he said0. He reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment and said that sustained efforts were underway to create international-standard sports facilities, including modern cricket stadiums in Jammu and Srinagar. He also highlighted the strengthening of Khelo India Centres, promotion of traditional sports such as Dangal and enhanced collaboration with the Union Ministry to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a national sports hub. “As Sports Minister, I assure our athletes that the government stands firmly with them. Our focus is not only on infrastructure creation but also on nurturing talent, discipline and confidence among the youth,” he said. The Minister lauded the determination, resilience and dedication of young sportspersons, describing them as the living legacy of the SRIJAN mission. He urged them to continue training with passion, remain disciplined and dream fearlessly, assuring them of full institutional support at every step of their journey. Satish Sharma expressed hope that the conference would serve as the foundation of a new era where every talented child, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu, is provided an equal opportunity to shine on the global stage. He concluded by reiterating the government’s resolve to make sports a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, social inclusion and regional pride in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta and prominent persons from different fields and states along with senior officers of the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also present on the occasion.
Says India’s water resources will now be utilised for India’s development Srinagar, Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on Monday said that India’s response to terrorism was rational, restrained, rooted in legitimate right to self-defence. In his address at the 77th Republic Day in Jammu, LG Manoj Sinha aid that terrorist networks will be completely neutralized whether they operate across the border or within it. "India has firmly drawn a new red line. The success of Operation Sindoor has instilled renewed confidence among citizens that our brave soldiers remain vigilant and fully committed to their protection," he said. He said Operation Sindoor sent a clear signal to the international community that India’s actions are rational, restrained, and rooted in its legitimate right to self-defence. "Whether terrorist networks operate across the border or within it, they will be completely neutralized," he said. He said that Operation Sindoor continues, with every hostile move being closely monitored. "As part of non-kinetic measures, India has terminated the Indus Water Treaty, delivering a strong message that bloodshed and cooperation cannot coexist," he said. He said that India’s water resources will now be utilized for India’s development. "I express my sincere gratitude to all members of the armed forces, police, paramilitary units, and civil administration who upheld the nation’s pride through their duty, dedication, and bravery during Operation Sindoor," he said. He said that following the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor emerged as a defining moment in India’s national security doctrine. "India made it unequivocally clear that any terrorist attack on its soil would be treated as an act of war. Operation Sindoor was not merely a military action; it was a declaration of India’s strategic resolve," LG Manoj Sinha said. "We struck at the heart of the enemy, dismantled their terror infrastructure, exposed the hollowness of nuclear threats, and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to protecting national sovereignty," he said. LG Sinha said that through Operation Sindoor, India conveyed to the world that every act of terrorism and every attempt to support it will be met with a decisive response. He paid heartfelt tributes to all civilians who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terrorist attack. "I also commend the personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and the Indian Army who, through Operation Mahadev, eliminated the three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack and delivered justice for the dignity of our mothers and sisters," he said. He appreciated the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) for uncovering a nationwide terror network last November and preventing several attacks in time. "They are India’s true heroes, and I am proud of them. With deep respect and gratitude, I honour the martyrs of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army," he said. LG Sinha said the entire nation remains indebted to JK security forces and their families while their sacrifices will never be forgotten. "I also offer my heartfelt condolences to the police and civil administration personnel who lost their lives in the unfortunate accidental explosion in Nowgam," he said. He said the debt owed to those who secured peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir with their blood can never be repaid. "On this solemn occasion, we must pledge to remember their sacrifice and fulfill their dream of a peaceful, fearless, and developed Jammu and Kashmir," LG Sinha said.
Srinagar, Jan 25: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said that the timely snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir has brought relief after a prolonged dry spell and is expected to prevent water shortages during the upcoming summer months. Talking to media persons in Banihal while travelling by road from Srinagar to Jammu, the Chief Minister said he inspected the condition of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and also held discussions with the local MLA of Banihal. “There was some minor inconvenience due to snowfall, but that will be resolved soon," CM Omar Abdullah told reporters here. "We should thank Allah that the snowfall occurred at the right time," he said. Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir was facing drought-like conditions after December, which has now ended. He expressed hope that the recent snowfall would ensure adequate water availability in the coming months, adding that prayers of the people have been answered. The Chief Minister further said that restoration work on NH-44 is progressing at a fast pace. He said electricity supply has been restored in most areas, while efforts are underway to restore power in remote districts that witnessed heavy snowfall. “In some far-flung areas, restoration is taking slightly longer due to heavy snow, but the administration has assured me that electricity will be restored in all areas by this evening,” he said. On upcoming budget, Omar Abdullah said it would be people-centric and beneficial for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. “Please wait for the budget. It will be for the benefit of the people,” he said.
Jammu, Jan 23: The Traffic Police Rural Jammu on Thursday issued a traffic advisory urging motorists to remain extremely cautious while travelling. The advisory has been issued in view of heavy rain and snowfall reported from various areas of Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch districts, An official spokesperson of Traffic Police Rural Jammu said that drivers have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly during peak rainfall and snowfall hours, and to strictly adhere to safety norms to prevent accidents. The advisory urges commuters to drive at reduced speeds, maintain safe distance from other vehicles and refrain from crossing flooded roads, nallahs or waterlogged low-lying areas. Motorists have also been cautioned to remain alert on landslide-prone stretches, hill roads and sharp curves, which may pose serious risks during inclement weather. Drivers have been asked to ensure that headlights, windscreen wipers and braking systems of their vehicles are in proper working condition. Two-wheeler riders have been specifically advised to wear helmets and avoid riding close to slippery road edges. The Traffic Police further appealed to the public to strictly follow the instructions of the Traffic Police and District Administration. Any traffic diversions or restrictions, if necessitated by weather conditions, will be communicated in a timely manner. The advisory has been issued in the interest of public safety to ensure protection of life and property. The public has been urged to remain alert and cooperate with the authorities.
