Jammu/Srinagar, Aug 14: Security was intensified across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, a day ahead of Independence Day celebrations, with police and security forces mounting extensive checks, patrols and surveillance across border districts, highways and other vulnerable locations. Vehicles were subjected to checking at multiple points while security personnel maintained heightened vigil around major roads, sensitive installations and venues where Independence Day functions are scheduled. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have also been deployed at strategic locations. Security has been reinforced along the Jammu-Srinagar and Jammu-Pathankot national highways, while border roads and other vital approaches are under close surveillance through CCTV and other monitoring mechanisms. A multi-tier security grid comprising the Army, BSF and Jammu and Kashmir Police has been established along the Line of Control and International Border. In Jammu, the main Independence Day function will be held at Maulana Azad Stadium, where Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary will unfurl the national flag and take the salute. In Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will preside over the main function at Bakshi Stadium. Police and paramilitary personnel have been positioned at strategic points, with access control, frisking and vehicle checks intensified around the venues. Security agencies are maintaining surveillance over approaches to the celebration sites and other sensitive locations. Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, along with Deputy Inspectors General, has chaired a series of security review meetings across the Jammu region during the past week. Officers were directed to ensure foolproof security around celebration venues and adequate deployment of forces at all flag-hoisting locations. The heightened security comes as the region witnesses a surge in patriotic activities, including Tiranga Yatras, Har Ghar Tiranga campaigns and Independence Day programmes. The Tricolour has been prominently displayed atop houses and public buildings across towns and villages.

Jammu, Aug 13: In a major relief for pilgrims and passengers travelling from western India, the Railway Board has approved the extension of the Sabarmati–Jammu Tawi Express up to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The extended service will run via Jammu and halt at Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan railway station in Udhampur before terminating at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi railway station, Katra. The move is expected to significantly ease the journey of thousands of passengers from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab and other parts of western India who currently have to disembark at Jammu Tawi and arrange separate road transport to reach Katra. With the extension, passengers will be able to travel directly to Katra without changing trains or making separate arrangements for the final leg of their journey. The move is expected to cut travel time, reduce additional expenditure and make the pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi shrine more convenient. The Jammu division of Northern Railway said the decision would provide a major boost to rail connectivity to the shrine and further facilitate religious tourism in the region. The commencement date of the extended service will be announced separately after finalisation of operational arrangements. Railway authorities have advised passengers to check the IRCTC website, mobile application and station enquiry counters for reservation details and the latest status of the service. The extension comes as a significant step towards strengthening direct rail connectivity to Katra and easing the growing movement of pilgrims to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

Srinagar, Aug 11: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness another spell of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the Jammu division on Wednesday, with the weather department warning of flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas. The Meteorological Centre said one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places across the Union Territory on August 12. However, some districts of the Jammu division could receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, while isolated areas of Kashmir may experience brief spells of intense showers, it said. The advisory comes after several parts of the Jammu region received significant rainfall during the past 24 hours. Kathua KVK recorded the highest rainfall of 156 mm, followed by Jammu with 79 mm, Katra 71 mm and Samba 55 mm, according to the weather department. The department said the prevailing wet spell is likely to continue in a subdued form between August 13 and 16, with light to moderate rain and thundershowers possible at many places and brief intense showers at isolated locations. ANOTHER WET SPELL EXPECTED BETWEEN Aug 17-19 Another spell of wet weather is expected between August 17 and 19, when heavy rain or brief intense showers could occur in a few districts, particularly during the early morning and afternoon hours. The weather is expected to improve thereafter, with only light rain or thundershowers possible at scattered places between August 20 and 22, according to the forecast. The MeT office cautioned that torrential rain and brief intense showers could trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas. SRINAGAR RECORDS 33 C, JAMMU 31.2 C   Meanwhile, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 33 degrees Celsius on Monday, three degrees above the normal for this time of the year. Its minimum temperature was 21.6 degrees Celsius, also three degrees above normal. Among other stations, Qazigund recorded a maximum of 30.6 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 33.3, Pahalgam 25.5, Kokernag 29.2 and Gulmarg 24.5 degrees Celsius. In the Jammu region, Jammu recorded a maximum temperature of 31.2 degrees Celsius, nearly two degrees below normal, while its minimum temperature was 22 degrees Celsius, more than three degrees below normal. Katra received 71.1 mm of rain during the 24-hour period ending Tuesday morning, while Jammu recorded 79 mm during the same period. The Met department has advised people, particularly those living in landslide- and flood-prone areas, to remain alert during periods of intense rainfall. (KNO

Budgam, Aug 7: The Private Schools Association J&K, in collaboration with Civil Defence Budgam Thursday organised a day-long session on Basic Life Support (BLS) Training Programme at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hall, Budgam.  The programme witnessed the participation of school representatives, drivers, support staff, volunteers, and other stakeholders with the aim of promoting life-saving skills and emergency preparedness. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, emphasized that BLS  training was s an essential life skill that empowers ordinary citizens to respond effectively during medical emergencies. He appreciated the initiative of the PSAJK and Civil Defence Budgam for creating awareness about CPR and emergency response, stating that timely intervention can save countless lives. He urged educational institutions to ensure that such training programmes are conducted regularly. Earlier, President PSAJK Baba Nazrul Islam delivered the welcome address and highlighted the commitment of PSAJK to promoting safety, health awareness, and disaster preparedness in educational institutions. He expressed gratitude to Civil Defence Budgam and all collaborating organizations for their support in making the programme successful. Addressing the gathering, Amara Naseem, Deputy Controller Civil Defence Budgam, stressed the importance of public awareness regarding Basic Life Support, CPR, choking management, and first aid.  She said that Civil Defence remains committed to building a trained and resilient community capable of responding to emergencies before professional medical assistance arrives. Chief Education Officer (CEO) Budgam, Bashir Ahmad, appreciated the initiative and said that teachers, school staff, drivers, and helpers are often the first responders in school emergencies.  He encouraged all educational institutions to actively participate in such training programmes to ensure a safer learning environment for students. State Coordinator,Tariq Hussain Bali, said that awareness and preparedness are the foundation of disaster risk reduction. He highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among educational institutions, government departments, and civil society organizations to strengthen community resilience through continuous capacity-building programmes. Rahi Riyaz Ahmed Divisional Warden Civil Defence Srinagar and TOT Kashmir, delivered an informative session on BLS and emphasised that every individual should be equipped with the knowledge of CPR, choking management, and emergency response techniques. He said that immediate and correct action during the first few minutes of an emergency can significantly increase the chances of survival. He encouraged participants to practice these life-saving skills regularly and share the knowledge within their communities. In his vote of thanks, Shahnawaz Ahmad District President PSAJK Budgam expressed gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Civil Defence Budgam, CEO Budgam, trainers, organizers, and all participants for their wholehearted support and cooperation. He reaffirmed the Association's commitment to organizing more such awareness and capacity-building programmes in the future. The programme concluded with practical demonstrations of CPR and other BLS techniques by Civil Defence trainers, followed by an interactive session where participants actively engaged with the resource persons. The event received an enthusiastic response and reinforced the importance of equipping communities with essential life-saving skills.

Srinagar, Aug 6:  Strengthening its commitment to financial security across the nation, SBI Life Insurance will enable families across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to take a step closer towards securing their financial future. SBI Life Insurance, one of India’s leading life insurers, today announced a strategic corporate agency tie-up with J&K Bank (Jammu & Kashmir Bank), a Scheduled Commercial Bank and one of the oldest private sector banks in India. "Now, customers can walk into any of J&K Bank's 1,000-plus branches across the region and access SBI Life's full range of life insurance solutions, from protection and savings plans to retirement and child plans, tailored to suit their evolving financial needs and life stage," an official handout reads. For many households in the region, this means trusted financial protection is now available at the same branch they already bank with. The corporate agency agreement was signed by Budhaditya Banerjee Regional Manager- Institutional Alliances, Chandigarh Region and  Masood Ahmad Lankar, DGM Cross Selling, J&K Bank in the presence of Santosh Chacko, President – Business Strategy, SBI Life Insurance, Anita Nehru , GM DAC & Cross Selling, J&K Bank.  At a time when financial security and long-term planning are becoming increasingly critical for households across India, this alliance combines SBI Life's expertise with J&K Bank's deep roots and relationships across the region, to make life insurance simpler to understand, easier to access, and more relevant to everyday financial planning, helping families plan with greater confidence for whatever lies ahead. The partnership advances financial inclusion in line with the IRDAI’s vision of 'Insurance for All by 2047', extending long-term financial security to communities that have historically had limited access to it. Speaking on the partnership,  Amit Jhingran, MD & CEO, SBI Life Insurance, said, “At SBI Life, our purpose is rooted in helping individuals and families build financial resilience and approach the future with greater confidence." He said their partnership with J&K Bank reflects a shared commitment to deepening insurance awareness and strengthening the culture of financial protection for households across the nation. "Life insurance plays a critical role in ensuring financial continuity and safeguarding family aspirations," he said. He added this collaboration will further reinforce its importance in everyday financial planning. "We are proud to support the national vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ and contribute meaningfully to building a financially secure society," he said. Commenting on the collaboration, MD & CEO, J&K Bank Amitava Chatterjee said, "Guided by our philosophy of 'socially empowering banking', we remain committed to catalyzing economic and social transformation across the communities we serve. The addition of SBI Life to our portfolio of insurance partners enhances our ability to offer customers a wider range of competitive, need-based life insurance solutions, enabling them to choose products best suited to their unique financial needs. He further added that by bringing together the strengths of two trusted institutions, this collaboration further reinforces our customer-centric approach and enhances our ability to deliver greater value through the Bank's extensive network across the country. "It also builds upon the enduring trust that J&K Bank has nurtured over decades, beginning in its core geographies of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and extending across its operational footprint nationwide," he added. Commenting on the tie-up,  Santosh Chacko, President – Business Strategy, SBI Life Insurance, said insurance is fundamentally about building financial dignity and ensuring that families remain protected through life’s uncertainties. "Through this partnership, we want life insurance to be seen not merely as a product, but as an essential pillar of responsible financial well-being, which aligns with our philosophy of ‘Apne Liye, Apno Ke Liye’, where securing one’s future goes hand in hand with protecting the aspirations of loved ones," he said. Through this association, SBI Life Insurance and J&K Bank aim to enhance insurance penetration across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, promote financial literacy and awareness, and help more households across the region feel prepared and protected for the future.

Baramulla, Aug 3: Minister for social welfare department, Sakina Itoo Monday said the government has prepared a cabinet memorandum to provide compassionate appointments to the relatives of Anganwadi workers and helpers who die while in service. Addressing an awareness programme in Baramulla, Sakina Itoo said the proposal seeks to ensure that a family member of a deceased Anganwadi worker or helper is given priority for appointment without the need for a fresh advertisement.  She said the cabinet memo is ready and will be taken up for further approval. The minister acknowledged that Anganwadi workers and helpers continue to receive a low honorarium, but said successive National Conference governments have taken steps to improve their welfare.  She said the honorarium was enhanced during the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah between 2008 and 2014, and that the present government is committed to ensuring they receive a better share and that Anganwadi centres receive greater budgetary support. She praised the contribution of Anganwadi workers and said they have continued to serve people even during difficult times and deserve recognition for their role in implementing welfare schemes at the grassroots level. She also said the government is examining issues related to the service conditions of Anganwadi workers. Referring to changes made after 2019, the minister said the earlier system was altered by introducing a retirement age, a decision she termed incorrect, adding that the government is working to address the matter. (KNO)

Baramulla, Aug 3: MLA Baramulla Javed Hassan Baigh on Monday stressed that the primary responsibility of the government and its institutions is to ensure justice, equity and dignity for all sections of society, particularly persons with disabilities, asserting that governance must translate available resources into meaningful support for those most in need. Speaking during an awareness programme organised by Mission Poshan J&K at Dak Bungalow Baramulla, MLA Baramulla said the governance framework comprises elected representatives who formulate policies, government officers who facilitate their implementation, and field-level workers who execute welfare programmes. He said the ultimate objective of this system should be to establish justice in society through equitable access to opportunities and public services. Referring to persons with disabilities present at the event, the MLA said their circumstances pose an important challenge before society, the government and constitutional institutions, requiring a collective response to ensure equality and inclusion. He said the real test for the administration is whether state institutions can provide justice and equal opportunities to those facing physical challenges. Baigh appreciated the initiatives highlighted by the Minister for Social Welfare during the programme, stating that the minister's visit was aimed at ensuring that government resources reach deserving beneficiaries and help integrate them into society with dignity and equal status. The MLA said the discussions during the meeting focused on improving the delivery of welfare measures and addressing issues affecting vulnerable sections of society. He expressed hope that the deliberations would lead to concrete outcomes and strengthen efforts to make government support more accessible and effective for eligible beneficiaries.

Srinagar, Jul 22: Continuing its efforts to ensure adherence to the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and applicable rules/regulations, the Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K carried out food safety enforcement and surveillance activities across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. A total of 121 inspections of Food Business Operators (FBOs), including 06 dairy processing units, were conducted in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Rajouri, Kathua, Srinagar, Anantnag, Ganderbal, Bandipore, Kupwara, Baramulla and Budgam districts of the Union territory.  During the drive, 70 food samples were collected for analysis. The samples included Paneer (06), Ghee (04), Prepared Foods (05), Honey (02), Milk (21), Edible Oil (10), Ice Cream (02), Spices (15), and Cereal Products (05). As part of its surveillance programme, the Organization also collected 19 surveillance samples from ICDS and Public Distribution System (PDS) Centre’s to monitor the quality and safety of food. In addition, 08 imported food samples were subjected to label scrutiny to verify compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Regulations. During the enforcement drive, 04 Food Business Operators (FBOs) were compounded under Section 69 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 for violations of sanitary and hygiene requirements, and a total penalty of ₹4,000 was imposed. In addition, 05 Improvement Notices were issued to Food Business Operators for rectification of deficiencies observed during inspections. Consumers have been advised to remain vigilant while purchasing milk and milk products and to report any suspected cases of unsafe, adulterated, or substandard food through the Toll-Free Helpline No. 104 or by email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.

Srinagar, Jul 19: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference on Sunday expressed deep grief and anguish over the loss of precious lives and widespread devastation caused by recent cloudbursts and flash floods across various parts of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, describing the calamity as a matter of grave concern requiring immediate and sustained administrative attention. In a statement issued here, a party spokesperson said the JKPC extends heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the tragedy, and prayed for the swift recovery of those injured in the disaster.  "This is an hour of immense grief for our people, especially for the communities of Rajouri and Poonch, who have borne the brunt of this calamity. The devastation wrought by the cloudbursts and flash floods has shattered homes and hopes alike and it is our collective responsibility to stand by the affected families in this hour of need," the spokesperson said. The party urged the administration to intensify rescue and relief operations on a war footing in Rajouri and Poonch, with particular emphasis on reaching remote, hilly and inaccessible villages where communication and connectivity have been severely disrupted.  It further urged authorities to ensure the timely and safe evacuation of residents in vulnerable and flood-prone localities of these two districts, so as to avert any further loss of life. The spokesperson said essential assistance, including food, clean drinking water, shelter, medical aid and other basic necessities, must be provided without delay to all affected families in Rajouri and Poonch. Emphasising the need for a fair and transparent process going forward, JKPC demanded that the government carry out an impartial and comprehensive assessment of the damage caused to houses, crops, livestock and other property in Rajouri, Poonch and adjoining areas.

Srinagar, Jul 19: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has voiced profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage caused by the devastating flash floods that struck parts of Rajouri and Poonch following torrential rains. In a statement issued today, Mehbooba Mufti said the unfolding humanitarian crisis has left families shattered, displaced thousands, and caused significant damage to homes, roads and other public infrastructure. She expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured. She urged the administration to mount an all-out relief and rescue operation by deploying adequate manpower, specialised machinery and emergency resources in the worst-affected areas without delay. “The scale of destruction demands an extraordinary response. Every available agency must work in close coordination to reach stranded families, evacuate those at risk and ensure that relief reaches every affected household,” she said. Mehbooba Mufti stressed that rescue efforts must be complemented with immediate humanitarian assistance, including temporary shelter, food, drinking water, medical aid and other essential supplies for displaced families. She also called for urgent restoration of road connectivity, electricity and communication services to facilitate relief operations. The PDP President further demanded that the government undertake a comprehensive assessment of the losses suffered by residents and announce a fair compensation and rehabilitation package for the families of the deceased, the injured and those whose homes, businesses and agricultural lands have been damaged. Expressing solidarity with the affected people, Mehbooba Mufti said Jammu and Kashmir has repeatedly witnessed the devastating impact of natural disasters and emphasised that the government’s response must be swift, compassionate and commensurate with the gravity of the situation. She also appreciated the efforts of rescue personnel, local volunteers and residents assisting those in distress, expressing hope that the ongoing operations would help prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of the affected families.

Srinagar, Jul 17: The Department of Youth Services & Sports (DYSS) has issued a clarification with regard to the statements made by Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh, a Wushu athlete. Singh made his statement on various media platforms alleging injustice in relation to his non-selection under S.O.-12 of 2022, which governs the appointment of outstanding sports persons. In wake of this, the Department has acknowledged tha Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh represented India and the J&K UT in Wushu and secured medals during his sporting career. "The achievements of every athlete who has represented the nation are respected. However, appointments under S.O.-12 of 2022 are governed strictly by the statutory provisions contained therein, and eligibility is determined exclusively in accordance with those Rules rather than on sporting achievements alone," the statement reads. Singh had submitted an application seeking appointment under S.O.-12 of 2022. "As part of the recruitment process, all applications underwent detailed scrutiny and verification through the concerned National and International Sports Federations and other competent authorities to establish the authenticity of sporting achievements and the eligibility of applicants under the notified Rules," the statement reads. The statement reads that during the verification, it was established that Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh had been held guilty of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation by the International Wushu Federation (IWUF) Anti-Doping Disciplinary Committee in Doping Case No. 2018-IC-01 (Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh), vide its decision dated 04 June 2019. "The disciplinary decision categorically recorded the presence of the prohibited substances Mephentermine and Phentermine in the athlete's sample," it reads. Consequently, under Article 10.2 of the IWUF Anti-Doping Rules, Singh was declared ineligible, subjected to a period of ban, and all competitive results obtained at the concerned event stood disqualified, including forfeiture of medals, awards, prizes, ranking points and all other consequential sporting benefits, it reads. "He was also prohibited from participating in any competition or sport-related activity during the prescribed period," the statement reads. The Department further said that every applicant under S.O.-12 of 2022 was required to furnish a declaration affirming that they had not been found guilty of any Anti-Doping Rule Violation. "Despite the existence of the above international disciplinary decision, Singh submitted a declaration stating that he had not been found guilty of any Anti-Doping Rule Violation," the statement reads. The department said that the furnishing of a declaration contrary to the official record raised serious concerns regarding the correctness and bona fides of the information supplied. "Government recruitment processes are founded upon transparency, candour and truthful disclosure, and any incorrect declaration carries legal consequences under the applicable Rules," it reads. It said that Rule 4(ii) of S.O.-12 of 2022 expressly provides that any applicant found guilty of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation shall stand disqualified from the selection process. "The Rule is mandatory in nature and leaves no discretion with the Selection Committee." The department clarified that the selection committee constituted under Rule 3(2) of S.O.-12 of 2022 was empowered only to scrutinize applications in accordance with the notified Rules. "It possesses no statutory authority to relax, dilute, ignore or reinterpret the disqualification prescribed under Rule 4(ii)," the statement reads. "Any decision contrary to the express provisions of the Rules would itself have been illegal, arbitrary and inconsistent with the principles governing public employment." The department said that Singh availed the remedy before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the internationally recognized appellate forum for sports disputes, challenging the disciplinary action arising out of the Anti-Doping proceedings. "The challenge did not result in the Anti-Doping findings being set aside. Consequently, the findings recorded by the competent Anti-Doping authority continued to remain valid, operative and binding," the statement reads. The department further clarified that the decision regarding Singh's disqualification was neither mechanical nor unilateral. "In strict adherence to the principles of natural justice, he was afforded a reasonable opportunity of being heard and was permitted to submit his representation along with all supporting documents. His representation was duly examined on its merits by the competent authority in light of the applicable statutory provisions governing the recruitment process," it reads. Upon a comprehensive examination of the facts, official records and the governing provisions of S.O.-12 of 2022, the competent authority concluded that the statutory disqualification prescribed under Rule 4(ii) squarely applied in the present case. Accordingly, Singh's representation was disposed of through a reasoned order, and the grounds for his disqualification were duly communicated to him. "Therefore, any allegation that the department acted arbitrarily or without affording due process is factually incorrect, unfounded and contrary to the official record." The department reiterated that where a statutory Rule expressly prescribes a disqualification, neither the Selection Committee nor any administrative authority has the power to override, dilute or ignore such mandate on equitable or sympathetic considerations. "The department is duty-bound to implement the Rules exactly as notified and cannot extend any benefit expressly prohibited under law," the statement reads. The department further reiterated that recruitment under S.O.-12 of 2022 has been conducted strictly in accordance with the notified Rules after multi-level scrutiny and verification by the competent authorities. "Every applicant has been assessed uniformly on the basis of the prescribed statutory eligibility conditions without exception," it reads The department also advised all stakeholders to refrain from circulating misleading or incomplete narratives that overlook the binding statutory framework governing the recruitment process.  "Public confidence in institutions is strengthened through adherence to the rule of law and the complete presentation of facts." "The Government of Jammu & Kashmir remains fully committed to promoting clean sport and recognizing deserving athletes who uphold the highest standards of integrity, fairness and sportsmanship," the statement reads.

Banihal, Jul 8: The seventh batch of 9,837 pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Wednesday under tight security arrangements, officials said. Light rainfall across Ramban district and adjoining areas till midnight brought much-needed respite from the prevailing heat, making the weather pleasant for pilgrims and residents alike. The improved weather conditions also contributed to a comfortable journey for the Yatra convoy along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. According to the Zonal Police Control Room, Jammu, the convoy was divided into two routes, with 4,480 pilgrims proceeding towards the Baltal axis and 5,357 pilgrims via the traditional Pahalgam axis. The Baltal convoy, carrying 4,480 pilgrims in 173 vehicles, departed at 4:20 a.m., while the Pahalgam convoy, comprising 5,357 pilgrims in 188 vehicles, left at 4:54 a.m. A total of 361 vehicles, including 200 buses, 58 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), and 103 light motor vehicles (LMVs), were deployed for the day's pilgrimage. Among the pilgrims were 6,684 men, 2,730 women, 21 children, 320 sadhus, 80 sadhvis, and two transgender devotees. The Yatra convoy is passing through Ramban district under elaborate security and traffic management arrangements. Authorities have put in place comprehensive measures to ensure the safe and smooth movement of pilgrims to the twin base camps at Baltal and Pahalgam.