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Operation Sheruwali Enters 40th Day; Search for Terrorists Continues in Rajouri Forests

Shivam Bakshi

Rajouri, July 1 (NVI): Security forces on Wednesday continued their anti-terror operation in the forested Dorimal area of the Gambir Mughlan-Manjakote sector in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district as the ongoing Operation Sheruwali entered its 40th day, officials said.

The operation was launched following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the upper reaches of Rajouri and has since been continuing with sustained search and surveillance efforts.

Officials said troops are carrying out coordinated combing operations in the dense forests with the support of advanced surveillance equipment to track down the suspected terrorists.

No fresh contact with the terrorists has been reported so far, they said, adding that security forces have maintained a tight cordon around the area to prevent any escape.—(NVI)

Flash Flood Cuts Off Zanskar–Kargil Road; Restoration Underway

Kargil, July 1 (NVI): The Zanskar–Kargil road was blocked on Wednesday after a flash flood struck Shafat Nallah in Kargil district, disrupting traffic on the vital route, officials said.

An official that the sudden flash flood triggered a heavy flow of debris onto the road, forcing the suspension of vehicular movement.

He said road clearance operations have been launched and efforts are underway to restore connectivity at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC), Kargil, has advised commuters to avoid the route until the road is cleared and to remain in touch with local authorities for updates on the restoration work. (NVI)

POJK: Kashmiri Agitation leader Shaukat Mir arrested, Anger mounts against Pakistan

Shaukat Nawaz Mir, who was arrested today

Rawalakot (Pakistan-occupied J&K), June 30:  Anger is mounting across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) tonight after the arrest of top Kashmiri leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir, who has been leading the ongoing agitation against the oppression being committed on locals by the occupying forces.

Mir was arrested to prevent him from reaching Rawalakot, which has become the epicentre of the nearly month-old mass uprising against Pakistan.

People in lakhs, from all over POJK, have been holding a dharna in Rawalakot since June 7, the day Pakistani forces killed and injured over 200 Kashmiris in the most brutal violent crackdown.

According to reports, even while arresting Mir who had been evasive for weeks, the Pakistani forces indulged in brutality, including firing of hundreds of rounds of bullets.

“Shaukat Nawaz Mir has been arrested but not the movement,” said the J&K Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) which he leads.

As soon as the news of his arrest spread, anger mounted at the dharna site as well as rest of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, with Kashmiris vowing to make it the final fight against Pakistan.

“Had Shaukat Nawaz Mir reached the sit-in, the morale of the people would have increased manifold, the spirit would have been higher, the number of people would have increased and a new energy would have been created everywhere…

“Unfortunately, while trying to reach the sit-in, he was arrested due to an operation by the intelligence or police and other institutions (of Pakistan)…

“But everyone should remember one thing..People’s movements do not run with the support of a single individual…This is not only Shaukat Nawaz Mir’s movement nor just that of the core members…This is the movement of the entire people,” the Awami Action Committee said in a post on X.

“Shaukat Nawaz Mir is our leader and will always remain a leader, but he himself has taught us this lesson that a movement is more important than leadership and its objectives are more important than a movement,” it said.

“He has shown us the way. Now it is the responsibility of the people to follow this path…No one arrest should dampen the morale or stop the steps.

“Today, we are stronger than ever and more than ever. It is time to unite and come out in larger numbers than before… In such a struggle, there are arrests, raids, prisons and sacrifices have to be made… This has been the history of every people’s movement…

“We are sure that Shaukat Nawaz Mir will soon be among the people again. And until then, the people will be his courage, will be his voice and will carry forward his mission… God willing, this movement will not be weakened by any arrest, but will emerge stronger than before… Ultimately, victory will be for the people.

“And defeat will be for the system of oppression, arrogance and exploitation.”

Earlier, in the day, speakers addressing the dharna repeatedly emphasised that “Kashmir is not part of Pakistan”, evoking loud cheers from the assembled people. (NVI)

Elaborate Security, Logistics in Place for Amarnath Yatra: J&K Govt

Jammu Divisional Commissioner and IGP meeting civil society members

Jammu, June 30 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Tuesday said elaborate security and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra beginning on July 3.

It urged pilgrims, who would be coming from all over the country, to strictly adhere to the prescribed cut-off timings and guidelines to ensure a smooth pilgrimage of the Holy Cave of Lord Shiva in the mountains of south Kashmir.

Addressing a press conference after interacting with civil society members, Divisional Commissioner of Jammu region Ramesh Kumar said comprehensive arrangements have been made across the five districts of Jammu division falling on the yatra route, including facilities for on-the-spot registration, RFID cards, e-KYC, accommodation, medical aid, sanitation, power, water supply and security.

He said pilgrims entering Jammu and Kashmir through Lakhanpur will be allowed between 6 am and 8 pm and those arriving after the cut-off time will be accommodated overnight at government facilities before proceeding in escorted convoys.

Kumar said pilgrims who have registered online can collect RFID cards from designated centres at Lakhanpur, Chichi Mata Temple, Samba, Jammu Railway Station, Tawi Riverfront and Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas after completing the mandatory e-KYC process.

He said yatris travelling in private vehicles must follow the traffic department’s cut-off timings to ensure they enter the Kashmir Valley during daylight hours.

The Divisional Commissioner said on-the-spot registration for the yatra will begin on Wednesday at the Tawi Riverfront in Jammu, while separate registration centres have been established for the general public and sadhus.

He said accommodation has been arranged for around 55,000 pilgrims across Jammu division through government facilities and temporary shelters, with adequate arrangements for food, drinking water, medical services, sanitation and security.

Around 2,100 toilets have also been installed at accommodation centres, transit camps and along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.

Kumar said the Tourism Department has introduced air-conditioned buses for sightseeing tours to destinations including Suchetgarh Border, Gharana Wetland, Akhnoor Fort, Bahu Fort and Mahamaya Temple, while the Transport Department has notified fixed fares for taxis, auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws to prevent overcharging.

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti said elaborate security arrangements have been put in place along the 260-km yatra route, including transit camps and langar sites.

He advised pilgrims to travel only through National Highway-44, avoid alternative routes such as Mughal Road and Dhar Road, ensure their vehicles have sufficient fuel before joining convoys and refrain from drunken driving.

The IGP also cautioned pilgrims against fake registration websites and unauthorised WhatsApp groups, asking them to use only the official Shri Amarnath Shrine Board platform for registration and related services.

Earlier, Kumar and Tuti held an interaction with representatives of civil society, religious organisations, traders, transporters, hoteliers and other stakeholders, who offered suggestions for ensuring a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.(NVI)

J-K govt designates Divisional Commissioners, IGPs as official spokespersons for Amarnath Yatra

File Photo

Srinagar, June 30 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir government has designated the Divisional Commissioners and Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) of Jammu and Kashmir as the only authorised officials to interact with the media and issue official briefings related to the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, according to an official order.

As per a circular issued by the Tourism Department on Tuesday, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, and IGP, Kashmir, will serve as the authorised spokespersons for the Kashmir division, while the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, and IGP, Jammu, will handle media briefings for the Jammu division.

The order said the designated officers will coordinate closely with the Information Department and the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board to ensure timely dissemination of verified information regarding the pilgrimage.

The government said the decision has been taken to ensure that only authentic and official information related to the Amarnath Yatra is shared with the public and to prevent the spread of misinformation during the pilgrimage.(NVI)

Amarnath Yatra arrangements at Srinagar airport reviewed

Kashmir Divisional Commissioner reviews arrangements at Srinagar airport

Srinagar, Jun 30 (NVI): Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Tuesday reviewed the arrangements at Srinagar International Airport for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to ensure smooth movement and hassle-free travel for pilgrims.

During the inspection, Garg assessed facilities including dedicated eKYC counters, the Yatra Facilitation Centre, passenger reception areas and other amenities set up for the pilgrims, officials said.

Senior officials from the civil administration, airport authorities, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CISF briefed the Divisional Commissioner on the preparedness and coordination measures put in place for the annual pilgrimage.

Garg stressed the need for close coordination among all agencies and robust communication to ensure uninterrupted services and prompt resolution of issues during the Yatra.

Officials said the administration has significantly expanded the registration infrastructure for this year’s pilgrimage. The total number of pilgrim facilitation counters has been increased from 54 in 2025 to 131 in 2026, including 59 eKYC counters, 32 RFID counters and 40 on-the-spot registration counters.

The additional registration facilities have been established at Pantha Chowk, Srinagar International Airport and Nowgam Railway Station to streamline the registration process for pilgrims, they added.

Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir, Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam and other officials accompanied the Divisional Commissioner during the inspection.(NVI)

 

CM Omar Abdullah reviews preparations for J&K’s first international film festival

 

Srinagar, Jun 30 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday reviewed preparations for the Union Territory’s first International Film Festival and said the event should help restore Kashmir’s historic position as a premier destination for filmmaking while creating opportunities for tourism, investment and the local creative economy.

Chairing a high-level meeting here, Abdullah said the proposed International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK)-2026 should evolve into a globally recognised cinematic event showcasing the region’s scenic beauty, cultural heritage and emerging creative talent.

“The festival should not be viewed merely as a film event but as a defining cultural and economic platform for Jammu and Kashmir,” the chief minister said, according to an official statement.

He stressed that the festival should generate employment, attract investment, boost tourism and strengthen the Union Territory’s position as a preferred destination for film production and cinematic tourism.

Abdullah directed officials to ensure meaningful participation of local filmmakers, writers, directors, actors, cinematographers, technicians and artisans through exhibitions, networking sessions and business engagements.

He also called for structured interactions between local talent and leading national and international filmmakers through workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions and mentoring sessions to provide exposure and build industry linkages.

The chief minister asked organisers to institute a special segment honouring actors, filmmakers, producers, cinematographers, musicians and other personalities who have contributed to keeping Jammu and Kashmir’s cinematic legacy alive over the decades.

Officials informed the meeting that the proposed four-day festival, scheduled for September 2026, will feature international and Indian cinema, documentaries, short films, student films, animation, regional cinema, workshops and industry forums.

The meeting also reviewed plans for a dedicated digital platform, including an AI-enabled mobile application and festival website for registrations, film submissions, accreditation and audience engagement.

Abdullah directed all departments to work in close coordination to ensure timely completion of preparations for the inaugural edition of the festival.(NVI)

General Dhiraj Seth takes charge as Army chief, succeeds Upendra Dwivedi

New Delhi, Jun 30 (NVI): General Dhiraj Seth on Tuesday assumed charge as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff, succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after more than four decades of distinguished service in the Indian Army.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, General Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986 and has served the Army for nearly four decades across operational, strategic and capability development assignments.

During his career, he commanded an Armoured Regiment in the desert sector, an Armoured Brigade in the western theatre and a Counter-Insurgency Force in Jammu and Kashmir. As a Lieutenant General, he headed the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, one of the Army’s premier strike formations, and later served as General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area.

Before taking over as the Army chief, General Seth commanded both the South Western Command and the Southern Command, becoming one of the few officers to head two operational Army Commands.

He also held several key appointments at Army Headquarters, where he played a major role in strategic planning, capability development and force modernisation, contributing to the Army’s long-term transformation initiatives.

A graduate of the Higher Command Course and the National Defence College, General Seth also attended the prestigious Command and Staff Course in Paris.

He takes over as the Army chief at a time when the force is pursuing modernisation and capacity enhancement while maintaining operational readiness along the country’s sensitive borders.—(NVI)

Man held in Jammu for facilitating infiltration of terrorists

Man held for facilitating infiltration of terrorists

By Shivam Bakshi

Jammu, Jun 30 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Police has arrested a man, accused of facilitating infiltration of terrorists from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).

The accused, described as an Overground Worker (OGW), was apprehended during an operation in Kathua district of Jammu region, police officials said.

He is suspected to have assisted terrorists in infiltrating into the Union Territory, a senior police officer said.

The arrest comes amid intensified anti-terror operations being carried out by security forces ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra.

Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain the extent of the accused’s involvement and identify any other links in the alleged terror support network.

Further details are awaited, officials said.—(NVI)

CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates J&K international buyer-seller meet, pitches for export-led growth

Srinagar, Jun 29 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday inaugurated a two-day international buyer-seller meet here and said the government is committed to transforming the Union Territory into a globally competitive export hub by expanding market access for artisans, women self-help groups (SHGs) and entrepreneurs.

The event, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (J&K TPO) in association with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), has attracted over 30 domestic and international buyers from more than 14 countries.

Addressing the gathering, Abdullah said the buyer-seller platform would help diversify Jammu and Kashmir’s export basket, create new exporters from rural areas and strengthen partnerships with global markets.

He said the region has a long history of exporting its products, with tourists often acting as informal ambassadors of Kashmiri handicrafts by taking locally made products abroad, but changing circumstances and a prolonged decline in tourism had forced artisans to actively seek new markets.

The chief minister said structured buyer-seller meets were aimed at reconnecting local producers with national and international markets and that the current edition had expanded participation to include women SHGs, rural entrepreneurs and artisans from remote areas.

Noting that nearly 98 per cent of Jammu and Kashmir’s exports currently originate from just four districts, Abdullah said there was immense untapped export potential in the rest of the Union Territory.

He said achieving higher export targets would require creating a new generation of exporters by connecting producers from rural and underserved areas with international buyers.

The chief minister also highlighted the “Know Your Artisan” initiative, which enables buyers to directly interact with craftsmen, saying such engagement adds value to handmade products and strengthens their appeal in global markets.

The two-day event features over 100 handicraft, handloom and agro-food products from across Jammu and Kashmir, along with more than 20 live demonstrations by artisans.

Senior government officials, exporters, entrepreneurs, women SHGs, foreign delegates and trade representatives attended the inaugural session.(NVI)

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