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Three drug smugglers booked, Fraudster detained in Ananatnag district

Representational Image

NVI Correspondent,

Srinagar, Dec 27 (NVI): In a major crackdown on crime, Anantnag Police have intensified their efforts to curb drug trafficking and fraudulent activities in the area.

Three notorious drug smugglers have been booked under the stringent Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act, while a habitual fraudster has been detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

The arrested drug smugglers have been identified as: Zubair Ahmad Ganie, son of Mohammad Ramzan Ganie, a resident of Gund Bagh Seer Hamdan, who was involved in case FIR No. 04/2024 under the NDPS Act at Police Station Mattan.

Bashir Ahmad Khan, son of Mohammad Yousuf Khan, a resident of Gopalpora Mattan, implicated in case FIR No. 89/2024 under the NDPS Act at Police Station Mattan.

Sartaj Ahmad Bhat, son of Abdul Rashid Bhat, a resident of Tulkhan Bijbehara, involved in case FIR No. 14/2024 under the NDPS Act at Police Station Bijbehara.

These individuals were reportedly involved in large-scale drug trafficking operations, posing a grave threat to public safety and social harmony. Their preventive detention under the PIT NDPS Act aims to curb their illegal activities and safeguard the community.

In another development, police have detained Bilal Ahmad Lone, alias Dr. Bilal, son of Mohammad Akbar Lone, a resident of Maratgam, Handwara, under the Public Safety Act. Known for his involvement in multiple fraudulent activities, Lone has been accused of causing widespread public distress through his schemes.

The Anantnag Police emphasized their commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes, fraud, and other illegal activities from the region. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through designated helplines.

“With the cooperation of the public, we can build a safer and drug-free society,” a police spokesperson said (News Vibes of India)

Farooq Abdullah remembers Manmohan Singh for his efforts in rehabilitating Kashmiri Pandits

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 27(NVI): National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, highlighting his significant contributions to the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.

Speaking to the media, Abdullah acknowledged the depth of Dr. Singh’s commitment to the welfare of the displaced community, saying, “If there was anyone who took steps to rehabilitate our Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmir, it was Dr. Manmohan Singh.”

Abdullah elaborated on the challenges faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community, who had been displaced from the Valley during the insurgency in the 1990s. He praised Dr. Singh for his foresight in addressing their plight. “Dr. Singh took tangible steps to help the Kashmiri Pandit community return to their homeland. His initiatives were not just promises, but concrete actions that offered hope for a better future,” Abdullah added.

The National Conference leader also reflected on Dr. Singh’s pragmatic approach to the region’s problems, stating, “Only those who work are criticized, but Dr. Singh’s efforts for the welfare of the Kashmiri Pandits, as well as his initiatives to bring peace and stability to Jammu and Kashmir, will always be remembered.” Dr. Singh’s government took significant steps to ease the return of Kashmiri Pandits, providing them with opportunities for resettlement and reintegration into the Valley. The creation of specific welfare programs and the push for security and infrastructure development were central to his efforts.

Abdullah also highlighted Dr. Singh’s larger legacy in Kashmir, pointing out that the former Prime Minister’s initiatives weren’t limited to the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits but extended to fostering economic development and addressing the aspirations of all communities in the region.

Dr. Singh’s approach to Jammu and Kashmir was rooted in a belief in peaceful coexistence and the importance of addressing the historical grievances of the people, something that continues to resonate with many in the region. His legacy, especially in terms of the rehabilitation process for Kashmiri Pandits, remains an integral part of the ongoing dialogue about the Valley’s future.(News Vibes of India)

Snowfall breaks prolonged dry spell in Kashmir, rekindles hope joy across the Valley

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 27(NVI): After an extended dry spell, Kashmir has been graced with its first significant snowfall of the season, covering areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, and other parts of South Kashmir in a pristine white blanket.

The snowfall has brought much-needed relief to farmers, rejuvenated the tourism industry, and uplifted the spirits of the local population.

In Gulmarg, Manzoor Ahmad, a sled operator, expressed his happiness. “It has been a tough few weeks with no tourists. This snowfall is like a blessing for us. I already have bookings for the sled rides, and I hope this continues throughout the season.”

In Pahalgam, a local farmer, Abdul Rashid, shared his relief. “The dry spell was worrying for all of us. This snowfall will recharge our water sources and ensure our crops thrive in the coming months. For us, this snow is life.”

Shabir Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Pulwama, added, “The snow always brings more tourists, and more tourists mean more business for us. We are now hopeful for a good winter season.”

In Anantnag, 65-year-old Nazir Ahmed spoke about the community’s connection to the snowfall. “Snowfall is not just weather for us; it’s part of our culture and livelihood. The valley looks alive again.”

In Shopian and Kulgam, locals were equally elated. In Shopian, a local youth named Bilal Ahmad said, “The snow is a blessing for us. It brings joy, and most importantly, it will help our farmers. We have been waiting for this for weeks.” In Kulgam, a farmer, Ghulam Hassan, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This snowfall is a relief. It helps our crops and is a sign of the season turning in our favor.”

Youngsters in Srinagar made the most of the day, enjoying snowball fights and creating snowmen. A college student, Iqra Jan, said, “This is the most beautiful part of living in Kashmir. The snow makes everything magical, and it’s a joy to step outside.”

Tourists visiting Kashmir are equally thrilled. At Sonmarg, a family from Punjab shared their excitement. “We came hoping to see snow, and Kashmir did not disappoint. It feels like a dream come true,” said Harpreet Kaur.

Meanwhile, the tourism sector is already seeing an uptick in activity. Bashir Ahmad, a hotel manager in Gulmarg, remarked, “Snowfall is the lifeline of winter tourism in Kashmir. The phones haven’t stopped ringing since morning with new bookings. This is the boost we needed after a dry spell.”

Authorities are actively working to ensure smooth connectivity. While the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway faced temporary closures due to snow accumulation, clearing operations are underway, and flight schedules are being monitored closely.

The Meteorological Department has predicted more snow in the coming days, sparking hope for a strong winter season. For the people of Kashmir, this snowfall has brought not just beauty but also optimism for better days ahead.(News Vibes of India)

Intense cold wave in Kashmir,Ladakh : Srinagar shivers at -7.3°C ,Zojila freezes at -24°C

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 27 (NVI): An unforgiving cold wave has gripped the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, plunging temperatures to bone-chilling lows and disrupting daily life.

The Zojila Pass recorded an extreme low of -24.0°C, emerging as the coldest location in Kashmir, while Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, shivered at -7.3°C, marking one of its coldest nights this season.

South Kashmir bore the brunt of the icy weather, with Pulwama and Shopian recording the lowest temperatures at -9.5°C, followed by Anantnag at -9.2°C and Khudwani at -8.4°C.

In Ladakh, the winter freeze deepened further, with Leh and Kargil recording temperatures of -12.2°C and -12.9°C, respectively. Drass, known for its harsh winters, recorded a biting -17.7°C, adding to the severity of the cold wave in the region.

The Jammu division, though relatively milder, also felt the chill. While Jammu city and Kathua remained at 8.0°C, Padder stood out with a harsh -8.8°C, one of the coldest spots in the division.

The freezing temperatures have led to frozen water pipes, icy roads, and disruptions to transportation. In Srinagar, residents are battling frozen taps and frost-covered roads, making mobility challenging. Authorities have urged people to take precautions as the cold wave is expected to persist in the coming days.

This severe drop in temperatures highlights the region’s vulnerability during the harsh winter months, with people relying on traditional methods to stay warm( News Vibes of India)

Pakistan confirms air strikes in Afghanistan, bilateral tensions escalate

The Pakistani delegation and Afghan Taliban team, including spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, meet in Doha (File Pic)

Islamabad, Dec 26 (NVI) Pakistan confirmed today that it carried out air strikes in Pakitika province of Afghanistan two nights back, an act which has angered the Taliban regime and heightened tensions between the two bordering nations.

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson said its cross-border military action was an intelligence-based operation aimed at neutralizing “threats to the security of Pakistan’s citizens.”

Pakistan has often said that its citizens are facing security threat from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an Islamist militant group. Islamabad says that TTP has bases in Afghanistan, a claim which has been repeatedly denied by both the Taliban regime and TTP.

The Taliban regime has strongly condemned the bombing, saying it targeted refugees from Waziristan and killed 46 innocent people and injured 6 others.

The victims included several children and women, the Taliban regime said and vowed retaliation.

“The Pakistani side should understand that such arbitrary measures are not a solution to any problem,” spokesperson of Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry Enayatullah Khowarazami posted on social media platform X.

“The Islamic Emirate (meaning Taliban) will not leave this cowardly act unanswered and considers the defense of its territory an inalienable right,” he added.

The Taliban regime also summoned the head of Pakistan’s Embassy here yesterday and lodged a strong protest with a warning.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) also condemned Pakistani military for the action and said it should be avenged. (NVI)

Ayan Sajad of Anantnag honored with Pradhan mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for Excellence in Art, Culture

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 26(NVI): Ayan Sajad, a young prodigy from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 for his outstanding contributions in the field of Art and Culture.

The award, one of the highest honors for children in India, recognizes extraordinary accomplishments in innovation, social service, scholastic achievements, sports, bravery, and art.

Ayan’s journey in art and culture has been nothing short of inspiring. He has already established himself as a beacon of creativity and dedication, captivating audiences with his exceptional talent. His work reflects not only his individual brilliance but also the vibrant cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. His commitment to his craft and ability to bring stories and traditions to life through art have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.

The award ceremony, held in New Delhi, was a proud moment for Ayan, his family, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. In the presence of distinguished dignitaries and fellow awardees, Ayan received the honor from the President of India, who praised the young achievers for their contributions to the nation’s progress.

Speaking to the media after receiving the award, Ayan expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the future. “This award is a dream come true for me. It motivates me to work harder to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir through my art. I dedicate this recognition to my parents, mentors, and all those who believed in me and encouraged me to follow my passion. I hope my journey inspires other young artists to pursue their dreams and never give up,” he said.

Ayan also emphasized the role of art in bridging cultural divides and fostering unity. “Art is a universal language that connects hearts and minds. Through my work, I want to showcase the beauty and diversity of Jammu and Kashmir to the world and remind everyone of the importance of preserving our cultural identity,” he added.

Ayan’s remarkable achievement has brought pride to his hometown of Anantnag and highlighted the immense potential of young talents from Jammu and Kashmir. His journey stands as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and passion, inspiring countless children across the region and the country (News Vibes of India)

Western Disturbance to bring snow, rain to J&K from Friday

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 26 (NVI): An active Western Disturbance is set to impact Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh from Friday afternoon to Saturday afternoon, with snowfall and rain expected.

The weather system is predicted to primarily affect the higher reaches of Jammu, while parts of Kashmir and Ladakh could also experience its effects.

The weather system will make its entry through the Jammu region, where higher-altitude areas of Kathua, Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar are likely to receive 1 to 4 inches of snowfall, with extreme elevations potentially seeing up to 10 inches. The plains of Jammu are expected to receive light to moderate rain showers, while Poonch and Rajouri are likely to see a comparatively milder impact.

In Kashmir, light snowfall is possible in parts of south Kashmir, particularly in Kulgam and Anantnag, with a 25–30% chance. Central Kashmir could also experience light rain or snowfall, though the chances are lower at 15%. Most areas of north Kashmir are expected to remain dry during this period.

The disturbance is also expected to affect parts of Ladakh, with light to moderate snowfall anticipated in Kargil and Leh districts.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif termed the system “moderate in intensity” with the main impact centered on the Jammu region. “There is an 85% chance of significant snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu, while south Kashmir has a 25–30% probability of snowfall, and central Kashmir might see light precipitation. Ladakh is likely to receive moderate snow showers in Kargil and Leh,” Arif explained.

Residents in affected areas are advised to stay cautious, especially in higher-altitude regions where travel disruptions are possible.(News Vibes of India)

Bone chilling cold grips Kashmir, Ladakh; Srinagar freezes at -7°C

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 26 (NVI): The cold wave tightened its grip across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh today with minimum temperatures plunging below freezing in most areas, disrupting daily life and intensifying the winter chill.

In the Kashmir Valley, Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling low of -7.0°C, one of the coldest nights of the season so far, matching Qazigund’s temperature. Pulwama, Anantnag, and Shopian were among the coldest areas, each dipping to -9.3°C, while Pahalgam registered -8.6°C and Bandipora hit -7.3°C. The tourist hotspots of Gulmarg and Sonamarg saw freezing lows of -6.0°C and -5.8°C, respectively. The harshest temperature in the region was at Zojila Pass, which recorded an extreme -25.0°C.

In the Jammu region, temperatures were comparatively milder but still dipped significantly in certain areas. Jammu city registered 6.6°C, while the tourist town of Katra remained warmer at 8.0°C. Sub-zero temperatures were recorded in Bhaderwah (-1.1°C) and Padder (-7.7°C), while Udhampur dropped to 1.5°C.

Meanwhile, Ladakh continued to reel under extreme cold. Kargil recorded the lowest temperature at -12.7°C, followed closely by Leh at -12.2°C.

The freezing conditions have disrupted water supply as pipelines froze, particularly in parts of Kashmir and Ladakh. Morning frost has made roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. The harsh cold has also forced people to rely on traditional heating methods as power supply remains erratic in some areas.

Tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam witnessed an influx of visitors eager to experience the snowfall, which has brought a boost to the local economy. However, the severe cold has added to the challenges faced by daily wage laborers and the homeless, who continue to bear the brunt of the harsh winter.

Authorities have urged residents to take precautions and ensure proper heating arrangements to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. With temperatures expected to remain low, locals and tourists alike are bracing for more challenging days ahead.(News Vibes of India)

Balochistan: BLA claims responsibility for 9 attacks; killing 6 soldiers

Balochistan: BLA launches maritime unit, kills 3 Pakistani Navy men in first attack
Representative image of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Dec 24 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight said it carried out 9 separate attacks on the occupying Pakistan Army and its assets over the last 3 days in Balochistan, killing 6 soldiers and 2 informers and injuring 5.

Baloch Liberation Army fighters targeted the Pakistani army, gas pipeline, railway tracks, agents, and mineral-transporting vehicles during nine separate attacks in Dasht, Zamuran, Quetta, Mashkay, Panjgur, Kalat and Tump, causing severe damage to the enemy, its spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement to NVI.

Today, Baloch Liberation Army fighters targeted a Pakistani army convoy, using a remote-controlled IED in the Dasht, Zaren bug area of ​​Kech, he said.

As a result, 4 enemy army personnel were eliminated and 4 critically injured, while a vehicle was destroyed, he said.

The spok spokesman said the army convoy was providing security to foreign tourists who came to Balochistan for hunting rare wildlife.

The Baloch Liberation Army warns foreign tourists that Balochistan is in a state of war, he said.

“In areas where the Pakistani army brings tourists for money to hunt, hunting for the protection of rare wildlife has been banned,” Baloch said.

“Anyone who violates this will be forcibly stopped by Baloch fighters and expelled from these war areas,” the spokesman warned.

He said the BLA fighters deliberately did not target foreign tourist vehicles in the said convoy but attacked the enemy army vehicle to serve “as a warning to these tourists”.

Yesterday, BLA fighters targeted foot patrol of Pakistani army with a remote-controlled IED in the Pugumzan area of ​​Zamuran, he said.

Two enemy army personnel were eliminated on the spot and one was injured, the spokesman added.

Yesterday, in another attack, a police vehicle was targeted in a bomb attack on Quetta’s Qambrani Road, he said, adding police personnel suffered casualties and property losses.

In Quetta, the railway track was destroyed by installing explosives near Saryab Road last night.

In another operation this evening, fighters destroyed the gas pipeline on the western bypass.

Baloch Liberation Army fighters targeted an exploitative construction company’s vehicle in an IED attack in the middle of Kapoor and Lakhi in Mashkay on Monday, resulting in severe damage to the fighter, he said.

Meanwhile, on Monday, BLA fighters neutralized Shaman Ali, an active agent of the Pakistani Army, near Qalam Chowk in Panjgur, the spokesman said.

The said agent was disguised and was informing for the enemy army in various places in Panjgur city, he said.

In another operation on Monday night, the Baloch Liberation Army fighters neutralized an agent of the enemy army disguised as a madman in Kalat city.

The agent was associated with the military intelligence (MI) of the occupying army and was seen moving with the army.

In another operation on Monday, BLA fighters targeted three mineral-carrying vehicles in Sirinakan Tagranabad in the Tump area of ​​Kech. The fighters released the drivers of the vehicles as a warning, he said.

“The Baloch Liberation Army accepts responsibility for all the attacks,” he said.

CM Conducts surprise inspections of premier medical institutions in Srinagar

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 25 (NVI): In a bid to improve healthcare facilities in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah conducted surprise inspections of Srinagar’s top medical institutions today.

The visit aimed to assess patient care and infrastructure challenges firsthand, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing public health needs.

The Chief Minister visited the Bone & Joint Hospital, Barzulla, a leading orthopedic facility, where he toured various wards, interacted with patients, and held discussions with hospital staff. Accompanied by Minister of Health Sakeena Itoo and senior medical officials, he reviewed winter arrangements, treatment facilities, and staffing levels.

During the visit, Omar Abdullah inspected the state-of-the-art additional block, constructed under the Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project with World Bank funding. The new block, equipped with earthquake-resilient technology, will add 160 beds to the hospital, increasing its capacity from 150 to 310 beds. He directed officials to ensure the block is operational by January 2025 to address the space crunch caused by a 2022 fire incident.

At the 500-bedded Children’s Hospital in Bemina, the Chief Minister interacted with patients and attendants, many of whom highlighted the need for a Sarai (inn) for visitors from remote areas. He immediately directed authorities to construct a Sarai to ease their difficulties.

Hospital staff raised concerns about space constraints for expanding super-specialty services and the shortage of medical personnel. The Chief Minister assured them of priority action to resolve these issues, not just at this facility but across healthcare institutions in the region.

Omar Abdullah said the timely availability of medicines and essential facilities for patients and reiterated his government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

“The government is fully dedicated to addressing manpower shortages and providing better healthcare facilities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said during the inspections (News Vibes of India)

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