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Kashmir shivers, Minimum temperatures dip across J&K, Ladakh

File Photo

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 21 (NVI): Temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, have dropped significantly, with many regions recording sub-zero levels, signaling the onset of a harsh winter.

According to the details obtained by NVI, in the Kashmir Valley, the coldest temperatures were observed in Shopian at -3.9°C, followed closely by Anantnag at -3.5°C and Pulwama at -3.4°C.

The popular tourist destinations of Pahalgam and Sonamarg recorded -3.2°C and -1.6°C, respectively. Similarly, Srinagar, the summer capital, noted a low of -0.4°C, while Gulmarg remained at 0.0°C.

Moreover, in the Jammu region, temperatures were relatively mild, with Jammu city recording 10.6°C. However, colder areas such as Banihal (2.3°C) and Bhaderwah (2.5°C) indicated a notable dip. Padder recorded the coldest in this region at -5.4°C.

The chill was most severe in Ladakh, with Drass—known as one of the coldest inhabited places in the world—registering a frigid -8.9°, followed by Leh at -6.6°C and Kargil at -5.9°C.

Notably, as temperatures continue to decline, residents have begun preparations for the harsh winter ahead. Officials have advised precautions, especially during early mornings and late evenings, to prevent cold-related health issues.—(NVI)

NIA Launches Major Operation in Jammu Division : Multiple Raids underway to Uncover Terrorist Links

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Nov 21(NVI): As a major crackdown on terrorist activities, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated raids at eight separate locations across Jammu in connection with a case involving suspected Pakistani infiltrators.

According to sources familiar with the operation, the NIA, in collaboration with local police forces and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), is focusing its efforts on areas within the Reasi, Doda, Udhampur, Ramban, and Kishtwar districts.

The purpose of the raids is to dismantle networks aiding infiltration attempts and gather critical intelligence on individuals linked to terrorist operations in the region. The search is primarily targeting individuals connected to known Over Ground Workers (OGWs), who are believed to play a key role in supporting terrorist activities.      (News Vibes of India)

Doda accident : One dead, Eight injured

Sayed Zahid

Doda, Nov 20 (NVI): A fatal road accident in the Assar Baboo area of Doda district on Wednesday late evening left one person dead and eight others injured, officials said.

Officials told NVI, the mishap involved an Eeco car, registered under JK06A-9929, which lost control and met with an accident near the Assar Baboo stretch.

They said, the deceased has been identified as Davinder Kumar, son of Diwan Chand, a resident of Jatter. He succumbed to injuries on the spot.

Meanwhile, the injured victims include Suresh Kumar, son of Pyar Singh, from Firmi; Shano Devi, wife of Rakesh Rai; Behari Lal, son of Hari Chand, from Pattar; Rohit Kumar, son of Om Prakash, from Tattar; Omar Prakesh, son of Baldev Rah, from Jatlas; Kamajeet, son of Pyar Singh; Sanjeev Kumar; and Ravinder Kumar.

All injured individuals were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment, while police have registered a case to investigate the cause of the accident. Further details are awaited.—(NVI)

IGP Kashmir V.K.Birdi Visits Shopian, Reviews Crime and Security Measures

IGP V.K. Birdi with DIG South Kashmir Range, Javid Iqbal, SSP Shopian Anayat Ali Chowdhary, and other senior officers at Shopian.

NVI Correspondent

Shopian, Nov 20(NVI): Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, visited Shopian district today to review its law enforcement operations and security preparedness.

“During the visit, IGP Birdi chaired a crime review meeting attended by DIG South Kashmir Range, Javid Iqbal, SSP Shopian Anayat Ali Chowdhary, and other senior officers. SSP Shopian provided a detailed briefing on the district’s policing operations, highlighting efforts to address crime and maintain law and order,” reads a statement issued by police, a copy of which lies with NVI.

It reads, the IGP stressed the importance of robust intelligence gathering and swift operational responses to ensure peace in the region. He reviewed the district’s crime trends and urged officers to intensify surveillance, particularly to counter anti-national activities and the misuse of social media platforms to incite unrest.

“As part of his visit, IGP Birdi inspected SOG camps, emphasizing regular training and advanced programs to strengthen operational capabilities. He also visited various police stations, including Police Station Shopian, to assess records and overall functioning. The visit reaffirmed the department’s commitment to maintaining security and order in the district,” it reads further.  (News Vibes of India)

MeT predicts dry weather till Nov 30, Harsh winter ahead in Kashmir

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 20(NVI): The Meteorological department Kashmir today said that weather will stay dry till November 30 and the night temperatures will further fall in Srinagar and go up to minus 1.5. It said in the hilly areas there was a possibility that the night temperature may plummet up to minus 5 degrees Celsius.

Hinting at the harsh winter ahead in Kashmir, the Deputy Director Meteorological department Kashmir Dr Mukhtar Ahmed said that the minus 0.7 degrees Celsius temperatures in Srinagar on the night of November 19-20 has already allowed the winter to set in. “The arrival of winter is very harsh in Kashmir. As far as the weather patterns there is a feeble western disturbance predicted for November 23-24 that may slightly improve the weather system for a while. But overall prediction is for very harsh winter conditions,” he said.

Dr Mukhtar said that till November 30, there is a prediction for further fall in the night temperatures and the night temperature may dip to 1 or 1.5 degrees Celsius in plain areas while as in the hilly areas, it is set fall up to minus 4 and minus 5 degrees Celsius.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif said that the weather forecast for till November 30 is for dry weather and there is very weak western disturbance on cards for November 23-24. “After that, temperatures are set to fall and touch minus 1 degrees Celsius in Srinagar and minus 4 degrees Celsius in other districts of Kashmir especially hilly areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg etc.

Asked whether Kashmir was witnessing unusual weather in November month, Arif said there was nothing abnormal about minus temperatures in November. “Last year, November 20 recorded minus 1.8 degrees Celsius night temperatures. So thing abnormal,” he said, adding that “Kashmir being the part of global community is also witnessing global warming and can’t escape this reality.” (NVI)

NIA Nabs Key Player in 2020 Kashmir Narco-Terror Case, Unravels Links with Banned Terror Groups

NVI Correspondent

New Delhi/Srinagar November 20 (NVI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Muneer Ahmad Banday, a wanted accused in the 2020 Kashmir narco-terror case, which is linked to a conspiracy involving banned Pakistan-based terrorist organizations. These groups were allegedly procuring and selling narcotic drugs to raise funds to further their terrorist activities.

Banday, who had been evading arrest for four years, was a central figure in the plot to fund terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir and other regions of India. These illicit funds were intended to fuel terrorist activities in the region, facilitated through a network of over-ground workers (OGWs).

The case came to light in June 2020, when Handwara (Kupwara) police seized 2 kgs of heroin and Rs. 20 lakhs in cash during a routine vehicle check at Kairo Bridge. The vehicle, driven by accused Abdul Momin Peer, was intercepted while traveling from Baramulla to Handwara. Further investigation led to the discovery of 15 kgs of heroin and Rs. 1.15 crores in cash.

The NIA took over the case and re-registered it on 23rd June 2020 under various sections of the IPC, NDPS Act, and UAPA. To date, the agency has filed charges against 15 individuals in connection with this case and continues its efforts to dismantle the narco-terror network. The NIA is committed to eradicating the funding sources that sustain terrorism, especially in Kashmir. (News Vibes of India)

ACB Books Former DUC Bank Manager in Misappropriation Case

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Nov 20(NVI): The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Jammu and Kashmir has registered a case against Amit Gupta, a former Branch Manager of Devika Urban Cooperative Bank Ltd., Chenani, for allegedly misappropriating funds.

According to the ACB, Gupta, during his tenure from 2014, engaged in various fraudulent activities, including opening fictitious accounts, unauthorized withdrawals and transfers, disbursing loans without approval, and diverting funds. The investigation revealed that a total of Rs 1,76,56,363 was misappropriated, of which Rs 1,52,87,907 has been recovered or adjusted.

The ACB is probing the involvement of other bank officials who might have been complicit in the fraudulent activities. Gupta’s services were terminated by the bank following an internal inquiry.

A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Jammu and Kashmir Prevention of Corruption Act, and further investigations are underway.  (News Vibes of India)

Crackdown on Narcotics : J&K Police attaches properties under NDPS Act in Anantnag

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 20(NVI): In a significant step towards combating drug abuse, Police in Anantnag have attached properties worth Rs 1.5 crore under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as part of ongoing campaign against drug peddlers.

In a major action, Police Station Mattan attached a single-storied residential house valued at Rs 80 lakh, belonging to Afroz Ahmad Bhat, son of Gh Hassan, resident of Azam Khan Mohalla, Khreibal. Bhat, a habitual offender involved in multiple NDPS cases for his role in the illegal narcotics trade.

Similarly, Police Station Srigufwara attached three commercial shops valued at Rs 70 lakh, owned by Peer Asif Ahmad Shah and Peer Towseef Ahmad Shah, sons of Abdul Rashid Shah, residents of K Kalan, Srigufwara. Both the accused persons are under investigation for their involvement in several NDPS cases.

These actions highlight Police’s unwavering commitment in eradicating the drug menace and dismantling the networks that perpetuate addiction. The use of provisions under the NDPS Act to seize properties linked to criminal activities serves as a strong deterrent to those engaged in the illegal drug trade. Police remain steadfast in their mission to create a drug-free society and will continue to take strict measures against individuals and groups involved in narcotics trafficking.(News Vibes of India)

Govt determined to establish world class healthcare infrastructure in J&K : Sakina Itoo

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 20(NVI): Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakina Itoo, today chaired a meeting to review progress on ongoing works on prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Awantipora.

The Minister had a comprehensive assessment of all the ongoing works of the project. She deliberated on several aspects of this prestigious project with concerned officers and agencies. She also took a detailed review of both physical and financial progress, water supply to AIIMS, construction of approach road and other allied facilities.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Health and Medical Education, Executive Director AIIMS, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Engineer in Chief R&B, Director Finance H&ME, Chief Engineer, CPWD, Chief Engineers of PDD, JSD, PWD and other concerned officials.

Addressing the officers, the Minister outlined that the present government is devoted to provide top notch medical care facilities to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Health sector is top priority for our government and we are determined to establish world class healthcare infrastructure in J&K”, Sakina said.

She underlined that AIIMS Awantipora will play vital role in ensuring best healthcare services to the Kashmir valley and surrounding areas, once operational. She added that AIIMS Awantipora will become a beacon of hope for people here, especially those in remote areas who have long faced challenges in accessing quality healthcare.

In order to ensure timely completion of the main hospital building and allied structures, the Minister instructed the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama to take monthly review meetings and submit regular progress reports.

The Minister directed the officers of project executing agency to mobilize men and machinery for timely completion of the project. She asked them to increase workforce so that the work is expedited on the project. She advised them to continue interior works of different blocks of the project during winter months also.

While reviewing other aspects of the project, the Minister asserted on completion of works on tube wells/bore wells and their smooth functioning by March 2025 to ensure seamless water supply to the hospital building and other blocks.

The Minister stressed on maintaining high standards in work quality and execution, ensuring adherence to deadlines. She urged all stakeholders to prioritize speedy construction of the main building. She asserted that no delays in work execution shall be entertained and instructed all concerned agencies to work in tandem for timely completion of the project.

The Minister highlighted that establishment of AIIMS Awantipora is a milestone in the region’s healthcare development as it will improve access to world-class medical care here. She added that it will also create job opportunities, enhance research and elevate J&K’s healthcare ecosystem.

Earlier, the Chief Engineer CPWD briefed the Minister on current status of the project and issues pertaining to the project through a PowerPoint presentation.(News Vibes of India)

Kashmir Situation Under Control: CRPF’s Synergy on Display as 2nd Edition CRPF Cup Kicks Off

Inspector General of CRPF Srinagar Sector, Pawan Kumar Sharma

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 20 (NVI) : The much-anticipated 2nd Edition of the CRPF Cup 2024 T20 Challenge commenced with grandeur at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, underscoring not only the vibrancy of Kashmir’s youth but also the prevailing sense of normalcy in the region.

The event is part of a larger initiative by the CRPF to connect with the local populace through sports and inspire emerging talent.

Inspector General of CRPF Srinagar Sector, Pawan Kumar Sharma, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Speaking at the opening ceremony, IG Sharma lauded the efforts of the 16 participating teams and emphasized the tournament’s role in fostering youth engagement. “This platform not only promotes cricket but also strengthens the bond with the youth of Kashmir,” he said. He also announced the upcoming 2nd Edition CRPF Football Cup 2024 to be held next month.

The event, attended by senior CRPF officers including DIG Srinagar South Shri PK Singh, DIG Srinagar North Shri Sudhir Khmar, and other dignitaries, reflects the effective synergy between security agencies in maintaining peace and order across the Valley. Highlighting this, IG Sharma noted, “The situation in Kashmir is firmly under control, with all security agencies working together to ensure stability and progress.”

The inaugural cricket match set the tone for the tournament, as Kashmir Tigers Sonwar delivered a commanding performance against Kashmir Strikers Sozeith. Opting to bowl first, the Tigers dismissed their opponents for a meager 68 runs in 12.5 overs. Star player Abid Nabi led the charge, claiming three wickets and contributing 18 runs with the bat, earning him the Player of the Match award.

The tournament, featuring 16 teams from Srinagar, Budgam, and Ganderbal, is set to unfold over nine days, with 31 matches played in a league-cum-knockout format across four venues. The winners will receive a cash prize of Rs: 1.5 lakh, while the runners-up will take home Rs: 1.25 lakh. Matches are being live-streamed on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, with updates available on CricHeroes and 93.5 Red FM.

In the second match at Ground B, Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar Sultans Nishat triumphed over Elegant Strikers after electing to bat first.

The tournament not only exemplifies the passion for cricket in Kashmir but also serves as a testament to the seamless coordination of security forces in fostering peace and promoting community engagement in the Valley.(NVI)

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