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One Terrorist Killed in Ongoing Ganderbal Operation: Army

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One Terrorist Killed in Ongoing Ganderbal Operation: Army

Srinagar, Apr 1 (NVI): One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing anti-terror operation in Arahama area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, the Army said on Wednesday.

The Army’s Chinar Corps said that the cordon laid during the operation on the night of March 31 was tactically reorganised amid intermittent exchange of fire.

The troops responded effectively with a calibrated approach, leading to the killing of one terrorist, it said.

The operation is still in progress, the Army added.(NVI)

Security of Legislators Must Not Be Taken Lightly: Speaker Rather

Jammu, Mar 31 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Tuesday expressed concern over the withdrawal of security cover to MLAs and party offices, asserting that such matters must not be taken lightly.

He termed as “very unfortunate” the withdrawal of security in the backdrop of an assassination attempt on former chief minister Farooq Abdullah.

Rather said the issue has been under discussion for the past few days and called for it to be treated with utmost seriousness by the concerned authorities. He stressed that security arrangements should be made strictly in accordance with established norms and regulations, noting that there is a national-level categorisation system governing such provisions.

“The message of this House is loud and clear. The concerned authorities should review such decisions and assess cases where there is genuine apprehension and need for security,” he said.

Emphasising vigilance in the current circumstances, the Speaker said past incidents must guide present decisions. “We cannot take such matters casually. We have to keep in mind what we have suffered in the past,” he added.

Rather also observed that arbitrary decisions regarding the provision or withdrawal of security do not hold merit, asserting that concerns raised in the Assembly must be taken seriously.

Earlier, several legislators raised the issue in the House and sought immediate intervention by the authorities. Those who spoke included Hasnain Masoodi, Nazir Khan Gurezi, Nizamuddin Bhat, Surjit Singh Slathia, Salman Sagar, Sajad Gani Lone, Javed Hassan Beg and Rafiq Naik.(NVI)

Encounter between security forces and terrorists in Ganderbal in Kashmir
Hiding terrorists opened fire at security forces during a search operation

A security man taking cover during an encounter in Kashmir (File pic)

Srinagar, Mar 31 (NVI): An exchange of fire took place between security forces and a group of terrorists in a village in Ganderbal district of Kashmir tonight.

The encounter took place in Arahama in Ganderbal during a search operation launched by the security forces on the basis of information about presence of terrorists in the area, officials told NVI.

During the search operation, when the security cordon narrowed down on a particular place, the hiding terrorists opened fire, which was responded to immediately.

Gunshots heard during search operation in Ganderbal in Kashmir

“Based on specific intelligence input, joint search operation was launched by IndianArmy and JmuKmrPolice in Gen(eral) area Arahama of Ganderbal. During the search, vigilant troops observed suspicious activity. On being challenged, terrorists opened fire and own troops retaliated. Operation is in progress,” said a post on X by Srinagar-based Chinar Corps of the Indian Army.  (NVI)

LG Manoj Sinha Promotes Five Inspectors as Deputy SPs in J&K

Srinagar, Mar 31 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ordered the promotion of five Inspectors (Ministerial) to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (Ministerial) with immediate effect, officials said on Tuesday.

According to a government order, sanction has been accorded for the promotion of Fida Hussain Sheikh, Farooq Ahmad Naikoo, Mohd Farooq Mir, Manzoor Hussain and Abdul Rashid Mir to the post of Deputy SP (Ministerial) in Pay Level-8 of the pay matrix.

The order further stated that the promotions will be subject to the outcome of any writ petitions, if pending before any competent court of law, officials added.

₹3,340 Cr to Boost Disaster Preparedness Across J&K: CS

Jammu, Mar 31 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir administration is utilising ₹3,340 crore to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience across the Union Territory, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said on Tuesday while chairing a high-level review meeting.

The meeting assessed the roadmap and ongoing initiatives aimed at improving disaster management systems, with emphasis on proactive planning, mitigation and risk reduction across all districts.

Dulloo directed departments to ensure effective utilisation of funds earmarked under various components of disaster management and stressed a structured approach across key areas, including early warning systems, risk reduction, relief and response, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and capacity building.

He called for expert-driven policy formulation and asked officials to undertake detailed analysis through a designated committee to develop actionable recommendations tailored to departmental needs.

Highlighting the approaching monsoon season, the Chief Secretary instructed deputy commissioners to identify vulnerable areas and implement preventive measures based on past experiences. He also emphasised strict enforcement of disaster management laws and formulation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) at the district level.

Senior officials underlined the need to protect critical infrastructure, adopt technology-driven early warning systems, and carry out detailed vulnerability studies, particularly in disaster-prone regions such as the Chenab basin.

Officials informed the meeting that a multi-hazard vulnerability and risk assessment is underway, with pilot districts including Ramban, Kishtwar and Srinagar, and a risk atlas is being developed to identify hazard hotspots.

The administration has secured significant financial assistance, including over ₹330 crore based on an IMCT report and ₹1,579 crore approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs for infrastructure recovery and reconstruction. Projects worth ₹1,431 crore have also been allocated under SASCI for restoration works.

To strengthen institutional capacity, the UT has established a Directorate of Disaster Management and is working towards setting up an Urban Disaster Management Authority. A mitigation fund has also been operationalised.

The government has partnered with UNDP for technical support and is coordinating with the National Disaster Management Authority to develop hyper-local early warning systems. The Incident Response System has been notified up to the tehsil level, supported by regular mock drills and training programmes.

Officials said line departments are incorporating disaster-resilient features in infrastructure planning, including earthquake-resistant construction, floodplain mapping and slope stabilisation, alongside policy measures such as stricter building regulations and land-use norms.

The Chief Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to building a disaster-resilient Jammu and Kashmir through sustained and evidence-based planning.(NVI)

Gunshots heard during search operation in Ganderbal in Kashmir
A group of terrorists spotted

Representational Image

Srinagar, Mar 31 (NVI): Gunshots were heard tonight in a village of Ganderbal district of Kashmir during a search operation launched by security forces following information about presence of terrorists there.

The incident took place in Arhama in Ganderbal district.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team of police and the Army launched a search operation in the area, officials said.

During the operation, some gunshots were heard, prompting security forces to further tighten the cordon, officials added.

The search operation was ongoing in the area at the time of filing this report.(NVI)

Niyo Forex opens branch in Chennai to target outbound travel and remittance demand
The Fintech company accelerates its strategy to have 50 branches nationwide

Chennai, Mar 31: Aiming to tap the rising outbound travel and remittance demand in Tamil Nadu, Travel fintech company Niyo has launched its Niyo Forex branch in its capital Chennai.

The move marks a key milestone in its strategy to expand across high-growth cross-border corridors in India.

The company is targeting a 10-15% share of India’s outbound forex market and has launched its outlet in Chennai as part of its plans to build a 50-branch nationwide “phygital” network, combining its digital-first platform with an expanding on-ground presence to better serve customers across key travel and remittance markets.

Tamil Nadu is among India’s leading contributors to outbound travel and remittances, driven by a large base of students, IT professionals and global travellers.

India’s outward remittances under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) stood at USD 31.73 billion in FY2023–24, with travel and education among the fastest-growing segments.

The state accounts for nearly 7% of India’s outbound student mobility, with close to 93,000 students travelling overseas annually.

Operated under Kanji Forex Pvt. Ltd., an RBI-licensed Authorised Dealer Category II entity, the Chennai branch strengthens Niyo Forex’s footprint in one of India’s most active markets for outbound travel, student mobility and remittances, the company said in a statement today.

On this occasion, Niyo Forex CEO Amit Talwar said, “Chennai is a strategically important market for us, given its strong remittance base, growing outbound travel and student mobility. Our expansion strengthens our presence in Tamil Nadu, enabling faster, more transparent cross-border transactions.”

He added that by combining a robust digital platform with an expanding physical network, Niyo  is building a scalable model to serve customers across key travel and remittance corridors.

Chennai, with strong diaspora linkages across the GCC and Southeast Asia, along with robust international connectivity, continues to drive sustained demand for forex and cross-border financial services.

Chennai International Airport is the fourth largest departure port connecting to 69 destinations across 20 countries, reinforcing its importance in driving forex demand.

Sai Sankar, Chief Business Officer of Niyo Forex, added, “Despite growing global connectivity, access to transparent and affordable forex services remains a challenge for many Indians. Chennai, which accounts for nearly 10% of outbound travel, is a critical market for us. Our phygital approach is designed to simplify cross-border transactions while expanding access across both metro and emerging markets.”

Niyo has served over one million outbound Indian travellers and has a strong presence across metros such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi and Hyderabad. The Chennai launch marks a strategic step in strengthening its southern footprint and expanding into high-potential regional markets.

The Chennai branch will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including forex cards, forex cash and outward remittances, along with value-added travel services such as flight and hotel bookings, visa assistance, eSIMs and travel insurance. These offerings are supported by Niyo’s transparent pricing and digital-first experience.

About Niyo:

Niyo (Finnew Solutions Pvt. Ltd.) is India’s travel fintech platform focused on cross-border payments and travel banking. Founded in 2015, the company pioneered zero-forex-markup cards in India and offers a full suite of travel banking services, including forex cards, forex cash and remittances (via Niyo Forex), along with value-added travel services such as flights, hotels, visas, eSIMs and travel insurance. (NVI)

Govt Assures Improved Drinking Water Infrastructure Across Rural J&K

Jammu, Mar 31 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday said that the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is expected to significantly reduce dependence on tanker-based water supply in rural areas.

Replying to a Calling Attention Motion in the Legislative Assembly, Minister for Agriculture Javid Ahmad Dar said that the completion and commissioning of various schemes under JJM will ensure improved and sustainable drinking water access across rural regions.

The motion was raised by MLA Baldev Raj Sharma, who highlighted water shortages in the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi constituency. Dar was responding on behalf of Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana.

The minister said the government is adhering to established norms to ensure regular water supply in the constituency and other areas. He added that private tankers are being deployed as a temporary measure during emergencies, peak summer demand, or high pilgrimage periods.

Dar emphasized that the ongoing expansion of water supply infrastructure under JJM aims to provide reliable services and reduce reliance on tanker-based arrangements across Jammu and Kashmir.(NVI)

Govt pushing WSS SK Bala completion to ensure water supply in Sonawari

Representational Image

Jammu, Mar 31 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday said it is taking steps to ensure a reliable drinking water supply in Sonawari constituency, with work underway on a key scheme under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Replying to a Calling Attention Motion in the Legislative Assembly, Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said the Retrofitting of Water Supply Scheme (WSS) at Saderkote Bala in the Dudwan area is being expedited to provide piped water to residents.

The motion was moved by MLA Hilal Akbar Lone, seeking details on the water supply situation in Dudwan Saderkote Bala. Dar responded on behalf of Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana.

He informed the House that the scheme, which is based on a borewell source, is currently under execution. Electro-mechanical works and the laying and fitting of rising mains to the service reservoir at Dudwan are in progress, he said.

The minister added that as an interim arrangement, water is being supplied through tanker services on a scheduled roster to meet local demand.

He also informed the Assembly about an incident on March 26 in which a minor girl lost her life during routine operations. An FIR has been registered and an investigation is underway, he said.(NVI)

J&K MLAs Raise Key Public Issues During Zero Hour in Assembly

Jammu, Mar 31 (NVI): Legislators in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Tuesday raised a range of public issues during Zero Hour, highlighting gaps in healthcare, education, infrastructure and administrative functioning across their constituencies.

MLA Shagun Parihar flagged vacancies at District Hospital Kishtwar, seeking immediate appointment of specialists, including an anaesthetist and a radiologist. Irfan Hafiz Lone urged extension of the Power Amnesty Scheme by a year to provide relief to consumers.

Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani pointed to acute staff shortages in Budgam’s education sector, while Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Mir called for resumption of stalled construction work on Government Degree College Rajpora.

Javaid Riyaz Bedar demanded appointment of an Executive Officer for Municipal Committee Pattan and filling of key vacancies, including ZEOs and BDOs. Tariq Hamid Karra raised concerns over inflated electricity bills, alleging unauthorized load enhancements.

Devinder Kumar Manyal stressed timely admissions for NEET-PG candidates, and Gharu Ram Bhagat sought early repayment of dues to depositors of the J&K SCARD Bank.

Waheed ur Rehman Para and Javaid Ahmad Mirchal highlighted vacancies in the health sector, calling for urgent filling of posts. Choudhary Mohammed Akram raised issues related to the Agriculture Production Department and sought streamlining of the National Pension System.

Muzaffer Iqbal Khan demanded rehabilitation of families affected by road slippages and extension of hostel facilities to postgraduate students. Surinder Kumar flagged disparities in LPG access between rural and urban areas.

Zaffar Ali Khatana sought filling of key administrative posts in Kokernag and backed extension of the Power Amnesty Scheme. Arjun Singh Raju called for improvement in road infrastructure to facilitate SRTC operations.

Javaid Iqbal demanded a probe into mysterious deaths in Budhal, Rajouri, and better public transport facilities. Sheikh Ahsan Ahmad Pardesi urged optimal use of the vacant GB Pant Hospital premises.

Satish Sharma called for a probe into damage to sports infrastructure due to rains and demanded deployment of a fire tender in his constituency.

The members urged the government to take timely action to address these issues and improve public service delivery across the Union Territory.(NVI)

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