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LG Manoj Sinha appoints SHOs, SDPOs as Special Police Officers to strengthen fight against Human Trafficking in J&K

File Photo : LG Manoj Sinha

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Feb 5(NVI): In a significant move to intensify the crackdown on human trafficking, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has appointed all Station House Officers (SHOs), Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs), and Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs) (Headquarters) as Special Police Officers (SPOs) under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 across Jammu and Kashmir.

The notification, issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, empowers these officers to take swift and decisive action against human trafficking and related crimes within their respective jurisdictions. This move supersedes all previous notifications on the matter, marking a major shift in the region’s approach to combating immoral trafficking.

Announcing the decision, LG Manoj Sinha emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable sections of society.

“The safety and dignity of every citizen, especially the most vulnerable, are paramount. By empowering police officers with direct authority under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, we are ensuring that justice is swift, effective, and uncompromised,” Sinha said.

The appointment is made under Section 13(1) of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, which allows for the designation of special officers to enforce the Act’s provisions. This decision is part of the broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement’s capacity to combat human trafficking, particularly in regions where such crimes often go unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of timely intervention.

With this notification, SHOs, SDPOs, and DySPs now have:

Enhanced authority to conduct raids on suspected trafficking hubs without procedural delays.

Legal power to rescue victims and ensure their immediate safety.

Autonomy to investigate and prosecute trafficking cases swiftly.

Greater coordination with specialized anti-trafficking units for dismantling organized networks.

A senior police official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, remarked, “This move eliminates bureaucratic hurdles. Officers on the ground can now act decisively without waiting for additional approvals, which is crucial when dealing with crimes like human trafficking.”

Human trafficking remains a hidden crime in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir, often targeting women, children, and economically vulnerable individuals. By decentralizing power, the government aims to ensure that law enforcement can respond rapidly to reports, conduct undercover operations, and rescue victims before they suffer irreparable harm.

Razia, a 17-year-old girl from South Kashmir, was recently rescued in an operation led by a local SHO following this directive. Her family, overwhelmed with emotion, credited the swift action for her safe return.

“Without the SHO’s immediate intervention, we might never have seen our daughter again. This change saved her life,” her mother said tearfully.

Legal experts and activists have welcomed the move. Advocate Shabnam Qureshi, a human rights lawyer based in Srinagar, said, “This is a landmark decision. It shows that the administration is serious about tackling trafficking not just as a crime, but as a human rights violation. Giving local officers direct power to act can be a game-changer.”

The J&K Police are also expected to undergo specialized training sessions to handle trafficking cases sensitively, focusing on victim rehabilitation, legal procedures, and coordination with NGOs and social welfare departments.

The appointment of SHOs and SDPOs as Special Police Officers is more than an administrative change—it is a clear message from the J&K government that crimes against humanity will not be tolerated.

As the Union Territory moves forward under LG Manoj Sinha’s leadership, this initiative reflects a governance model rooted in decisive action, accountability, and a commitment to safeguarding human dignity.(News Vibes of India)

Cancer cases rising in India but treatment available: Doctors

Cancer-ribbon

Bengaluru, Feb 4 (NVI) The incidence of cancer has been steadily increasing in India over the last few decades and the number of such patients is projected to rise to 1.57 million in 2025, double of what it was in 1990, according to the opinion of some senior oncologists.

India has now emerged as the “cancer capital” of the world, felt the oncologists from Bengaluru-based Sammprada Multi-speciality Hospital on the World Cancer Day.

“Over the years, cancer incidence has been steadily increasing because of factors like population growth, increasing number of aging people, improved diagnostic facilities, and lifestyle changes involving smoking, alcohol, bad diet, obesity, and lack of exercise,” said Dr. Radheshyam Naik, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Hematologist and Bone Marrow Transplant Physician at Sammprada Hospital.

He said cancers associated with tobacco use, including lung, oral, and throat cancers, account for nearly 40% of all cancer cases in India.

The incidence of cancer is higher in females (105 per 100,000 population) in India, compared to males (95 per 100,000 population), Dr Naik said.

Dr. Vinod, Preventive Oncologist at the same hospital, said, “Cancer treatment in India poses several challenges. This includes late presentation of patients, inadequate medical facilities in rural areas, lack of awareness about cancer screening, difficulty in accessing cancer care, high cost of treatment, inadequate insurance coverage, and inconsistent treatment protocols.”

Underlining that “several things can be done to reduce incidence of cancer”, he said, “Most of these relate to lifestyle changes.”

Reducing consumption of tobacco and alcohol and controlling obesity can lead to drastic fall in cancer cases, the doctor said.

Vaccination against HPV and Hepatitis B can also play a huge role, he said.

“People need to increase physical activity and improve their nutrition through consumption of more fruits, vegetables and fibre and reduced intake of processed food, meat, and sugary beverages,” the Oncologist said.

According to Dr Radheysham Naik, many cancer patients have reported significant improvements in terms of survival rate in India such as breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, cancer of cervix, lymphomas, and leukemia’s.

While breast cancers and lung cancers remain prevalent, other cancers like lymphoma, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancers are seeing a rise in the last few years, he said.

Talking about the most significant advances in cancer treatment, Dr Naik said: “In surgical field, there are advances like robotic surgery, organ conservation surgeries, pre-op chemo radio therapy enabling minimal surgery, and better prosthesis for breast and limbs.

“In medical oncology, we have more targeted chemotherapy, immunotherapy, biological therapy, and anti-angiogenic treatment, as well as better hormone therapies, bone-protecting drugs, bone marrow growth factors and anti-microbials.

“Radiation oncology too has seen advances like more targeted radiotherapies with machines like cyber knife and better techniques of brachy therapy and use of combination chemo-radio therapies.” (NVI)

Alkem launches Kojiglo serum in India for facial hyperpigmentation

Mumbai, Feb 4 (NVI) Alkem Laboratories Ltd today announced the launch of Kojiglo serum in India for managing facial hyperpigmentation.

Alkem said it is the first Indian company to introduce a liposomal serum with Duo-Lipo technology. The serum is suitable for all skin types.

Kojiglo serum will be available on prescription and hence it will be necessary to consult a dermatologist before using the product.

This innovative formulation combines cutting-edge ingredients such as liposomal azelaic

acid, liposomal 4-butyl resorcinol, tranexamic acid, alpha arbutin, and niacinamide, making it

a first of its kind in India to have a Duo-Lipo technology, it said in a statement.

 

This advanced serum encapsulates the active ingredients in a liposomal form to enhance penetration in the skin and deliver targeted action and the formulation ensures effective results while reducing the risk of skin sensitivity and irritation, the company said.

The active pharmaceutical ingredients are carefully sourced to meet global quality standards, offering a high-quality, reliable solution for facial hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Vikas Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of Alkem, said, “The prevalence of skin

hyperpigmentation among Indian population is quite high and awareness about managing

this condition is gradually increasing. We are pleased to introduce an advanced serum

designed to effectively address hyperpigmentation concerns.”

 

Alkem has its presence in the demelanising category with products like Kojiglo cream,

Kojiglo face wash and Kojiglo lotion.

 

With the introduction of Kojiglo serum, Alkem aims to broaden its portfolio and increase its

market share in the skincare segment.

Indian Army tests war readiness by conducting live-fire exercises in Sikkim, bordering China

Live-fire demonstration conducted by Indian Army in Sikkim

Gangtok (Sikkim), Feb 4 (NVI) With an aim of validating its battle readiness, rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities, the Indian Army has successfully conducted a live-fire exercises and performed other activities in Sikkim state, bordering China.

 

The exercises were conducted by Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps, which is headquartered in Sukna in North Bengal.

 

“The units (involved in the exercise) were specifically preparing for battle in the high-altitude mountains of Sikkim, showcasing their adaptability and readiness for diverse operational environments,” said a statement issued by the Guwahati-based Defence PRO.

 

“Through coordinated firepower and precision engagement, the units demonstrated their preparedness for a variety of challenges, including those posed by high-altitude warfare,” he said.

 

“This exercise underscores the Army’s commitment to maintaining high standards of efficiency, agility, and mission readiness, regardless of the terrain,” the spokesman said.

 

He noted that the Indian Army continues to enhance its capabilities, ensuring it remains fully equipped to meet evolving security requirements across varied landscapes. (NVI)

 

 

Pakistan: TTP says it killed & injured 155 military personnel in January month

Leaders of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) -- File Pic

Peshawar: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) killed and injured 155 personnel of Pakistani military and police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and some other places of Pakistan during the month of January, according to the Islamist organisation.

In a detailed statement to NVI, the TTP said it carried out 110 operations during the month which resulted in heavy human and material losses to the Pakistani military.

The ‘enemy casualties’ included 75 dead and 80 injured, said the statement issued by its spokesman Muhammad Khorasani.

Giving a break-up, the statement said the casualties included 73 personnel of the Pakistan Army/SSG, 48 of the paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC), 31 of the Police/Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and 3 of the Secret services.

At least 10 military personnel and their agents were also “arrested” by the TTP, it said.

The TTP operations resulted in the destruction of 8 military vehicles, 1 tanker, 30 solar plates, 17 CCTV cameras and 1 drone camera.

Among the places, Tank and North Waziristan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa saw 17 operations each, Dera Ismail Khan recorded 13 operations, South Waziristan, Khyber Agency and Bannu witnessed 13 operations each, Laki Marwat 6, Khurram Agency 3, Peshawar, Mohmand and Bajaur 2 each and Orakzai 1.

In Punjab Province, South Punjab recorded 3 operations and North Punjab and Mardan 1 each.

In Balochistan, one operation each was carried out in Zhob and Pishin.

The nature of operations included 46 Sniper/Laser Attacks, 28 Guerrilla attacks,

10 Ambushes, 14 Counterattacks, 6 Targeted Attacks, 5 Grenades/Bombings and one Suicide attack.

In these operations, the TTP seized from the Pakistani forces 13 Kalashnikovs and 16 magazines, 2 walkie talkies, 1 jeep, 1 motorcycle and other military equipment, it said.

Ex-soldier killed, wife & minor niece injured by terrorists in Kashmir

Ex-Serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay who was killed by terrorists today in Kulgam, Kashmir.

Srinagar, Feb 3 (NVI) Some unidentified terrorists today killed a former Army man and injured his wife and a minor niece in an attack in Kulgam district of Kashmir.

The Ex-Serviceman, identified as 39-year-old Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, and his family were targeted at their residence in Behibagh area of Kulgam district, sources said.

They — Manzoor Ahmad, his 32-year-old wife Aina Akhtar and 13-year-old niece Saina Hameed – were shot and injured by the terrorists who fled after the attack, the sources said.

The injured persons were evacuated to a government hospital where Manzoor Ahmad succumbed to his injuries after some time, the sources said.

Soon after the attack, security forces started an operation to hunt down the terrorists responsible for the criminal act.

“The cowardly act of terror on unarmed citizens was perpetrated by the inimical elements who do not want peace and prosperity which defines Kashmir of today,” the Army said.

“In this dastardly act of terror, even the innocent woman and child were not spared,” it said. (NVI)

Flight-trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System conducted

Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) being tested.

New Delhi: India successfully conducted today three successive flight-trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.

These tests were carried out by DRDO against high-speed targets flying at very low altitude.

During all the three flight-tests, the missiles intercepted and completely destroyed the targets having reduced thermal signature mimicking low flying drones at different flying conditions, an official statement said.

The flight-tests were carried out in final deployment configuration where in two field operators carried out weapon readiness, target acquisition and missile firing.

A group of people shooting a rocketDescription automatically generated

The flight data captured by various range instruments like Telemetry, Electro-Optical Tracking System and Radar deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, confirmed the pin-point accuracy and established the unique capability of VSHORADS missile system in neutralizing drones along with other classes of aerial threats.

The flight-tests were witnessed by senior officials of DRDO, Armed Forces and development and production partners.

VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence system designed and developed indigenously by Research Center Imarat in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Development cum Production Partners.

The missile system has the capability to meet the needs of all the three branches of the Armed Forces, viz. Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, Armed Forces and the industries for the successful flight tests, terming it as a great success.

Kashmiri Pandit delegation meets Mirwaiz Umar; decide on Inter-Community Committee for return

Kashmiri Pandit delegation meeting Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

New Delhi, Feb 1 (NVI) In a first-of-its-kind initiative, a delegation of Kashmiri Pandits held a meeting with Mirwaiz of Kashmir Maulvi Umar Farooq and the deliberations led to the decision of forming an Inter-Community Committee to be headed by the Muslim religious head of the Valley.

The meeting of the Kashmiri Pandit delegation, under the banner of JK Peace Forum and leadership of Satish Mahaldar, with the Mirwaiz of Kashmir was aimed at “fostering greater cooperation and healing between the communities of Kashmir”.

“The meeting, which lasted about one and a half hours, represented a crucial step towards addressing historical grievances and working towards a peaceful and inclusive future for Jammu and Kashmir,” said the JK Peace Forum in a statement.

The Inter-Community Committee will represent all communities of Kashmir, with focus on facilitating the safe return of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland; addressing the concerns of other minority communities; promoting economic development, trade, and employment generation; preserving Kashmir’s unique cultural heritage and encouraging cooperation among the region’s young professionals.

Additionally, the committee will explore initiatives such as government support for the rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, including the creation of inclusive designated colonies to aid their reintegration into society, the statement said.

The Kashmiri Pandit delegation emphasized that religious leaders, particularly Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, hold the moral authority to lead this initiative given their influence across the region.

Furthermore, the delegation, during the meeting yesterday, reminded Mirwaiz that as the spiritual leader of Kashmir, he represents not just the Muslim community, but also all minorities, and that his leadership is crucial in restoring the region’s peace & harmony.

During his opening remarks, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq emphasized the shared suffering of both Kashmiri Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits over the decades, it said.

The Mirwaiz “acknowledged the painful exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989-90, a chapter that continues to affect both communities, and reaffirmed that the plight of Kashmiri Pandits is a humanitarian issue and must be addressed with care and urgency,” the statement said.

He said, “Kashmir is incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits. The suffering of Kashmiri Pandits needs to be addressed earnestly, and this has been a point I have raised repeatedly in my discourses.”

The head priest of Kashmir’s Jamia Masjid, who addresses Muslim devotees after every Friday prayers at the historic mosque, said, “The younger generation must be made aware of Kashmir’s composite culture.”

In response, the Kashmiri Pandit delegation mentioned the deep hardships the community had to face after being compelled to leave the Valley under duress in 1990 for no fault of theirs.

The community members, in tented camps in Jammu, suffered from scorching heat and snake bites and were forced to sell all their properties at low prices to educate their children, the Mirwaiz was told.

The Kashmiri Pandits highlighted that despite being forced out of their homeland, they always extended support to their Muslim brothers and sisters in times of distress, and vice versa. (NVI)

Huge attack on Pakistani military in Kalat in Balochistan, 18 soldiers killed by freedom fighters

Baloch fighters somewhere in Balochistan (File Pic)

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Feb 1 (NVI) Baloch freedom fighters have caused a huge blow to the Pakistani military as it carried out a major attack at a military camp and laid siege of a key highway in Balochistan, leaving at least 18 soldiers dead and many injured.

Dozens of fighters of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)-Azad faction launched simultaneous attack on the main camp of paramilitary force Frontier Corps (FC) and set up check posts on the Quetta-Karachi highway in Mangocher area of Kalat district last night.

The attack on the FC camp was marked by explosions and heavy gunfire, heard up to several kilometers away.

At the same time, the freedom fighters set ablaze some government buildings, including a bank, and established pickets on the highway between Quetta and Karachi in Sindh province, with all the vehicles getting checked along with their occupants.

Pakistan military spokesman — Inter-Services Press Relations (ISPR) — in a statement issued this afternoon, admitted that 18 soldiers were killed in the assault by the rebels and claimed 12 attackers were also eliminated. (NVI)

Now, no Income Tax on earning up to Rs 12 lakh per annum: Finance Minister

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presenting Budget 2025-26 in Parliament today

New Delhi, Feb 1 (NVI) In a huge relief to the Middle Class and Income Tax payers, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today proposed sweeping tax reforms in the Budget 2025.

She said there will be “Zero tax” on income of up to Rs 12 lakh per annum and announced new Income Tax slabs which came as much-needed relief for the India’s middle class.

Following the announcement, tax payers with a normal income (excluding special rate income like capital gains) of up to Rs 12 lakh per financial year will have no tax liability due to a rebate and reduced slab rates.

Those earning up to Rs 12 lakh per annum will receive a tax benefit of Rs 80,000, which covers 100% of their tax payable under existing rates.

For an income of Rs 18 lakh per annum, there will be a benefit benefit is Rs 70,000, covering 30% of the tax payable.

Similarly, a person earning Rs 25 lakh per annum will get a benefit of Rs 1,10,000, which accounts for 25% of their tax liability under the current rates.

In other tax-related reliefs, Sitharaman proposed increase in the threshold for Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) on rent from Rs 2.40 lakh per annum to Rs 6 lakh per annum.

This effectively raises the monthly limit for TDS deduction on rent from Rs20,000 to Rs50,000, benefiting small taxpayers and easing compliance burdens.

In relief to the senior citizens, she proposed to double the limit for tax deduction on interest from the present Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per annum.

The Finance Minister also announced that Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances under the RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) has been increased from to Rs 10 lakh from Rs7 lakh, and TCS on remittances for education purposes, where the remittance is out of a loan from a financial institution, has been removed. (NVI)

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