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TTP continues to bleed Pakistani forces; killed 315 personnel, injured 380 in May month

Cadres of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). (File Pic)
Cadres of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). (File Pic)

Peshawar, June 2: Under the ‘Operation Khyber’, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) continues to inflict heavy damage and destruction on the Pakistani forces.

During the last month (May), at least 315 personnel of Pakistani Army and other forces were killed and 380 injured in 309 ‘operations’, according to its spokesman Muhammad Khorasani.

These operations were conducted across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab Provinces of Pakistan and Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan.

In a detailed statement, Khorasani said the types of operations included 71 Sniper/Laser Attacks, 67 Guerrilla Attacks, 39 Ambush Attacks, 37 Targeted Attacks, 28 Confrontational Attacks, 23 Grenade/Bomb Explosions, 22 Missile Attacks, 21 Retaliatory Attacks and 1 Suicide Attack.

Besides killing 315 and injuring 380 personnel of Pakistani forces, these attacks also resulted in large-scale destruction of the assets of the Pakistani military, including one weapon depot, 60 vehicles and trucks, 4 Tanks and armoured vehicles, 12 military and police installations, 6 drones and 58 security cameras.

At least 16 personnel of the Pakistani forces were captured by the TTP, Khorasani said.

The TTP seized a large quantity of arms and ammunition from the Pakistani forces.

These included 47 pieces of Rifles/Guns, 7 Motorcycles and other vehicles, 2 rocket launchers and one Dumper Truck.

Among the institutions affected, 344 belonged to the Army/SSG, 223 to Frontier Corps (FC), 81 to Police/CTD and 47 to Intelligence agencies and affiliated ‘Peace Committees’.

Among the various places where the operations were carried out, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province saw the maximum number.

In this province, 89 were carried out in South Waziristan district, 49 in North Waziristan district, 27 in Dera Ismail Khan district, 24 in Peshawar district, 22 in Bajaur district, 19 in Tank district, 15 in Khyber district, 12 in Lakki Marwat district and 11 in Bannu district.

At least 8 attacks were carried out in Orakzai district, 4 each in Swat, Pishin and Mohmand districts, 3 in Kohat district and 2 in Khurram district.

Punjab Province saw 3 attacks.

Gilgit-Baltistan saw 9 attacks and Balochistan 3.

India tests Indigenous RudraM-II Air-to-Surface Missile

India tests Indigenous RudraM-II Air-to-Surface Missile
India tests Indigenous RudraM-II Air-to-Surface Missile

New Delhi, June 2 (NVI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) have successfully conducted flight-tests of the indigenous RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from an airborne platform, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.

According to the ministry, the missile was tested under extreme release conditions, validating the performance of all critical subsystems. After launch, the missile accurately struck a predefined target, meeting all mission objectives.

The successful tests were verified through flight data recorded by various tracking and monitoring instruments deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Odisha.

RudraM-II has been developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and ITR.

The missile programme also received support from development-cum-production partners, defence public sector undertakings, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and several industry partners.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the IAF, defence PSUs and industry stakeholders on the successful tests, saying the achievement reflects the growing maturity of indigenous defence technologies and strengthens India’s drive towards self-reliance in advanced weapon systems.

DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Samir V. Kamat, also congratulated the teams involved in the successful flight-tests.(NVI)

Haryana gets investment commitments of Rs 1.1 lakh crore

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini addressing 'Make-in-Haryana' meet

New Delhi, June 2: Haryana has received investment commitments worth approximately Rs. 1,10,000 crore across multiple sectors at its flagship ‘Make-in-Haryana’ meet.

Rs 30,000 Crores worth projects will be in the form of FDI, according to Haryana government officials.

The event was inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in the presence of Industries Minister, Rao Narbir Singh and executives of leading industry groups, investors, MSMEs, startup founders, foreign delegations from across the country.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that Haryana is fully prepared for the next phase of industrial growth and is committed towards faster governance, investor facilitation, strong infrastructure, employment generation, and industry partnership.

He highlighted that the new policy framework reflects Haryana’s vision of becoming one of India’s most competitive and future-ready manufacturing and investment destinations.

The Industries Minister said the newly-launched policies aim to strengthen manufacturing, encourage sector-specific growth, support MSMEs, attract global investments, and build a strong future-ready industrial ecosystem in the State.

The Government launched the “Make in Haryana” Policy along with 9 new sectoral policies to accelerate investments across key sectors, including manufacturing, electric vehicles, electronics, food processing, data centres, GCCs, advanced manufacturing, toys and sports goods, and emerging industries.

Key highlights of the flagship policy are:

• The “Make in Haryana” Policy introduces a major reform in the State’s industrial framework by replacing the legacy A/B/C/D block categorization system with a simplified and more transparent area classification framework.

• For the first time, fiscal incentives have been extended across the entire State to promote balanced industrial growth.

• The policy provides substantial capital support of up to 30% along with Net SGST reimbursement incentives to improve project viability and accelerate investments.

• To strengthen innovation-led manufacturing, the policy also offers R&D incentives of up to INR 50 crore and export-linked incentives to support industries integrating with global value chains.

• Special provisions have also been introduced to support export-oriented units impacted by geopolitical disruptions through one-time diversification support. In addition, the policy promotes green and sustainable manufacturing through incentives for renewable energy adoption, carbon credit generation, Zero Liquid Discharge systems, and green building certifications.

• The policy also enables industries to leverage a 50 percent top-up on incentives received under Government of India schemes such as PLI, while simultaneously supporting the development of Mega Private Industrial Parks to catalyse the next phase of industrial expansion in the State.

• Further, to strengthen ease of doing business and investor confidence, the policy introduces a time-bound and transparent incentive disbursement mechanism, including faster processing timelines for incentive approvals and disbursement.

During the event, the State Government also launched a revamped and AI-enabled “Single Window 2.0” system, an investor facilitation platform aimed at transforming the investor experience in Haryana.

The platform has been designed to use AI capabilities to generate an AI-enabled Investment Blueprint, a Single Click GIS Land Identification Platform, designed to make land identification seamless, assess all incentives and understand all regulatory approvals for any piece of industrial land in the State.

The new system has the feature of Smart AI Agent, which keeps the query handling conversational rather than question-and-answer-based.

The portal also enables investors to calculate the quantum of incentives, as per the investment inputs and also understand the Clearances/ Approvals required to start the business operations.

This portal is designed to translate the vision of the Make in Haryana Policy into reality.

Another major highlight of the event was the announcement of “Happening Haryana”, the State’s upcoming Global Investors Summit, which aims to put Haryana strongly on the world investment map.

The event also witnessed the signing and exchange of MoUs worth Rs. 90,000 crore across sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, electronics, food processing, renewable energy, and MSMEs. Officials stated that these investment commitments are expected to generate significant employment opportunities and strengthen industrial development across the State, and also reflect confidence in the new policy regime of the State.

The Government reiterated that Haryana remains committed to providing proactive support, faster approvals, seamless facilitation, and a partnership-driven approach for industries and investors.

With strong connectivity, strategic access to NCR, expanding industrial infrastructure, and a rapidly growing manufacturing ecosystem, Haryana continues to emerge as one of India’s preferred destinations for investments.

J&K CM Omar Abdullah Receives First Batch of Haj Pilgrims at Srinagar Airport

J&K CM Omar Abdullah receives first batch of Haj pilgrims at Srinagar airport on their return home
J&K CM Omar Abdullah receives first batch of Haj pilgrims at Srinagar airport on their return home

Srinagar, Jun 2 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday welcomed the first batch of Haj pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia at Srinagar International Airport and assured them of all necessary assistance during their arrival.

The first Haj flight carrying 144 pilgrims, including 74 men and 70 women, landed at Srinagar airport, officials said.

Abdullah greeted the returning pilgrims and congratulated them on successfully completing the annual pilgrimage.

Interacting with the pilgrims, the chief minister expressed hope that their prayers and spiritual experiences would contribute to peace, prosperity and well-being in Jammu and Kashmir and across the country.

He also enquired about the arrangements made for the pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia and their return journey, and wished them good health and a blessed life ahead.

The chief minister appreciated the efforts of various departments and agencies involved in facilitating the smooth arrival of the pilgrims and directed the authorities to ensure efficient baggage handling, transportation and other support services.

Abdullah had recently taken up with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry the issue of delays in the transportation of Haj pilgrims’ baggage and sought timely delivery and seamless handling of luggage.

According to officials, a total of 4,641 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir performed Haj this year, of whom 3,952 are scheduled to return through the Srinagar Embarkation Point.

The return flights are scheduled to operate between June 2 and June 16.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Budgam Amir Athar Khan and senior officials of the civil administration, Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee and Airport Authority were present at the airport.(NVI)

GOC White Knight Corps Reviews Operation Sheruwali in Rajouri, Commends Troops for Operational Excellence

Rajouri, Jun 2 (NVI): General Officer Commanding (GOC), White Knight Corps, accompanied by the GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (Romeo), on Tuesday visited the Gambhir Mughlan area of Rajouri district to review the progress of the ongoing Operation Sheruwali and assess the operational situation on the ground.

During the visit, the Corps Commander was briefed on the operational strategy, ongoing actions, and sustainment measures being undertaken as part of the anti-terror operation. He also reviewed the logistics framework supporting troops deployed in the rugged and challenging terrain.

The GOC commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and meticulous execution of operational tasks, praising their commitment and determination in pursuing the mission objectives.

According to the Army, high morale, unwavering focus, and steadfast resolve continue to drive the operation forward as security forces maintain pressure in the area.

Operation Sheruwali, launched following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the Gambhir Mughlan-Dorimal belt of Rajouri, remains underway with security forces continuing search and surveillance efforts in the region.

The White Knight Corps reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security through sustained operational readiness, stating that the hunt for the terrorists continues.(NVI)

NC Minister Sakina Itoo Blames Mehbooba Mufti for J&K’s Political Setbacks

File Photo : Sakina Itoo, Minister for Social Welfare, Health, and Education

Srinagar, Jun 2 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday accused PDP president Mehbooba Mufti of prioritising power over public interest and held her responsible for several political and constitutional developments in the Union Territory, including the abrogation of Article 370 and loss of statehood.

Speaking to reporters here, Itoo alleged that Mufti declined an offer of unconditional support from National Conference president Farooq Abdullah after the collapse of the PDP-BJP coalition government in 2018.

She claimed Abdullah had offered support to prevent the BJP from returning to power and had not sought any ministerial position in return.

“When the BJP withdrew support from her government, Farooq Abdullah offered unconditional support to keep the BJP away from power. But she rejected it,” Itoo said.

The National Conference leader alleged that decisions taken during the PDP-BJP alliance contributed to the political situation that followed in Jammu and Kashmir, including the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A in August 2019 and the downgrading of the erstwhile state into a Union Territory.

“Today there is no statehood, no Article 370, no Article 35A. People have suffered and many remain in jail,” she said.

Referring to political developments after 2019, Itoo said Abdullah had repeatedly advocated a united platform of regional political parties but alleged that Mufti did not support such initiatives.

She also criticised the BJP over demolition drives in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that the action disproportionately affected poorer sections of society.

“Action should be taken equally against all encroachers, including influential people. The law must be applied uniformly,” Itoo said.

Itoo said the National Conference would continue to press for the restoration of statehood and protection of the rights and identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.(NVI)

Rajouri anti-terror operation enters 11th day; search intensified in forest belt

Rajouri, June 02 (NVI) : Security forces on Tuesday intensified the ongoing anti-terror operation in a forested area of Rajouri district, with the massive cordon-and-search operation entering its 11th day, officials said.

The operation is being conducted in difficult terrain comprising dense forests, steep hills and rugged access routes, posing significant challenges for the security personnel involved in the search.

Officials said troops have strengthened the security grid and are carrying out extensive searches while maintaining close surveillance on all movement in and around the operational area.

Security forces are making sustained efforts to trace and neutralise the terrorists believed to be hiding in the area, they said.

Additional security arrangements have been put in place across the forest belt to prevent any escape attempts, while search operations continue in a coordinated manner, officials added.(NVI)

Srinagar Airport to Remain Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays from July to September for Runway Repairs

Srinagar International Airport

Srinagar, June 2 (NVI): Flight operations at Srinagar International Airport will remain suspended every Monday and Tuesday from July 1 to September 30 due to extensive runway repair and resurfacing works, airport authorities said on Tuesday.

Airport Director Javed Anjum said the closure is part of a planned maintenance programme aimed at upgrading the airport’s runway infrastructure.

“Passenger flight operations will remain suspended every Monday and Tuesday during July, August and September due to runway repair works,” Anjum said.

The revised schedule replaces an earlier proposal under which the airport was expected to remain shut on weekends between August 1 and October 15.

The airport has already been operating under restricted timings following a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force, which limited flight operations between 8 am and 5 pm till July 31 to facilitate ongoing repair work.

Despite the restrictions, Srinagar Airport continues to handle around 35 to 40 flight arrivals daily, with airlines adjusting their schedules in accordance with the summer timetable approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Officials said airlines have been informed about the revised closure schedule and are expected to make necessary adjustments to their flight operations during the maintenance period.

The temporary suspension of services is likely to impact nearly two lakh passengers over the three months, based on the airport’s average passenger traffic.

The development comes amid ongoing runway maintenance works that have also affected certain airport operations, including the movement of baggage of returning Haj pilgrims. (NVI)

Iran suspends talks with US after fresh Israeli attacks on Lebanon

Iranian president Pezeshkian (File Pic)

New Delhi, June 1: In a turn for the worse, Iran today reportedly decided to suspend negotiations with the US alleging violation of the terms of ceasefire as Israel carried out fresh major airstrikes on Lebanon.

Iranian media reported that the talks will remain suspended till all conditions of the ceasefire are adhered to, which includes halt to attacks on Lebanon.

“Due to the continuation of the Zionist regime’s actions in Lebanon and given that Lebanon was one of the preconditions of the ceasefire and that this ceasefire has now been violated on all fronts … the Iranian negotiating team will suspend talks and the exchange of texts through mediators,” Iranian news agency Tasnim reported.

It said that Iran would consider a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the critical maritime route for movement of global energy.

Iran will also choke other waterways, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait with the aim of punishing Israel and its supporters, the report said, quoting unnamed Iranian official.

Just before this report, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted a statement on social media, saying Lebanon was part of the ceasefire agreement reached with the US in early April.

The Iranian decision came hours after Israel carried out major airstrikes on Lebanon, caused widespread destruction.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also ordered expansion of attacks on Lebanon to target Hezbollah.

Since April, Iran and the US had been holding indirect negotiations via Pakistan with an objective of reaching an agreement that would end their hostilities

The indirect talks began after a ceasefire announced to end 40 days of intense fighting that began with the joint air strikes by the US and Israel on February 28.

The military conflict killed thousands of people, including the Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several other senior leaders and officials of the country.

It also caused huge economic impact for countries around the world as the flow of energy from West Asia came to a virtual halt due to closure of the Strait of Hormuz, sending fuel prices soaring.

CM Omar Abdullah Urges Centre to Ensure Timely Delivery of Haj Pilgrims’ Baggage

File Photo : J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, June 1 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the Centre to intervene and ensure the timely transportation of baggage belonging to Haj pilgrims returning to the Union Territory from Saudi Arabia.

In a letter to Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Abdullah highlighted the difficulties faced by pilgrims due to delays in the delivery of their checked-in baggage.

The Chief Minister said that because of ongoing maintenance work and operational constraints at Srinagar Airport, the baggage of returning pilgrims is reportedly being transported separately and routed by road from Ahmedabad, leading to significant delays.

He noted that many of the pilgrims are elderly and undertake the Haj pilgrimage after years of preparation and devotion. The delay in receiving their belongings has caused inconvenience and disappointment to them and their families, he said.

Abdullah also stressed the religious and social importance of the baggage, which often contains Zamzam water, dates and other items traditionally distributed among relatives, neighbours and well-wishers upon return from Haj. The delays, he said, have disrupted these long-standing customs associated with the pilgrimage.

Seeking the Union Minister’s intervention, the Chief Minister requested that arrangements be made to ensure pilgrims’ baggage is transported safely and simultaneously with them on the same flights to Jammu and Kashmir.

He expressed hope that an early resolution of the issue would ease the hardships faced by returning pilgrims and help preserve the sanctity of items carrying deep religious and sentimental significance.(NVI)

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