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Pakistan: TTP claims killing 18 Pakistani soldiers, injuring 10 in multiple attacks

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

Peshawar, Sept 18 (NVI) Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) tonight claimed killing more than 18 personnel and injuring 10 of Pakistani military in multiple operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan since yesterday.

It reported details of 14 attacks which included ambush attacks, IED blasts, sniper attacks and even drone strike.

Five Pakistani soldiers were killed and four were injured in a bomb blast targeting a vehicle of the army in Chamkani Gardi in Sadda area of Kurram district yesterday, TTP spokesman Muhammad Khorasani said.

More casualties and injuries are believed to have been caused in a subsequent ambush of  a military unit that came to retrieve the bodies and the injured.

In North Waziristan district, TTP carried out an ambush on a military convoy in Shewah, in which 5 soldiers were killed and 3 injured yesterday, he said.

TTP lost 4 fighters in this operation, he said.

In a separate attack in North Waziristan, a soldier was killed in a laser gun attack on a military post last night in Garium, he said.

Four soldiers were killed and three injured in an ambush on an army patrol party in Khawarina area of Zhob district yesterday, the TTP spokesman said.

In Dera Ismail Khan district, 2 soldiers were killed in an attack on military vehicles by a target killer squad of the TTP last night, the spokesman said, adding one soldier escaped with injuries.

A military vehicle was burnt and a Kalashnikov and a mobile phone were seized from them, he said.

A military official was killed in a sniper attack on a post in South Waziristan, he said.

In Shakai in South Waziristan, there is a strong possibility of casualties in an attack on an army patrol party yesterday, he said.

In Peshawar,  TTP carried out a drone attack on a police post in Badaber area, in which casualties have possibly occurred, according to the spokesman.

Another drone attack was carried out on a military post in Bakakhel in Bannu district, Khorasani said, adding there is a strong possibility of casualties there. (NVI)

Monsoon in withdrawal phase, weakest in 17 years so far

New Delhi, Sept 18 (NV) As Monsoon enters its withdrawal phase, the country is on course to record its weakest Monsoon in 17 years, with cumulative rainfall 15 per cent below the Long Period Average (LPA).

The current deficit marks the sharpest shortfall since 2009, when rainfall was 18 per cent below normal.

According to the latest India Meteorological Department (IMD) report, the monsoon has started withdrawing from West Rajasthan.

The season has so far delivered 85 per cent of the LPA rainfall, compared with 108 per cent recorded in recent years.

The rainfall shortfall has been recorded across all four major geographical regions, although its intensity varies considerably. The southern peninsula has reported the largest deficiency at 28 per cent, followed by east and northeast India at 25 per cent.

Northwest India has recorded a 10 per cent rainfall deficit, while central India has reported a comparatively smaller shortfall of 6 per cent. The broad-based deficit highlights the uneven performance of the monsoon across the country during the current season.

The monsoon began with a 40 per cent rainfall deficiency by June 30, before the gap narrowed significantly to 13 per cent by July 30. However, the deficit widened again to 14 per cent by the end of August and reached 15 per cent by 17 September.

At the state level, 18 states covering nearly 55 per cent of India’s geographical area have received normal rainfall. Meanwhile, 16 states accounting for about 43 per cent of the country’s area have recorded deficient rainfall, while only one state covering 2 per cent of the area has received excess rainfall.

The weaker rainfall pattern is also raising concerns for agriculture, although sowing coverage remains relatively close to normal.

The monsoon weakness is being compounded by a severe El Nino, which has breached the temperature-rise threshold of 2 degrees Celsius.

The weather pattern began in June and is expected to peak around November and December before continuing into early 2027.

The prolonged El Nino conditions could potentially result in a milder winter, extending the weather-related risks beyond the monsoon season.

The combination of rainfall deficiency and elevated temperatures could keep pressure on agriculture and other weather-sensitive activities.

The impact of adverse weather conditions is also being reflected in global agricultural concerns. A United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) report has warned that maize, rice and other rain-fed crops are at risk from weather disruptions. (NVI)

One killed, another injured as car plunges into gorge in J&K’s Rajouri

Jalgaon

Shivam Bakshi

Rajouri, Sep 18 (NVI): One person was killed and another seriously injured after a car plunged into a deep gorge along the Kandi-Jamola road in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on Friday, officials said.

The accident occurred when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle, bearing registration number JK11F-2248, causing it to roll down the roadside and fall into the gorge, they said.

The deceased was identified as Mohammad Arif, while the injured, Sabar Hussain, was shifted to a hospital for treatment, officials said.

Police reached the spot and initiated necessary legal proceedings. The cause of the accident is being ascertained, they added.—(NVI)

HAL hands over Tejas trainers, HTT-40 aircraft to IAF; Dhruv-NG helicopters to Pawan Hans

Bengaluru, Sep 18 (NVI): Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Friday handed over two LCA Tejas Final Operational Clearance (FOC) twin-seater trainers and three HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, besides four Dhruv Next Generation (NG) helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited.

The platforms were handed over in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu at a ceremony here.

Describing the occasion as a milestone in India’s efforts to develop indigenous aerospace capabilities, Singh said the country needs to build an aerospace ecosystem capable of catering to both defence and civil aviation requirements.

He called for greater cooperation between the public and private sectors to develop next-generation aerospace technologies and reduce dependence on imports.

“There can be no sudden ‘big bang’ in the development of aerospace systems. It is a vast and gradual process involving a wide range of components,” Singh said, according to an official statement.

The Defence Minister also stressed the need for realistic timelines in technical projects, saying delays could lead to gaps in meeting defence requirements, cost escalation and the risk of technology becoming obsolete.

Singh said future air operations would be increasingly technology-driven and information-intensive, making indigenous development of advanced systems important for operational effectiveness.

He said the LCA FOC trainer would support the IAF in preparing pilots for frontline fighter operations, while the HTT-40 would meet the basic training requirements of the armed forces.

The two LCA twin-seater trainers handed over on Friday are the final aircraft under the FOC contract, according to HAL.

The HTT-40 is an indigenously designed and developed basic trainer aircraft intended for primary training of pilots. It is equipped with a modern cockpit and avionics and can undertake aerobatics, instrument flying, navigation, night flying and formation flying.

Singh said HAL should expand its capabilities across the aerospace value chain, including design, development, manufacturing, certification, maintenance and global marketing.

He also called upon young scientists, engineers, designers, test pilots and technicians to develop new technologies in areas such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, unmanned aerial systems, electronic warfare, cyber technologies and next-generation propulsion.

Naidu said the certification and induction of the Dhruv NG into civil operations marked an important development for India’s indigenous civil aviation ecosystem.

The Dhruv NG, configured for civil operations, features enhanced systems, modern avionics and a more powerful engine. It is intended for applications including passenger transport, emergency medical services and offshore logistics support.

HAL CMD Ravi K said the handover demonstrated the company’s capability to develop and deliver aircraft and helicopters for both civil and defence requirements.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha were among those present at the event.—(NVI)

Major attack on police complex in Pakistan leaves 15 dead, 55 injured

Representative pic

Peshawar, Sept 18 (NVI) A major attack was carried out today on a police complex, which housed a mosque, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan, resulting in the killing of at last least 15 people and injuries to over 55, mostly the security personnel.

The attack during the Friday prayers was started by a suicide bomber at the complex in Kohat district.

The suicide bomber, driving a explosives-laden vehicle, blew it up, after which 6 of his associates entered the complex and fired indiscriminately.

At least 15 were left dead and 55 injured. Most of the deceased and injured were police personnel.

An SP-rank police officer was among those killed in the attack, according to reports.

The blast caused destruction of the mosque and extensive damage to the police complex.

The death toll is likely to increase as several injured people are said to be in critical condition. (NVI)

Pakistan: Bomb blast at Police complex in Khyber, 15 killed, 55 injured

Chhattisgarh
Representative pic of a blast

Peshawar, Sept 18 (NVI) A suspected suicide bomber today targeted a police complex, including a mosque, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan, resulting in the killing of at least 15 civilians and police personnel, while over 55 were injured.

An SP-rank police officer was among those killed in the attack that took place during the Friday prayers at a mosque located in the Police Lines complex in Kohat.

The blast caused destruction of the mosque and extensive damage to the police complex.

The death toll is likely to increase as several injured people are said to be in critical condition. (NVI)

 

 

J&K LG Sinha hands over appointment letters to 29 newly appointed JKPS officers

Srinagar, Sep 18 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday handed over appointment letters to 29 newly appointed Jammu and Kashmir Police Service (JKPS) officers and urged them to discharge their duties with courage, integrity and compassion.

Addressing the newly appointed officers, Sinha said the appointment letters symbolise the trust and expectations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and carry with them the responsibility to serve society with professionalism and sensitivity.

He asked the young officers to remain committed to the principles of justice and public service throughout their careers, saying the police uniform carries both authority and responsibility.

The lieutenant governor said the officers, after completing their mandatory training, would assume responsibilities related to maintaining peace, protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law.

He said the newly appointed officers would also have an important role in addressing evolving security challenges and protecting society.

Sinha congratulated the 29 officers on their appointment and expressed confidence that they would perform their responsibilities with dedication and commitment.

He also acknowledged the contribution of their families in nurturing among them the values of discipline, dedication and service.

The appointment ceremony marked the beginning of the officers’ professional careers, with the newly appointed JKPS officers set to undergo prescribed training before assuming field responsibilities in Jammu and Kashmir.—(NVI)

Army Commander visits area where 2 terrorists were killed in Udhampur

Indian Army Corps Commander in Udhampur

Shivam Bakshi

Jammu, Sep 18 (NVI) A day after security forces killed two terrorists, Commander of Army’s Nagrota-based White Knight Corps Lt Gen P.K. Mishra today visited the area in Udhampur district to assess the ground situation.

Security of Udhampur and other parts of Jammu region is the responsibility of White Knight Corps on behalf of the Indian Army.

Gen Mishra was accompanied by the General Officer Commanding of the Delta Force when he visited Brattal area in Udhampur district to review ongoing counter-terrorism operations, a day after two terrorists of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit were killed in an encounter by a joint team of the Army, J&K Police and CRPF.

The Corps Commander reviewed the evolving security environment, operational dynamics and measures to maintain the operational tempo, ensuring a coordinated and swift response to emerging threats, the Army said.

He also commended the troops for the successful neutralisation of two terrorists and lauded their resolute action, high morale and commitment during the operations.

The Army said the commanders stressed the need for continued vigilance and preparedness during the ongoing operations.—(NVI)

J&K LG Sinha flags off Harmukh-Gangbal pilgrimage in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Sep 18 (NVI) Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday flagged off the annual Harmukh-Gangbal pilgrimage in Ganderbal, describing it as a living expression of the region’s ancient faith and cultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Sinha said the pilgrimage represents a sacred link between India’s glorious past and vibrant present and promotes devotion, purity and unity in diversity.

He said Jammu and Kashmir has for millennia been nourished by an unbroken stream of faith, with the region’s spiritual significance also finding mention in ancient texts, including Kalhana’s Rajatarangini.

Referring to the Nilamata Purana, the LG said Mount Harmukh, also known as Harmukut, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal Lake, located at an altitude of around 14,500 feet, is regarded as the sacred presence of Mother Ganga.

Despite difficult terrain and historical upheavals, devotees have maintained their spiritual connection with the pilgrimage site, he said, adding that Gangbal is also associated with paying homage to ancestors and is considered comparable in sanctity to Haridwar.

Sinha said Himalayan pilgrimages teach humility before nature and encourage people to embrace noble thoughts, thereby contributing to social harmony.

“On the pilgrimage, no one is superior or inferior. All are seekers of truth, united in spirituality. This is the strength of our eternal culture,” he said.

The LG urged pilgrims to take a pledge to protect the environment and preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, particularly in view of climate change and other environmental challenges.

“During the journey, we realise that nature is our heritage and that we have a responsibility towards it,” he said.

Sinha also referred to the ongoing Seva Sankalp Abhiyan and appealed to citizens and the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust to participate in activities such as cleanliness drives, blood donation camps, health camps, tree plantation and youth programmes.

He said spiritual journeys strengthen collective consciousness and bring people closer to nature.

“May the snow-clad peaks of Harmukh inspire us to cultivate lofty thoughts, and may the blessings and compassion of Lord Shiva remain with all the pilgrims,” Sinha said.

MP Mian Altaf Ahmad, Kangan MLA Mian Mehar Ali, Principal Secretary to the LG Mandeep K. Bhandari, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, IGP Kashmir Sujit Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore and members of the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust, besides religious leaders, civil and police officers and devotees, attended the flag-off ceremony.—(NVI)

Suspicious balloon bearing ‘PIA’ inscription found in J&K’s Samba

Shivam Bakshi

Samba, Sep 18 (NVI) A suspicious balloon bearing the inscription “PIA” was found lying in the Khara Madan area of Purmandal in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district on Friday, officials said.

The balloon was spotted by locals, who subsequently informed the Purmandal police station, following which a police team reached the spot, they said.

Police are verifying the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the balloon, officials said.

Further details are awaited.—(NVI)

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