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Indian Army jawan injured in Landmine Explosion Along LoC in Jammu and Kashmir

Indian Army jawan injured in Landmine Explosion Along LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
File Photo

Jammu, Apr 18 (NVI): An Army soldier was injured in a landmine explosion along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Balakot area of Poonch district in Jammu on Saturday

The incident occurred during an area domination patrol, in which an Agniveer sustained injuries. He was immediately shifted to a hospital and is stated to be in stable condition.

They said landmines in forward areas, laid as part of anti-infiltration measures, can sometimes get displaced due to rains, leading to such incidents.

In a separate operation, a rusted mortar shell was detected in a border village and was safely defused by Army experts in a controlled explosion without causing any damage, they added.(NVI)

Confrontation escalates between US and Iran as Trump threatens to start ‘dropping bombs again’

Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump (File Pic)

New Delhi, Apr 18: Nearly a week after the failed talks in Islamabad, the US and Iran are back to the confrontational path, with American President Donald Trump talking about “dropping bombs again” and Iran announcing resumption of blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The fresh developments indicate hardening of positions by both the warring sides, adding to worries in the countries around the world which have been hoping for early resumption of free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly of the flow of energy.

“Maybe I won’t extend it, but the blockade (on Iranian ports) is going to remain,” Trump told reporters on board US Air Force One when asked about the prospects of the two-week ceasefire which ends on April 22.

“So, you have a blockade, and unfortunately we have to start dropping bombs again,” he went on to add.

He stated this while emphasising that a deal must be reached with Iran by April 22.

Soon after Trump’s threatening comments, Iran re-imposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, reversing its earlier decision to reopen the critical waterway, and accused the US of violating a ceasefire.

Iran’s joint military command said that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state … under strict management and control of the armed forces.” It warned that it would continue to block transit through the strait as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports remained in effect.

On April 11 and 12 in Islamabad, during the first top-level direct talks in 47 years, both the US and Iran spelt out their conditions, which were mostly not acceptable to the other side.

Since those failed talks on April 11 and 12, there have been differing kinds of statements by both the US and Iran, creating a lot of confusion.

The main focus has been on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor that handles nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Although the US last night said the Strait of Hormuz has been “opened by Iran”, Tehran said spelt out certain conditions for it, particularly emphasising that navigation would be governed by the Iranian authorities.

The US has enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian ports since mid-April, aiming to restrict maritime movement linked to Tehran.

American officials have said vessels attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports have been turned back under the enforcement regime. Iran, however, has condemned the move as illegal and provocative.

Iranian has suggested that any continued blockade could directly impact shipping access through Hormuz, raising concerns among global markets already sensitive to supply disruptions.

Trump’s latest comments underscore a widening gap between the two sides, even as both publicly signal openness to a deal.

The US president has repeatedly expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, while simultaneously warning of military consequences if talks collapse.

J&K Govt Takes Over 58 JeI-Linked Schools, DCs to Ensure Continuity

Srinagar, Apr 18 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken over the management of 58 schools found to be linked with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT), officials said on Saturday.

The move follows notifications issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs declaring Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir, an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

Officials said intelligence agencies had identified 58 functional schools having direct or indirect links with JeI/FAT. The managing committees of these institutions had either expired or were reported adversely.

The School Education Department has directed the concerned Deputy Commissioners to take over the management of these schools and propose fresh managing committees after due verification.

The decision has been taken to safeguard the academic interests of students and ensure that studies continue without disruption, officials said.

Authorities have also been asked to maintain educational standards in line with the National Education Policy and ensure that students do not suffer any academic loss.

Teams from the School Education Department have been deputed to the schools to oversee the process.

Earlier, in August 2025, the government had similarly taken over the management of 215 schools linked to JeI and FAT across the Union Territory.(NVI)

Unsettled Weather to Hit J&K on Apr 18–19, Dry Spell Ahead: MeT

Rainfall
Representational image

Srinagar, Apr 18 (NVI): The Meteorological Department on Saturday forecast unsettled weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir on April 18 and 19, with improvement expected thereafter.

Director MeT Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said the weather is likely to remain partly to generally cloudy, accompanied by intermittent spells of light rain and thundershowers at several places across the Union Territory.

He added that gusty winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph and hailstorms are also likely at a few locations during this period.

From April 20 to 23, weather conditions are expected to remain generally dry, while between April 24 and 26, the region may witness mostly dry weather with brief spells of light rain or thundershowers at isolated places, particularly during afternoon hours.

The MeT department has advised farmers to suspend agricultural operations on April 18 and 19 in view of the expected adverse weather conditions.(NVi)

30 Vehicles Rescued at Razdhan Pass After Snowfall Disrupts Traffic in J&K’s Bandipora

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Srinagar, Apr 18 (NVI): Around 30 vehicles, including those carrying tourists, were rescued after being stranded due to fresh snowfall at Razdhan Pass along the Gurez–Bandipora road in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district Saturday.

The vehicles got stuck on Friday evening after sudden snowfall made the road slippery and unsafe for movement, they said.

A joint team of Bandipora Police and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) launched a rescue operation and evacuated all stranded vehicles by late evening despite difficult weather conditions and challenging terrain.

Officials said 12 tourist vehicles and 18 passenger vehicles were among those stranded along the stretch near the pass for several hours.

No casualties were reported in the incident.

The Gurez–Bandipora road remained closed for the second consecutive day due to fresh snowfall at Razdhan Pass, while light to moderate rainfall was also reported in parts of the Gurez Valley.

Authorities have advised commuters to check weather and road conditions before undertaking travel and avoid movement during adverse weather.(NVI)

5.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Afghanistan, Tremors Felt in Kashmir; No Immediate Damage Reported

earthquke
(File/Representational image)

Srinagar, Apr 18 (NVI): An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Afghanistan on Saturday, with tremors felt across the Kashmir Valley, officials said.

The quake triggered brief panic among residents in parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, as people rushed out of their homes and offices.

However, there were no immediate reports of any damage to property or loss of life from anywhere in the Valley, officials added.

Authorities said the situation is being monitored closely.(NVI)

Farooq Abdullah Flags Concerns Over Delimitation, Legislative Process; Calls for Transparency

File photo: National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Apr 17 (NVI): Farooq Abdullah on Friday voiced concern over the ongoing delimitation exercise and recent legislative developments, saying people are apprehensive and the process being followed is “not correct”.

Speaking to reporters here, the National Conference president questioned the Centre’s intent behind reintroducing a previously withdrawn bill. “They withdrew the bill first as concerns were raised and they knew a two-thirds majority would not be achieved. Then overnight they decided to bring back the old bill passed in 2023,” he said.

Abdullah said the government lacks the required numbers for a two-thirds majority and added that the situation has created uncertainty among people. “What they will do now, only God knows. But the truth is that people are worried, and this approach is wrong. I hope they listen to the people,” he said.

Referring to the delimitation exercise, he said it has already triggered serious concerns. “You have seen how delimitation was done here. Now people are even more worried than before. What is their purpose? That is the question,” he added.

On international developments, including possible US-Iran engagement, Abdullah said any agreement would be welcome. Referring to remarks by former US President Donald Trump, he said peace efforts should be encouraged as global stability is linked to the issue.

Commenting on West Bengal politics, Abdullah expressed confidence that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee would win the upcoming elections.(NVI)

IGP Kashmir Reviews Security Ahead of Upcoming Events, Calls for Heightened Vigilance

Srinagar, Apr 17 (NVI): Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi on Friday chaired a high-level security review meeting at Police Control Room (PCR) here to assess and finalise arrangements for forthcoming events across the Valley.

The meeting was attended by senior officers from CRPF, BSF, SSB, ITBP, Army, CID and Jammu and Kashmir Police, including district SSPs and traffic officials.

During the meeting, the IGP stressed strengthening the existing security grid and directed enhanced deployment at sensitive and vulnerable locations, including key tourist destinations, to ensure a secure environment.

He instructed officers to intensify surveillance on anti-national elements and maintain strict vigil along inter-district boundaries to prevent any suspicious movement.

Birdi also issued directions for effective traffic management in Srinagar city, calling for a comprehensive plan to ease congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement with minimal public inconvenience.

Reviewing preparedness for Hajj arrangements, he asked officials to ensure adequate security and coordination for the safe movement of pilgrims.

The IGP further directed strict monitoring of social media platforms to curb misinformation and called for intensified cordon and search operations, particularly in sensitive areas and along national highways.

He emphasised maintaining high levels of coordination and preparedness to ensure smooth and successful conduct of all upcoming events in the Kashmir Valley.(NVI)

Omar Abdullah unveils SCC jersey, reiterates push for sports development in J&K

Jammu, Apr 17 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday unveiled the jersey of the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Club (SCC) at a function here, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting sports and nurturing young talent across the Union Territory.

The event was attended by Youth Services and Sports Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, and members of the club.

Praising the club’s contribution to the development of cricket, Abdullah said the government would extend all possible support to encourage sporting activities and provide opportunities for youth to excel.

SCC President Aman Cheema highlighted the club’s achievements, stating that it has participated in and won several tournaments. He said the club plays a constructive role in engaging youth and helping steer them away from negative influences, including drug abuse, by channelising their energy into sports.

Earlier, the Chief Minister also released a wildlife publication titled “Checklist of Mammals of Jammu and Kashmir, India.” A delegation of wildlife ecologists led by Muzaffar Kichloo briefed him on their ongoing and upcoming projects.

Abdullah commended their efforts and stressed the importance of scientific research and conservation in preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.(NVI)

Altaf Bukhari calls parole for jailed MP Er Rashid

Srinagar, April 17 (NVI): Visiting Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, battling a critical illness at SMHS hospital, the father of incarcerated Member of Parliament (MP) Engineer Rashid, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, on Friday, appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to consider his release.

Taking to the micro-blogging site X, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari wrote: “I visited Khazir Mohammad Sheikh Sahib, the ailing father of Engineer Rashid Sahib, at SMHS Hospital in Srinagar, where he is battling his critical illness and has been placed on ventilator support. His condition is extremely serious, and his family is passing through an incredibly difficult and distressing time.

In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with them and pray to the Almighty Allah to bless Khazir Sahib with Shifa-e-Kamila and strength to overcome this grave condition.”

Appealing to the Prime Minister and Home Minister for granting parole to Engineer Rashid, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari wrote, “I request Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Home Minister Amit Shah to consider granting parole to the incarcerated Member of Parliament, Engineer Rashid, so that he can be with his ailing father and distressed family members.

Allowing him to be with his family in this time of crisis would be a humane and dignified decision, and it will be appreciated by one and all in Jammu and Kashmir.”(NVI)

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