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J&K Police Extend Navratra, Eid-ul-Fitr Greetings

File Photo: J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat

Srinagar, Mar 19 (NVI): Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on Thursday extended greetings on the occasions of Navratra and Eid-ul-Fitr to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, including the families of martyrs.

In a message, the DGP, on behalf of all ranks of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, conveyed his best wishes for peace, prosperity and communal harmony in the Union Territory.

He also expressed solidarity with the families of martyrs and prayed for the well-being of all citizens, the police said.(NVI)

J&K Govt Regulates Treasury Operations for March-End, Issues Guidelines

Srinagar, Mar 19 (NVI): The Finance Department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has issued detailed guidelines regulating treasury operations during the closing days of the financial year 2025–26, directing strict adherence by Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) and Treasury Officers.

According to an official circular, the last date for submission of bills by DDOs at treasuries has already been notified through Government Order No. 106-F of 2026 dated March 18, and must be followed without exception.

The department has instructed DDOs to ensure that all prescribed codal formalities are completed before submitting bills, making it clear that any rejection due to incomplete or incorrect documentation will be the sole responsibility of the concerned officers.

It said hard copies of bills, complete in all respects, must be submitted to the respective treasuries by or before 4:00 PM on the notified closing dates.

Treasury Officers have been directed to submit liabilities to their respective directorates by 5:00 PM, which must then be forwarded to the Directorate General of Accounts and Treasuries by 6:00 PM.

“All bills presented shall be subject to special audit,” the circular said.

For final payments, the department said all authorised transactions should be processed in a time-bound manner up to 10:00 PM under special arrangements with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), ensuring prompt communication of any rejection or return notifications to the concerned DDOs and the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

The circular further directed that Provincial Directors and Treasury Officers must remain present in their offices on March 31, 2026, until confirmation of successful transaction acknowledgements and debit notifications is received from the RBI, it added.(NVI)

Anantnag Establishes Control Room, Helpline to Curb Black-Marketing of LPG

Gas cylinder
Representational/file image

Anantnag, Mar 19 (NVI): The district administration in Anantnag has set up a round-the-clock control room to monitor and curb hoarding and black-marketing of petroleum products, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and other essential commodities, officials said.

The move follows Government Order No. 19-JK (FCS&CA) of 2026 dated March 16, aimed at ensuring proper supply and distribution of essential items and compliance with consumer norms, including monitoring the e-KYC status of LPG consumers.

An order issued by the Additional District Magistrate Anantnag stated that the control room will function 24×7 to ensure effective coordination and communication for overseeing availability, distribution, and supply chain management of essential commodities across the district.

A team comprising Malik Muzaffar Ahmad (Assistant Director Food), Reyaz Ahmad Bhat (In-charge Supplies), Tawseef Yousuf (SDRF Constable), Rouf Ahmad (SDRF Constable), and Rayees Ahmad Wani (FM) has been deputed to manage the facility.

The control room will be responsible for centralized monitoring, data collection and compilation, submission of reports to the divisional-level control room, and dissemination of directions received from the state control room, the order said.

The administration has also launched a dedicated helpline (01932227112) to enable residents to seek information regarding availability of LPG and other essential commodities, and to register grievances for prompt redressal, officials added.(NVI)

Govt committed to equitable, affordable healthcare for all: Sakeena Itoo

Srinagar, Mar 18 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday said the government is resolute in its mission to provide equitable, inclusive and affordable healthcare to every citizen.

She made the remarks after inaugurating a 50-bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Chawalgam in Kulgam, built at an estimated cost of ₹7.40 crore.

The minister said the facility marks a significant step in promoting traditional systems of medicine alongside modern healthcare. She emphasized that integrating AYUSH services would expand treatment options and help revive indigenous healing practices.

“The government is committed to strengthening a diversified healthcare system that respects tradition while embracing innovation,” she said.

The hospital will offer services in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani and Homeopathy, aimed at providing accessible and affordable care to people in Kulgam and nearby areas, she added.

Highlighting preventive healthcare, Itoo said AYUSH systems play an important role in lifestyle management, chronic disease care and immunity enhancement. She noted that the hospital would also function as a centre for health awareness and community outreach programmes.

According to officials, the facility includes inpatient wards, outpatient departments, Panchakarma therapy units, diagnostic services, yoga and wellness centres, and consultation chambers.

The minister said strengthening healthcare infrastructure in rural and underserved areas remains a key priority and assured adequate manpower and resources for smooth functioning of the hospital.

Member of Legislative Assembly Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and Deputy Commissioner Shahzad Alam were among those present on the occasion.

Pakistan: TTP claims killing more than 50 Pakistani soldiers and associates

Pakistan: TTP claims killing 73 Pakistani soldiers in 6 days
Special squad of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) undergoing training. (File Pic)

Peshawar, Mar 18: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claims to have killed more than 50 Pakistani soldiers and associates and wounded several others in dozens of attacks across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and some other parts of Pakistan in a span of 4 days.

 

 

The biggest damage was caused to the Pakistani military in South Waziristan where the TTP ambushed a convoy and destroyed several vehicles in Raghzai area of Angoor Adda, according to its spokesman Muhammad Khorasani.

 

 

The attack on the main road on March 16 left at least 20 Pakistani soldiers killed and wounded, he said.

 

 

In a separate attack on the same day, four Pakistani soldiers were killed and two injured in a landmine blast carried out by TTP, targeting a foot patrol in Tarakai area of Sarwekai in South Waziristan.

 

 

One more attack was carried out on a military post in Sarki Khel area of Azam Warsak in South Waziristan, which is believed to have caused casualties.

 

 

In North Waziristan, a grenade launcher attack was carried out on a military position at the EPI Honeymoon Hotel in Mir Ali area, which reportedly caused casualties, the spokesman said.

 

 

More casualties are believed to have been caused in a mortar attack on a military post in Tajori area of Lakki Marwat district.

 

 

In Tank district, TTP detained two soldiers of the Pakistan Army in Pathan Kot Bazaar during an assault at a checkpost.

 

 

The TTP also shot dead a police officer in Qazi Abad area of South Punjab, the spokesman said.

 

 

An attack was also carried out in Diamer in Gilgit-Baltistan Province, which is believed to have caused casualties.

 

 

In Dera Ismail Khan, a grenade launcher attack on a military post in Paroa is believed to have caused casualties on March 16.

 

 

A day earlier, 5 police officers were killed and several injured in an attack on a check post in Dera Ismail Khan, according to Khorasani.

 

 

In South Waziristan, 2 soldiers were killed and one injured in an attack on a military post in Toi area.

 

 

Two soldiers were injured in a firing incident at a check post on Janki Road in Tank district on March 15.

 

 

In Bannu district, the TTP fighters killed an important member of the so-called ‘Peace Committee’, a militia formed and supported by the Pakistani military.

 

 

“He was allegedly involved in the martyrdoms and arrests of the Mujahideen,” the TTP spokesman said in a statement.

 

 

On March 14, 7 Pakistani soldiers were killed or wounded in an attack on a military post in Hadri area of North Waziristan.

 

 

On the same day, two more soldiers were killed in a grenade launcher attack on a military post in the Jalir area of Mir Ali district.

 

 

One more soldier was killed and another injured in a grenade launcher attack on a military position on the Bypass road in Mir Ali district, he said.

 

 

In Khyber district, a police constable was killed in a targeted manner in the Ash Khel area, the spokesman said.

 

 

One soldier was killed in a sniper attack at a military post in Khaware Narai area of Noi.

 

 

In Dera Ismail Khan, a soldier of paramilitary force Frontier Corps (FC) was killed in a targeted manner in Daraban.

 

 

 

 

Earlier on March 13, a military post located in Laka Sar area of South Waziristan was first targeted with mortar fire, followed by a direct assault in which several personnel were killed and wounded, the TTP spokesman said.

 

 

The attack also caused a fire at the post, resulting in significant financial losses to the enemy, he added.

 

 

In Shaktoi area of South Waziristan, a sniper attack on a post in Dong killed one member of the Army, he said.

 

 

In Lakki Marwat district, 6 police personnel, including the SHO, were killed and one was injured in a landmine attack in Bettani Rasool Khel area, Khorasani said.

 

 

The vehicle was completely destroyed, he said.

 

 

In same district, a member of the so-called ‘Peace Committee’ was killed and two injured in a grenade launcher attack in Tap Takhti Khel area.

 

 

In Badr, an ambush was carried out on a military convoy in Momi Karam, which resulted in the killing and wounding of dozens of personnel, the TTP spokesman said.

 

 

Four military vehicles were partially damaged in the operation, he said.

 

 

On March 13, a police officer was killed in a targeted manner in Daraban area of Dera Ismail Khan, he said.

 

 

One soldier was killed and another injured seriously in a landmine blast in Bara area of Khyber district.

 

 

A policeman was killed in an attack on an outpost in Badan in Wara Mahmond.

 

 

The TTP also said that the Pakistani forces killed some prisoners in a fake encounter in Kohat district after 7 policemen, including a DSP, were eliminated in a TTP attack in Lachi.

 

 

“We want to make it clear to the cowardly enemy that the Mujahideen of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan will surely take revenge for these innocent prisoners from these so-called security institutions,” the spokesman said.

Supreme Court Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr Subject to Moon Sighting; Registry to Remain Open on March 21

New Delhi, Mar 18 (NVI): The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday said that the holiday on account of Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed subject to the sighting of the moon and the official declaration by the Government of India.

According to a circular issued by the court’s Administrative General Branch, if Eid-ul-Fitr falls on March 20 (Friday) or March 22 (Sunday), instead of the scheduled holiday on March 21 (Saturday), the court will observe the holiday on the actual day of the festival.

The circular, however, clarified that the registry of the apex court will remain open on March 21 (Saturday), irrespective of any change in the holiday schedule.

It added that the final decision will be based on the official announcement of the festival as a gazetted holiday by the government through electronic and other media, depending on the moon sighting.(NVI)

People’s Love for Wali Mohammad Itoo Endures, Legacy Lives On: DyCM Surinder Choudhary

Kulgam, Mar 18 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday said the enduring public affection for veteran leader Wali Mohammad Itoo reflects the deep-rooted legacy he left behind, asserting that it continues to inspire people across the region.

Speaking at a function in DH Pora area of Kulgam district on the 32nd death anniversary of the former leader, Choudhary said a large number of people attended the event despite inclement weather, underlining their strong emotional connect with Itoo.

He said the legacy of the late leader is being carried forward by his daughter Sakina Itoo, expressing confidence that she will strive to fulfil the aspirations of the people.

“DH Pora is fortunate to have his daughter leading from the front. We hope she will carry forward his vision and address the aspirations of the people,” he said.

The Deputy Chief Minister also called for strengthening the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leadership, urging people to extend their support to party leaders including Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

Commenting on global developments, Choudhary said war is not a solution to conflicts and stressed the need for dialogue and peaceful engagement, echoing the views of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

He also expressed confidence in the judicial system, saying justice would prevail, and assured that issues related to pending salaries, if any, would be addressed.

Extending greetings on the upcoming festivals of Eid and Navratri, he highlighted the tradition of communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir, saying people in the region continue to celebrate festivals together in a spirit of unity.

The event was attended by several leaders, including Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and Hasnain Masoodi, among others.(NVI)

Two Arrested for Murder in Jammu, Case Solved: Police

Jammu, March 18 (NVI): Police in Jammu have solved a murder case with the arrest of two persons accused of killing a man identified as Balbir Singh, officials said on Wednesday.

The accused have been identified as Ravinder Singh, a resident of Govind Pura in Chatha, and Davinder Singh of Bhor Camp, Ward No. 1, they said.

The arrests were made following a coordinated investigation carried out under the supervision of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu Joginder Singh and SP South Ajay Sharma. The probe was led by SDPO South Kuljit Singh and SHO Satwari Jai Paul Singh.

Police said the swift action by the investigating team led to the successful resolution of the case, adding that further legal proceedings are underway.(NVI)

Search Operation Launched in Doda After Suspicious Movement Reported

Representative pic

Doda Mar 18 (NVI) : A  search operation was launched on Wednesday in the Sarlea area of Gandoh Bhalesa in Doda district after reports of suspicious movement sources said.

According to official sources, a joint team comprising personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Indian Army swiftly moved into the area following inputs about the presence of unknown individuals under suspicious circumstances.

The area, which is known for its rugged terrain and dense forest cover, was immediately cordoned off, and intensive searches were initiated to track down any potential threat.

Officials said that additional reinforcements were deployed to strengthen the operation, while search parties fanned out across nearby forest belts and higher reaches to ensure that no suspicious element escapes the security grid. Surveillance has also been heightened in adjoining areas as a precautionary measure.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to maintain vigilance and prevent any possible infiltration or terrioist movement in the region.

Authorities have urged local residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police unit.—(NVI)

Cloudy Conditions to Return With Light Rain/Snow From March 26

File photo

Srinagar, Mar 18 (NVI): The Meteorological Centre Srinagar on Wednesday forecast erratic weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir till March 20, with intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall expected at many places.

According to the MeT department, a few higher reaches of Chenab Valley and South Kashmir may receive moderate to heavy snowfall during this period. The weather is expected to remain generally dry from March 21 to 25, with a brief spell of rain or snow at isolated places on March 23.

From March 26 to 28, the region is likely to witness generally cloudy conditions with light rain in plains and snowfall over higher reaches at scattered to many places.

The MeT Centre has issued an advisory for travellers, transporters, and the general public, especially those planning to move through higher reaches and important passes, to take precautions and plan accordingly between March 18 and 20.

There is also a possibility of heavy rain or snowfall at isolated places, accompanied by thunder, gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph, and hailstorms in some areas during this period.

Farmers have been advised to suspend all farm operations till March 20 in view of the inclement weather.(NVI)

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