Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Home Blog Page 40

Kargil war hero Col Sonam Wangchuk Passes Away
Col Wangchuk played key role in liberating Turtuk in Ladakh during the war with Pakistan

1971 war hero Col Sonam Wangchuk Passes Away
Col Sonam Wangchuk

Srinagar, Apr 10 (NVI): Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, the legendary Indian Army officer who played a pivotal role in liberating Turtuk in Ladakh during the Kargil war, has passed away, marking the end of an era of unparalleled courage and service.

A towering figure in India’s military history, Col Wangchuk was among the rare few officers to be honoured twice with the prestigious Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) for acts of exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy.

His fearless leadership and indomitable spirit during the India-Pakistan war remain etched in the annals of the nation’s defence legacy.

The capture of Batalik under his command as a Major of the Ladakh Scouts is regarded as one of the most significant strategic gains for India, reshaping the region’s geography and strengthening national security along the northern frontiers.

His demise has sent a wave of grief across Ladakh and the entire country, with tributes pouring in from military circles, veterans, and citizens alike, remembering him as a symbol of valour, patriotism, and selfless service.

India salutes one of its bravest sons.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Army Chief General Dwivedi and several others expressed grief over his demise and hailed him for his exceptional valour.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Colonel Sonam Wangchuk. He was a highly decorated officer of the Indian Army, renowned for his gallantry, resolute leadership and unwavering commitment to duty.

“A proud son of #Ladakh, he exemplified the spirit of the region- resilient, steadfast and deeply rooted in service to the Nation, while standing as a symbol of India’s unity in diversity,” Rajnath Singh said in his message.

“His courageous actions of leading by personal example during #OperationVijay inspired his men under the most demanding conditions in high-altitude. His life remains a testament to courage, sacrifice and national integration and his legacy will continue to inspire coming generations,” Singh added. (NVI)

“Project Him Sarovar Launched: Ladakh Takes Giant Leap Towards Water Security”

Ladakh, Apr 10 (NVI) : Ladak on Friday marked a major milestone in its journey towards water security with the launch of Project Him Sarovar, an ambitious initiative aimed at harvesting snow and conserving glacial melt through the creation of water storage bodies across the region.

The project commenced with the simultaneous excavation of 50 water bodies in Leh and Kargil districts, undertaken with the support of the Indian Army, ITBP, and BRO. Each structure, measuring 40×30 meters and 2 meters deep, is designed to capture snowmelt and rainwater that otherwise goes to waste every year.

Officials said the initiative will provide a reliable and sustainable source of water for irrigation, especially crucial in the cold desert terrain of Ladakh where water scarcity remains a persistent challenge.

Describing it as a “historic step,” authorities noted that the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of restoring 2.6 crore hectares of degraded land by 2030.

The water bodies are based on scientifically designed yet traditional water conservation techniques, making them cost-effective and suitable for Ladakh’s unique climatic conditions.

In its first phase, the project has already covered nearly 25 percent of the villages in Ladakh. Officials aim to expand its reach to at least 100 villages within a year through coordinated efforts.

Authorities expressed confidence that Project Him Sarovar will emerge as a sustainable model of water management, helping secure Ladakh’s ecological and agricultural future.(NVI)

“Shocked to See Suspended Officers Still Working”: Dy CM Choudhary Flags Illegal Mining, Orders Probe

File Photo: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary

Jammu, Apr 10 (NVI): Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday expressed shock over the presence of previously suspended or transferred officers still working at the Directorate of Mining office in Jammu, and ordered a probe into the matter.

Speaking to reporters, the Deputy Chief Minister said he found officers, who had earlier been suspended or shifted to Kashmir over serious allegations, continuing to work at the same office.

“I was shocked to see officers suspended by me still working at the Director Mining office Jammu. These employees were either suspended or transferred on serious allegations, but I found them working here,” he said.

Choudhary further stated that during his surprise visit, both the Director and Joint Director were absent. “I was informed that the Chief Secretary had called a meeting. I will visit the Secretariat and take up the issue,” he added.

Acknowledging the issue of illegal mining, the Deputy Chief Minister admitted that certain officers and departmental loopholes were contributing to the problem.

“I admit that illegal mining is going on due to some officers and there are weaknesses in the department,” he said, adding that such activities appeared to be supported from within.

“It seems illegal mining is being encouraged and patronized from the Director Mining office Jammu,” he alleged.

Announcing action, Choudhary said that a detailed inquiry would be initiated into the functioning of the department and the continued presence of such officers.

He also highlighted administrative challenges, stating that functioning as a Union Territory creates gaps that some officials exploit. “Some officers misuse this and indulge in wrongdoing, which defames the government,” he said.

Describing the situation at the office, he remarked that it had “become like a fish market and a source of illegal mining.” (NVI)

Spy network linked to Pakistani intelligence agency busted
Eleven suspects arrested by police in Delhi and Punjab; CCTVs were used to send messages

Spy network linked to Pakistani intelligence agency busted
Suspects of ISI-linked spy racket in police custody

New Delhi, Apr 10: A spy network, run by Pakistan’s notorious intelligence agency ISI, has been busted by the Delhi Police which has arrested 11 people in this connection.

The network had the involvement of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to initial probe, the spying was done through the CCTV cameras which the suspects had placed near sensitive defence and security installations in various parts of the country.

These devices broadcast live feeds to Pakistani handlers through mobile software.

The accused were arrested during a crackdown at various places in Delhi and Punjab.

While 6 were arrested in Delhi, 5 were held in Punjab.

The accused were in direct contact with handlers based in Pakistan through encrypted messaging apps, the police said.

They were allegedly receiving instructions to carry out spying and other activities that could threaten national security.

In Delhi, nine solar-powered CCTV units placed near sensitive defence and security sites were seized, police said.

Besides, four handguns — three imported PX5 weapons and one local pistol – were also recovered along with 24 live rounds, the police said.

 

Investigators said the module was financed through UPI transfers, partially funded by illicit weapons trafficking.

The suspects arrested in Punjab were tasked with scouting sensitive Army and paramilitary bases, providing photos and footage to their overseas handlers, the investigators said.

 

The group had deployed CCTV cameras at various sites across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan to track high-security zones, they said.

 

Investigations indicated that this network also worked on radicalising and drafting youths for terrorism, spying, and arms smuggling.

 

The cell was plotting terrorist strikes, such as grenade hits on security facilities, the investigators said.

 

Investigations continue to locate remaining network members and reveal the total scope of this conspiracy.

 

A few days back, a similar network was unearthed in Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh on the outskirts of Delhi. (NVI)

IED-like Material Found in Sunderbani Rajouri

Jammu, Apr 10 (NVI): An IED-like material was found on Friday afternoon near Government Degree College Thandapani in Sunderbani area of Rajouri district, officials said.

They said that at around 1515 hours, locals spotted a suspicious box containing two grenades along NHW-144A at Thandapani, nearly 200 meters from the college.

The locals immediately informed Police Station Sunderbani, following which police and other agencies rushed to the spot.

Further details are awaited.(NVI)

Farooq Abdullah Hopes War Remains Ended, Urges Global

Farooq Abdullah
File Photo: Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar ar, Apr 10 (NVI): National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday welcomed the de-escalation of tensions in West Asia and expressed hope that the cessation of hostilities would lead to lasting peace across the world.

Speaking to reporters here, Abdullah said he was relieved that the conflict had stopped and hoped it would not resume. “Thank God the war has stopped. I hope it remains stopped in the future as well and peace prevails in the world,” he said.

Reacting to discussions around Pakistan’s mediation efforts and suggestions of a Nobel Prize, the former chief minister said humanitarian service should not be driven by the desire for awards.

“One works for humanity, not for a Nobel Prize. Those who demand a Nobel Prize are unfortunate. The real prize is serving the cause of humanity,” he said.

Highlighting the human cost of conflicts, Abdullah stressed the need to prioritise peace and welfare of people. “It is humanity that is suffering and it is humanity that must be saved,” he added.(NVI)

Seized Arms, Ammunition Destroyed in Jammu’s Arnia Area

Jammu, Apr 10 (NVI): Police on Friday carried out the disposal of seized arms and ammunition in connection with various FIRs registered at Police Station Arnia in Jammu district.

Officials that a total of 38 hand grenades, including 8 SF grenades and 2 UBGL grenades, were destroyed during the operation. Besides, 11 detonators (8 non-electric and 3 electric), 9 time pencils, and around 17 kilograms of RDX were also safely disposed of.

They said the disposal process was conducted at Firing Butt Nagrota in strict adherence to the prescribed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring complete safety and compliance with guidelines.

The operation was carried out under the overall supervision of SSP Jammu and SP Headquarters Jammu, in the presence of SDPO R.S. Pura and SHO Arnia, who monitored the process to ensure transparency and procedural correctness.

Police said the exercise reflects their continued commitment to maintaining public safety and handling hazardous materials in a secure manner.(NVI)

Amarnath Yatra 2026 Registration from April 15 Across 554 Bank Branches

Holy Cave Shri Amarnath Ji

Srinagar, Apr 10 (NVI): The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board has announced that registration for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026 will commence from April 15 through 554 designated bank branches across the country.

Guidelines issued by the Board the registration process will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis with fixed daily quotas for both Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

Officials said that only pilgrims aged between 13 and 70 years will be eligible, while women with more than six weeks of pregnancy will not be permitted to undertake the yatra, even if they possess the mandatory health certificate.

The registration will be carried out through Aadhaar-based biometric eKYC authentication, with permits generated online via the official portal. In case of technical issues, a fallback provision for manual data entry with webcam-based photo capture has also been kept.

Pilgrims will be required to submit a valid Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC), issued on or after April 8, 2026, by an authorised doctor or medical institution, along with a fee of ₹150 per permit.

The designated bank branches will verify the authenticity of the health certificate before issuing the system-generated permit, which will specify the selected route and date of travel.

As per the procedure, registration for a particular date will close seven days in advance. Authorities have also directed banks to set up help desks, train staff and ensure smooth facilitation of the registration process.

The Shrine Board has advised pilgrims to provide accurate Aadhaar and mobile details and follow all prescribed guidelines to ensure a hassle-free pilgrimage. (NVI)

Army Commander Reviews Counter-Terror Grid in South Kashmir, Calls for Heightened Vigilance

Srinagar, Apr 9 (NVI): Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday reviewed the counter-terrorism grid in South Kashmir, assessing the prevailing security situation and operational preparedness of forces deployed in the region.

During the visit, he was briefed on ongoing operations and the overall security landscape. Emphasising the need for a robust approach, the Army Commander stressed synergy, adaptability, precision, and sustained vigilance as crucial elements for effective intelligence-based operations and swift response to emerging threats.

He also interacted with troops on the ground, lauding their dedication, high morale, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.

The review focused on improving operational efficiency and enhancing coordination among units engaged in counter-terrorism efforts. Lt Gen Sharma underscored the growing importance of intelligence and technology in anticipating threats and maintaining a proactive security posture.

The visit reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining high readiness levels and ensuring the safety and security of civilians in South Kashmir, officials said.(NVI)

CS Reviews Fuel, LPG Stocks in J&K; Orders Vigilance Against Hoarding

Jammu, Apr 9 (NVI): Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday reviewed the availability and distribution of petrol, diesel and LPG across Jammu and Kashmir, directing authorities to maintain strict vigil against hoarding and ensure uninterrupted supply amid global uncertainties.

Chairing a high-level meeting with senior officials and district administrations, Dulloo said the Union Territory has adequate reserves of essential commodities, with additional stocks in transit to further strengthen supply buffers in view of the evolving situation in West Asia.

He stressed the need for intensified monitoring, strict inspections and awareness campaigns to curb black marketing, overpricing and hoarding of fuel, LPG, fertilizers and food grains. The Chief Secretary also reviewed public grievances and their disposal, calling for faster redressal and expediting e-KYC of consumers.

Officials informed the meeting that both Jammu and Kashmir divisions are maintaining stable stock positions of petrol, diesel and LPG, with sufficient reserve cover to meet demand. Measures have also been put in place to ensure smooth supply to commercial and industrial sectors, as well as to remote and far-flung areas.

The administration is closely monitoring supply chains to prevent disruptions to essential services, tourism and industrial activities. Dulloo directed district authorities to ensure seamless last-mile delivery and warned against any attempt to exploit the situation for profiteering.

He reassured the public that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the Union Territory and urged people not to panic, asserting that existing reserves and incoming supplies are sufficient to maintain normalcy.

1...394041...1,613Page 40 of 1,613

MUST READ