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NC MP Aga Ruhullah to lead protest against reservation policy outside CM’s residence tomorrow

File Photo : MP Aga Ruhullah

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 21 (NVI) National Conference leader and Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah has announced a peaceful protest on December 22 outside the chief minister’s official residence on Gupkar Road, demanding fairness and rationality in Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation policy.

In a statement on X, Ruhullah stated that he had given the government until December 22 to address public grievances regarding the policy. With no resolution in sight, he has reaffirmed his commitment to stand alongside the people at 2 PM to demand accountability.

“The deadline ends tonight, and tomorrow, I will join the people in a peaceful and dignified manner to seek answers from the government,” he stated, urging participants to maintain civility and focus on genuine demands.

The reservation policy, introduced by the Lieutenant Governor-led administration before the assembly elections, increased quotas for reserved categories to 60% while reducing the general category to 40%. This has drawn widespread criticism, with many labeling it discriminatory against the general population.

Ruhullah also called out political opportunists, urging them to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate sincerity by joining the cause. The protest is seen as a significant step in amplifying growing dissatisfaction over the policy in Jammu and Kashmir. (News Vibes of India)

War against drugs : Police attach properties in Budgam district under NDPS Act

NVI Correspondent,

Srinagar, Dec 22 (NVI): In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, the police in Budgam district today attached properties worth Rs 1.28 crore in four separate cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The action sends a strong message to those involved in the illegal drug trade, emphasizing that such activities will not be tolerated.

A police spokesman stated that in the first case, the Budgam police attached a residential house and vehicles, including a Mahindra Scorpio, Mini Truck, and an Ashoka Leyland truck, worth Rs 45.5 lakh. These properties belong to Muhammad Yaseen Dar, a resident of Sholipora Budgam, who is involved in two separate cases registered under the NDPS Act in Police Stations Budgam and Khansahib.

In a second operation, the Chadoora police attached two land parcels—9 Malras (Khasra No. 1678) and 7 ½ Malras (Khasra No. 1678)—located in Moza Nowgam, Srinagar, along with a residential house at Nowgam, valued at Rs 12.63.7 lakh. These assets belong to Muhammad Ayoub Beigh of Nowhar Chadoora, who is linked to a case registered under the NDPS Act by Police Station Chadoora.

Furthermore, in a separate operation, the Magam police attached a two-wheeler Scooty (registration No. JK05G-6071) and a double-storied residential house in Badran Magam, worth Rs 18.84 lakh, belonging to Irfan Ahmad Lone alias Raja and Gh Mohammad Lone, both residents of Badran Magam. The two are involved in a case under the NDPS Act and related charges in Police Station Magam.

The police’s decision to attach these properties highlights their firm commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks by targeting assets acquired through proceeds from narco-smuggling. “Budgam Police is determined to eradicate the drug menace and will continue to take stern action against those involved in drug trafficking,” the spokesperson stated.

Budgam Police have also urged the public to report any information related to drug trafficking and illegal activities. Assuring confidentiality, they called for that cooperation from citizens is crucial in creating a drug-free society.( News Vibes of India)

CM Omar stays in Srinagar to oversee crisis management amid severe cold wave

File Photo: CM Omar Abdullah

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 22 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has canceled all his scheduled programs in Jammu due to the ongoing cold wave in Kashmir.

He announced that he would remain in Srinagar for the next two weeks to directly monitor the functioning of essential services, particularly the power and water supply departments, which are severely affected by the harsh winter conditions.

Omar took to social media, stating, “In light of the severe cold spell and the resultant difficulties with water and electricity supply, I have decided to cancel my upcoming programs in Jammu and remain stationed in Srinagar for the next week to personally oversee the Power department and other critical services.”

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused to the organizers of his canceled programs, he said that this decision was necessary given the situation. “I regret the inconvenience this will cause, but this is the right course of action under the current circumstances. I assure those affected that I will make it up to them,” he added.

The chief minister, currently returning from Jaisalmer, is expected to arrive in Srinagar by tomorrow morning to assess and address the ongoing crisis. Kashmir has entered the severe cold phase of Chilla-e-Kalan, which began on Saturday, exacerbating the difficulties faced by residents due to freezing temperatures and disruptions in essential services. (News Vibes of India)

Frozen pipes lead to water crisis in Srinagar, other parts of Kashmir

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 22( NVI): The ongoing cold wave in Kashmir has triggered a severe water crisis in several areas of Srinagar and other parts of the Valley with many water supply pipes freezing due to sub-zero temperatures.

Local residents have reported a significant shortage of water for daily needs with some areas going without proper water supply for days.

“It’s been days since we last received water. The pipes are frozen and the authorities have not provided any solutions yet,” said Ali Muhammad, a resident of Srinagar’s old city. “We have to rely on public taps or purchase water from outside, which is becoming increasingly difficult.”

In areas like Batamaloo, Rainawari and parts of the city outskirts, locals have faced severe inconvenience, with taps running dry and water tankers failing to meet demand. “We are forced to use small containers to fetch water from distant sources. It’s a real struggle in these freezing temperatures,” added Aisha Begum, a resident of Batamaloo.

Authorities have assured residents that efforts are underway to thaw frozen pipes and restore normal water supply. “We are fully aware of the situation and teams are working round the clock to restore water supply in affected areas,” said a senior official from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department.

However, the ongoing cold snap and the lack of proper infrastructure to deal with such extreme weather conditions have left many residents frustrated, as they continue to wait for relief.( News Vibes of India)

Police arrest two persons with arms, ammunition in Baramulla district

Representative picture

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 22 (NVI):Jammu and Kashmir Police today detained two suspected persons and recovered arms ammunition from their possession in Sopore area of Baramulla district.

A police spokesman said that on December 21, at around 6:30 pm in a joint naka laid by Sopore Police, 32 RR and CRPF 92 Bn in the jurisdiction of Police Station Dangiwacha, two suspected persons namely Rashid Ahmad Bhat S/O Ghulam Mohammad Bhat and Sajed Ismail Haru S/O Mohammad Ismail Haru both the residents of Arwani Bijbehara were apprehended.

“During their personal search arms ammunition, mobile phones etc were recovered from their possession”, he said.

In this regard case FIR No. 80/24 under relevant sections of law registered in Police station Dangiwacha and investigation taken up (News Vibes of India)

No respite from Cold: Shopian freezes at -8.1°C, Srinagar at -4.6°C as Chilai-e-Kalan bites hard

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 22 (NVI)
The bone-chilling cold wave continues to grip the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh plunging temperatures to freezing levels and disrupting the normal life.

Shopian emerged as the coldest place in the Kashmir Valley, recording a staggering -8.1°C, while Anantnag and Kulgam followed at -6.6°C and -5.8°C, respectively. The popular tourist destinations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam registered -4.6°C and -4.9°C, adding to the frosty charm but also causing hardships for locals and tourists. Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded -4.6°C, intensifying the chill, while Sonamarg saw temperatures drop to -7.0°C.

Frozen water bodies and icy roads have disrupted transportation and limited access to essential supplies, significantly impacting daily life in the Valley.

In contrast to the Valley’s deep freeze, the Jammu region experienced a mix of chilly and relatively mild weather. Padder in Kishtwar district recorded -5.7°C, while Banihal dipped to -1.3°C. Jammu city remained comparatively warmer at 6.5°C, and Ramban recorded the highest minimum temperature in the region at 8.1°C. Popular destinations like Katra saw milder conditions, with a minimum of 7.2°C.

Ladakh recorded the lowest temperatures, with Kargil registering a frigid -8.8°C and Leh at -7.4°C. While the Drass sector’s data remains unavailable, it is presumed to be even colder, given its reputation as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth.

The severe cold has led to frozen water pipelines, power outages in remote areas, and slippery roads, further hampering transportation. The famous Dal Lake in Srinagar has begun to freeze along its edges, while agricultural activities remain on hold across the region. The demand for heating appliances, firewood, and warm clothing has surged as residents brace for worsening conditions.

Despite the challenges, the snow-covered landscapes of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg continue to attract tourists, eager to experience the Valley’s winter wonderland. However, authorities have advised caution due to icy roads and the risk of avalanches in higher altitudes.

The Meteorological Department Srinagar has predicted that the cold wave will persist with no significant rise in temperatures expected in the coming days. Residents have been urged to stay indoors during peak cold hours and take measures to insulate water pipelines to prevent freezing.

With “Chilai-e-Kalan,” the harshest 40-day winter period, tightening its grip, the people of Kashmir and Ladakh are preparing for even more challenging days ahead.(News Vibes of India)

Army celebrates International Pheran Day with heartwarming distribution drive in Kashmir’s border areas

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 21(NVI): In a gesture of compassion and cultural celebration, the Army distributed traditional Pherans to underprivileged families in remote villages of Kashmir on the occasion of International Pheran Day, observed on December 21.

This initiative, aimed at bringing warmth to those struggling with the biting cold of Chillai Kalan, was particularly impactful for families living near the Line of Control (LoC).

The Pheran, an iconic symbol of Kashmiri identity and resilience, provided much-needed relief as temperatures plummeted to sub-zero levels across the valley. The distribution, which covered some of the most isolated regions, also involved local volunteers who assisted in identifying the families most in need.

Since its inception in 2021, International Pheran Day has become a cultural event in Kashmir, where locals and tourists gather to celebrate the significance of the attire. This year, the event saw fashion shows and cultural exhibitions, drawing attention to the tradition of the Pheran as a symbol of Kashmiri heritage.

Speaking about the initiative, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) Defence in Srinagar remarked, “This distribution drive is more than just about providing warmth; it’s about preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. The Army’s efforts are aimed at ensuring that the people, especially in border areas, feel supported and valued, especially during such a challenging time of the year.”

The Army’s distribution drive has been widely appreciated by locals, with many acknowledging the positive impact of the initiative, which blends security, stability, and a deep sense of community welfare. As the valley faces one of the coldest winters, the smiles of children and elders receiving the Pherans reflect the warmth of this generous act. (News Vibes of India)

NIA charges two in Hizb-ul-Mujahideen arms, explosives case in Baramulla

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 21(NVI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against two individuals involved in an arms and explosives seizure case linked to the banned terror outfit Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM).

The chargesheet, submitted to the NIA Special Court in Jammu, names Waheed Ul Zahoor, the driver of the vehicle carrying the contraband and Mubashir Maqbool Mir, who were allegedly in contact with HM handlers based in Pakistan.

The case stems from an operation on June 30, 2024, when security forces intercepted a vehicle at a checkpoint in Machipora, Rashidabad, Baramulla. Despite an attempt to evade, the vehicle was stopped, leading to the recovery of explosives, arms, and other incriminating materials.

Investigations revealed that Waheed was an overground worker (OGW) for HM, and searches at his residence in Mujgung, Srinagar, uncovered further evidence. Mubashir, identified as a conspirator, was found to be providing financial support and coordinating operations with HM. He was later apprehended.

The NIA stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and determine the intended recipients of the seized materials. (News Vibes of India)

No GST Hike on Kashmiri Shawls: CM Omar Abdullah reassures Artisans

File Photo : CM Omar Abdullah

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 21 (NVI): Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on today dispelled fears of a proposed GST hike on Kashmiri shawls, a hallmark of the J&K’s handicraft industry, affirming that proactive measures had been taken to block such a move.

Speaking to reporters in Jaisalmer after attending pre-budget discussions, Abdullah said, “There was widespread speculation about a GST hike on shawls, and we came prepared to prevent it. Thankfully, it wasn’t taken up, and we will ensure that such proposals are not entertained in the future.”

The Kashmiri shawl industry, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship, especially in Pashmina, has been facing challenges such as rising production costs, dwindling demand, and competition from machine-made alternatives. A GST hike would have added further pressure, threatening the livelihoods of artisans who depend on this traditional craft.

Abdullah highlighted the critical role of shawls in Kashmir’s economy and cultural identity. “This industry is not just about economics; it represents the soul of our heritage. Protecting it is imperative to ensure the artisans who sustain this legacy are supported,” he said.

He also stressed the need for comprehensive policies to preserve and promote Kashmir’s handicrafts. As the industry grapples with shifting market dynamics and limited government intervention, Abdullah’s reassurances bring hope to those working tirelessly to keep this centuries-old tradition alive.(News Vibes of India)

Centre approves Rs 85 Cr for J&K Universities, Colleges under PM-USHA

NVI Correspondent,

Jammu, Dec 21 (NVI): The Union Ministry of Education has sanctioned nine projects worth Rs 85 crore for higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).

The decision, announced during the third Project Approval Board (PAB) meeting on December 20, reflects the Centre’s commitment to transforming higher education infrastructure in the region.

Among the projects, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University in Rajouri will receive Rs20 crore to strengthen its infrastructure. Additionally, five new girls’ hostels will be constructed in Bandipora, Baramulla, Kulgam, Ramban, and Udhampur, with Rs 10 crore allocated for each, promoting gender equity in education. Three Government Degree Colleges in Bandipora, Sogam Kupwara, and Nowshera will each receive Rs 5 crore for infrastructure development.

PM-USHA, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to bridge gaps in the higher education sector through infrastructure upgrades, curriculum reforms, and improved employability. These projects focus on ensuring equitable access to quality education, particularly for underrepresented groups, fostering inclusivity, and addressing regional disparities.

Earlier this year, the Higher Education Department of Jammu & Kashmir proposed funding for 47 institutions at an estimated cost of Rs 585 crore. With these recent approvals, funding under PM-USHA for J&K has reached Rs 155 crore, benefiting 18 institutions, including Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and several colleges.

The sanctioned projects include initiatives to enhance gender inclusion, improve educational quality, and support multidisciplinary learning, a core tenet of NEP 2020. By creating innovative and inclusive educational environments, these efforts aim to empower students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

These developments mark a significant step forward in addressing J&K’s higher education challenges, ensuring the region’s institutions are well-equipped to contribute to national progress and global competitiveness.( News Vibes of India)

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