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Infamous drug peddler arrested, booked under PIT-NDPS Act in Srinagar

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 09(NVI): Police today arrested a notorious drug peddler, Adil Rashid Bhat, also known as “Raj Tanker,” alias “Mama,” a resident of Bemina, Srinagar.

Police said that Bhat has been detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PIT-NDPSA) following a sustained manhunt.

Adil Rashid Bhat has a history of involvement in multiple drug-related cases, including: FIR No. 08/2021 under Sections 8/22 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Shergari.

Police said that there is FIR No. 119/2022 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Baramulla against Bhat besides, FIR No. 30/2023 under Sections 8/22 and 27 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Batamaloo.

Police said that given his repeated involvement in the sale and distribution of narcotics through an illegal network targeting youth, Srinagar Police prepared a detailed dossier, which led to the issuance of detention orders by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir.

Bhat had been evading arrest by fleeing to Jammu and later Delhi. However, after relentless efforts by the police, he was finally apprehended on December 6, 2024, by Batamaloo Police Station and has since been lodged in Central Jail Srinagar to serve his detention. (News Vibes of India)

ACB Srinagar marks International Anti-Corruption Day with Youth-focused events across Kashmir

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 9 (NVI): The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Srinagar observed International Anti-Corruption Day with a series of impactful events across Srinagar, Ganderbal and Budgam districts with special focus on involving youth.

Under the theme “Uniting the Youth Against Corruption, Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” the celebrations stressed on empowering youth to lead the charge against corruption and promote a culture of accountability and integrity.

The central event was held at SP College, Srinagar, where SSP ACB Srinagar, Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Wani, presided over the function.

The event was attended by the college principal, Dr. Mohd Farooq Mir, faculty members and a large group of students. Additional programs were organized at six other locations, including Central University of Kashmir in Ganderbal and Government Degree Colleges in Khansahab, Beerwah, Ganderbal, and Women’s College, Srinagar.

The events featured discussions by ACB officers and faculty members on the significance of the day and the crucial role youth play in building a corruption-free society. A debate competition on the theme was also held, with active participation from students and guest speakers. Outstanding participants were recognized with commendation certificates and mementos, encouraging further engagement.

The programs concluded with votes of thanks exchanged between ACB officers and institutional heads, highlighting a shared commitment to fostering integrity and transparency. The celebrations successfully provided a platform to inspire the next generation to champion the cause of ethical governance. (News Vibes of India)

Five arrested in major anti-drug trafficking operation along LoC in Poonch

Representational Image

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 09 (NVI): In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district detained five individuals during a targeted operation along the Line of Control (LoC) on today.

The operation, launched in response to credible intelligence inputs, aimed to disrupt smuggling activities in the forward areas.

Police teams conducted extensive searches in several locations, including Khari, Ajote, Degwar, Purani Poonch, and Jernally Mohalla.

Police sources said during the operation, five suspects were apprehended and subsequently taken into custody for interrogation.

Authorities are now working to uncover the extent of their involvement in drug trafficking and to identify any links to cross-border smuggling networks.

Preliminary investigations suggest that these individuals may be part of a larger syndicate using the porous LoC to facilitate the illegal movement of narcotics.

Officials are exploring whether these activities are connected to organized cross-border networks aimed at destabilizing the region through the illicit drug trade

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensifying surveillance and taking strict action against those involved in such illegal activities.

The successful operation underscores the government’s resolve to secure border regions and dismantle smuggling networks that exploit the region’s challenging terrain for illicit activities. Further investigations are ongoing and additional arrests are expected as the probe widens(News Vibes of India)

IIT-Guwahati researchers develop new method to make cleaner biofuels from Methane, CO2

IIT-G researchers Prof. Subasish Das and Dr. Krishna Kalyani Sahoo

GUWAHATI, Dec 9 (NVI): Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) researchers have claimed to have developed an advanced biological method to convert methane and carbon dioxide into cleaner biofuels using methanotrophic bacteria.

This innovative approach represents a significant leap toward sustainable energy solutions and climate change mitigation, said a press statement issued by the Institute.

The research, co-authored by Prof. Debasish Das and Dr. Krishna Kalyani Sahoo, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, has been published in Fuel, a leading journal by Elsevier.

The study addresses two pressing global challenges: the harmful environmental impact of greenhouse gases and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves.

Methane, a greenhouse gas that is 27-30 times more potent than carbon dioxide, is a significant contributor to global warming.

While turning methane and carbon dioxide into liquid fuels can reduce emissions and provide renewable energy, existing chemical methods are energy-intensive, expensive, and produce toxic by-products, limiting their scalability.

IIT Guwahati team has developed a fully biological process that uses Methylosinus trichosporium, a type of methanotrophic bacteria, to convert methane and carbon dioxide into bio-methanol under mild operating conditions.

Unlike traditional chemical methods, this process eliminates the need for expensive catalysts, avoids toxic by-products, and operates in a more energy-efficient manner.

The innovative two-stage process involves:

  1. Capturing methane to generate bacteria-based biomass.
  2. Utilising the biomass to convert carbon dioxide into methanol.

The team further optimised the process using advanced engineering techniques to improve gas solubility, significantly enhancing methanol yields.

The bio-methanol produced was blended with diesel (5-20% ratios) and tested in a four-stroke diesel engine. Key results include:

  • Emission Reductions: Up to 87% reduction in carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulphide, and smoke emissions.
  • Improved Efficiency: Diesel-methanol blends outperformed pure diesel in fuel consumption, energy efficiency, and engine performance, while maintaining similar mechanical efficiency.

Speaking about the research, Prof. Debasish Das, Dept. of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, said, “This research is a breakthrough as it demonstrates that bio-methanol, derived from bacteria feeding on methane and carbon dioxide, can be a viable alternative to fossil fuels.

“Unlike conventional biofuels that rely on crops and create competition with food production, our method uses greenhouse gases, avoiding the ‘food vs. fuel’ issue.

“It is an environmentally and economically viable solution, utilising inexpensive resources while contributing to emissions reduction.”

The biological conversion of methane and carbon dioxide into bio-methanol not only provides a cleaner fuel alternative but also has industrial applications as a precursor for producing chemicals like formaldehyde and acetic acid.

This process offers immense potential to decarbonise critical industries, including oil and gas, refineries, and chemical manufacturing, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

This innovation aligns with global sustainability goals, showcasing IIT Guwahati’s commitment to fostering research that addresses critical environmental challenges while advancing clean energy solutions.

With the potential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimise greenhouse gas emissions, this advancement represents a significant stride toward a cleaner and greener future. (NVI)

Radisson opens hotel in Thrissur in Kerala

New Radisson Hotel in Thrissur in Kerala opened today

New Delhi, Dec 9 (NVI) The Radisson Hotel Group has opened Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Thrissur East Fort in Kerala.

Marking the debut of the ‘Park Inn & Suites by Radisson’ brand, the hotel is located at a distance of just 2.5 kms from Thrissur Railway Station and 49 kms away from the Cochin International Airport.

The hotel comprises 66 well-appointed, elegantly-designed rooms, 2 banquet halls, and 1 conference hall, symbolizing the brand’s ethos of ‘inviting modern comfort’, the company said in a statement.

It has 58 executive rooms and 8 suite rooms.

The hotel offers all amenities and conveniences for a comfortable stay including high-speed internet, smart LED TV, swimming pool, all day dining restaurant, and a fitness center, according to the statement.

This opening is part of Radisson Hotel Group’s master franchise partnership with Treebo Hospitality Ventures (THV), which aims to set up 150 such hotels under the ‘Park Inn & Suites by Radisson’ brand over 10 years.

This mid-market brand focuses on tier 2 to tier 5 cities and quick-to-launch properties having 50-75 keys.

It is designed to cater to the large and growing base of middle-income travellers looking for affordable, high-quality accommodation.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Thrissur East Fort, our first operational hotel under the ‘Park Inn & Suites by Radisson’ brand in India. This milestone highlights our commitment to meeting the growing demand for quality hospitality in India’s Tier 2 and 3 cities,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

“This opening aligns with our five-year expansion strategy for South Asia, advancing our vision to make high-quality hospitality accessible in emerging markets. We deeply value the trust of our partner, Treebo, and are dedicated to delivering exceptional value to them while ensuring a superior experience for our guests,” he added.

“As a hospitality company focused on serving the value-conscious segment in India, we are delighted to welcome Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Thrissur East Fort in our operating portfolio,” said Sidharth Gupta, Co-founder & CEO, Treebo Hospitality Ventures.

“This hotel offers a powerful value proposition to travellers with world-class amenities and comfort at affordable prices. This launch is the first one under our partnership with Radisson Hotel Group for growing the Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand across the country. We couldn’t have asked for a better debut for this partnership. We are grateful for the trust and support offered by our partners, Jos Alukkas Group,” he said.

Varghese Alukka, Managing Director of Jos Alukkas Group, the owners of the property, said, “We are honoured to partner with two reputed hospitality groups in the form of Radisson Hotel Group and Treebo Hospitality Ventures. Together, we hope to make this hotel a resounding success.”

Radisson Hotel Group commands a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 194 hotels in operation and development.

It continues to be the largest hotel operator in a tier-1 market like Delhi NCR, while over 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets.

With hotels in over 114 destinations across India, Radisson Hotel Group has properties located within a 4-hour drive of each other.

The Group has successfully introduced various brands to the growing Indian market, including Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats. (NVI)

PDP leaders felicitated in Srinagar Sartaj Madni says Statehood a non issue, elected Govt must fight for Special Status

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 09(NVI): The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held a grand felicitation ceremony at its party headquarters in Srinagar today to honor its newly appointed Vice President, Muhammad Sartaj Madni, Chairman of the Parliamentary Board Abdul Rehman Veeri and Chairman of the Election Board Gh Nabi Lone Hanjura.

The event saw party members and leaders come together to strengthen their resolve toward addressing key political and public concerns in Jammu and Kashmir.

In his address, Sartaj Madni underscored the need for shifting focus from the restoration of statehood, which he termed a “non-issue,” to the more significant demand of reclaiming Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Articles 370 and 35A, which were abrogated in 2019.

He said that only an elected government could meaningfully take up this cause and fight for the constitutional rights of the region’s people.

Madni also criticized the current administration for its failure to deliver on key promises, particularly the assurance of providing 200 units of free electricity to residents. “The government must come clean on its commitments. Where is the free electricity they promised?” he questioned, highlighting the rising discontent among the public over unfulfilled pledges and governance lapses.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Board Abdul Rehman Veeri and Election Board Chairman Gh Nabi Lone Hanjura also addressed the gathering, reaffirming the PDP’s dedication to addressing political challenges and ensuring public welfare. They reiterated the party’s stand on advocating for the region’s political and economic rights and stressed on the importance of unity within the party to achieve these goals.

The felicitation program symbolized the PDP’s commitment to strengthening its leadership and refocusing its efforts on pressing issues affecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir.(News Vibes of India)

Balochistan: BLA claims to have killed 4 Pakistani soldiers, injured 6 in an attack

Fighters of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) at some undisclosed location. File Pic

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Dec 9 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed to have killed 4 Pakistani Army personnel and injured 6 in an an attack on a military post in Dukki area of Balochistan.

The BLA fighters attacked the post from all sides, firing rockets and grenades from launchers.

“Four occupying Pakistani army personnel were eliminated and at least 6 were wounded in the attack,” BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said about the operation carried out on the intervening night of December 6-7.

“Two of the eliminated personnel have been identified as Sepoy Abu Sufyan, a resident of Bahawalpur and Sepoy Ehsanullah, a resident of Rahim Yar Khan,” he said.

After the attack, the BLA fighters reached their safe location as planned, while the bewildered enemy forces opened indiscriminate fire and fired mortar shells in various directions, the spokesman said. (NVI)

TTP hails conquest of Syria by mujahideen, hopes to replicate it in Pakistan

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

Peshawar, Dec 9 (NVI) Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has hailed the conquest of Syria by the ‘mujahideen’ Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and expressed hope that the same would be replicated in Pakistan soon by it (Pakistan Taliban).

The TTP, which is engaged in an all-out war against the Pakistani military with an objective of ushering in Sharia, said that the victory achieved by the HTS demonstrates that “one cannot get one’s right by demonstrations and slogans alone, but for this, it is necessary to make numerous sacrifices.”

The HTS, which had been fighting against the Syrian government for 11 years, yesterday captured power in the country after the ruler Bashar Al-Assad fled as thousands of armed rebels advanced unchallenged towards the capital Damascus.

“We, the Islamic Ummah especially, congratulate the mujahideen and believers of Syria for the victory of the blessed land of Syria, which was achieved as a result of their unparalleled sacrifices,” said TTP in a statement issued by its spokesman Muhammad Khurasani to NVI.

“The victory of Syria is the result of the unforgettable sacrifices and patience that the oppressed Muslims of Syria have been waiting for during the last sixty years,” it said.

The TTP spokesman said the “zeal, sacrifices, bravery and determination” shown by the HTS have “taught the world how to fight for the truth”.

“On this occasion, we hope that the conqueror Mujahideen (Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other jihadist groups) will keep alive the Sunnah of the Prophet’s victory in Makkah and adopt an attitude of forgiveness and tolerance,” he said.

“Also, the Syrian people should put an end to the atrocities and sufferings that they have endured for the past sixty years, and try to work to provide all kinds of facilities to the people,” the spokesman said.

“This victory has taught a lesson to all the oppressed nations, especially the Muslims of Pakistan, that one cannot get one’s right by demonstrations and slogans alone, but for this, it is necessary to make numerous sacrifices,” he said.

“Alhamdulillah, the series of sacrifices in the Jihadi platform of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the special revolutionary process has continued in Pakistan, and we hope to Allah that the suffering of the oppressed Muslims of Pakistan will end soon,” the spokesman said. (NVI)

IED detected, destroyed on Sgr-Baramulla highway, Major tragedy averted

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 09 (NVI): A major tragedy was averted today when a Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) successfully defused an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) discovered along the Srinagar-Baramulla National Highway in Palhallan, Pattan of Baramulla district.

Officials said that the joint forces from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, CRPF and SSB Battalion acted swiftly after detecting the device near Pattan on Srinagar-Baramulla highway. Soon after destroying the IED, traffic was immediately restored.

The BDS safely destroyed the IED without any harm. The timely operation averted a major disaster and traffic was soon restored along the busy highway.

Authorities have registered a case at Police Station Pattan and an investigation is underway to determine the origin of the device at the terrorists behind planting it.(News Vibes of India)

Freezing temperatures grip Kashmir, Ladakh, Mixed winter chill in Jammu region

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 09(NVI) : The Valley is under the tight grip of severe cold with temperatures showing a sharp decline bringing in the frosty start of the day.

With ski resort of Gulmarg recording the lowest at a bone-chilling -9.0°C. Shopian (-7.5°C) and Sonamarg (-7.0°C) followed closely, highlighting the intensity of the cold wave. Popular tourist destinations like Pahalgam (-6.8°C) and Pulwama (-6.7°C) are also experiencing severe frost. Even relatively warmer areas like Srinagar and Ganderbal couldn’t escape the freezewith both registering -3.3°C.

Other regions, such as Kupwara (-4.4°C), Kulgam (-5.1°C), and Bandipora (-4.1°C), also endured subzero conditions. Notably, Larnoo stood out with a biting -7.9°C, underscoring the widespread cold across the valley.

Jammu’s weather showed significant variation, with the plains offering some respite while higher altitudes experienced freezing conditions. Padder was the coldest in the region at -7.5°C, matching Shopian in Kashmir. Other high-altitude areas like Banihal (-3.1°C) and Bhaderwah (-1.2°C) also faced icy temperatures.

In contrast, the plains were comparatively milder, with Jammu (6.5°C) and Kathua (7.0°C) recording temperatures above freezing. However, locations like Samba (2.3°C) and Udhampur (1.6°C) still felt the winter chill, with Ramban being the warmest spot at 9.2°C.

Ladakh bore the brunt of the cold, with Leh registering a numbing -12.8°C, making it the coldest location across all regions. This extreme low highlights the harsh winter conditions, where freezing temperatures dominate life during this season( News Vibes of India)

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