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Police Seize Rs 4.3 Crore Assets in major crackdown on drug trafficking in J&K

Representational pic of illegal drugs
Srinagar, Dec 07 ( NVI): In a significant move to curb drug trafficking, Police have attached properties worth Rs 4.3 crores under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Anantnag district of South Kashmir.
Police said that  the assets seized include five residential houses and three vehicles linked to narcotics activities.
Among the properties affected are several homes, including those of individuals involved in multiple NDPS cases, as well as vehicles tied to suspected drug offenders. Notably, a Santro, WagonR and Toyota Corolla were also seized. This operation, carried out by Bijbehara and Achabal Police, is a part of J&K Police’s ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks in the region.
These actions aim not only to disrupt the financial structures supporting illicit drug trade but also to create a deterrent effect, emphasizing that criminal activities related to narcotics will be met with severe legal consequences. The J&K Police continue to call for public support in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking. (News Vibes of India)

Drought-like conditions in J&K: Fish species, ecosystem suffer amid 72% rainfall deficit

Kashmir Valley (File Pic)
NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 06 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir has faced a significant challenge this year with a 72 percent deficiency in rainfall wreaking havoc on its water bodies and aquatic life.
The lack of precipitation has led to diminished water levels in rivers and lakes, which  has directly affected the habitat and survival of local fish species and aquatic  animals.
While this situation impacts the livelihood of fishermen, the ecological consequences are even more profound.
Experts note that the scarcity of rainfall has compounded existing threats to the Kashmir’s freshwater ecosystems. “The ongoing drought conditions have resulted in significantly lower water levels in Kashmir’s rivers and lakes,” said Dr. Masood Balkhi, a specialist in fisheries and biodiversity. “This has disrupted the breeding grounds of native species like the snow trout and golden mahseer, which are vital to the Valley’s aquatic biodiversity.”
The situation has been exacerbated by rising pollution levels and the degradation of habitats.
 “Aquatic habitats, already strained by the ongoing water shortage, face additional pressure from pollution,” says Dr. Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a fisheries conservation expert. “The loss of breeding areas and the increase in water contamination are forcing many fish species to either migrate or face extinction.”
These challenges have prompted experts to call for urgent conservation measures, including strict regulations to protect habitats and the establishment of hatcheries to support species like snow trout. “The decline of these species can have long-term impacts not only on local biodiversity but also on the fishing industry, which many families rely on for their livelihoods,” Dr. Balkhi adds.
Additionally, environmentalists argue for the adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture and mining to mitigate further damage. “The balance of water ecosystems is fragile and human activities must align with conservation efforts to prevent further destruction,” warns Dr. Bhat.
The current crisis calls for a concerted effort from local authorities and communities to restore and protect the Kashmir’s aquatic resources before these invaluable species are lost forever. (News Vibes of India)

200 units of free electricity in J&K, roll out in March 2025: NC leader

Tanvir Sadiq, MLA & Chief Spokesperson National Conference. (File Pic)
SRINAGAR, Dec 7 (NVI) Reiterating the commitment of the ruling National Conference (NC) to provide 200 units of electricity free in Jammu and Kashmir, its senior leader Tanvir Sadiq today said modalities of the scheme are being finalised and a formal announcement will come by March next year.
Speaking to reporters here, Sadiq said the scheme could be implemented right away but that would require additional power curtailments, which the government wants to avoid.
“This promise is not symbolic. It’s backed by action. We are finalizing the modalities to roll it out without affecting the current power supply. The formal announcement will come by March next year,” the NC MLA said.
The scheme is expected to offer much-needed relief to residents, particularly as energy prices continue to rise. Sadiq expressed confidence that this measure would elevate the standard of living while aligning with the government’s vision of development and welfare for all.
Dispelling rumors of discord between Raj Bhavan and the elected government, Sadiq called such speculation baseless. “There is no rift. Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory, and cooperation between institutions is key to effective governance,” he said.
This announcement underscores the NC government’s determination to deliver on its promises while ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted, signaling a step toward a brighter, more stable future for the people of J&K. (News Vibes of India)

Drought-like conditions in J&K: Fish species, ecosystems suffer amid 72% rainfall deficit

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 07(NVI): Jammu and Kashmir has faced a significant challenge this year with a 72 percent deficiency in rainfall wreaking havoc on its water bodies and aquatic life.

The lack of precipitation has led to diminished water levels in rivers and lakes, which has directly affected the habitat and survival of local fish species and aquatic animals.

While this situation impacts the livelihood of fishermen, the ecological consequences are even more profound.

Experts note that the scarcity of rainfall has compounded existing threats to the Kashmir’s freshwater ecosystems. “The ongoing drought conditions have resulted in significantly lower water levels in Kashmir’s rivers and lakes,” said Dr. Masood Balkhi, a specialist in fisheries and biodiversity. “This has disrupted the breeding grounds of native species like the snow trout and golden mahseer, which are vital to the Valley’s aquatic biodiversity.”

The situation has been exacerbated by rising pollution levels and the degradation of habitats.

“Aquatic habitats, already strained by the ongoing water shortage, face additional pressure from pollution,” says Dr. Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a fisheries conservation expert. “The loss of breeding areas and the increase in water contamination are forcing many fish species to either migrate or face extinction.”

These challenges have prompted experts to call for urgent conservation measures, including strict regulations to protect habitats and the establishment of hatcheries to support species like snow trout. “The decline of these species can have long-term impacts not only on local biodiversity but also on the fishing industry, which many families rely on for their livelihoods,” Dr. Balkhi adds.

Additionally, environmentalists argue for the adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture and mining to mitigate further damage. “The balance of water ecosystems is fragile and human activities must align with conservation efforts to prevent further destruction,” warns Dr. Bhat.

The current crisis calls for a concerted effort from local authorities and communities to restore and protect the Kashmir’s aquatic resources before these invaluable species are lost forever. (News Vibes of India)

Union Cabinet approves 13 new Kendriya Vidyalayas to Boost Education in J&K

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 07(NVI): In a landmark decision aimed at strengthening the education infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of 13 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) across the Union Territory.

This initiative seeks to provide quality education to students in some of the most underserved regions.

Locations of the Approved Kendriya Vidyalayas. Jammu Region: Gool (Ramban), Bani and Ramkote (Kathua), Reasi and Kakriyal (Katra), Mughal Maidan (Kishtwar), Gulpur (Poonch), Vijaypur (Samba), Panchari (Udhampur). In Kashmir, Drugmulla (Kupwara),Ratnipora (Pulwama) and Galander Chandhara (Pulwama).

This development positions Jammu and Kashmir as the leading recipient of new Kendriya Vidyalayas among all states and union territories in the country. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of students by enhancing access to affordable and high-quality education.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing education in the region.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said: “Thanks PM Sh @narendramodi ji for giving special consideration to JammuAndKashmir. Union Cabinet approves 13 new Kendriya Vidyalayas for different locations across J&K, out of which over 50% fall in Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency.”

This move aligns with the government’s broader vision of uplifting the education sector in remote and hilly regions, ensuring equal opportunities for all students. (News Vibes of India)

Winter Vacation Announced for Schools in Kashmir & Jammu Winter Zones

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI): The government has announced the winter vacation schedule for all government and recognized private schools up to the higher secondary level in Kashmir Division and the winter zones of Jammu Division.

According to Government Order a copy of which lies NVI reads, the government has announced winter vacation schedule for all government and recognized private schools, up to the higher secondary level in Kashmir and Jammu Division and the primary Classes (up to 5th grade): From 10th December 2024 to 28th February 2025

It reads as, classes 6th to 12th Standard, from 16th December 2024 to 28th February 2025.

Additionally, the government has issued a few key directives, as teachers of government high schools and higher secondary schools will be stationed at their respective headquarters from 10th February 2025 for the preparation of upcoming board exams for Class 10, 11, and 12.

It reads, teachers must remain available for online guidance during the vacation period, and strict action will be taken against the heads of institutions or teaching staff if they fail to adhere to this schedule.—(News Vibes of India)

POJK: Agitation against Pakistan to be intensified and expanded

Protests continue in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).

Rawalakot (PoJK), Dec 5 (NVI) The agitation launched in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) against a newly-imposed draconian law will be intensified and expanded now, announced the leaders spearheading the movement.

The territories of J&K under illegal occupation of Pakistan have already witnessed a total shutdown and mass protests since yesterday against the law which effectively curbs all rights of the local people, including the right to protest.

Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, a conglomeration of social, political, religious, trade, student and labour organizations of PoJK which is spearheading the agitation, today announced long marches to all the points of entry into POJK from Pakistan to take the occupiers head on.

The protests in various parts of POJK are marked by chants of ‘azadi’ demand.

Thousands of people have been taking to the streets in extreme cold weather to register their opposition and resistance to the new law which prohibits gathering of people and holding of protests.

As a mark of protest, black flags were hoisted atop rooftops of houses and shops in Rawalakot and other major towns of PoJK.

Shopkeepers of Rawalakot have also painted shutters of their shops in black as a mark of protest.

Yesterday, at the end of the day-long ‘hartal’, the Committee issued an ultimatum to the Pakistani regime to withdraw the ‘black law’ by tomorrow noon, failing which a long-term agitation would be launched.

It said the new agitation may include a long march to Islamabad.

The Committee also demanded immediate release of the leaders and others who have been arrested for protesting against the new law over the past few weeks.

The Committee has vowed to resist the illegal occupation of Pakistan tooth and nail in the wake of the new law which has been promulgated by the President of Pakistan, ironically despite the country describing the illegally-held territories of J&K as ‘Azad Kashmir’. (NVI)

Settle dues by March 31, 2025 to avail Power Amnesty Scheme benefits : KPDCL

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI) : The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has issued a final call to domestic consumers to take advantage of the Government’s Power Amnesty Scheme before the March 31, 2025 deadline.

After this date, no further extensions will be granted, and consumers will lose the opportunity to clear outstanding dues without late payment surcharges.

Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, Er. Aaquib Waheed Deva, emphasized that consumers have just four months left to pay their principal dues in full or through installments, free from any late payment penalties.

The scheme, which has already benefitted 1,09,648 domestic consumers and collected Rs. 164 crore, has been instrumental in reducing long-standing arrears. In total, the government has waived off Rs. 58 crore in late payment surcharges, providing significant relief to consumers.

“This is the final opportunity for consumers to settle their dues and avoid further complications. After the scheme expires, we will be left with no choice but to pursue legal action, including disconnections,” warned Er. Aaquib Waheed Deva.

KPDCL is urging the remaining 41,259 consumers with outstanding balances to visit their local Electric Subdivisions and settle their bills before the deadline. This initiative is an important step toward improving the financial health of the power sector, and KPDCL is encouraging all eligible consumers to take action promptly to avoid potential consequences.(News Vibes of India)

J&K to Identify 1.37 Lakh Potential Entrepreneurs through statewide survey

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 06(NVI) : In a bid to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and self-employment among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a comprehensive meeting today to assess the progress of an upcoming baseline survey. The initiative aims to identify 1.37 lakh potential entrepreneurs across the region.

An official statement to NVI reads that this survey, a collaborative effort between the Labour & Employment (L&E) and Planning Departments, will begin in January 2024 and is a key component of the Mission YUVA (Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan) program designed to empower youth with entrepreneurial skills and opportunities.

The meeting was attended by a wide array of stakeholders, including the Secretary of L&E, Secretary of Planning and Development, Principal Secretary of School Education, and other senior government officials from various departments. Also present were representatives from institutions like IIM Jammu, NABARD, JK Bank, and BISAG-N, who are involved in the implementation of the initiative.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary was briefed on the plans for the survey, which will be conducted by around 20,000 investigators designated by the Planning Department. These investigators will collect data from across the region, aiming to understand the aspirations of J&K’s youth regarding self-employment and the challenges they face in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. The survey will also assess existing enterprises to identify the challenges they encounter in their growth.

Empowering Youth Through Data-Driven Insights

Dulloo stressed that the purpose of this survey is not only to identify aspiring entrepreneurs but also to understand the barriers that hinder their entrepreneurial ambitions. By capturing real-time data through a specially developed online application by BISAG-N, the survey will provide valuable insights that will help shape future policies and provide targeted support for entrepreneurs.

“The survey aims to understand the entrepreneurial aspirations of J&K’s youth, particularly in the age group of 18-49 years. The data collected will help us design programs that support aspiring entrepreneurs and address their challenges effectively,” Dulloo remarked during the meeting.

He also encouraged university and college students to actively participate in the survey to ensure it reflects the true aspirations of the youth. “This is a meaningful exercise that will allow us to better understand the needs of our youth and create a supportive ecosystem for them,” Dulloo added.

Mission YUVA: A Pathway to Empowerment

The Mission YUVA program, which forms the foundation of this survey, aims to create 1.37 lakh new enterprises in the region within the next five years, generating around 4.25 lakh job opportunities. This ambitious initiative will focus on providing financial support, skill training, and a nurturing ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs.

As part of the broader effort, a “Youth Skill & Entrepreneurship App” has been developed to serve as a one-stop platform for young people interested in entrepreneurship. This app will offer services ranging from career counseling and skill development to access to financial resources, including loans and subsidies. It will also provide a platform for youth to apply for credit from financial institutions and assist them in accessing soft skills and online/offline skill courses.

The app will also integrate job alerts, CV generation tools, and a marketplace for businesses to connect with customers globally, enhancing both local and international business linkages. The app will work in tandem with various business help desks, incubation centers, and innovation hubs set up across the region, including at IIM Jammu.

Training and Awareness for a Seamless Rollout

In preparation for the survey’s rollout, the meeting also discussed the training of field staff. A group of master trainers will be selected from each district, who will then undergo training in both Srinagar and Jammu. These trainers will, in turn, train the survey investigators, ensuring the accurate collection of data in towns and villages across the Union Territory.

Satveer Kour, the Director General of Employment and Skills (E&S), explained that the survey would be conducted in two major phases: a preliminary period for training and preparation, followed by the enumeration of the youth and existing businesses. This initiative aims to create a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape in J&K and pave the way for targeted interventions by the government.

A Vision for the Future

The Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of data collection for developing effective policies and programs. He urged the concerned officers to ensure maximum outreach, ensuring the survey reaches every corner of the UT. “We must ensure that this survey not only identifies potential entrepreneurs but also gathers enough data to design relevant support mechanisms,” Dulloo concluded.

With the goal of fostering an entrepreneurial culture and creating a thriving ecosystem, this initiative marks a significant step toward addressing unemployment in J&K and providing youth with the tools and resources they need to build successful enterprises.

This survey and the subsequent creation of enterprises under Mission YUVA hold the promise of not only reducing unemployment but also stimulating innovation and economic growth across Jammu and Kashmir.(News Vibes of India)

Satellite Townships will serve locals, no need to politicise it : Advisor Nasir Wani

Nasir Aslam Wani, NC Leader & newly appointed Advisor to CM

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI): Amid ongoing criticism from the PDP over the proposed satellite townships in Kashmir, Nasir Aslam Wani, Senior National Conference leader and Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reassured the public that the townships would serve the local population.

“We are still dealing with the repercussions of the PDP’s past actions. If any satellite township is established, it will be for the local people. There is no need to make an issue out of it,” Wani said during a press conference at Nawa-e-Subh party headquarters, responding to the PDP’s accusations of demographic change.

His comments came during the National Conference’s provincial meet, where key regional issues were discussed. Wani strongly dismissed concerns regarding demographic shifts, reaffirming that the government remains committed to the welfare of Kashmir’s residents.

Adding to the reassurance, Tanvir Sadiq, NC’s Chief Spokesman, emphasized that the government would release an official response to the PDP’s objections. “Every decision we make will always be for the betterment of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Sadiq stated, urging the public not to overstate the controversy.

Meanwhile, the National Conference also marked a significant leadership change by electing Showkat Mir as the new provincial president, further solidifying the party’s commitment to local governance and regional development–(News Vibes of India).

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