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Third batch of over 4,800 pilgrims leaves Jammu for Amarnath Yatra

Holy Cave Shri Amarnath Ji

Jammu, Jul 4 (NVI): The third batch of 4,812 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Saturday for the annual Amarnath Yatra amid multi-layered security arrangements, officials said.

According to officials, the batch departed in a convoy of 259 vehicles for the twin base camps of Baltal in Ganderbal district and Nunwan in Pahalgam Of the total pilgrims, 2,041 are travelling via the shorter Baltal route, while 2,771 are heading for the traditional Pahalgam route.

The batch includes 3,434 men, 966 women, 11 children, 244 sadhus and 157 sadhvis. The convoy comprises 95 buses, 47 medium motor vehicles, 116 light motor vehicles and one two-wheeler.

Officials said the Baltal-bound convoy left Bhagwati Nagar at around 3 am, followed by the Pahalgam-bound convoy at 3.24 am under tight security.

Meanwhile, the second batch of pilgrims began their onward trek from the Baltal and Nunwan base camps towards the 3,880-metre-high Amarnath cave shrine in the south Kashmir Himalayas on Saturday.

Pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the elaborate security arrangements, saying they had enhanced their confidence during the pilgrimage.

The 57-day Amarnath Yatra commenced on July 3 and is scheduled to conclude on August 28, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.—(NVI)

 

Balochistan: BLA attacks Pakistan Coast Guard Camp; 30 killed, dozens injured

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

Quetta (Balochistan), July 3: Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) carried out a massive attack, including a suicide blast, on a camp of Pakistan Coast Guard in Gwadar district of Balochistan and claimed to have killed 30 Pakistani soldiers and injured dozens of others.

The camp, located at Panwan in Jiwani area of Gwadar, was hit by a vehicle carrying explosives and driven by a suicide bomber.

There were massive explosions when the vehicle hit the gate of the camp which suffered extensive damage.

Immediately afterwards, more BLA fighters launched an assault on the camp from all sides to eliminate any surviving military personnel.

“This evening at 6:32 PM (Pakistan time), Attaullah Baloch alias Ajmal, a fidayeen (suicide) fighter of our elite unit, the Majeed Brigade, successfully drove an explosive-laden Mazda vehicle inside the Coast Guard camp at Panwan in the Jiwani area and detonated it,” BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

“As a result of this powerful blast, the fortified colonial camp of the Coast Guards was completely turned into a heap of rubble,” he said.

“Immediately after the attack, our organization’s vanguard unit, the Fateh Squad, advanced rapidly and in an organized manner, launching an assault on the destroyed camp from all sides,” the spokesman said.

The fighters of the Fateh Squad “targeted the remaining personnel present near the camp, who had survived the blast and were suffering from extreme fear and panic, in close-quarter combat and shot them dead,” he said.

“In this successful operation, more than 30 enemy personnel have been killed so far, and dozens of others are seriously injured,” Jeeyand Baloch added.

Given the critical condition of the injured and the personnel trapped under the rubble, a further increase in the enemy’s casualties is highly likely, he said.

The spokesman said a detailed statement will be released to the media very soon. (NVI)

Police, Drug Department Inspect Chemist Shops in Poonch

Shivam Bakshi

Poonch, Jul 3 (NVI): Police and the Drugs Control Department on Friday carried out a joint inspection of medical shops in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukht Abhiyan aimed at checking the misuse of prescription medicines, officials said.

The inspection was conducted by Probationary Deputy Superintendent of Police Tania Gupta, SHO Poonch City, along with Drug Inspector Vikas Kumar Sharma.

During the drive, the team verified drug licences, stock registers, purchase and sale records, availability of prescription medicines, expired drug stocks and the functioning of CCTV cameras at various medical shops, the officials said.

Medical shop owners were directed not to sell prescription medicines without valid prescriptions and to strictly comply with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, they said.

The officials said the drive is part of the district administration’s efforts to curb drug abuse, prevent the illegal sale and misuse of medicines, and ensure compliance with drug regulations.

They warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating drug laws, adding that similar inspections will continue across the district.(NVI)

Army Commander Reviews Operational Preparedness Along LoC in Poonch Sectors

Shivam Bakshi

Jammu, July 3 (NVI): Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma on Friday visited the forward areas of the Krishna Ghati and Poonch sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) to review the operational preparedness and security measures, officials said.

During the visit, the Army Commander interacted with troops deployed in the forward areas and commended them for their vigilance, dedication and sustained efforts in maintaining a high level of operational readiness under challenging conditions, they said.

He urged all ranks to remain mission-focused and continue upholding the highest standards of operational excellence while safeguarding the nation’s frontiers, officials added.(NVI)

PM’s message distributed to Amarnath pilgrims at Nunwan, Baltal base camps

Srinagar, Jul 3 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday distributed pamphlets carrying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s special message to pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra at the Nunwan and Baltal base camps.

In his message, the prime minister extended greetings and best wishes to the devotees, describing the Amarnath Yatra as an enduring symbol of India’s spiritual heritage, cultural unity and the spirit of selfless service.

Modi said undertaking the pilgrimage was a matter of great fortune and a deeply spiritual experience, adding that devotees from across the country travel to the holy cave shrine with unwavering faith to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani.

He said the annual yatra has become a living expression of India’s unity in diversity by bringing together people from different regions, languages and traditions, while reflecting the strength of Sanatan culture and reinforcing the country’s spiritual and cultural bonds.

The prime minister also appreciated the efforts of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and the Jammu and Kashmir administration for ensuring smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. He acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, disaster response agencies, healthcare workers, sanitation staff and other personnel engaged in managing the yatra.

Modi also praised the hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the voluntary services rendered by local residents and organisations through community kitchens (langars) and service camps along the pilgrimage route.

Calling upon pilgrims to make the yatra a model of responsible citizenship, the prime minister urged them to follow five pledges — maintain cleanliness, ensure safety by adhering to official advisories, support local livelihoods by purchasing locally made products, promote environmental conservation through the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, and strengthen nation-building by upholding the spirit of “Nation First”.

Expressing confidence that the 2026 Shri Amarnath Yatra would strengthen the values of faith, national unity and selfless service, Modi wished all pilgrims a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling journey.

According to the administration, pilgrims welcomed the prime minister’s message and said it reinforced their enthusiasm and spiritual resolve for the pilgrimage.(NVI)

IAF beats Navy 2-1 to win Arjan Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament

New Delhi, Jul 3 (NVI): The Indian Air Force (IAF) defeated the Indian Navy 2-1 to clinch the 7th edition of the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament, which concluded at the Air Force Station, Jalahalli, on Friday.

The tournament was held from June 23 to July 3 at the Amit Singh Bakshi Hockey Stadium and featured participation from 16 teams.

The closing ceremony was attended by Air Marshal Seethepalli Shrinivas, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, as the chief guest. Indian hockey players Baljeet Kaur and Olympian PR Sreejesh were the guests of honour.

In the final, the IAF overcame the Navy 2-1 to lift the title. Sgt Anand Lakra of the Air Force was adjudged the Man of the Match, while AGV(S) Agyapal of the Air Force was named the Player of the Tournament.

The winners received a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh along with the championship trophy, while the runners-up were awarded Rs 8 lakh and the runners-up trophy.(NVI)

Congress MLA Alleges Assault by NC Legislator’s Brother During Official Meeting in Bandipora

Srinagar, Jul 3 (NVI): Congress MLA from Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat, on Friday alleged that he was attacked by the brother of National Conference (NC) MLA from Sonawari and his supporters during an official review meeting in the Naidkhai area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.

Bhat claimed that the incident occurred while he was chairing a meeting to review the progress of various development works, including expenditure on a sports stadium and other projects. According to him, some participants objected to the proceedings, walked out, and later returned along with Jalal Akbar Lone and several supporters.

The Congress legislator alleged that the group entered the meeting venue, vandalised the premises by damaging doors and window panes, and disrupted the official proceedings.

He urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to order a probe into the incident and take appropriate action against those involved.

Bhat also said that failure to act could affect the alliance between the Congress and the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir.

He alleged that the disruption was aimed at preventing scrutiny of the utilisation of around Rs 2 crore sanctioned for development works in the block over the past one-and-a-half years.

The Congress MLA further claimed that repeated interference had affected the functioning of the local administration, with some officials allegedly seeking transfers from the area.

There was no immediate response from the National Conference or the accused regarding the allegations.(NVI)

DAC clears defence acquisitions worth ₹52,000 crore to boost military capabilities

Rajnath
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (file pic)

New Delhi, Jul 3 (NVI): The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Friday accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth about ₹52,000 crore aimed at enhancing the combat readiness of the armed forces.

The approvals cover a range of advanced weapon systems and platforms for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

For the Indian Army, the DAC cleared procurement of the Anti-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Electronic Warfare System ‘Akash Tarang’, Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) systems, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) weapon system, Very Short Range Air Defence System (V-SHORADS), Active Protection System for tanks and Jet-Based Kamikaze Drone System.

According to the Defence Ministry, the Akash Tarang system will provide effective protection against hostile drones, while the MPATGM will strengthen the infantry’s capability against mechanised threats. The MRSAM system is designed to provide medium-range air defence against various aerial threats.

The V-SHORADS will improve air defence with enhanced countermeasure resilience, while the Active Protection System is intended to improve the survivability of tanks. The jet-based kamikaze drone system will enhance electronic warfare capability with greater lethality and operational effectiveness.

For the Indian Navy, the DAC approved procurement of Multi Influence Ground Mines (MIGM), Naval Shipborne Unmanned Aerial Systems (NSUAS) and establishment of a Land-Based Testing Facility (LBTF) for electric propulsion systems.

The ministry said the MIGM will enhance maritime area denial capability, the NSUAS will improve surveillance and situational awareness, while the testing facility will support the development and validation of electric propulsion systems for naval platforms.

For the Indian Air Force, the council approved procurement of Fixed-Wing High Altitude Pseudo Satellites (FW-HAPS) and other proposals.

The FW-HAPS platform is expected to provide persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, besides supporting telecommunications and remote sensing missions, the ministry said.(NVI)

DC, SSP Flag Off Amarnath Yatra Along Pahalgam Route from Nunwan Base Camp

Anantnag, July 3 (NVI): The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra along the traditional Pahalgam route commenced on Friday as Deputy Commissioner (Yatra Officer) Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat and Senior Superintendent of Police Amod Ashok Nagpure flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from the Nunwan Base Camp in Pahalgam.

Senior civil and police officers, including Camp Director Atul Kumar, SDM Pahalgam and other officials, were present on the occasion.

After the flag-off, the pilgrims were transported to Chandanwari in special shuttle buses arranged by the Motor Vehicles Department, from where they will proceed towards the holy cave shrine.

The district administration said elaborate arrangements, including accommodation, medical facilities, sanitation, transport and security, have been put in place at various camps and along the pilgrimage route to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the yatra.

Pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by the administration and security agencies as they began their pilgrimage with enthusiasm and devotion, officials said.(NVI)

Moderate to Heavy Rain Likely in J&K Till July 5; MeT Warns of Flash Floods, Landslides

(File/Representational image)

 

Srinagar, July 3 (NVI): The Meteorological Department has forecast intermittent spells of rain and thunderstorms across Jammu and Kashmir till July 5, with heavy rainfall at isolated places likely to trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas, officials said on Friday.

Director of the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, said significant rainfall was recorded in parts of the Jammu region, with Udhampur receiving 85 mm of rain, followed by Kathua (41.5 mm) and Rajpura (27 mm). Other stations recorded light to moderate rainfall.

He said that from July 3 to July 5, many places across the Union Territory are likely to witness one or two spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers, mainly during the late afternoon, evening, and late-night or early-morning hours. A few places may experience heavy rainfall, brief intense showers and thunderstorms.

From July 6 to July 9, the weather is expected to remain generally hot and humid, with intermittent light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places. Isolated areas may also witness brief intense showers accompanied by thunder, Ahmad said.

The MeT Department has advised people to remain cautious as heavy rainfall or intense showers could trigger localized flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas.

People have been urged to stay away from nallas, streams and landslide-prone areas and to follow official advisories during the forecast period, the officials said.(NVI)

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