BANDIPORA, FEBRUARY 13: Bandipora–Gurez road was today thrown open for regulated traffic movement, facilitating the safe passage of commuters amid prevailing weather conditions.
The movement was carried out under the supervision of the District Administration Bandipora in coordination with the concerned departments.
During the regulated window, a total of 23 vehicles were allowed to ply from Bandipora towards Gurez. No heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) were permitted, and only vehicles fitted with anti-skid chains were allowed to proceed. Traffic from the opposite direction, i.e., from Gurez towards Bandipora, remained restricted in view of safety considerations.
Importantly, in view of the forthcoming holy month of Ramadhan, vehicles carrying essential supplies were also allowed to cross, ensuring timely availability of necessary commodities in Gurez. The development has brought relief and joy to residents, particularly as preparations begin for the sacred month.
All the permitted vehicles successfully reached Gurez, and the traffic movement was conducted smoothly.
The District Administration Bandipora appeals to commuters and passengers to strictly adhere to official advisories, confirm road status through designated control rooms before undertaking journeys, and cooperate with authorities to ensure safe and hassle-free travel.
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting of the UT-Level Steering Committee to review the implementation of the PM eBus Sewa Scheme in Jammu & Kashmir, under which 200 electric buses are being procured to strengthen and modernize urban public transport across the Union Territory.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD); Secretary, Transport; Director General, Codes; Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC); Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC); Chief Engineers of JPDCL and KPDCL; and other senior officers concerned.
While reviewing the progress achieved so far, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for expeditious development of supporting infrastructure to ensure seamless operationalization of the e-buses.
He directed the Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) of Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) and Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) to prioritize the establishment of Behind-the-Meter (BTM) power infrastructure, civil depot infrastructure, and other requisite facilities essential for efficient functioning of the fleet.
Stressing adherence to timelines, the Chief Secretary asked the concerned agencies to complete the tendering processes after carefully examining prevailing national trends and best practices. He further directed that all necessary arrangements be put in place so that the buses are pressed into service immediately upon their receipt, ensuring timely benefits to the public.
Commissioner Secretary, H&UDD, Mandeep Kaur, briefed the Committee about the scheme’s implementation framework in the UT. She informed that 100 e-buses each will be procured by Srinagar Smart City Limited and Jammu Smart City Limited under the PM eBus Sewa Scheme.
Providing details of the fleet composition, she stated that JSCL will procure 25 buses of 12-metre length and 75 buses of 7-metre length, while SSCL will procure 20 buses of 12-metre length and 80 buses of 9-metre length, catering to the operational requirements of both cities.
Commissioner, JMC, Devansh Yadav, further elaborated on the progress made under the scheme. He informed that the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for Civil Depot Infrastructure (CDI) and Behind-the-Meter (BTM) Power Infrastructure for both Jammu and Srinagar have been approved in accordance with the guidelines of the PM eBus Sewa Scheme. Tenders for these works have already been issued by JSCL and SSCL respectively.
It was further informed that the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has issued the Mother Sanction amounting to ₹14.28 crore for the Behind-the-Meter power infrastructure and the first tranche of ₹14.05 crore for Civil Infrastructure through SNA–SPARSH, facilitating timely execution of the project components.
The meeting was apprised that the PM eBus Sewa Scheme, instituted by MoHUA, is a flagship national programme aimed at large-scale electrification of urban public transport systems across the country. Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) has been appointed by MoHUA as the Implementation Support Agency for aggregated procurement and contracting under the scheme, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and cost optimization.
The Chief Secretary called this a sustainable urban mobility initiative and underscored that the introduction of electric buses will significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve urban air quality, and provide safe, reliable, and eco-friendly public transport to the citizens of J&K.
SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 11: Govt. College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar, has achieved a significant academic milestone with the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), the statutory body regulating Teacher Education programmes in the country granting recognition to the 4 year Integrated B.A.-B.Ed. and B.Sc.-B.Ed. Programmes for the secondary stage, the only institution in the UT of J&K to offer B.Sc-B.Ed.
The recognition of the Integrated Teacher Education Programmes (ITEP) by NCTE represents a major step forward in aligning the institution with the vision and objectives of the National Education Policy2020, and marks a significant academic milestone for the institution, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to excellence, quality assurance and national benchmarks in Teacher Education.
ITEP is a 4 year Dual Major Bachelor’s Degree that allows students to earn two qualifications in 4 years resulting in B.A.-B.Ed (Bachelors of Arts & B.Ed) and B.Sc- B.Ed (Bachelor of Science & B.Ed).
The College management has further informed that the college from this academic session will start Ph.D in Education alongside with FYUG 4th year Research Vertical recognized by the Cluster University, Srinagar.
Prof. Seema Naz, Principal of the college appreciated the faculty members, non-teaching staff and all stakeholders for their collective efforts and sustained commitment that has led to this remarkable academic achievement.
The institution expressed its acknowledgement to Prof. Pankaj Arora Chairperson, National Council for Teacher Education for granting recognition to the ITEP programmes, and Shri R.N Sharma, IAS, Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education Department, Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir, for his support and facilitation. The college further expressed gratitude to Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Syed Wilayat Rizvi, Registrar Cluster University, Srinagar, for their cooperation and academic support in accomplishing this important milestone.
Bandipora, February 10: District Administration Bandipora today organised a cyber awareness workshop at the Conference Hall, Mini Secretariat Bandipora, to mark the observance of Safer Internet Day–2026.
The programme aimed at promoting safe and responsible use of the internet and strengthening cyber hygiene practices among government officials.
During the workshop, experts highlighted various cyber threats including phishing attacks, OTP and UPI frauds, malware risks, misinformation and AI-based deepfakes.
Participants were sensitised about preventive measures, safe digital practices and reporting mechanisms to enhance overall cybersecurity within official systems.
The speakers stressed that cyber safety has become an essential part of official responsibility and urged officers to remain vigilant while using digital platforms.
The workshop concluded with an interactive session where participants discussed cyber hygiene practices, verification of online content and effective ways to prevent cyber frauds, reaffirming the administration’s commitment towards building a secure digital environment in the district.
Gaurav Yadav, CPO Bandipora; DIO NIC Srinagar, were present on the occasion along with other district and sectoral officers.
Awantipora, February 10: Police in Awantipora have taken cognizance of complaints regarding cheating of local shopkeepers through misuse of QR codes for digital payments.
During the course of inquiry under the supervision of SHO PS Awantipora Insp Aijaz Ahmad, it was revealed that Sameer Ahmad Hajam son of Shabir Ahmad Hajam resident of Boh, Awantipora was involved in cheating shopkeepers by showing fake/forged payment confirmation through QR codes and dishonestly obtaining money. Subsequently, he was arrested in the instant case.
Police have initiated necessary legal action as per law, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the full extent of the fraud and involvement of any other persons.
Shopkeepers and the general public are advised to verify successful credit of payments in their bank accounts before handing over goods, and report any suspicious activity immediately to the nearest police station. Police remain committed to protecting citizens from cyber and digital frauds.
Ganderbal, February 09: In a significant achievement, J&K Police in Ganderbal has secured 20 Year’s imprisonment for an accused involved in a grave offence under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The Conviction marks a major success in the J&K Police’s unwavering efforts to ensure justice for the victims of such heinous crimes.
The accused Rouf Ahmad Ganaie Son of Bashir Ahmad Ganaie resident of Takiya Khalmulla Nagbal, Ganderbal has been awarded 20 Years imprisonment along with a fine of Rs.50,000/- by the Hon’ble Court of Principal Sessions Judge, Ganderbal, under Section 3/4 of POCSO Act.
The judgment reflects the strong and effective prosecution put forth during the trial. The outstanding contribution of the Prosecution Department in ensuring a successful conviction has been highly commendable.
Mr. Shafat Ahmad Bhat (PP) had prosecuted the case and Mr. Jehangir Rafiqi (PP) argued the case on behalf of the prosecution. The case was investigated by SI Mohammad Akbar, whose diligent and professional investigation played a crucial role in bringing the accused to justice.
Police reiterates its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable sections of society and ensuring that perpetrators of such offences are brought to face the full force of law.
This is my heartfelt memoir of the Srinagar I was born into and the Srinagar I carry within me.
Yesterday, as the results of the 10th and 12th grade examinations were declared, social media was instantly flooded with news of success. Every platform echoed with happiness, joy, and excitement as students and parents celebrated together. Today, a large number of students pass these examinations with remarkably high scores.
Many secure more than 90 percent marks, and quite a good number even achieve a perfect 100 percent, resulting in multiple students sharing the first, second, and third positions.
Watching all this, my mind drifted back to my own past.
I was reminded of the year 1992, when I passed my 10th-grade examination—then known as the matric examination. In those days, there was no social media, no television tickers, and no instant updates. Results were declared through a printed gazette.
Sometimes, even before the gazette arrived, the results were announced over radio sets and transistors, eagerly listened to by families and neighbours alike.
I still remember the anxious night before the result. Sleep refused to come as I lay in bed, counting the wooden planks on the ceiling of my room. Early the next morning, I rose and, by around 10 a.m., accompanied my father in search of the result gazette. It was commonly available in almost every locality. In a nearby mohalla, I saw a man holding the gazette, surrounded by students and parents, all patiently waiting for their turn.
Those who passed would willingly give him twenty or thirty rupees, while those who secured a distinction or first division happily gave more.
The moment a student was declared successful, neighbours, relatives, and friends would arrive instantly at the student’s home to congratulate the family. There were no formal invitations or planned gatherings. One ritual, however, was essential—the burning of isband and the showering of almonds and candies on the successful student and family members.
The focus was always on joy—pure, collective joy. Laughter filled the air, hearts remained open, and there was no place for material display. Serving kehwa with sheermal was a graceful and cherished tradition.
Celebrations often continued not just for a day but for an entire week, like a small festival. Whether a student passed in first division or third division hardly mattered. Passing itself was celebrated, and effort was respected as much as achievement.
Today, much of that has changed—along with many other beautiful elements of Srinagar’s rich cultural heritage. The declaration of results, passing examinations, and even achieving distinctions are now often celebrated behind closed doors, confined within four walls. At best, a small and selected circle of relatives or neighbours may be present, but the warmth of collective celebration has faded.
The simplicity of kehwa and sheermal has given way to pomp, extravagance, and unnecessary show. Snacks, tea, and even kanti kebab may still be served, yet hearts often remain closed. The genuine warmth, openness, and excitement that once defined such occasions—when guests were welcomed with sincerity rather than formality—seem increasingly absent.
Like many other aspects of life in my Srinagar, which once felt like a shared home, relationships too have changed. In those days, people truly belonged to one another. Festivals and celebrations were never personal affairs; they belonged to the entire neighbourhood.
Joy and sorrow, happiness and grief, were shared collectively and never owned by one family alone. Visiting neighbours and relatives was not a duty—it was simply a way of life.
Srinagar, especially the old city, lived and breathed around its wooden bridges—Zero Bridge, Budshah Kadal, Amira Kadal, Habba Kadal, Fateh Kadal, Zaina Kadal, Nawa Kadal, Aali Kadal, and Safa Kadal. Life moved slowly and gently, with simplicity, dignity, and very little pretence. If there was happiness, everyone joined in. If there was sorrow, everyone stood together.
This is the Srinagar I was born into. This is the Srinagar I remember—a city where distances were measured in footsteps, not vehicles; where bridges connected hearts, not just localities; where culture was not performed but lived sincerely, with dignity and togetherness.
My Srinagar, my pride.
Syed Majid Gilani is a government officer by profession and a reflective storyteller by passion. He writes on family values, moral wisdom, and real-life emotions.
The views expressed in the article are of the author and do not, in anyway, reflect the opinion of the Valley Observer
Shopian, February 08: Police have seized approximately 700 litres of illegal Kerosene oil and Diesel in Shopian and arrested the accused person involved in the commission of crime.
Acting on specific information regarding illegal sale of subsidised kerosene oil in the black market, Police conducted a raid at Imamsahib area of the district Shopian. A police party from Police Station Imamsahib recovered and seized approximately 700 litres of illegal kerosene oil and diesel from a shop. One person namely Naseer Ahmad War Resident of Arwani Bijbehara was found involved in the illegal trade.
Accordingly, a case FIR No. 10/2026 under relevant provisions of law has been registered at Police Station Imamsahib. The recovered kerosene oil and diesel were seized and accused has been arrested and further investigation is underway.
Preliminary investigation reveals that the accused was involved in black marketing of subsidised kerosene oil. The source of procurement is being investigated and any official found involved in facilitating the illegal trade shall be dealt with strictly as per law.
Police reiterate their commitment to act firmly against illegal activities and urge the general public to cooperate and share information regarding criminal activities in their areas.
Initiative aims to reconnect younger generation with Kashmir’s handcrafted traditions
BUDGAM, FEBRUARY 05: District Administration Budgam today inaugurated a three-day cultural and heritage workshop titled “Naqsh-e-Meeras”, aimed at promoting, preserving and reviving the rich and diverse traditional art and craft heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
The workshop is being organised from 5th to 7th February, 2026 at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Budgam.
The programme was formally inaugurated by the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, along with distinguished guests from the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), in the presence of senior district officers, artisans, students, Self Help Groups and members of the local community. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner said that Naqsh-e-Meeras is a significant initiative of the District Administration to reconnect the younger generation with the rich legacy of Kashmir’s handcrafted traditions, while also providing a strong platform for local artisans to showcase their skills, products and creativity.
The DC emphasized that such heritage-based programmes are vital for preserving traditional knowledge systems that have been passed down through generations. He stated that Kashmir’s handicrafts are not just economic activities but are an important part of the region’s cultural identity, history and collective memory. “We want our local art and crafts to flourish in a sustainable manner so that our younger generations understand the true value of handcrafted products and can clearly differentiate between machine-made and hand-made items. This understanding will help in preserving authenticity, quality and cultural heritage,” the DC said.
He further added that such seminars and workshops play a crucial role in boosting the morale of local artisans, craftsmen and children by giving them recognition, exposure and confidence.
“These platforms not only provide visibility to our artisans but also generate awareness among the masses to adopt and promote local products. This is fully aligned with the spirit of Vocal for Local, where people are encouraged to support indigenous crafts and local economies,” he said.
The DC also highlighted that showcasing traditional techniques and live demonstrations can significantly enhance the financial stability of artisans by opening new market avenues, increasing demand for authentic handmade products and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. By demonstrating old and traditional crafts in a modern, organised setting, we are creating linkages between heritage and contemporary markets. This will ultimately strengthen the economic position of our artisans and contribute to overall economic growth of the district and the region,” he added.
The DC stressed that the District Administration will continue to support such initiatives in collaboration with reputed national institutions to ensure that local craftsmanship receives the recognition, protection and promotion it truly deserves. He reiterated that District administration is committed to continue organising such heritage-focused programmes to promote cultural preservation, artisan empowerment, youth engagement and sustainable economic development across the district. The event witnessed the presence of several senior district officers including GM DIC Budgam Zahid Rashid, SDM Beerwah Taufeeq Gazi, Chief Planning Officer Budgam Javaid Ahmad Najar, CEO Municipal Council Budgam Bilal Ahmad, CEO Budgam Rifat Irfan, District Information Officer Budgam Iram Khan, EO Municipal Committee Beerwah Zamir Lone, besides other senior officers of the district administration.
Large participation was also recorded from students of various schools and colleges, local youth, traditional artisans, Self Help Groups (SHGs), craftspersons and members of the general public, reflecting strong community engagement and interest in heritage preservation.
On the first day of the workshop, various competitions were organised including calligraphy, painting and sketching, aimed at nurturing creativity among students and young artists. Multiple stalls were set up showcasing a wide range of traditional crafts such as Paper Machie, Kani weaving, Sozni embroidery, cooper making, Kangri making, wood carving and other indigenous art forms. An exclusive art gallery was also displayed featuring iconic paintings depicting old Jammu & Kashmir, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s historical, cultural and artistic evolution.
Traditional activities such as yarn weaving and other heritage processes were also demonstrated live, giving participants a hands-on understanding of age-old techniques.
The workshop is being organised by District Administration Budgam in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Budgam, ensuring expert guidance, technical support and national-level exposure for local talen.
Handicrafts & Handloom Dept refutes claims of art dying, published in a daily newspaper
SRINAGAR, JANUARY 31 – The Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir has strongly refuted certain portions of a news story published in a Local daily newspaper with headline – ‘The Art Will Die with Us’: Srinagar’s papier mache craftsmen battle extinction.
In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Department countered the claims made by Nasir Ahmad Mir, a papier mache craftsman, who was interviewed by a reporter for the news story published on 29.01.2026 of the said newspaper.
Giving details, the spokesperson stated that the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, has 19 training centres across Kashmir Division, imparting hands-on training in papier mache craft to around 400 artisans in elementary and advance training courses every year. “The Department has trained as many as 8,102 new papier mache artisans across the valley, who have taken the unique craft forward and carved out a niche for themselves,” he said, adding that a large number of papier mache artisans are still in the unorganised sector, who are being registered so that they can avail the benefits of various flagship schemes of the Government.
In order to promote and encourage artisans in papier mache craft, as many as 25 master craftsmen have been conferred with UT Awards over the last 10 years. “Apart from this, J&K has been made proud by papier mache craft maestros like Fayaz Ahmad Jan and Iqbal Hussain Khan, who have been conferred with Padma Shri & Shilp Guru awards respectively in recognition of their contribution in promotion of the craft,” he added.
Referring to the Department’s initiative of Know Your Artisan, under its Soulful Kashmir brand promotion, campaign, the spokesman said that special representation is made for papier mache craft, which remains the most popular, along with walnut wood carving, in the non-textile craft sector.
Apart from this, the spokesman added that a large number of papier mache artisans are recommended to JKTPO for participation in various J&K and national trade fairs, including IITF at Bharat Mandapam, Suraj Kund Mela in Haryana, Gandhi Shilp Bazaar and other high-profile events.
Dwelling upon the export potential of papier mache products, the spokesman stated that in the last 10 years, artefacts worth ₹212.06 Cr have been exported to outside destinations from Kashmir. “These figures remain the highest in respect of non-textile crafts in Kashmir Division,” he added.
In order to ensure the transition of skill from the master to the budding artisans, the Department has instituted a flagship Karkhandar Scheme in the department. “The scheme focuses on preserving traditional crafts such as papier mache, walnut wood carving, silver filigree, carpet weaving, Kani shawl weaving, Khatamband, and others like Sozni, tapestry, and engraved copperware,” he added.
Identifying the uniqueness of papier mache craft, both in sakhta and naqashi, the Department has obtained a GI registration for papier mache crafts from GI registry Chennai. “Authorised GI users can avail the facility of testing and QR Code based labelling at PTQCC, CDI, Srinagar, which shall go a long way in penetrating newer markets both within and outside the country.
