Author: ValleyObserver

Categories
SPORTS

Jammu to host International Dangal, “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” championship

JAMMU, DECEMBER 18: The J&K Sports Council in collaboration with the J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association, is set to organise the International Dangal and “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title Championship, a first-of-its-kind event in the region aimed at promoting youth engagement, health and fitness while preserving the rich heritage of indigenous sports.
The championship will be held on 20th December 2025 here at M.A. Stadium and is expected to draw large public participation and widespread media attention.
Wrestling, popularly known as Dangal, Kushti or Pahalwani, is an integral part of the cultural legacy of Jammu, especially in rural and border belts where it has been nurtured for generations.
Preserving and promoting such traditional sports is essential not only to safeguard cultural identity but also to pass on values of discipline, strength, resilience and community bonding to the younger generation.
Through this championship, the stakeholders aim to revive this age-old sport by providing a modern, professional platform while retaining its traditional essence.
More than 50 national and international wrestlers are expected to participate in the grand event, including renowned athletes from countries such as Russia and Iran and other Asian countries along with top wrestlers from across India.
The championship, being organised with technical support from the Indian Style Wrestling Federation of India, is poised to showcase high-quality competition and elevate the standard of indigenous wrestling in the region.
The event will also serve as an effective platform to propagate key government social initiatives, particularly the “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan” and the ongoing war against drugs. By actively engaging youth in sports and physical fitness, the championship seeks to promote a healthy, disciplined and drug-free lifestyle, underlining the role of sports as a powerful tool for positive social change.
The Government of Jammu & Kashmir, through the Department of Youth Services and Sports alongside J&K Sports Council, continues to play a proactive role in strengthening sports infrastructure, encouraging traditional and modern sports alike, and creating opportunities for athletes at all levels. Such initiatives reflect the government’s broader vision of making Jammu & Kashmir a vibrant hub of national and international sports activities, while also boosting sports tourism and providing exposure to local talent.
In addition to open category bouts, the championship would introduce the prestigious “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title, to be contested exclusively by wrestlers above 85 kg.
The title winner will be awarded a cash prize of ₹50,000 along with traditional honours of Gurj (Gadda) and Patta, while the runner-up and other position holders will receive appropriate cash prizes. Around 50 wrestlers, supported by 15–20 officials, are expected to take part, with an anticipated audience of 10,000–15,000 spectators.
The general public is invited to witness this grand sporting spectacle at M.A. Stadium, Jammu, from 11:30 AM onwards on 20th December 2025. Entry to the event will be free for all.

Categories
BUSINESS

JKEDI Pulwama Concludes Fourth Batch of MDP under RAMP at Pampore Campus

PULWAMA, DECEMBER 18: Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) Pulwama today successfully concluded the fourth batch of the Management Development Programme (MDP) under the RAMP initiative at its main campus Pampore.
A total of 21 women participants completed the one-week training programme, aimed at strengthening managerial skills and nurturing entrepreneurial capabilities among aspiring women entrepreneurs.
The valedictory ceremony was attended by Nafia Nazir, Range Officer South Kashmir (JKEDI); Raiyees Manzoor, District Nodal Officer JKEDI Pulwama, and Iqra Yousuf, Block Programme Manager (NRLM) Pampore, who interacted with the trainees and encouraged them to pursue sustainable and innovative business ventures.
As part of the concluding activities, the trainees also participated in a special masterclass titled “From Vision to Valuation, a Masterclass on Smarter Capital and Sustainable Growth”, delivered by Khalid Wani, Founder One Capital, which provided valuable insights into strategic growth, funding, and long-term business sustainability.
The programme concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing appreciation for the practical exposure and guidance received during the training.

Categories
EDUCATION

Five-Day Teachers’ Training Program Held in Sonepah Zone

Taskeen Ali

Budgam, December 18: The Department of Education and Training of Anjuman-e-Shari Shiaan Jammu and Kashmir, under the patronage of Hujjat-ul-Islam wal Muslimeen Agha Syed Hasan Al-Moosavi Al-Safvi, organized a five-day Teachers’ Training Program for the instructors of the branches of Howzeh Jamia Babul Ilm Oriental College of Learning in the Sonepah Zone.

During the training program, teachers and instructors were provided with comprehensive guidance on the educational curriculum, modern teaching methodologies, and other essential academic and administrative matters. The objective of the program was to enhance the professional skills of educators and strengthen the overall teaching system of the institution.

At the conclusion of the program, Agha Syed Hasan Al-Moosavi Al-Safvi appreciated the dedication, sincerity, and commitment of the teachers and instructors.

Agha remarked that the passion, sense of responsibility, and devotion with which they are rendering their religious and educational services are truly commendable. He further expressed hope that the training program would significantly enhance the academic and practical capabilities of the teachers and play an effective role in raising the educational standards of the Howzeh Jamia Babul Ilm Oriental College of Learning branches.

Categories
NEWS

Prime Minister conferred with the Order of Oman

New Delhi, December 18: His Majesty Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik conferred upon Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi the ‘Order of Oman’ award for his exceptional contribution to India-Oman ties and his visionary leadership.

Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the age-old friendship between the two countries and called it a tribute to the warmth and affection between the 1.4 billion people of India and the people of Oman.

The conferment of the honour during the Prime Minister’s visit to Oman, coinciding with the completion of 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, imparted special significance to the occasion and to the Strategic Partnership.

Instituted in 1970 by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Order of Oman has been bestowed upon select global leaders in recognition of their contribution to public life and bilateral relations.

Categories
BUSINESS

Handicrafts Dept to celebrate Jashn-e-Chillai Kalan with iconic Pheran on Dec 20-21 at Kashmir Haat

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 18: As the Valley prepares to embrace ‘Chilla-i- Kalan, the 40-day period of intense winter beginning December 21, the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, shall host ‘Jashn-e-Chilla-i- Kalan, a vibrant celebration of Kashmiri heritage, coinciding with Pheran Day on December 21.

Shahribg details, a spokesman of the department stated that the two-day event, scheduled for December 20-21, at Kashmir Haat (Numaish Gah), here, will feature the dedicated stalls showcasing exquisite Kashmiri handicrafts, with a special focus on traditional Zari embroidery (tilla work) and Aari (hook) embroidery, timeless staples of Kashmiri craftsmanship often adorning the iconic Pheran. “Noted craftsmen from across the Valley have been invited to participate, offering LIVE demonstrations, display of hand-embroidered Pherans, Pashmina hawls, and other winter garments, offering opportunities for visitors to engage directly with these master artisans,” he added.

The spokesman further said the event aims to highlight the resilience of Kashmiri traditions during the harshest winter phase while promoting the warmth and elegance of the Pheran, Kashmir’s signature loose-fitting attire that provides comfort against the biting cold.

“The event will celebrate the cultural significance of Chilla-i-Kalan and Pheran Day, bringing together locals, tourists, and craft enthusiasts to experience the rich artistry that defines Kashmir. “Visitors can expect a festive atmosphere with stalls brimming with intricate zari and aari works, embodying the Valley’s enduring legacy of handloom and embroidery,” he said, while urging the general public to attend and support local artisans.

 

Categories
CRIME

J&K police intensifies crackdown on high-value drug trafficking; Cocaine worth over ₹10 crore recovered in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, December 17: In a decisive and proactive action against organised drug trafficking, J&K Police in Ganderbal has launched a focused targeting the procurement and sale of high-value narcotic substances such as Cocaine and Heroin, thereby striking a major blow to the drug networks operating in the region.

During a series of special naka checking operations conducted on 08-12-2025, Ganderbal police apprehended 01 drug peddler namely Mohd Irfan Bhat, son of Ghulam Nabi Bhat, resident of Kharbagh Wakura, Ganderbal. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 200/2025, under relevant sections of the NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Ganderbal, and further investigation was set into motion.

Considering the gravity of the offence and contacts of the accused, a special investigation team was constituted by SSP Ganderbal Shri Khalil Ahmad Poswal-JKPS, under the supervision of Addl. SP Ganderbal Shri Owaise Loun-JKPS, with a mandate to trace backward and forward linkages of suppliers involved in trafficking similar high-value narcotics. Investigating Officer of the case, SI Gulzar Hussain, (I/C PP Shadipora) has put in strenuous and sustained efforts to unearth the nexus of drugs.

Pursuant to Court-obtained search warrants, coordinated searches were conducted at multiple locations including Sumbal, Shadipora, Zakura, and other suspected places of drug concealment.

As a significant outcome of sustained investigation, the police team identified and detained one more notorious drug peddler, namely Maqsood Hussain Khan, son of Abdul Majeed Khan, resident of Hazratbal, Srinagar, A/P Gooripora, Sanat Nagar. During searches conducted at his rented accommodation in Gooripora, Sanat Nagar on 16/17-12-2025, Police recovered 02 packets of Cocaine-like substance weighing approximately 01 kilogram, valuing more than Rs.10 Crore in the international illicit drug market. Moreover, 01 vehicle, cell phones and other electronic gadgets were also seized.

In the instant case, in-depth investigation is underway to identify the actual source, supply chain, and inter-state/international linkages of this high-value narcotic substance. More arrests and recoveries are likely in the coming days.

J&K Police reiterates its zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and appeals to the public to cooperate by sharing any information related to drug abuse or peddling for a drug-free society.

Categories
BUSINESS

Handicrafts & Handloom Dept flags of artisans for participation in GI Mahotsav in New Delhi

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 16: In a major boost to promotion of GI registered crafts, Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, today flagged of a group of 06 artisans from Numaish Gah, here today, for participation in GI Mahotsav, scheduled to begin from December 18 till December 21, in Noida Haat, New Delhi.
The Mahotsav is designed to provide a robust national platform for GI artisans and sellers from across the country to exhibit their unique products, establish direct market linkages with buyers and celebrate country’s diverse culture and craft traditions.
In a press statement issued today, a spokesman of the department stated that the artisans shall represent Kashmir in Wagguv, Namda, Walnut Wood Carving, Crewel, Chainstitch and Kashmir tweed GI registered crafts in the trade fair, organized by Ministry of MSME in collaboration with PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Kashmir has 15 GI registered crafts, out of which 08 were registered by GI Registry Chennai in April this year which include the languishing crafts like Wagguv, Namda and Gabba.
The spokesman further stated that the artisans shall represent Kashmir’s globally acclaimed handmade products, reflecting the region’s exceptional craftsmanship, authenticity and centuries old cultural legacy. “Their participation is expected to create new market opportunities, promote GI awareness and strengthen the recognition of Kashmiri handicrafts at the National level,” he added.
While flagging off the artisans, the Department reiterated its commitment to preserving, promoting and protecting Kashmir’s traditional crafts and empowering artisans through exposure to national platforms, improved market access and institutional support.

Categories
EDUCATION

DJMC IUST Organises Programme with Economic Times Editor

Awantipora, December 15: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), under its department outreach programme organised an interaction with Hakeem Irfan Rashid, Senior Assistant Editor, Political Bureau, The Economic Times, and recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism.

The programme, themed “Journalism in Times of an Evolving Media Landscape,” featured deliberations on the rapid transformation of the media ecosystem, the impact of digital technologies and algorithms on newsrooms, and the increasing importance of credibility in an era marked by information overload.

Welcoming the resource person, Head, DJMC, Dr. Rabia Noor, underscored the growing relevance of ethical, responsible, and critically informed journalism in a rapidly evolving media environment. Emphasising that journalism is fundamentally an ethical profession, he urged students to become critical thinkers and media-literate individuals before entering the field. Irfan, who is also a World Press Institute Fellow at the United States, advised aspiring journalists to identify their choices and privileges, remain disciplined, continuously train, upgrade skills and adapt to emerging platforms, “as journalism is constantly evolving.”

He stressed that stories must serve the larger public good, and cautioned students to be especially careful while navigating social media and algorithm-driven platforms. An eminent journalist known for his incisive political reporting and impactful storytelling, Irfan also shared insights from his professional journey, offering students a nuanced understanding of newsroom realities, political reporting, and the ethical challenges faced by journalists today. The program aimed to bridge classroom learning with industry practice witnessed active participation of the students, scholars and faculty members of the department.

Categories
SPORTS

Police Organises Shaheed Humayun Muzamil T-20 Cricket Tournament In Anantnag

Anantnag, December 15: Police in Anantnag organised the Shaheed Humayun Muzamil T-20 Cricket Tournament under the Civic Action Programme (CAP) at Government Degree College (GDC) Anantnag, aimed at promoting sports, discipline, and positive engagement among youth.
The tournament is witnessing participation from eight teams. The inaugural match was played between GDC Anantnag and Royal King Boon, which generated great enthusiasm among players and spectators. GDC Anantnag won the inaugural match convincingly by 52 runs.
The initiative reflects J&K Police’s commitment to encouraging youth towards healthy and constructive activities, strengthening police-public relations, and fostering a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Police reiterated its resolve to continue organizing such community-oriented and youth-centric programmes under the Civic Action Programme.

 

Categories
KASHMIR

District Admin Budgam Continues Crackdown on Illegal Brick Kilns; Three Units Demolished in Chadoora

DC reiterates zero tolerance towards Environmental Violations, Illegal Land Use

BUDGAM, DECEMBER 13: Under the leadership and overall supervision of the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, the District Administration Budgam today continued its intensified drive against illegal brick kilns operating in violation of environmental norms and land-use regulations.
In continuation of the ongoing enforcement drive three illegal brick kilns were demolished in the villages of Behrampora and Kultreh of Tehsil Chadoora of District Budgam.These units were operating without requisite permissions and were found to be causing severe environmental pollution, posing health risks to nearby residents, and causing irreversible damage to fertile agricultural land.
The District Administration has made it clear that no illegal brick kiln will be allowed to function at the cost of public health, environmental safety, and agricultural sustainability.
All brick kiln owners operating unlawfully have been strictly advised to dismantle such structures voluntarily, failing which stringent legal and coercive action will be initiated as per law.
The demolition drive was supervised by the SDM Chadoora,Tehsildar Chadoora,SHO Chadoora, and other concerned officials.
Civil society members of Budgam and local residents widely appreciated the proactive action of the District Administration, terming it a significant step towards safeguarding public health and protecting the district’s fragile environment. They urged the administration to continue such enforcement drives across all tehsils.
The District Administration Budgam remains steadfast in its commitment to eliminating pollution, and sustained, coordinated action will continue across the district against unauthorized brick kiln operations to safeguard environmental integrity and protect the agricultural resources of Budgam.

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