Author: ValleyObserver

Categories
BUSINESS

Director Agriculture Kashmir inaugurates Exhibition cum Awareness Programme for GI-Tagged Saffron

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 25: Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah, today inaugurated an Exhibition cum Awareness and Promotion Programme dedicated to GI-tagged Kashmir Saffron at the Agriculture Complex, Lalmandi, Srinagar.
The event was organized by the Spices Board of India, Regional Office, Srinagar (Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India). It aimed to showcase the exceptional qualities of Kashmir saffron, create greater awareness among stakeholders, and promote its international market potential following the award of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
In his inaugural address, the Director highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the Department of Agriculture for the promotion and development of GI-tagged saffron. He reaffirmed the department’s full commitment to providing technical support, guidance, and assistance to saffron farmers to improve productivity, enhance production, and strengthen market linkages. He said that Saffron is our niche heritage crop, and Kashmir has the proud distinction of producing one of the finest and most premium saffrons
in the world. The GI tag has opened new global opportunities for our saffron, ensuring its authenticity and commanding higher value in international markets, he added. He called for a unified and collective approach among all stakeholders to further strengthen and promote the saffron sector.
The Director emphasized that the GI tag is playing a key role in enabling saffron growers to receive remunerative prices, thereby ensuring economic sustainability and long-term viability of saffron cultivation in the region.
Sartaj Ahmad Shah directed all concerned officers to ensure proactive outreach so that every saffron farmer is fully aware of the departmental schemes, programmes, and support measures available for the advancement and modernization of the saffron industry.
Earlier, the Director visited various exhibition stalls set up by the India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC),Spices Board of India, and private entrepreneurs. These stalls displayed saffron products, cultivation practices, post-harvest techniques, and value-addition opportunities.
The programme was attended by representatives from the Spices Board of India, officers from IIKSTC and the Agriculture Department, and saffron growers.
This initiative reflects the strong collaboration between the Department of Agriculture Kashmir and the Spices Board of India to protect, preserve, and globally promote Kashmir’s iconic saffron while empowering farmers through better awareness, improved market access, and sustainable development practices.

Categories
JAMMU

Kishtwar ALC addresses media persons on Labour Card benefits, welfare schemes

KISHTWAR, FEBRUARY 17: The Assistant Labour Commissioner, Kishtwar, Mamta Sudarshan today addressed the media persons and highlighted a series of welfare and developmental schemes introduced by the UT Government for registered labour card holders across the district.

Speaking to the media persons, the Assistant Labour Commissioner said that these schemes aim to provide comprehensive support to labourers through financial assistance, educational aid, marriage assistance, social security benefits and several other welfare measures. She emphasized that the initiatives are specifically designed to uplift the working class and enhance their socio-economic well-being. “These government-backed schemes are instrumental in empowering labourers and strengthening their economic stability,” she said.

The ALC further appealed to all eligible labour card holders to come forward and avail themselves of the available benefits. She informed that multiple schemes are operational under various categories, offering significant support to the labour community of the district.

The ALC urged the public to avail advantage of the Labour Department’s welfare initiatives to ensure sustained progress and prosperity for the working class in Kishtwar.

Categories
BUSINESS

Lieutenant Governor Orders Reopening of more Tourist Spots in Jammu Kashmir

11 tourist spots in Kashmir Division and 3 tourist spots in Jammu Division to be reopened immediately

3 tourist spots – Gurez, Athwatoo of Bandipora District and Bangus of Kupwara District in Kashmir Division and 1 tourist spot in Jammu Division- Ramkund of Ramban District will be reopened once snow gets cleared

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 16: After a thorough security review and discussion, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday has ordered the reopening of more tourist spots in Kashmir and Jammu Divisions, which were temporarily closed as precautionary measures.
11 tourist spots in Kashmir Division- Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam; Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Anantnag; Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian; Astanpora and Tulip Garden in Srinagar; Thajwas Glacier and Hung Park in Ganderbal and Wullar/ Watlab in Baramulla to be reopened immediately.
Three tourist spots in Jammu Division- Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar to be reopened immediately.
Three sites in Kashmir Division- Gurez and Athwatoo in Bandipora, Bangus in Kupwara and One site in Jammu Division- Ramkund in Ramban will be reopened once snow gets cleared.

Categories
CRIME

J&K Police in Ganderbal unearthed 209-crores fake online investment scam; arrested MBBS doctor of Haryana alongwith 08 others

Ganderbal, February 16: Jammu and Kashmir Police achieved success in working out a transnational Multi Crore Online Investment Scam which used phishing/fake trading platforms.
Based upon complaint lodged by Sh. Firdous Ahmad Mir son of Mohd Yousuf Mir resident of Safapora Ganderbal, FIR No. 08/2026 under section 3(5), 61(2), 316 (4), 318, 111 BNS, 66-C IT Act was registered at Police Station Ganderbal to investigate the allegations of identity theft and cheating by a gang of online fraudsters. In this regard, SSP Ganderbal Shri Khalil Ahmad Poswal-JKPS constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and associated subject matter experts as part of the team.
Strenuous efforts of Police in terms of collection of evidences by way of arrest of suspects, house searches, record from Banks and other departments revealed that there are online investment websites on social media/google like paisavault.com etc. which by way of allurement deceive/cheat the general public and once the victims start investing into the fake platform of coins trading, their amount is diverted into local bank accounts of persons hailing from Budgam, Srinagar, Ganderbal, Baramulla and multiple other places. All such accounts are under control of fraudsters who immediately transfer invested amount into other accounts outside Jammu and Kashmir by way of multiple layering and even outside the country so as to prevent detection of trail of money.
Main handler of entire nexus has been found Mr. Ekant Yogdutt @ Dr. Morphine R/O Hisar Haryana who has learnt these techniques while doing MBBS degree in Philippines and has multiple links with Chinese nationals. The main team leader conspired with mischievous elements of Kashmir region viz. Mohd Ibrahim Shah @ Yawer R/O Ganderbal, Nasir Ahmad Ganie S/O Abdul Hamid Ganie R/O Ganderbal, Maqsood Ahmad @ Dr. Albert R/O Budgam, Tanveer Ahmad @ Dr. Martin R/O Budgam, Tawseef Ahmad Mir (Govt. Teacher) R/O Baramulla, Khurshid Ahmad R/O Nunner, Ishfaq Ahmad R/O Safapora who worked as regional heads and account mobilizers. These local level fraudsters approach below poverty line (BPL) account holders for providing their account and ATM cards with the promise to provide 8-10 thousand rupees per month. Involvement of Bank employees also emerged who are involved in providing QR code of accounts which are uploaded on fake websites.
These fraudsters have established telegram channels and groups where they regularly upload new QR codes. It is worth mentioning once heavy transactions occur into such accounts, upon receipt of complaint, the cyber units across the country freeze such accounts but the fraudsters promptly upload new QR codes.
So far, Police have collected details of 835 accounts and verified transactions of 290 accounts wherein 209 crores have been received from various investors across India and upon complete verification the amount is likely to cross 400 crore.
The main accused Ekant Yogdutt @ Dr. Morphine has been arrested by Ganderbal Police while returning from China at International Airport Delhi and other 08 accused from various parts of Kashmir region. Further investigation is being conducted to trace out trail of entire money and to attach property of accused persons.
Police have warned the general public not to fall prey to the fake websites who promise heavy returns and also not to rent out their bank accounts to any individual against the promise of meagre monetary consideration. The victims/aggrieved persons can lodge their complaint on the portal on cybercrime.gov.in and tollfree Number 1039.

Categories
KASHMIR

Bandipora–Gurez Road thrown open; Vehicles safely reach Gurez

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.

Categories
JAMMU

Infrastructure for 200 e-Buses underway in Jammu & Srinagar

CS Reviews Implementation of PM eBus Sewa

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.

Categories
EDUCATION

Govt College of Education Srinagar secures NCTE Recognition for 4-Year ITEP Programmes

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.

Categories
KASHMIR

District Administration Bandipora observes Safer Internet Day; Cyber awareness workshop organised

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.

Categories
CRIME

J&K Police Exposes QR Code Fraud In Awantipora; Accused Arrested

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.

Categories
CRIME

J&K Police in Ganderbal Secure 20-Year Jail Term in POCSO Case

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.

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