Category: KASHMIR

ANANTNAG, May 14: Based on credible inputs regarding the sale of “Basel Seed Drink” of various flavours being marketed as an imported product under the “American” brand, the Food Safety Department, Anantnag conducted raids at multiple locations across the district and seized 150 cases of the product worth approximately Rs 3,56,400.
The seizures were made from various Food Business Operators (FBOs), including M/S Aayet Trading Company, General Bus Stand Anantnag; M/S Hamas, Bypass Road Anantnag; and M/S Valley Traders & Distributors, Pushoo Market Anantnag.
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the concerned FBOs had procured the products from M/S Krusha Premium Industries Pvt. Ltd., Sonipat Haryana; M/S G.S. Food Labs, Pooth Khurd, New Delhi; and M/S Aamantn, Chowadi Fowara Chowk, Jammu. During scrutiny of the labels, serious discrepancies were observed. The products were labelled as “American” Brand Basel Seed Drink, Product of Thailand, purportedly manufactured by Golden and SUN EXPORT, Bangkok, Thailand, without mandatory importer details on the label. Furthermore, the products were found carrying a fake FSSAI license number.
Investigation conducted so far also suggests that the product, despite being marketed as an imported commodity, is suspected to have been manufactured locally. The seized stock has been taken into custody for further legal and analytical proceedings under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Samples of the product have also been lifted for detailed laboratory analysis to ascertain its safety and quality standards.
The department has initiated a comprehensive investigation to identify all individuals and entities involved in the alleged and illegal manufacture/distribution of the product.
The Department of Food Safety reiterates its commitment towards safeguarding public health and advises consumers to remain cautious while purchasing food products carrying suspicious or misleading labels.

Budgam, April 16: MLA Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mosvi on Thursday expressed profound grief and sorrow over the tragic demise of Anjali Choudhary, a fourth-semester student of Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, who lost her life in a road accident near Udhampur this morning.

The incident occurred when the student was travelling with fellow students on a picnic to Patnitop.

Expressing his condolences, the MLA said he was deeply saddened by the untimely loss of the young student, terming the incident as heartbreaking and tragic.

“I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic demise of Anjali Choudhary, a bright young student, who lost her life in an unfortunate road accident near Udhampur while travelling with fellow students to Patnitop,” he said.

He extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, and the entire college fraternity during this difficult time.

“My heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and the entire college fraternity. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.

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.

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.

PULWAMA, JANUARY 03: The Committee on Estimates of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly today visited various ongoing infrastructure and industrial project sites at Sampora, Pampore and Lasipora in Pulwama district to assess progress on works and review facilities on the ground.

The committee was led by Advocate Shamima Firdous, MLA Habba Kadal, along with Ghulam Mohiuddin Mir, MLA Rajpora.

The visit was accompanied by Director Industries and Commerce, Khalid Majeed; Joint Director Industries and Commerce, Zahoor Ahmad Magray; General Manager, DIC Pulwama and other senior officers of the Industries and Commerce Department.

During the visit to Industrial Estate Lasipora, the delegation interacted with the industrial unit holders and reviewed the issues related to infrastructure development, power supply, road connectivity and other essential industrial facilities.

The industrialists apprised the committee of their concerns and put forth suggestions for further improvement of the industrial ecosystem.

The Committee assured the stakeholders that all genuine issues raised during the interaction would be taken up with the concerned authorities for timely redressal, with a focus on strengthening the industrial growth and development in Pulwama district.

Baramulla, December 26: On 25 December 2025, a fisherman identified as Nazir Ahmad Latoo son of Ghulam Mohammad Latoo resident of Shaltang/Zogyar, reported to Police Station Sheeri, Baramulla, that he had recovered a stone sculpture while fishing in River Jhelum. The sculpture was immediately brought to the notice of police authorities and kept in safe custody at Police Station Sheri.
Subsequently, on 26 December 2025, following due procedure and official directions from the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, J&K, the said stone sculpture—identified as Goddess Durga—was formally handed over by Baramulla Police to officials of the Archaeology Wing, Srinagar through a proper handover/takeover process.
J&K Police reiterates its commitment to the protection of cultural heritage and urges citizens to promptly inform authorities about any such discoveries of historical or archaeological importance.

Visits Sheikh-Ul-Alam Degree College Budgam, announces college bus from CDF

Budgam, December 18: MLA Budgam Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi on Wednesday called for “rationalisation of the existing reservation policy, saying it should ensure equal opportunities for all sections of society”.

Mehdi made the remarks during a visit to Sheikh-Ul-Alam Degree College in Budgam, where he reviewed ongoing development works and assessed the facilities available to students.

During the visit, the legislator inspected lecture halls, the library and other academic spaces, and interacted with faculty members, staff and students to understand their concerns and suggestions. He said quality education in rural areas is important and asked the college administration to focus on improving academic standards, infrastructure and student activities.

While interacting with students, Mehdi said “the present reservation framework was adversely affecting Kashmiri students.”

He said “laws should not result in discrimination and added that he would raise the issue of reservation rationalisation to ensure equal rights for all communities.”

The MLA also announced that a college bus would be provided from his Constituency Development Fund to facilitate students’ commute. He said he would continue to work with students and the administration to improve access to educational resources in the Budgam area. College officials briefed the MLA on the progress of ongoing projects and requirements for further development.

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.

Says world-class infrastructure will redefine winter tourism in J&K

GULMARG, DECEMBER 13: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today dedicated a series of major tourism infrastructure projects worth over ₹17 crore to the public at Gulmarg and its adjoining areas, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a premier global winter tourism destination.

The Chief Minister inaugurated Asia’s longest ski drag lift, measuring 726 metres, at Kongdoori at a cost of ₹3.65 crore. He also inaugurated conservation works of a water body at Kongdoori, completed at a cost of ₹0.90 crore. At Apharwat, the Chief Minister inaugurated the rotating conference hall, constructed by JKCCC at a cost of ₹0.86 crore, adding a unique attraction to Gulmarg’s high-altitude tourism infrastructure.

The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for fencing of the Gulmarg Golf Course, a project worth ₹4.77 crore, aimed at protecting and enhancing one of the region’s iconic tourism assets. Through online inaugurations and foundation ceremonies, he also dedicated several important projects, including the office building of the Gulmarg Development Authority at a cost of ₹0.82 crore, reconstruction of Hut No. 2 costing ₹0.64 crore, construction of the Devri path along the Alambal roadside at ₹2.62 crore, and development of a dedicated car parking facility with an estimated cost of ₹2.78 crore.

In addition, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Integrated Skiing Training & Adventure Tourism Centre at Gulmarg and launched integrated ski training courses to strengthen professional winter sports training facilities. These projects have been executed by the Gulmarg Development Authority and the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC).

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Minister said Gulmarg remains the crown jewel of Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism landscape and that sustained investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure is essential to unlocking its full potential. “These initiatives are not just infrastructure additions but strategic investments that will create year-round tourism opportunities, generate employment for local youth and elevate Gulmarg to international standards,” he said.

Congratulating the Department of Tourism and JKCCC for the timely completion of these ambitious projects, the Chief Minister appreciated their professionalism and coordinated efforts. He said the newly inaugurated ski drag lift and training facilities would give a major boost to winter sports and professional skiing, while the revolving conference hall at Apharwat would significantly enhance visitor experience. “Our vision is to make Gulmarg a global hub for winter sports while ensuring conservation of its fragile ecology and natural beauty,” he added.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa, Director Tourism and Managing Director JKCCC Syed Qamar Sajad, senior officers, tourism stakeholders and prominent tourism players from across Kashmir were present on the occasion.

TASKEEN ALI

Srinagar, December 11: All Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association and General Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) Molvi Imran Raza Ansari on Thursday extended warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Youm-e-Wiladat of Hazrat Fatima Zehra (SA). The day marks the blessed birth of the revered daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims across the world.

In his message, Ansari described Hazrat Fatima Zehra (SA) as the embodiment of purity, modesty, piety, and unmatched devotion to Allah. He said her extraordinary virtues, including compassion for the needy, commitment to justice, and courage in the face of hardship, continue to serve as a timeless source of guidance.

“Hazrat Fatima Zehra (SA) is a beacon of light for all humanity. Her life teaches us values of patience, kindness, and unwavering faith. On this sacred day, we must reflect upon her teachings and strive to emulate the character she displayed throughout her life,” Ansari said.

He urged people to strengthen unity, compassion, and mutual respect within society, stating that the best way to honor the legacy of Hazrat Fatima Zehra (SA) is by promoting peace and helping those in need.

Ansari also prayed for lasting peace, prosperity, and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir and across the Muslim world. He expressed hope that the occasion would bring blessings to every home and inspire people to walk on the path of righteousness.