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BUSINESS

President Of India Presents National Handicrafts Awards For The Years 2023 And 2024

Handicrafts are not only a part of our cultural identity but also an important source of livelihood: President Droupadi Murmu

New Delhi , December 9: The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented National Handicrafts Awards for the years 2023 and 2024 in New Delhi today (December 9, 2025).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that art reflects our memories of the past, experiences of the present, and aspirations for the future. Humans have been expressing their emotions through painting or sculpture since ancient times. Art connects people to culture. Art also connects people with each other.

The President said that if our centuries-old handicraft tradition has remained vibrant and preserved, it is due to the commitment of our artisans, generation after generation. Our artisans have adapted their art and tradition to changing times, while keeping the original spirit alive. They have preserved the fragrance of the country’s soil in each of their artistic creations.

The President said that handicrafts are not only a part of our cultural identity but also an important source of livelihood. This sector employs over 3.2 million people in the country. It is noteworthy that most of the people who derive employment and income from handicrafts live in rural or remote areas. This sector promotes inclusive development by decentralizing employment and income.

The President said that promoting handicrafts is important for social empowerment, as this sector has traditionally provided support to people from weaker sections. Handicrafts not only provide a means of livelihood to artisans, but their art also gives them recognition and respect in society. She stated that the development of this sector will also strengthen women’s empowerment, as women comprise 68 percent of the workforce in this sector.

The President said that the handicraft industry’s greatest strength is its reliance on natural and local resources. This industry is eco-friendly and has a low-carbon footprint. Today, the need for an eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle is being emphasized worldwide. In such a context, this sector can make a significant contribution to sustainability.

The President was happy to note that the GI tag is strengthening the identity of the Indian handicraft products across the world. She urged all stakeholders to work towards obtaining a GI tag for their unique products. She said that the GI tag will give their products a unique identity and enhance their credibility at the national and international level. She underlined that the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative is also strengthening the international recognition of our regional handicraft products.

The President said that on the strength of the knowledge, dedication and hard work of our artisans accumulated over generations, Indian handicraft products have established their identity across the world. She underlined that the demand for Indian handicrafts offers immense potential for growth. She said that this sector offers excellent opportunities for young entrepreneurs and designers to establish enterprises.

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KASHMIR

Div Com Kashmir reviews ATR on Stray Animal issues as per SC Directions

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 09: To ensure effective implementation of the directions issued by the Supreme Court of India in the Suo Moto Writ Petition “City Hounded by Strays, Kids Pay Price” vs State of Andhra Pradesh, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Tuesday chaired Divisional level Committee meeting with Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, and divisional heads of all concerned departments to review the Action Taken Reports submitted by respective officers and agencies.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner called for the immediate constitution and registration of Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) by all Deputy Commissioners.
He directed departments to conduct a survey and mapping of government offices and establishments to prevent the entry of stray animals by ensuring proper fencing and deployment of chowkidars.
Garg also instructed departments to nominate nodal officers for collecting data from institutions and establishments regarding compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions.
The Div Com further directed the Director Health Services, Principal GMC Srinagar, Director RDD, Director Colleges, and Director School Education to launch extensive IEC campaigns to raise awareness among the public and students about first aid after dog bites and the essential follow-up treatment measures.
The Director of Animal Husbandry was instructed to run similar IEC campaigns on the protocols for adopting pets.
Regarding the availability of essential medical supplies, the Div Com asked the Health Department to ensure adequate stock of Anti-Rabies Vaccines in all health institutions.
He also called for the identification of land in each district for setting up Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres and facilities for the rehabilitation of stray animals.
Additionally, Garg urged SMC officials to regulate waste management dumps, which often attract stray dogs and pose risks to children and the elderly.

Categories
SPORTS

Lieutenant Governor inaugurates 6th edition of Kashmiri Pandit Premier League (KPPL) in Jammu

LG calls upon players, youth to dream big and define clear goals in life and make them reality with hard work, dedication and perseverance

The power of sports can transform individuals, society and the nation: LG Sinha

We must believe in ourselves, promote shared values, embrace the challenges and stay focussed to foster national identity and unity: LG

JAMMU, DECEMBER 8: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday called upon the players and youth to dream big and define clear goals in life and make them reality with hard work, dedication and perseverance.
“The power of sports can transform individuals, society and the nation. We must believe in ourselves, promote shared values, embrace the challenges and stay focussed to foster national identity and unity,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of 6th edition of Kashmiri Pandit Premier League (KPPL) at M.A Stadium, Jammu.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations and best wishes to all the participating players and everyone associated with the Kashmiri Pandit Premier League.
The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Government of India and UT Administration is committed to the welfare of Kashmiri Pandit Community.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization, for its dedicated efforts towards promotion of sports.
He asked the members of the Organization to partner with schools and government departments in other states/UTs to connect with youth.
He further emphasised on developing a long-term empowerment roadmap and integrating skill training and career preparation for the youth from Kashmiri Pandit Community, building on the success of initiatives like the LG Special Camp.
Shri Ashish Kachroo, Vice President, Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization; Shri Vinay Koul, General Secretary; Shri Ankur Bagati, Coordinator; Shri P N Tickoo, Shri Deepak Raina, Shri Raman Raina and other members of the organisation, prominent citizens and sportspersons were present.
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Dr. Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) J&K; Ms Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council and senior officials of Civil and Police Administration.

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KASHMIR

DC Baramulla leads Observance of Armed Forces Flag Day in District

BARAMULLA, DECEMBER 08: Armed Forces Flag Day was observed with dignity and gratitude in Baramulla, with Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, leading the district in honouring the nation’s soldiers, veterans, and Veer Naris.
The observance reflected the district’s longstanding respect for the armed forces and its commitment to supporting their welfare through the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.
On the occasion, Zila Sainik Welfare Officer, Colonel Javed (Sena Medal), visited the office of the Deputy Commissioner along with Senior Wing NCC cadets and presented the Armed Forces Flag Day lapel pin to Minga Sherpa.
The gesture marked the district’s solidarity with the armed forces community and served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service personnel.
The Deputy Commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s support for the welfare of serving personnel, veterans, and their families. He also made a personal contribution to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund, encouraging citizens to come forward in support of the cause.
Armed Forces Flag Day, observed annually across the country on 7th December since 1949, is dedicated to honouring the bravery and sacrifices of the Army, Navy, and Air Force and to mobilising resources for their rehabilitation and welfare.
In a show of collective commitment, Additional Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Syed Altaf Hussain, also participated in the observance and contributed to the fund, further strengthening the district’s message of respect and responsibility toward the families of martyrs and veterans.

Categories
HEALTH

Sakeena Itoo conducts extensive inspection of SMHS Hospital Srinagar

Reviews healthcare facilities, medical supplies, patient care

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 08: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today carried out an extensive inspection of SMHS Hospital Srinagar, during which the Minister took comprehensive review of patient care services, infrastructure, availability of essential medicines and other facilities at the hospital.

During the visit, the Minister interacted with Principal, faculty members and medical staff to assess on-ground requirements and address concerns related to service delivery. She visited the emergency wing, OPD sections, diagnostic units, and in-patient wards, directing hospital authorities to ensure timely treatment, cleanliness, and streamlined patient flow.

The Minister also interacted with patients and their attendants and took feedback from them about the quality of medical care services being provided at the hospital.

While reviewing medicine stocks and pharmacy operations, the Minister emphasized the need for uninterrupted availability of essential drugs, diagnostics, and life-saving equipment. She instructed officials to strengthen supply chain monitoring and ensure that no patient faces any inconvenience.

The Minister further stressed on the importance of modernized facilities, proper equipment maintenance, and enhanced support services like sanitation and patient facilitation desks in view of winter months.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to improving public health services, the Minister said that periodic inspections would continue to ensure accountability and efficient functioning of hospitals. She appreciated the dedication of frontline medical staff and encouraged them to maintain high standards of care.

Principal GMC Srinagar, Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah; HoDs of various specialities, faculty members and other officers were also present during the visit of the Minister.

 

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JAMMU

LG Manoj Sinha Interacts with Armed Forces Veterans in Jammu

JAMMU, DECEMBER 08: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday interacted with veterans of Armed Forces at Lok Bhavan Jammu.
He expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces and paid tributes to the martyrs. He stated that the nation will always remain indebted to the sacrifices made by the soldiers.
The Lieutenant Governor made generous contributions towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said the Armed Forces Flag Day, which was observed on 07th December 2025, reminds the citizens of the nation that the well-being of the Armed Forces Personnel is the collective responsibility of the nation and every individual must contribute to support the Armed Forces who safeguard the integrity of the Nation.
The Lieutenant Governor appealed to the people to contribute towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. He said that the fund will be used in the welfare of service personnel, their families, and ex-servicemen and their families.
Brig. Pankaj Chib (Retd), Director Sainik Welfare Department; Shri Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; veterans and officials of Sainik Welfare Department including Col BS Sambyal, (Retd.), Col Manjit Singh Bhau (Retd.) Wg Cdr Tirath Singh (Retd.), Capt (IN) Kapil Sharma (Retd.), Shri Tanvir Singh, Shri Pawan Anand, Shri Jagbir Singh, Shri Subash Chander and Ms Anshu Dogra were present.

Categories
NEWS

Kashmiri Poet Yousuf Jahangeer Selected for Prasar Bharati’s National Symposium of Poets 2026

New Delhi, December 8: Renowned Kashmiri poet, storyteller, and critic Yousuf Jahangeer has been chosen to represent the Kashmiri language at the prestigious National Symposium of Poets 2026, organized by Prasar Bharati on the eve of Republic Day.
Akashvani has selected one poet from each of the 22 scheduled Indian languages for what is being hailed as the world’s largest poetic symposium. The complete list of poets and their translators was officially released by Prasar Bharati today.
Yousuf Jahangeer’s widely acclaimed poem Rooh Te Raaz (The Soul and the Secret) will be featured in the national broadcast. A celebrated literary figure with seventeen published books, Jahangeer is known for writing seamlessly in Kashmiri, Urdu, and English. He will be accompanied by noted translator Dr Upendra Raina during the symposium.
The grand event is being recorded this month in New Delhi and will be aired at 10 pm on Republic Day eve (January 25, 2026) through the National Hook-Up of All India Radio, reaching listeners across the country. Akashvani Srinagar will simultaneously broadcast the complete programme in Kashmiri, ensuring the poetic richness of the valley reaches every household in Jammu & Kashmir.
The National Symposium of Poets 2026 promises to be a historic celebration of India’s linguistic diversity and literary heritage on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day.

Categories
CRIME

Zero Tolerance for Stunt Biking

J&K Police register FIR in Shopian over dangerous stunt biking

Shopian, December 07: J&K Police has taken cognizance of a stunt biking incident reported from Pehlipoora area of Shopian. In this regard, FIR No. 263/2025 has been registered under Sections 281, 125 of BNS and 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The involved motorcycle has been seized and further investigation is underway.

The accused rider, Sahil Farooq Sheikh son of Farooq Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Pehlipoora, Shopian, was found indulging in dangerous stunt biking on a public road, thereby endangering his own life as well as the safety of other road users. Such activities are unlawful and will be dealt with strictly under the relevant provisions of law.

J&K Police urges all citizens, especially the youth, to refrain from stunt biking, rash driving, and all forms of traffic violations. Public roads are meant for safe commuting, not stunts, and such behaviour poses a serious risk to community safety. J&K Police remains committed to ensuring safe roads and disciplined traffic movement across the district. Strict action shall continue against all violators.

Categories
KASHMIR

Armed Forces Flag Day: Div Com Kashmir pays homage to Armed forces

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 07: On the occasion of Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD), a programme was organized at the Sainik Bhawan, Srinagar to honour the martyrs and men in uniform who voluntarily fought and continue to safeguard the country’s honour.

The program was attended by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg who on the occasion held interaction with the veterans and assured all support from the civil administration towards welfare of Ex-Servicemen, War Widows and their families.

The Ex-Servicemen community expressed gratitude to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir for the initiatives taken for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen and Widows.

While paying homage to the extreme sacrifices and services of Armed forces, the Div Com said that soldiers are guardians of the nation who protect its citizens by sacrificing a lot of things in their lives.

He said it becomes the duty of every citizen to not only show admiration for the martyrs and the living heroes but also to their families who have been a crucial part of their sacrifice.

Apart from Govt. measures, the AFFD highlights the collective duty of citizens to make volunteer contribution towards providing care, support, rehabilitation and financial aid. ‘Flag Day’ brings to the forefront the commitment of looking after Veer Naris, disabled soldiers and families of martyrs.

Categories
KASHMIR

Aasra Foundation Kashmir Unveils Annual Wall Calendar-2026

SJ MOSVI

Srinagar, December 7: Aasra Foundation Kashmir on Sunday released its eye-catching Annual Wall Calendar-2026, themed on the noble teachings of Aiama Tahireen (A.S.), at a special function organised at the Foundation’s Head Office, Auqaf Complex, Alamgari Bazar, Srinagar. The simple yet graceful ceremony was attended by the organisation’s functionaries and well-wishers.

In an official handout, Bashir Ahmad Alamgir, General Secretary, Aasra Foundation Kashmir, said, “During the event, the Foundation highlighted its significance and meticulous efforts to determine accurate Nimaz timings (Fiqa Jafria) for Srinagar and adjoining areas.”

He further added, “To address this, Aasra Foundation constituted an Expert Committee comprising specialists in Geography and Meteorology as well as respected religious scholars. The committee examined scientifically authenticated parameters—such as sunrise and sunset timings, solar altitude, twilight duration, and geographical coordinates—while simultaneously following the guidance of competent religious authorities.”

“This harmonious blend of scientific methodology and religious principles enabled the preparation of a precise and authoritative Nimaz timetable, which now forms an essential component of the Calendar-2026”.

The Foundation noted that the release of the Calendar-2026 symbolizes not only the conveyance of a spiritual message but also a sincere, research-driven effort to provide the community with clarity and authenticity.

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