PAMPORE, NOVEMBER 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today laid the foundation stone for the Automated Testing Station at Pampore, marking a significant step toward enhancing road safety and strengthening the transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
The ceremony was attended by Minister for Transport Satish Sharma, MLA Pampore Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi, Secretary Transport Department Avny Lavasa, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Dr Basharat Qayoom, Managing Director J&K Road Transport Corporation A.R. War, and other senior officers and officials concerned.
The establishment of the Automated Testing Station is aimed at ensuring scientific and reliable vehicle fitness assessment, reducing manual intervention, and promoting safer mobility across the region.
Baramulla, November 19: Continuing its drive against social crimes, J&K Police in Baramulla arrested 12 gamblers and seized stake money along with playing cards & Vehicles from their possession.
Acting on specific information regarding gambling activities in the orchards at Check Tappar, a police party of Police Station Kreeri headed by SDPO Kreeri raided the specific spot and apprehended the 12 gamblers. They have been identified as Khursheed Ahmad Dar son of Ab. Aziz Dar, Shabir Ahmad Wani son of Ab. Ahad Wani, Ab. Hamid Ahanger son of Khazir Mohammad and Waheed Ahmad Najar son of Gh. Mohammad Najar all residents of Hajin and Mehraj Deen Sofi son of Mohd. Yusuf Sofi resident of Narbal Sozeith Budgam, Mehraj Deen Para son of Mohd. Shafi Parra resident of Pattan, Bilal Ahmad Dar son of Ab. Ahad Dar resident of Sopore Sher Colony, Javeed Ahmad Changa son of Mohd. Altaf Changa resident of Sopore, Mohd. Yousuf Baba son of Ghulam Deen Baba resident of Baramulla, Manzoor Ahmad Dar son of Gh. Ahmad Dar resident of Kupwara, Manzoor Ahmad Sheikh son of Ab. Rehman Sheikh resident of Sadarkoot, Bandipora and Shabir Ahmad Wani son of Mohd. Akbar Wani resident of SK Bala, Bandipora.
Officers have seized stake money of ₹1,55,000/- and playing cards & 02 Alto cars, and 01 scooty from their possession. They have been arrested and a case FIR No. 87/ 2025, under relevant sections Gambling Act stands registered at Police Station Kreeri and further investigation taken up.
J&K Police remains committed to upholding law and order and will continue its crackdown on illegal activities in the area. Person found indulging in criminal activities shall be dealt as per the law.
CM underscores entrepreneurship as the driving force of J&K’s future growth
KULGAM, NOVEMBER 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated a two-day J&K Business & Trade Fair organised by the District Administration Kulgam in collaboration with Mission YUVA.
The fair aims to promote entrepreneurship and provide a platform for business innovation and growth for businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.
After formally inaugurating the event, the Chief Minister inspected various stalls established by entrepreneurs and business establishments. He interacted with the participants and lauded their contribution towards promoting business enterprises and generating livelihood opportunities in the district.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that while the government is working to create jobs, it is not possible to provide government employment to everyone. Therefore, it is essential to create self-employment avenues, and schemes like Mission YUVA have been devised to fulfil this objective. He emphasised that banks must ensure smooth disbursement of cases under various entrepreneurship schemes and assured budding entrepreneurs of all possible support from the government. He added that the aim of Mission Youth is to empower young people to explore innovative ideas, build sustainable businesses, contribute to the region’s economic progress, and evolve into job creators.
The Chief Minister noted that trade fairs play a crucial role in strengthening the economy by offering emerging entrepreneurs opportunities to showcase their talent, connect with wider markets, and expand their business networks.
During the event, the Chief Minister visited entrepreneur stalls, business units, and departmental exhibits and interacted with the participants. He also distributed sanction letters to beneficiaries under Mission YUVA scheme.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, said that youth are actively participating in entrepreneurship schemes. She informed that many beneficiaries have already been identified and numerous cases approved. She stressed the need for smooth processing of cases to maximise the benefits and urged youth to avail themselves of these opportunities.
MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami, encouraged young people to seize every opportunity to build prosperous and progressive lives.
The programme was attended by Minister for Education, Sakeena Itoo; DDC Chairperson Kulgam, Mohammad Afzal Parrey; MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami; MLA Devsar, Peerzada Feroz Ahmad; Secretary Labour and Employment, Kumar Rajiv Ranjan; Secretary in Information Department, Muneer Ul Islam; DDC Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan; Mission Director, Mission YUVA, Shadab Aalam; other senior officers; representatives of business organisations; entrepreneurs; and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Capacity-building completion certificates were distributed, Mission YUVA sanction letters were handed over to beneficiaries, and MoUs were exchanged between Mission YUVA and ONDC.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Athar Aamir Khan presented the welcome address and highlighted the aim of organising the two-day fair. Mission Director Shahzad Aalam presented the vote of thanks and highlighted achievements under Mission YUVA.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 19: As part of the celebrations for World Heritage Week 2025, the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K today organized a Special Exhibition of Archival Records and Rare Manuscripts at the Art Gallery, Shergarhi Complex, Srinagar.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Anshul Garg, who also flagged off a Heritage Walk from the Shergarhi Complex to the SPS Museum at Lal Mandi.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from heritage lovers, scholars, and students from various educational institutions, all joining to promote the importance of preserving and conserving the region’s centuries-old cultural treasure.
Speaking on the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner highlighted the significance of World Heritage Week and the collective responsibility to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations. He noted that the exhibition showcases numerous invaluable treasures and urged students and scholars to visit the gallery to connect with the region’s heritage and cultural identity.
“Kashmir is home to centuries-old cultural and civilizational treasures and represents a confluence of Shaivism, Sufism, and Buddhism,” he said and added that “Our rich traditions of arts, crafts, and music have earned global recognition, and our archaeological sites continue to attract large numbers of tourists. This Heritage Week is dedicated to celebrating and honoring these sites.”
He also highlighted the ongoing initiatives of the Directorate to revive and preserve cultural and archaeological sites across Jammu & Kashmir. “The observance of World Heritage Week provides an opportunity to revisit our history and traditions, helping to build greater awareness about heritage conservation,” he added.
The Divisional Commissioner noted that in the past four years, substantial efforts have been made to preserve the unique local heritage developed over centuries by previous generations, ensuring its safe transmission to the future.
He emphasized the need to create awareness among students and the general public about Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage so they can better appreciate the importance of protecting and preserving the region’s glorious past.
RAJOURI, NOVEMBER 18: In a moment of immense pride for District Rajouri, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma was today honoured by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, for the district’s outstanding performance under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari initiative. The award recognises Rajouri’s exemplary achievements in promoting community-led water conservation and sustainable resource management.
Despite challenges during the implementation phase, including incidents of Pakistani shelling in border areas and the concurrent Operation Sindoor, the district administration—supported by the unwavering spirit of Jan Bhagidari, completed and geo-tagged all water recharge structures well before the 31st May deadline. This accomplishment stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of both the administration and the public.
As part of the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari programme, Rajouri successfully geo-tagged 4,208 rainwater harvesting structures, including 132 Amrit Sarovars, 894 ponds, 510 bowlis, 2,270 harvesting tanks and 408 dugwells.
These efforts have significantly enhanced the district’s rainwater harvesting capacity and strengthened long-term water sustainability.
The national recognition highlights the district administration’s innovative and result-oriented approach in mobilising public participation, rejuvenating traditional water bodies, expanding community awareness and prioritising grassroots engagement. Under the leadership of DC Abhishek Sharma, Rajouri adopted a holistic strategy to improve water security through collaboration and community ownership.
“This honour belongs to the people of Rajouri,” DC Abhishek Sharma said, expressing gratitude for the prestigious recognition. He emphasized that the district’s success was driven by collective commitment, strong community participation and consistent on-ground efforts.
Guided by the Prime Minister’s vision of ensuring water security for all, Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari promotes conservation through a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach. The initiative empowers communities to protect and restore water bodies, adopt sustainable practices and build resilience against water scarcity.
Rajouri’s people-centric model—anchored in sustainability, collaboration and active citizen participation—has now gained appreciation at the highest national level. The award has also infused renewed motivation among district officials, community groups and the general public to continue their efforts toward creating a water-secure and environmentally sustainable Rajouri.
This national honour marks a significant milestone, positioning Rajouri as a leading example of innovative governance and effective public participation in water conservation across the country.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: The Innovation and Incubation centre of the Islamia college of Science and Commerce Srinagar in collaboration with the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) PPDC, Extension centre Srinagar organised a one day seminar on ‘Tech Innovative intervention in Kashmir Handicrafts’ in the college today.
The seminar was attended by HOD Arts IASE, Srinagar, Arshad Sauleh, and renowned artist of Kashmir; Ajaz Hussian , Faculty Robotics and Automation Ministry of MSME PPDC Srinagar, Faculty NIFT Srinagar, Designer and Founder of Studio Kilab, artisans of paper mache of shah-er- Khas , faculty and students of the college, and the staff of Design Innovation Centre (DIC), Central University of Kashmir.
The seminar’s focus was to educate artisans on integrating technology in Paper Mache, anticipating and overcoming challenges by exploring innovative designs for newer product possibilities.
Principal of the college, Prof. (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf, lauded the seminar for its educative and transforming role for artisans of Kashmir Handicrafts. In her address, she reiterated the commitment of the college to support the Handicraft artisans of the Kashmir in general and that of shah-er- Khas in particular for value addition of their products to remain market relevant and sensitized the students for future endeavour in handicrafts with integration of technology.
Convenor IIC of the college briefed the audience of the activities and programs that the college has been holding since the inception of the IIC in the college for promotion of the culture of entrepreneurship, innovation and start-ups among the student community. He presented a thorough introduction about the Paper Mache craft in the Kashmir valley.
During the programme, the participants were apprised about already existing technology like 5 axis CNC machine and Wire EDM machine that are used to make Paper Mache moulds and designs.
Meanwhile, an interactive session was held which witnessed a threadbare discussion about the existing technology for Paper Mache and its pros and cons. The artisans identified the problems they faced while using existing technology. In the light of discussions held, the experts pointed out ways that should be incorporated in the existing technology for its optimisation and result orientation.
The interaction session joined by Ajaz Hussain, Dr. Yasir Ahmad Mir, and Burhan-u-din Khateeb. The famous artisan among participants included Syed Sajad Hamdani, Ali Mohammed Banka, Shabir Ahmad Mir, Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, Manzoor Ahmad Bhat and Abdul Majeed Dar.
The entire seminar proceedings were conducted by Tanzeel, English literature 5th Semester student. The seminar ended by presentation of Vote of Thanks by Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Jhat, Convenor IIC.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: An awareness programme was held under Mission YUVA–Udyam Jagriti 4.0 at the Government College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar, here on Tuesday.
Faculty and students from various city colleges attended the programme, including Women’s College, M.A. Road, Srinagar; Government Sri Pratap College, Srinagar; A.S. College, Srinagar; Government Degree College Bemina and others.
Nodal Principal of Kashmir Division Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, presided over the function, while Assistant Director Employment, Srinagar, Aaliya Amin, , and Employment Officer, Tanveer Ahmad were the special guests on the occasion.
Dr. Seema Naz addressed the gathering and highlighted that Udyam Jagriti is a flagship awareness campaign under the Mission YUVA initiative in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and skill development among the youth. “Youth Empowerment directly targets young people, encouraging them to become entrepreneurs rather than depend solely on jobs. Economic Growth creates enterprises, it aims to boost local economies and generate substantial employment”, she added.
Assistant Director Employment, Srinagar, gave a detailed overview of Mission YUVA-Udyam Jagriti 4.0. She briefed the participants about the registration process and the Mission YUVA digital platform, explaining that during awareness camps, youth are encouraged to register on the Youth Skill & Entrepreneurship App, a key component of Mission YUVA’s digital infrastructure. The app facilitates matchmaking, training, monitoring, and provides information about various support systems and government schemes.
The Employment Officer also briefed the participants about the campaign, explaining that it informs young people about the Mission YUVA app, various financial schemes, and online skill modules. He emphasized that the primary goal of the initiative is to foster self-reliance and encourage entrepreneurship as a viable career path by promoting a culture of innovation and skill enhancement.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) today organised a Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge ceremony at its Headquarters, Karan Nagar, as part of its continued efforts to raise awareness against substance abuse and promote a healthier Srinagar.
The pledge was administered by Joint Commissioner (Adm), Nuzhat Qureshi , alongside Joint Commissioner, Suhail Ul Islam. During the ceremony, both officers highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the challenges posed by narcotic substances and stressed the need for sustained public awareness.
Senior officials and central office staff of SMC participated wholeheartedly, reaffirming their commitment to work proactively towards a drug-free and healthy Srinagar. The staff pledged to support the national campaign by spreading awareness, encouraging community participation, and promoting preventive measures across all municipal wards.
The Corporation reiterated its dedication to the objectives of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and emphasized that such initiatives will continue to be held regularly to strengthen the city’s resolve against drug abuse.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday visited the families of those who lost their lives in the recent accidental explosion at the Nowgam Police Station.
He visited the families of Late Aijaz Afzal Mir at HMT Zainakote, Late Mohammad Amin Mir at Bemina, Late Showkat Ahmad Bhat at Qamarwari, Late Suhail Ahmad Rather at Natipora, and Late Mohd. Shafi Paray at Wanabal.
The Chief Minister expressed his deep sorrow over the irreparable loss and prayed for the departed souls to rest in peace in heaven. He also prayed for strength and forbearance for the families to bear the loss.
Expressing profound grief, the Chief Minister said, “This tragic incident has taken away dedicated individuals who were serving the people with sincerity and courage. Their loss is a loss for all of Jammu & Kashmir.”
He assured the families that the Government stands firmly with them, adding, “We will ensure every possible support to the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable pain.”
Chief Minister assured the families of assistance from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Later, the Chief Minister visited Ujala Cygnus hospital in Nowgam to meet the injured persons. He reviewed their medical condition and interacted with the doctors and attendants. Calling for the best possible treatment, he said, “Every injured individual must receive the utmost care. Their wellbeing is our immediate priority.”
The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo and other concerned.
Srinagar, Nov 16, 2025: The Moawin Committee Tanzeelul Makatib Kashmir, headquartered at 412 Hamdaniya Colony, Bemina, Srinagar, conducted elections for its Nigran Secretary, and the working body for the Kashmir Division on Sunday. The election process was carried out smoothly with active participation from members across various units of the division.
Nigran Secretary
• Alhaj Hussain Hamid of Khanpora, Budgam secured 647 votes, defeating Alhaj Syed Sajad Abidi of Halkah Chatergul, who received 266 votes.
Working Body – Zone-wise Results
Zone Srinagar
• Bashir Ahmad Mir (Jaffari) of Tangbagh won with 85 votes, defeating Altaf Hussain Dar of Chattabal who received 40 votes.
Zone Budgam
• Mushtaq Ahmad Mir of Aduroo secured 83 votes, defeating Kifayat Hussain Mir of Hakinipora who received 24 votes.
Zone Magam
• Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Malik of Kanchatpora won with 83 votes, defeating Muhammad Ibrahim Hajam of Babapora Magam who received 64 votes.
Zone Baramulla
• Alhaj Muhammad Yousuf Shafiq of Uthoora secured 80 votes, defeating Alhaj Ghulam Hussain Ali of Diver, who received 63 votes.
Zone Bandipora
• Alhaj Master Ali Muhammad Malla of Shalwat won with 49 votes, defeating Alhaj Muhammad Abdullah Dar of Kawpora, who received 43 votes.
Zone Pulwama/Anantnag
• Ghulam Ali Jan of Shahu Dawsar secured 35 votes, narrowly defeating Alhaj Ali Muhammad Malik of Gangoo, who received 34 votes.
Zone Bemina
• Riyaz Ahmad Rather of Khomeini Chowk Bemina won with 63 votes, defeating Muzaffar Ahmad Khan of Dargund Bemina, who received 62 votes.
Zone Uri
• Syed Javed Hussain Kazmi of Chulha secured 62 votes, defeating Syed Muneer Hussain Naqvi of Kamalkote, who received 38 votes.
