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CITY

Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) Remembered on His 113th Death Anniversary

Srinagar, March 11 (2025) : Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA), a distinguished figure in the Ansari family, was born in Khanqah-e-Sokhta, Nawakadal, in Shaher-e-Khaas. He was the son of Mulla Mustaffa Ali Ansari (RA) and the grandson of Mulla Abass Ansari (RA). Renowned for his scholarly contributions, Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) became one of the most respected Shia scholars of his era.

Syed Hussain Hamdani a local resident of Khanqah-e-Sokhta reflected on Mulla Hyder Ali Ansari’s (RA) profound impact, stating, “We have heard from our elders that Mulla Haider Sahib’s selflessness and concern for others will indeed be remembered and appreciated by his neighbors. His legacy serves as a reminder to all of us to be good neighbors and build positive relationships within our community.” This sentiment highlights the enduring legacy of Mulla Hyder Ali Ansari’s kindness and the importance of nurturing strong community ties. His example continues to inspire others to contribute to a supportive and harmonious environment, fostering goodwill among all.

“It is said to that on the 6th of Muharram, the Alam Sharief procession was led by Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) at the shrine of Hazrat Syed Muhammad Mosvi (RA) in Khanqah-e-Sokhta, Nawa Kadal, Srinagar. Mulla Haider continued the tradition of his ancestors in preserving and leading such important religious rituals.

On that day, Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) also delivered a powerful sermon about the martyrs of Karbala. His sermon emphasized the enduring lessons of sacrifice, bravery, and justice demonstrated by Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions, who gave their lives to uphold the values of truth and righteousness against oppression.

Ancestral House of Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) at Khanqah-e-Sokhta Nawa Kadal in Shaher-e-Khaas.

Thousands of mourners attended the majlis, gathering to listen to the sermon and participate in the tribute to the martyrs of Karbala. These gatherings serve as an opportunity for the community to reflect on the profound significance of the sacrifices made by Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions.

Mulla Haider Ali Ansari (RA) also represents the continuation of a long-standing tradition in honoring the martyrs of Karbala, a tradition that has been passed down through generations in his family.”

Mulla Hyder Ali Ansari (RA) married his cousin, the daughter of Mulla Abdullah Ansari. Mulla Hyder Ali Ansari (RA) passed away on the 10th of Ramadhan-ul-Mubarak, 1333 AH (28th July, 1915), at his residence, Dar-ul- Mustaffa, located in Khanqah-e-Sokhta, Nawakadal, Shaher-e-Khaas. His funeral procession was attended by people from all walks of life, reflecting the deep respect and admiration the community held for him. The procession began at his residence, near the shrine of Hazrat Syed Muhammad Mosvi (RA), in Khanqah-e-Sokhta, and passed through Nallah Mar Road, Lukhiryar Chowk, Nawa Kadal Chowk, Khandabhawan, Arampora, Narwara, Wantpora, Kralpora, Sazgaripora Hawal, Gasiyar Chowk, and Ali Park Zadibal, ultimately reaching the Imam Bara Zadibal.

The funeral prayer (Namaz-e-Janazah) was performed at the historic Imambara Zadibal, and he was subsequently laid to rest at the ancestral graveyard, in the Shrine of Grand Mulla Fazal Ali Ansari (RA), at Baba Mazar, Zadibal Srinagar.

Mulla Haider Ali Ansari passing marked a period of deep mourning across Kashmir, with an unprecedented outpouring of grief throughout the region. Mulla Hyder Ali Ansari (RA) left behind a lasting legacy through his five sons—Mulla Fazal Ali Ansari, Mulla Muhammad Abass Ansari, Mulla Muhammad Jawad Ansari, Mulla Abdullah Ali Ansari, and Mulla Muhammad Sadiq Ansari—and five daughters, who carried on his tradition of scholarship and devotion to his faith.

Categories
CITY

Molvi Imran Raza Ansari Extends Ramadan Greetings: A Call for Peace, Compassion, and Unity

JKPC and All J&K Shia Association Urge People to Come Together

Srinagar, March 1: Molvi Imran Raza Ansari, President of All J&K Shia Association and Senior General Secretary of JKPC, extends warmest greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Ramadan.

“As we welcome the holy month of Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection, compassion, and generosity, we pray for peace, prosperity, and unity in our beloved Jammu and Kashmir,” Molvi Ansari said. “May this blessed month bring us closer to Allah (SWT) and to each other, and may we strive to become better versions of ourselves.”

Molvi Ansari emphasized the importance of Ramadan as a time for spiritual growth, forgiveness, and compassion. “As we fast from dawn to dusk, let us not forget those who are less fortunate than us. Let us reach out to the poor, the needy, and the marginalized, and offer them a helping hand.”

He appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to come together and promote a culture of peace, tolerance, and understanding. “Let us work towards creating a society that is just, equitable, and compassionate. Let us be the ambassadors of peace and harmony in our state.”

Molvi Ansari also urged the people to pray for the well-being and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.

“We must also remember the teachings of our beloved Imam Ali (AS) and Imam Hussain (AS), who exemplified the values of justice, compassion, and sacrifice. Let us strive to follow in their footsteps and become the embodiment of these values,” Molvi Ansari added.

In conclusion, Molvi Ansari prayed for the blessings of Allah (SWT) upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and for the success of their endeavors in this holy month of Ramadan.

Categories
EDUCATION

Financial Commissioner visited IUST

Awantipora, Feb. 28: A special interaction program was held at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Shri Shantmanu (IAS), Financial Commissioner (Addl. Chief Secretary) Higher Education Department, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, was also present.

The program was attended by university officials, including Registrar, Dean Academic Affairs, Dean Research, Finance Officer, Controller of Examinations, all Deans of Schools, Dean of Students, Dean Outreach, Director CIED, Director IT&SS, Director DIQA, and various Heads of Departments. The delegates toured IUST’s state-of-the-art labs and facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the infrastructure supporting the university’s academic and research endeavours.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Shantmanu emphasized the need for education that not only prepares students for the future but also fosters a sense of giving back to society. He expressed satisfaction with IUST’s remarkable progress and assured his continued support for the university’s future growth and initiatives.

Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, highlighted the university’s research and academic achievements. He elaborated on the institution’s pioneering initiatives aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on skill enhancement programs, innovation, entrepreneurship, and multidisciplinary education. He also introduced the ‘One University One Data’ initiative aimed at enhancing data management and institutional efficiency. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Asifa Baba, Dean of Students. The session was skilfully moderated by Dr. Farhana Alia.

Categories
CRIME

Srinagar Police Arrests Highway Robbers Impersonating Police Commandos

Srinagar, February 26: Srinagar Police has apprehended a gang of robbers who were posing as Police Commandos to loot trucks during nighttime. The operation led to the recovery of dummy guns, a vehicle, black uniforms, and other incriminating materials used in the crime.
On February 22, 2025, Police Station Shalteng received a complaint from Chanchal Singh, son of Sher Singh, a resident of Haryana, stating that during the night hours, unidentified individuals stopped his vehicle at Maloora, Shalteng, and robbed him of cash and valuables at gunpoint. Based on this complaint, an FIR (No. 15 U/S 307, 126(2), 3(5)) was registered, and an investigation was launched.
Acting swiftly, Srinagar Police formed multiple teams and conducted an extensive search operation. Within days, 04 accused persons were identified and arrested from different areas of the city. They have been identified as:
• Sahil Ahmad Sheikh, son of Mehraj-u-Din Sheikh, resident of Narakh Budgam
• Aqib Ahmad Sheikh, son of Mehraj-u-Din Sheikh, resident of Narkarah Budgam
• Arbaz Ahmad Wani, son of Hilal Ahmad Wani, resident of SD Colony Batmaloo
• Faisal Ahmad Shah, son of Azad Ahmad Shah, resident of Nowhatta
The investigation led to the seizure of two dummy guns, nine mobile phones, a Swift vehicle, ATM cards, cash, and black commando uniforms used in the crime.
The accused specifically targeted trucks with registration numbers from outside the Union Territory, choosing desolate highway stretches during nighttime to execute their crimes. They intimidated drivers using dummy guns while dressed in black commando uniforms before robbing them of cash, ATM cards, and other valuables.
Pertinently, the arrested individuals are history-sheeters with multiple cases registered against them in various police stations across Jammu & Kashmir.
Srinagar Police reiterates its commitment to combating crime and ensuring public safety. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious activities or criminal incidents to the nearest police station to help safeguard society.

Categories
BUSINESS

Kashmir artisan wins 1st Prize in Iranian Craft Festival

Mir Arshad’s papier mache wall plate wins both heart and art

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 25: In yet another recognition at prestigious global event, Mir Arshad Hussain, a noted papier mache craftsman from Bota Kadal, Lal Bazar, has been conferred with the first prize and Diploma of Honor at the 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts, Sarv-e-Simin, at Tehran, by the Iranian Minister for Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri.
Mir Arshad’s entry of papier mache wall plate, which presented a exemplary fusion of traditional and contemporary motifs of Kashmir, scored over 7000 other global entries to receive the first prize in the said festival, along with cash award of ₹65,000.
The festival showcased outstanding and valuable works crafted by master artisans and renowned designers from all over the world, which set highest standards of excellence and originality.
One of the highlights of the award remains the Honorable Mention by the Iranian Culture Minister addressed to Mir Arshad in which he attributed the award to his invaluable efforts and innovative approach in elevating handicrafts. ‘Your creations through your masterful hands stand as a testament to skill, passion and dedication to the cultural and artistic legacy of the world,” it read.
Director, Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, Mussarat Islam met and congratulated Mir Arshad for this rare honour and hoped this international recognition will inspire many others to take famed Kashmir handicrafts on the next pedestal.
An IT engineer by qualification and master craftsman by choice, Mir Arshad extended full support to the Handicrafts and Handloom Department Kashmir, in its endeavour to promote unique crafts like papier mache, which have huge potential in the overseas markets.

Categories
KASHMIR

DIG CKR & DIG CRPF Ops reviews joint operational exercises in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, February 23: In a significant move to enhance security and operational synergy, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Central Kashmir, Shri Rajiv Pandey-IPS and DIG CRPF Ops North Range Srinagar Shri Sudhir Kumar reviewed the joint operational competence of SOG Ganderbal and CRPF. SSP Ganderbal Shri Ragav S and other senior officers of Police and CRPF were also present on the said occasion.

The jawans of SOG Ganderbal and CRPF had undergone rigorous training and simulations to enhance their operational abilities and synergy and their overall competence was reviewed during this visit.

Initially, SSP Ganderbal, provided a detailed presentation on the present security scenario of the district along with the joint operations that have been undertaken by JKP and CRPF.

DIG CKR, while briefing the joint team of JKP and CRPF, provided a detailed account of the recent security developments in J&K and underscored the importance of effective strategies to tackle them and guided the officers in this regard. DIG CRPF OPs North Range Srinagar underscored the need of effective synergy and operational awareness to combat terrorists.

Following this, a demonstration of the weapons and new gadgets used by the joint teams, was held. The visit concluded with a strong affirmation and commitment towards coordinated efforts to tackle the adversaries.

 

Categories
BUSINESS

Kashmir Shawls, Carpet lead in exports

Pashmina Lab augmented to enhance testing, QR coding

Over 17,000 women trained, paid ₹36 Cr stipend in last 4 yrs

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 22: The world-famous handicraft and handloom products worth ₹2,567 crore have been exported from Kashmir valley in the last two financial years and the first three quarters of the current fiscal.

However, the exports in the current financial year have been hit by global conflicts.

Giving details, a spokesperson of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, hoped that the exports are expected to touch cumulatively ₹3000 crore for 3 years, by the end of the last quarter of the CFY.

As per the figures available with the Department, while Kani and Sozni shawls lead exports worth ₹1105 crore, hand-knotted carpet exports stood at ₹728 crore in the last three years. The other products exported include crewel, papier mache, chain stitch and wood carving.

The spokesman further stated that the Department shall facilitate export of hand-made Kashmir products for which a subsidy scheme is available, giving incentive of 10% of the total volume of handloom/ handicraft export products to any country with maximum reimbursement up to ₹5 crore in favour of the eligible exporters registered with the Department,” he added.

Highlighting the Government’s strategy for welfare of artisan community, the spokesman said the Department has a well-established Design Studio in the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology and unique prototypes conceived by the School of Designs and Craft Development Institute. “The artisans can access these contemporary designs and packaging models to add value to their products in niche high-end markets,” he added.

For welfare of artisans, the Department has several flagship schemes in operation including Credit Card Scheme, Mudra, Financial Assistance Scheme for Cooperatives, Karkhandar Scheme and Education Scholarship for the children of craftsmen.

Under the National Wool Policy, the department has selected 100 weaver beneficiaries for distribution of free modified modern steel carpet looms in Kashmir ata total cost of Rs.43.70 lakh and the department will pitch for another 250 improvised looms for distribution in the next financial year.

Emphasizing upon the department’s focus on testing and QR coding of GI registered craft products to weed out sale of counterfeit products, the spokesperson stated that the department has augmented manpower and equipment at its premier Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) and IICT lab for carpets. “The waitlist of 6 craft products including Sozni, Kani, Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, Papier Mache and Kashmir Pashmina at PTQCC has come down from 1700 on February 5 to 671 as on February 21, after strengthening of manpower,” he said, adding that the lab will be further strengthened after more staff shall undergo necessary training at the Wool Research Association, Thane.

He further stated that the proposal for additional equipment including Scanning Electron Microscope and a Digital Microscope have been submitted in the Union Ministry of Textiles, which shall further enhance the speed of testing and certification in PTQCC.

Laying stress upon promotion of training of female artisans, the spokesman stated that as many as 17,182 women have been trained in various crafts at 432 Elementary and Advanced Training Centres of the Department in the last 4 years. “Stipend to the tune of ₹36.27 crore has also been disbursed amongst these trainees,” he said, while describing training as the core activity of the Department, aimed at linking them with master craftsmen under the Karkandhar Scheme.

Categories
EDUCATION

Director Colleges Dr Sheikh Ajaz Bashir reviews the construction works of GDC Dangiwacha, GDC Hadipora

Sopore, Feb 21: Director Colleges, J&K, Prof (Dr) Shiekh Ajaz Bashir visited Govt. Degree College, Hadipora and Govt. Degree College Dangiwach to review the overall functioning of these colleges and to take stock of ongoing works.

He was accompanied by Assistant Director Planning, Higher Education, Mr. Javaid Ahmad Dar and various officials from department of R&B, Housing Board, Revenue, SICOP and Irrigation & Flood Control.

At GDC Dangiwacha, Director Colleges took note of delay in construction of main academic block of the college which has been sanctioned at a cost of Rs. 19.00 crores. Director Colleges asked the principal to expedite the acquisition of approach road so that construction work can been taken upon.

Further he asked Principal Prof. Imtiaz Ahmad to put the prefabricated huts constructed at the college site for immediate use by shifting the college there without any further delay.

Director Colleges interacted with Civil Society Dangiwacha and requested them to support the Principal in operationalizing the college at its own premises.

While taking a stock of developmental works at Govt. Degree College Hadipora he asked the construction agency Housing board to expedite the work of going projects and look into the issues raised by Principal of the college Prof. Shamim Ahmad Dar so that the funds are utilized on times.

Principal, Prof. Shamim Ahmad Dar highlighted the limited allotment of only eight social Science and Humanities subjects to Govt. Degree College Hadipora and also drew the attention towards non-teaching staff allocation to the college.

Director colleges, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir assured that the problems will be resolved on priority and introduction of new subjects together with filling of non-teaching vacancies will be taken up at the earliest. The visit ended with interaction with faculty who were encouraged to work in a mission mode for development of college.

Categories
CRIME

Police solves theft case in Srinagar; accused arrested within hours

Srinagar, February 21: Police in Srinagar has solved a theft case by arresting the accused person involved in the commission of crime and recovered stolen property from his possession.

Police Station Lal Bazar received a written complaint from one person namely Maqsood Ahmed Baba son of Ab Ahad Baba resident of Arzan Sahib Sopore A/P Jogi Wan Lal Bazar, stating therein that an unknown thief barged into his bread shop located in Jogiwan Lal Bazar and stole cash amounting to Rs 34000 and some copper utensils. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 07/2025 under relevant sections of law was registered in Police Station Lal bazar and investigation initiated.

After strenuous efforts and analysis of evidence, the Police team apprehended an accused person identified as Asif Majeed Parry son of Abdul Majeed Parry resident of Waltengoo Kund Kulgam within hours after the commission of crime. During investigation, it came to fore that the thief had stolen DVR of CCTV cameras installed in a local mosque so as to evade any possibility of disclosure of his identity.

Upon his disclosure, stolen cash amount of ₹33731, DVR Of CCTV Camera of Masjid-e-Rahman, Jogiwan Lal bazar and copper utensils were also recovered. Further investigation of the case is in progress.

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearby Police unit or Dial-112 without delay so that prompt action against the culprits will be taken. J&K Police is committed to protecting citizens and eliminating social crimes.

Categories
JAMMU

Dir Information reviews performance, functioning of department

Emphasis on strengthening media coordination, improving public engagement through digital platforms

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 14: Director Information J&K, Nitish Rajora, emphasized enhanced public outreach, efficient communication strategies, timely dissemination of government initiatives as well as strengthening media coordination and improving public engagement through digital platforms.
The Director made these remarks while chairing a meeting to review the performance and functioning of the Department of Information and Public Relations at Media Complex here today.
Joint Director Information (Hqrs), Viveik Puri; Joint Director Information Jammu, Atul Gupta; Joint Director Information Kashmir, Shahnawaz Bhukhari; Deputy Director Information (PR) Deepak Dubey; Deputy Director Information (Central) Sunil Kumar; Deputy Director PR Kashmir Ahsan Ul Haq Chisti; Deputy Director PR Jammu Ankush Hans; Cultural Officers, Field Publicity Officers, Information Officers and other concerned officers attended the meeting, either in person or through video conferencing.

During the meeting, the Director underscored the importance of proactive communication for the public good. He urged the officers to adopt innovative approaches to highlight developmental programs, welfare schemes and policy decisions of the government.
The Director laid special emphasis on leveraging social media and digital platforms for real-time updates and public feedback, ensuring transparency and accountability. He called upon the officers to adopt timely strategies for debunking fake news.
While reviewing manpower position and other issues of the department, he called upon the officers to speed up the process for filling of vacant posts. He also called upon the officers to organise regular training courses for staff of the department to abreast them with latest trends of public relations.
The Director, on the occasion, called upon the officers to commit themselves towards strengthening the government-public interface and enhancing public trust through efficient and responsible information dissemination.

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