Categories
EDUCATION

DJMC IUST Organises Programme with Economic Times Editor

Awantipora, December 15: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), under its department outreach programme organised an interaction with Hakeem Irfan Rashid, Senior Assistant Editor, Political Bureau, The Economic Times, and recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism.

The programme, themed “Journalism in Times of an Evolving Media Landscape,” featured deliberations on the rapid transformation of the media ecosystem, the impact of digital technologies and algorithms on newsrooms, and the increasing importance of credibility in an era marked by information overload.

Welcoming the resource person, Head, DJMC, Dr. Rabia Noor, underscored the growing relevance of ethical, responsible, and critically informed journalism in a rapidly evolving media environment. Emphasising that journalism is fundamentally an ethical profession, he urged students to become critical thinkers and media-literate individuals before entering the field. Irfan, who is also a World Press Institute Fellow at the United States, advised aspiring journalists to identify their choices and privileges, remain disciplined, continuously train, upgrade skills and adapt to emerging platforms, “as journalism is constantly evolving.”

He stressed that stories must serve the larger public good, and cautioned students to be especially careful while navigating social media and algorithm-driven platforms. An eminent journalist known for his incisive political reporting and impactful storytelling, Irfan also shared insights from his professional journey, offering students a nuanced understanding of newsroom realities, political reporting, and the ethical challenges faced by journalists today. The program aimed to bridge classroom learning with industry practice witnessed active participation of the students, scholars and faculty members of the department.

Categories
SPORTS

Police Organises Shaheed Humayun Muzamil T-20 Cricket Tournament In Anantnag

Anantnag, December 15: Police in Anantnag organised the Shaheed Humayun Muzamil T-20 Cricket Tournament under the Civic Action Programme (CAP) at Government Degree College (GDC) Anantnag, aimed at promoting sports, discipline, and positive engagement among youth.
The tournament is witnessing participation from eight teams. The inaugural match was played between GDC Anantnag and Royal King Boon, which generated great enthusiasm among players and spectators. GDC Anantnag won the inaugural match convincingly by 52 runs.
The initiative reflects J&K Police’s commitment to encouraging youth towards healthy and constructive activities, strengthening police-public relations, and fostering a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Police reiterated its resolve to continue organizing such community-oriented and youth-centric programmes under the Civic Action Programme.

 

Categories
KASHMIR

District Admin Budgam Continues Crackdown on Illegal Brick Kilns; Three Units Demolished in Chadoora

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.

Categories
KASHMIR

CM Omar Abdullah dedicates Asia’s longest ski drag lift; inaugurates, lays foundation of ₹17 crore tourism projects at Gulmarg

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.

Categories
CRIME

Police Cracks Major Livestock Theft Case In Pulwama; 02 accused arrested

Stolen Sheep Recovered

Pulwama, December 11: In a significant breakthrough in a livestock theft case, police have cracked a major livestock theft case in Pulwama and successfully recovered stolen sheep.
Police in Pulwama has successfully recovered 47 stolen sheep related to Case FIR No. 282/2025 U/S 331(4), 305 Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The sheep were stolen from Banderpora during the intervening night of 17/18 November 2025 and were traced to Kulan Kangan, Ganderbal.
During sustained investigation, Police arrested two accused involved in the theft identified as Ab Razak Bajad son of Mohd Shafi resident of Kandiyal Akhnoor and Mohd Jeelani Barghat son of Mohd Zar resident of Dova Rajouri. Meanwhile, three other accused Mushtaq Ahmad Khari son of Baugh Hussain resident of Thandi Choi Akhnoor, Nazakket Ahmad Bokda son of Mohd Zubair resident of Akhnoor A/P Wahab Sahib Khrew and Mohd Jaleeni Barghat son of Mohd Motwali resident of Sugli Gala Kalakot Rajouri are still evading arrest. Efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the absconding accused at the earliest.
The recovered livestock is being transported back to Pulwama for legal formalities and restoration to the rightful owner.
J&K Police remains committed to cracking down on theft and safeguarding the property of citizens.

Categories
KASHMIR

Imran Ansari Greets People on the Birth Anniversary of Hazrat Fatima Zehra (SA)

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.

Categories
HEALTH

First Laparoscopic Excision of Ovarian Dermoid Cysts successfully performed at DH Ramban

RAMBAN, DECEMBER 10: District Hospital Ramban has successfully conducted its first two laparoscopic surgeries for ovarian dermoid cysts, marking a significant milestone for minimally invasive gynecological surgery in the region.

Ovarian dermoid cysts are typically benign ovarian tumours containing ectodermal tissues such as hair, nails, or teeth. These cases are conventionally managed by open abdominal surgery; however, the surgical team at District Hospital Ramban opted for a laparoscopic approach, thereby minimising surgical trauma, reducing operative time, and ensuring negligible blood loss.

Both patients underwent thorough pre-operative evaluation including imaging studies and ovarian tumour markers, which were suggestive of benign pathology. Following multidisciplinary consultation with the Gynecology Department, the patients were taken up for surgery and are recovering well post-operatively.

The procedures were performed by Dr Yassar Arafat (Operating Surgeon), with intra-operative support from Dr Raouf Zargar (Anaesthetist) and Dr Shabir Chambial (Gynecologist). The team was ably assisted by Zahoor, Reyaz, and other supporting staff members.

This achievement reflects the hospital’s commitment to advancing surgical care and providing modern, patient-friendly treatment options to the people of Ramban and adjoining areas.

Categories
JAMMU

CM Omar Abdullah chairs J&K Housing Board Meeting

JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired the 52nd meeting of the Board of Directors of the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board (J&KHB) at the Civil Secretariat here, where detailed deliberations were held on key policy and administrative matters.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department Mandeep Kaur, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Director General Codes and Director General Budget, Managing Director, J&K Housing Board while as other senior officers posted outside Jammu participated through video conference.

The Board reviewed the minutes of the 51st meeting of the Board of Directors held on June 28, 2024 and action taken on the decisions.

During the meeting, the Board considered several agenda points, including proposals for development of a Mass Housing Colony at Birpur in Tehsil Bari Brahmana, District Samba, and construction of housing facilities on 41 Kanal 05 Marlas of land at Bhalwal, Jammu.

The Board also held detailed discussions on implementation of the J&K Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme, 2022 through the J&K Housing Board, engaging of legal counsel for court cases and filing of appeals before the Hon’ble High Court in various matters, and budgetary proposals for the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26.

Chairing the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized timely execution of housing projects, transparency in decision-making and strict monitoring of timelines.

He directed that certain agenda items be reconsidered and revised to ensure greater financial prudence, technical soundness and long-term public benefit before being taken up for final decision.

He further directed the Housing Board to fast-track project implementation, adopt modern project management practices and ensure that affordable, safe and quality housing is delivered to the people, particularly to middle and lower income groups, emphasizing that projects to provide affordable housing for all sections of the society is the essential purpose for which J&K Housing Board has been established.

The Chief Minister also stressed rationalization of institutional structures, strengthening of financial discipline and enhanced coordination among departments to make the Housing Board more efficient and citizen-centric.

Categories
CRIME

J&K Police solve theft case within 24 hours in Sopore; Accused arrested, stolen property recovered

Sopore December 10: Police in Sopore have successfully solved a theft case registered at Police Station Sopore, leading to the arrest of the accused and recovery of stolen property within 24 hours of the incident.

Police Station Sopore received a complaint from Syed Salah Ud Din, Manager, Shadowfax Logistics, Ashpeer Sopore, regarding the theft of mobile phones. Accordingly, FIR No. 272/2025 under relevant sections of law was registered and investigation was promptly initiated.

During the course of investigation, multiple suspects were examined, and officers zeroed in on one suspect, identified as Afaq Ahmad Ahanger son of Suna Ullah Ahanger resident of Amberpora Tarzoo Sopore. During questioning, officers learnt about his involvement in the commission of crime. On his disclosure, Police team recovered the stolen property worth approximately ₹50,000.

J&K Police reaffirm their commitment to swift investigation, timely action, and protection of public property. Further investigation is still going on.

Categories
CITY

DC Srinagar, SMC Commissioner Conduct Citywide Inspection of winter, Snow Clearance Preparedness

Assess ground readiness for winter response at MED Shalteng, ICCC HMT & SMC Control Room

SRINAGAR DECEMBER 10: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo along with the Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb carried out an extensive on-site review of snow-clearance arrangements across the City.

The visit was aimed to assess on ground readiness of Men and Machinery, Control Room operation and overall winter response preparedness.

During the visit, Chief Engineer Mechanical Engineering Department, Bod Raj; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed; Joint Commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, Joint Commissioner SMC, Syed Abul Qasim; Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, SDM West Irfan Bahadur, Superintending Engineers of R&B, MED, SMC and other Officers accompanied the DC and Commissioner SMC.

The DC and SMC Commissioner inspected key sites including the MED Snow clearance Control Room at Shalteng, the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT, the SMC Control Room, and the JAKLINE Yard.

The Officers reviewed the response mechanisms, availability of equipment, communication systems and readiness of field teams.

At MED complex cum Control Room Shalteng, the DC and SMC Commissioner accompanied by Chief Engineer MED inspected the deployment of men and machinery, functioning of control room and coordination mechanisms established to deal with snowfall and related exigencies.

On the occasion, the DC and SMC Commissioner were briefed that as many as 45 snow clearance machines are kept in ready state for deployment of snow clearance along 35 routes comprising road length of 1634 kilometres under the jurisdiction of MED.

Both the Officers emphasized close inter-departmental coordination, round-the-clock control room functioning, and prompt response systems to address public grievances during winter emergencies. They underlined proactive planning, timely deployment of men and machinery and effective communication to tackle any situation evolved due to snowfall besides ensuring the smooth functioning of essential services.

The DC underscored the importance of swift mobilization of snow-clearance machinery to avoid disruptions. The SMC Commissioner directed field teams to remain alert and fully prepared to respond to any eventuality arising from snowfall, ensuring timely public assistance.

DC Srinagar and SMC Commissioner emphasized ensuring round-the-clock functionality of control rooms and swift mobilization of snow-clearance machinery to prevent disruption of essential services. They directed teams to remain fully prepared to address any situation arising from snowfall and to ensure timely assistance to the public.

Meanwhile, the officers visited the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT, where they assessed its operational readiness for seamless monitoring of winter arrangements. They interacted with officials from various departments deployed at the Centre for round-the-clock functioning, surveillance, and real-time dissemination of information, particularly during emergencies.

Later, the DC and SMC Commissioner inspected the SMC Control Room at JAKLINE Yard near Batamaloo and inspected the available machinery and preparedness for snow-clearance operations.

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