Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees.&nbsp;

Also, Drass in Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 19.7 degrees.&nbsp;

It is for the second time in the last decade that temperature has dipped to minus 6 degrees in Srinagar before the start of Chillai-e-Kalan, a 40-day long coldest part of the season starting which begins on December 21.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/studying-uks-omicron-trend-experts-warn-india-could-see-14-million-daily-covid-cases-437838">Also read |&nbsp;Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 14 million daily Covid cases</a>

The temperatures in tourist resorts like Gulmarg was recorded at 8.5 degrees while Pahalgam was at minus 8.3 degrees.&nbsp; 
Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 15 degrees while Kargil was at minus 13.1 degrees.&nbsp;

The temperatures will further continue to dip in the coming few days, said the MeT department in Srinagar. The department has also predicted moderate to heavy snowfall from 23-25 December.&nbsp;

Kashmir is again expected to see white Christmas this year.&nbsp;

Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees.

Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees. Also, Drass in Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 19.7 degrees. It is for the second time in the last decade that temperature has dipped to minus 6 degrees in Srinagar before the start of Chillai-e-Kalan, a 40-day long coldest part of the season starting which begins on December 21. Also read | Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 14 million daily Covid cases The temperatures in tourist resorts like Gulmarg was recorded at 8.5 degrees while Pahalgam was at minus 8.3 degrees. Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 15 degrees while Kargil was at minus 13.1 degrees. The temperatures will further continue to dip in the coming few days, said the MeT department in Srinagar. The department has also predicted moderate to heavy snowfall from 23-25 December. Kashmir is again expected to see white Christmas this year.

Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave

Amid a spate of attacks on Jammu and Kashmir police by terrorists in Kashmir, the security forces have decided to step up the security grid across the Union Territory.

The cops in J&amp;K have been asked to remain extra alert, as the security networks work to counter the terror organisations.&nbsp;

In the new guidelines, which has also been issued for soldiers, the cops have been told not to venture out unarmed and have been asked not to go alone during deployment.

“'We are taking all the preventive measures to counter these attacks, we will be providing bulletproof vehicles to the policemen travelling from one place to another. The lighting arrangements will also be put in place. Road opening parties will stay longer at the time of movement of police vehicles,”' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;

The policemen who are off duty have been asked to remain extra vigilant while attending any social gatherings such as weddings, religious places etc.&nbsp;

The number of security personnel on the ground have also been increased. New bunkers have been put in place, and checkpoints at various places, especially roads leading to different districts of Kashmir valley have been set up.&nbsp;

There has been a spurt in gunfights in Kashmir Valley in recent days. On Thursday, two terrorists were killed Redwani region of South Kashmir's Kulgam.

A day before on Wednesday, another terrorist from the Hizbul Mujahideen group was naturalised.

Thursday’s gunfight was the fifth in a week. On Sunday, a terrorist&nbsp;was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora.

On Monday, two terrorists were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

Amid a spate of attacks on Jammu and Kashmir police by terrorists in Kashmir, the security forces have decided to step up the security grid across the Union Territory.

Amid a spate of attacks on Jammu and Kashmir police by terrorists in Kashmir, the security forces have decided to step up the security grid across the Union Territory. The cops in J&K have been asked to remain extra alert, as the security networks work to counter the terror organisations. In the new guidelines, which has also been issued for soldiers, the cops have been told not to venture out unarmed and have been asked not to go alone during deployment. “'We are taking all the preventive measures to counter these attacks, we will be providing bulletproof vehicles to the policemen travelling from one place to another. The lighting arrangements will also be put in place. Road opening parties will stay longer at the time of movement of police vehicles,”' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. The policemen who are off duty have been asked to remain extra vigilant while attending any social gatherings such as weddings, religious places etc. The number of security personnel on the ground have also been increased. New bunkers have been put in place, and checkpoints at various places, especially roads leading to different districts of Kashmir valley have been set up. There has been a spurt in gunfights in Kashmir Valley in recent days. On Thursday, two terrorists were killed Redwani region of South Kashmir's Kulgam. A day before on Wednesday, another terrorist from the Hizbul Mujahideen group was naturalised. Thursday’s gunfight was the fifth in a week. On Sunday, a terrorist was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora. On Monday, two terrorists were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

Bulletproof vehicles, new gadgets for Jammu Kashmir Police amid spate of terrorist attacks

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees.&nbsp;

The youngsters are playing Ice skating and Ice Hockey in naturally formed Ice rinks. The first Ice Hockey camp has been organized by Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation in Drass.

The main aim for this is preparing the women's team in Kargil and Drass areas. The Ice Hockey coaches are taking full advantage of the premature cold to prepare the team for the National Games for Ladakh.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-kulgam-437250" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kulgam</a>

"The hockey team that we have now has 30 girls out of which most of the girls are from Leh, that's why we have organized this camp in Drass, in which 15 out of the 40 girls involved should be selected for the Ladakh women's team'' said Noor Banu, General Secretary, and Ice Hockey Coach, Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation.&nbsp;

This is the first time a platform for girls of Kargil is being started to involve them in winter sports activities. So far, many male sportsmen have been involved in ice skating and ice hockey games have come out of places like Drass and Kargil.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-clears-proposal-to-raise-marriage-age-of-women-from-18-to-21-same-as-men-437247" hreflang="en">Indian government clears proposal to raise marriage age of women from 18 to 21, same as men</a>

A 15-day training camp was organized at the natural ice rink at Zanskar. A large number of women not only participated in this camp but also brought the dream of New Ladakh to come true.&nbsp;

''I am extremely happy to be here, Coach trains us so well. I want to tell other girls also to join, it's a great feeling and there is scope to play at national and international level,'' said Nadia, a student.&nbsp;

The girls of Kargil are extremely happy with withholding such an event. Girls from the region are being allowed to show their&nbsp;talent and be a part of teams to represent their country at the National and International levels.&nbsp;

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees.

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees. The youngsters are playing Ice skating and Ice Hockey in naturally formed Ice rinks. The first Ice Hockey camp has been organized by Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation in Drass. The main aim for this is preparing the women's team in Kargil and Drass areas. The Ice Hockey coaches are taking full advantage of the premature cold to prepare the team for the National Games for Ladakh. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kulgam "The hockey team that we have now has 30 girls out of which most of the girls are from Leh, that's why we have organized this camp in Drass, in which 15 out of the 40 girls involved should be selected for the Ladakh women's team'' said Noor Banu, General Secretary, and Ice Hockey Coach, Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation. This is the first time a platform for girls of Kargil is being started to involve them in winter sports activities. So far, many male sportsmen have been involved in ice skating and ice hockey games have come out of places like Drass and Kargil. Also read | Indian government clears proposal to raise marriage age of women from 18 to 21, same as men A 15-day training camp was organized at the natural ice rink at Zanskar. A large number of women not only participated in this camp but also brought the dream of New Ladakh to come true. ''I am extremely happy to be here, Coach trains us so well. I want to tell other girls also to join, it's a great feeling and there is scope to play at national and international level,'' said Nadia, a student. The girls of Kargil are extremely happy with withholding such an event. Girls from the region are being allowed to show their talent and be a part of teams to represent their country at the National and International levels.

First women ice hockey development camp started at Drass in minus 19 degree temperatures

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in India’s Kashmir state.

The armed forces had received a tip-off about the presence of a terrorist in the area following which cordon and search operation (CASO) was launched.

During the search operation, the terrorist started firing on security forces, who then retaliated, ensuing an encounter, police said.

“On the intervening night of December 14 and December 15, acting on a specific input regarding the presence of a terrorist in village Uzrampathri area of Pulwama, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, armed forces from 44 Rashtriya rifles and 182 battalion&nbsp;from the Central Reserve Police Force in the said area,” the Jammu and Kashmir Police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The terrorist has been identified as Feroz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq resident of Heff-Shirmal Shopian.

Police said the terrorist was active since 2017 and was involved in several terror-related crime cases, including the attack on police guards in December 2018 at Zainapora resulting in the killing of four personnel and looting their service rifles.&nbsp;

“He was also involved in the killing of a girl, Ishrat Muneer daughter of Muneer Ahmad Bhat resident of Dangerpora Pulwama in February 2019. He was involved in the killing of a non-local labourer, Charnajeet, a resident of Punjab. Besides, he was also instrumental in luring the gullible youth to join terrorist ranks,” the police said.&nbsp;

The security forces recovered arms and ammunition, including one AK rifle, along with three magazines from him.

The Kashmir Valley had been witnessing a spurt in violence in recent days.

Wednesday’s gunfight is the third in four days in the village. On Sunday, a militant was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora.

On Monday, two militants were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in India’s Kashmir state.

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in India’s Kashmir state. The armed forces had received a tip-off about the presence of a terrorist in the area following which cordon and search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search operation, the terrorist started firing on security forces, who then retaliated, ensuing an encounter, police said. “On the intervening night of December 14 and December 15, acting on a specific input regarding the presence of a terrorist in village Uzrampathri area of Pulwama, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, armed forces from 44 Rashtriya rifles and 182 battalion from the Central Reserve Police Force in the said area,” the Jammu and Kashmir Police said in a statement. The terrorist has been identified as Feroz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq resident of Heff-Shirmal Shopian. Police said the terrorist was active since 2017 and was involved in several terror-related crime cases, including the attack on police guards in December 2018 at Zainapora resulting in the killing of four personnel and looting their service rifles. “He was also involved in the killing of a girl, Ishrat Muneer daughter of Muneer Ahmad Bhat resident of Dangerpora Pulwama in February 2019. He was involved in the killing of a non-local labourer, Charnajeet, a resident of Punjab. Besides, he was also instrumental in luring the gullible youth to join terrorist ranks,” the police said. The security forces recovered arms and ammunition, including one AK rifle, along with three magazines from him. The Kashmir Valley had been witnessing a spurt in violence in recent days. Wednesday’s gunfight is the third in four days in the village. On Sunday, a militant was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora. On Monday, two militants were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

Hizbul terrorist killed in encounter in India’s Jammu and Kashmir state

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in Kashmir.

The armed forces had received a tip-off about the presence of a terrorist in the area following which cordon and search operation (CASO) was launched.

During the search operation, the terrorist started firing on security forces, who then retaliated, ensuing an encounter, police said.

“On the intervening night of December 14 and December 15, acting on a specific input regarding the presence of a terrorist in village Uzrampathri area of Pulwama, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, armed forces from 44 Rashtriya rifles and 182 battalion&nbsp;from the Central Reserve Police Force in the said area,” the Jammu and Kashmir Police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The terrorist has been identified as Feroz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq resident of Heff-Shirmal Shopian.

Police said the terrorist was active since 2017 and was involved in several terror-related crime cases, including the attack on police guards in December 2018 at Zainapora resulting in the killing of four personnel and looting their service rifles.&nbsp;

“He was also involved in the killing of a girl, Ishrat Muneer daughter of Muneer Ahmad Bhat resident of Dangerpora Pulwama in February 2019. He was involved in the killing of a non-local labourer, Charnajeet, a resident of Punjab. Besides, he was also instrumental in luring the gullible youth to join terrorist ranks,” the police said.&nbsp;

The security forces recovered arms and ammunition, including one AK rifle, along with three magazines from him.

The Kashmir Valley had been witnessing a spurt in violence in recent days.

Wednesday’s gunfight is the third in four days in the village. On Sunday, a militant was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora.

On Monday, two militants were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in Kashmir.

A terrorist from the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen was killed by security forces during an encounter in Zainapora area of Shopian district in Kashmir. The armed forces had received a tip-off about the presence of a terrorist in the area following which cordon and search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search operation, the terrorist started firing on security forces, who then retaliated, ensuing an encounter, police said. “On the intervening night of December 14 and December 15, acting on a specific input regarding the presence of a terrorist in village Uzrampathri area of Pulwama, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, armed forces from 44 Rashtriya rifles and 182 battalion from the Central Reserve Police Force in the said area,” the Jammu and Kashmir Police said in a statement. The terrorist has been identified as Feroz Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq resident of Heff-Shirmal Shopian. Police said the terrorist was active since 2017 and was involved in several terror-related crime cases, including the attack on police guards in December 2018 at Zainapora resulting in the killing of four personnel and looting their service rifles. “He was also involved in the killing of a girl, Ishrat Muneer daughter of Muneer Ahmad Bhat resident of Dangerpora Pulwama in February 2019. He was involved in the killing of a non-local labourer, Charnajeet, a resident of Punjab. Besides, he was also instrumental in luring the gullible youth to join terrorist ranks,” the police said. The security forces recovered arms and ammunition, including one AK rifle, along with three magazines from him. The Kashmir Valley had been witnessing a spurt in violence in recent days. Wednesday’s gunfight is the third in four days in the village. On Sunday, a militant was killed in a gunfight in South Kashmir’s Awantipora. On Monday, two militants were killed in a brief shootout at Rangreth, on the outskirts of Srinagar city.

Hizbul terrorist killed in encounter in India’s Jammu and Kashmir

Two Jammu and Kashmir Policemen have been killed while 12 others were injured in a terror attack in Zewan area on the outskirts of Srinagar. The policemen were in a bus when terrorists fired on them indiscriminately&nbsp;injuring 14 soldiers.&nbsp;

"Among the injured police personnel, 01 ASI &nbsp;&amp; a selection grade constable succumbed to their injuries &amp; attained martyrdom," said Jammu and Kashmir police.&nbsp;

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> has sought details on the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. He has also expressed condolences to the families of those security personnel who have been martyred in the attack.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought details of the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the PMO said. India's prime minister expressed condolences to the families of security personnel who were killed in the attack.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have cordoned off the whole area where the attack took place. The incident happened close to the police camp at Zewan which is adjacent to the national highway.&nbsp;

Police sources say the firing lasted for around five&nbsp;minutes and terrorists knew about the movement of the bus. Since it was dark the terrorists managed to flee from the spot.&nbsp;

Earlier today there was an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Srinagar's Rangret area. Two Lashker terrorists were killed in the&nbsp;encounter.&nbsp;

''One of the killed terrorists has been identified as Aadil Ahmad Wani son of Bashir Ahmad Wani resident of Daramdoora Shopian (a Pakistan trained “A” category terrorist) while as another killed terrorist as per the credible sources is a foreign terrorist, yet same is being further ascertained. Both the killed terrorists were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit LeT,&nbsp;'' said Jammu and Kashmir police.&nbsp;

Arms and&nbsp;ammunition including 2 AK rifles and other incriminating materials were recovered from the site of the encounter.

Two Jammu and Kashmir Policemen have been killed while 12 others were injured in a terror attack in Zewan area on the outskirts of Srinagar. The policemen were in a bus when terrorists fired on them indiscriminately injuring 14 soldiers.

Two Jammu and Kashmir Policemen have been killed while 12 others were injured in a terror attack in Zewan area on the outskirts of Srinagar. The policemen were in a bus when terrorists fired on them indiscriminately injuring 14 soldiers. "Among the injured police personnel, 01 ASI & a selection grade constable succumbed to their injuries & attained martyrdom," said Jammu and Kashmir police. PM @narendramodi has sought details on the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. He has also expressed condolences to the families of those security personnel who have been martyred in the attack. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 13, 2021 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought details of the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the PMO said. India's prime minister expressed condolences to the families of security personnel who were killed in the attack. The Jammu and Kashmir police have cordoned off the whole area where the attack took place. The incident happened close to the police camp at Zewan which is adjacent to the national highway. Police sources say the firing lasted for around five minutes and terrorists knew about the movement of the bus. Since it was dark the terrorists managed to flee from the spot. Earlier today there was an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Srinagar's Rangret area. Two Lashker terrorists were killed in the encounter. ''One of the killed terrorists has been identified as Aadil Ahmad Wani son of Bashir Ahmad Wani resident of Daramdoora Shopian (a Pakistan trained “A” category terrorist) while as another killed terrorist as per the credible sources is a foreign terrorist, yet same is being further ascertained. Both the killed terrorists were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit LeT, '' said Jammu and Kashmir police. Arms and ammunition including 2 AK rifles and other incriminating materials were recovered from the site of the encounter.

Terrorists open fire on police vehicle in Srinagar; 2 security personnel killed

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The&nbsp;bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.

The identification of the terrorists has not been done yet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-terrorist-killed-in-ongoing-gunfight-in-south-kashmir-436183" hreflang="en">One terrorist killed in ongoing gunfight in South Kashmir</a>

"Two unidentified terrorists killed in an Encounter in Rangreth area of Srinagar. Search (is) going on,"&nbsp;said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir police had a specific input about the presence of these two terrorists in the Rangreth area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on security forces leading to a gun battle.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rich-tributes-paid-to-general-bipin-rawat-across-kashmir-valley-435935" hreflang="en">Rich tributes paid to General Bipin Rawat across Kashmir valley</a>

Right now, the area is highly secured as Army's JAKLI unit is adjacent to the encounter site. Yesterday, there was an encounter in South Kashmir's Awantipora area. One terrorist was killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

The operation at Rangret has now been called off.&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site. The identification of the terrorists has not been done yet. Also read | One terrorist killed in ongoing gunfight in South Kashmir "Two unidentified terrorists killed in an Encounter in Rangreth area of Srinagar. Search (is) going on," said Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Jammu and Kashmir police had a specific input about the presence of these two terrorists in the Rangreth area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on security forces leading to a gun battle. Also read | Rich tributes paid to General Bipin Rawat across Kashmir valley Right now, the area is highly secured as Army's JAKLI unit is adjacent to the encounter site. Yesterday, there was an encounter in South Kashmir's Awantipora area. One terrorist was killed in the encounter. The operation at Rangret has now been called off.

J&K: Two terrorists killed in Srinagar encounter

One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing gunfight in Baragram area of Awantipora in South Kashmir. Dead body of the terrorist, along with arms and ammunition, has been recovered from the encounter site.&nbsp;

''One unidentified terrorist killed. Operation going on. Police and security forces are on the job. Further details shall follow,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

However, sources says that the terrorist killed in the encounter was newly recruited in Jaish-i-Muhammad outfit. The terrorist had joined the outfit on November 2 and was listed under C category by Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

The police had received a tip off about the presence of terrorists in the area after which Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched. During the CASO, terrorists fired on the security forces leading to an encounter.&nbsp;

This joint operation of the Police, army and CRPF continues in South Kashmir.&nbsp;

One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing gunfight in Baragram area of Awantipora in South Kashmir. Dead body of the terrorist, along with arms and ammunition, has been recovered from the encounter site.

One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing gunfight in Baragram area of Awantipora in South Kashmir. Dead body of the terrorist, along with arms and ammunition, has been recovered from the encounter site. ''One unidentified terrorist killed. Operation going on. Police and security forces are on the job. Further details shall follow,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police. However, sources says that the terrorist killed in the encounter was newly recruited in Jaish-i-Muhammad outfit. The terrorist had joined the outfit on November 2 and was listed under C category by Jammu and Kashmir Police. The police had received a tip off about the presence of terrorists in the area after which Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched. During the CASO, terrorists fired on the security forces leading to an encounter. This joint operation of the Police, army and CRPF continues in South Kashmir.

One terrorist killed in ongoing gunfight in South Kashmir

Rich Tributes were paid across Kashmir Valley to India's first CDS General Bipin Rawat along with his wife and 11 other brave hearts who sacrificed their lives in an unfortunate helicopter crash.

Rich Tributes were paid across Kashmir Valley to India's first CDS General Bipin Rawat along with his wife and 11 other brave hearts who sacrificed their lives in an unfortunate helicopter crash. A prayer meeting was held at Srinagar's army headquarters to honour the CDS and others killed in the Helicopter crash. The Indian Army GOC DP Pandey along with other top officials of various security agencies attended the ceremony. A candlelight vigil was also held at the Army's war memorial. "We organized this programme as a tribute for the CDS. It’s from the people of the valley towards all the martyrs. It was held across the Kashmir valley. You must have seen in the last 48 hours, how the people have carried out rallies, the way they have carried out candlelight vigils, in fact, marches indicate the connection the general had with the people of Kashmir Valley. A large number of people from Kashmir have gone to attend General's last rites in Delhi," said DP Pandey, GOC Chinar Corps. Obituary | Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation In North Kashmir's Kupwara and Keran Sector, several prayers meets during Friday prayers were held. In the mosques of Macchil, Pushwari, Dabpal and T Shuntwari of Machil Sector, the religious heads addressed the people and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls. "It was the memorial service for the CDS and his wife along with officers in the helicopter crash. He has served here and had a relationship with the people of the Kashmir valley. He did have a Kashmir connection. Very significant part of his duty was spent in the valley in some of the toughest phases. He connected with the people and forces in the valley," said Junaid Mattoo, Mayor Srinagar. The tributes were not only paid by the army and other administrative officers but the locals of the valley too. A large group of people in various parts of Kashmir valley held candlelight vigils to honour the General. The locals also attended the function organised by the Indian Army. ALSO READ | CDS Gen Bipin Rawat's demise 'great loss' for both nations: US State Secy Antony Blinken speaks to Jaishankar ''I am in deep shock as a Kashmiri youth. If you see the past ten years, the situation in north Kashmir was very volatile, but General saab worked for the area and there was a connection of youth with him. He connected hearts in the valley. No one was working with the army in Kashmir, but It was only when the General was posted here that he bridged the gap. There are many examples from north Kashmir of people who are mainstream now because of General. . He will be in our hearts always. We are mourning and it’s painful," said Aqib Renzu, Councilor, Srinagar. These events saw a great patriotic fervour among the people who had gathered for these prayer meets and candlelight vigils across the Valley.

Rich tributes paid to General Bipin Rawat across Kashmir valley

We all have fond memories of writing with pencils during school days, but little do we know that the raw material for these pencils comes from a non-descript village called Oukhoo—which has earned the moniker “Pencil Village of India”.&nbsp;

Oukhoo, located along the bank of Jhelum River, in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, exports the raw material called ‘slats’ to more than 100 countries and 90 per cent of pencils made in India are manufactured in this village.

The village came into the limelight after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned its success story in his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, where he spoke at length about “Pencil Village of India”.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley has 18 slat factories and 17 of them are in Pulwama. But the onset of Covid has severely impacted its business.

“Most of the people from this village work in these pencil factories and that's why it's called the Pencil Village of India. There are around eight units running in this area. The slats manufactured in Pulwama are sent to various parts of the country,” said Farooq Ahmad, who works as a manager in one of the slat factories.&nbsp;

Before Covid, the industry used to employ more than 4,000 people. Now, the industry is working only at 30 per cent of its original workforce.

As the schools were shut during the pandemic, the demand for pencils in the market dwindled. Eventually, the production went down, and a lot of people associated with the industry lost their jobs.

Now, with Covid waning in the country, the factory owners are hoping that the demand picks up again, as they have started to re-employ people.&nbsp;

“Before Covid, we had around 150 people working in one unit, but now we are working with only 30 per cent of the original workforce. I am hoping that, by the grace of God, we start producing more and all the people are hired back to work,'' said Manzoor Ahmad, owner of a slat making factory in Pulwama.&nbsp;

The industry has been generating employment opportunities for the youth, especially for women in the Pulwama district. Every family had members working in these factories.&nbsp;

“I have been working here for five years, but we had stopped coming due to Covid. But now we have started again. Right now, only 100 to 150 women are coming to work, but we are hoping that once the Covid situation subsides, more women will turn up for work,'' said Shaista, a worker.&nbsp;

Earlier, India used to import wooden supplies from countries like China. But everything changed in 2010 when the local entrepreneurs decided to make use of Kashmir's famous poplar trees—a peculiarly supple wood which makes it best suited for manufacturing pencils.

The poplar wood grows best in the valleys of Kashmir where the moisture content is ideal, and the weather conditions allow the wood to remain soft during the tree’s growth.

We all have fond memories of writing with pencils during school days, but little do we know that the raw material for these pencils comes from a non-descript village called Oukhoo—which has earned the moniker “Pencil Village of India”.

We all have fond memories of writing with pencils during school days, but little do we know that the raw material for these pencils comes from a non-descript village called Oukhoo—which has earned the moniker “Pencil Village of India”. Oukhoo, located along the bank of Jhelum River, in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, exports the raw material called ‘slats’ to more than 100 countries and 90 per cent of pencils made in India are manufactured in this village. The village came into the limelight after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned its success story in his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, where he spoke at length about “Pencil Village of India”. Kashmir Valley has 18 slat factories and 17 of them are in Pulwama. But the onset of Covid has severely impacted its business. “Most of the people from this village work in these pencil factories and that's why it's called the Pencil Village of India. There are around eight units running in this area. The slats manufactured in Pulwama are sent to various parts of the country,” said Farooq Ahmad, who works as a manager in one of the slat factories. Before Covid, the industry used to employ more than 4,000 people. Now, the industry is working only at 30 per cent of its original workforce. As the schools were shut during the pandemic, the demand for pencils in the market dwindled. Eventually, the production went down, and a lot of people associated with the industry lost their jobs. Now, with Covid waning in the country, the factory owners are hoping that the demand picks up again, as they have started to re-employ people. “Before Covid, we had around 150 people working in one unit, but now we are working with only 30 per cent of the original workforce. I am hoping that, by the grace of God, we start producing more and all the people are hired back to work,'' said Manzoor Ahmad, owner of a slat making factory in Pulwama. The industry has been generating employment opportunities for the youth, especially for women in the Pulwama district. Every family had members working in these factories. “I have been working here for five years, but we had stopped coming due to Covid. But now we have started again. Right now, only 100 to 150 women are coming to work, but we are hoping that once the Covid situation subsides, more women will turn up for work,'' said Shaista, a worker. Earlier, India used to import wooden supplies from countries like China. But everything changed in 2010 when the local entrepreneurs decided to make use of Kashmir's famous poplar trees—a peculiarly supple wood which makes it best suited for manufacturing pencils. The poplar wood grows best in the valleys of Kashmir where the moisture content is ideal, and the weather conditions allow the wood to remain soft during the tree’s growth.

South Kashmir’s famed ‘Pencil Village of India’ now in distress due to Covid

Kashmir Valley has witnessed a record number of tourist arrivals in the last one month. As per government reports, more than one lakh tourists visited Kashmir Valley in November, breaking a record of seven years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With the valley receiving a fresh spell of snowfall, the famous Ski resort Gulmarg has been thronged by tourists. The arrivals of the tourists is expected to increase in the coming few weeks. Christmas and New year attracts several tourists to the valley. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''The view is mesmerising; I wasn't expecting this climate. It's very beautiful and a treat to our eyes and I am very happy, we got to see snow and sunshine which is the best to look at. it's heaven on earth and I would come again and again to visit Gulmarg and ask my friends to come,” said Shivani Chadha, a tourist. &nbsp;

“Every human being needs to visit Kashmir. I will come again. We are vaccinated and we didn't find much hassle with regard to that,'' added Chadha. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-scare-over-100-foreign-returnees-go-missing-in-india-434773" hreflang="en">Omicron scare: Over 100 foreign returnees ‘go missing’ in India</a>

Tourists, who are visiting the valley, are impressed with the beauty and service that they would recommend others to come to Kashmir as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''It's wonderful and feels like a winter wonderland for people who have not experienced snow at all. And you should make a trip here during winters as well as summers to experience the greenery and snow. It was my first time with lovely people, great food. It's like a postcard all around and very nice. Drop all your apprehensions and come here. Everyone should visit, '' said Ashwini, another tourist. &nbsp;

The Gondola ride in Gulmarg is one of the most mesmerising rides to witness the breathtaking visuals of the snow-covered mountains. It's the highest and longest ropeway in Asia. The Gondola starts from the Gulmarg and takes you at a height of 13,000ft above sea level to the mountains of Apharwat. &nbsp;According to the officials, In the last three months, around 2,000 to 3,000 people have taken this ropeway every day. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''The response was very good this time. It snowed yesterday and we are seeing a lot of rush. We expect good footfall this winter. From the past three months, we are seeing 2,000-3,000 people avail Gondola facilities every day. The bookings which we are looking at are very good and we expect a huge rush in the coming winter,” said Showkat Ahmad, in-charge, Gondola. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have put everything in place and follow covid protocol. We only board four people in one car if required. This year, we expect that we will see a good footfall,'' added Ahmad. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-omicron-variant-of-covid-spreads-is-india-really-ready-this-time-434718" hreflang="en">As Omicron variant of Covid spreads, is India really ready this time?</a>

Tourism is one of the major sectors in Kashmir. Thousands of people are associated with the sector. A lot of business was lost due to Covid in the last two years, and this time, stakeholders are expecting to make up for the losses in the business. &nbsp; &nbsp;

''A lot of tourists are coming, thank God for that. Due to Covid, we didn't see many visitors last winter but this time, the tourist inflow is good. The international flights are still restricted and that's why we see a lot of domestic tourists coming to Kashmir. Our livelihood depends on it. Tourists should come and we make sure that everyone follows Covid protocols. All tourists, who used to travel abroad, will most probably come to Kashmir. We want them to come to the valley and explore,'' said Aijaz Ahmad, tourist guide. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Most of the hotels in Gulmarg have been completely booked around the Christmas and New Year. The government is preparing for the huge tourist inflow and also putting in place a new Covid protocol.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley has witnessed a record number of tourist arrivals in the last one month. As per government reports, more than one lakh tourists visited Kashmir Valley in November, breaking a record of seven years.

Kashmir Valley has witnessed a record number of tourist arrivals in the last one month. As per government reports, more than one lakh tourists visited Kashmir Valley in November, breaking a record of seven years. With the valley receiving a fresh spell of snowfall, the famous Ski resort Gulmarg has been thronged by tourists. The arrivals of the tourists is expected to increase in the coming few weeks. Christmas and New year attracts several tourists to the valley. ''The view is mesmerising; I wasn't expecting this climate. It's very beautiful and a treat to our eyes and I am very happy, we got to see snow and sunshine which is the best to look at. it's heaven on earth and I would come again and again to visit Gulmarg and ask my friends to come,” said Shivani Chadha, a tourist. “Every human being needs to visit Kashmir. I will come again. We are vaccinated and we didn't find much hassle with regard to that,'' added Chadha. Also Read | Omicron scare: Over 100 foreign returnees ‘go missing’ in India Tourists, who are visiting the valley, are impressed with the beauty and service that they would recommend others to come to Kashmir as well. ''It's wonderful and feels like a winter wonderland for people who have not experienced snow at all. And you should make a trip here during winters as well as summers to experience the greenery and snow. It was my first time with lovely people, great food. It's like a postcard all around and very nice. Drop all your apprehensions and come here. Everyone should visit, '' said Ashwini, another tourist. The Gondola ride in Gulmarg is one of the most mesmerising rides to witness the breathtaking visuals of the snow-covered mountains. It's the highest and longest ropeway in Asia. The Gondola starts from the Gulmarg and takes you at a height of 13,000ft above sea level to the mountains of Apharwat. According to the officials, In the last three months, around 2,000 to 3,000 people have taken this ropeway every day. ''The response was very good this time. It snowed yesterday and we are seeing a lot of rush. We expect good footfall this winter. From the past three months, we are seeing 2,000-3,000 people avail Gondola facilities every day. The bookings which we are looking at are very good and we expect a huge rush in the coming winter,” said Showkat Ahmad, in-charge, Gondola. “We have put everything in place and follow covid protocol. We only board four people in one car if required. This year, we expect that we will see a good footfall,'' added Ahmad. Also Read: As Omicron variant of Covid spreads, is India really ready this time? Tourism is one of the major sectors in Kashmir. Thousands of people are associated with the sector. A lot of business was lost due to Covid in the last two years, and this time, stakeholders are expecting to make up for the losses in the business. ''A lot of tourists are coming, thank God for that. Due to Covid, we didn't see many visitors last winter but this time, the tourist inflow is good. The international flights are still restricted and that's why we see a lot of domestic tourists coming to Kashmir. Our livelihood depends on it. Tourists should come and we make sure that everyone follows Covid protocols. All tourists, who used to travel abroad, will most probably come to Kashmir. We want them to come to the valley and explore,'' said Aijaz Ahmad, tourist guide. Most of the hotels in Gulmarg have been completely booked around the Christmas and New Year. The government is preparing for the huge tourist inflow and also putting in place a new Covid protocol.

Kashmir Valley gets record number of tourists; Gulmarg’s Ski resort fully booked for New Year, Christmas

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by&nbsp;home quarantine for one week.&nbsp;

The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where&nbsp;full medical arrangements will be made as well.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-witnesses-rise-in-covid-reinfections-433797">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-witnesses-rise-in-covid-reinfections-433797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.''

The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel.

''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol,&nbsp;nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody,"&nbsp;said Itresha, an American tourist.&nbsp;"If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' &nbsp;

The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come.&nbsp;

''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.&nbsp;

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley. All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by home quarantine for one week. The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where full medical arrangements will be made as well. WATCH | ''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.'' The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel. ''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol, nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody," said Itresha, an American tourist. "If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come. ''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives. Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.

Omicron variant in India: New rules for international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley

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