Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake.

In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported.

Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-govt-threatens-hindu-advocacy-body-for-exposing-pakistan-armys-genocide-in-bangladesh-387944">Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh</a>

''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA.

The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-one-nurse-delivers-100-babies-of-patients-while-another-vaccinates-6000-people-387770" hreflang="en">Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people</a>

''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said.

Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been&nbsp;time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake.

''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported.

LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake. In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported. Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake. Also read | Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh ''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA. The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized. Also read | Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people ''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said. Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake. ''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported. LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

India: 170 illegal structures demolished, CCTV camera installed to save Dal Lake

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone.

However,&nbsp;there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times. Two nurses from Kashmir valley are setting a new bar of dedication towards their work.&nbsp;

One such story is of Shagufta Khan, a&nbsp;nurse based in Srinagar and working in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital. Shagufta has managed to help deliver over 100 babies in a hospital caring for covid positive mothers. She has been working in the Covid ward of neonatology since the pandemic started. Not only is she helping mothers, but she is also taking care of these newborns.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/young-artists-reviving-kashmir-music-industry-386556" hreflang="en">Young artists reviving Kashmir music industry</a>

&nbsp;

"In the beginning, it was difficult for all of us,&nbsp;and even health workers were scared. None of us knew what and how we should be tackling it. But then we understood the challenge before us and delivered on our duties. The most difficult thing was to counsel shattered expecting mothers rather than their treatment. Once such patients know they are Covid positive they become very depressed and it is challenging to bring them out of it,'' shared Shagufta Ara.

She is thankful for the support she has received from her family and says&nbsp;that is one of the reasons she has been able to help people non stop and care for the covid patients.

''My family supported me in this, otherwise, it wouldn’t be possible. They helped and understood the challenge. My mother-in-law and father-in-law have acted as huge pillars of support,'' she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/group-of-volunteers-helps-transgender-community-in-kashmir-with-food-kits-amid-covid-387082" hreflang="en">Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid</a>

Another health worker who works 50 kms away from Srinagar in Pulwama district of Kashmir is Tabasum Ara. She has vaccinated more than 6,000 people in her district — which is a record in itself.

Due to the efforts of&nbsp;health workers such as Tabasum, Pulwama has been able to vaccinate 80 per cent of people above 45.&nbsp;

"I have been working nonstop and vaccinating people. Thankfully, we are very close to achieving all our targets and we will carry on," said Tabasum. "There are so many rumours about vaccines. Some have been saying it makes people infertile while others say they can die. I have been trying to convince the people to not pay heed to any such rumors and get themselves vaccinated."

While these health workers are working tirelessly to help patients overcome this pandemic, they are becoming inspirations for not only other nurses but people across the board.

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone. However, there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times.

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone. However, there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times. Two nurses from Kashmir valley are setting a new bar of dedication towards their work. One such story is of Shagufta Khan, a nurse based in Srinagar and working in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital. Shagufta has managed to help deliver over 100 babies in a hospital caring for covid positive mothers. She has been working in the Covid ward of neonatology since the pandemic started. Not only is she helping mothers, but she is also taking care of these newborns. Also read | Young artists reviving Kashmir music industry "In the beginning, it was difficult for all of us, and even health workers were scared. None of us knew what and how we should be tackling it. But then we understood the challenge before us and delivered on our duties. The most difficult thing was to counsel shattered expecting mothers rather than their treatment. Once such patients know they are Covid positive they become very depressed and it is challenging to bring them out of it,'' shared Shagufta Ara. She is thankful for the support she has received from her family and says that is one of the reasons she has been able to help people non stop and care for the covid patients. ''My family supported me in this, otherwise, it wouldn’t be possible. They helped and understood the challenge. My mother-in-law and father-in-law have acted as huge pillars of support,'' she said. Also read | Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid Another health worker who works 50 kms away from Srinagar in Pulwama district of Kashmir is Tabasum Ara. She has vaccinated more than 6,000 people in her district — which is a record in itself. Due to the efforts of health workers such as Tabasum, Pulwama has been able to vaccinate 80 per cent of people above 45. "I have been working nonstop and vaccinating people. Thankfully, we are very close to achieving all our targets and we will carry on," said Tabasum. "There are so many rumours about vaccines. Some have been saying it makes people infertile while others say they can die. I have been trying to convince the people to not pay heed to any such rumors and get themselves vaccinated." While these health workers are working tirelessly to help patients overcome this pandemic, they are becoming inspirations for not only other nurses but people across the board.

Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people

This is a bumper produce year for strawberry growers in Kashmir. On average, the crop has seen 20 per cent&nbsp;increase, but this is not a cause of cheer for the growers.&nbsp;

High produce has very little value with no market available due to COVID-19 lockdown across the region. The farmers allege the government hasn’t tried to rescue their crops.

Manzoor Ahmad, a strawberry farmer in Srinagar's Batapora area, is among the leading strawberry growers in the valley. He says they have incurred more than 50-60 per cent losses.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/group-of-volunteers-helps-transgender-community-in-kashmir-with-food-kits-amid-covid-387082" hreflang="en">Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid</a>

''If we compare it to last year, we have had 20 per cent extra produce this time and also the fruit quality is really good. However, due to lockdown, we have no customers, and we are incurring huge losses. Our rates have gone down and the government is doing nothing,"&nbsp;said Manzoor Ahmad, a strawberry farmer.

&nbsp;"Our main source of Income is strawberry farming and due to lockdown, we have to bear 50-60 per cent losses this year. Earlier, we used to sell this in different districts, also to vendors on the boulevard, downtown or other areas. We even sold in ganderbal, shopian and north Kashmir districts."

The&nbsp;farmers are completely on their own and have time and again approached the government for cold storage for strawberries as the fruit has a small shelf life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-shopian-one-of-first-districts-to-achieve-100-vaccination-among-people-above-45-387329" hreflang="en">J&amp;K: Shopian one of first districts to achieve 100% vaccination among people above 45</a>

''Government has zero role in this, we sell it ourselves in mandis. We request the government to at least make cold storage or make a policy as they have for saffron or orchards or cherries. People should get interested in farming but they are losing it due to no schemes. Last year, we had around 100 hectares of land utilised for strawberry farming but this year it was only 70-80," Ahmad said.

Another strawberry farmer claimed that last year even during the covid lockdown, they managed to sell it to local people but this year with no traffic and no open market, the rates have gone down and there is no one to buy.&nbsp;

''Production was good this year, and with no market, we have to throw our produce away. Even if we have produced more fruit this year, we are still going to bear losses," said Shabir Ahmad, farmer.&nbsp;

The farmer's only hope is if the state government comes to their rescue by either helping them in the storage of the produce or in selling the fruit in different markets.

This is a bumper produce year for strawberry growers in Kashmir. On average, the crop has seen 20 per cent increase, but this is not a cause of cheer for the growers.

This is a bumper produce year for strawberry growers in Kashmir. On average, the crop has seen 20 per cent increase, but this is not a cause of cheer for the growers. High produce has very little value with no market available due to COVID-19 lockdown across the region. The farmers allege the government hasn’t tried to rescue their crops. Manzoor Ahmad, a strawberry farmer in Srinagar's Batapora area, is among the leading strawberry growers in the valley. He says they have incurred more than 50-60 per cent losses. Also read | Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid ''If we compare it to last year, we have had 20 per cent extra produce this time and also the fruit quality is really good. However, due to lockdown, we have no customers, and we are incurring huge losses. Our rates have gone down and the government is doing nothing," said Manzoor Ahmad, a strawberry farmer. "Our main source of Income is strawberry farming and due to lockdown, we have to bear 50-60 per cent losses this year. Earlier, we used to sell this in different districts, also to vendors on the boulevard, downtown or other areas. We even sold in ganderbal, shopian and north Kashmir districts." The farmers are completely on their own and have time and again approached the government for cold storage for strawberries as the fruit has a small shelf life. Also read | J&K: Shopian one of first districts to achieve 100% vaccination among people above 45 ''Government has zero role in this, we sell it ourselves in mandis. We request the government to at least make cold storage or make a policy as they have for saffron or orchards or cherries. People should get interested in farming but they are losing it due to no schemes. Last year, we had around 100 hectares of land utilised for strawberry farming but this year it was only 70-80," Ahmad said. Another strawberry farmer claimed that last year even during the covid lockdown, they managed to sell it to local people but this year with no traffic and no open market, the rates have gone down and there is no one to buy. ''Production was good this year, and with no market, we have to throw our produce away. Even if we have produced more fruit this year, we are still going to bear losses," said Shabir Ahmad, farmer. The farmer's only hope is if the state government comes to their rescue by either helping them in the storage of the produce or in selling the fruit in different markets.

Bumper strawberry produce in Kashmir, but lack of market leads to huge losses

The rising cases of COVID-19 in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has put the state administration on tenterhooks. The health department in the Valley has started an aggressive&nbsp;vaccination drive across Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir is among the leading regions in the country in the vaccination of people above the age of 45.

Around 66 per cent&nbsp;of people above the age of 45 have been vaccinated&nbsp;which is well above the national average of 32 per cent. Within J&amp;K, four&nbsp;districts - Ganderbal, Jammu, Samba, and Shopian, have achieved 100 per cent&nbsp;coverage in this category.

South Kashmir's Shopian is among the first districts to have achieved 100 per cent vaccination of people above the age of 45.&nbsp;

“I want to thank the people of the district, our administration and doctors did a great job. The target we had was to vaccinate people above the age of 45, we have vaccinated 59,818 people and have achieved this. It's the first district in the UT to have fully vaccinated people in that age bracket. The first dose among this age group has achieved a 100 per cent target. We are giving a second dose now to people,'' said&nbsp;Dr Arshid Tak,&nbsp;CMO Shopian.

In Srinagar city, 50 new vaccination centres were established out of which 35 centres started the operations from today.

Every vaccination centre has been provided with 500 doses. These vaccines are to be given to people in the age group of 18-44. Shopkeepers, vendors, journalists were&nbsp;given preferences at these centres.&nbsp;

“It's a special drive to cover the age group of 18-44 years who are more vulnerable. Preferably shopkeepers, vendors&nbsp;and otherwise also&nbsp;we are covering the Lal Chowk area and we have 500 doses. We are seeing people coming&nbsp;and they are enthusiastic,&nbsp;“ said&nbsp;Dr Shameen, health department.&nbsp;

The government has recently adopted a strategy to establish five-bedded COVID-19 care facilities with at least one&nbsp;oxygen supported bed at approximately 4,000 panchayats.

Additionally, 33,000 COVID-19 care medical kits have been distributed for usage by patients in home isolation.

The rising cases of COVID-19 in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has put the state administration on tenterhooks. The health department in the Valley has started an aggressive vaccination drive across Jammu and Kashmir.

The rising cases of COVID-19 in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has put the state administration on tenterhooks. The health department in the Valley has started an aggressive vaccination drive across Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is among the leading regions in the country in the vaccination of people above the age of 45. Around 66 per cent of people above the age of 45 have been vaccinated which is well above the national average of 32 per cent. Within J&K, four districts - Ganderbal, Jammu, Samba, and Shopian, have achieved 100 per cent coverage in this category. South Kashmir's Shopian is among the first districts to have achieved 100 per cent vaccination of people above the age of 45. “I want to thank the people of the district, our administration and doctors did a great job. The target we had was to vaccinate people above the age of 45, we have vaccinated 59,818 people and have achieved this. It's the first district in the UT to have fully vaccinated people in that age bracket. The first dose among this age group has achieved a 100 per cent target. We are giving a second dose now to people,'' said Dr Arshid Tak, CMO Shopian. In Srinagar city, 50 new vaccination centres were established out of which 35 centres started the operations from today. Every vaccination centre has been provided with 500 doses. These vaccines are to be given to people in the age group of 18-44. Shopkeepers, vendors, journalists were given preferences at these centres. “It's a special drive to cover the age group of 18-44 years who are more vulnerable. Preferably shopkeepers, vendors and otherwise also we are covering the Lal Chowk area and we have 500 doses. We are seeing people coming and they are enthusiastic, “ said Dr Shameen, health department. The government has recently adopted a strategy to establish five-bedded COVID-19 care facilities with at least one oxygen supported bed at approximately 4,000 panchayats. Additionally, 33,000 COVID-19 care medical kits have been distributed for usage by patients in home isolation.

J&K: Shopian one of first districts to achieve 100% vaccination among people above 45

The pandemic has hit almost all sections of the society in&nbsp;ways more than one. Scores have been left jobless and many have been left to fend for themselves as lockdowns have prolonged. One of the lesser talked about sections is the transgender community in Kashmir, which seems to have been severely impacted as their sources of income have dried up.

Khushi Mir, a transgender from Srinagar has been without a job for more than a year. Khushi is a make-up artist and she has not had a client since the start of pandemic . Her clients mostly were brides and due to lockdown, there have been&nbsp;no weddings which means no business for her.

But that did not stop her from creating a group where not only has she managed to help herself but hundreds of other transgenders. Along with four young boys, she started&nbsp;a volunteer group. They're currently distributing food kits to the transgender community.&nbsp;

"A friend called me a few weeks ago and was in a very desperate situation, they had no food. I tried helping first on a personal level but later when I started getting more calls. I got in touch with Uzair. We are a group of 5 and we are trying our best to reach as many transgenders as possible. We have a list on 400 with us and slowly we are providing food kits to all of them.'' says Khushi Mir, a volunteer.

Khushi, on her own managed to make a network among the transgender community in the valley. They have listed 400 so far. These transgenders were make-up artists, singers and matchmakers. But due to lockdown they have lost their livelihoods.&nbsp;

Transgender community experiences&nbsp;harassment which has&nbsp;impacted the rates of vaccination&nbsp;among the community. They're&nbsp;requesting the government to start a special vaccination drive or to stipulate a centre for their community.&nbsp;

''We want separate vaccination centres for our community. Some people make fun of us while we walk on the roads, we don't want to go through that humiliation during our vaccination. So, a small vaccination centre for us would be a great help by the government.'' says Khushi Mir, Volunteer.&nbsp;

Among the other four&nbsp;members of the group are Mir Junaid and Uzair Dar. They have managed to crowd fund this project. Multiple people and organisations from across the country have donated for this cause.&nbsp;

''We distribute a ration kit [to] transgenders. The kit includes 25 kgs rice, 5 litre oil, spices, tea, sugar and salt. It costs us around 2500 rupees to make per kit. We have a list of 400 transgenders in total with us. In our first drive, we managed to reach out to 50 people,'' says Uzair Dar, Volunteer. The community claims that they have not received any help from the government.&nbsp;

The pandemic has hit almost all sections of the society in ways more than one. Scores have been left jobless and many have been left to fend for themselves as lockdowns have prolonged.

The pandemic has hit almost all sections of the society in ways more than one. Scores have been left jobless and many have been left to fend for themselves as lockdowns have prolonged. One of the lesser talked about sections is the transgender community in Kashmir, which seems to have been severely impacted as their sources of income have dried up. Khushi Mir, a transgender from Srinagar has been without a job for more than a year. Khushi is a make-up artist and she has not had a client since the start of pandemic . Her clients mostly were brides and due to lockdown, there have been no weddings which means no business for her. But that did not stop her from creating a group where not only has she managed to help herself but hundreds of other transgenders. Along with four young boys, she started a volunteer group. They're currently distributing food kits to the transgender community. "A friend called me a few weeks ago and was in a very desperate situation, they had no food. I tried helping first on a personal level but later when I started getting more calls. I got in touch with Uzair. We are a group of 5 and we are trying our best to reach as many transgenders as possible. We have a list on 400 with us and slowly we are providing food kits to all of them.'' says Khushi Mir, a volunteer. Khushi, on her own managed to make a network among the transgender community in the valley. They have listed 400 so far. These transgenders were make-up artists, singers and matchmakers. But due to lockdown they have lost their livelihoods. Transgender community experiences harassment which has impacted the rates of vaccination among the community. They're requesting the government to start a special vaccination drive or to stipulate a centre for their community. ''We want separate vaccination centres for our community. Some people make fun of us while we walk on the roads, we don't want to go through that humiliation during our vaccination. So, a small vaccination centre for us would be a great help by the government.'' says Khushi Mir, Volunteer. Among the other four members of the group are Mir Junaid and Uzair Dar. They have managed to crowd fund this project. Multiple people and organisations from across the country have donated for this cause. ''We distribute a ration kit [to] transgenders. The kit includes 25 kgs rice, 5 litre oil, spices, tea, sugar and salt. It costs us around 2500 rupees to make per kit. We have a list of 400 transgenders in total with us. In our first drive, we managed to reach out to 50 people,'' says Uzair Dar, Volunteer. The community claims that they have not received any help from the government.

Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid

The Jammu and Kashmir Police today busted the Pakistan-sponsored&nbsp;narco-terror module. One terror associate was arrested while 08 kgs of heroin worth crores recovered.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Jammu and Kashmir Police got a tip about a terror associate carrying 8kgs of heroin. He has been identified as Madasir Ahmed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-army-restores-defunct-oxygen-plant-in-srinagar-386233" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Indian Army restores defunct oxygen plant in Srinagar</a>

"The module was in close connection with Pakistan-based terror handlers and were involved in the drug trade and&nbsp;assisting financially to active terrorists of the valley. The recoveries also exposed the interconnection between drug dealers and terrorists," said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

Local police recovered incriminating material and narcotic substance heroin weighing 08 kgs worth 500 million (INR 50 crore)&nbsp;market value.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-in-srinagar-encounter-385571" hreflang="en">Two terrorists killed in Srinagar encounter</a>

"The module was working for terrorists to strengthen their activities in the valley and were misguiding and motivating the local youth of the valley to join militant ranks," said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

The police say there was another person involved but he managed to abscond from the area. Police say he has been identified and efforts are being taken to arrest them.

Police have registered a case and an investigation has been taken up.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police today busted the Pakistan-sponsored narco-terror module. One terror associate was arrested while 08 kgs of heroin worth crores recovered.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police today busted the Pakistan-sponsored narco-terror module. One terror associate was arrested while 08 kgs of heroin worth crores recovered. Jammu and Kashmir Police got a tip about a terror associate carrying 8kgs of heroin. He has been identified as Madasir Ahmed. Also read | COVID-19: Indian Army restores defunct oxygen plant in Srinagar "The module was in close connection with Pakistan-based terror handlers and were involved in the drug trade and assisting financially to active terrorists of the valley. The recoveries also exposed the interconnection between drug dealers and terrorists," said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar. Local police recovered incriminating material and narcotic substance heroin weighing 08 kgs worth 500 million (INR 50 crore) market value. Also read | Two terrorists killed in Srinagar encounter "The module was working for terrorists to strengthen their activities in the valley and were misguiding and motivating the local youth of the valley to join militant ranks," said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar. The police say there was another person involved but he managed to abscond from the area. Police say he has been identified and efforts are being taken to arrest them. Police have registered a case and an investigation has been taken up.

Police busts narco terror module, heroin worth 500 million recovered

Kashmir's music industry was in shambles for the last three decades. There were no music albums or songs released for years until the young brigade took it on themselves to revive this industry. The pace is slow but these young artists are making every effort to put life back into this industry.&nbsp;

Hashim Rather, 23 is one of the youngest singer, songwriter and composer in Kashmir valley.

A self-taught musician has had no formal training but that did not stop him from pursuing music. He has performed in hundreds of events across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He is mostly admired by young people and that's why in every college or university event, Hashim is always seen performing.&nbsp;

''I think music has been dying slowly here but I guess a lot of local artists who came forward are trying to revive it. All I know is that music is something that expresses what I am going through, what's in my heart and it's a venting mechanism for me. I do music for myself, I never knew people would like it but they did. A lot of people say that it heals them and that gave me encouragement to pursue music,&nbsp;'' said musician&nbsp;Hashim Rather, Musician.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmiri musician" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7fb9c89b-ec04-487a-ae1d-ef05d29011dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/43_0.jpg" />

Hashim has recently launched a Kashmiri song called 'Baalyaro' which has gained a lot of popularity across the valley on the social network. He says there are many challenges for artists. From finding a platform to being socially accepted in a conservative society.&nbsp;

''Social media is the only platform here. I am able to interact with people from across the country. We didn't have many opportunities and now we have social media where people can see your work. We live in a society where we are not free to follow our passion, there are social standards, we have to fit in and if someone tries to live a different path, he is going to be questioned and that's why people doubt it. When you talk about your ambition,all they will say is that it has no future, and I think this kills many dreams. And that's the main reason people give up easily," Hashim asserted.&nbsp;

While the music industry was gasping for its survival, even some traditional musical instruments were at the verge of extinction. Rabab, A Kashmiri musical instrument was completely forgotten till a new brigade of musicians picked it up and brought it back to life.

Adnan Manzoor started playing Rabab when he was just 15 years old. His fascination with this instrument increased after he learnt guitar. At 21, he is the youngest Rabab player in the valley and not to forget the most famous too. His music videos have millions of views and he has become an inspiration for many youngsters to pick up the art.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmiri musician" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="250f91b7-5700-455f-8c16-054d88dca9d6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/33.jpg" />

''I agree that there was no music scene in Kashmir while I was growing up, but that's how I got inspired. I wanted to recreate the tradition and also want young people to take this up to save this art. As an artist, every Kashmiri has to struggle more as there are no platforms for them. but there is social media and I started using social media, my one cover had more than 3 million views. I get mails, messages from people who want to learn rabab. '' said Adnan Manzoor, Musician.&nbsp;

While the industry is surviving because of these young artists, not many female voices have chosen music as their career.&nbsp;

Mehmeet Syed is among very few female musicians in the Kashmir Valley. She started her musical journey when there were no women singers around. The challenge for her was not only to make a mark in the music industry but also to break the cultural barrier of accepting women in this industry.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kasmiri musician" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1250c749-ee52-4fb2-b3d4-cdeb8ba991a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/53.jpg" />

''I loved singing, It was my passion, I used to sing in my school. Everyone wanted me to sing during my school days. I would say I was a privileged one as I had family support. I was kind of the first one at that point in time. I was like a teenager, Considering my age and family background. There used to be criticism but thankfully my family supported me and they used to be around me as a shield and I didn't have to answer anyone. That's very true, I remember when I started there were many girls who were with my during the teenage years but they kind of vanished and disappeared from the scene, i believe it could be because of the culture. Girls think singing is like breaking the glass ceiling and I think it could be Kashmiri culture. I do get a lot of messages from girls nowadays and I try to help as much as I can.,'' said singer Mehmeet Syed.&nbsp;

Kashmir’s music industry has seen the worst in the last three decades but with these new budding artists, there is hope for its revival.&nbsp;

Kashmir's music industry was in shambles for the last three decades. There were no music albums or songs released for years until the young brigade took it on themselves to revive this industry.

Kashmir's music industry was in shambles for the last three decades. There were no music albums or songs released for years until the young brigade took it on themselves to revive this industry. The pace is slow but these young artists are making every effort to put life back into this industry. Hashim Rather, 23 is one of the youngest singer, songwriter and composer in Kashmir valley. A self-taught musician has had no formal training but that did not stop him from pursuing music. He has performed in hundreds of events across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He is mostly admired by young people and that's why in every college or university event, Hashim is always seen performing. ''I think music has been dying slowly here but I guess a lot of local artists who came forward are trying to revive it. All I know is that music is something that expresses what I am going through, what's in my heart and it's a venting mechanism for me. I do music for myself, I never knew people would like it but they did. A lot of people say that it heals them and that gave me encouragement to pursue music, '' said musician Hashim Rather, Musician. Hashim has recently launched a Kashmiri song called 'Baalyaro' which has gained a lot of popularity across the valley on the social network. He says there are many challenges for artists. From finding a platform to being socially accepted in a conservative society. ''Social media is the only platform here. I am able to interact with people from across the country. We didn't have many opportunities and now we have social media where people can see your work. We live in a society where we are not free to follow our passion, there are social standards, we have to fit in and if someone tries to live a different path, he is going to be questioned and that's why people doubt it. When you talk about your ambition,all they will say is that it has no future, and I think this kills many dreams. And that's the main reason people give up easily," Hashim asserted. While the music industry was gasping for its survival, even some traditional musical instruments were at the verge of extinction. Rabab, A Kashmiri musical instrument was completely forgotten till a new brigade of musicians picked it up and brought it back to life. Adnan Manzoor started playing Rabab when he was just 15 years old. His fascination with this instrument increased after he learnt guitar. At 21, he is the youngest Rabab player in the valley and not to forget the most famous too. His music videos have millions of views and he has become an inspiration for many youngsters to pick up the art. ''I agree that there was no music scene in Kashmir while I was growing up, but that's how I got inspired. I wanted to recreate the tradition and also want young people to take this up to save this art. As an artist, every Kashmiri has to struggle more as there are no platforms for them. but there is social media and I started using social media, my one cover had more than 3 million views. I get mails, messages from people who want to learn rabab. '' said Adnan Manzoor, Musician. While the industry is surviving because of these young artists, not many female voices have chosen music as their career. Mehmeet Syed is among very few female musicians in the Kashmir Valley. She started her musical journey when there were no women singers around. The challenge for her was not only to make a mark in the music industry but also to break the cultural barrier of accepting women in this industry. ''I loved singing, It was my passion, I used to sing in my school. Everyone wanted me to sing during my school days. I would say I was a privileged one as I had family support. I was kind of the first one at that point in time. I was like a teenager, Considering my age and family background. There used to be criticism but thankfully my family supported me and they used to be around me as a shield and I didn't have to answer anyone. That's very true, I remember when I started there were many girls who were with my during the teenage years but they kind of vanished and disappeared from the scene, i believe it could be because of the culture. Girls think singing is like breaking the glass ceiling and I think it could be Kashmiri culture. I do get a lot of messages from girls nowadays and I try to help as much as I can.,'' said singer Mehmeet Syed. Kashmir’s music industry has seen the worst in the last three decades but with these new budding artists, there is hope for its revival.

Young artists reviving Kashmir music industry

Amid the increasing numbers of covid positive cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Hospitals across the valley have a huge demand for oxygen supply. And now the Indian army has come to the rescue of the state administration in fulfilling this ever-growing demand.

A defunct oxygen plant in Srinagar's Rangreth area has been restarted with the help of the Indian army. The oxygen plant has a capacity of filling 700 cylinders every day. This will take the pressure the state administration was facing in the last few weeks.

''This oxygen plant was defunct for the last 4 years, this used to refill around 700 cylinders in a day. Due to covid, we thought it's important to restart it. Chinar corp was approached by the civil administration and we brought the spare parts with the help of the air force from Mumbai. We got our engineers to work on this project and finished this project in a record time of 4 days. This facility has been thrown open today and will be refilling 700 cylinders a day.'' said Niladiri Roy, Lt Col, Indian Army.

As the plant was shut for the last 4 years, it had multiple problems in all subsystems like the Heavy Duty Air Compressor, the Chiller and even the Columnar Air Separator, which are vital parts of the plant. The army's engineers worked day and night to restore the plant.

''We were told to repair this plant in the least possible time. We got the material with the help of the air force. We are happy that we would be able to save the lives of people who require this oxygen. We are extremely proud that we worked day and night on the project to restore it. If we can save the life of anyone in the pandemic, it would be a lot to us.'' said Ravi Singh, Engineering Staff, Indian Army.

Indian Army has earlier set up a 200 bed Covid hospital in Srinagar's Rangreth area. One more hospital was established in the Uri Sector near the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Amid the increasing numbers of covid positive cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Hospitals across the valley have a huge demand for oxygen supply.

Amid the increasing numbers of covid positive cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Hospitals across the valley have a huge demand for oxygen supply. And now the Indian army has come to the rescue of the state administration in fulfilling this ever-growing demand. A defunct oxygen plant in Srinagar's Rangreth area has been restarted with the help of the Indian army. The oxygen plant has a capacity of filling 700 cylinders every day. This will take the pressure the state administration was facing in the last few weeks. ''This oxygen plant was defunct for the last 4 years, this used to refill around 700 cylinders in a day. Due to covid, we thought it's important to restart it. Chinar corp was approached by the civil administration and we brought the spare parts with the help of the air force from Mumbai. We got our engineers to work on this project and finished this project in a record time of 4 days. This facility has been thrown open today and will be refilling 700 cylinders a day.'' said Niladiri Roy, Lt Col, Indian Army. As the plant was shut for the last 4 years, it had multiple problems in all subsystems like the Heavy Duty Air Compressor, the Chiller and even the Columnar Air Separator, which are vital parts of the plant. The army's engineers worked day and night to restore the plant. ''We were told to repair this plant in the least possible time. We got the material with the help of the air force. We are happy that we would be able to save the lives of people who require this oxygen. We are extremely proud that we worked day and night on the project to restore it. If we can save the life of anyone in the pandemic, it would be a lot to us.'' said Ravi Singh, Engineering Staff, Indian Army. Indian Army has earlier set up a 200 bed Covid hospital in Srinagar's Rangreth area. One more hospital was established in the Uri Sector near the Line of Control.

COVID-19: Indian Army restores defunct oxygen plant in Srinagar

The Indian Army has established a 20-bed COVID-19 hospital in the remotest area of the Uri sector in North Kashmir. The hospital has been specially made for the people living near the Line of Control (LoC).&nbsp;

With the ever-increasing numbers of Covid positive patients across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government hospitals are overloaded with patients. And to take away the pressure from government-run hospitals, the army has come up with this hospital.

The hospital will have twenty beds all equipped with an oxygen facility. There are 5 ICU beds while two ventilators have also been put in place.&nbsp;

"It's a twenty bedded hospital with all beds having an oxygen facility, we have two ventilators and 5 ICU beds. We are in continuous touch with BMO at Uri. We will be getting patients that will be referred by the civil hospitals." said Captain Sachu Jacob, Indian Army, Uri Sector.&nbsp;

The facilities at this hospital will be thrown open to patients who are referred from the civil hospitals in the Uri sector. If the Uri hospital gets excess patients, they will be referred to this army hospital. Doctors and Paramedics from the army will be monitoring all the patients admitted to this hospital.&nbsp;

"Whenever the civil hospital gets overloaded, they can refer the patients from the civil hospitals to this facility," said Captain Sachu Jacob, Indian Army, Uri Sector.&nbsp;

The Indian army had earlier established a 200-bed Covid hospital in Srinagar's Rangreth area as well.

The Indian Army has established a 20-bed COVID-19 hospital in the remotest area of the Uri sector in North Kashmir. The hospital has been specially made for the people living near the Line of Control (LoC).

The Indian Army has established a 20-bed COVID-19 hospital in the remotest area of the Uri sector in North Kashmir. The hospital has been specially made for the people living near the Line of Control (LoC). With the ever-increasing numbers of Covid positive patients across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government hospitals are overloaded with patients. And to take away the pressure from government-run hospitals, the army has come up with this hospital. The hospital will have twenty beds all equipped with an oxygen facility. There are 5 ICU beds while two ventilators have also been put in place. "It's a twenty bedded hospital with all beds having an oxygen facility, we have two ventilators and 5 ICU beds. We are in continuous touch with BMO at Uri. We will be getting patients that will be referred by the civil hospitals." said Captain Sachu Jacob, Indian Army, Uri Sector. The facilities at this hospital will be thrown open to patients who are referred from the civil hospitals in the Uri sector. If the Uri hospital gets excess patients, they will be referred to this army hospital. Doctors and Paramedics from the army will be monitoring all the patients admitted to this hospital. "Whenever the civil hospital gets overloaded, they can refer the patients from the civil hospitals to this facility," said Captain Sachu Jacob, Indian Army, Uri Sector. The Indian army had earlier established a 200-bed Covid hospital in Srinagar's Rangreth area as well.

COVID-19: Indian Army establishes Covid hospital near Line of Control in Uri

Sipping a coffee mug at the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of North Kashmir would have sounded impossible till last year. But after the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Feb 2021, the situation has improved a lot.&nbsp;

A coffee shop has been established at the Kaman Aman Setu, the last forward post of India Army. This coffee shop will be hosting people from across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and also people from across the country.&nbsp;

“We have opened the coffee shop for everyone visiting the Kaman Post for motivational purposes for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, after having a selfie at the bridge, people can come and have snacks here and they can take home several souvenirs to take along with them. A sixty feet national flag flutters at the LoC",&nbsp;said Vishal Dev, Major Indian Army.&nbsp;

People living next to the Line of Control are relieved after the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. The ceasefire violations have completely stopped and people who had to run for the shelter every second day due to shelling are finally living a normal life. They are thankful that both the countries have reached an agreement. The locals said that through&nbsp;this coffee shop, the gap between army and locals will be bridged too.&nbsp;

“After the division of the two countries, people who were related, friends became distant. When both the countries worked on improving the relations. All the distance was completely finished when these steps were taken. A coffee shop has been opened and it’s to grow the relationships between people and army. The way army has won hearts of people here is worth appreciating",&nbsp;said Qazi Ahmad, Local Resident .

With peace finally returning to the bordering areas, people are expecting that the trade between the two countries would begin soon and people from both the sides may be allowed to&nbsp;visit each other.&nbsp;

Sipping a coffee mug at the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of North Kashmir would have sounded impossible till last year. But after the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Feb 2021, the situation has improved a lot.

Sipping a coffee mug at the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of North Kashmir would have sounded impossible till last year. But after the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Feb 2021, the situation has improved a lot. A coffee shop has been established at the Kaman Aman Setu, the last forward post of India Army. This coffee shop will be hosting people from across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and also people from across the country. “We have opened the coffee shop for everyone visiting the Kaman Post for motivational purposes for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, after having a selfie at the bridge, people can come and have snacks here and they can take home several souvenirs to take along with them. A sixty feet national flag flutters at the LoC", said Vishal Dev, Major Indian Army. People living next to the Line of Control are relieved after the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. The ceasefire violations have completely stopped and people who had to run for the shelter every second day due to shelling are finally living a normal life. They are thankful that both the countries have reached an agreement. The locals said that through this coffee shop, the gap between army and locals will be bridged too. “After the division of the two countries, people who were related, friends became distant. When both the countries worked on improving the relations. All the distance was completely finished when these steps were taken. A coffee shop has been opened and it’s to grow the relationships between people and army. The way army has won hearts of people here is worth appreciating", said Qazi Ahmad, Local Resident . With peace finally returning to the bordering areas, people are expecting that the trade between the two countries would begin soon and people from both the sides may be allowed to visit each other.

Indian Army-run cafe begins operations along LoC Uri forward post

While the whole country is grappling with growing COVID-19 positive cases, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the cases as well COVID-19 related deaths. And the government has said that to beat this second deadly wave in the country, vaccination is the only way out.

However, Kashmir valley is facing an immense shortage of vaccines. According to a government release, not a single dose of vaccine has been given to people in the last 5 days. The J&amp;K media bulletin clearly shows that in all the ten districts of Kashmir valley, not a single vaccine dose has been given to any citizen.

Amarjit Kaur and her father have been coming to the vaccination centre every day for the last 5 consecutive days, but every day they are being sent back as the vaccination centre has no vaccines.&nbsp;

"I have been coming here for almost a week and we are not given a dose, my father is above 50 and he has not been given his first dose yet. They have been telling us every day to come after a few days. My father is a daily wage worker and he has to go out to work so we need him to be vaccinated for sure. They are not vaccinating people above 45, my chance stands very bleak,'' said Amarjit Kaur, a resident.&nbsp;

The daughter-father duo is not the only one who had to return disappointed from the vaccination centre. People in all the ten districts of Kashmir valley are facing the same problem. From daily wagers to Government employees, everyone is waiting for vaccines to arrive so that they can get their Jab.

"They are saying there is no vaccine, we asked them to tell us when it will arrive, they are saying for the next one week they have no idea when it will be available. On one side the Government says get vaccinated and on the other, there are no vaccines available,'' said Ruhi Jan, a government employee.&nbsp;

However, the office of Lt Governor has said that ''A timeline has been set of 10 days for 100 per cent vaccination of above 45 age group with the first dose in all the districts of Jammu and Kashmir''. But the situation on the ground is completely different.&nbsp;

While the whole country is grappling with growing COVID-19 positive cases, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the cases as well COVID-19 related deaths.

While the whole country is grappling with growing COVID-19 positive cases, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the cases as well COVID-19 related deaths. And the government has said that to beat this second deadly wave in the country, vaccination is the only way out. However, Kashmir valley is facing an immense shortage of vaccines. According to a government release, not a single dose of vaccine has been given to people in the last 5 days. The J&K media bulletin clearly shows that in all the ten districts of Kashmir valley, not a single vaccine dose has been given to any citizen. Amarjit Kaur and her father have been coming to the vaccination centre every day for the last 5 consecutive days, but every day they are being sent back as the vaccination centre has no vaccines. "I have been coming here for almost a week and we are not given a dose, my father is above 50 and he has not been given his first dose yet. They have been telling us every day to come after a few days. My father is a daily wage worker and he has to go out to work so we need him to be vaccinated for sure. They are not vaccinating people above 45, my chance stands very bleak,'' said Amarjit Kaur, a resident. The daughter-father duo is not the only one who had to return disappointed from the vaccination centre. People in all the ten districts of Kashmir valley are facing the same problem. From daily wagers to Government employees, everyone is waiting for vaccines to arrive so that they can get their Jab. "They are saying there is no vaccine, we asked them to tell us when it will arrive, they are saying for the next one week they have no idea when it will be available. On one side the Government says get vaccinated and on the other, there are no vaccines available,'' said Ruhi Jan, a government employee. However, the office of Lt Governor has said that ''A timeline has been set of 10 days for 100 per cent vaccination of above 45 age group with the first dose in all the districts of Jammu and Kashmir''. But the situation on the ground is completely different.

COVID-19: Due to acute shortage, vaccine drive grinds to a halt in Kashmir valley

The tourism industry in the Kashmir valley has been incurring huge losses for the last three years. Since the beginning of last year, tourism players in the valley had to go through the worst financial crisis. Thousands of Kashmiri people who are directly associated with the tourism industry have been affected.

Now, Jammu and Kashmir government has&nbsp;come to the rescue of these tourism players. A package of $30 million (INR 3 crore)&nbsp;has been announced. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the measure for those particularly hit due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic.</a>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-warriors-asthmatic-driver-himself-on-oxygen-support-supplies-o2-cylinders-to-covid-patients-384104" hreflang="en">India Covid warriors: Asthmatic driver, himself on oxygen support, supplies O2 cylinders to Covid patients</a>

"In this package, Rs 2,000 financial assistance will be provided to 4,444 registered shikara owners, 1,370 tourist guides, 6,663 ponywalas and 2,150 others including those who rent palanquins for yatris. The money will be paid for two months. The relief will be transferred to only those who are registered with the tourism department," said an official release by the JK government.

Those associated with the tourism industry have welcomed the step, although some feel that the amount could have been more.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hajj-house-in-kashmir-converted-into-coronavirus-hospital-383256" hreflang="en">Hajj house in Kashmir converted into coronavirus hospital</a>

"It is a good Initiative and a great start by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. But I feel the amount should be more looking at the situation on the ground," said Manzoor Baktoo, a tourism player.

This is for the first time such a big package has been announced for the weaker section of people associated with tourism.

The tourism industry in the Kashmir valley has been incurring huge losses for the last three years. Since the beginning of last year, tourism players in the valley had to go through the worst financial crisis.

The tourism industry in the Kashmir valley has been incurring huge losses for the last three years. Since the beginning of last year, tourism players in the valley had to go through the worst financial crisis. Thousands of Kashmiri people who are directly associated with the tourism industry have been affected. Now, Jammu and Kashmir government has come to the rescue of these tourism players. A package of $30 million (INR 3 crore) has been announced. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the measure for those particularly hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | India Covid warriors: Asthmatic driver, himself on oxygen support, supplies O2 cylinders to Covid patients "In this package, Rs 2,000 financial assistance will be provided to 4,444 registered shikara owners, 1,370 tourist guides, 6,663 ponywalas and 2,150 others including those who rent palanquins for yatris. The money will be paid for two months. The relief will be transferred to only those who are registered with the tourism department," said an official release by the JK government. Those associated with the tourism industry have welcomed the step, although some feel that the amount could have been more. Also read | Hajj house in Kashmir converted into coronavirus hospital "It is a good Initiative and a great start by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. But I feel the amount should be more looking at the situation on the ground," said Manzoor Baktoo, a tourism player. This is for the first time such a big package has been announced for the weaker section of people associated with tourism.

JK government announces relief package for tourism industry hit by pandemic

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