Despite receiving more than half a dozen threats from terrorist groups over the past three months, members of the Kashmiri Pandit community have continued to demonstrate resilience and a determination to preserve their cultural traditions. Kashmiri Pandits gathered in large numbers in Srinagar to celebrate Ganesh Visarjan, marking what participants described as a historic revival of a tradition that had largely disappeared from the Valley for decades.The procession began at the Shiva Temple in Sonwar and made its way through the streets of Srinagar to the banks of the Jhelum River, where the Ganesh idol was immersed. Devotees chanted hymns and devotional songs as the procession moved through the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and celebration.The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. For many participants, today’s gathering brought back memories of a shared cultural tradition that had been interrupted by years of conflict and migration.“There were certainly threats circulating, but Kashmir and its people, irrespective of religion, have seen a lot since the 1990s. Faith has kept Kashmir moving. We have always known this land as an abode of saints, peers and Sufi culture, and that syncretic spirit continues to endure. The confidence and sense of security extended to the Kashmiri Pandit community by local Muslims, along with the police and administration, sends a powerful message: we are not alone, and people will stand with us to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” said Mohit Bhan, Kashmiri Pandit Politician.Kashmiri Pandits who had travelled from different parts of the country took part in the procession. Many were accompanied by their children, who had grown up hearing stories about Kashmir and its traditions but were experiencing the celebration in the Valley for the first time.As chants of Lord Ganesha echoed from Sonwar to the Jhelum, participants described the occasion as an emotional connection with their ancestral homeland and cultural heritage.Several participants said the gathering reflected what they remembered as Kashmir's tradition of communal harmony and Hindu-Muslim participation in cultural and religious occasions. They expressed hope that the revival of such traditions could contribute to the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. 

Despite receiving more than half a dozen threats from terrorist groups over the past three months, members of the Kashmiri Pandit community have continued to demonstrate resilience and a determination to preserve their cultural traditions. Kashmiri Pandits gathered in large numbers in Srinagar to celebrate Ganesh Visarjan, marking what participants described as a historic revival of a tradition that had largely disappeared from the Valley for decades. The procession began at the Shiva Temple in Sonwar and made its way through the streets of Srinagar to the banks of the Jhelum River, where the Ganesh idol was immersed. Devotees chanted hymns and devotional songs as the procession moved through the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and celebration. The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. For many participants, today’s gathering brought back memories of a shared cultural tradition that had been interrupted by years of conflict and migration. “There were certainly threats circulating, but Kashmir and its people, irrespective of religion, have seen a lot since the 1990s. Faith has kept Kashmir moving. We have always known this land as an abode of saints, peers and Sufi culture, and that syncretic spirit continues to endure. The confidence and sense of security extended to the Kashmiri Pandit community by local Muslims, along with the police and administration, sends a powerful message: we are not alone, and people will stand with us to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” said Mohit Bhan, Kashmiri Pandit Politician. Kashmiri Pandits who had travelled from different parts of the country took part in the procession. Many were accompanied by their children, who had grown up hearing stories about Kashmir and its traditions but were experiencing the celebration in the Valley for the first time. As chants of Lord Ganesha echoed from Sonwar to the Jhelum, participants described the occasion as an emotional connection with their ancestral homeland and cultural heritage. Several participants said the gathering reflected what they remembered as Kashmir's tradition of communal harmony and Hindu-Muslim participation in cultural and religious occasions. They expressed hope that the revival of such traditions could contribute to the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community.&nbsp;

Defying threats, Kashmiri Pandits bring back Ganesh Visarjan in Srinagar

A fresh political disagreement has emerged within the NC-Congress alliance over the proposed framework for charges on certain high-value UPI transactions, with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defending the principle of recovering part of the cost of maintaining the digital payments ecosystem from businesses.Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, however, has taken the opposite position, demanding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdraw what he has described as a “UPI tax” imposed on Indians. The disagreement marks the second instance this month in which the National Conference has publicly differed with its alliance partner, the Congress.Earlier this month, the two parties had differing positions on singing Vande Mataram. The Congress had advised its alliance partners across the country to stand only during the first two stanzas, while the National Conference defended its position of standing throughout the song.Abdullah, whose National Conference is an alliance partner of the Congress, defended the underlying rationale for charging businesses, while stressing that ordinary consumers should not be made to bear the cost.He argued that businesses that benefit significantly from digital payments could cover part of the cost of operating and maintaining the UPI ecosystem, rather than individual users. His position is also broadly in line with the government's stated rationale for the proposed framework.“This charge does not apply to everyone. As far as I understand, there is no charge on person-to-person money transfers. For individual consumers as well, there will be no charge unless they cross a certain ceiling. As far as I have understood, running the UPI system is not cheap. It costs a lot of money to operate and maintain it. And the truth is that when we get something for free, we often don’t appreciate it properly. The Government of India should make every effort to ensure that ordinary people do not have to bear the charges for using UPI. If companies are charged, I have no objection to that, because businesses also earn significant benefits through UPI,” said Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.Rahul Gandhi, meanwhile, has opposed the move and described it as a tax on Indians. He also linked the issue to what he alleged was excessive deference by the Modi government towards the United States.“Indiraji was once asked whether she leaned to the left or the right, and her response was: ‘I don’t lean left, I don’t lean right. I stand straight. Modiji has a completely different concept. He is neither left nor right. He has decided to lie down straight and prostrate himself before Donald Trump. He has imposed a tax on every single Indian by taxing UPI and giving a huge amount of money to the United States. Modiji, please stop lying down in front of the United States. Have a spine, stand up, and withdraw the UPI tax,” said Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition.The contrasting positions once again highlight differences between the two alliance partners, raising the question: Is the National Conference and Congress alliance headed for a fallout after the NC publicly expressed disagreements with Congress over multiple issues?&nbsp;&nbsp;

The NC-Congress alliance faces strain as Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah publicly diverged from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on UPI transaction fees and singing Vande Mataram.

A fresh political disagreement has emerged within the NC-Congress alliance over the proposed framework for charges on certain high-value UPI transactions, with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defending the principle of recovering part of the cost of maintaining the digital payments ecosystem from businesses. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, however, has taken the opposite position, demanding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdraw what he has described as a “UPI tax” imposed on Indians. The disagreement marks the second instance this month in which the National Conference has publicly differed with its alliance partner, the Congress. Earlier this month, the two parties had differing positions on singing Vande Mataram. The Congress had advised its alliance partners across the country to stand only during the first two stanzas, while the National Conference defended its position of standing throughout the song. Abdullah, whose National Conference is an alliance partner of the Congress, defended the underlying rationale for charging businesses, while stressing that ordinary consumers should not be made to bear the cost. He argued that businesses that benefit significantly from digital payments could cover part of the cost of operating and maintaining the UPI ecosystem, rather than individual users. His position is also broadly in line with the government's stated rationale for the proposed framework. “This charge does not apply to everyone. As far as I understand, there is no charge on person-to-person money transfers. For individual consumers as well, there will be no charge unless they cross a certain ceiling. As far as I have understood, running the UPI system is not cheap. It costs a lot of money to operate and maintain it. And the truth is that when we get something for free, we often don’t appreciate it properly. The Government of India should make every effort to ensure that ordinary people do not have to bear the charges for using UPI. If companies are charged, I have no objection to that, because businesses also earn significant benefits through UPI,” said Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Rahul Gandhi, meanwhile, has opposed the move and described it as a tax on Indians. He also linked the issue to what he alleged was excessive deference by the Modi government towards the United States. “Indiraji was once asked whether she leaned to the left or the right, and her response was: ‘I don’t lean left, I don’t lean right. I stand straight. Modiji has a completely different concept. He is neither left nor right. He has decided to lie down straight and prostrate himself before Donald Trump. He has imposed a tax on every single Indian by taxing UPI and giving a huge amount of money to the United States. Modiji, please stop lying down in front of the United States. Have a spine, stand up, and withdraw the UPI tax,” said Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition. The contrasting positions once again highlight differences between the two alliance partners, raising the question: Is the National Conference and Congress alliance headed for a fallout after the NC publicly expressed disagreements with Congress over multiple issues?

The NC-Congress alliance faces strain as Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah publicly diverged from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on UPI transaction fees and singing Vande Mataram.

From Vande Mataram to UPI: Why is NC breaking ranks with Congress

Winter has made an early appearance in the higher reaches of north Kashmir’s Gurez Valley, with Kabul Gali in the Tulail Valley receiving the season’s first snowfall on Thursday (September 17). The fresh snowfall covered the high-altitude slopes and mountain stretches of Kabul Gali in a blanket of white, marking a sharp shift from the region’s otherwise green summer landscape. Temperatures also dropped noticeably following the spell of snow.&nbsp;Situated at a considerable elevation in the Tulail Valley, Kabul Gali is among the higher areas of Gurez that typically experience the first signs of winter. The latest snowfall has signalled the beginning of the seasonal transition towards colder conditions across the upper reaches. The snow has also transformed the surrounding landscape, adding a distinctly wintry appearance to Tulail’s rugged mountains and scenic terrain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-mementos-e-auction-1-498-gifts-up-for-bidding-silver-lord-ram-memento-tops-list-1789553063151">PM Modi mementos e-auction: 1,498 gifts up for bidding, silver Lord Ram memento tops list. Check full list</a>&nbsp;With weather conditions changing rapidly in the higher areas, residents and travellers have been advised to remain cautious while moving through mountainous stretches, where temperatures can fall quickly after fresh snowfall. The early snowfall has brought renewed focus on the approaching winter in Gurez, a remote and high-altitude region of north Kashmir that experiences prolonged cold conditions during the winter months.&nbsp;The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has predicted that the Kashmir Valley could experience the impact of El Nino this winter, which is generally associated with relatively mild winter conditions. However, the weather so far appears to be presenting a different picture. Snowfall has already started in the northern parts of Kashmir, influencing weather conditions across the Valley, while temperatures have also witnessed a noticeable dip, including in Srinagar. Rainfall reported across several parts of the region has further contributed to the fall in temperatures, raising questions about how the winter season may actually unfold despite the seasonal forecast of milder conditions.

The snow has also transformed the surrounding landscape, adding a distinctly wintry appearance to Tulail’s rugged mountains and scenic terrain

Winter has made an early appearance in the higher reaches of north Kashmir’s Gurez Valley, with Kabul Gali in the Tulail Valley receiving the season’s first snowfall on Thursday (September 17). The fresh snowfall covered the high-altitude slopes and mountain stretches of Kabul Gali in a blanket of white, marking a sharp shift from the region’s otherwise green summer landscape. Temperatures also dropped noticeably following the spell of snow. Situated at a considerable elevation in the Tulail Valley, Kabul Gali is among the higher areas of Gurez that typically experience the first signs of winter. The latest snowfall has signalled the beginning of the seasonal transition towards colder conditions across the upper reaches. The snow has also transformed the surrounding landscape, adding a distinctly wintry appearance to Tulail’s rugged mountains and scenic terrain. Also Read: PM Modi mementos e-auction: 1,498 gifts up for bidding, silver Lord Ram memento tops list. Check full list With weather conditions changing rapidly in the higher areas, residents and travellers have been advised to remain cautious while moving through mountainous stretches, where temperatures can fall quickly after fresh snowfall. The early snowfall has brought renewed focus on the approaching winter in Gurez, a remote and high-altitude region of north Kashmir that experiences prolonged cold conditions during the winter months. The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has predicted that the Kashmir Valley could experience the impact of El Nino this winter, which is generally associated with relatively mild winter conditions. However, the weather so far appears to be presenting a different picture. Snowfall has already started in the northern parts of Kashmir, influencing weather conditions across the Valley, while temperatures have also witnessed a noticeable dip, including in Srinagar. Rainfall reported across several parts of the region has further contributed to the fall in temperatures, raising questions about how the winter season may actually unfold despite the seasonal forecast of milder conditions.

Situated at a considerable elevation in the Tulail Valley, Kabul Gali is among the higher areas of Gurez that typically experience the first signs of winter. The latest snowfall has signalled the beginning of the seasonal transition towards colder conditions across the upper reaches

Gurez Valley sees season’s first snowfall as temperatures dip across Kashmir

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Brattal area of Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, security sources said on Thursday. According to the sources, security forces received intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a coordinated operation was launched on Wednesday. The operation continued through the night.As the operation resumed in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, two terrorists were killed, the sources said. Their bodies were subsequently recovered from the encounter site.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WhiteKnightCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhiteKnightCorps</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/CounterTerrorismOperations?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CounterTerrorismOperations</a> 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗡 | 𝗧𝗪𝗢 𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗨𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗦𝗘𝗗 In a joint intelligence-based operation during the intervening night of 16/17 Sep 2026, confirmed inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in… <a href="https://t.co/4UokfN8NgF">pic.twitter.com/4UokfN8NgF</a>&mdash; White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) <a href="https://x.com/Whiteknight_IA/status/2100431309177049213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a>Arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the site. The identities of the two slain terrorists are yet to be ascertained.The operation was jointly carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Indian Army. Security forces have brought in additional reinforcements as the search operation continues, amid the possibility that more terrorists could still be hiding in the area.A large-scale search and sanitisation operation has been intensified in the surrounding area to ensure that no further threat remains.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hal-s-lfoolproof-security-across-kashmir-valley-top-priority-igp-sujit-kumaruh-quiet-over-the-ridges-curing-the-himalayan-wobble-1789371026636">Foolproof security across Kashmir Valley top priority: IGP Sujit Kumar</a>Security sources have described the killing of the two terrorists as a significant success for the forces. They also said that both the slain men are suspected to have been foreign terrorists.There has been no detailed official statement on the operation so far. Further details, including the identities of the deceased and the circumstances of the encounter, are awaited from the security forces.

Two terrorists have been killed in a night-long encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district. Security forces have recovered arms and ammunition and intensified searches as concerns remain that more terrorists could be hiding nearby.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Brattal area of Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, security sources said on Thursday. According to the sources, security forces received intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a coordinated operation was launched on Wednesday. The operation continued through the night. As the operation resumed in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, two terrorists were killed, the sources said. Their bodies were subsequently recovered from the encounter site.

Two terrorists have been killed in a night-long encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district. Security forces have recovered arms and ammunition and intensified searches as concerns remain that more terrorists could be hiding nearby.

Two terrorists killed in Udhampur encounter; security operation continues

They are among Kashmir’s most recognisable symbols—one winding through the heart of Srinagar, the other spreading across the city’s landscape, reflecting mountains, houseboats and a tourism economy built around their waters. But the Jhelum and Dal Lake, two of the Kashmir Valley’s most important water bodies, are facing a mounting wastewater crisis, with untreated sewage, urban drainage and nutrient pollution placing increasing pressure on their ecological health.&nbsp;A scientific study estimates that Srinagar generates around 201 million litres of sewage every day, of which nearly 73 per cent, approximately 147 million litres, remains untreated and is discharged into Dal Lake or the Jhelum collectively.&nbsp;The figure comes from the study “Assessment of Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Dal Lake’s Trophic State,” published in the journal Water. For generations, Dal Lake and the Jhelum have been central to life in Srinagar. They support aquatic ecosystems, provide water resources and form the backdrop to one of the Valley’s most important tourism industries.&nbsp;But environmentalists say the same urban growth that has increased pressure on Srinagar’s infrastructure is now threatening the water bodies themselves.&nbsp;Environmental activist Tariq, who says he has obtained information on Srinagar’s pumping stations through the Right to Information Act, alleges that untreated wastewater from several parts of the city is being collected at pumping stations and subsequently discharged into drainage systems connected to the water bodies.&nbsp;“The problem is that we are still relying on sewage-treatment infrastructure that was built nearly 20 years ago, despite the huge growth in population. The result is visible in the deteriorating water quality, disrupted aquatic life and excessive algae caused by high nutrient loads. Open drains are still flowing directly into our water bodies. We have to treat this as an emergency and bring in experts to restore them. The deterioration I have witnessed over the last 20 years has gone from bad to worse, and if we delay further, tomorrow may be too late.” said Dr Touseef Bhat, Environmentalist.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Water study found that the lake’s trophic condition deteriorated between 2019 and 2023, with the lake classified as eutrophic by the end of the assessment period. Eutrophication occurs when excessive nutrients enter a water body, encouraging excessive growth of algae and other aquatic vegetation. Such changes can reduce water quality and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.&nbsp;The Jhelum, Srinagar’s principal river, is also receiving wastewater through multiple outfalls. An action-taken report submitted before the National Green Tribunal records 10 outfalls discharging into the Jhelum, with domestic and household wastewater among the recorded discharges.&nbsp;A Comptroller and Auditor General audit has also highlighted a fundamental weakness in Srinagar’s urban drainage infrastructure: the city does not have separate sewage and storm-water networks.If water quality continues to deteriorate, the consequences could eventually affect tourism, livelihoods, fisheries, public health and the wider ecological balance of the Valley.&nbsp;Tariq has been cleaning Dal Lake for the past 25 years, often accompanied by his young daughter Jannat, whose contribution to keeping the lake clean has also drawn appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. From that vantage point, Tariq says he has watched the lake deteriorate year after year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riyadh-warns-of-red-line-after-mecca-targeted-houthis-claim-downing-saudi-fighter-jet-what-s-happening-1789577562520">Riyadh warns of ‘red line’ after Mecca targeted; Houthis claim downing Saudi fighter jet – What’s happening?</a>&nbsp;“Over the last 20 years, I have seen the water body go from bad to worse. Waste is entering the lake from everywhere. "Untreated sewage is entering Dal Lake from every corner. There is still no proper drainage system across urban Srinagar, and wastewater from peripheral areas, open drains and residential areas is finding its way into the lake. Dal Lake has effectively become a drain. Despite the machines and sewage-treatment projects, the contamination continues, and the lake’s aquatic life is disappearing.” said Tariq Ahmad Patloo, Environmentalist and Dal Dweller.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has acknowledged that the crisis facing Kashmir’s water bodies is a major and longstanding concern—one that has intensified over the past two years. He said the problem cannot be resolved overnight but stressed that efforts are underway to protect and restore the region’s lakes and other water bodies.&nbsp;“This is not a problem that has arisen in just the last two years; it is a legacy issue. We cannot resolve it overnight, but we are working on it. Projects are being formulated under various schemes—whether it is the SA scheme or others—and the effort is to not only save our water bodies but also expand them,” Omar Abdullah said.&nbsp;Environmentalists have described cosmetic interventions as inadequate, calling instead for specialists with proven experience in restoring severely degraded lakes. For water bodies that are ecological assets, cultural symbols and tourism lifelines, the focus, they say, must shift from merely removing pollution to preventing sewage and waste from entering them in the first place.

Untreated sewage, inadequate drainage and rising nutrient pollution are putting growing pressure on Kashmir’s Dal Lake and Jhelum, threatening their ecosystems, livelihoods and tourism-dependent economy.

They are among Kashmir’s most recognisable symbols—one winding through the heart of Srinagar, the other spreading across the city’s landscape, reflecting mountains, houseboats and a tourism economy built around their waters. But the Jhelum and Dal Lake, two of the Kashmir Valley’s most important water bodies, are facing a mounting wastewater crisis, with untreated sewage, urban drainage and nutrient pollution placing increasing pressure on their ecological health. A scientific study estimates that Srinagar generates around 201 million litres of sewage every day, of which nearly 73 per cent, approximately 147 million litres, remains untreated and is discharged into Dal Lake or the Jhelum collectively. The figure comes from the study “Assessment of Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Dal Lake’s Trophic State,” published in the journal Water. For generations, Dal Lake and the Jhelum have been central to life in Srinagar. They support aquatic ecosystems, provide water resources and form the backdrop to one of the Valley’s most important tourism industries. But environmentalists say the same urban growth that has increased pressure on Srinagar’s infrastructure is now threatening the water bodies themselves. Environmental activist Tariq, who says he has obtained information on Srinagar’s pumping stations through the Right to Information Act, alleges that untreated wastewater from several parts of the city is being collected at pumping stations and subsequently discharged into drainage systems connected to the water bodies. “The problem is that we are still relying on sewage-treatment infrastructure that was built nearly 20 years ago, despite the huge growth in population. The result is visible in the deteriorating water quality, disrupted aquatic life and excessive algae caused by high nutrient loads. Open drains are still flowing directly into our water bodies. We have to treat this as an emergency and bring in experts to restore them. The deterioration I have witnessed over the last 20 years has gone from bad to worse, and if we delay further, tomorrow may be too late.” said Dr Touseef Bhat, Environmentalist. The Water study found that the lake’s trophic condition deteriorated between 2019 and 2023, with the lake classified as eutrophic by the end of the assessment period. Eutrophication occurs when excessive nutrients enter a water body, encouraging excessive growth of algae and other aquatic vegetation. Such changes can reduce water quality and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. The Jhelum, Srinagar’s principal river, is also receiving wastewater through multiple outfalls. An action-taken report submitted before the National Green Tribunal records 10 outfalls discharging into the Jhelum, with domestic and household wastewater among the recorded discharges. A Comptroller and Auditor General audit has also highlighted a fundamental weakness in Srinagar’s urban drainage infrastructure: the city does not have separate sewage and storm-water networks. If water quality continues to deteriorate, the consequences could eventually affect tourism, livelihoods, fisheries, public health and the wider ecological balance of the Valley. Tariq has been cleaning Dal Lake for the past 25 years, often accompanied by his young daughter Jannat, whose contribution to keeping the lake clean has also drawn appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. From that vantage point, Tariq says he has watched the lake deteriorate year after year. Also Read: Riyadh warns of ‘red line’ after Mecca targeted; Houthis claim downing Saudi fighter jet – What’s happening? “Over the last 20 years, I have seen the water body go from bad to worse. Waste is entering the lake from everywhere. "Untreated sewage is entering Dal Lake from every corner. There is still no proper drainage system across urban Srinagar, and wastewater from peripheral areas, open drains and residential areas is finding its way into the lake. Dal Lake has effectively become a drain. Despite the machines and sewage-treatment projects, the contamination continues, and the lake’s aquatic life is disappearing.” said Tariq Ahmad Patloo, Environmentalist and Dal Dweller. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has acknowledged that the crisis facing Kashmir’s water bodies is a major and longstanding concern—one that has intensified over the past two years. He said the problem cannot be resolved overnight but stressed that efforts are underway to protect and restore the region’s lakes and other water bodies. “This is not a problem that has arisen in just the last two years; it is a legacy issue. We cannot resolve it overnight, but we are working on it. Projects are being formulated under various schemes—whether it is the SA scheme or others—and the effort is to not only save our water bodies but also expand them,” Omar Abdullah said. Environmentalists have described cosmetic interventions as inadequate, calling instead for specialists with proven experience in restoring severely degraded lakes. For water bodies that are ecological assets, cultural symbols and tourism lifelines, the focus, they say, must shift from merely removing pollution to preventing sewage and waste from entering them in the first place.

Untreated sewage, inadequate drainage and rising nutrient pollution are putting growing pressure on Kashmir’s Dal Lake and Jhelum, threatening their ecosystems, livelihoods and tourism-dependent economy.

Kashmir’s water lifelines under sewage stress: Dal Lake, Jhelum face growing pollution threat

In a bid to turn areas along the Line of Control (LoC) into emerging tourist destinations and create new avenues of livelihood for local communities, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the District Administration Kupwara, has launched the three-week-long Keran Mela 2026 in the border village of Keran.The mega festival, which commenced on September 6 and will continue till September 27, seeks to showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage and distinctive border identity of the Keran Valley while promoting border tourism, local businesses and homestay initiatives.Located along the Kishanganga River in Kupwara district, Keran has emerged as a destination known for its scenic landscape and unique border setting. The presence of opposing national flags visible across the LoC adds to the area's distinctive appeal for visitors.The festival is being organised as part of efforts to strengthen the connection between the armed forces, civil administration and local residents, while creating greater opportunities for socio-economic development in the border region.A series of sporting competitions has been planned during the Mela, with local youth participating in cricket, volleyball, athletics, tug-of-war and the 'Run for Fun' event. The cultural programme features live instrumental music, traditional dances and other artistic performances highlighting the region's rich cultural heritage.Alongside entertainment and sporting activities, the festival also includes public-service initiatives. Dedicated counters have been established for medical screenings, career counselling, tourism guidance and drug de-addiction awareness.Stalls showcasing local handicrafts and organic agricultural produce have also been set up to provide visitors with an opportunity to explore products made by local communities. Tourism counters are additionally encouraging visitors to experience local hospitality through registered homestays.Officials said the initiative is aimed not only at attracting tourists to the border village but also at creating a platform for local residents to benefit from the growing tourism economy.The organisers also emphasised youth engagement, with the festival seeking to encourage young people to participate in sports and cultural activities, remain away from drugs and contribute positively to their communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian Army and Kupwara administration launched the three-week Keran Mela 2026 to boost border tourism, showcase cultural heritage, promote local homestays, and foster youth engagement along the Line of Control.

In a bid to turn areas along the Line of Control (LoC) into emerging tourist destinations and create new avenues of livelihood for local communities, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the District Administration Kupwara, has launched the three-week-long Keran Mela 2026 in the border village of Keran. The mega festival, which commenced on September 6 and will continue till September 27, seeks to showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage and distinctive border identity of the Keran Valley while promoting border tourism, local businesses and homestay initiatives. Located along the Kishanganga River in Kupwara district, Keran has emerged as a destination known for its scenic landscape and unique border setting. The presence of opposing national flags visible across the LoC adds to the area's distinctive appeal for visitors. The festival is being organised as part of efforts to strengthen the connection between the armed forces, civil administration and local residents, while creating greater opportunities for socio-economic development in the border region. A series of sporting competitions has been planned during the Mela, with local youth participating in cricket, volleyball, athletics, tug-of-war and the 'Run for Fun' event. The cultural programme features live instrumental music, traditional dances and other artistic performances highlighting the region's rich cultural heritage. Alongside entertainment and sporting activities, the festival also includes public-service initiatives. Dedicated counters have been established for medical screenings, career counselling, tourism guidance and drug de-addiction awareness. Stalls showcasing local handicrafts and organic agricultural produce have also been set up to provide visitors with an opportunity to explore products made by local communities. Tourism counters are additionally encouraging visitors to experience local hospitality through registered homestays. Officials said the initiative is aimed not only at attracting tourists to the border village but also at creating a platform for local residents to benefit from the growing tourism economy. The organisers also emphasised youth engagement, with the festival seeking to encourage young people to participate in sports and cultural activities, remain away from drugs and contribute positively to their communities.

The Indian Army and Kupwara administration launched the three-week Keran Mela 2026 to boost border tourism, showcase cultural heritage, promote local homestays, and foster youth engagement along the Line of Control.

Indian Army pushes border tourism in Keran with three-week mela

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has questioned attempts to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) separately in different states, arguing that an issue intended to apply uniformly across the country should be debated and legislated upon by Parliament. Referring to the National Conference’s position on the issue, Abdullah said the party’s Rajya Sabha MP, Shammi Oberoi, had maintained that Parliament was the appropriate forum to legislate on the Uniform Civil Code.&nbsp;“If the government has the numbers, it should bring the matter before Parliament rather than trying to implement it separately in different states,” Abdullah said.&nbsp;Abdullah also questioned whether there was complete support for the proposal within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), citing reports that the Janata Dal (United) has indicated that the UCC would not be implemented in Bihar. “If their own alliance partners are not prepared to support it, how can they claim that it should be implemented across the entire country?” he asked.&nbsp;He challenged the government to introduce a UCC Bill in Parliament and test its support among lawmakers. “They should bring the Bill to Parliament rather than taking the backdoor route. Let us see whether they actually have the numbers to pass it,” Abdullah said.&nbsp;The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister further argued that implementing the UCC only in BJP-ruled states would undermine its claim of being a truly uniform national measure. “As I said, it is not universal if it does not apply to the whole country. The whole country is not governed by the BJP. There are a number of states and territories where the BJP is not in power. Therefore, if you apply it only in BJP-ruled states, it cannot be called a universal measure,” he said.&nbsp;On the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC), Abdullah welcomed any move aimed at reducing tensions and military deployments, particularly for people living in border areas. “Anything that reduces tension is a good step, particularly for people living close to these areas,” he said. Abdullah said residents living near the LoC and LAC face considerable difficulties and that any reduction in deployments along the Line of Actual Control would be a positive development. &nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah said the Uniform Civil Code should be debated and legislated by Parliament rather than implemented separately by states. He questioned NDA support for the proposal and said a UCC applied only in BJP-ruled states cannot be called universal.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has questioned attempts to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) separately in different states, arguing that an issue intended to apply uniformly across the country should be debated and legislated upon by Parliament. Referring to the National Conference’s position on the issue, Abdullah said the party’s Rajya Sabha MP, Shammi Oberoi, had maintained that Parliament was the appropriate forum to legislate on the Uniform Civil Code. “If the government has the numbers, it should bring the matter before Parliament rather than trying to implement it separately in different states,” Abdullah said. Abdullah also questioned whether there was complete support for the proposal within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), citing reports that the Janata Dal (United) has indicated that the UCC would not be implemented in Bihar. “If their own alliance partners are not prepared to support it, how can they claim that it should be implemented across the entire country?” he asked. He challenged the government to introduce a UCC Bill in Parliament and test its support among lawmakers. “They should bring the Bill to Parliament rather than taking the backdoor route. Let us see whether they actually have the numbers to pass it,” Abdullah said. The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister further argued that implementing the UCC only in BJP-ruled states would undermine its claim of being a truly uniform national measure. “As I said, it is not universal if it does not apply to the whole country. The whole country is not governed by the BJP. There are a number of states and territories where the BJP is not in power. Therefore, if you apply it only in BJP-ruled states, it cannot be called a universal measure,” he said. On the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC), Abdullah welcomed any move aimed at reducing tensions and military deployments, particularly for people living in border areas. “Anything that reduces tension is a good step, particularly for people living close to these areas,” he said. Abdullah said residents living near the LoC and LAC face considerable difficulties and that any reduction in deployments along the Line of Actual Control would be a positive development.

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah said the Uniform Civil Code should be debated and legislated by Parliament rather than implemented separately by states. He questioned NDA support for the proposal and said a UCC applied only in BJP-ruled states cannot be called universal.

UCC should be decided by Parliament, not individual states: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar: A controversy over the distribution of Tahri, Nazr-o-Niyaz and bird feeding at shrines in Jammu and Kashmir has triggered an uproar, with political leaders, devotees and community members stressing that centuries-old religious traditions cannot be dealt with in a manner that risks hurting people’s sentiments.&nbsp;The controversy erupted after remarks attributed to Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi regarding the distribution of Tahri and feeding of birds at Dargahs went viral on social media. The remarks sparked reactions from sections of the public, who argued that offering food and feeding birds at shrines are deeply rooted practices associated with faith, devotion and tradition.&nbsp;However, Andrabi has since clarified that Tahri has not been completely banned, saying the restriction applies only to bringing and distributing it inside Dargah premises.&nbsp;She explained that devotees can continue bringing Nazr-o-Niyaz, Tahri and other offerings but should distribute them at designated sheds and spaces created outside the shrine premises.&nbsp;Andrabi said the arrangement was intended to maintain cleanliness and preserve the sanctity of shrine premises, rather than interfere with religious practices.&nbsp;Despite the clarification, the controversy has opened a wider debate over how religious traditions should be managed at shrines without offending the sentiments of devotees.&nbsp;PDP leader Iqbal Tramboo said he did not agree with stopping practices that have been followed for generations, arguing that better cleanliness and management should be the solution.&nbsp;“I actually don’t agree with what she has said,” Tramboo said, while pointing out that practices such as bird feeding and distribution of food are seen at religious places across the world.&nbsp;“Even if you go to Mecca and Medina, there also you will see bird feeding is done,” he said, adding that similar traditions have continued around shrines for hundreds of years.&nbsp;According to Tramboo, religious sentiments are deeply attached to such practices, and authorities should focus on management rather than stopping them.“Despite all of this, cleanliness is always looked after. The staff is so efficient that you will see absolute cleanliness. That’s what needs to be done in our shrine,” he said.&nbsp;He argued that improving the efficiency of staff and ensuring proper arrangements would be a better remedy.&nbsp;“That’s the remedy. This is not a remedy to stop the act, particularly with which our emotions or sentiments are connected,” Tramboo said.&nbsp;He cautioned that authorities need to be particularly careful when dealing with religious traditions.&nbsp;Abdul Aziz, a devotee, said distributing yellow rice, or Tahri, and feeding birds at times of difficulty is an established tradition for many people.&nbsp;“Whenever we are facing problems, this is a tradition to come here to distribute yellow rice or feed the birds. This also gives us satisfaction,” Aziz said.&nbsp;He said people have continued the practice for years and often bring whatever they can afford as an offering.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tariq Bedaba said the Waqf Board Chairperson’s remarks may have been misunderstood or misquoted, arguing that there was no blanket ban on Tahri or the distribution of offerings.“I think the Waqf Board has been misquoted a little. She meant not to litter around,” Bedaba said.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said devotees should continue to be allowed to distribute Tehri, or yellow rice, while ensuring that the practice does not create hygiene or cleanliness problems.Bedaba also defended bird feeding as a religiously rooted practice. “Bird feeding is a part of our religion. No one in the world can stop us from doing this,” he said.At the same time, he suggested that devotees exercise caution about where they place bird feed.&nbsp;Tanvir Sadiq of National Conference, meanwhile, said the traditions surrounding shrines predate the present institutional arrangements and cannot be viewed as practices that began with any particular administration.&nbsp;“Our traditions and culture did not begin in 2019, nor with the present Waqf Board,” Tanvir said.&nbsp;“People have offered Niyaz, Tahri and food at shrines for generations. We grew up seeing it,” he said, describing the practices as being rooted in generations of faith and devotion.&nbsp;Tanvir said the focus should be on providing alternatives and improving management rather than imposing blanket restrictions.&nbsp;The controversy has therefore brought two concerns into sharp focus: the need to maintain cleanliness, hygiene and the sanctity of shrine premises, and the importance of protecting traditions that devotees regard as an integral part of their faith.

The controversy erupted after remarks attributed to Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi regarding the distribution of Tahri and feeding of birds at Dargahs went viral on social media.

Srinagar: A controversy over the distribution of Tahri, Nazr-o-Niyaz and bird feeding at shrines in Jammu and Kashmir has triggered an uproar, with political leaders, devotees and community members stressing that centuries-old religious traditions cannot be dealt with in a manner that risks hurting people’s sentiments. The controversy erupted after remarks attributed to Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi regarding the distribution of Tahri and feeding of birds at Dargahs went viral on social media. The remarks sparked reactions from sections of the public, who argued that offering food and feeding birds at shrines are deeply rooted practices associated with faith, devotion and tradition. However, Andrabi has since clarified that Tahri has not been completely banned, saying the restriction applies only to bringing and distributing it inside Dargah premises. She explained that devotees can continue bringing Nazr-o-Niyaz, Tahri and other offerings but should distribute them at designated sheds and spaces created outside the shrine premises. Andrabi said the arrangement was intended to maintain cleanliness and preserve the sanctity of shrine premises, rather than interfere with religious practices. Despite the clarification, the controversy has opened a wider debate over how religious traditions should be managed at shrines without offending the sentiments of devotees. PDP leader Iqbal Tramboo said he did not agree with stopping practices that have been followed for generations, arguing that better cleanliness and management should be the solution. “I actually don’t agree with what she has said,” Tramboo said, while pointing out that practices such as bird feeding and distribution of food are seen at religious places across the world. “Even if you go to Mecca and Medina, there also you will see bird feeding is done,” he said, adding that similar traditions have continued around shrines for hundreds of years. According to Tramboo, religious sentiments are deeply attached to such practices, and authorities should focus on management rather than stopping them. “Despite all of this, cleanliness is always looked after. The staff is so efficient that you will see absolute cleanliness. That’s what needs to be done in our shrine,” he said. He argued that improving the efficiency of staff and ensuring proper arrangements would be a better remedy. “That’s the remedy. This is not a remedy to stop the act, particularly with which our emotions or sentiments are connected,” Tramboo said. He cautioned that authorities need to be particularly careful when dealing with religious traditions. Abdul Aziz, a devotee, said distributing yellow rice, or Tahri, and feeding birds at times of difficulty is an established tradition for many people. “Whenever we are facing problems, this is a tradition to come here to distribute yellow rice or feed the birds. This also gives us satisfaction,” Aziz said. He said people have continued the practice for years and often bring whatever they can afford as an offering. Meanwhile, Tariq Bedaba said the Waqf Board Chairperson’s remarks may have been misunderstood or misquoted, arguing that there was no blanket ban on Tahri or the distribution of offerings. “I think the Waqf Board has been misquoted a little. She meant not to litter around,” Bedaba said. He said devotees should continue to be allowed to distribute Tehri, or yellow rice, while ensuring that the practice does not create hygiene or cleanliness problems. Bedaba also defended bird feeding as a religiously rooted practice. “Bird feeding is a part of our religion. No one in the world can stop us from doing this,” he said. At the same time, he suggested that devotees exercise caution about where they place bird feed. Tanvir Sadiq of National Conference, meanwhile, said the traditions surrounding shrines predate the present institutional arrangements and cannot be viewed as practices that began with any particular administration. “Our traditions and culture did not begin in 2019, nor with the present Waqf Board,” Tanvir said. “People have offered Niyaz, Tahri and food at shrines for generations. We grew up seeing it,” he said, describing the practices as being rooted in generations of faith and devotion. Tanvir said the focus should be on providing alternatives and improving management rather than imposing blanket restrictions. The controversy has therefore brought two concerns into sharp focus: the need to maintain cleanliness, hygiene and the sanctity of shrine premises, and the importance of protecting traditions that devotees regard as an integral part of their faith.

The controversy erupted after remarks attributed to Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi regarding the distribution of Tahri and feeding of birds at Dargahs went viral on social media.

‘Our traditions did not begin in...’: NC leader Tanvir Sadiq joins shrine practices debate

Ensuring foolproof security arrangements across all districts of the Kashmir Valley remained a key focus as Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar reviewed the security and operational preparedness in Baramulla and Sopore, directing officers to maintain sustained pressure on terrorists and their support ecosystem.The IGP chaired separate security review meetings in District Baramulla and Police District Sopore, taking stock of the prevailing security situation, counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, law and order preparedness, crime situation and the overall operational readiness of the police.&nbsp;He was accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range, Dr Vinod Kumar-IPS. During his visit to Baramulla, the IGP paid homage to fallen police personnel at the Martyrs’ Memorial at District Police Lines, remembering their supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beyond-the-barracks-how-the-army-s-mission-in-j-k-is-reaching-classrooms-and-communities-1789126540346">Beyond the barracks: How the army’s mission in J&amp;K is reaching classrooms and communities</a>&nbsp;At the security review meeting, SSP Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh briefed the IGP on ongoing counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, area domination measures, security of vulnerable locations, law and order preparedness and the crime situation.Gazetted officers of Baramulla Police also briefed the IGP about their respective areas of responsibility and operational assignments.&nbsp;Sujit Kumar stressed the need to strengthen intelligence generation at the grassroots level and conduct intelligence-based operations against terrorists and the terror ecosystem. He called for a proactive and coordinated approach while maintaining sustained operational pressure.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/recent-fresh-threat-letters-trigger-protest-kashmiri-pandit-employees-demand-immediate-shift-to-zewan-transit-camp-1788943695915">Recent fresh threat letters trigger protest: Kashmiri Pandit employees demand immediate shift to Zewan transit camp</a>&nbsp;The IGP also emphasised effective surveillance, strengthened naka and interception mechanisms and close coordination among field formations to further strengthen the security grid.&nbsp;Later, he inspected Police Station Baramulla and reviewed its functioning, directing officers and personnel to ensure professional and responsive policing, effective crime prevention and investigation, proper maintenance of records and prompt redressal of public grievances.&nbsp;In Police District Sopore, SSP Iftikhar Talib-JKPS, along with SDPOs and DySsP Operations, briefed the IGP on the security situation and measures being undertaken across the district.&nbsp;Concluding his visit, IGP Kashmir appreciated the efforts of officers and personnel in Baramulla and Sopore and urged them to remain vigilant, professional and committed towards maintaining peace and security in the Kashmir Valley. &nbsp;

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar has affirmed that maintaining a robust security grid and anti-terror operations across the Valley remain top priorities. 

Ensuring foolproof security arrangements across all districts of the Kashmir Valley remained a key focus as Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar reviewed the security and operational preparedness in Baramulla and Sopore, directing officers to maintain sustained pressure on terrorists and their support ecosystem. The IGP chaired separate security review meetings in District Baramulla and Police District Sopore, taking stock of the prevailing security situation, counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, law and order preparedness, crime situation and the overall operational readiness of the police. He was accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range, Dr Vinod Kumar-IPS. During his visit to Baramulla, the IGP paid homage to fallen police personnel at the Martyrs’ Memorial at District Police Lines, remembering their supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. Also read: Beyond the barracks: How the army’s mission in J&K is reaching classrooms and communities At the security review meeting, SSP Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh briefed the IGP on ongoing counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, area domination measures, security of vulnerable locations, law and order preparedness and the crime situation. Gazetted officers of Baramulla Police also briefed the IGP about their respective areas of responsibility and operational assignments. Sujit Kumar stressed the need to strengthen intelligence generation at the grassroots level and conduct intelligence-based operations against terrorists and the terror ecosystem. He called for a proactive and coordinated approach while maintaining sustained operational pressure. Also read: Recent fresh threat letters trigger protest: Kashmiri Pandit employees demand immediate shift to Zewan transit camp The IGP also emphasised effective surveillance, strengthened naka and interception mechanisms and close coordination among field formations to further strengthen the security grid. Later, he inspected Police Station Baramulla and reviewed its functioning, directing officers and personnel to ensure professional and responsive policing, effective crime prevention and investigation, proper maintenance of records and prompt redressal of public grievances. In Police District Sopore, SSP Iftikhar Talib-JKPS, along with SDPOs and DySsP Operations, briefed the IGP on the security situation and measures being undertaken across the district. Concluding his visit, IGP Kashmir appreciated the efforts of officers and personnel in Baramulla and Sopore and urged them to remain vigilant, professional and committed towards maintaining peace and security in the Kashmir Valley.

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar has affirmed that maintaining a robust security grid and anti-terror operations across the Valley remain top priorities.

Foolproof security across Kashmir Valley top priority: IGP Sujit Kumar

For eight days, the cricket ground in Baramulla became more than just a venue for competition. It became a stage where women cricketers from across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh could showcase their talent, test themselves against stronger opposition and, perhaps most importantly, begin to see a future for themselves in the sport.&nbsp;The Chinar Women’s Premier League (CWPL) 2026, which concluded in Baramulla saw Anantnag Rebels lift the title after defeating Shopian Harvesters by 30 runs in the final. But beyond the trophy and the final score, the tournament marked a significant step forward in creating a dedicated platform for women athletes in the region.&nbsp;Bringing together 12 teams including 10 district teams from Kashmir and regional sides representing Jammu and Ladakh, the league offered emerging players an opportunity that can often be difficult to find: regular, competitive cricket in a high-profile setting.&nbsp;For many young players, sharing the field with experienced cricketers was as valuable as the matches themselves. The tournament featured a strong pool of talent, including a player with international representation, six cricketers with senior Ranji Trophy/state-level experience, four with Under-23 experience and two with Under-19 experience.&nbsp;That mix of experience and emerging talent gave younger players an opportunity to learn directly from established cricketers, understand the demands of competitive sport and gain confidence under pressure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beyond-the-barracks-how-the-army-s-mission-in-j-k-is-reaching-classrooms-and-communities-1789126540346">Beyond the barracks: How the army’s mission in J&amp;K is reaching classrooms and communities</a>&nbsp;Throughout the tournament, the players displayed determination, discipline and competitive spirit, offering a visible example to students, families and aspiring athletes across the region. For young girls watching from the stands or following the competition, the message was clear: there is a place for them on the cricket field too.&nbsp;The concluding ceremony was attended by Major General Manoj Joshi, GOC 19 Infantry Division (Dagger Division), Baramulla, who was the Chief Guest. Senior officials and dignitaries were also present to encourage the participating players and witness the culmination of the eight-day competition.&nbsp;The significance of the league extends beyond its immediate participants. By bringing together players from different districts and regions and placing them alongside cricketers with higher-level experience, the tournament helped bridge the gap between grassroots sport and elite competition.&nbsp;For young women trying to make their way in cricket, such exposure can be transformative.&nbsp;Competitive matches help players understand where they stand, identify areas for improvement and develop the confidence required to progress to higher levels.

The Chinar Women’s Premier League 2026 gave women cricketers from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh a competitive platform to showcase their talent, gain experience and pursue bigger opportunities in the sport.

For eight days, the cricket ground in Baramulla became more than just a venue for competition. It became a stage where women cricketers from across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh could showcase their talent, test themselves against stronger opposition and, perhaps most importantly, begin to see a future for themselves in the sport. The Chinar Women’s Premier League (CWPL) 2026, which concluded in Baramulla saw Anantnag Rebels lift the title after defeating Shopian Harvesters by 30 runs in the final. But beyond the trophy and the final score, the tournament marked a significant step forward in creating a dedicated platform for women athletes in the region. Bringing together 12 teams including 10 district teams from Kashmir and regional sides representing Jammu and Ladakh, the league offered emerging players an opportunity that can often be difficult to find: regular, competitive cricket in a high-profile setting. For many young players, sharing the field with experienced cricketers was as valuable as the matches themselves. The tournament featured a strong pool of talent, including a player with international representation, six cricketers with senior Ranji Trophy/state-level experience, four with Under-23 experience and two with Under-19 experience. That mix of experience and emerging talent gave younger players an opportunity to learn directly from established cricketers, understand the demands of competitive sport and gain confidence under pressure. Also Read: Beyond the barracks: How the army’s mission in J&K is reaching classrooms and communities Throughout the tournament, the players displayed determination, discipline and competitive spirit, offering a visible example to students, families and aspiring athletes across the region. For young girls watching from the stands or following the competition, the message was clear: there is a place for them on the cricket field too. The concluding ceremony was attended by Major General Manoj Joshi, GOC 19 Infantry Division (Dagger Division), Baramulla, who was the Chief Guest. Senior officials and dignitaries were also present to encourage the participating players and witness the culmination of the eight-day competition. The significance of the league extends beyond its immediate participants. By bringing together players from different districts and regions and placing them alongside cricketers with higher-level experience, the tournament helped bridge the gap between grassroots sport and elite competition. For young women trying to make their way in cricket, such exposure can be transformative. Competitive matches help players understand where they stand, identify areas for improvement and develop the confidence required to progress to higher levels.

The Chinar Women’s Premier League 2026 gave women cricketers from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh a competitive platform to showcase their talent, gain experience and pursue bigger opportunities in the sport.

From district grounds to bigger dreams: CWPL gives women cricketers a stage

In Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army’s role is increasingly being seen not only through the prism of security, but also through classrooms, laboratories and the aspirations of a younger generation looking towards a changing future.At Army Goodwill School (AGS), Pahalgam, that broader mission was reflected as students, teachers, parents, Army officials and civil dignitaries gathered to celebrate academic achievement.For the Army, the occasion was about much more than felicitation. It offered a glimpse into an approach that seeks to combine its traditional responsibility of maintaining peace and security with efforts aimed at education, youth development and community engagement.General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma said the Army’s commitment to Jammu and Kashmir extends to the aspirations and success of its people.“As the country moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, Northern Command would continue to contribute towards nation-building while ensuring peace and tranquillity in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.His message was direct: “Your peace is our purpose, your aspirations are our missions, and your success is our pride.”That statement captures an aspect of the Army’s presence in the region that often receives less attention: the attempt to build bridges with communities through initiatives that put young people at the centre.The Army Goodwill Schools are an important part of this effort. Established as an initiative to provide quality education and greater opportunities to children in Jammu and Kashmir, the schools have developed into platforms where academic learning is increasingly being combined with exposure to innovation, science and extracurricular activities.Students of AGS Wuzur and AGS Uri have performed at the national level, with AGS Wuzur securing third position and AGS Uri sixth position in Young Scientist India 2025. AGS Wuzur has also found a place among the top 10 schools in the Innovation category.In his address, Lt Gen Sharma specifically praised the students while acknowledging the role of parents and teachers in developing their talent, confidence and character.GOC Chinar Corps Lieutenant General Balbir Singh and members of its Board of Governors were among those present.&nbsp;

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma said the Army’s commitment to Jammu and Kashmir extends to the aspirations and success of its people.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army’s role is increasingly being seen not only through the prism of security, but also through classrooms, laboratories and the aspirations of a younger generation looking towards a changing future. At Army Goodwill School (AGS), Pahalgam, that broader mission was reflected as students, teachers, parents, Army officials and civil dignitaries gathered to celebrate academic achievement. For the Army, the occasion was about much more than felicitation. It offered a glimpse into an approach that seeks to combine its traditional responsibility of maintaining peace and security with efforts aimed at education, youth development and community engagement. General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma said the Army’s commitment to Jammu and Kashmir extends to the aspirations and success of its people. “As the country moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, Northern Command would continue to contribute towards nation-building while ensuring peace and tranquillity in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. His message was direct: “Your peace is our purpose, your aspirations are our missions, and your success is our pride.” That statement captures an aspect of the Army’s presence in the region that often receives less attention: the attempt to build bridges with communities through initiatives that put young people at the centre. The Army Goodwill Schools are an important part of this effort. Established as an initiative to provide quality education and greater opportunities to children in Jammu and Kashmir, the schools have developed into platforms where academic learning is increasingly being combined with exposure to innovation, science and extracurricular activities. Students of AGS Wuzur and AGS Uri have performed at the national level, with AGS Wuzur securing third position and AGS Uri sixth position in Young Scientist India 2025. AGS Wuzur has also found a place among the top 10 schools in the Innovation category. In his address, Lt Gen Sharma specifically praised the students while acknowledging the role of parents and teachers in developing their talent, confidence and character. GOC Chinar Corps Lieutenant General Balbir Singh and members of its Board of Governors were among those present.

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma said the Army’s commitment to Jammu and Kashmir extends to the aspirations and success of its people.

Beyond the barracks: How the army’s mission in J&K is reaching classrooms and communities

The Jammu and Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum has announced a province-wide protest in Kashmir on September 22 if the government fails to address their demands, including the implementation of a committee report on their grievances. Speaking during the second phase of the forum’s protest, Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&amp;K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said the government had promised in the Assembly to constitute a committee to examine the worker issues and submit its report within six months, but 18 months had passed without the report being presented.&nbsp;The worker demanded that the committee’s report be placed before the Assembly and implemented after approval. The workers also questioned what they described as a disparity between the treatment of elected representatives and that of low-paid daily wagers.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiri-pandit-employees-fresh-threat-zewan-accommodation-srinagar-1789035637676">Kashmiri Pandit employees face fresh threat after wednesday’s Srinagar protest</a>&nbsp;“If MLAs can raise their salaries from ₹1 lakh to ₹3 lakh, why can’t they think about poor people who are surviving on meagre salaries?” &nbsp;Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&amp;K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum , questioning how employees earning around ₹2500–₹9000 could cope with medical expenses, medicines, household costs and rising inflation.&nbsp;Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&amp;K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said that if elected representatives could demand higher salaries and benefits such as the Old Pension Scheme, daily wagers and casual workers should also be considered for similar benefits.“Do they not have stomachs to feed? Are they not human beings?” Sajjad Parrey asked, arguing that workers were also citizens with families and dependents. The forum also accused the government of failing to honour commitments made to workers and said they had been left with no option but to take to the streets. Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&amp;K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said daily wagers had supported the government through their votes but were now being “humiliated” and “forced” into protests.&nbsp;“If the government does not take a decision regarding our future in the upcoming Assembly session, does not address our expenses and discrepancies, and does not present the committee’s report, we have given a call for a strike and protest across Kashmir province on September 22,” &nbsp;Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&amp;K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-becomes-new-flashpoint-between-congress-and-nc-in-j-k-1788954614998">Vande Mataram becomes new flashpoint between Congress and NC in J&amp;K</a>&nbsp;The forum claimed that more than 50,000 daily wagers are currently working in various government departments and alleged that the functioning of several departments depends heavily on their services.&nbsp;He further claimed that around 90 percent of contractual employees in the departments had already retired, leaving daily wagers to shoulder much of the workload.The forum warned the government against repeating what the worker described as the “mistake” of 2014, saying that any consequences arising from further escalation of the agitation would be the government’s responsibility.&nbsp;“We will speak out and we will rise against this injustice,” the worker said, adding that the workers’ struggle and preparations would continue until their demands were resolved.

J&K daily wagers have announced a province-wide protest, slamming the government over proposed MLA salary hikes while their long-pending regularisation and pay issues remain unresolved.

The Jammu and Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum has announced a province-wide protest in Kashmir on September 22 if the government fails to address their demands, including the implementation of a committee report on their grievances. Speaking during the second phase of the forum’s protest, Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said the government had promised in the Assembly to constitute a committee to examine the worker issues and submit its report within six months, but 18 months had passed without the report being presented. The worker demanded that the committee’s report be placed before the Assembly and implemented after approval. The workers also questioned what they described as a disparity between the treatment of elected representatives and that of low-paid daily wagers. Also read: Kashmiri Pandit employees face fresh threat after wednesday’s Srinagar protest “If MLAs can raise their salaries from ₹1 lakh to ₹3 lakh, why can’t they think about poor people who are surviving on meagre salaries?” Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum , questioning how employees earning around ₹2500–₹9000 could cope with medical expenses, medicines, household costs and rising inflation. Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said that if elected representatives could demand higher salaries and benefits such as the Old Pension Scheme, daily wagers and casual workers should also be considered for similar benefits. “Do they not have stomachs to feed? Are they not human beings?” Sajjad Parrey asked, arguing that workers were also citizens with families and dependents. The forum also accused the government of failing to honour commitments made to workers and said they had been left with no option but to take to the streets. Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said daily wagers had supported the government through their votes but were now being “humiliated” and “forced” into protests. “If the government does not take a decision regarding our future in the upcoming Assembly session, does not address our expenses and discrepancies, and does not present the committee’s report, we have given a call for a strike and protest across Kashmir province on September 22,” Sajjad Ahmed Parrey, President of the J&K Casual/Daily Wagers Forum said. Also read: Vande Mataram becomes new flashpoint between Congress and NC in J&K The forum claimed that more than 50,000 daily wagers are currently working in various government departments and alleged that the functioning of several departments depends heavily on their services. He further claimed that around 90 percent of contractual employees in the departments had already retired, leaving daily wagers to shoulder much of the workload. The forum warned the government against repeating what the worker described as the “mistake” of 2014, saying that any consequences arising from further escalation of the agitation would be the government’s responsibility. “We will speak out and we will rise against this injustice,” the worker said, adding that the workers’ struggle and preparations would continue until their demands were resolved.

J&amp;K daily wagers have announced a province-wide protest, slamming the government over proposed MLA salary hikes while their long-pending regularisation and pay issues remain unresolved.

J&K daily wagers announce province-wide protest, question salary hikes for MLAs

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Idrees Lone

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.