An eight-year-old girl, Hurmat Irshad from North Kashmir's Sopore area has become an internet sensation overnight. Hurmat's video of playing cricket like an ace cricketer has caught the attention of cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mithali Raj. Hurmat, a student of class 3 has a dream of joining the Indian Women's Cricket team and playing on the international stage. It was Hurmat's grandfather who used to take her to a nearby playground at the age of 4 to play cricket. She has been watching Mithali Raj's videos and cricket matches and is highly inspired by her.

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Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face. <a href="https://t.co/LaQv9ymWRx">https://t.co/LaQv9ymWRx</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1774040212957749277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Cricketing&nbsp;Legend Sachin Tendulkar took to X and said ''Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face.''

Former captain of India's women's cricket team Mithali Raj also praised Hurmat for her cricketing skills and said ''Delighted to see this girl's talent, passion, and determination for cricket at such a young age. Keep going strong, Hurmat.''

''I have been playing cricket for the last 3 years, I love playing cricket. I play with boys, and I like it a lot. It was my grandfather who taught me how to play cricket. I have not played with girls but only boys. My video has gone viral, and I want to be a cricketer and make my country proud, '' Hurmat Irshad further said.

Hurmat has been practicing daily for hours and especially working on perfecting her favourite cover drive shot. She has shown immense dedication towards learning the sport. Hurmat's family has been extremely supportive of her playing the sport. They are proud that her efforts have been recognised by cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mithali Raj. Her School teachers are also proud of her and have decided to give her a one-year scholarship.

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''It's a proud moment for the whole Prime Public School and the whole area. We saw her video and we already knew that she is talented. It was after the video we decided that we would do our best to support her for her love towards cricket. We have also decided to give her a one-year scholarship so that she can pursue her dream,'' said her teacher.

The professional cricketers from the valley have lauded the talent of the young girl and said that it also shows how much talent the Kashmir Valley possesses.

An eight-year-old girl, Hurmat Irshad from North Kashmir's Sopore area has become an internet sensation overnight. Hurmat's video of playing cricket like an ace cricketer has caught the attention of cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mithali Raj.

An eight-year-old girl, Hurmat Irshad from North Kashmir's Sopore area has become an internet sensation overnight. Hurmat's video of playing cricket like an ace cricketer has caught the attention of cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mithali Raj. Hurmat, a student of class 3 has a dream of joining the Indian Women's Cricket team and playing on the international stage. It was Hurmat's grandfather who used to take her to a nearby playground at the age of 4 to play cricket. She has been watching Mithali Raj's videos and cricket matches and is highly inspired by her. Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face. https://t.co/LaQv9ymWRx — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) March 30, 2024 × The Cricketing Legend Sachin Tendulkar took to X and said ''Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face.'' Former captain of India's women's cricket team Mithali Raj also praised Hurmat for her cricketing skills and said ''Delighted to see this girl's talent, passion, and determination for cricket at such a young age. Keep going strong, Hurmat.'' ''I have been playing cricket for the last 3 years, I love playing cricket. I play with boys, and I like it a lot. It was my grandfather who taught me how to play cricket. I have not played with girls but only boys. My video has gone viral, and I want to be a cricketer and make my country proud, '' Hurmat Irshad further said. Hurmat has been practicing daily for hours and especially working on perfecting her favourite cover drive shot. She has shown immense dedication towards learning the sport. Hurmat's family has been extremely supportive of her playing the sport. They are proud that her efforts have been recognised by cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Mithali Raj. Her School teachers are also proud of her and have decided to give her a one-year scholarship. ALSO READ | Premier League: Mikel Arteta happy with back-up players keeping Arsenal in title race ''It's a proud moment for the whole Prime Public School and the whole area. We saw her video and we already knew that she is talented. It was after the video we decided that we would do our best to support her for her love towards cricket. We have also decided to give her a one-year scholarship so that she can pursue her dream,'' said her teacher. The professional cricketers from the valley have lauded the talent of the young girl and said that it also shows how much talent the Kashmir Valley possesses.

Meet Kashmir's young cricket sensation Hurmat Irshad, applauded by Sachin Tendulkar

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways.&nbsp;

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference.

She also said that PDP will contest all three seats in the Kashmir valley while no decision has been taken so far with regard to the Jammu region. She also said that the announcement about the candidates will be done in a couple of days by the party.&nbsp;

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''It was very important for all of us to go together looking at the current situation in the Valley. In Mumbai, during the INDIA alliance meeting, I categorically had said that Dr Farooq Abdullah is our senior leader and whatever he decides with regard to Jammu and Kashmir will be acceptable to all of us. I was hoping he would take a decision beyond party benefits. And even if they had to take the same decision and they thought they had better candidates, they would have just communicated it to us. Omar Abdullah without even consulting us made statements in the media that PDP doesn't exist anymore, Mehbooba Mufti has come on number four, due to that my workers have been demotivated. It was a harsh statement by Omar. I am left with no choice but with modesty we will have our own candidates fighting for elections," said Mufti.

While Mehbooba said that National Conference leader left no choice for them but to go solo, Omar Abdullah reacted to it and said that he made no remarks about PDP and its their choice if they want to fight for seats in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

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''I’ve made no remarks about Mehbooba’s party. I’ve nothing to say on this. It’s her choice if she wants to contest for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Based on their formula we announced candidates. We had told them that based on DDC elections we should decide on the candidates for Lok Sabha. PDP had insisted that we go by the 2014 assembly election results. Wherever we had won, we picked our candidates. We had kept doors open but it seems she has closed them. Seems like there wouldn’t be an assembly alliance as well,'' said Omar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NC has nominated Mian Altaf as their candidate from South Kashmir and likely will have an alliance with the Congress in Jammu region. PDP has decided to field candidates in Kashmir Valley while they might also support Congress candidates in the Jammu region.

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference.

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference. She also said that PDP will contest all three seats in the Kashmir valley while no decision has been taken so far with regard to the Jammu region. She also said that the announcement about the candidates will be done in a couple of days by the party. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi files nomination from southern India's Wayanad ''It was very important for all of us to go together looking at the current situation in the Valley. In Mumbai, during the INDIA alliance meeting, I categorically had said that Dr Farooq Abdullah is our senior leader and whatever he decides with regard to Jammu and Kashmir will be acceptable to all of us. I was hoping he would take a decision beyond party benefits. And even if they had to take the same decision and they thought they had better candidates, they would have just communicated it to us. Omar Abdullah without even consulting us made statements in the media that PDP doesn't exist anymore, Mehbooba Mufti has come on number four, due to that my workers have been demotivated. It was a harsh statement by Omar. I am left with no choice but with modesty we will have our own candidates fighting for elections," said Mufti. While Mehbooba said that National Conference leader left no choice for them but to go solo, Omar Abdullah reacted to it and said that he made no remarks about PDP and its their choice if they want to fight for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: India: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav defends dad Lalu’s ‘parivaar’ jibe at PM Modi, ''I’ve made no remarks about Mehbooba’s party. I’ve nothing to say on this. It’s her choice if she wants to contest for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Based on their formula we announced candidates. We had told them that based on DDC elections we should decide on the candidates for Lok Sabha. PDP had insisted that we go by the 2014 assembly election results. Wherever we had won, we picked our candidates. We had kept doors open but it seems she has closed them. Seems like there wouldn’t be an assembly alliance as well,'' said Omar. Meanwhile, NC has nominated Mian Altaf as their candidate from South Kashmir and likely will have an alliance with the Congress in Jammu region. PDP has decided to field candidates in Kashmir Valley while they might also support Congress candidates in the Jammu region.

No INDIA alliance in J&K: Mehbooba Mufti’s PDP to contest all 3 Lok Sabha seats in valley

Over 150,000 visitors have visited Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar in the very first 10 days of its opening. This year over 1.7 million tulips of 73 varieties have been planted in the garden located between Dal Lake and the Zabarwan hills. The Tulip Garden remains one of the main attractions for the tourists visiting the Valley in the spring season.&nbsp;

The tulip garden in Srinagar witnessed a record number of visitors in the very first 10 days of its opening, Around 150,000 visitors visited the garden in the first 10&nbsp;days. And since the Tulips are in full bloom, it looks no less than a floral wonderland. The Tulip Garden saw a record number of visitors last year with 370,000 visitors visiting the garden and the government expects that this year all previous records will be broken.&nbsp;

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"It's the tenth day of the tulip gardens opening, we experienced an overwhelming response from the visitors this year and the total count almost crossed 1.5 lakh,&nbsp;it's a record-breaking tourist footfall and in the coming days, we are sure this year will be a fantastic record-breaking tourist coming. Our department is always committed to adding new varieties, and this year we have added 5 new varieties. After Eid we are confident that the local rush will increase and we will have more and more visitors visiting the garden," said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer.&nbsp;

The Tulip Garden has played a major role in attracting more and more tourists to the Kashmir Valley during the spring season. And seeing the huge rush of visitors, the government opens the garden much before the earlier time. It used to be opened during the first week of April and now has been opened a week earlier on March 23. The tourists are flocking to the garden in huge numbers.&nbsp;

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"It's very beautiful, the weather is perfect. The tulip garden was a dream to see and it's really amazing. We have seen the Silsila movie song of Rekha and Amitabh in a tulip garden and it's exactly the same. I would go back and recommend to everyone to go to Kashmir and see the garden," said Bhawna Kaamdar, a tourist.&nbsp;

Over 150 gardeners and staff have worked day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes these gardeners around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. A lot of foreign tourists are coming to the Valley as well, especially to see the Tulip Garden.&nbsp;

"It's beautiful and very much like Amsterdam. I have been there, and I have seen tulips there but this is very beautiful. We have been travelling around India for four months and this is our last spot and it's very beautiful here. We came yesterday and it's the first day and it's such a scenic beauty," said Jackie, a tourist from Scotland.&nbsp;

The garden will be open for the whole month of April for visitors.&nbsp;

Over 150,000 visitors have visited Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar in the very first 10 days of its opening. This year over 1.7 million tulips of 73 varieties have been planted in the garden located between Dal Lake and the Zabarwan hills.

Over 150,000 visitors have visited Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar in the very first 10 days of its opening. This year over 1.7 million tulips of 73 varieties have been planted in the garden located between Dal Lake and the Zabarwan hills. The Tulip Garden remains one of the main attractions for the tourists visiting the Valley in the spring season. The tulip garden in Srinagar witnessed a record number of visitors in the very first 10 days of its opening, Around 150,000 visitors visited the garden in the first 10 days. And since the Tulips are in full bloom, it looks no less than a floral wonderland. The Tulip Garden saw a record number of visitors last year with 370,000 visitors visiting the garden and the government expects that this year all previous records will be broken. Also read: Adoption in India reach the highest number since 2018-19, crossing 4000 mark "It's the tenth day of the tulip gardens opening, we experienced an overwhelming response from the visitors this year and the total count almost crossed 1.5 lakh, it's a record-breaking tourist footfall and in the coming days, we are sure this year will be a fantastic record-breaking tourist coming. Our department is always committed to adding new varieties, and this year we have added 5 new varieties. After Eid we are confident that the local rush will increase and we will have more and more visitors visiting the garden," said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. The Tulip Garden has played a major role in attracting more and more tourists to the Kashmir Valley during the spring season. And seeing the huge rush of visitors, the government opens the garden much before the earlier time. It used to be opened during the first week of April and now has been opened a week earlier on March 23. The tourists are flocking to the garden in huge numbers. Also read: Vistara’s pilot shortage deepens with several flights affected across India "It's very beautiful, the weather is perfect. The tulip garden was a dream to see and it's really amazing. We have seen the Silsila movie song of Rekha and Amitabh in a tulip garden and it's exactly the same. I would go back and recommend to everyone to go to Kashmir and see the garden," said Bhawna Kaamdar, a tourist. Over 150 gardeners and staff have worked day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes these gardeners around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. A lot of foreign tourists are coming to the Valley as well, especially to see the Tulip Garden. "It's beautiful and very much like Amsterdam. I have been there, and I have seen tulips there but this is very beautiful. We have been travelling around India for four months and this is our last spot and it's very beautiful here. We came yesterday and it's the first day and it's such a scenic beauty," said Jackie, a tourist from Scotland. The garden will be open for the whole month of April for visitors.

Over 150,000 tourists visit Asia’s largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar in 10 days

It's Springtime and also the season when the whole Kashmir Valley turns into a floral wonderland. While thousands of tourists are visiting Kashmir's famous gardens, it's the mustard fields that have become a new attraction for tourists this year. Hundreds of tourists are visiting various mustard fields in the Kashmir region.&nbsp;

The golden mustard fields in South Kashmir's Pampore area with snow-covered Zabarwan mountains in the backdrop have become a huge attraction for the tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley. Hundreds of tourists are stopping on the national highway to visit these fields. Most of these tourists are trying to recreate the scenes from the Bollywood blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.&nbsp;

''It's so beautiful here.&nbsp;I have seen the mustard fields in the Bollywood movie Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and wanted to recreate the scene. It's very beautiful, we will go to Tulip Garden also but this is a natural beauty and everyone should explore it. I did not expect this. While we were on our way to Pahalgam, we saw the fields I asked my driver to stop so that I could take pictures. Kashmiris are the politest and kind people in the whole country,"&nbsp;said Isha, a tourist from Delhi.&nbsp;

Tourists mostly visiting resorts in&nbsp;Pahalgam and Gulmarg take a stop at these mustard fields.&nbsp;

''It has its own charm; mustard fields are always amazing and give a village feel. We were trying to recreate the DDLJ scene. We went to Gulmarg and Pahalgam and today we are going to the gardens and also stopped here to enjoy the mustard fields. Once I go back, I will go with a message that everyone should come here for sure,'' said Manjit, a tourist.&nbsp;

The government's National Oilseeds Mission also plans to expand oilseed cultivation, particularly mustard in the Kashmir Valley. The National Oilseeds Mission aims to expand oilseed cultivation to 140,000 hectares by 2023-24, a remarkable 253.12% increase.

''We used to have very little mustard farming, but in the last few years, we have been focussing on increasing the mustard farms. We have increased around 500 hectares of land this year for mustard cultivation, especially on this national highway used by tourists. We started agro-tourism here on the highway. These are the same fields as saffron, and a lot of tourists visit at that time and now due to the mustard more tourists are coming here during the spring as well. A lot of people are stopping here to take pictures and this farming also helps honeybees to increase the apiculture,'' said Ishtiaq Ahmad Bhat, Agriculture Officer.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir is working hard to add more and more tourist attractions for the visitors coming to the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

It's Springtime and also the season when the whole Kashmir Valley turns into a floral wonderland. While thousands of tourists are visiting Kashmir's famous gardens, it's the mustard fields that have become a new attraction for tourists this year.

It's Springtime and also the season when the whole Kashmir Valley turns into a floral wonderland. While thousands of tourists are visiting Kashmir's famous gardens, it's the mustard fields that have become a new attraction for tourists this year. Hundreds of tourists are visiting various mustard fields in the Kashmir region. The golden mustard fields in South Kashmir's Pampore area with snow-covered Zabarwan mountains in the backdrop have become a huge attraction for the tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley. Hundreds of tourists are stopping on the national highway to visit these fields. Most of these tourists are trying to recreate the scenes from the Bollywood blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. ''It's so beautiful here. I have seen the mustard fields in the Bollywood movie Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and wanted to recreate the scene. It's very beautiful, we will go to Tulip Garden also but this is a natural beauty and everyone should explore it. I did not expect this. While we were on our way to Pahalgam, we saw the fields I asked my driver to stop so that I could take pictures. Kashmiris are the politest and kind people in the whole country," said Isha, a tourist from Delhi. Tourists mostly visiting resorts in Pahalgam and Gulmarg take a stop at these mustard fields. ''It has its own charm; mustard fields are always amazing and give a village feel. We were trying to recreate the DDLJ scene. We went to Gulmarg and Pahalgam and today we are going to the gardens and also stopped here to enjoy the mustard fields. Once I go back, I will go with a message that everyone should come here for sure,'' said Manjit, a tourist. The government's National Oilseeds Mission also plans to expand oilseed cultivation, particularly mustard in the Kashmir Valley. The National Oilseeds Mission aims to expand oilseed cultivation to 140,000 hectares by 2023-24, a remarkable 253.12% increase. ''We used to have very little mustard farming, but in the last few years, we have been focussing on increasing the mustard farms. We have increased around 500 hectares of land this year for mustard cultivation, especially on this national highway used by tourists. We started agro-tourism here on the highway. These are the same fields as saffron, and a lot of tourists visit at that time and now due to the mustard more tourists are coming here during the spring as well. A lot of people are stopping here to take pictures and this farming also helps honeybees to increase the apiculture,'' said Ishtiaq Ahmad Bhat, Agriculture Officer. The government of Jammu and Kashmir is working hard to add more and more tourist attractions for the visitors coming to the Kashmir Valley.

India: Mustard fields become new tourist attraction in Kashmir Valley

Navroz, the Persian New Year is considered to be the first day of spring in the Kashmir Valley, and on the same day, hundreds of people in the valley gather at the leech therapy centres hoping to get rid of their age-old ailments. These people believe that leech therapy works best on the day of Navroz.&nbsp;

Leech therapy is an ancient&nbsp;Egyptian method where medicinal leeches are used to treat patients. Medicinal leeches have three jaws with tiny rows of teeth. They pierce a person’s skin with their teeth and insert anticoagulants through their saliva. The leeches are then allowed to extract blood, for 20 to 45 minutes at a time, from the person undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

According to the therapists, leeches are used to treat pain and cure nervous system abnormalities. They are also used to treat dental problems, skin diseases, infections, arthritis, chronic headaches and sinusitis.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian soldiers celebrate Holi across Jammu and Kashmir

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''We have been doing leech therapy for around 30-40 years. It's an ancient method which was used by our forefathers, we have been treating patients in the Dooru area with the help of leeches. If there are people suffering from allergies, high blood pressure, frostbite and also lumps, they come to us, especially on the day of Navroz, and get themselves treated with the help of these medicinal leeches. We get patients from Ramban, Kishtwar, North Kashmir and South Kashmir. We specialise&nbsp;in leech therapy and have a huge rush around Navroz,'' said Showkat Ahmad Rather, a therapist.&nbsp;
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People from various parts of the Union Territory come specially to these leech centres to get themselves treated. And some of them claim that what allopathic medicine could not do for them, leech therapy has.&nbsp;

''I have been coming here for many years to get the treatment. I was relieved after visiting the Leech Centre. I used to take a lot of medicines, but I was not benefited by it at all, and through social media I got to know that this therapy is being done here and I came here. It has really worked well for me. And specially on Navroz, they say it works the best, '' said Sameer Ahmad, Anantnag, South Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi19PjF75GFAxXui2MGHQRUD_EQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-jammu-and-kashmir-to-have-over-34-lakh-first-time-voters-700052" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-jammu-and-kashmir-to-have-over-34-lakh-first-time-voters-700052&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi19PjF75GFAxXui2MGHQRUD_EQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters</a>

In recent times, it has been observed that more and more people are shifting to Homeopathy treatment&nbsp;in the valley.&nbsp;

Navroz, the Persian New Year is considered to be the first day of spring in the Kashmir Valley, and on the same day, hundreds of people in the valley gather at the leech therapy centres hoping to get rid of their age-old ailments.

Navroz, the Persian New Year is considered to be the first day of spring in the Kashmir Valley, and on the same day, hundreds of people in the valley gather at the leech therapy centres hoping to get rid of their age-old ailments. These people believe that leech therapy works best on the day of Navroz. Leech therapy is an ancient Egyptian method where medicinal leeches are used to treat patients. Medicinal leeches have three jaws with tiny rows of teeth. They pierce a person’s skin with their teeth and insert anticoagulants through their saliva. The leeches are then allowed to extract blood, for 20 to 45 minutes at a time, from the person undergoing treatment. According to the therapists, leeches are used to treat pain and cure nervous system abnormalities. They are also used to treat dental problems, skin diseases, infections, arthritis, chronic headaches and sinusitis. Watch: Indian soldiers celebrate Holi across Jammu and Kashmir × ''We have been doing leech therapy for around 30-40 years. It's an ancient method which was used by our forefathers, we have been treating patients in the Dooru area with the help of leeches. If there are people suffering from allergies, high blood pressure, frostbite and also lumps, they come to us, especially on the day of Navroz, and get themselves treated with the help of these medicinal leeches. We get patients from Ramban, Kishtwar, North Kashmir and South Kashmir. We specialise in leech therapy and have a huge rush around Navroz,'' said Showkat Ahmad Rather, a therapist. People from various parts of the Union Territory come specially to these leech centres to get themselves treated. And some of them claim that what allopathic medicine could not do for them, leech therapy has. ''I have been coming here for many years to get the treatment. I was relieved after visiting the Leech Centre. I used to take a lot of medicines, but I was not benefited by it at all, and through social media I got to know that this therapy is being done here and I came here. It has really worked well for me. And specially on Navroz, they say it works the best, '' said Sameer Ahmad, Anantnag, South Kashmir. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters In recent times, it has been observed that more and more people are shifting to Homeopathy treatment in the valley.

Ancient Egyptian leech therapy still popular in Kashmir Valley, demand soars during Navroz

At a time when the whole of India is celebrating Holi, the Festival of Colours, the soldiers of the Border Security Force, Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal and Central Reserve Police Force posted in the Kashmir Valley are spreading the message of brotherhood and unity. Away from their homes, these soldiers make sure to celebrate with full fervour and joy.&nbsp;

Whether it's the BSF Frontier of the Kashmir Division, who are manning the Line of Control or the soldiers of Sashastra Seema Bal who take care of the operational duties, every camp in the Valley has organised the Holy celebrations for troops. While the BSF&nbsp;celebrated&nbsp;at their Humhama BSF Headquarters in Budgam district, the soldiers of Sashastra Seema Bal celebrated at the Batamaloo Camp.&nbsp;

In every camp, the jawans from different parts of the country were seen celebrating the festival of colours with each other like a family. These festivals are also days when there are no barriers of hierarchy, and all celebrate together.

"BSF has a tradition of celebrating all festivals from every religion with a lot of joy. This is a day when we don't follow any hierarchy and get together with each other. BSF is a family that celebrates all festivals together. It helps in taking away our stress as well. I want to tell the nation that our soldiers are guarding the borders, and we are always ready to tackle any situation on the LoC and make sure our country stays safe,'' said Ashok Yadav, IG BSF Frontier, Kashmir Division.&nbsp;

The celebrations were attended by soldiers from all religions. It also sets an example of brotherhood among the soldiers and sends a message of unity to the citizens of the country.&nbsp;

''The whole country is celebrating the festival of Holi with our family that is our colleagues here. We celebrate all the festivals like this here. The holy month of Ramadan is on too and we are organising Iftaar also. We celebrate all festivals together and with unity. We will keep celebrating all the festivals like this. We are away from our families, but here&nbsp;we live like a family in these camps. We make sure to take care of each other,'' said&nbsp;Rohit A, Commandant, SSB. &nbsp;

The soldiers away from their homes make sure to celebrate all the festivals with their colleagues as families.&nbsp;

''We are extremely happy about the festival of colours Holi. We pray for peace and colourful Holi for everyone and as you can see civilians have also come and joined us to celebrate the festival today. We feel like we are at home only. This is no less than our home as we spend most of the year here only. I have been here for three years and am enjoying the festival with full fervour. These festivals unite us and celebrate with love,'' said Navratttan Mishra, a soldier from UP.&nbsp;

Many such celebrations were held for the soldiers of the Indian Army, CRPF and Border Security Forces across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

At a time when the whole of India is celebrating Holi, the Festival of Colours, the soldiers of the Border Security Force, Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal and Central Reserve Police Force posted in the Kashmir Valley are spreading the message of brotherhood and unity.

At a time when the whole of India is celebrating Holi, the Festival of Colours, the soldiers of the Border Security Force, Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal and Central Reserve Police Force posted in the Kashmir Valley are spreading the message of brotherhood and unity. Away from their homes, these soldiers make sure to celebrate with full fervour and joy. Whether it's the BSF Frontier of the Kashmir Division, who are manning the Line of Control or the soldiers of Sashastra Seema Bal who take care of the operational duties, every camp in the Valley has organised the Holy celebrations for troops. While the BSF celebrated at their Humhama BSF Headquarters in Budgam district, the soldiers of Sashastra Seema Bal celebrated at the Batamaloo Camp. In every camp, the jawans from different parts of the country were seen celebrating the festival of colours with each other like a family. These festivals are also days when there are no barriers of hierarchy, and all celebrate together. "BSF has a tradition of celebrating all festivals from every religion with a lot of joy. This is a day when we don't follow any hierarchy and get together with each other. BSF is a family that celebrates all festivals together. It helps in taking away our stress as well. I want to tell the nation that our soldiers are guarding the borders, and we are always ready to tackle any situation on the LoC and make sure our country stays safe,'' said Ashok Yadav, IG BSF Frontier, Kashmir Division. The celebrations were attended by soldiers from all religions. It also sets an example of brotherhood among the soldiers and sends a message of unity to the citizens of the country. ''The whole country is celebrating the festival of Holi with our family that is our colleagues here. We celebrate all the festivals like this here. The holy month of Ramadan is on too and we are organising Iftaar also. We celebrate all festivals together and with unity. We will keep celebrating all the festivals like this. We are away from our families, but here we live like a family in these camps. We make sure to take care of each other,'' said Rohit A, Commandant, SSB. The soldiers away from their homes make sure to celebrate all the festivals with their colleagues as families. ''We are extremely happy about the festival of colours Holi. We pray for peace and colourful Holi for everyone and as you can see civilians have also come and joined us to celebrate the festival today. We feel like we are at home only. This is no less than our home as we spend most of the year here only. I have been here for three years and am enjoying the festival with full fervour. These festivals unite us and celebrate with love,'' said Navratttan Mishra, a soldier from UP. Many such celebrations were held for the soldiers of the Indian Army, CRPF and Border Security Forces across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

India: Soldiers celebrate Holi across Jammu and Kashmir

With Lok Sabha elections just around the corner, the Indian government is leaving no stone unturned to eradicate separatism from the Kashmir Valley. In the last five years, over 10 separatist outfits in Jammu and Kashmir have been banned by the Home Ministry, five among them just in the last week.&nbsp;

The Union home ministry has acted upon multiple separatist groups and declared them unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967. The five banned groups include separatist groups JKLF, JKFM, and the Muslim League. These groups led by separatist leaders like Yasin Malik, Nayim Khan and Masrat Aalam were banned in the past few days alone, while five other separatist groups were banned over the past five years.

''We welcome this step by the government, It's a great step to ban terrorists and separatist organisations in the Union Territory. They had put Kashmir on a burner, and it was due to these organisations that youth were involved in stone pelting, and terrorism in the name of Pakistan. Since the step of banning these organisations has been taken by our Home Minister and the vision&nbsp;he has for JK, the situation has improved drastically by banning these organizations like Jamaat Islami, Muslim League and Geelani's faction. There is peace, progress and development as the output of the same. They were producing terrorists and stone pelters and that has stopped," said Altaf Thakur, BJP spokesperson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-declares-yasin-malik-led-jklf-as-unlawful-association-for-another-five-years-amit-shah-700723">India declares Yasin Malik-led JKLF as 'unlawful association' for another five years</a>

Meanwhile, in a significant move, the daughter&nbsp;of jailed separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah and granddaughter of separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani publicly distanced themselves from the separatist ideologies that their&nbsp;father&nbsp;and grandfather once championed. Sama Shabir and Ruwa Shah have taken a bold step towards reaffirming their allegiance to the Union of India.

Ruwa Shah, the granddaughter of Geelani, disassociated herself from her late grandfather's Hurriyat Conference faction through a published notice in a local newspaper in the valley. She made it clear that she stands as a proud citizen of India and holds no sympathy towards separatist ideologies. Similarly, Sama Shabir, the elder daughter of Shabir Ahmad Shah, emphasised her loyalty to India in another public notice, denouncing any association with her father's banned separatist organisation.

''The granddaughter of Syed Ali Geelani and daughter of Shabir Ahmad Shah, both have distanced themselves from the separatist ideology. They have said that their parents and grandparents had the wrong ideology, and they are proud to be citizens of India. It's a big slap on the face of separatists and also on the regional political parties like National Conference and PDP, who keep talking about talks with Pakistan, it is also a slap on them. Both these daughters coming out and accepting India's ideology and being proud of it is a big achievement,'' said Altaf Thakur, BJP Spokesperson.&nbsp;

Official sources have indicated that in preparation for the Lok Sabha polls and to ensure a peaceful atmosphere in the Valley for the common populace to participate freely and fairly in the democratic process, central agencies and the MHA have been keeping a close eye on&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With Lok Sabha elections just around the corner, the Indian government is leaving no stone unturned to eradicate separatism from the Kashmir Valley. In the last five years, over 10 separatist outfits in Jammu and Kashmir have been banned by the Home Ministry, five among them just in the last week.

With Lok Sabha elections just around the corner, the Indian government is leaving no stone unturned to eradicate separatism from the Kashmir Valley. In the last five years, over 10 separatist outfits in Jammu and Kashmir have been banned by the Home Ministry, five among them just in the last week. The Union home ministry has acted upon multiple separatist groups and declared them unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967. The five banned groups include separatist groups JKLF, JKFM, and the Muslim League. These groups led by separatist leaders like Yasin Malik, Nayim Khan and Masrat Aalam were banned in the past few days alone, while five other separatist groups were banned over the past five years. ''We welcome this step by the government, It's a great step to ban terrorists and separatist organisations in the Union Territory. They had put Kashmir on a burner, and it was due to these organisations that youth were involved in stone pelting, and terrorism in the name of Pakistan. Since the step of banning these organisations has been taken by our Home Minister and the vision he has for JK, the situation has improved drastically by banning these organizations like Jamaat Islami, Muslim League and Geelani's faction. There is peace, progress and development as the output of the same. They were producing terrorists and stone pelters and that has stopped," said Altaf Thakur, BJP spokesperson. Also read | India declares Yasin Malik-led JKLF as 'unlawful association' for another five years Meanwhile, in a significant move, the daughter of jailed separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah and granddaughter of separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani publicly distanced themselves from the separatist ideologies that their father and grandfather once championed. Sama Shabir and Ruwa Shah have taken a bold step towards reaffirming their allegiance to the Union of India. Ruwa Shah, the granddaughter of Geelani, disassociated herself from her late grandfather's Hurriyat Conference faction through a published notice in a local newspaper in the valley. She made it clear that she stands as a proud citizen of India and holds no sympathy towards separatist ideologies. Similarly, Sama Shabir, the elder daughter of Shabir Ahmad Shah, emphasised her loyalty to India in another public notice, denouncing any association with her father's banned separatist organisation. ''The granddaughter of Syed Ali Geelani and daughter of Shabir Ahmad Shah, both have distanced themselves from the separatist ideology. They have said that their parents and grandparents had the wrong ideology, and they are proud to be citizens of India. It's a big slap on the face of separatists and also on the regional political parties like National Conference and PDP, who keep talking about talks with Pakistan, it is also a slap on them. Both these daughters coming out and accepting India's ideology and being proud of it is a big achievement,'' said Altaf Thakur, BJP Spokesperson. Official sources have indicated that in preparation for the Lok Sabha polls and to ensure a peaceful atmosphere in the Valley for the common populace to participate freely and fairly in the democratic process, central agencies and the MHA have been keeping a close eye on Jammu and Kashmir.

Multiple separatist outfits in J&K banned; Geelani's granddaughter declares loyalty to India

As Jammu and Kashmir is gearing up for both parliamentary as well as assembly elections this year, the election commission recently said that women voters will comprise around 49 per cent of the union territory.

The women will have a huge responsibility of deciding the political future of Jammu and Kashmir in these upcoming elections. That's not all,&nbsp;the women of the region are also joining active politics in large&nbsp;numbers.

According to the Election Commission of India, there are around 86.93 lakh (8.69 million) voters in Jammu and Kashmir, and among them 42.58 lakh (4.25 million) are female voters.

This is&nbsp;around 49 per cent of the total voters, which makes them extremely important in deciding the&nbsp;political course of the union territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;The large number of women voters have led political parties to woo them.

''Women will be at the forefront to decide who will govern the union territory. Women will look at the history of political parties and how these parties have worked to empower women. They also look at the educational opportunities created by the political parties. Women will also look at how the political parties&nbsp;stood for women's rights. And also, the representation by the political parties. Women will take a 360 view of what has been done for them. The pink booths are token representations, '' said Ifra Jan, National Conference spokesperson.&nbsp;

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She also added that ''It's not easy to join politics as your character is assassinated. The abilities of women are always questioned. Your dress and what you are saying is what gets judged than what you are doing for society. It's not easy, as it's been the case in all professions but yes, I am very thankful to my political party that stood by me like a rock. We are protected by the party and that's a silver lining here''.&nbsp;

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The&nbsp;representation of women in the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir has been very low. In the 2014 assembly elections out of 831 candidates, only 28 were female contestants. Jammu and Kashmir has only had one female chief minister so far. Mehbooba Mufti, the former chief minister and leader of&nbsp;Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is seeing an increase in&nbsp;participation of women.

''It's not easy but if they join it's not difficult. Our party is led by a female, Mehbooba Mufti, &nbsp;and she came at a time when there were hardly any women in politics. It was a male-dominated area, and she became the first female chief minister of the state. She is an idol for me and the entire women population of the state. I look up to her for the work she has done, and she has been the lone voice of Kashmir. We have to encourage more and more women since there is a reservation, '' said Ahra Syed, PDP.&nbsp;

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The women politicians in the Kashmir valley are happy that 49 per cent of the voters in the union territory are females and are hopeful that they will vote and choose their candidates carefully. Some of them are also inviting young women to join politics to change the political scenario as well as help women in general.&nbsp;

"In the earlier times, it was only men who were given the right to vote but with time things have changed and having so many female voters will bring a lot of change in the society. I am really happy that we women are coming out of our homes and going to polling booths choosing what is good for us and beneficial for us. Women are usually given less credit for the work but this time things will turn around and women will bring change. It used to be difficult to get into politics but with new generations women are getting many opportunities. Women need not to be scared of joining politics. A lot of young women want to come and join politics,'' said Bisma Meer from People's Conference.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir will witness&nbsp;parliamentary polls in the first five phases, while the Supreme Court has asked the Centre&nbsp;to hold assembly elections in the union territory before September 2024.&nbsp;

As Jammu and Kashmir is gearing up for both parliamentary as well as assembly elections this year, the election commission recently said that women voters will comprise around 49 per cent of the union territory.

As Jammu and Kashmir is gearing up for both parliamentary as well as assembly elections this year, the election commission recently said that women voters will comprise around 49 per cent of the union territory. The women will have a huge responsibility of deciding the political future of Jammu and Kashmir in these upcoming elections. That's not all, the women of the region are also joining active politics in large numbers. According to the Election Commission of India, there are around 86.93 lakh (8.69 million) voters in Jammu and Kashmir, and among them 42.58 lakh (4.25 million) are female voters. This is around 49 per cent of the total voters, which makes them extremely important in deciding the political course of the union territory. The large number of women voters have led political parties to woo them. ''Women will be at the forefront to decide who will govern the union territory. Women will look at the history of political parties and how these parties have worked to empower women. They also look at the educational opportunities created by the political parties. Women will also look at how the political parties stood for women's rights. And also, the representation by the political parties. Women will take a 360 view of what has been done for them. The pink booths are token representations, '' said Ifra Jan, National Conference spokesperson. Also Read | Indian student goes missing in US, family seeks MEA's help after getting ransom call She also added that ''It's not easy to join politics as your character is assassinated. The abilities of women are always questioned. Your dress and what you are saying is what gets judged than what you are doing for society. It's not easy, as it's been the case in all professions but yes, I am very thankful to my political party that stood by me like a rock. We are protected by the party and that's a silver lining here''. Also Read | SBI submits complete electoral bond details with unique numbers to Election Commission The representation of women in the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir has been very low. In the 2014 assembly elections out of 831 candidates, only 28 were female contestants. Jammu and Kashmir has only had one female chief minister so far. Mehbooba Mufti, the former chief minister and leader of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is seeing an increase in participation of women. ''It's not easy but if they join it's not difficult. Our party is led by a female, Mehbooba Mufti, and she came at a time when there were hardly any women in politics. It was a male-dominated area, and she became the first female chief minister of the state. She is an idol for me and the entire women population of the state. I look up to her for the work she has done, and she has been the lone voice of Kashmir. We have to encourage more and more women since there is a reservation, '' said Ahra Syed, PDP. Watch | Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev undergoes emergency brain surgery; Indian PM wishes speedy recovery × The women politicians in the Kashmir valley are happy that 49 per cent of the voters in the union territory are females and are hopeful that they will vote and choose their candidates carefully. Some of them are also inviting young women to join politics to change the political scenario as well as help women in general. "In the earlier times, it was only men who were given the right to vote but with time things have changed and having so many female voters will bring a lot of change in the society. I am really happy that we women are coming out of our homes and going to polling booths choosing what is good for us and beneficial for us. Women are usually given less credit for the work but this time things will turn around and women will bring change. It used to be difficult to get into politics but with new generations women are getting many opportunities. Women need not to be scared of joining politics. A lot of young women want to come and join politics,'' said Bisma Meer from People's Conference. Jammu and Kashmir will witness parliamentary polls in the first five phases, while the Supreme Court has asked the Centre to hold assembly elections in the union territory before September 2024.

Jammu and Kashmir's political future hinges on 49pc women voters in upcoming elections

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million&nbsp;during the month of Ramadan alone.&nbsp;It also became&nbsp;one of the most sold food items during this month.

While the demand for dates during the month of Ramadan across the Kashmir Valley is huge, dealers have brought over a dozen varieties of dates this time. People are thronging the markets specially for buying dates and some dealers are already out of stock.

With dates worth over $360K&nbsp;sold per day during the month of Ramadan, the dealers are sure that this year the date business will break all the previous market records.

''Ramadan is a blessed month for us. Dates are very pious for us as our prophet used to have them. This month people buy a lot of dates. We all break our fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We have sold so much in&nbsp;this Ramadan that our supplies are finished. We have a huge variety of dates in the market. Very nice season this Ramadan." said Irfan Ahmad, a dates dealer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerias-islamic-police-arrest-non-fasting-muslims-during-ramadan-699803">Also read |&nbsp;Nigeria’s Islamic police arrest non-fasting Muslims during Ramadan</a>

In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically including dates. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramadan. The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market.

''In the month of Ramadan, we have brought multiple types of dates. The people buy dates in huge quantities during the month of Ramadan. Kalmi, Medjoul and Amber and Ajwa are available with us. We break our fast with dates. Around 90 per cent of people break the fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We get a lot of customers from across the Valley and this year we have had a huge market,'' said Sajad Ahmad, a dates dealer.

Several other foods are also made specially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custard, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley. But dates still remain a must in every household.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ramadan 2024: In India, Ramadan to begin on March 12

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ramadan-2024-in-india-ramadan-to-begin-on-march-12-698971/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''This is a blessed month of Ramadan. There is a huge demand for dates in the market and this time they have sold like anything. We have so many types of dates available in the market. We are getting dates from Jordan. People are buying in huge quantities and now they want different types for its benefits. Mabroom and Kalmi and Medjoul are favourites among Kashmiris," said Mehraj Uddin,&nbsp;a dates dealer.

Dates are said to have multiple health benefits for the people fasting.

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million during the month of Ramadan alone.

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million during the month of Ramadan alone. It also became one of the most sold food items during this month. While the demand for dates during the month of Ramadan across the Kashmir Valley is huge, dealers have brought over a dozen varieties of dates this time. People are thronging the markets specially for buying dates and some dealers are already out of stock. With dates worth over $360K sold per day during the month of Ramadan, the dealers are sure that this year the date business will break all the previous market records. ''Ramadan is a blessed month for us. Dates are very pious for us as our prophet used to have them. This month people buy a lot of dates. We all break our fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We have sold so much in this Ramadan that our supplies are finished. We have a huge variety of dates in the market. Very nice season this Ramadan." said Irfan Ahmad, a dates dealer. Also read | Nigeria’s Islamic police arrest non-fasting Muslims during Ramadan In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically including dates. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramadan. The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market. ''In the month of Ramadan, we have brought multiple types of dates. The people buy dates in huge quantities during the month of Ramadan. Kalmi, Medjoul and Amber and Ajwa are available with us. We break our fast with dates. Around 90 per cent of people break the fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We get a lot of customers from across the Valley and this year we have had a huge market,'' said Sajad Ahmad, a dates dealer. Several other foods are also made specially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custard, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley. But dates still remain a must in every household. Also watch | Ramadan 2024: In India, Ramadan to begin on March 12 ''This is a blessed month of Ramadan. There is a huge demand for dates in the market and this time they have sold like anything. We have so many types of dates available in the market. We are getting dates from Jordan. People are buying in huge quantities and now they want different types for its benefits. Mabroom and Kalmi and Medjoul are favourites among Kashmiris," said Mehraj Uddin, a dates dealer. Dates are said to have multiple health benefits for the people fasting.

Kashmir: Dates become most-sold food item during Ramadan as sales surge

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening.&nbsp;

With spring on, The Tulip Garden located below the Zabarwan Hills and overlooking the world-famous Dal Lake, is looking no less than a floral wonderland. The floriculture department is also planning a Tulip festival in the month of April. And the gardeners are making sure that most of the tulips bloom before the opening of the Garden.&nbsp;

''Tulip Garden is an internationally recognised garden and it plays an important role for the tourism sector in Kashmir Valley. We always try to add new attractions to the garden every year and this time too we have added floral surprises this year. We have introduced new vibrant colour schemes with five new varieties and apart from that we have added daffodils and hyacinths. 1.7 million tulips will be blooming in the garden this year'', said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. &nbsp;

Hundreds of gardeners and staff are working day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. And this year the floriculture department says all the previous records of tourist footfall will be broken.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-120-stranded-passengers-airlifted-from-snow-bound-kanzalwan-in-jk-701257">Also read: India: 120 stranded passengers airlifted from snow-bound Kanzalwan in J&amp;K</a>

The Tulip Garden has become extremely famous to people across India. A lot of travellers plan their travels to the valley during the Tulip bloom. This year the floriculture department has planted other varieties of flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, muscari and cyclamens to make the garden look more colourful.

''We have had overwhelming tourist footfall last year, The garden opens for a month and we saw 3.72 lakh&nbsp;visitors last year and this year we are hopeful that we will break all the previous records this season. Our planting pattern depends on the blooming period and we have given a schematic planting of these tulips this year in coming years we will make sure that the garden's longevity expands and from next year onwards we will have cherry blossoms and the garden will be kept open during the month of May as well,'' said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. &nbsp;

The garden was built in 2008 during the term of then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Azad. The garden was made to attract more tourists to the Valley during the spring season. Last year, the garden was included in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia's largest Tulip Garden.&nbsp;

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening.

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening. With spring on, The Tulip Garden located below the Zabarwan Hills and overlooking the world-famous Dal Lake, is looking no less than a floral wonderland. The floriculture department is also planning a Tulip festival in the month of April. And the gardeners are making sure that most of the tulips bloom before the opening of the Garden. ''Tulip Garden is an internationally recognised garden and it plays an important role for the tourism sector in Kashmir Valley. We always try to add new attractions to the garden every year and this time too we have added floral surprises this year. We have introduced new vibrant colour schemes with five new varieties and apart from that we have added daffodils and hyacinths. 1.7 million tulips will be blooming in the garden this year'', said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. Hundreds of gardeners and staff are working day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. And this year the floriculture department says all the previous records of tourist footfall will be broken. Also read: India: 120 stranded passengers airlifted from snow-bound Kanzalwan in J&K The Tulip Garden has become extremely famous to people across India. A lot of travellers plan their travels to the valley during the Tulip bloom. This year the floriculture department has planted other varieties of flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, muscari and cyclamens to make the garden look more colourful. ''We have had overwhelming tourist footfall last year, The garden opens for a month and we saw 3.72 lakh visitors last year and this year we are hopeful that we will break all the previous records this season. Our planting pattern depends on the blooming period and we have given a schematic planting of these tulips this year in coming years we will make sure that the garden's longevity expands and from next year onwards we will have cherry blossoms and the garden will be kept open during the month of May as well,'' said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. The garden was built in 2008 during the term of then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Azad. The garden was made to attract more tourists to the Valley during the spring season. Last year, the garden was included in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia's largest Tulip Garden.

India: Asia's largest Tulip garden in Srinagar set to be thrown open next week

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will have over three lakh first-time voters in the coming Parliamentary and Assembly Polls. The Chief Election Commissioner of India said that three lakh forty thousand first-time voters will be eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Election Commission said that around 86.9 lakh voters including 44.34 lakh men and 42.55 lakh women are registered in Jammu and Kashmir. The number also included 67,400 persons with disabilities and 158 transgenders. There will be 11,629 polling stations with an average of 747 voters per polling station to be set up in the Union Territory. The Election Commission said that 77,290 voters are above 85 years of age which includes 2,886 being over&nbsp;100 years.

The first-time voters in the Valley are extremely excited about casting their votes the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

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''I am extremely happy to be able to cast my vote for the first time in a democracy like India. I feel fortunate enough that It will be my first time to cast the vote. I will definitely cast my vote in favour of my favourite candidate. We are looking for the best candidate. I want peace and progress and that will be my basis for voting for a certain candidate, '' said Athar Parvaiz, a first-time voter.&nbsp;

Among the 3.4 lakh first-time voters, around 1.35 lakh are female first-time voters. The Election Commission also said that the electoral gender ratio of women voters has gone up as well. The number has increased from 945 in 2019 to 954 in 2024. Most of these young first-time voters are focusing&nbsp;on candidates who assure them of overall development.&nbsp;

''I know the process of Elections and I am very excited to cast my vote for the first time. The constitution allows us to vote, and it brings me happiness that I am 20 years old and I can choose my representative myself. Everyone needs to think before voting. They should be the reason for which you are voting for a certain candidate. I will vote for a candidate on the basis of development and in the interest of the whole society, '' said Ilyas Ahmad, a first-time Voter.&nbsp;

The Election Commission website has&nbsp;also helped a lot of youngsters across the Union territory to know about the election system and voting. They are aware of their democratic rights and want to vote on the basis of development and education.&nbsp;

''India is a multiparty system. Jammu and Kashmir does not have a huge population but has diverse and multiple political parties. People have a vast variety of political parties to choose from. The government has been organising a lot of workshops with regard to awareness among the young. We have all the information about who can vote and who can contest elections. I am very excited that it's my first time to vote. I will choose my candidate for just development., '' said Saqib Hamid.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir will witness Assembly as well as Parliamentary elections this year. The Political parties across the Union Territory have asked for simultaneous elections but the Election Commission is yet to decide on that.

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will have over three lakh first-time voters in the coming Parliamentary and Assembly Polls. The Chief Election Commissioner of India said that three lakh forty thousand first-time voters will be eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will have over three lakh first-time voters in the coming Parliamentary and Assembly Polls. The Chief Election Commissioner of India said that three lakh forty thousand first-time voters will be eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The Election Commission said that around 86.9 lakh voters including 44.34 lakh men and 42.55 lakh women are registered in Jammu and Kashmir. The number also included 67,400 persons with disabilities and 158 transgenders. There will be 11,629 polling stations with an average of 747 voters per polling station to be set up in the Union Territory. The Election Commission said that 77,290 voters are above 85 years of age which includes 2,886 being over 100 years. The first-time voters in the Valley are extremely excited about casting their votes the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Also read: CAA law will never be taken back by India's government, says home minister ''I am extremely happy to be able to cast my vote for the first time in a democracy like India. I feel fortunate enough that It will be my first time to cast the vote. I will definitely cast my vote in favour of my favourite candidate. We are looking for the best candidate. I want peace and progress and that will be my basis for voting for a certain candidate, '' said Athar Parvaiz, a first-time voter. Among the 3.4 lakh first-time voters, around 1.35 lakh are female first-time voters. The Election Commission also said that the electoral gender ratio of women voters has gone up as well. The number has increased from 945 in 2019 to 954 in 2024. Most of these young first-time voters are focusing on candidates who assure them of overall development. ''I know the process of Elections and I am very excited to cast my vote for the first time. The constitution allows us to vote, and it brings me happiness that I am 20 years old and I can choose my representative myself. Everyone needs to think before voting. They should be the reason for which you are voting for a certain candidate. I will vote for a candidate on the basis of development and in the interest of the whole society, '' said Ilyas Ahmad, a first-time Voter. The Election Commission website has also helped a lot of youngsters across the Union territory to know about the election system and voting. They are aware of their democratic rights and want to vote on the basis of development and education. ''India is a multiparty system. Jammu and Kashmir does not have a huge population but has diverse and multiple political parties. People have a vast variety of political parties to choose from. The government has been organising a lot of workshops with regard to awareness among the young. We have all the information about who can vote and who can contest elections. I am very excited that it's my first time to vote. I will choose my candidate for just development., '' said Saqib Hamid. Jammu and Kashmir will witness Assembly as well as Parliamentary elections this year. The Political parties across the Union Territory have asked for simultaneous elections but the Election Commission is yet to decide on that.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters

The Election Commission today (Mar 12) held meetings and consultations with the political parties in the Kashmir Valley to discuss the preparedness for the parliamentary elections in the Union Territory. Leaders from political parties like the National Conference, People's Democratic Party and Bharatiya Janata Party met with Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. Most of the political parties demanded that the parliamentary and assembly elections in the Valley be held simultaneously.&nbsp;

The National Conference leaders who met&nbsp;with the CEC said that they demanded that both elections be held together as holding two elections in a year in the UT would lead to massive losses for the tourism industry.&nbsp;

''We met the Election Commission today in Srinagar and our demand was that both the elections, Parliamentary and Assembly elections should take place together. It's been 10 years since the people of Jammu Kashmir have&nbsp;gotten a chance to elect their governments. We also raised a point on how tourism is flourishing in the Valley at the moment and how holding two elections in a year can affect tourism. The PM also keeps saying one nation, one election and why not start it with Jammu and Kashmir? We are hopeful that they will rationally listen to our demands, '' said Nasir Aslam Wani, National Conference Leader.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjc6Lv9ou6EAxW-wjgGHa08AaMQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-in-jk-today-his-first-visit-since-abrogation-of-article-370-697470" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-in-jk-today-his-first-visit-since-abrogation-of-article-370-697470&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjc6Lv9ou6EAxW-wjgGHa08AaMQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Indian PM Modi visits Jammu &amp; Kashmir, unveils multiple development projects</a>

Meanwhile, the BJP leader's delegation that met&nbsp;with the CEC stressed&nbsp;the ease of voting for the people,&nbsp;especially for the Kashmiri Pandit Community. The BJP leaders also supported the idea of holding both elections together in the Union Territory.&nbsp;

''We were a delegation of four, and we spoke about the easement of voting for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. And how to have a maximum voting percentage in the Valley. We also spoke about Kashmiri Pandit votes, and how to simplify it for them as well. We want polling booths to be set up in Jammu and Delhi from where they can cast their votes. BJP believes elections are important and we want the assembly elections to be held soon, and if they decide to hold both the elections together, we are ready for it, '' said RS Pathania,&nbsp;BJP Leader.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India Elections 2024: PM Modi unveils infrastructure projects in Kashmir

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The Peoples Democratic Party said that if the Centre says the security situation in the Valley has improved, then nothing should stop them from holding both&nbsp;elections together.&nbsp;

''We raised all our points and concerns with the Election Commission. We raised the point that if the security situation in the valley is alright, what's stopping them from holding parliamentary and assembly elections together in the Valley? We are hopeful that they will decide to hold them together,'' said GN Hanjura, PDP Leader.&nbsp;

The CEC will also be meeting with the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer and Nodal officers of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. He would be interacting with political parties in Jammu on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Election Commission today (Mar 12) held meetings and consultations with the political parties in the Kashmir Valley to discuss the preparedness for the parliamentary elections in the Union Territory.

The Election Commission today (Mar 12) held meetings and consultations with the political parties in the Kashmir Valley to discuss the preparedness for the parliamentary elections in the Union Territory. Leaders from political parties like the National Conference, People's Democratic Party and Bharatiya Janata Party met with Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. Most of the political parties demanded that the parliamentary and assembly elections in the Valley be held simultaneously. The National Conference leaders who met with the CEC said that they demanded that both elections be held together as holding two elections in a year in the UT would lead to massive losses for the tourism industry. ''We met the Election Commission today in Srinagar and our demand was that both the elections, Parliamentary and Assembly elections should take place together. It's been 10 years since the people of Jammu Kashmir have gotten a chance to elect their governments. We also raised a point on how tourism is flourishing in the Valley at the moment and how holding two elections in a year can affect tourism. The PM also keeps saying one nation, one election and why not start it with Jammu and Kashmir? We are hopeful that they will rationally listen to our demands, '' said Nasir Aslam Wani, National Conference Leader. Also read: Indian PM Modi visits Jammu & Kashmir, unveils multiple development projects Meanwhile, the BJP leader's delegation that met with the CEC stressed the ease of voting for the people, especially for the Kashmiri Pandit Community. The BJP leaders also supported the idea of holding both elections together in the Union Territory. ''We were a delegation of four, and we spoke about the easement of voting for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. And how to have a maximum voting percentage in the Valley. We also spoke about Kashmiri Pandit votes, and how to simplify it for them as well. We want polling booths to be set up in Jammu and Delhi from where they can cast their votes. BJP believes elections are important and we want the assembly elections to be held soon, and if they decide to hold both the elections together, we are ready for it, '' said RS Pathania, BJP Leader. Watch: India Elections 2024: PM Modi unveils infrastructure projects in Kashmir × The Peoples Democratic Party said that if the Centre says the security situation in the Valley has improved, then nothing should stop them from holding both elections together. ''We raised all our points and concerns with the Election Commission. We raised the point that if the security situation in the valley is alright, what's stopping them from holding parliamentary and assembly elections together in the Valley? We are hopeful that they will decide to hold them together,'' said GN Hanjura, PDP Leader. The CEC will also be meeting with the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer and Nodal officers of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. He would be interacting with political parties in Jammu on Wednesday.

Top poll official meets political parties in Kashmir amid demands of joint elections

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