On the fourth&nbsp;anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, floral tributes were paid to the forty CRPF Jawans who laid their lives in the attack. The wreath-laying&nbsp;ceremony held at 185bn of CRPF in Pulwama was attended by top officials of CRPF, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

CRPF has had a major modernisation in the last four years. From arms and ammunition to surveillance equipment like the latest guns and high-tech survivable gadgets have been provided to the soldiers on the ground by the government of India. Joint venture carbons rifle, PSG 1A1, Explosive detector, Handheld Thermal Imaging, Through Wall Radar (TWIR), MI machine Gun 7, latest bulletproof and new bunker vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulmarg-ski-resort-witnesses-huge-jump-in-number-of-female-ski-instructors-561474">Gulmarg Ski resort witnesses huge jump in number of female ski instructors</a>

"We are paying tribute to the Jawans who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack. There has been a lot of improvement in security situation in the Kashmir Valley. The cases of law and order have completely finished. We are proceeding to wipe out terrorism in the Valley. Modernisation is a work in progress. We always strive for modernisation; we have covered the whole National Highway with CCTV cameras. We use drones, the bomb disposal squad have latest equipment. The dog squad is also used for&nbsp;surveillance of National Highway. The weaponry has been modernised,"&nbsp;said M S Bhatia, IG Ops, CRPF.&nbsp;

The CRPF displayed the latest arms and ammunition and technological gadgets&nbsp;today. The soldiers of the CRPF said that the government has provided them with the best and latest equipment, and they are ready to deal with any challenge&nbsp;The moral of the Jawans are always high to fight the enemy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jk-police-recover-perfume-bomb-for-the-first-time-lashker-terrorist-arrested-558202">India: J&amp;K police recover ‘perfume bomb’ for the first time, from arrested Lashkar terrorist</a>

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Police ADGP Vijay Kumar said out of 19 involved in the Pulwama attack, eight terrorists have been killed, seven&nbsp;have been arrested, four&nbsp;including three&nbsp;Pakistanis are still alive.

He also said that&nbsp;"37 local terrorists are active in Kashmir and most of the top leadership of these terror outfits have been wiped out. At present JeM has only 7-8 locals and 5-6 active Pakistanis including Mossa Solaimani."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

On the fourth anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, floral tributes were paid to the forty CRPF Jawans who laid their lives in the attack. The wreath-laying ceremony held at 185bn of CRPF in Pulwama was attended by top officials of CRPF, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

On the fourth anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, floral tributes were paid to the forty CRPF Jawans who laid their lives in the attack. The wreath-laying ceremony held at 185bn of CRPF in Pulwama was attended by top officials of CRPF, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. CRPF has had a major modernisation in the last four years. From arms and ammunition to surveillance equipment like the latest guns and high-tech survivable gadgets have been provided to the soldiers on the ground by the government of India. Joint venture carbons rifle, PSG 1A1, Explosive detector, Handheld Thermal Imaging, Through Wall Radar (TWIR), MI machine Gun 7, latest bulletproof and new bunker vehicles. Also read | Gulmarg Ski resort witnesses huge jump in number of female ski instructors "We are paying tribute to the Jawans who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack. There has been a lot of improvement in security situation in the Kashmir Valley. The cases of law and order have completely finished. We are proceeding to wipe out terrorism in the Valley. Modernisation is a work in progress. We always strive for modernisation; we have covered the whole National Highway with CCTV cameras. We use drones, the bomb disposal squad have latest equipment. The dog squad is also used for surveillance of National Highway. The weaponry has been modernised," said M S Bhatia, IG Ops, CRPF. The CRPF displayed the latest arms and ammunition and technological gadgets today. The soldiers of the CRPF said that the government has provided them with the best and latest equipment, and they are ready to deal with any challenge The moral of the Jawans are always high to fight the enemy. Also read | India: J&K police recover ‘perfume bomb’ for the first time, from arrested Lashkar terrorist Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Police ADGP Vijay Kumar said out of 19 involved in the Pulwama attack, eight terrorists have been killed, seven have been arrested, four including three Pakistanis are still alive. He also said that "37 local terrorists are active in Kashmir and most of the top leadership of these terror outfits have been wiped out. At present JeM has only 7-8 locals and 5-6 active Pakistanis including Mossa Solaimani." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

On Pulwama attack anniversary, CRPF displays latest arms and surveillance gadgets

Jammu and Kashmir's former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today hit out at Home Minister of India, Amit Shah. Mehbooba said that Shah's statements are just ‘jumlas’ (empty promises) and there are no facts in his statement. ''He has himself admitted that he keeps making such statements, He accepted that he used such jumlas during the elections. It is for the first time in the history that a state was converted into a Union Territory. And now, to divert the issue of Adani, they are using such tactics. They always use Jammu and Kashmir to divert the attention of the country. I have to say that the land of Jammu and Kashmir belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I want the people to take control of the land. ''

Mufti also said that people were earlier called anti-nationals and now they are calling us encroachers. She said it's our land and people should take control of the land. It belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “People were earlier being called anti-national and now they are being called encroachers,'' said the Jammu and Kashmir former chief minister.

Mehbooba, while replying to a question regarding G-20 summit meetings, said that it will have serious consequences if the government continues to carry out the demolition drive. ''The summit at a time of raiding BBC offices and demolishing houses will have serious consequences for the country's reputation, '' said Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Mehbooba also said that while PDP was in coalition with BJP, they did not allow them to make any anti-people decisions. We didn’t allow them to carry out any anti-people activity. People can criticise me for my steps.&nbsp;I am not BJP, but till the government was there, we didn’t allow their agenda to prevail,” Mehbooba added.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Jammu and Kashmir's former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today hit out at Home Minister of India, Amit Shah. Mehbooba said that Shah's statements are just ‘jumlas’ (empty promises) and there are no facts in his statement.

Jammu and Kashmir's former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today hit out at Home Minister of India, Amit Shah. Mehbooba said that Shah's statements are just ‘jumlas’ (empty promises) and there are no facts in his statement. ''He has himself admitted that he keeps making such statements, He accepted that he used such jumlas during the elections. It is for the first time in the history that a state was converted into a Union Territory. And now, to divert the issue of Adani, they are using such tactics. They always use Jammu and Kashmir to divert the attention of the country. I have to say that the land of Jammu and Kashmir belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I want the people to take control of the land. '' Mufti also said that people were earlier called anti-nationals and now they are calling us encroachers. She said it's our land and people should take control of the land. It belongs to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “People were earlier being called anti-national and now they are being called encroachers,'' said the Jammu and Kashmir former chief minister. Mehbooba, while replying to a question regarding G-20 summit meetings, said that it will have serious consequences if the government continues to carry out the demolition drive. ''The summit at a time of raiding BBC offices and demolishing houses will have serious consequences for the country's reputation, '' said Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Mehbooba also said that while PDP was in coalition with BJP, they did not allow them to make any anti-people decisions. We didn’t allow them to carry out any anti-people activity. People can criticise me for my steps. I am not BJP, but till the government was there, we didn’t allow their agenda to prevail,” Mehbooba added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Home Minister Shah; says first they called us anti nationals and now encroachers

The ski slopes of Gulmarg have attracted skiers from across the world for decades. Every winter, skiers from different parts of the world land up in Kashmir region's Gulmarg ski resort. But the sport has always been dominated by men. There have hardly been any women in the past coming to Gulmarg to ski.&nbsp;

But slowly the trend is changing as women from across the world are coming to Gulmarg to ski from the famous Apharwat Heights. 29-year-old Ritika Garg, a Chartered accountant from Mumbai came to Kashmir a few years ago and to her surprise, she never left. Ritika fell in love with Kashmir on her very first trip. She decided to leave her corporate job and learn skiing in Gulmarg.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-khelo-india-winter-games-begins-in-kashmir-with-mass-women-participation-560622">India: Khelo India Winter Games begins in Kashmir with mass women participation</a>

And now Ritika does not only ski on the Apharwat Heights but also trains solo female travellers from across the world to learn skiing. "Much against the advice of friends and family and with fear in my heart due to the negative media reportage on Kashmir, I decided to come for a week to kashmir in 2021 and ended up staying in Kashmir for six months straight. The best part of Kashmir is not the natural views or snow, but the people and I found that it is the safest place in the country. And with this faith in my heart, I wanted more and more women, particularly solo women travellers to come to Kashmir. '' said Ritika Garg, Professional Skier, CEO High-on-Trips.&nbsp;

Ritika started a small travel company by the name of High-on-Trips, which caters to women travellers only. She has trained dozens of women in the last two years in Gulmarg. And she is also participating in the 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games held at Gulmarg.&nbsp;

WATCH | Pathaan: Multiplex running houseful in Srinagar, SRK brings joy in Kashmir

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pathaan-multiplex-running-houseful-in-srinagar-srk-brings-joy-in-kashmir-561028/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In the last two years I have trained more than 35 women, mostly solo travellers in age groups of 18-35 and I am booked for not only this season but for the next season as well. Women across the country are enthusiastic about travelling solo, but need a little support which I am providing them" said Ritika Garg, Professional Skier, CEO High-on-Trips.&nbsp;

The 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games is going on at Gulmarg Ski resort in North Kashmir. And this year the number of female athletes has seen a huge jump from previous years. Many skiers from various parts of India have come to participate in the winter games. And many of them are participating and preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. One such female skier is 14-year-old Jiya Aryan. Jiya is representing Karnataka at the 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games and also preparing herself for the Winter Olympics. She has already won India its first International Under 16 Gold medal in Alpine skiing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The ski slopes of Gulmarg have attracted skiers from across the world for decades. Every winter, skiers from different parts of the world land up in Kashmir region's Gulmarg ski resort.

The ski slopes of Gulmarg have attracted skiers from across the world for decades. Every winter, skiers from different parts of the world land up in Kashmir region's Gulmarg ski resort. But the sport has always been dominated by men. There have hardly been any women in the past coming to Gulmarg to ski. But slowly the trend is changing as women from across the world are coming to Gulmarg to ski from the famous Apharwat Heights. 29-year-old Ritika Garg, a Chartered accountant from Mumbai came to Kashmir a few years ago and to her surprise, she never left. Ritika fell in love with Kashmir on her very first trip. She decided to leave her corporate job and learn skiing in Gulmarg. ALSO READ | India: Khelo India Winter Games begins in Kashmir with mass women participation And now Ritika does not only ski on the Apharwat Heights but also trains solo female travellers from across the world to learn skiing. "Much against the advice of friends and family and with fear in my heart due to the negative media reportage on Kashmir, I decided to come for a week to kashmir in 2021 and ended up staying in Kashmir for six months straight. The best part of Kashmir is not the natural views or snow, but the people and I found that it is the safest place in the country. And with this faith in my heart, I wanted more and more women, particularly solo women travellers to come to Kashmir. '' said Ritika Garg, Professional Skier, CEO High-on-Trips. Ritika started a small travel company by the name of High-on-Trips, which caters to women travellers only. She has trained dozens of women in the last two years in Gulmarg. And she is also participating in the 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games held at Gulmarg. WATCH | Pathaan: Multiplex running houseful in Srinagar, SRK brings joy in Kashmir "In the last two years I have trained more than 35 women, mostly solo travellers in age groups of 18-35 and I am booked for not only this season but for the next season as well. Women across the country are enthusiastic about travelling solo, but need a little support which I am providing them" said Ritika Garg, Professional Skier, CEO High-on-Trips. The 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games is going on at Gulmarg Ski resort in North Kashmir. And this year the number of female athletes has seen a huge jump from previous years. Many skiers from various parts of India have come to participate in the winter games. And many of them are participating and preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. One such female skier is 14-year-old Jiya Aryan. Jiya is representing Karnataka at the 3rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games and also preparing herself for the Winter Olympics. She has already won India its first International Under 16 Gold medal in Alpine skiing. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gulmarg Ski resort witnesses huge jump in number of female ski instructors

Kashmir Valley saw the return of cinema after 30 long years. And with the release of Shahrukh Khan-starrer 'Pathaan' movie, the lone Multiplex in Srinagar has been running house-full shows. Thousands of people in the valley have watched the movie in this&nbsp;theatre since its release and the&nbsp;numbers hardly seem to go down.&nbsp;

Srinagar's multiplex is running six shows of the SRK movie every day. And most of the shows are running house-full. The moviegoers of the valley are extremely ecstatic to finally watch films on a bigger screen. And the theatre is witnessing so much love from the people&nbsp;that even the Multiplex had to tweet and thank the people of Kashmir for showering so much love.&nbsp;

''Kashmir has shown 'extraordinary love' to Pathaan and Shah Rukh Khan. Today with the Pathaan frenzy gripping the nation, we are grateful to KING KHAN for bringing the treasured HOUSEFULL sign back to the Kashmir Valley after 32 long years.&nbsp;Thank you, Shah Rukh Khan,'' tweeted Inox Theatres.&nbsp;

''The movie was released on 25th January, and We had not expected this much rush. It's after a gap of 32 years that a cinema opened in the Kashmir Valley, and to watch Shahrukh Khan on the silver screen, we have seen a huge number of people coming to watch the movie, which we had not expected. It's still running Housefull and more than 11000 people have watched the movie so far. And I am sure it will further grow. It's not only in Srinagar but from various districts of Kashmir region who are coming from far off areas to watch the movie on the big screen,'' said Obaid Ahmad, Staff, Inox Srinagar

Shah Rukh Khan fans not only from Srinagar but other far-flung districts of the Kashmir region are coming to the cinema to watch his film on the bigger screen..&nbsp;Kashmir had dozens of&nbsp;Cinema&nbsp;Halls till early 1990, but with the start of the insurgency, all the&nbsp;cinema&nbsp;halls in the valley were shut down.&nbsp;

''I cannot explain it in words, It's such a feeling. Last time I went to Jammu to see Shahrukh Khan's cameo in the Brahmastra movie. As there was no theatre in the valley. But now we have a theatre&nbsp;here and it's&nbsp;great. We do deserve to have means of entertainment. I wish we have theatres in every district of the Valley. Everyone should have access to movies and entertainment,'' said Adnan Ahmad, Local Youngster.&nbsp;

The Multiplex located in Srinagar's Shivpora area has three screens and a total seating capacity of around 520 people.&nbsp;And despite snowfall and Minus degree temperatures, these film lovers are braving all these harsh weather conditions and coming to the cinema. And it's for the first time after the reopening of the cinema in Valley, that Housefull boards have propped up outside the Multiplex.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-william-and-kate-middleton-will-attend-bafta-2023-after-two-year-hiatus-560876">Prince William and Kate Middleton will attend BAFTA 2023 after two-year hiatus</a>

''I am super excited to have come to the theatre in Srinagar to watch Shahrukh's Pathan. I am very eager. I have seen movies in cinema halls outside Kashmir as I study there. But I am so happy to come here with my friends in Kashmir.&nbsp;I want more and more theatres to open in Kashmir Valley, '' said Rohit Hassan, Local Youth.&nbsp;

Pathaan was released&nbsp;worldwide on January 25 and since then has been running house-full shows in Srinagar. The movie has done over 800 crores business so far. And the movie has garnered so much public support that not only locals but even foreigners living in the valley are also thronging the theatre.&nbsp;

''I am very very excited to see the movie Pathaan, It's a Shahrukh movie and it's a must-watch. And to see a movie in a theatre in Kashmir is a very nice experience. We are feeling very nice that theatres have opened in Kashmir, and we can come to see films on the big screen. I have grown up on movies and it is very difficult to imagine how people lived without Cinema for so long, '' said Anil Kumar.&nbsp;

Thousands of Kashmiris&nbsp;have thronged the theatre in the last two weeks to watch the film and the numbers hardly seem to come down.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Kashmir Valley saw the return of cinema after 30 long years. And with the release of Shahrukh Khan-starrer 'Pathaan' movie, the lone Multiplex in Srinagar has been running house-full shows.

Kashmir Valley saw the return of cinema after 30 long years. And with the release of Shahrukh Khan-starrer 'Pathaan' movie, the lone Multiplex in Srinagar has been running house-full shows. Thousands of people in the valley have watched the movie in this theatre since its release and the numbers hardly seem to go down. Srinagar's multiplex is running six shows of the SRK movie every day. And most of the shows are running house-full. The moviegoers of the valley are extremely ecstatic to finally watch films on a bigger screen. And the theatre is witnessing so much love from the people that even the Multiplex had to tweet and thank the people of Kashmir for showering so much love. ''Kashmir has shown 'extraordinary love' to Pathaan and Shah Rukh Khan. Today with the Pathaan frenzy gripping the nation, we are grateful to KING KHAN for bringing the treasured HOUSEFULL sign back to the Kashmir Valley after 32 long years. Thank you, Shah Rukh Khan,'' tweeted Inox Theatres. ''The movie was released on 25th January, and We had not expected this much rush. It's after a gap of 32 years that a cinema opened in the Kashmir Valley, and to watch Shahrukh Khan on the silver screen, we have seen a huge number of people coming to watch the movie, which we had not expected. It's still running Housefull and more than 11000 people have watched the movie so far. And I am sure it will further grow. It's not only in Srinagar but from various districts of Kashmir region who are coming from far off areas to watch the movie on the big screen,'' said Obaid Ahmad, Staff, Inox Srinagar Shah Rukh Khan fans not only from Srinagar but other far-flung districts of the Kashmir region are coming to the cinema to watch his film on the bigger screen.. Kashmir had dozens of Cinema Halls till early 1990, but with the start of the insurgency, all the cinema halls in the valley were shut down. ''I cannot explain it in words, It's such a feeling. Last time I went to Jammu to see Shahrukh Khan's cameo in the Brahmastra movie. As there was no theatre in the valley. But now we have a theatre here and it's great. We do deserve to have means of entertainment. I wish we have theatres in every district of the Valley. Everyone should have access to movies and entertainment,'' said Adnan Ahmad, Local Youngster. The Multiplex located in Srinagar's Shivpora area has three screens and a total seating capacity of around 520 people. And despite snowfall and Minus degree temperatures, these film lovers are braving all these harsh weather conditions and coming to the cinema. And it's for the first time after the reopening of the cinema in Valley, that Housefull boards have propped up outside the Multiplex. Also read: Prince William and Kate Middleton will attend BAFTA 2023 after two-year hiatus ''I am super excited to have come to the theatre in Srinagar to watch Shahrukh's Pathan. I am very eager. I have seen movies in cinema halls outside Kashmir as I study there. But I am so happy to come here with my friends in Kashmir. I want more and more theatres to open in Kashmir Valley, '' said Rohit Hassan, Local Youth. Pathaan was released worldwide on January 25 and since then has been running house-full shows in Srinagar. The movie has done over 800 crores business so far. And the movie has garnered so much public support that not only locals but even foreigners living in the valley are also thronging the theatre. ''I am very very excited to see the movie Pathaan, It's a Shahrukh movie and it's a must-watch. And to see a movie in a theatre in Kashmir is a very nice experience. We are feeling very nice that theatres have opened in Kashmir, and we can come to see films on the big screen. I have grown up on movies and it is very difficult to imagine how people lived without Cinema for so long, '' said Anil Kumar. Thousands of Kashmiris have thronged the theatre in the last two weeks to watch the film and the numbers hardly seem to come down. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After 32 years, Kashmir’s lone theatre continues to remain jam-packed for 'Pathaan'

Jammu and Kashmir is hosting the third&nbsp;edition of the Khelo India Winter Games at the world-famous Ski resort Gulmarg. Over 1500 athletes from 29 states of India have arrived to participate in 11 sporting events. This is the second time Gulmarg is hosting the Khelo India winter games.&nbsp;

The Union Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur along with LG of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha kick-started the games today. The five-day event will be attended by hundreds of athletes of the country.&nbsp;

“I am glad we are able to organise the third edition of Khelo India. There are more than 1500 players who have come from 29 states to participate. I am sure we will see a lot of great talent who will be picked to play national and international tournaments. I am sure more and more youth will come to learn ski and winter sports activities. We need to build good infrastructure for sports,” said Anurag Thakur.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Are you ready for the Exhilarating &amp; Energetic Khelo India Winter Games 2022 to be held in Gulmarg from February 10th-14th. 
 
1500 athletes, 9 sporting disciplines and 1 champion!! 
 
I will watch these Games closely on Doordarshan, will you? <a href="https://t.co/qEst54zx3e">pic.twitter.com/qEst54zx3e</a>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1622072681058435074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to the government, the winter games are a platform for the youth of the country to compete and reach a level where they can represent the country. Holding the winter games in Kashmir not only provides an opportunity for athletes but also promotes tourism.&nbsp;

“If you look at mountaineering institute and ski institute, most of the instructors are from Kashmir. The students are from the rest of the country. This is what they are giving to the rest of the country. It will help create more job opportunities for the region. I have seen how numbers of tourists have increased and also the number of adventure sports people,” added the sports minister.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-hurriyat-leaders-shopping-complex-demolished-in-south-kashmir-558159">Read more:&nbsp;India: Hurriyat leader’s shopping complex demolished in South Kashmir</a>

This year the number of female athletes has increased at the Khelo India Winter games. Many female athletes are preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics and among them is 14-year-old Jiya Aryan, who has already won India its first International gold medal in under-16, Alpine skiing.&nbsp;

“I am really stoked and excited to participate here, and athletes of the winter sports are getting a lot of exposure. We are really getting the kind of exposure that is required and equivalent of summer sports in India. We need to be on the same track if we want to win a medal at Olympics. Gulmarg is a natural platform for us athletes. I can give it in writing that many women would be participating in Winter Olympics in 2026,” said Jiya Aryan.&nbsp;

The sports ministry is pushing for winter sports as it wants the country to produce more athletes that can unfurl the tricolour at winter Olympics. Holding the Khelo India Winter Games in Kashmir is providing the&nbsp;athletes with the platform.&nbsp;

“It’s my first time in Khelo India, I am a national gold medal winner, and it’s a proud moment for me to participate here. I am sure one day I will represent the country. Gulmarg is a natural platform. We are champions and we will win despite difficulties, “ said&nbsp; 
Anushka, an athlete from Haryana.&nbsp;

The Khelo India Winter games would culminate next week on February 14.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Jammu and Kashmir is hosting the third edition of the Khelo India Winter Games at the world-famous Ski resort Gulmarg. Over 1500 athletes from 29 states of India have arrived to participate in 11 sporting events.

Jammu and Kashmir is hosting the third edition of the Khelo India Winter Games at the world-famous Ski resort Gulmarg. Over 1500 athletes from 29 states of India have arrived to participate in 11 sporting events. This is the second time Gulmarg is hosting the Khelo India winter games. The Union Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur along with LG of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha kick-started the games today. The five-day event will be attended by hundreds of athletes of the country. “I am glad we are able to organise the third edition of Khelo India. There are more than 1500 players who have come from 29 states to participate. I am sure we will see a lot of great talent who will be picked to play national and international tournaments. I am sure more and more youth will come to learn ski and winter sports activities. We need to build good infrastructure for sports,” said Anurag Thakur. Are you ready for the Exhilarating & Energetic Khelo India Winter Games 2022 to be held in Gulmarg from February 10th-14th. 1500 athletes, 9 sporting disciplines and 1 champion!! I will watch these Games closely on Doordarshan, will you? pic.twitter.com/qEst54zx3e — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) February 5, 2023 × According to the government, the winter games are a platform for the youth of the country to compete and reach a level where they can represent the country. Holding the winter games in Kashmir not only provides an opportunity for athletes but also promotes tourism. “If you look at mountaineering institute and ski institute, most of the instructors are from Kashmir. The students are from the rest of the country. This is what they are giving to the rest of the country. It will help create more job opportunities for the region. I have seen how numbers of tourists have increased and also the number of adventure sports people,” added the sports minister. Read more: India: Hurriyat leader’s shopping complex demolished in South Kashmir This year the number of female athletes has increased at the Khelo India Winter games. Many female athletes are preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics and among them is 14-year-old Jiya Aryan, who has already won India its first International gold medal in under-16, Alpine skiing. “I am really stoked and excited to participate here, and athletes of the winter sports are getting a lot of exposure. We are really getting the kind of exposure that is required and equivalent of summer sports in India. We need to be on the same track if we want to win a medal at Olympics. Gulmarg is a natural platform for us athletes. I can give it in writing that many women would be participating in Winter Olympics in 2026,” said Jiya Aryan. The sports ministry is pushing for winter sports as it wants the country to produce more athletes that can unfurl the tricolour at winter Olympics. Holding the Khelo India Winter Games in Kashmir is providing the athletes with the platform. “It’s my first time in Khelo India, I am a national gold medal winner, and it’s a proud moment for me to participate here. I am sure one day I will represent the country. Gulmarg is a natural platform. We are champions and we will win despite difficulties, “ said Anushka, an athlete from Haryana. The Khelo India Winter games would culminate next week on February 14. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Khelo India Winter Games begins in Kashmir with mass women participation

In India, the Jammu and Kashmir police has for the first time recovered a 'perfume IED' in the Union Territory. While investigating the January 21 IED blast at Narwal in Jammu, the police achieved a breakthrough and arrested a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is alleged to be involved in the twin blasts and recovered a 'Perfume IED' from him.&nbsp;

While interacting with media on Thursday (February 2), the J&amp;K Police Director General Dilbag&nbsp;Singh said that, “A ‘perfume IED’,&nbsp;the first of its kind, has been recovered from the possession of the arrested terrorist. This is a first new approach after the terrorist used sticky bombs. They have also used timer-fitted IEDs earlier.”&nbsp;

"We have seen previously that various types of IEDs have been used by terrorists with explosive materials, sticky bombs and the timer-fitted ones, but this time we have recovered a new type of IED, which is the 'perfume IED'. This IED is like a perfume bottle but contains explosive material. Since the IED is new to us, experts will see how harmful and how powerful it can be," said Singh.&nbsp;

He also commended the J&amp;K police officers probing the Narwal case. He said that they achieved a major success in the form of the arrest of Arif Ahmed, a resident of the Reasi district of Jammu, within 11 days of the blast.&nbsp;

"Arif is a government employee and is an active terrorist of the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit. He will not only lose his job, but we will file a strong case against him. Although he has very cleverly burnt all the evidence like his clothes, shoes and he even his mobile phone. But police worked hard on even small inputs and leads that led to the arrest of Arif," Singh added. &nbsp;

The DG of JK Police said that the main aim of these IEDs is to target innocent people and to trigger communal hatred in the Jammu region. According to the police, Arif has revealed that these IEDs were air-dropped through drones from across the border.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In India, the Jammu and Kashmir police has for the first time recovered a 'perfume IED' in the Union Territory. While investigating the January 21 IED blast at Narwal in Jammu, the police achieved a breakthrough and arrested a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is alleged to be involved in the twin blasts and recovered a 'Perfume IED' from him.

In India, the Jammu and Kashmir police has for the first time recovered a 'perfume IED' in the Union Territory. While investigating the January 21 IED blast at Narwal in Jammu, the police achieved a breakthrough and arrested a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is alleged to be involved in the twin blasts and recovered a 'Perfume IED' from him. While interacting with media on Thursday (February 2), the J&K Police Director General Dilbag Singh said that, “A ‘perfume IED’, the first of its kind, has been recovered from the possession of the arrested terrorist. This is a first new approach after the terrorist used sticky bombs. They have also used timer-fitted IEDs earlier.” "We have seen previously that various types of IEDs have been used by terrorists with explosive materials, sticky bombs and the timer-fitted ones, but this time we have recovered a new type of IED, which is the 'perfume IED'. This IED is like a perfume bottle but contains explosive material. Since the IED is new to us, experts will see how harmful and how powerful it can be," said Singh. He also commended the J&K police officers probing the Narwal case. He said that they achieved a major success in the form of the arrest of Arif Ahmed, a resident of the Reasi district of Jammu, within 11 days of the blast. "Arif is a government employee and is an active terrorist of the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit. He will not only lose his job, but we will file a strong case against him. Although he has very cleverly burnt all the evidence like his clothes, shoes and he even his mobile phone. But police worked hard on even small inputs and leads that led to the arrest of Arif," Singh added. The DG of JK Police said that the main aim of these IEDs is to target innocent people and to trigger communal hatred in the Jammu region. According to the police, Arif has revealed that these IEDs were air-dropped through drones from across the border. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: J&K police recover ‘perfume bomb’ for the first time, from arrested Lashkar terrorist

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) administration on Thursday (February 2) demolished a shopping complex belonging to Hurriyat leader and former Mirwaiz of South Kashmir Qazi Yasir. The complex, which was located in the Anantnag district of South Kashmir, was razed to the ground by authorities who said the construction was illegal. The state administration has been continuously taking action against the state land grabbers and encroachers.&nbsp;

The administration has launched a massive drive to retrieve thousands of acres of state Kahcharayi land grabbed by people, particularly influential politicians and high-ranking officials. And during the drive, the action was taken against Qazi Yasir in Anantnag on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nia-seals-hurriyat-conference-head-office-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-srinagar-557003">NIA seals Hurriyat Conference head office in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar</a>

Government officials said that Yasir "had illegally built this shopping complex, and the land also belongs to the state.'' The officials said that the complex was demolished while the shops were sealed and they would be handed over to the municipal council of Anantnag.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Massive Avalanche hits India's Kashmir

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/massive-avalanche-hits-indias-kashmir-558016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

'We have demolished the complex and the shops have been sealed. The shops will be handed over to the Municipal council Anantnag for further use,” they added.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) administration on Thursday (February 2) demolished a shopping complex belonging to Hurriyat leader and former Mirwaiz of South Kashmir Qazi Yasir.

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) administration on Thursday (February 2) demolished a shopping complex belonging to Hurriyat leader and former Mirwaiz of South Kashmir Qazi Yasir. The complex, which was located in the Anantnag district of South Kashmir, was razed to the ground by authorities who said the construction was illegal. The state administration has been continuously taking action against the state land grabbers and encroachers. The administration has launched a massive drive to retrieve thousands of acres of state Kahcharayi land grabbed by people, particularly influential politicians and high-ranking officials. And during the drive, the action was taken against Qazi Yasir in Anantnag on Thursday. ALSO READ | NIA seals Hurriyat Conference head office in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar Government officials said that Yasir "had illegally built this shopping complex, and the land also belongs to the state.'' The officials said that the complex was demolished while the shops were sealed and they would be handed over to the municipal council of Anantnag. ALSO WATCH | Massive Avalanche hits India's Kashmir × 'We have demolished the complex and the shops have been sealed. The shops will be handed over to the Municipal council Anantnag for further use,” they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Hurriyat leader’s shopping complex demolished in South Kashmir

A day after Jammu Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) issued an alert, a massive avalanche hit the upper reaches of the Afarwat peak of Gulmarg in North Kashmir, officials informed on Wednesday.

A day after Jammu Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) issued an alert, a massive avalanche hit the upper reaches of the Afarwat peak of Gulmarg in North Kashmir, officials informed on Wednesday. Bodies of two persons belonging to Poland have been retrieved from underneath the snow mass while 18 (eight Russians, 10 Polish) tourists have been rescued, according to officials. The officials monitoring the rescue operation said that soon after receiving information about the incident, a large-scale rescue operation was launched at the site, during which the bodies of two persons were retrieved. "Avalanche hit the Afarwat peak #HapathKhud at famous ski resort in #Gulmarg.#Rescue operation has been launched by #Baramulla Police alongwith other agencies. Reports of some skiers being trapped are being corroborated. More details shall follow," tweeted Baramulla Police immediately after the accident. Scary #Avalanche in #Gulmarg some skiers are believed to be trapped That avalanche comes from Hapath Khud side Casualties also reported 🙏🏻#Baramulla #Kashmir pic.twitter.com/TPVQL6aM3Q — Weatherman Shubham (@shubhamtorres09) February 1, 2023 × JKDMA in its warning on Tuesday had said, "Avalanche with *MEDIUM Danger Level* is likely to occur above *1800 to 2400 metres* over *BANDIPORE, BARAMULLA, GANDERBAL, KUPWARA, KULGAM, POONCH & REASI* districts in next 24 hours." “People living in these areas are advised to take precautions and avoid venturing in the avalanche prone areas,” it added. AVALANCHE WARNING 30.01.2023 *HIGH Danger Level Avalanche* is likely to occur above 2500 metres above sea level over *DODA, KISHTWAR & POONCH* districts in next 24 hours. — JK DMA (@jk_sdma) January 30, 2023 × This is not the first instance when a humongous avalanche has been reported in Kashmir. Last week, the natural calamity took place in Kashmir's Kishtwar district as millions of tonnes of snow slid down into a river near a small village in the Mechali Belt. Read more: At least one dead in avalanche at Ganderbal in Kashmir, rescue operations underway Last month, an avalanche was caught on camera in the Baltal area of Sonamarg. It was shared widely on social media platforms, much to the horror of netizens. Reportedly, two labourers got caught in the avalanche and lost their lives, An avalanche may look innocuous but once a person is caught in it, they cannot move around as the weight of ice easily weighs several hundred tonnes. Watch this report: × Avalanches usually occur when a delicate layer of snow collapses and slides rapidly down a hill. The process begins when forces due to gravity, fresh snow, an explosion or additional weight of the skier exceeds the mechanical strength of packed snow and ice. Kashmir's coldest period, also colloquially called 'Chilla-i-Kalan' begins in December and lasts for 40 days. However, this time around, the temperature has not dropped much despite the calendar ticking into February. Read more: Kashmir’s coldest period 'Chilla-i-Kalan' begins, Srinagar records coldest night of season (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Massive avalanche hits Kashmir's Gulmarg, two dead, 18 rescued

Jammu and Kashmir received the season's first major spell of snowfall Sunday, disrupting surface traffic and affecting normal life in the region. The Srinagar Jammu National Highway which connects Kashmir to rest of India has been shut. Srinagar-Leh Highway and other major roads connecting far-flung areas of Kashmir with Srinagar are also closed.

The bad weather also affected air traffic to and from the Valley as flight operations at the Srinagar airport were suspended. The Srinagar Airport in a statement said, “Our visibility is only 200 metres and there is continuous snowfall. We are simultaneously clearing the snow. All flights are delayed. To avoid inconvenience and to avoid congestion, please check the status of your flight from your airlines before coming to the airport."&nbsp;

All train services in the Kashmir region have also been suspended. “The train service will remain suspended until the snow on the railway line is removed. The railway will resume its operations as soon as the snow is cleared. After the snow is cleared, WDS 4 will go first, then the train is expected to run,” said a statement by Kashmir Railways.&nbsp;

In wake of the fresh snowfall, the government has rescheduled all the Post Graduate exams in the Valley. “All PG, engineering and other examinations scheduled to be held on January 30, 2023 (Monday) (have been) postponed in view of inclement weather conditions. Fresh dates for the deferred examinations will be notified separately later,” said Controller Examinations Kashmir University.&nbsp;

The meteorological department has predicted light to moderate snow across Kashmir region today.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Jammu and Kashmir received the season's first major spell of snowfall Sunday, disrupting surface traffic and affecting normal life in the region. The Srinagar Jammu National Highway which connects Kashmir to rest of India has been shut.

Jammu and Kashmir received the season's first major spell of snowfall Sunday, disrupting surface traffic and affecting normal life in the region. The Srinagar Jammu National Highway which connects Kashmir to rest of India has been shut. Srinagar-Leh Highway and other major roads connecting far-flung areas of Kashmir with Srinagar are also closed. The bad weather also affected air traffic to and from the Valley as flight operations at the Srinagar airport were suspended. The Srinagar Airport in a statement said, “Our visibility is only 200 metres and there is continuous snowfall. We are simultaneously clearing the snow. All flights are delayed. To avoid inconvenience and to avoid congestion, please check the status of your flight from your airlines before coming to the airport." All train services in the Kashmir region have also been suspended. “The train service will remain suspended until the snow on the railway line is removed. The railway will resume its operations as soon as the snow is cleared. After the snow is cleared, WDS 4 will go first, then the train is expected to run,” said a statement by Kashmir Railways. In wake of the fresh snowfall, the government has rescheduled all the Post Graduate exams in the Valley. “All PG, engineering and other examinations scheduled to be held on January 30, 2023 (Monday) (have been) postponed in view of inclement weather conditions. Fresh dates for the deferred examinations will be notified separately later,” said Controller Examinations Kashmir University. The meteorological department has predicted light to moderate snow across Kashmir region today. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Heavy snowfall brings normal life to a halt in Kashmir; all National Highways closed, flights, trains affected

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday sealed the office of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) headquarters in Srinagar’s Rajbagh area on the orders of a Delhi court in a terror funding case.&nbsp;A team of NIA from the national capital New Delhi arrived in Srinagar and closed down the premises under the provisions of the&nbsp;Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

“This is to inform all members of the public that the building where the office of All Party Hurriyat Conference is located at Rajbagh and is owned jointly by Nayeem Ahmad Khan, who is presently facing trial…has been attached by the court order dated 27th January 2023 of Special NIA Court Patiala House, New Delhi,” the notice read.

The Hurriyat Conference is an alliance of 26 separatist outfits formed in 1993 to perpetrate separatism in the troubled state.

The office has remained closed since August 2019 following a crackdown on separatist groups by the government.&nbsp;

The members of APHC, along with Pakistan-based terrorist Hafiz Saeed and proscribed terror organisations like Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), are accused of “funding separatist and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir”.

On Saturday, an order was issued by Shailender Malik, Additional Session Judge, calling on the NIA to attach the immovable property of APHC.

The court observed that APHC headquarters was used to hold meetings to strategise protests, stone pelting and terror funding activities in the Kashmir region.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday sealed the office of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) headquarters in Srinagar’s Rajbagh area on the orders of a Delhi court in a terror funding case.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday sealed the office of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) headquarters in Srinagar’s Rajbagh area on the orders of a Delhi court in a terror funding case. A team of NIA from the national capital New Delhi arrived in Srinagar and closed down the premises under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). “This is to inform all members of the public that the building where the office of All Party Hurriyat Conference is located at Rajbagh and is owned jointly by Nayeem Ahmad Khan, who is presently facing trial…has been attached by the court order dated 27th January 2023 of Special NIA Court Patiala House, New Delhi,” the notice read. The Hurriyat Conference is an alliance of 26 separatist outfits formed in 1993 to perpetrate separatism in the troubled state. The office has remained closed since August 2019 following a crackdown on separatist groups by the government. The members of APHC, along with Pakistan-based terrorist Hafiz Saeed and proscribed terror organisations like Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), are accused of “funding separatist and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir”. On Saturday, an order was issued by Shailender Malik, Additional Session Judge, calling on the NIA to attach the immovable property of APHC. The court observed that APHC headquarters was used to hold meetings to strategise protests, stone pelting and terror funding activities in the Kashmir region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: NIA seals Hurriyat Conference head office in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of not providing a security cover for his ongoing "Bharat Jodo Yatra", which entered the Kashmir valley today. Rahul Gandhi said that he had to cancel his&nbsp;Yatra in South Kashmir on Friday as there were no policemen for crowd control. &nbsp;

"This morning we had quite a large crowd that had gathered. And we were looking forward to walking on the Bharat Jodo Yatra, but unfortunately, the police arrangement completely collapsed and the police people who were supposed to manage the crowd were nowhere to be seen," said Gandhi.&nbsp;

"So, my security people were very uncomfortable with me walking further. So, we had to cancel my yatra. The other yatris did the walk. The police must manage the crowd for the yatra to go on. It becomes difficult for me to go against what my security people are saying," he added.&nbsp;

Congress leaders said that Rahul Gandhi was supposed to walk 16 km today but he had to cancel the walk after four kilometres as there were no policemen to control crowd. They have now asked the administration to provide enough security for the yatra&nbsp;in the coming days.&nbsp;

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, also joined Rahul Gandhi in the "Bharat Jodo Yatra" on Friday. He also alleged that the moment they entered the Kashmir Valley, the policemen guarding them vanished within minutes.&nbsp;

"I'm witness to this. The outer ring of the cordon which was maintained by J&amp;K police simply vanished within minutes of @RahulGandhi starting to walk. We had just crossed into Kashmir from Jammu &amp; were looking forward to the 11 KM walk but unfortunately, it got cancelled," said Omar.&nbsp;

Congress leaders, however, said that they are hopeful that security arrangements would be elaborate for&nbsp;Gandhi's upcoming events across the Kashmir region including his culmination rally in Srinagar.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of not providing a security cover for his ongoing "Bharat Jodo Yatra", which entered the Kashmir valley today.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of not providing a security cover for his ongoing "Bharat Jodo Yatra", which entered the Kashmir valley today. Rahul Gandhi said that he had to cancel his Yatra in South Kashmir on Friday as there were no policemen for crowd control. "This morning we had quite a large crowd that had gathered. And we were looking forward to walking on the Bharat Jodo Yatra, but unfortunately, the police arrangement completely collapsed and the police people who were supposed to manage the crowd were nowhere to be seen," said Gandhi. "So, my security people were very uncomfortable with me walking further. So, we had to cancel my yatra. The other yatris did the walk. The police must manage the crowd for the yatra to go on. It becomes difficult for me to go against what my security people are saying," he added. Congress leaders said that Rahul Gandhi was supposed to walk 16 km today but he had to cancel the walk after four kilometres as there were no policemen to control crowd. They have now asked the administration to provide enough security for the yatra in the coming days. Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, also joined Rahul Gandhi in the "Bharat Jodo Yatra" on Friday. He also alleged that the moment they entered the Kashmir Valley, the policemen guarding them vanished within minutes. "I'm witness to this. The outer ring of the cordon which was maintained by J&K police simply vanished within minutes of @RahulGandhi starting to walk. We had just crossed into Kashmir from Jammu & were looking forward to the 11 KM walk but unfortunately, it got cancelled," said Omar. Congress leaders, however, said that they are hopeful that security arrangements would be elaborate for Gandhi's upcoming events across the Kashmir region including his culmination rally in Srinagar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bharat Jodo Yatra: Rahul Gandhi blames J&K government for security breach

Ghulam Mohammad Zaz's hard work, dedication and love towards his craft have finally paid off. Zaz was awarded the nation's fourth highest civilian award Padma Shri on the 74th Republic Day of India. He is the only artist alive making traditional Kashmiri musical instruments like Santoor, Rabab and Sarangi in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Celebrations are on in Ghulam Mohammad Zaz's home after the news came in about Zaz getting India's highest civilian award. The family, friends and neighbours are thronging his residence in the Zaina Kadal area of Srinagar city. He is the eighth generation of makers of musical instruments in the Kashmir region. And he dedicates this award to the previous generations from whom he learnt and carried forward the art.&nbsp;

"It's God's grace and I am highly thankful to the Government for the Award. It has given me a lot of happiness. This award is for those who taught me,7 generations before me in my family have been making these musical Instruments. I am the 8th generation, and I will keep making these instruments. This craft always remained within the family. I did not do this work for money, It was given to me by my forefathers," said Ghulam Mohammad Zaz.&nbsp;

Zaz is famous for making the most unique musical instruments of Kashmir, they have been preferred by some of the best musicians in India. And not only does he make these instruments for artists in India but abroad too.&nbsp;

His musical instruments have been used by musicians in Europe, the United States and the Middle East. Musicians like Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Bhajan Sopori and many more have performed internationally playing Santoor made by Ghulam Mohammad Zaz.&nbsp;

"Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Bhajan Sopori were one of the pioneers of Santoor players in the country. They took it to another level. Their children are keeping the tradition alive. But what their parents did for the instrument is unmatchable. I have been sending these instruments across the world. Artists from Europe play the same instrument in a different way. I am sad that in the future there is no one taking this tradition forward, but I am also hopeful that the art will not die," said Ghulam Mohammad Zaz.&nbsp;

The locality where Zaz lives is celebrating his award. His family and friends are proud that he has been rewarded for his immense hard work and dedication towards the craft for over seven decades. Zaz has three daughters and all of them are extremely proud of their father's work.&nbsp;

"We are extremely proud of Papa. His dedication towards his work has finally been appreciated by the government. I am feeling happy. It's a celebration all over, we have been receiving so many calls and we are very happy and proud," said Ishfaq Ahmad, who is the son-in-law of Zaz.&nbsp;

If the government does not intervene, the art of making these musical instruments may not survive in future.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ghulam Mohammad Zaz's hard work, dedication and love towards his craft have finally paid off. Zaz was awarded the nation's fourth highest civilian award Padma Shri on the 74th Republic Day of India.

Ghulam Mohammad Zaz's hard work, dedication and love towards his craft have finally paid off. Zaz was awarded the nation's fourth highest civilian award Padma Shri on the 74th Republic Day of India. He is the only artist alive making traditional Kashmiri musical instruments like Santoor, Rabab and Sarangi in Jammu and Kashmir. Celebrations are on in Ghulam Mohammad Zaz's home after the news came in about Zaz getting India's highest civilian award. The family, friends and neighbours are thronging his residence in the Zaina Kadal area of Srinagar city. He is the eighth generation of makers of musical instruments in the Kashmir region. And he dedicates this award to the previous generations from whom he learnt and carried forward the art. "It's God's grace and I am highly thankful to the Government for the Award. It has given me a lot of happiness. This award is for those who taught me,7 generations before me in my family have been making these musical Instruments. I am the 8th generation, and I will keep making these instruments. This craft always remained within the family. I did not do this work for money, It was given to me by my forefathers," said Ghulam Mohammad Zaz. Zaz is famous for making the most unique musical instruments of Kashmir, they have been preferred by some of the best musicians in India. And not only does he make these instruments for artists in India but abroad too. His musical instruments have been used by musicians in Europe, the United States and the Middle East. Musicians like Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Bhajan Sopori and many more have performed internationally playing Santoor made by Ghulam Mohammad Zaz. "Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Bhajan Sopori were one of the pioneers of Santoor players in the country. They took it to another level. Their children are keeping the tradition alive. But what their parents did for the instrument is unmatchable. I have been sending these instruments across the world. Artists from Europe play the same instrument in a different way. I am sad that in the future there is no one taking this tradition forward, but I am also hopeful that the art will not die," said Ghulam Mohammad Zaz. The locality where Zaz lives is celebrating his award. His family and friends are proud that he has been rewarded for his immense hard work and dedication towards the craft for over seven decades. Zaz has three daughters and all of them are extremely proud of their father's work. "We are extremely proud of Papa. His dedication towards his work has finally been appreciated by the government. I am feeling happy. It's a celebration all over, we have been receiving so many calls and we are very happy and proud," said Ishfaq Ahmad, who is the son-in-law of Zaz. If the government does not intervene, the art of making these musical instruments may not survive in future. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kashmir's only maker of traditional musical instruments receives Padma Shri on Republic Day

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.