India's defence minister Rajnath Singh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moderate-rhetoric-with-india-donald-trump-tells-imran-khan-after-phone-call-with-pm-narendra-modi-244280">spoke to US secretary</a> of defence&nbsp;Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further.

During the phone call, Rajnath Singh invited US companies to invest in India's defence manufacturing sector under the "Make in India" programme.

Rajnath Singh raised the issue of cross-border terrorism affecting India and appreciated US support for India’s effort to maintain peace and stability in the region, the Ministry of Defence said.

Watch Video:

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Rajnath Singh said that issues relating to Article 370 are an internal matter of India which is&nbsp;aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Esper while speaking to Rajnath appreciated India’s position that the recent developments in Jammu &amp; Kashmir were an internal matter of India and hoped that any issue between India and Pakistan would be resolved bilaterally, the ministry of defence said in a statement.

Both the ministers exchanged views on a range of issues relating&nbsp;to military-to-military cooperation, defence policy, R&amp;D cooperation, defence trade, technology and industrial cooperation.&nbsp;

Esper and Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction on the first tri-service joint exercise planned for later this year and steps taken to operationalise agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA. 
&nbsp; 
On Monday, PM Modi had called<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-towards-regional-peace-pm-modi-to-president-trump-244225"> President Trump </a>to speak on similar lines with the Indian prime minister informing the US president that "certain nations" were spreading anti-India propaganda.&nbsp;

After the phone call with Modi, Trump called PM Imran Khan and discussed the need to reduce tensions and "moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir."

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to US secretary of defence Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to US secretary of defence Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further. During the phone call, Rajnath Singh invited US companies to invest in India's defence manufacturing sector under the "Make in India" programme. Rajnath Singh raised the issue of cross-border terrorism affecting India and appreciated US support for India’s effort to maintain peace and stability in the region, the Ministry of Defence said. Watch Video: Rajnath Singh said that issues relating to Article 370 are an internal matter of India which is aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Esper while speaking to Rajnath appreciated India’s position that the recent developments in Jammu & Kashmir were an internal matter of India and hoped that any issue between India and Pakistan would be resolved bilaterally, the ministry of defence said in a statement. Both the ministers exchanged views on a range of issues relating to military-to-military cooperation, defence policy, R&D cooperation, defence trade, technology and industrial cooperation. Esper and Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction on the first tri-service joint exercise planned for later this year and steps taken to operationalise agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA. On Monday, PM Modi had called President Trump to speak on similar lines with the Indian prime minister informing the US president that "certain nations" were spreading anti-India propaganda. After the phone call with Modi, Trump called PM Imran Khan and discussed the need to reduce tensions and "moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir."

Issues relating to Article 370 internal matter of India: Rajnath Singh to US secretary of defence Esper

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening.

"After the scrapping of Article 370, schools were closed for a few days. However, they were soon reopened. We also organised Independence day and everything is working fine," Sishu Vatika School Principal Shri Krishan told ANI.

He added that the environment in the region is getting better and several markets have also opened up.

"Students are taking all their classes and we are also carrying out seminars. The schools are functioning normally. Teachers are also counselling the students not to give heed to any rumours and focus on their studies," said Amit Sharma, a teacher at ML Higher Secondary School.

The government had on Sunday said that as many as 190 primary schools would be re-opened in Srinagar alone and that it would ease and lift the restrictions in a phased manner in the state.

"Schools were closed just for 3-4 days on orders from the district magistrate. Schools reopened afterwards. Students and teachers are coming in full strength," said Ajay Vishist, principal of a government school in the region.

Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories -&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening.

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening. "After the scrapping of Article 370, schools were closed for a few days. However, they were soon reopened. We also organised Independence day and everything is working fine," Sishu Vatika School Principal Shri Krishan told ANI. He added that the environment in the region is getting better and several markets have also opened up. "Students are taking all their classes and we are also carrying out seminars. The schools are functioning normally. Teachers are also counselling the students not to give heed to any rumours and focus on their studies," said Amit Sharma, a teacher at ML Higher Secondary School. The government had on Sunday said that as many as 190 primary schools would be re-opened in Srinagar alone and that it would ease and lift the restrictions in a phased manner in the state. "Schools were closed just for 3-4 days on orders from the district magistrate. Schools reopened afterwards. Students and teachers are coming in full strength," said Ajay Vishist, principal of a government school in the region. Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.

Jammu and Kashmir: Life on path to normalcy in Udhampur as schools, markets reopen

It's A Working Monday In Jammu & Kashmir As Restrictions Are Being Eased In A Phased Manner.

WION Gravitas: Jammu & Kashmir slowly but surely on its way to normalcy

Pakistan said on Tuesday it would take <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/issues-relating-to-article-370-internal-matter-of-india-rajnath-singh-to-us-secretary-of-defence-esper-244461">Jammu and Kashmir issue</a> to the International Court of Justice(ICJ), after the Indian government scrapped article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir

"We have decided to take Kashmir case to the International Court of Justice," foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told ARY News TV.

"The decision was taken after considering all legal aspects."

On Tuesday, India's defence minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moderate-rhetoric-with-india-donald-trump-tells-imran-khan-after-phone-call-with-pm-narendra-modi-244280">Rajnath Singh spoke to US</a> secretary of defence Mark Esper and informed him that that issues relating to Article 370 were&nbsp;an internal matter of India which was&nbsp;aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-unsc-closed-door-meeting-on-kashmir-what-happened-244253/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, PM Modi had spoken to President Trump on Monday and asserted that India is committed to regional peace. "Certain nations are spreading anti-India propaganda," the Indian prime minister told the US president during the phone call.

After the phone conversation, President Trump told PM Imran to moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The US President also reaffirmed the need to avoid escalating the&nbsp;situation&nbsp;and urged restraint.

PM Modi had told President Trump that certain leaders were resorting to extreme rhetoric and inciting anti-India violence which was not conducive to peace.&nbsp;

On Friday, Pakistan received a setback after the UNSC in a closed-door meeting did not mention article 370 after China pushed for &nbsp;“closed consultations" with member states on India's move to do away with Article 370 which was ratified by the Indian Parliament. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan said on Tuesday it would take Jammu and Kashmir issue to the International Court of Justice(ICJ), after the Indian government scrapped article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir "We have decided to take Kashmir case to the International Court of Justice," foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told ARY News TV.

Pakistan said on Tuesday it would take Jammu and Kashmir issue to the International Court of Justice(ICJ), after the Indian government scrapped article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir "We have decided to take Kashmir case to the International Court of Justice," foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told ARY News TV. "The decision was taken after considering all legal aspects." On Tuesday, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to US secretary of defence Mark Esper and informed him that that issues relating to Article 370 were an internal matter of India which was aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Watch Video: Earlier, PM Modi had spoken to President Trump on Monday and asserted that India is committed to regional peace. "Certain nations are spreading anti-India propaganda," the Indian prime minister told the US president during the phone call. After the phone conversation, President Trump told PM Imran to moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The US President also reaffirmed the need to avoid escalating the situation and urged restraint. PM Modi had told President Trump that certain leaders were resorting to extreme rhetoric and inciting anti-India violence which was not conducive to peace. On Friday, Pakistan received a setback after the UNSC in a closed-door meeting did not mention article 370 after China pushed for “closed consultations" with member states on India's move to do away with Article 370 which was ratified by the Indian Parliament.

Will take Kashmir issue to the International Court of Justice: Pak foreign minister Qureshi

In the first major step towards normalcy, schools and other educational institutions reopened in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Jammu and Kashmir on path to normalcy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today had a telephone conversation with US President Trump. The thirty-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters.

During the phone call,&nbsp;PM Modi recalled the meeting with Trump in Osaka on the margins of the G-20 summit in June.

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Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a telephone conversation today with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> H.E. Mr. Donald Trump. Their thirty-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters and was marked by the warmth and cordiality which characterises the relations between the two leaders.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1163459601989165056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Referring to their bilateral discussions in Osaka, PM Modi expressed the hope that the commerce minister of India and the US Trade Representative would meet at an early date to discuss bilateral trade prospects.

"Certain nations are spreading anti-India propaganda," the Indian prime minister told the US president during the phone call, adding that India is committed towards regional peace.

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In the context of the regional situation, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> stated that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by certain leaders in the region was not conducive to peace.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1163459995993702401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi said during the conversation that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by certain leaders in the region was not conducive to peace. The Indian prime minister highlighted the importance of creating an environment "free from terror and violence and eschewing cross-border terrorism without exception."

The Indian prime minister reiterated India’s commitment to cooperate with anyone who followed the path of peace and in fighting poverty, illiteracy and disease.&nbsp;

Recalling that today marked the one hundred years of the independence of Afghanistan, PM Modi&nbsp;reiterated India’s longstanding and unwavering commitment to work for a united,&nbsp;democratic and independent Afghanistan with the US president.

PM Modi stated that he appreciated remaining in regular touch with President Trump.&nbsp;After the phone call, the White House said Trump stressed the need to reduce India-Pakistan tensions.

"The president conveyed the importance of reducing tensions between India and Pakistan and maintaining peace in the region," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said in a statement.

"The two leaders further discussed how they will continue to strengthen United States-India economic ties through increased trade, and they look forward to meeting again soon," the statement added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today had a telephone conversation with US President Trump. The thirty-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters. During the phone call, PM Modi recalled the meeting with Trump in Osaka on the margins of the G-20 summit in June.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today had a telephone conversation with US President Trump. The thirty-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters. During the phone call, PM Modi recalled the meeting with Trump in Osaka on the margins of the G-20 summit in June. Prime Minister @narendramodi had a telephone conversation today with @POTUS H.E. Mr. Donald Trump. Their thirty-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters and was marked by the warmth and cordiality which characterises the relations between the two leaders. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 19, 2019 × Referring to their bilateral discussions in Osaka, PM Modi expressed the hope that the commerce minister of India and the US Trade Representative would meet at an early date to discuss bilateral trade prospects. "Certain nations are spreading anti-India propaganda," the Indian prime minister told the US president during the phone call, adding that India is committed towards regional peace. In the context of the regional situation, PM @narendramodi stated that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by certain leaders in the region was not conducive to peace. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 19, 2019 × PM Modi said during the conversation that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by certain leaders in the region was not conducive to peace. The Indian prime minister highlighted the importance of creating an environment "free from terror and violence and eschewing cross-border terrorism without exception." The Indian prime minister reiterated India’s commitment to cooperate with anyone who followed the path of peace and in fighting poverty, illiteracy and disease. Recalling that today marked the one hundred years of the independence of Afghanistan, PM Modi reiterated India’s longstanding and unwavering commitment to work for a united, democratic and independent Afghanistan with the US president. PM Modi stated that he appreciated remaining in regular touch with President Trump. After the phone call, the White House said Trump stressed the need to reduce India-Pakistan tensions. "The president conveyed the importance of reducing tensions between India and Pakistan and maintaining peace in the region," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said in a statement. "The two leaders further discussed how they will continue to strengthen United States-India economic ties through increased trade, and they look forward to meeting again soon," the statement added.

India committed towards regional peace: PM Modi to President Trump

Now that Articles 370 and 35A have been revoked, certain short and long term initiatives from the central government need to be taken to put the Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) house in order.&nbsp;

Law and order: The first pertains to law and order, which is sensitive at the moment in the 10 districts of the Kashmir Valley. As and when restrictions are relaxed, pro-Pakistani elements will hit the streets. Pakistan is certain to use its contacts in the Valley to stoke the separatist fire and create trouble.

The mainstream political parties of the valley like PDP and NC have all along opposed abrogation of Article 370. When their leaders come out in the open in the next few days, they, too, are expected to pander to their respective political constituencies to arouse sentiments.&nbsp;

The key to the establishment of peace and harmony lies in the steps that the Centre takes to communicate with the people and convince them that Articles 370 and 35 A were impediments to progress.&nbsp;

Security forces will have to show utmost restraint and handle situations with tact. The Abdulla duo and Mehbooba can play a historic role if they abandon their old stand and call upon the people to unite behind India.

Statements emanating from the Pakistani leadership make it clear that they are not going to be silent witnesses to J&amp;K’s full integration into India. The Pakistani PM has already said that there can be another Pulwama. Under the circumstances, our retaliation should be many times bigger, and deterrence stronger, should Pakistan attempt a misadventure.

India needs to take into confidence, marginalised groups within the Kashmir valley whose voices had been throttled by separatist elements as well as political parties. These include the Gujjars, Bakarwals and Pahadis, who will be more than happy to help the Indian cause.

Delimitation: The Union Territory of J&amp;K is going to have its own legislature. Before elections to the UT are called, delimitation process of the electoral constituencies should be initiated. At present, the Jammu division has a larger area and bigger population than the Kashmir division, but in the Assembly, the Kashmir division had more seats, creating electoral imbalance.

After the delimitation process, the Jammu division would have the advantage of numbers in the state Assembly. Till now, politicians from the Kashmir Valley had monopolised the chief minister’s chair.

Tourism: Because of law and order considerations, tourism in the Valley has suffered a huge setback. Even the Amarnath Yatra had to be aborted. Measures have to be devised to strengthen and revive Kashmir’s world-famous tourism. The message that people from the rest of India love Kashmir and its people and visited the state in large numbers — even at the height of militancy — needs to be delivered.&nbsp;

Tour operators, shikara and house boat owners, hoteliers, taxi drivers, restaurateurs and dealers in dry fruits and handicrafts, should all be taken on board.&nbsp;

Apart from the Kashmir Valley, there are beautiful locales in Jammu and Ladakh. In addition, spiritual tourism needs to be promoted. Holy Buddhist and Sikh places of worship should be showcased before the world.

Pandit rehabilitation: One of the most important tasks at hand is to rehabilitate the displaced Kashmiri Pandits at places from where they were expelled en masse in 1990. The second generation of Pandits might not be willing to go back to the state.&nbsp;

Theatrics notwithstanding, separatist elements in the Valley are not going to welcome them either.

The following measures are imperative. First, Kashmiri Hindus still living in camps in Jammu, should be sent back to their homes in the valley. Their security is the responsibility of the administration.

Second, all houses and properties owned by Hindus, but forcibly snatched, must be restored to the original owners.&nbsp;

Third, some areas must be earmarked in the Kashmir valley where safe colonies

for displaced Hindus are created. The government should allot residential quarters to even those, who at present, are not in a position to return.&nbsp;

Development: With the bifurcation of the state in two UTs, plans for both the areas need to be envisaged separately. The Kashmir Valley can be developed as the world’s best tourist destination. The initiative will act as a confidence-building measure among the masses and act as a potent antidote to the Pakistani propaganda.&nbsp;

Environment-friendly industries also need to be set up and many leading Indian industrialists have already expressed their desire to do so. Both the Union territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh are mountainous regions and conservation of their ecology is an important factor.

Countering Pakistani propaganda: The key to restoring normalcy in the Union Territory of J&amp;K in general, and the Kashmir Valley in particular, lies in countering Pakistani propaganda.&nbsp;

Islamabad indulges in a two-pronged strategy: On the one hand, it infuses jihadism among the masses and sends trained terrorists into Kashmir, on the other, it plays the victim card at international forums.&nbsp;

The following steps are needed. The world has to be told that the Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh with the Union of India is as legal and irrevocable as the other Instruments of Accession signed by 560 odd princely states with India.&nbsp;

The separatist movement instigated on behalf of Pakistan in the Kashmir Valley is nothing, but an arm of the global jihadi movement led and propagated by Al Qaeda and IS. The world community has to be warned about it and be told in no uncertain terms that if this jihadist philosophy is not countered effectively, the world would be an unhappy place.

To defeat Pakistani propaganda, representations of Kashmiri Hindu delegations should be taken to world capitals in general and to members of the UN Security Council in particular. &nbsp;Let the world know how India has suffered at the hands of jihadists.

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-six-mandatory-steps-in-jammu-and-kashmir-2782629">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Now that Articles 370 and 35A have been revoked, certain short and long term initiatives from the central government need to be taken to put the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) house in order.

Now that Articles 370 and 35A have been revoked, certain short and long term initiatives from the central government need to be taken to put the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) house in order. Law and order: The first pertains to law and order, which is sensitive at the moment in the 10 districts of the Kashmir Valley. As and when restrictions are relaxed, pro-Pakistani elements will hit the streets. Pakistan is certain to use its contacts in the Valley to stoke the separatist fire and create trouble. The mainstream political parties of the valley like PDP and NC have all along opposed abrogation of Article 370. When their leaders come out in the open in the next few days, they, too, are expected to pander to their respective political constituencies to arouse sentiments. The key to the establishment of peace and harmony lies in the steps that the Centre takes to communicate with the people and convince them that Articles 370 and 35 A were impediments to progress. Security forces will have to show utmost restraint and handle situations with tact. The Abdulla duo and Mehbooba can play a historic role if they abandon their old stand and call upon the people to unite behind India. Statements emanating from the Pakistani leadership make it clear that they are not going to be silent witnesses to J&K’s full integration into India. The Pakistani PM has already said that there can be another Pulwama. Under the circumstances, our retaliation should be many times bigger, and deterrence stronger, should Pakistan attempt a misadventure. India needs to take into confidence, marginalised groups within the Kashmir valley whose voices had been throttled by separatist elements as well as political parties. These include the Gujjars, Bakarwals and Pahadis, who will be more than happy to help the Indian cause. Delimitation: The Union Territory of J&K is going to have its own legislature. Before elections to the UT are called, delimitation process of the electoral constituencies should be initiated. At present, the Jammu division has a larger area and bigger population than the Kashmir division, but in the Assembly, the Kashmir division had more seats, creating electoral imbalance. After the delimitation process, the Jammu division would have the advantage of numbers in the state Assembly. Till now, politicians from the Kashmir Valley had monopolised the chief minister’s chair. Tourism: Because of law and order considerations, tourism in the Valley has suffered a huge setback. Even the Amarnath Yatra had to be aborted. Measures have to be devised to strengthen and revive Kashmir’s world-famous tourism. The message that people from the rest of India love Kashmir and its people and visited the state in large numbers — even at the height of militancy — needs to be delivered. Tour operators, shikara and house boat owners, hoteliers, taxi drivers, restaurateurs and dealers in dry fruits and handicrafts, should all be taken on board. Apart from the Kashmir Valley, there are beautiful locales in Jammu and Ladakh. In addition, spiritual tourism needs to be promoted. Holy Buddhist and Sikh places of worship should be showcased before the world. Pandit rehabilitation: One of the most important tasks at hand is to rehabilitate the displaced Kashmiri Pandits at places from where they were expelled en masse in 1990. The second generation of Pandits might not be willing to go back to the state. Theatrics notwithstanding, separatist elements in the Valley are not going to welcome them either. The following measures are imperative. First, Kashmiri Hindus still living in camps in Jammu, should be sent back to their homes in the valley. Their security is the responsibility of the administration. Second, all houses and properties owned by Hindus, but forcibly snatched, must be restored to the original owners. Third, some areas must be earmarked in the Kashmir valley where safe colonies for displaced Hindus are created. The government should allot residential quarters to even those, who at present, are not in a position to return. Development: With the bifurcation of the state in two UTs, plans for both the areas need to be envisaged separately. The Kashmir Valley can be developed as the world’s best tourist destination. The initiative will act as a confidence-building measure among the masses and act as a potent antidote to the Pakistani propaganda. Environment-friendly industries also need to be set up and many leading Indian industrialists have already expressed their desire to do so. Both the Union territories of J&K and Ladakh are mountainous regions and conservation of their ecology is an important factor. Countering Pakistani propaganda: The key to restoring normalcy in the Union Territory of J&K in general, and the Kashmir Valley in particular, lies in countering Pakistani propaganda. Islamabad indulges in a two-pronged strategy: On the one hand, it infuses jihadism among the masses and sends trained terrorists into Kashmir, on the other, it plays the victim card at international forums. The following steps are needed. The world has to be told that the Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh with the Union of India is as legal and irrevocable as the other Instruments of Accession signed by 560 odd princely states with India. The separatist movement instigated on behalf of Pakistan in the Kashmir Valley is nothing, but an arm of the global jihadi movement led and propagated by Al Qaeda and IS. The world community has to be warned about it and be told in no uncertain terms that if this jihadist philosophy is not countered effectively, the world would be an unhappy place. To defeat Pakistani propaganda, representations of Kashmiri Hindu delegations should be taken to world capitals in general and to members of the UN Security Council in particular. Let the world know how India has suffered at the hands of jihadists. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Beyond Article 370, India now has to plan Jammu and Kashmir's thoroughgoing integration into the Union

Government offices and schools reopened in India's Jammu and Kashmir with a mixed response on Monday (August 19), after two weeks of lockdown. Several areas of Jammu and Kashmir were facing a curfew-like situation after the administration imposed restrictions to curb violence in the valley, in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's decision to abrogate Article 370 and 35A, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Kashmir schools, offices reopen amid tight security

As schools reopened in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/normalcy-back-to-kashmir-schools-reopen-amid-tight-security-244007">Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K)</a> after 15 days, Syed Sehrish Asgar, director of information said there was no major law and order situation reported across the Valley with life returning to normal.

"The public, in general, has been cooperative," Asgar said, adding," the government urges people not to believe in any kind of rumour-mongering by the vested interests."

J&amp;K governor Satya Pal Malik had said last week that restrictions in the Valley would be eased in a phased manner.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-kashmir-is-slowly-but-surely-marching-towards-normalcy-243523/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

On Saturday, the state government had restored 2G mobile internet services in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi districts. Landline services also resumed in 17 telephone exchanges in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Reports said that over fifty thousand landline phones were made operational in J&amp;K after a general clampdown was put into effect&nbsp;in the wake of the scrapping of Article 370 by the government, a move which was ratified by an act of Parliament.

Rohit Kansal, Principal secretary to Jammu and Kashmir had said earlier that no untoward incident had taken place after restictions were partly lifted.

As schools reopened in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) after 15 days, Syed Sehrish Asgar, director of information said there was no major law and order situation reported across the Valley with life returning to normal.

As schools reopened in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) after 15 days, Syed Sehrish Asgar, director of information said there was no major law and order situation reported across the Valley with life returning to normal. "The public, in general, has been cooperative," Asgar said, adding," the government urges people not to believe in any kind of rumour-mongering by the vested interests." J&K governor Satya Pal Malik had said last week that restrictions in the Valley would be eased in a phased manner. On Saturday, the state government had restored 2G mobile internet services in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi districts. Landline services also resumed in 17 telephone exchanges in the Kashmir Valley. Reports said that over fifty thousand landline phones were made operational in J&K after a general clampdown was put into effect in the wake of the scrapping of Article 370 by the government, a move which was ratified by an act of Parliament. Rohit Kansal, Principal secretary to Jammu and Kashmir had said earlier that no untoward incident had taken place after restictions were partly lifted.

Life returning to normal in Kashmir Valley: J&K government

Around 60 prominent national, state and district level leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) along with thousands of party workers on Sunday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here in presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/step-in-for-relief-work-in-flood-rain-hit-areas-jp-nadda-urges-bjp-workers-243943">BJP working president JP Nadda</a>.

"It is a very, very good sign as far as the Telangana unit is concerned, as well as this positive sign which flows to Andhra Pradesh also," said Lanka Dinakar, who himself shifted from TDP to BJP in June earlier this year.

"Thousands of TDP workers have joined the BJP. Besides them, around 60 prominent national, state and district level leaders have joined the BJP in the presence of JP Nadda. Many are coming forward to join our party after passage of Triple Talaq Bill and abrogation of Article 370," Dinakar added.

Speaking at the event, Nadda said that the BJP will elect its national president before December 31.

"In September, elections will be held on 8 lakh booths. In October, Mandal elections will be held, and in November Zila elections will be held. By December 15 elections in all states will be over. Before December 31, the elections for national president of BJP will be completed," Nadda said.

Around 60 prominent national, state and district level leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) along with thousands of party workers on Sunday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here in presence of BJP working president JP Nadda.

Around 60 prominent national, state and district level leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) along with thousands of party workers on Sunday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here in presence of BJP working president JP Nadda. "It is a very, very good sign as far as the Telangana unit is concerned, as well as this positive sign which flows to Andhra Pradesh also," said Lanka Dinakar, who himself shifted from TDP to BJP in June earlier this year. "Thousands of TDP workers have joined the BJP. Besides them, around 60 prominent national, state and district level leaders have joined the BJP in the presence of JP Nadda. Many are coming forward to join our party after passage of Triple Talaq Bill and abrogation of Article 370," Dinakar added. Speaking at the event, Nadda said that the BJP will elect its national president before December 31. "In September, elections will be held on 8 lakh booths. In October, Mandal elections will be held, and in November Zila elections will be held. By December 15 elections in all states will be over. Before December 31, the elections for national president of BJP will be completed," Nadda said.

Telangana: Around 60 Telugu Desam Party leaders join Bharatiya Janata Party

Former Haryana chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda has announced a committee&nbsp;to decide&nbsp;the political future of his faction.

There were speculations that Hooda may announce his own political outfit or join another party, however, he opted for the 25-member panel to decide the future course of action for him.

"A committee will be formed in a day or two. Convenor will call a meeting after the committee is formed. I will do what the committee will say, if it asks me to leave politics, I will leave politics as well," said Hooda at 'Maha Parivartan Rally' in Rohtak on Sunday.

The committee will include 13 sitting MLAs and 12 other important state leaders. He is likely to announce the committee's decision within a week.

Hooda's loyalists have been demanding that the former chief minister be made the Haryana party chief in place of Ashok Tanwar.

Bhupinder Singh Hooda also slammed the Congress for its stand on the revocation of Article 370, saying the party has lost its way.

He said he belongs to the family of freedom fighters and for them national interests are supreme.

Asking the people of Haryana to oust&nbsp;Manohar Lal Khattar government, he announced various sops like - increasing old-age pension, giving free power up to 300 units for BPL families and making wheat and rice available at Rs 2 per kg for such families.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, Khattar also kicked off Jan Ashirwad Yatra on Sunday. He will reach out to people of the state during the 22-day journey till September 8. Assembly elections will be held in Haryana later this year.

(With the inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former Haryana chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda has announced a committee to decide the political future of his faction. There were speculations that Hooda may announce his own political outfit or join another party, however, he opted for the 25-member panel to decide the future course of action for him.

Former Haryana chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda has announced a committee to decide the political future of his faction. There were speculations that Hooda may announce his own political outfit or join another party, however, he opted for the 25-member panel to decide the future course of action for him. "A committee will be formed in a day or two. Convenor will call a meeting after the committee is formed. I will do what the committee will say, if it asks me to leave politics, I will leave politics as well," said Hooda at 'Maha Parivartan Rally' in Rohtak on Sunday. The committee will include 13 sitting MLAs and 12 other important state leaders. He is likely to announce the committee's decision within a week. Hooda's loyalists have been demanding that the former chief minister be made the Haryana party chief in place of Ashok Tanwar. Bhupinder Singh Hooda also slammed the Congress for its stand on the revocation of Article 370, saying the party has lost its way. He said he belongs to the family of freedom fighters and for them national interests are supreme. Asking the people of Haryana to oust Manohar Lal Khattar government, he announced various sops like - increasing old-age pension, giving free power up to 300 units for BPL families and making wheat and rice available at Rs 2 per kg for such families. Meanwhile, Khattar also kicked off Jan Ashirwad Yatra on Sunday. He will reach out to people of the state during the 22-day journey till September 8. Assembly elections will be held in Haryana later this year. (With the inputs from agencies)

Bhupinder Singh Hooda slams Congress, forms committee to decide his political future

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has said that after the revocation of Article 370 in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/normalcy-back-to-kashmir-schools-reopen-amid-tight-security-244007">Jammu and Kashmir</a>, India should now focus on freeing Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) from the 'illegal occupation' of Pakistan and work towards making it an integral part of the country.

As the parliament has unanimously agreed, let us free Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and merge it with India. Let us pray to the almighty that we get the chance to see this in our lifetime," he said on Sunday.

Singh also launched an indirect attack on Congress, saying that the preventive detention of former chief ministers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammua-and-kashmir-omar-abdullah-and-mehbooba-mufti-fight-it-out-at-srinagars-hari-niwas-palace-242437">Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti </a>was 'unnecessarily being made a big issue'. Defending the government's move, he said&nbsp;that the Centre&nbsp;has taken such&nbsp;steps to maintain peace in the valley.

Singh further said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">Article 370 </a>was a 'miscarriage of history' which gave rise to discrimination and its abrogation will restore jamhuriyat (democracy) in the Union Territory, giving equal opportunity to everyone.

Earlier, Defence Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-talks-with-pakistan-only-on-pok-rajnath-singh-243890">Rajnath Singh</a> on Sunday said that if talks were held between India and Pakistan, they would only be on PoK.

"Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said. 
 
WATCH:

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He also slammed Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370.

The Defence Minister further&nbsp;said that the move has sent jitters to Pakistan, and therefore, the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has said that after the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, India should now focus on freeing Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) from the 'illegal occupation' of Pakistan and work towards making it an integral part of the country.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has said that after the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, India should now focus on freeing Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) from the 'illegal occupation' of Pakistan and work towards making it an integral part of the country. As the parliament has unanimously agreed, let us free Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and merge it with India. Let us pray to the almighty that we get the chance to see this in our lifetime," he said on Sunday. Singh also launched an indirect attack on Congress, saying that the preventive detention of former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti was 'unnecessarily being made a big issue'. Defending the government's move, he said that the Centre has taken such steps to maintain peace in the valley. Singh further said that Article 370 was a 'miscarriage of history' which gave rise to discrimination and its abrogation will restore jamhuriyat (democracy) in the Union Territory, giving equal opportunity to everyone. Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that if talks were held between India and Pakistan, they would only be on PoK. "Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said. WATCH: × He also slammed Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370. The Defence Minister further said that the move has sent jitters to Pakistan, and therefore, the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself. (With inputs from agencies)

We should now focus on making PoK integral part of India, says Union Minister Jitendra Singh

Schools in the Jammu and Kashmir valley have re-opened today after 15 days of the&nbsp;scrapping of the state's special status under Article 370.

Though the teaching and non-teaching staff were present on the first day of the school reopening. The schools, however, wore a deserted look as not many students turned up.&nbsp;

The government has made all necessary arrangements to ensure the safety of the students.

As announced by governor Satya Pal Malik, restrictions in the valley are being eased in a phased manner.

On Sunday, the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations as against 35 police stations on Saturday. The duration in the relaxation was also increased from six hours to eight hours.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the state government restored 2G mobile internet services in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi districts. Landline services also resumed in 17 telephone exchanges in the Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

All government offices are also expected to start functioning normally from today.

As a result of the restoration of communication, locals resumed their work and businesses.

Restrictions were imposed on August 5, when Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 was revoked and the state bifurcated into two Union Territories.

(With inputs from agencies)

Schools in the Jammu and Kashmir valley have re-opened today after 15 days of the scrapping of the state's special status under Article 370. Though the teaching and non-teaching staff were present on the first day of the school reopening.

Schools in the Jammu and Kashmir valley have re-opened today after 15 days of the scrapping of the state's special status under Article 370. Though the teaching and non-teaching staff were present on the first day of the school reopening. The schools, however, wore a deserted look as not many students turned up. The government has made all necessary arrangements to ensure the safety of the students. As announced by governor Satya Pal Malik, restrictions in the valley are being eased in a phased manner. On Sunday, the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations as against 35 police stations on Saturday. The duration in the relaxation was also increased from six hours to eight hours. On Saturday, the state government restored 2G mobile internet services in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi districts. Landline services also resumed in 17 telephone exchanges in the Kashmir valley. All government offices are also expected to start functioning normally from today. As a result of the restoration of communication, locals resumed their work and businesses. Restrictions were imposed on August 5, when Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 was revoked and the state bifurcated into two Union Territories. (With inputs from agencies)

Kashmir back to normal: Schools reopen amid tight security

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-injured-cases-of-hooliganism-reported-jammu-and-kashmir-principal-secretary-243922">190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar</a>, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley.

"We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Rohit Kansal said while addressing a press conference here.

He said the process of easing of prohibitory orders and providing relaxations continued on Sunday as well.

Kansal said the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations on Sunday as against 35 police stations on Saturday, and the duration in the relaxation was increased from six hours to eight hours.

In a statement, Kansal was quoted as saying that no untoward incident was reported from the areas where relaxation was provided.

According to the statement, traffic including public transport plied and shopkeepers opened their businesses.

Kansal said that it was the endeavour of the government to restore all the landlines to their full functionality as soon as possible.

"BSNL officers and technicians are working continuously to restore the working of exchanges across Kashmir valley," he said. "The government will attempt to restore infrastructural and developmental works as the overall situation further improves," added Kansal.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over 190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over 190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley. "We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Rohit Kansal said while addressing a press conference here. He said the process of easing of prohibitory orders and providing relaxations continued on Sunday as well. Kansal said the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations on Sunday as against 35 police stations on Saturday, and the duration in the relaxation was increased from six hours to eight hours. In a statement, Kansal was quoted as saying that no untoward incident was reported from the areas where relaxation was provided. According to the statement, traffic including public transport plied and shopkeepers opened their businesses. Kansal said that it was the endeavour of the government to restore all the landlines to their full functionality as soon as possible. "BSNL officers and technicians are working continuously to restore the working of exchanges across Kashmir valley," he said. "The government will attempt to restore infrastructural and developmental works as the overall situation further improves," added Kansal.

Over 190 primary schools will open on Monday in Srinagar: Principal Secretary Kansal

Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-limps-back-to-normalcy-internet-telephone-services-restored-schools-to-reopen-tomorrow-243742">Jammu and Kashmir</a>, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies.

Addressing a briefing, Kansal said that two minor injuries were reported in the region.

"We have received reports of hooligans and mischievous elements forcing shopkeepers in certain areas to keep their establishments shut. This has been taken note of by law enforcing agencies. Appropriate action will be taken," he said.

He opined that no report of any untoward incident came to fore from the areas where relaxation was provided.

"In areas where relaxation was provided, we have no report of any untoward incident. There are, however, very minor reports of 2-3 disturbances in areas where relaxations were not provided. These were dealt with by local security agencies," Kansal said.

He continued, "As of now, we have reports of two injuries; both are reported to be minor injuries. We will endeavour that landline communication is restored to its full functionality as soon as possible, subject to the physical limitation that BSNL is facing."

"We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," he added.

Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.

Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies.

Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies. Addressing a briefing, Kansal said that two minor injuries were reported in the region. "We have received reports of hooligans and mischievous elements forcing shopkeepers in certain areas to keep their establishments shut. This has been taken note of by law enforcing agencies. Appropriate action will be taken," he said. He opined that no report of any untoward incident came to fore from the areas where relaxation was provided. "In areas where relaxation was provided, we have no report of any untoward incident. There are, however, very minor reports of 2-3 disturbances in areas where relaxations were not provided. These were dealt with by local security agencies," Kansal said. He continued, "As of now, we have reports of two injuries; both are reported to be minor injuries. We will endeavour that landline communication is restored to its full functionality as soon as possible, subject to the physical limitation that BSNL is facing." "We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," he added. Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region. Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.

2 injured, cases of hooliganism reported: Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary

Jammu and Kashmir is on the path to normalcy as the administration has eased communication restrictions and is making sure that all government offices and schools are functional by next week.

The communication is back on the grid. The back lanes of Srinagar city are seeing movement.

Nearly 12 days after curbs were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir following the scrapping of article 370.

The valley is gradually returning to normalcy.

Broadband services have been restored in some areas of uptown Srinagar.

After 13 days, more than fifty thousand landline phones have been made operational in Jammu and Kashmir.

17 of the 100 telephone exchanges in the valley are now working.

Principal secretary to Jammu and Kashmir — Rohit Kansal has been sharing details about the restoration of telecommunication services.

Kansal informed that no untoward incident had been reported.

While schools and colleges in the Kashmir valley will be re-opening on Monday, public transport services are also being restored.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir is on the path to normalcy as the administration has eased communication restrictions and is making sure that all government offices and schools are functional by next week.

Jammu and Kashmir is on the path to normalcy as the administration has eased communication restrictions and is making sure that all government offices and schools are functional by next week. The communication is back on the grid. The back lanes of Srinagar city are seeing movement. Nearly 12 days after curbs were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir following the scrapping of article 370. The valley is gradually returning to normalcy. Broadband services have been restored in some areas of uptown Srinagar. After 13 days, more than fifty thousand landline phones have been made operational in Jammu and Kashmir. 17 of the 100 telephone exchanges in the valley are now working. Principal secretary to Jammu and Kashmir — Rohit Kansal has been sharing details about the restoration of telecommunication services. Kansal informed that no untoward incident had been reported. While schools and colleges in the Kashmir valley will be re-opening on Monday, public transport services are also being restored. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir limps back to normalcy: Internet, telephone services restored, schools to reopen tomorrow

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday said that people are happy with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">abrogation of Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir and are coming forward to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reddy met people in different areas of Hyderabad and said, "BJP party's leadership has given me the responsibility of MoS Home Affairs. I am meeting people in different areas. People are really happy after the abrogation of Article 370. They are coming forward to support the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi."

Earlier on Saturday, Reddy said that Pakistan wants Jammu and Kashmir to be vulnerable, but we are taking all precautionary measures.

"The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is normal and it is improving day-by-day as we have taken all the precautionary measures in the region. We get provocative statements from Pakistan and they want the situation in the state to be vulnerable. We are taking all the precautionary measures and Jammu and Kashmir is under our surveillance," Reddy said.

He added, "All the educational institutions will be opened on Monday and section 144 has been removed from Jammu and Kashmir except some districts. It will be normal within a week."

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday said that people are happy with the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and are coming forward to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday said that people are happy with the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and are coming forward to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Reddy met people in different areas of Hyderabad and said, "BJP party's leadership has given me the responsibility of MoS Home Affairs. I am meeting people in different areas. People are really happy after the abrogation of Article 370. They are coming forward to support the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi." Earlier on Saturday, Reddy said that Pakistan wants Jammu and Kashmir to be vulnerable, but we are taking all precautionary measures. "The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is normal and it is improving day-by-day as we have taken all the precautionary measures in the region. We get provocative statements from Pakistan and they want the situation in the state to be vulnerable. We are taking all the precautionary measures and Jammu and Kashmir is under our surveillance," Reddy said. He added, "All the educational institutions will be opened on Monday and section 144 has been removed from Jammu and Kashmir except some districts. It will be normal within a week."

People happy with abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir: G Kishan Reddy

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday.

"Since morning, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-section-144-relaxed-in-kishtwar-for-the-day-243587">relaxations on restrictions</a> have been provided in areas under 35 police stations across the length and breadth of the valley," Kansal said.

Kansal further added that there had been no untoward incidents reported from the region and the situation was slowly turning back to normal in the villages.

"There has been no untoward incident reported so far. Public transport has started plying and we are getting encouraging reports of normal movement from a lot of rural areas," he added.

Earlier today, restrictions under Section 144 were relaxed in Kishtwar too for the entire day.

Kansal expressed the hope that by Sunday the situation will be such that telephone services could once again be restored in almost all the areas of the Kashmir valley barring a few sensitive ones.

"We hope that by tomorrow evening, barring a few vulnerable areas, all telephone exchanges in Kashmir valley shall be made functional. Landlines and mobiles are already functional in Jammu. We have also opened up mobile internet with some functionality in at least 5 districts in Jammu," Kansal added.

Kansal said that by the end of Saturday, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional.

"As we speak, the authorities are on the job of releasing further telephone connections and we hope by the end of today, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional," he said while addressing a press conference.

"In the morning, I had clarified that we are beginning with primary schools largely located within the locality. We will move on to other schools as well but make a beginning with primary schools," he added.

Kansal said the relaxations provided resulted in people coming out, traffic plying and men and material being moved.

"We expect that areas and regions in which were relaxed today will also see relaxations tomorrow. Local authorities will asses further the fresh areas which can be considered for relaxation for prohibitory orders," he said.

He also said that there have been six-seven disturbances largely in the area where relaxations was not given.

"While there have been no reported incidents in areas where relaxations were given, there have been six-seven incidents of disturbances largely in the area in which relaxations were not given. We also have reports of about 8 injuries but all the injured are reported to be stable," he said.

Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday.

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday. "Since morning, relaxations on restrictions have been provided in areas under 35 police stations across the length and breadth of the valley," Kansal said. Kansal further added that there had been no untoward incidents reported from the region and the situation was slowly turning back to normal in the villages. "There has been no untoward incident reported so far. Public transport has started plying and we are getting encouraging reports of normal movement from a lot of rural areas," he added. Earlier today, restrictions under Section 144 were relaxed in Kishtwar too for the entire day. Kansal expressed the hope that by Sunday the situation will be such that telephone services could once again be restored in almost all the areas of the Kashmir valley barring a few sensitive ones. "We hope that by tomorrow evening, barring a few vulnerable areas, all telephone exchanges in Kashmir valley shall be made functional. Landlines and mobiles are already functional in Jammu. We have also opened up mobile internet with some functionality in at least 5 districts in Jammu," Kansal added. Kansal said that by the end of Saturday, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional. "As we speak, the authorities are on the job of releasing further telephone connections and we hope by the end of today, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional," he said while addressing a press conference. "In the morning, I had clarified that we are beginning with primary schools largely located within the locality. We will move on to other schools as well but make a beginning with primary schools," he added. Kansal said the relaxations provided resulted in people coming out, traffic plying and men and material being moved. "We expect that areas and regions in which were relaxed today will also see relaxations tomorrow. Local authorities will asses further the fresh areas which can be considered for relaxation for prohibitory orders," he said. He also said that there have been six-seven disturbances largely in the area where relaxations was not given. "While there have been no reported incidents in areas where relaxations were given, there have been six-seven incidents of disturbances largely in the area in which relaxations were not given. We also have reports of about 8 injuries but all the injured are reported to be stable," he said. Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.

Relaxations in areas under 35 police stations in Valley: Jammu and Kashmir principal secretary

A Pakistani post opposite the Rajouri sector in Jammu Kashmir was hit inaction by the Indian Army on Saturday.

Army sources said the exchange of fire between the two sides is still on after Pakistan violated the ceasefire.

One Indian Army soldier lost his life this morning in Pakistani firing in Rajouri.

The deceased soldier was identified as Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa.

Indian Army during the intervening night of Thursday-Friday had foiled multiple infiltration attempts by terrorists backed by the Pakistani Army.

Army sources had told ANI on Friday that to push terrorists from multiple points inside Indian territory, Pakistan has activated a major communication hub in the Kali Ghati area near Neelam Valley in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) to facilitate terrorists trying to infiltrate.

The communication hub with a range of 50-60 kilometres, allows terrorists to communicate with their guides even across the LoC.

Indian Army positions on the Line of Control have been alerted to prevent any misadventure by Pakistan Army.

On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan was trying to push in infiltrators in the last few days.

The developments come in the wake of the Central government's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">decision to scrap Article 370</a> which gave special status to Jammu Kashmir.

A Pakistani post opposite the Rajouri sector in Jammu Kashmir was hit inaction by the Indian Army on Saturday. Army sources said the exchange of fire between the two sides is still on after Pakistan violated the ceasefire.

A Pakistani post opposite the Rajouri sector in Jammu Kashmir was hit inaction by the Indian Army on Saturday. Army sources said the exchange of fire between the two sides is still on after Pakistan violated the ceasefire. One Indian Army soldier lost his life this morning in Pakistani firing in Rajouri. The deceased soldier was identified as Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa. Indian Army during the intervening night of Thursday-Friday had foiled multiple infiltration attempts by terrorists backed by the Pakistani Army. Army sources had told ANI on Friday that to push terrorists from multiple points inside Indian territory, Pakistan has activated a major communication hub in the Kali Ghati area near Neelam Valley in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) to facilitate terrorists trying to infiltrate. The communication hub with a range of 50-60 kilometres, allows terrorists to communicate with their guides even across the LoC. Indian Army positions on the Line of Control have been alerted to prevent any misadventure by Pakistan Army. On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan was trying to push in infiltrators in the last few days. The developments come in the wake of the Central government's decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir: Indian Army hits Pakistan post opposite Rajouri sector

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday said that India is always alert to its security and if any act is committed by terrorists against the revocation of Article 370, then it will give a befitting reply.

He was replying to media's question about Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan's statement that Pakistan has 'full knowledge'&nbsp;that India is planning a bigger operation than Balakot in PoK.

The minister refused to comment on Khan's statement but said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India is always alert to its security and if any action is taken by terrorists then India will give befitting reply.

On being asked about Article 370, Prasad said, "The decision on Article 370 was taken in the national interest and in the interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir."

"Due to Article 370, there was no Prevention of Corruption Bill, no law against Child Marriage and no law against prevention of manual scavenging applicable in the state," Prasad said.

On being asked about Kashmir being discussed at United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Prasad said, "MEA is working on this issue".&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday said that India is always alert to its security and if any act is committed by terrorists against the revocation of Article 370, then it will give a befitting reply.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday said that India is always alert to its security and if any act is committed by terrorists against the revocation of Article 370, then it will give a befitting reply. He was replying to media's question about Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan's statement that Pakistan has 'full knowledge' that India is planning a bigger operation than Balakot in PoK. The minister refused to comment on Khan's statement but said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India is always alert to its security and if any action is taken by terrorists then India will give befitting reply. On being asked about Article 370, Prasad said, "The decision on Article 370 was taken in the national interest and in the interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir." "Due to Article 370, there was no Prevention of Corruption Bill, no law against Child Marriage and no law against prevention of manual scavenging applicable in the state," Prasad said. On being asked about Kashmir being discussed at United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Prasad said, "MEA is working on this issue".

India will give befitting reply if any action taken by terrorists on Article 370: Prasad

In view of the current security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indigo-operator-interglobe-aviation-profit-surges-on-jet-air-collapse-237139">IndiGo</a> on Friday extended full fee waiver on cancellation and rescheduling for all flights to and from Srinagar till August 23.&nbsp;

"In view of the current security situation in Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), we have extended a full fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling for all flights to/from Srinagar till 23 August 2019," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fight-between-indigo-promoters-becomes-public-234831">IndiGO </a>tweeted on its official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

Security was heightened in the region after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it.&nbsp;

Following this, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on August 3 had asked Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the Valley.

Soon after DGCA`s directions, airlines had made announcements to give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to and from Srinagar.

IndiGo had announced a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all flights to and from Srinagar till August 9.&nbsp;

"In view of the current security situation in Srinagar and the Government advisory regarding it, we are providing a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all flights to/from Srinagar till Aug 09, 2019," IndiGo had tweeted. 
&nbsp;

In view of the current security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, IndiGo on Friday extended full fee waiver on cancellation and rescheduling for all flights to and from Srinagar till August 23.

In view of the current security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, IndiGo on Friday extended full fee waiver on cancellation and rescheduling for all flights to and from Srinagar till August 23. "In view of the current security situation in Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), we have extended a full fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling for all flights to/from Srinagar till 23 August 2019," IndiGO tweeted on its official Twitter handle. Security was heightened in the region after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it. Following this, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on August 3 had asked Indian airlines to be prepared to operate extra flights to and from Srinagar to fly out Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the Valley. Soon after DGCA`s directions, airlines had made announcements to give a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all its flights to and from Srinagar. IndiGo had announced a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all flights to and from Srinagar till August 9. "In view of the current security situation in Srinagar and the Government advisory regarding it, we are providing a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all flights to/from Srinagar till Aug 09, 2019," IndiGo had tweeted.

IndiGo extends full fee waiver on flight cancellation to, from Srinagar till August 23

India's top court has adjourned the hearing of petitions challening Article 370 that revoked special status to ertswhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu &amp; Kashmir, and Ladakh.

The special Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was hearing PILs that sought lifting of media and communication ban in the valley.&nbsp;

The pleas will now be listed next week for hearing.&nbsp;

Lawyer ML Sharma was at the receiving end of CJI's for filing frivolous PILs. Gogoi told Sharma, "What kind of petition is this? I tried to read the petition for half an hour and could not understand it. We should dismiss this, but we don't want to because it will have an effect on other petitions".&nbsp;

While a lawyer suggested the CJI to impose heavy cost on serial PIL man Sharma, Gogoi refused to fine him looking at his deteriorating health conditions.&nbsp;

Sharma was seen in court wearing black glasses due to an injury in his right eye and head covered in a handkerchief.

Six similar petitions have been filed related to the new developing changes in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, another petition that challenges complete lockdown of the Jammu and Kashmir has been listed for hearing next week. But Gogoi was fuming with anger at the visible defects in the petitions.&nbsp;

"Four other petitions on Jammu and Kashmir also have defects which are yet to be cured. We accommodate you in between Ayodhya hearing and this is what we get in return", remarked the CJI.

Meanwhile, additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta informed the court that restrictions are being lifted in the valley. "Please trust your security agencies. We are reviewing the situation every day. We are working with the best interest in mind", he said.&nbsp;

India's supreme court was hearing a plea that challenged the presidential order which had paved the way for the introduction of the Jammu &amp; Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 thereby bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu &amp; Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Another petition was filed by Kashmir Times journalist seeking lifting of restrictions on communication services and movement in Jammu and Kashmir. The plea stated that the continuing restrictions were "excessive, disproportionate and gross abuse of state power".

India's top court has adjourned the hearing of petitions challening Article 370 that revoked special status to ertswhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

India's top court has adjourned the hearing of petitions challening Article 370 that revoked special status to ertswhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. The special Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was hearing PILs that sought lifting of media and communication ban in the valley. The pleas will now be listed next week for hearing. Lawyer ML Sharma was at the receiving end of CJI's for filing frivolous PILs. Gogoi told Sharma, "What kind of petition is this? I tried to read the petition for half an hour and could not understand it. We should dismiss this, but we don't want to because it will have an effect on other petitions". While a lawyer suggested the CJI to impose heavy cost on serial PIL man Sharma, Gogoi refused to fine him looking at his deteriorating health conditions. Sharma was seen in court wearing black glasses due to an injury in his right eye and head covered in a handkerchief. Six similar petitions have been filed related to the new developing changes in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, another petition that challenges complete lockdown of the Jammu and Kashmir has been listed for hearing next week. But Gogoi was fuming with anger at the visible defects in the petitions. "Four other petitions on Jammu and Kashmir also have defects which are yet to be cured. We accommodate you in between Ayodhya hearing and this is what we get in return", remarked the CJI. Meanwhile, additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta informed the court that restrictions are being lifted in the valley. "Please trust your security agencies. We are reviewing the situation every day. We are working with the best interest in mind", he said. India's supreme court was hearing a plea that challenged the presidential order which had paved the way for the introduction of the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 thereby bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Another petition was filed by Kashmir Times journalist seeking lifting of restrictions on communication services and movement in Jammu and Kashmir. The plea stated that the continuing restrictions were "excessive, disproportionate and gross abuse of state power".

Chief Justice of India Gogoi stops short of fining petitioner challenging Article 370, adjourns hearing 

Normalcy returns in J&K, phone lines to resume from tomorrow. Watch video to know more.

Normalcy returns in J&K, phone lines to resume from tomorrow

China and Pakistan on Friday failed in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-closed-door-meet-russia-supports-india-says-no-unsc-role-in-jammu-and-kashmir-issue-243493">attempt to censure India at UN Security Council</a> as Pakistan's plea against India's Kashmir move found no support.

In his address to media, shortly after the UNSC closed-door consultation ended, India's permanent representative to UN&nbsp;Syed Akbaruddin said the government's decision on Kashmir has "no external ramifications" maintaining that the issue is an internal matter.

"The recent decisions taken by the Government of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted, social-economic development is enhanced for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," Akbaruddin said.

"Our national position was and remains that matter related to #Article370 of the Indian Constitution is entirely an internal matter of India," he added.&nbsp;

In his veiled attack on Pakistan, Akbaruddin said that there were attempts "to project an alarmist approach to the situation which is far from the ground realities".&nbsp;

The UN envoy maintained that the Indian government is "committed to gradually <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preventive-restrictions-to-rollback-in-phased-manner-says-jk-chief-secretary-schools-offices-open-from-monday-243363">removing all restrictions" in Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

"India remains committed to ensure that the situation there (J&amp;K) remains calm and peaceful," he said.&nbsp;

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Syed Akbaruddin: These have no external ramifications, the recent decisions taken by the Govt of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted, social economic development is enhance for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh <a href="https://t.co/RGKvLBJrDc">https://t.co/RGKvLBJrDc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162397591352565762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Behind closed-door, UNSC members met on Friday for consultations to deliberate on Pakistan's letter on Kashmir.

Pakistan and India, both, were not present for the consultation as procedural.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan's efforts to rake up Kashmir issue fall flat at UNSC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-news-pakistans-efforts-to-rake-up-kashmir-issue-fall-flat-at-unsc-243516/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During the consultations, Russia came out in support of India and stated that the Modi-government has taken the Kashmir decision as it is an internal matter.

"#Russia continues to consistently promote normalisation of #India - #Pakistan ties. We hope that existing divergences around #Kashmir will be settled bilaterally by political and diplomatic means only," Russian Envoy to UN, Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted out.&nbsp;

Chinese ambassador to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, said on Friday that members of the Security Council generally feel India and Pakistan should both refrain from unilateral action over Kashmir, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Zhang told reporters that the situation in Kashmir is "already very tense and very dangerous."

France and the US also backed India at the consultation.

China and Pakistan on Friday failed in their attempt to censure India at UN Security Council as Pakistan's plea against India's Kashmir move found no support. In his address to media, shortly after the UNSC closed-door consultation ended, India's permanent representative to UN Syed Akbaruddin said the government's decision on Kashmir has "no external ramifications" maintaining that the issue is an internal matter.

China and Pakistan on Friday failed in their attempt to censure India at UN Security Council as Pakistan's plea against India's Kashmir move found no support. In his address to media, shortly after the UNSC closed-door consultation ended, India's permanent representative to UN Syed Akbaruddin said the government's decision on Kashmir has "no external ramifications" maintaining that the issue is an internal matter. "The recent decisions taken by the Government of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted, social-economic development is enhanced for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," Akbaruddin said. "Our national position was and remains that matter related to #Article370 of the Indian Constitution is entirely an internal matter of India," he added. In his veiled attack on Pakistan, Akbaruddin said that there were attempts "to project an alarmist approach to the situation which is far from the ground realities". The UN envoy maintained that the Indian government is "committed to gradually removing all restrictions" in Jammu and Kashmir. "India remains committed to ensure that the situation there (J&K) remains calm and peaceful," he said. Syed Akbaruddin: These have no external ramifications, the recent decisions taken by the Govt of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted, social economic development is enhance for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh https://t.co/RGKvLBJrDc — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × Behind closed-door, UNSC members met on Friday for consultations to deliberate on Pakistan's letter on Kashmir. Pakistan and India, both, were not present for the consultation as procedural. Watch: Pakistan's efforts to rake up Kashmir issue fall flat at UNSC During the consultations, Russia came out in support of India and stated that the Modi-government has taken the Kashmir decision as it is an internal matter. "#Russia continues to consistently promote normalisation of #India - #Pakistan ties. We hope that existing divergences around #Kashmir will be settled bilaterally by political and diplomatic means only," Russian Envoy to UN, Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted out. Chinese ambassador to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, said on Friday that members of the Security Council generally feel India and Pakistan should both refrain from unilateral action over Kashmir, news agency Reuters reported. Zhang told reporters that the situation in Kashmir is "already very tense and very dangerous." France and the US also backed India at the consultation.

Matter related to Article 370 entirely internal issue: India reiterates after UNSC meet on Kashmir concludes

Bollywood actor Kabir Bedi speaks to WION over Jammu & Kashmir issue. Watch this video to know more.

Fineprint: Bollywood actor Kabir Bedi speaks to WION over J&K issue

A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces'&nbsp;bases in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preventive-restrictions-to-rollback-in-phased-manner-says-jk-chief-secretary-schools-offices-open-from-monday-243363">Jammu and Kashmir</a> against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks.

Official sources told ANI on Friday that the high alert has been sounded in view of Pakistan's attempts to create disturbances in the Valley.

This comes after sources in the Indian Army said Pakistan has upscaled ceasefire violations in terms of area and weapon in the last few days.

On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators in the past few days and that such attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations.

On August 5, the Central government had announced its decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ever since the government announced its move on Article 370, the top brass of the Army has frequently undertaken visits to the Valley to review the security situation.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has also been camping in the Valley to review the situation on ground zero.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces' bases in Jammu and Kashmir against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks.

A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces' bases in Jammu and Kashmir against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks. Official sources told ANI on Friday that the high alert has been sounded in view of Pakistan's attempts to create disturbances in the Valley. This comes after sources in the Indian Army said Pakistan has upscaled ceasefire violations in terms of area and weapon in the last few days. On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators in the past few days and that such attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations. On August 5, the Central government had announced its decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Ever since the government announced its move on Article 370, the top brass of the Army has frequently undertaken visits to the Valley to review the security situation. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has also been camping in the Valley to review the situation on ground zero.

High alert sounded at security bases in Jammu and Kashmir

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-in-jammu-and-kashmir-authorities-to-review-restrictions-243346">Jammu and Kashmir</a> Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation.&nbsp;

Subrahmanyam stated that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/governor-satya-pal-malik-directs-government-officers-to-resume-normal-functioning-in-jammu-and-kashmir-from-today-243304">preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir</a> were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy. He stated that the restrictions were placed after credible inputs were received on planned strikes in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"In implementing the decision taken last fortnight, cross-border terrorism required the government to put in place certain preventing steps. The important factor was credible inputs that such organisations were planning to undertake strikes in J&amp;K in the immediate future. Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement and telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools and colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in an accordance with provisions of law to maintain law and order," Subrahmanyam told reporters in Srinagar today.&nbsp;

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J&amp;K Chief Secy:Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement &amp; telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools &amp; colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in accordance with provisions of law to maintain law&amp;order <a href="https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz">https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162298625852133376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"No violence has been reported in the past five days despite concerted efforts from Pakistan," he stated.&nbsp;

Subrahmanyam added that while medical facilities continue to operate, schools and offices will resume after the weekend from Monday. "Government offices have already been made operational from today," he stated. Resumption of telephone lines will also be done in phases, he added.&nbsp;

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J&amp;K Chief Secretary, BVR Subrahmanyam in Srinagar: Schools will be opened after the weekend area by area. Movement of public transport to be made operational. Govt offices are functional from today. Telecom connectivity will be gradually eased and restored in a phased manner. <a href="https://t.co/z6k0hj58rV">pic.twitter.com/z6k0hj58rV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162298846321532928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Srinagar airport has been cleared for night flights, security forces continue to remain vigil," he noted.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary also said that the preventive detentions are currently under review and appropriate decisions will be made based on law and order assessments.&nbsp;

"The government's focus is on the earliest return to normalcy while ensuring that terrorist forces are given no opportunity to wreak havoc as in the past," he said.&nbsp;

He told reporters that at present, 12 of 22 districts are functioning normally in Jammu and Kashmir with some limited restrictions in 5 districts.&nbsp;

"The measures put in place have ensured that there has not been a single loss of life," Subrahmanyam said.&nbsp;

"Keeping in view the evolving situation and cooperation of people, we are now taking measures to ease the restrictions in a gradual calibrated manner after the reports that today's Friday prayers have gone quite peacefully. There would be easing of restrictions in the next few days in an orderly manner and restriction on movement would be removed area by area," said J&amp;K chief secretary.

"It is expected that in the next few days, as restrictions get eased life in Jammu and Kashmir will become completely normal. Roads are full of regular traffic and we expect to see an increase in it in coming few days," said Subrahmanyam.

As the restrictions on movement would be removed area by area, the movement of public transport would be allowed in these areas.&nbsp;

He further noted that telecom connectivity will gradually be restored in a phase-wise manner keeping in mind constant threat posed by terrorist's organizations in using mobile connectivity to organize terror actions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said.

This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it.

On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir.

The decision to lift the restrictions in J&amp;K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return.

Centre, last week, abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation. Subrahmanyam stated that the preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation. Subrahmanyam stated that the preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy. He stated that the restrictions were placed after credible inputs were received on planned strikes in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported. "In implementing the decision taken last fortnight, cross-border terrorism required the government to put in place certain preventing steps. The important factor was credible inputs that such organisations were planning to undertake strikes in J&K in the immediate future. Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement and telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools and colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in an accordance with provisions of law to maintain law and order," Subrahmanyam told reporters in Srinagar today. J&K Chief Secy:Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement & telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools & colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in accordance with provisions of law to maintain law&order https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × "No violence has been reported in the past five days despite concerted efforts from Pakistan," he stated. Subrahmanyam added that while medical facilities continue to operate, schools and offices will resume after the weekend from Monday. "Government offices have already been made operational from today," he stated. Resumption of telephone lines will also be done in phases, he added. J&K Chief Secretary, BVR Subrahmanyam in Srinagar: Schools will be opened after the weekend area by area. Movement of public transport to be made operational. Govt offices are functional from today. Telecom connectivity will be gradually eased and restored in a phased manner. pic.twitter.com/z6k0hj58rV — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × "Srinagar airport has been cleared for night flights, security forces continue to remain vigil," he noted. Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary also said that the preventive detentions are currently under review and appropriate decisions will be made based on law and order assessments. "The government's focus is on the earliest return to normalcy while ensuring that terrorist forces are given no opportunity to wreak havoc as in the past," he said. He told reporters that at present, 12 of 22 districts are functioning normally in Jammu and Kashmir with some limited restrictions in 5 districts. "The measures put in place have ensured that there has not been a single loss of life," Subrahmanyam said. "Keeping in view the evolving situation and cooperation of people, we are now taking measures to ease the restrictions in a gradual calibrated manner after the reports that today's Friday prayers have gone quite peacefully. There would be easing of restrictions in the next few days in an orderly manner and restriction on movement would be removed area by area," said J&K chief secretary. "It is expected that in the next few days, as restrictions get eased life in Jammu and Kashmir will become completely normal. Roads are full of regular traffic and we expect to see an increase in it in coming few days," said Subrahmanyam. As the restrictions on movement would be removed area by area, the movement of public transport would be allowed in these areas. He further noted that telecom connectivity will gradually be restored in a phase-wise manner keeping in mind constant threat posed by terrorist's organizations in using mobile connectivity to organize terror actions. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said. This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it. On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to lift the restrictions in J&K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return. Centre, last week, abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

Focus is on earliest return to normalcy; schools, offices to open Monday: J&K chief secretary

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally'&nbsp;in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said,&nbsp;"Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state."

"This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75'&nbsp;which needs support from the state's people," he said.

Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days."

"It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said.

"Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history."

Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe.

"Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918."

"In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said.

The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started."

Shah also paid tributes to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-family-members-pay-tribute-to-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-first-death-anniversary-243239">former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a> on his first death anniversary.

"Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year. He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally' in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said, "Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state." "This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75' which needs support from the state's people," he said. Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days." "It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said. "Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history." Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe. "Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918." "In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said. The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started." Shah also paid tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary. "Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

At Jind rally, Amit Shah talks of 'Mission 75', slams Congress for not revoking Article 370

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam reassured that Kashmir is returning to normalcy. Schools offices to open from tomorrow. Medical facilities and hospitals continue to function. Phone lines expected to resume from tomorrow.

WION Dispatch: Kashmir returning to normalcy, says J&K chief secretary

Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam reassured that Kashmir is returning to normalcy. Schools offices to open from tomorrow. Medical facilities and hospitals continue to function. Phone lines expected to resume from tomorrow. Watch this video to know more.

Normalcy in Kashmir only a matter of time: J&K chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam to WION

Kashmir returning to normalcy, schools offices to open from tomorrow: J&K chief secretary

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