The Jammu and Kashmir Police and its specialised Counter-Intelligence Wing are actively pursuing operations to neutralise terrorist networks throughout the Union Territory. As part of these efforts, the Counter-Intelligence wing recently conducted raids inside the high-security Kot Balwal Jail in Jammu to probe possible links between inmates and terror modules operating outside.&nbsp;Officials confirmed that searches are currently underway at Kot Balwal Central Jail, which houses high-profile Pakistani and local terrorists along with notorious criminals. According to police sources, the operation aims to uncover and dismantle terror networks allegedly being operated from within the prison.&nbsp;These raids are part of an intensified crackdown triggered by the recent dismantling of a Faridabad-based terror module and the November 10 car bomb explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort.&nbsp;In a large-scale operation, the Counter-Intelligence Wing of Jammu and Kashmir Police has conducted approximately 2,700 raids across the Union Territory to date. Around 600 individuals have been detained for questioning; most were released after preliminary interrogation, while a number remain in custody for further investigation.&nbsp;Earlier, security forces conducted simultaneous raids on several jails across Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar Central Jail, Kupwara District Jail, Pulwama, Kathua, and Rajouri jails. According to reliable sources, multiple unauthorised communication devices, including mobile phones and SIM cards, were recovered during these operations.

These raids are part of an intensified crackdown triggered by the recent dismantling of a Faridabad-based terror module and the November 10 car bomb explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police and its specialised Counter-Intelligence Wing are actively pursuing operations to neutralise terrorist networks throughout the Union Territory. As part of these efforts, the Counter-Intelligence wing recently conducted raids inside the high-security Kot Balwal Jail in Jammu to probe possible links between inmates and terror modules operating outside. Officials confirmed that searches are currently underway at Kot Balwal Central Jail, which houses high-profile Pakistani and local terrorists along with notorious criminals. According to police sources, the operation aims to uncover and dismantle terror networks allegedly being operated from within the prison. These raids are part of an intensified crackdown triggered by the recent dismantling of a Faridabad-based terror module and the November 10 car bomb explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort. In a large-scale operation, the Counter-Intelligence Wing of Jammu and Kashmir Police has conducted approximately 2,700 raids across the Union Territory to date. Around 600 individuals have been detained for questioning; most were released after preliminary interrogation, while a number remain in custody for further investigation. Earlier, security forces conducted simultaneous raids on several jails across Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar Central Jail, Kupwara District Jail, Pulwama, Kathua, and Rajouri jails. According to reliable sources, multiple unauthorised communication devices, including mobile phones and SIM cards, were recovered during these operations.

These raids are part of an intensified crackdown triggered by the recent dismantling of a Faridabad-based terror module and the November 10 car bomb explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort.

Counter Intelligence Wing storms J&K 's Kot Bhalwal Jail in major crackdown on Red Fort blast terror links

In a thunderous three-pronged assault on the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), Jammu and Kashmir Police stormed over 230 locations across Kulgam, Sopore, and Awantipora, seizing incriminating documents, digital devices, and detaining scores of members and associates in a bid to crush the terror ecosystem at its grassroots.&nbsp;The largest sweep hit South Kashmir's Kulgam, where over 200 raids targeted homes and premises of JeI cadres and their networks. Over the past four days, more than 400 Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) swept through hideouts of overground workers (OGWs), operatives, past encounter sites, and terrorist safehouses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Around 500 individuals linked to banned outfits were interrogated, and many were shifted to District Jail Mattan, Anantnag, under preventive laws. "We are dismantling the support structure brick by brick," a senior officer said, confirming recovery of propaganda material and electronic devices.&nbsp;In North Kashmir's Sopore, a simultaneous crackdown saw over 30 raids across Sopore, Zainageer, and Rafiabad by Jammu and Kashmir Police. Acting on intelligence of JeI attempting revival under civilian fronts, police recovered documents, digital gadgets, and printed seditious content. Several suspects are being questioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, in South Kashmir's Awantipora, multiple JeI-linked residences were raided, yielding incriminating digital evidence. Several members were booked under UAPA provisions as part of ongoing efforts to sever logistical and ideological lifelines.&nbsp;The synchronised operations among the largest since JeI’s 2019 ban signal J&amp;K Police’s zero-tolerance doctrine against terror enablers. With peace holding a fragile post after the Red Fort blast, authorities vow: No element will be allowed to disturb public order.&nbsp;

Over the past four days, more than 400 Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) swept through hideouts of overground workers (OGWs), operatives, past encounter sites, and terrorist safehouses. 

In a thunderous three-pronged assault on the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), Jammu and Kashmir Police stormed over 230 locations across Kulgam, Sopore, and Awantipora, seizing incriminating documents, digital devices, and detaining scores of members and associates in a bid to crush the terror ecosystem at its grassroots. The largest sweep hit South Kashmir's Kulgam, where over 200 raids targeted homes and premises of JeI cadres and their networks. Over the past four days, more than 400 Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) swept through hideouts of overground workers (OGWs), operatives, past encounter sites, and terrorist safehouses. Around 500 individuals linked to banned outfits were interrogated, and many were shifted to District Jail Mattan, Anantnag, under preventive laws. "We are dismantling the support structure brick by brick," a senior officer said, confirming recovery of propaganda material and electronic devices. In North Kashmir's Sopore, a simultaneous crackdown saw over 30 raids across Sopore, Zainageer, and Rafiabad by Jammu and Kashmir Police. Acting on intelligence of JeI attempting revival under civilian fronts, police recovered documents, digital gadgets, and printed seditious content. Several suspects are being questioned. Meanwhile, in South Kashmir's Awantipora, multiple JeI-linked residences were raided, yielding incriminating digital evidence. Several members were booked under UAPA provisions as part of ongoing efforts to sever logistical and ideological lifelines. The synchronised operations among the largest since JeI’s 2019 ban signal J&K Police’s zero-tolerance doctrine against terror enablers. With peace holding a fragile post after the Red Fort blast, authorities vow: No element will be allowed to disturb public order.

Over the past four days, more than 400 Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) swept through hideouts of overground workers (OGWs), operatives, past encounter sites, and terrorist safehouses.&nbsp;

J&K police launches mega crackdown on banned Jamaat-e-Islami; 230 locations raided, 500 questioned

As part of its continued efforts to dismantle separatist networks and Pakistan-backed terror ecosystems, Budgam Police on Monday (Nov 10, 2025) carried out a massive crackdown on the separatist network of Ghulam Nabi Fai @ Dr Fai S/o Habib-ul-Llah Shah, a native of Wadwan Budgam and presently residing in the United States of America. In addition, multiple searches were conducted by Budgam Police to target his network&nbsp;Dr Fai is involved in FIR No. 46/2020 under Sections 10, 13 and 39 of the ULA(P) Act and Section 66 of the IT Act at Police Station Budgam. The Hon’ble Court of Special Judge NIA, Budgam, has already declared him a ‘proclaimed offender’ on April 30, 2025, in connection with the said case. Proceedings of attachment of his property are also being carried out by Budgam Police.<h3>Budgam Police intensified its crackdown&nbsp;</h3>The accused heads the Washington-based Kashmiri American Council (KAC), backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and is known for propagating Pakistan’s narrative on Kashmir. In a recent interview with a Turkey-based TV channel, Dr Fai made statements supporting the banned organisation JKLF (Y), declared unlawful vide Government Notification S.O. 1403(E) Dated March 22, 2019.&nbsp;During the operation, multiple houses were searched, and several individuals were detained for questioning. The action forms part of the J&amp;K Police’s Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism and separatist support networks.&nbsp;Budgam Police has also intensified its crackdown on J&amp;K Nationals Operating from Pakistan/Pak-Occupied Kashmir (JKNOPs) and SIM card vendors facilitating terror communications. Budgam Police reiterate its commitment to dismantling the terror support infrastructure and ensuring lasting peace, security and stability in the district.

During the operation, multiple houses were searched, and several individuals were detained for questioning. The action forms part of the J&K Police’s Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism and separatist support networks.

As part of its continued efforts to dismantle separatist networks and Pakistan-backed terror ecosystems, Budgam Police on Monday (Nov 10, 2025) carried out a massive crackdown on the separatist network of Ghulam Nabi Fai @ Dr Fai S/o Habib-ul-Llah Shah, a native of Wadwan Budgam and presently residing in the United States of America. In addition, multiple searches were conducted by Budgam Police to target his network Dr Fai is involved in FIR No. 46/2020 under Sections 10, 13 and 39 of the ULA(P) Act and Section 66 of the IT Act at Police Station Budgam. The Hon’ble Court of Special Judge NIA, Budgam, has already declared him a ‘proclaimed offender’ on April 30, 2025, in connection with the said case. Proceedings of attachment of his property are also being carried out by Budgam Police. Budgam Police intensified its crackdown The accused heads the Washington-based Kashmiri American Council (KAC), backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and is known for propagating Pakistan’s narrative on Kashmir. In a recent interview with a Turkey-based TV channel, Dr Fai made statements supporting the banned organisation JKLF (Y), declared unlawful vide Government Notification S.O. 1403(E) Dated March 22, 2019. During the operation, multiple houses were searched, and several individuals were detained for questioning. The action forms part of the J&K Police’s Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism and separatist support networks. Budgam Police has also intensified its crackdown on J&K Nationals Operating from Pakistan/Pak-Occupied Kashmir (JKNOPs) and SIM card vendors facilitating terror communications. Budgam Police reiterate its commitment to dismantling the terror support infrastructure and ensuring lasting peace, security and stability in the district.

During the operation, multiple houses were searched, and several individuals were detained for questioning. The action forms part of the J&amp;K Police’s Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism and separatist support networks.

Budgam Police cracks down on US-based separatist Ghulam Nabi Fai’s network in J&K

Two Special Police Officers (SPOs) were dismissed from service due to their alleged links with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, officials said on Sunday. The SPOs, identified as Abdul Latief and Mohd Abbas, had been arrested earlier for their alleged involvement in terror activities, the officials added.&nbsp;Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohita Sharma, ordered their immediate dismissal. The two are accused of providing support to terrorists.&nbsp;More details about the story are awaited.&nbsp;

The SPOs, identified as Abdul Latief and Mohd Abbas, had been arrested earlier for their alleged involvement in terror activities, the officials added. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohita Sharma, ordered their immediate dismissal.

Two Special Police Officers (SPOs) were dismissed from service due to their alleged links with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, officials said on Sunday. The SPOs, identified as Abdul Latief and Mohd Abbas, had been arrested earlier for their alleged involvement in terror activities, the officials added. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohita Sharma, ordered their immediate dismissal. The two are accused of providing support to terrorists. More details about the story are awaited.

The SPOs, identified as Abdul Latief and Mohd Abbas, had been arrested earlier for their alleged involvement in terror activities, the officials added. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohita Sharma, ordered their immediate dismissal.

Two Special Police Officers dismissed over terror links in J&K's Kathua

Chaos erupted in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday as three BJP MLAs were marshalled out for protesting alleged corruption in the Roads and Buildings Department and the government's refusal to permit a discussion on flood relief measures.<h3>How did the incident unfold?</h3>The disruption unfolded during Question Hour when BJP legislators demanded an adjournment motion to address the recent floods, which they said had caused widespread damage across the Union Territory.&nbsp;However, the Speaker ruled that a fresh motion could not be entertained on a matter already rejected earlier in the session. Dissatisfied with the ruling, Leader of the Opposition Sunil Kumar Sharma accused the government of dodging debate on what he called a grave humanitarian crisis. “Every corner of Jammu and Kashmir has been ravaged by floods triggered by relentless heavy rains,” he declared.&nbsp;“People expect their representatives to voice their suffering, yet no discussion has been allowed,” Sharma retorted, demanding an immediate suspension of Question Hour. Tensions flared when Sharma brandished a newspaper report exposing alleged irregularities in the Roads and Buildings Department, igniting fierce exchanges and slogan-shouting between the treasury and opposition benches. Despite the Speaker’s repeated calls for order, protesting BJP legislators persisted with their uproar inside the House.&nbsp;Chaos erupted as BJP MLAs R.S. Pathania, Sunil Bhardwaj, and Surinder Kumar stormed the well of the House. Marshals were summoned to escort the members out, halting proceedings briefly before the session resumed.

The disruption unfolded during Question Hour when BJP legislators demanded an adjournment motion to address the recent floods, which they said had caused widespread damage across the Union Territory.

Chaos erupted in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday as three BJP MLAs were marshalled out for protesting alleged corruption in the Roads and Buildings Department and the government's refusal to permit a discussion on flood relief measures. How did the incident unfold? The disruption unfolded during Question Hour when BJP legislators demanded an adjournment motion to address the recent floods, which they said had caused widespread damage across the Union Territory. However, the Speaker ruled that a fresh motion could not be entertained on a matter already rejected earlier in the session. Dissatisfied with the ruling, Leader of the Opposition Sunil Kumar Sharma accused the government of dodging debate on what he called a grave humanitarian crisis. “Every corner of Jammu and Kashmir has been ravaged by floods triggered by relentless heavy rains,” he declared. “People expect their representatives to voice their suffering, yet no discussion has been allowed,” Sharma retorted, demanding an immediate suspension of Question Hour. Tensions flared when Sharma brandished a newspaper report exposing alleged irregularities in the Roads and Buildings Department, igniting fierce exchanges and slogan-shouting between the treasury and opposition benches. Despite the Speaker’s repeated calls for order, protesting BJP legislators persisted with their uproar inside the House. Chaos erupted as BJP MLAs R.S. Pathania, Sunil Bhardwaj, and Surinder Kumar stormed the well of the House. Marshals were summoned to escort the members out, halting proceedings briefly before the session resumed.

The disruption unfolded during Question Hour when BJP legislators demanded an adjournment motion to address the recent floods, which they said had caused widespread damage across the Union Territory.

Chaos in J&K assembly as three BJP MLA’s marshalled out — Here's why

In a sustained offensive against Pakistan-based terror networks, Jammu and Kashmir Police have attached properties belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives in Poonch and Budgam districts recently, dealing a significant blow to the group's infrastructure in the region.&nbsp;In the Mendhar area of Poonch, authorities seized 17 kanals and 2.5 marlas of land worth crores under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The property belongs to Mohd. Jahangir, a resident of Village Kalaban, is currently operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a LeT commander. From across the border, Jahangir has been attempting to orchestrate terrorist activities in Poonch, revive militancy using old contacts, and was involved in facilitating attacks in the area last year, as well as over several years.&nbsp;Earlier, in a parallel action in central Kashmir's Budgam district, police attached a 1 kanal plot in Meeripora Beerwah under the same Section 25 of UAPA, 1967. The land, identified under Survey No. 204, is owned by Muneer Ahmad Wani, son of Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident of Mairipora Beerwah and a confirmed terror associate of the banned LeT outfit.&nbsp;Investigations linked the property to supporting and furthering LeT's terrorist operations. The attachment stems from FIR No. 66/2025 at Magam Police Station, invoking Sections 7/25 of the Indian Arms Act alongside Sections 18, 20, 23, 38, and 39 of UAPA. The move was executed with approval from competent authorities.&nbsp;These operations highlight the police's unwavering resolve to dismantle terror financing and logistical support systems. "We will continue to act decisively against anyone providing support to terrorist organisations," a police spokesperson stated, emphasising ongoing efforts to curb anti-national activities. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to stringent measures against individuals aiding LeT and other Pakistan-backed groups. Further probes are underway to expose additional network links, as the crackdown on cross-border terrorism in J&amp;K gathers momentum. &nbsp;

In the Mendhar area of Poonch, authorities seized 17 kanals and 2.5 marlas of land worth crores under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The property belongs to Mohd. Jahangir, a resident of Village Kalaban, is currently operating from PoK as a LeT commander.

In a sustained offensive against Pakistan-based terror networks, Jammu and Kashmir Police have attached properties belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives in Poonch and Budgam districts recently, dealing a significant blow to the group's infrastructure in the region. In the Mendhar area of Poonch, authorities seized 17 kanals and 2.5 marlas of land worth crores under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The property belongs to Mohd. Jahangir, a resident of Village Kalaban, is currently operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a LeT commander. From across the border, Jahangir has been attempting to orchestrate terrorist activities in Poonch, revive militancy using old contacts, and was involved in facilitating attacks in the area last year, as well as over several years. Earlier, in a parallel action in central Kashmir's Budgam district, police attached a 1 kanal plot in Meeripora Beerwah under the same Section 25 of UAPA, 1967. The land, identified under Survey No. 204, is owned by Muneer Ahmad Wani, son of Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident of Mairipora Beerwah and a confirmed terror associate of the banned LeT outfit. Investigations linked the property to supporting and furthering LeT's terrorist operations. The attachment stems from FIR No. 66/2025 at Magam Police Station, invoking Sections 7/25 of the Indian Arms Act alongside Sections 18, 20, 23, 38, and 39 of UAPA. The move was executed with approval from competent authorities. These operations highlight the police's unwavering resolve to dismantle terror financing and logistical support systems. "We will continue to act decisively against anyone providing support to terrorist organisations," a police spokesperson stated, emphasising ongoing efforts to curb anti-national activities. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to stringent measures against individuals aiding LeT and other Pakistan-backed groups. Further probes are underway to expose additional network links, as the crackdown on cross-border terrorism in J&K gathers momentum.

In the Mendhar area of Poonch, authorities seized 17 kanals and 2.5 marlas of land worth crores under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The property belongs to Mohd. Jahangir, a resident of Village Kalaban, is currently operating from PoK as a LeT commander.

J&K police intensify crackdown on terrorists, properties worth crores attached

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in restoring statehood to the region, stating that hopes for its reinstatement are “fading with each passing day.” Speaking to reporters at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar on Monday, Abdullah highlighted the mounting uncertainty surrounding the issue, which has lingered since the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in August 2019.&nbsp;“I had been expecting the return of statehood from day one after the 2019 changes,” Abdullah said. “But as time drags on, the prospects seem to dim further.” His remarks underscore the growing frustration among regional leaders and citizens awaiting the restoration of full statehood, a promise made by the central government following the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;Abdullah also addressed recent comments by National Conference MP Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, describing him as a respected, fatherly figure within the party. “I spoke to Mian Sahib over the phone, and he has not said anything wrong. His advice mirrors what my father would tell me, and I hold him in high regard,” the Chief Minister said. He emphasised the importance of resolving internal party matters privately, noting that he had urged Mian Altaf to discuss concerns directly with him rather than through public statements. “Anyone who wants to talk should come to me directly. We can sort things out without involving others,” he added.&nbsp;In a pointed remark, Abdullah drew a stark contrast between Mian Altaf and another party MP, Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, who recently criticised the state government. “There is a difference between earth and sky when comparing the two,” Abdullah said, declining to elaborate further on Mehdi’s statements. “I will not talk about him. Where is Mian Altaf, and where is he?”&nbsp;Abdullah’s comments reflect both the internal dynamics within the National Conference and the broader political challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir as it navigates the complex path toward restored statehood.

J&K CM and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah highlighted the mounting uncertainty surrounding the issue, which has lingered since the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in August 2019.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in restoring statehood to the region, stating that hopes for its reinstatement are “fading with each passing day.” Speaking to reporters at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar on Monday, Abdullah highlighted the mounting uncertainty surrounding the issue, which has lingered since the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in August 2019. “I had been expecting the return of statehood from day one after the 2019 changes,” Abdullah said. “But as time drags on, the prospects seem to dim further.” His remarks underscore the growing frustration among regional leaders and citizens awaiting the restoration of full statehood, a promise made by the central government following the abrogation of Article 370. Abdullah also addressed recent comments by National Conference MP Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, describing him as a respected, fatherly figure within the party. “I spoke to Mian Sahib over the phone, and he has not said anything wrong. His advice mirrors what my father would tell me, and I hold him in high regard,” the Chief Minister said. He emphasised the importance of resolving internal party matters privately, noting that he had urged Mian Altaf to discuss concerns directly with him rather than through public statements. “Anyone who wants to talk should come to me directly. We can sort things out without involving others,” he added. In a pointed remark, Abdullah drew a stark contrast between Mian Altaf and another party MP, Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, who recently criticised the state government. “There is a difference between earth and sky when comparing the two,” Abdullah said, declining to elaborate further on Mehdi’s statements. “I will not talk about him. Where is Mian Altaf, and where is he?” Abdullah’s comments reflect both the internal dynamics within the National Conference and the broader political challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir as it navigates the complex path toward restored statehood.

J&amp;K CM and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah highlighted the mounting uncertainty surrounding the issue, which has lingered since the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in August 2019.

CM Omar Abdullah voices deep concern over delay in J&K statehood restoration

Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing an exceptionally severe monsoon season this year, marked by extreme weather conditions. In response, authorities have ordered the closure of all educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities across the region, to ensure public safety amid the inclement weather. In South Kashmir, the districts of Kulgam, Anantnag, and Shopian have been severely affected, with numerous areas inundated due to relentless rainfall.&nbsp;''There have been intense showers across Kashmir and more in South and Central Kashmir. The water levels are increasing in Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh. The IMD also said that there will be relief in the rains from Wednesday onwards. The contingency plans by the flood irrigation department have been made. Wherever they felt the need to strengthen the embankments. We have also shifted people from low lying areas to safer places. We need to be alert and we should follow all the advisories," said Anshul Garg, divisional commissioner, Kashmir.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the Dangerpora area of Budgam district, approximately 18 houses have been completely submerged as floodwaters overflowed from a nearby flood channel. All the residents from the area were shifted to the local higher secondary school. The government has also asked people to stay away from the water bodies and be alert.&nbsp;&nbsp;''This is Dangerpora area of Wathoora, We have rescued all the people from this area and kept them at a safe place. Some nomadic families have been rescued as well. There is no one in the houses that are inundated at the moment. We are running rescue centres. We are also monitoring the situation and making sure that there is no breach, at some places it's overflowing. All the teams of SDRF, JK Police, Revenue and civil administration are on ground. We are reinforcing the embankments with sandbags, and I request people to venture closer to the water bodies," said Bilal Mohiuddin, DC Budgam.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local administration, successfully rescued approximately 2,500 individuals, including 50 nomadic families, who found themselves stranded in different upper areas of Anantnag, Kulgam and Shopian districts due to rapidly rising water levels caused by relentless rainfall.&nbsp;&nbsp;The chief minister chaired a meeting on Wednesday morning to review the situation arising from the incessant rains. He directed the administration to intensify ground response, ensure clearance of waterlogged areas, safeguard essential services, carry out timely evacuations in critical zones, and provide immediate relief. The National Highways that connect Srinagar to Jammu, Srinagar to Leh and Mughal Road have been closed for traffic. People are advised not to undertake journeys on NH-44 till the weather improves and restoration work is completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The MeT Department said that Significant rainfall was recorded across Jammu and Kashmir. (mm). In Jammu observatory 31 mm, Jammu Bakore 56.5mm, Samba 61 mm, Reasi 20 mm, Katra 27.3 mm, Bhaderwah 13 mm, Batote 22.4 mm, Doda 8 mm, Kishtwar 19 mm, Banihal 20 mm, Rajouri 6 mm, Pahalgam 8 mm, Kokernag 13.8 mm, Anantnag 13 mm, Srinagar observatory 7.6 mm, Qazigund 12.8 mm, respectively.&nbsp;They further predicted that from September 3 onwards Generally cloudy weather with Light to moderate rain/thunder at many places with possibility of heavy to very heavy rain over few districts of Jammu Division and moderate to heavy rainfall over South Kashmir till late afternoon and gradual improvement thereafter. From 4-7 Sept, brief spell of rain/thunder at few places with moderate showers over few places of Jammu Division. They also said that significant rise in water level in Jhelum, Tawi river and other local rivers and tributaries and water logging/flooding in low lying areas is expected. People need to stay away from water bodies/nallas/river embankments/loose structures etc.&nbsp;

Monsoon chaos in J&K Highways shut schools closed people evacuated from low lying areas

Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing an exceptionally severe monsoon season this year, marked by extreme weather conditions. In response, authorities have ordered the closure of all educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities across the region, to ensure public safety amid the inclement weather. In South Kashmir, the districts of Kulgam, Anantnag, and Shopian have been severely affected, with numerous areas inundated due to relentless rainfall. ''There have been intense showers across Kashmir and more in South and Central Kashmir. The water levels are increasing in Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh. The IMD also said that there will be relief in the rains from Wednesday onwards. The contingency plans by the flood irrigation department have been made. Wherever they felt the need to strengthen the embankments. We have also shifted people from low lying areas to safer places. We need to be alert and we should follow all the advisories," said Anshul Garg, divisional commissioner, Kashmir. In the Dangerpora area of Budgam district, approximately 18 houses have been completely submerged as floodwaters overflowed from a nearby flood channel. All the residents from the area were shifted to the local higher secondary school. The government has also asked people to stay away from the water bodies and be alert. ''This is Dangerpora area of Wathoora, We have rescued all the people from this area and kept them at a safe place. Some nomadic families have been rescued as well. There is no one in the houses that are inundated at the moment. We are running rescue centres. We are also monitoring the situation and making sure that there is no breach, at some places it's overflowing. All the teams of SDRF, JK Police, Revenue and civil administration are on ground. We are reinforcing the embankments with sandbags, and I request people to venture closer to the water bodies," said Bilal Mohiuddin, DC Budgam. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local administration, successfully rescued approximately 2,500 individuals, including 50 nomadic families, who found themselves stranded in different upper areas of Anantnag, Kulgam and Shopian districts due to rapidly rising water levels caused by relentless rainfall. The chief minister chaired a meeting on Wednesday morning to review the situation arising from the incessant rains. He directed the administration to intensify ground response, ensure clearance of waterlogged areas, safeguard essential services, carry out timely evacuations in critical zones, and provide immediate relief. The National Highways that connect Srinagar to Jammu, Srinagar to Leh and Mughal Road have been closed for traffic. People are advised not to undertake journeys on NH-44 till the weather improves and restoration work is completed. The MeT Department said that Significant rainfall was recorded across Jammu and Kashmir. (mm). In Jammu observatory 31 mm, Jammu Bakore 56.5mm, Samba 61 mm, Reasi 20 mm, Katra 27.3 mm, Bhaderwah 13 mm, Batote 22.4 mm, Doda 8 mm, Kishtwar 19 mm, Banihal 20 mm, Rajouri 6 mm, Pahalgam 8 mm, Kokernag 13.8 mm, Anantnag 13 mm, Srinagar observatory 7.6 mm, Qazigund 12.8 mm, respectively. They further predicted that from September 3 onwards Generally cloudy weather with Light to moderate rain/thunder at many places with possibility of heavy to very heavy rain over few districts of Jammu Division and moderate to heavy rainfall over South Kashmir till late afternoon and gradual improvement thereafter. From 4-7 Sept, brief spell of rain/thunder at few places with moderate showers over few places of Jammu Division. They also said that significant rise in water level in Jhelum, Tawi river and other local rivers and tributaries and water logging/flooding in low lying areas is expected. People need to stay away from water bodies/nallas/river embankments/loose structures etc.

In South Kashmir, the districts of Kulgam, Anantnag, and Shopian have been severely affected, with numerous areas inundated due to relentless rainfall

Monsoon chaos in J&K: Highways shut, schools closed; people evacuated from low-lying areas

In a shocking Incident in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, an elder sister has been arrested for murdering her younger sister. The body of the 14-year-old girl was discovered on the Batsar-Sephora road by Jammu and Kashmir police. And within 48 hours of the incident, the Jammu and Kashmir Police solved the mystery behind the murder.While speaking to the Media, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal, said that after a quick investigation into the case, it was revealed that the elder sister was involved in the killing incident.&nbsp;"A case was registered immediately after the discovery of the body, and our investigation quickly pointed to the role of the deceased's sister. An altercation between the two sisters escalated into violence, &nbsp;the elder sister struck the younger sibling with a rod, resulting in the tragic fatality, '' said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal.&nbsp;The shocking incident had drawn widespread condemnation, including from the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah. Omar has described the murder as "heinous" and expressed deep anguish over the loss of such a young life.&nbsp;The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had called for stringent punishment for those responsible for the crime, emphasizing that justice must be served.&nbsp;More to follow…

The shocking incident had drawn widespread condemnation, including from the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah. 

In a shocking Incident in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, an elder sister has been arrested for murdering her younger sister. The body of the 14-year-old girl was discovered on the Batsar-Sephora road by Jammu and Kashmir police. And within 48 hours of the incident, the Jammu and Kashmir Police solved the mystery behind the murder. While speaking to the Media, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal, said that after a quick investigation into the case, it was revealed that the elder sister was involved in the killing incident. "A case was registered immediately after the discovery of the body, and our investigation quickly pointed to the role of the deceased's sister. An altercation between the two sisters escalated into violence, the elder sister struck the younger sibling with a rod, resulting in the tragic fatality, '' said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal. The shocking incident had drawn widespread condemnation, including from the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah. Omar has described the murder as "heinous" and expressed deep anguish over the loss of such a young life. The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had called for stringent punishment for those responsible for the crime, emphasizing that justice must be served. More to follow…

The shocking incident had drawn widespread condemnation, including from the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

Elder sister kills younger sister in Kashmir; Police solve case within 48 hours

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have announced the closure of the schools, both government and Private, in the Jammu division for the second consecutive day. The authorities issued an order stating that, in the Jammu division, because of the inclement and bad weather conditions, ordered that All Government as well as Private Schools of the Jammu Division shall remain closed on Tuesday.However, after the closure of the National Highway on Monday, traffic was allowed to ply on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on Tuesday. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed to all vehicular traffic due to heavy rainfall and shooting stones at multiple locations on Monday.More than 70 people have died in the two Cloudburst Incidents in Kishtwar and Kathua districts of the Jammu Division. According to officials, the relief and rescue operation by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu, and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration is still being carried out in the Kishtwar region, with three new dead bodies recovered from the incident site.On Sunday, a massive Cloud Burst in Kathua district caused major landslides and mudslides, leading to the deaths of seven people and injuries to six. A massive rescue and relief operation was carried out by NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and civil administration.The Indian Army swiftly mounted large-scale rescue and relief operations to support the distressed population. The sudden deluge triggered massive landslides and flooding, causing tragic loss of lives and extensive damage to infrastructure. Army relief columns, with an Engineer detachment, were immediately pressed into action in the worst-affected regions.The MeT Department in Jammu and Kashmir has predicted more rain for the next 12 hours, which could lead to cloudbursts and landslides , and mudslides in various areas. MeT says that Light to moderate Rain/Thunder at many places with intense showers/heavy Rain at a few places of Jammu Division including Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba &amp; Kathua, with moderate to intense showers over Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban. However, from tomorrow onwards, the weather is likely to improve. &nbsp;

Schools across Jammu division will remain shut for a second day Tuesday due to bad weather, officials said. The Jammu-Srinagar highway reopened after Monday’s closure, but over 70 people have died in recent cloudbursts in Kishtwar and Kathua. 

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have announced the closure of the schools, both government and Private, in the Jammu division for the second consecutive day. The authorities issued an order stating that, in the Jammu division, because of the inclement and bad weather conditions, ordered that All Government as well as Private Schools of the Jammu Division shall remain closed on Tuesday. However, after the closure of the National Highway on Monday, traffic was allowed to ply on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on Tuesday. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed to all vehicular traffic due to heavy rainfall and shooting stones at multiple locations on Monday. More than 70 people have died in the two Cloudburst Incidents in Kishtwar and Kathua districts of the Jammu Division. According to officials, the relief and rescue operation by the NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu, and Kashmir Police and Civil Administration is still being carried out in the Kishtwar region, with three new dead bodies recovered from the incident site. On Sunday, a massive Cloud Burst in Kathua district caused major landslides and mudslides, leading to the deaths of seven people and injuries to six. A massive rescue and relief operation was carried out by NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and civil administration. The Indian Army swiftly mounted large-scale rescue and relief operations to support the distressed population. The sudden deluge triggered massive landslides and flooding, causing tragic loss of lives and extensive damage to infrastructure. Army relief columns, with an Engineer detachment, were immediately pressed into action in the worst-affected regions. The MeT Department in Jammu and Kashmir has predicted more rain for the next 12 hours, which could lead to cloudbursts and landslides , and mudslides in various areas. MeT says that Light to moderate Rain/Thunder at many places with intense showers/heavy Rain at a few places of Jammu Division including Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba & Kathua, with moderate to intense showers over Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban. However, from tomorrow onwards, the weather is likely to improve.

Schools across Jammu division will remain shut for a second day Tuesday due to bad weather, officials said. The Jammu-Srinagar highway reopened after Monday’s closure, but over 70 people have died in recent cloudbursts in Kishtwar and Kathua.&nbsp;

Jammu & Kashmir rains: Schools shut in Jammu for second consecutive day, MeT says weather to improve tomorrow onwards

At least seven people were killed, while several others were injured in two incidents of cloudburst and landslide in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. Following the cloudburst, the Rail operations in certain sections were affected, causing temporary disruptions due to heavy rainfall. The authorities are taking necessary measures to restore normalcy in the area while ensuring safety.&nbsp;Uchit Singhal, Sr DCM Jammu Division of Northern Railway, said in a statement that heavy rains have resulted in water going beyond the danger level at Bridge-43 between Kathua and Budhi. As a result, the train movement on the up line has been temporarily suspended, and up trains are being operated via a temporary single line on the down line track.&nbsp;“Multiple calls are being received with respect to track damage. It is to clarify that due to heavy rains, water is flowing above the danger level through Br-43 between Kathua and Budhi. In the wake of this, temporarily till the water level subsides, up-line movement has been suspended and in the meantime, up trains are being moved via a temporary single line through the DN line track. A few trains have been short-terminated and short-originated, including the cancellation of local passenger trains. Details will be shared shortly,” he said.&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Central government is closely monitoring the situation, adding that rescue and relief operations are being undertaken by the local administration. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have also been deployed to the site.&nbsp;Four people died due to flooding triggered by the cloudburst in Jodh Ghati, while two lost their lives in a landslide in Janglote.&nbsp;<h2>CM announces ex-gratia</h2>&nbsp;Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his grief over the loss of lives and damage due to the landslide incidents in several parts of the district and the cloudburst in Kathua. He also announced ex-gratia assistance from the CM’s Relief Fund: Rs 2 lakh for each deceased; Rs 1 lakh for those severely injured; Rs 50,000 for minor injuries; Rs 1 lakh for fully damaged houses; Rs 50,000 for severely damaged houses; Rs 25,000 for partially damaged houses. &nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Central government is closely monitoring the situation, adding that rescue and relief operations are being undertaken by the local administration. 

At least seven people were killed, while several others were injured in two incidents of cloudburst and landslide in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. Following the cloudburst, the Rail operations in certain sections were affected, causing temporary disruptions due to heavy rainfall. The authorities are taking necessary measures to restore normalcy in the area while ensuring safety. Uchit Singhal, Sr DCM Jammu Division of Northern Railway, said in a statement that heavy rains have resulted in water going beyond the danger level at Bridge-43 between Kathua and Budhi. As a result, the train movement on the up line has been temporarily suspended, and up trains are being operated via a temporary single line on the down line track. “Multiple calls are being received with respect to track damage. It is to clarify that due to heavy rains, water is flowing above the danger level through Br-43 between Kathua and Budhi. In the wake of this, temporarily till the water level subsides, up-line movement has been suspended and in the meantime, up trains are being moved via a temporary single line through the DN line track. A few trains have been short-terminated and short-originated, including the cancellation of local passenger trains. Details will be shared shortly,” he said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Central government is closely monitoring the situation, adding that rescue and relief operations are being undertaken by the local administration. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have also been deployed to the site. Four people died due to flooding triggered by the cloudburst in Jodh Ghati, while two lost their lives in a landslide in Janglote. CM announces ex-gratia Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his grief over the loss of lives and damage due to the landslide incidents in several parts of the district and the cloudburst in Kathua. He also announced ex-gratia assistance from the CM’s Relief Fund: Rs 2 lakh for each deceased; Rs 1 lakh for those severely injured; Rs 50,000 for minor injuries; Rs 1 lakh for fully damaged houses; Rs 50,000 for severely damaged houses; Rs 25,000 for partially damaged houses.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Central government is closely monitoring the situation, adding that rescue and relief operations are being undertaken by the local administration.&nbsp;

Kathua cloudburst: Railway operations affected after bridge floods; J&K CM announces ex-gratia

At least 60 people have been killed after a cloudburst triggered flash floods in Chasoti village of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district on Thursday (Aug 14). The disaster struck along the Machail Mata Yatra route, sweeping away yatris and residents and leaving behind widespread destruction. The Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, local police and the district administration are carrying out joint rescue operations. J&amp;K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced ex-gratia relief for the victims.<h2>Rescue operation underway</h2>Citing sources, ANI news agency reports that the Indian Air Force has been put on standby, as the Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, local police and the district administration carry out the rescue operation. Two Mi-17 helicopters and one Advanced Light Helicopter have also been kept at the ready in Jammu and Udhampur for possible deployment.In a statement, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday (Aug 15) confirmed that 60 bodies had been recovered. "Around 60 bodies have been found. The number of missing persons is being assessed. After the rescue and relief operation concludes, we will inquire whether the Administration could have taken any preventive steps when the Met Department had issued a warning and also advised people not to venture out if not needed. The rescue operation by the Army, NDRF, SDRF, Police, and Administration is underway. Workers of different political parties are also working on the ground," he told reporters.After visiting the cloudburst-affected areas, Abdullah announced an ex-gratia relief from the CM's Relief Fund. He announced aid of ₹2 lakh for families of the deceased, ₹1 lakh for severely injured, ₹50,000 for minor injuries, ₹1 lakh for fully damaged structures, ₹50,000 for severely damaged structures and ₹25,000 for partially damaged structures.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chief Minister visited the cloudburst affected areas of Kishtwar today and met affected families. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and damage and said the Government stands firmly with the people in this hour of grief. As a mark of solidarity and immediate succor,… <a href="https://t.co/CjUJPPIqfX">pic.twitter.com/CjUJPPIqfX</a>&mdash; Office of Chief Minister, J&amp;K (@CM_JnK) <a href="https://twitter.com/CM_JnK/status/1956624767827808291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Abdullah visited Chasoti to review the damage and was briefed by Army officials. Wearing a VR headset, he surveyed the destruction virtually and assured that immediate relief would be provided. Union Minister Jitendra Singh also reached the site late Friday to take stock of the situation.On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with those hit by recent natural disasters. "Nature is testing us...Over the past few days, we have been facing natural disasters, landslides, cloudbursts, and many other calamities. Our sympathies are with the affected people," he said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kishtwar-cloudburst-death-toll-mounts-to-60-hundreds-injured-1755251922715/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/kishtwar-cloudburst-death-toll-mounts-to-60-hundreds-injured-1755251922715/embed</a>&nbsp;

At least 60 people were killed in a cloudburst-triggered flash flood in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, hitting the Machail Mata Yatra route. A rescue operation by the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities is underway.

At least 60 people have been killed after a cloudburst triggered flash floods in Chasoti village of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district on Thursday (Aug 14). The disaster struck along the Machail Mata Yatra route, sweeping away yatris and residents and leaving behind widespread destruction. The Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, local police and the district administration are carrying out joint rescue operations. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced ex-gratia relief for the victims. Rescue operation underway Citing sources, ANI news agency reports that the Indian Air Force has been put on standby, as the Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, local police and the district administration carry out the rescue operation. Two Mi-17 helicopters and one Advanced Light Helicopter have also been kept at the ready in Jammu and Udhampur for possible deployment. In a statement, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday (Aug 15) confirmed that 60 bodies had been recovered. "Around 60 bodies have been found. The number of missing persons is being assessed. After the rescue and relief operation concludes, we will inquire whether the Administration could have taken any preventive steps when the Met Department had issued a warning and also advised people not to venture out if not needed. The rescue operation by the Army, NDRF, SDRF, Police, and Administration is underway. Workers of different political parties are also working on the ground," he told reporters. After visiting the cloudburst-affected areas, Abdullah announced an ex-gratia relief from the CM's Relief Fund. He announced aid of ₹2 lakh for families of the deceased, ₹1 lakh for severely injured, ₹50,000 for minor injuries, ₹1 lakh for fully damaged structures, ₹50,000 for severely damaged structures and ₹25,000 for partially damaged structures.

At least 60 people were killed in a cloudburst-triggered flash flood in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, hitting the Machail Mata Yatra route. A rescue operation by the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities is underway.

J&K cloudburst kills at least 60 in Kishtwar's Chasoti village, rescue ops underway; CM announces ex-gratia aid

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah today hit out at the centre for delaying the restoration of the statehood for the Union Territory. He threatened to launch a door-to-door signature campaign across all 90 constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir. He said he will do it before the next Supreme Court hearing scheduled in 8 weeks.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-2025-pm-modi-warns-of-bid-to-change-india-s-demography-1755240245088/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-2025-pm-modi-warns-of-bid-to-change-india-s-demography-1755240245088/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;While delivering his Independence Day speech at Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium, Omar Abdullah said that ''restoring statehood is crucial for the prosperity and progress of Jammu and Kashmir. I will not stop pressing for statehood, as it is the issue of everyone here.”&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Omar Abdullah, the signature campaign will mean going from door to door to every household in all the constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir and Collect the signatures. He said he along with all his MLAs and Ministers would be visiting people's houses to get the signatures. “The time has come to move beyond writing letters. We will engage directly with the people and present their voices to the Centre and relevant authorities,” Omar said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-terror-attack-dg-nia-takes-stock-of-investigation-in-pahalgam-9021702">J&amp;K terror attack: DG NIA takes stock of investigation in Pahalgam</a>&nbsp;This was the first Independence Day celebration of an elected government after the abrogation of Article 370. He said a lot has changed in the last 6 years. “Much has changed since I last spoke as the Chief Minister of a state. Today, I stand here as the Chief Minister of a Union Territory. Our special status, flag, and constitution have all been taken away, and now even statehood seems elusive.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/security-on-high-alert-across-jk-ahead-of-independence-day-celebrations-1755159144487">Security on high alert across JK ahead of Independence Day celebrations</a>&nbsp;Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's remarks come in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that linked the restoration of statehood to the current ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The apex court had said that incidents like the recent Pahalgam attack cannot be overlooked while considering pleas for statehood restoration. The Supreme Court has also sought a response from the Centre within eight weeks regarding this matter. &nbsp;

J&K CM Omar Abdullah threatened to launch a door-to-door signature campaign across all 90 constituencies of the UT, he said he would do so before the next Supreme Court hearing.

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah today hit out at the centre for delaying the restoration of the statehood for the Union Territory. He threatened to launch a door-to-door signature campaign across all 90 constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir. He said he will do it before the next Supreme Court hearing scheduled in 8 weeks. https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-2025-pm-modi-warns-of-bid-to-change-india-s-demography-1755240245088/embed While delivering his Independence Day speech at Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium, Omar Abdullah said that ''restoring statehood is crucial for the prosperity and progress of Jammu and Kashmir. I will not stop pressing for statehood, as it is the issue of everyone here.” According to Omar Abdullah, the signature campaign will mean going from door to door to every household in all the constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir and Collect the signatures. He said he along with all his MLAs and Ministers would be visiting people's houses to get the signatures. “The time has come to move beyond writing letters. We will engage directly with the people and present their voices to the Centre and relevant authorities,” Omar said. Also read: J&K terror attack: DG NIA takes stock of investigation in Pahalgam This was the first Independence Day celebration of an elected government after the abrogation of Article 370. He said a lot has changed in the last 6 years. “Much has changed since I last spoke as the Chief Minister of a state. Today, I stand here as the Chief Minister of a Union Territory. Our special status, flag, and constitution have all been taken away, and now even statehood seems elusive.” Also read: Security on high alert across JK ahead of Independence Day celebrations Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's remarks come in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that linked the restoration of statehood to the current ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The apex court had said that incidents like the recent Pahalgam attack cannot be overlooked while considering pleas for statehood restoration. The Supreme Court has also sought a response from the Centre within eight weeks regarding this matter.

J&amp;K CM Omar Abdullah threatened to launch a door-to-door signature campaign across all 90 constituencies of the UT, he said he would do so before the next Supreme Court hearing.

J&K CM Omar Abdullah hits out at centre, announces to launch signature campaign for restoration of statehood

Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah today confirmed that 60 people have been killed while over 100 have been injured in the Kishtwar cloudburst incident. According to the Chief Minister, Dozens of people are still missing in the area.&nbsp;NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, and Jammu and Kashmir Police are carrying out a massive relief and rescue operation in the area. The civil administration, along with the civilian population, has also reached the spot and helped in the relief operation. Omar Abdullah has also sought an investigation into the incident, saying there was already a weather advisory in place across the region.Omar also received a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and took a review of the relief and rescue operation in the Kishtwar area.&nbsp;“I just received a call from Hon PM @narendramodi Sb. I briefed him about the situation in Kishtwar &amp; the steps being taken by the administration. My government &amp; the people hit by this tragic cloudburst are grateful for his support &amp; all the assistance provided by the Union Government,” said Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;The Omar Abdullah government today had decided that no cultural events or At home High Tea will be hosted anywhere in the Union Territory. At Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium, Omar Abdullah presided over the Independence Day function and only hoisted the National Flag and March Past.&nbsp;The central government has spoken to the LG of Jammu and Kashmir regarding any help required for the relief and rescue operation. “Rescue &amp; Relief Operations at Chashoti are in full swing. Men &amp; machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed. Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue &amp; relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance. I want to assure all the affected families that the Govt stands shoulder to shoulder with them in this hour of crisis. The Air Force has also been alerted for evacuation. I am constantly monitoring the situation,” LG said.&nbsp;The Lieutenant Governor is constantly monitoring the situation. He has directed the officials of Civil Administration, Police, Army, NDRF and State Disaster Response Forces to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected persons.&nbsp;The Indian Army has pushed in more soldiers for the rescue and relief in the region. The Indian Army said, “Relief operations continue in full swing. Over 5 columns of 60 personnel each and medical detachments of @Whiteknight IA, are on ground, working tirelessly in consonance with #JKP, #SDRF and other civilian agencies to save lives &amp; assist those in need. Search for missing underway with medical aid &amp; support reaching affected families. Relief operations continue.”

The Omar Abdullah government today had decided that no cultural events or At home High Tea will be hosted anywhere in the Union Territory.

Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah today confirmed that 60 people have been killed while over 100 have been injured in the Kishtwar cloudburst incident. According to the Chief Minister, Dozens of people are still missing in the area. NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, and Jammu and Kashmir Police are carrying out a massive relief and rescue operation in the area. The civil administration, along with the civilian population, has also reached the spot and helped in the relief operation. Omar Abdullah has also sought an investigation into the incident, saying there was already a weather advisory in place across the region. Omar also received a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and took a review of the relief and rescue operation in the Kishtwar area. “I just received a call from Hon PM @narendramodi Sb. I briefed him about the situation in Kishtwar & the steps being taken by the administration. My government & the people hit by this tragic cloudburst are grateful for his support & all the assistance provided by the Union Government,” said Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. The Omar Abdullah government today had decided that no cultural events or At home High Tea will be hosted anywhere in the Union Territory. At Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium, Omar Abdullah presided over the Independence Day function and only hoisted the National Flag and March Past. The central government has spoken to the LG of Jammu and Kashmir regarding any help required for the relief and rescue operation. “Rescue & Relief Operations at Chashoti are in full swing. Men & machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed. Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue & relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance. I want to assure all the affected families that the Govt stands shoulder to shoulder with them in this hour of crisis. The Air Force has also been alerted for evacuation. I am constantly monitoring the situation,” LG said. The Lieutenant Governor is constantly monitoring the situation. He has directed the officials of Civil Administration, Police, Army, NDRF and State Disaster Response Forces to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected persons. The Indian Army has pushed in more soldiers for the rescue and relief in the region. The Indian Army said, “Relief operations continue in full swing. Over 5 columns of 60 personnel each and medical detachments of @Whiteknight IA, are on ground, working tirelessly in consonance with #JKP, #SDRF and other civilian agencies to save lives & assist those in need. Search for missing underway with medical aid & support reaching affected families. Relief operations continue.”

The Omar Abdullah government today had decided that no cultural events or At home High Tea will be hosted anywhere in the Union Territory.

Kishtwar cloudburst death toll rises to 60: PM Modi calls J&K CM to take stock of situation

At least 46 people&nbsp;were killed and scores were injured after a&nbsp;cloudburst triggered flash floods&nbsp;in a village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar. At least 167 people were pulled out of the rubble in the district's Chositi village; 38 of them are in critical condition. The death toll might rise, said officials.&nbsp;The incident took place between 12 noon and 1 pm. A crowd had gathered near the Machail Mata temple for a religious event when the cloudburst occurred. The village is around 90 kilometers away from Kishtwar.&nbsp;The cloudbursts occurred&nbsp;over a community kitchen, which was reportedly packed with devotees. Several structures were washed away.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cloudburst-in-jammu-and-kashmir-s-kishtwar-triggers-flash-floods-at-least-10-feared-dead-1755161684355">Also read: Cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar triggers flash floods, over 20 feared dead</a>&nbsp;Visuals showed water carrying rubble and washing away houses, shops, and other structures.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the tragedy.&nbsp;"My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway.&nbsp;Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," the prime minister said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/uttarkashi-cloudburst-what-is-it-why-is-it-frequent-and-devastating-than-ever-climate-change-link-you-should-know-uttarakhand-himachal-rains-weather-1754464386746">Also read: What is a cloudburst and why are they more frequent and devastating than ever? The climate change connection you should know</a>&nbsp;Army, NDRF, and other agencies are carrying out the rescue and relief operation.&nbsp;LG Manoj Sinha's office said that men and machinery have been put at the site.&nbsp;"Other teams have also been rushed and briefed by the Hon'ble Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue &amp; relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance," the LG Office added.&nbsp;In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim".

At least 46 people were killed and scores were injured after a cloudburst triggered flash floods in a village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar. 

At least 46 people were killed and scores were injured after a cloudburst triggered flash floods in a village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar. At least 167 people were pulled out of the rubble in the district's Chositi village; 38 of them are in critical condition. The death toll might rise, said officials. The incident took place between 12 noon and 1 pm. A crowd had gathered near the Machail Mata temple for a religious event when the cloudburst occurred. The village is around 90 kilometers away from Kishtwar. The cloudbursts occurred over a community kitchen, which was reportedly packed with devotees. Several structures were washed away. Also read: Cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar triggers flash floods, over 20 feared dead Visuals showed water carrying rubble and washing away houses, shops, and other structures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the tragedy. "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," the prime minister said. Also read: What is a cloudburst and why are they more frequent and devastating than ever? The climate change connection you should know Army, NDRF, and other agencies are carrying out the rescue and relief operation. LG Manoj Sinha's office said that men and machinery have been put at the site. "Other teams have also been rushed and briefed by the Hon'ble Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue & relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance," the LG Office added. In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim".

Kishtwar cloudburst: PM Narendra Modi said all assistance will be provided to the authorities.

Kishtwar cloudburst death toll rises to 46; what happened during temple festival

Srinagar: On the Line of Control in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley, the brave female soldiers of the Border Security Forces (BSF) are not only enduring the harsh weather conditions but also confronting the terrorists in the region. These highly specialised female soldiers are carrying out patrolling on the border along with anti-terror operations.&nbsp;In a historic moment for the Indian Armed Forces, the Border Security Forces (BSF) deputed female soldiers to guard the Line of Control in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley in 2024. BSF had become the first armed force to post specially trained female soldiers at the LoC. These female soldiers are carrying out combat operations in the region.&nbsp;In this area, the temperatures go up to minus 20 degrees, and with an altitude of 14000 ft above sea level, these female soldiers are setting an example for the women of the country. Trained in combat, patrol, night patrol, and controlling the movement of terrorist cadres along the border areas, these female BSF soldiers are inspiring women across the country.&nbsp;For these female soldiers, it's a proud moment as they have set a path for the rest of the female soldiers to be deputed in any part or corner of the country.&nbsp;"These are very tough conditions, and it’s a very sensitive area. And till now, only men would be deputed in these high altitude areas for the protection of the borders. But now women are also being deputed here, and I am one among them, and I feel very, very proud. We get an extra four weeks of training, such as survival training, survival techniques, and to run the latest weapons. We are also trained and first given a proper acclimatization time to tackle the high altitude, low oxygen, and weather conditions," said Ruchi, Assistant Commandant, BSF.&nbsp;The BSF female squad also carries out patrolling and surveillance on the forward posts and near the fencing of the Line of Control. The northern part of the Kashmir Valley border was used actively during Operation Sindoor. This is the bordering area where the Indian Armed Forces destroyed terror camps across the border.&nbsp;The female soldiers of the Border Security Forces have gone through rigorous training in handling the latest arms and ammunition, including rifles like INSAS, AK-47, TAR, and SLR. They have also been trained to work in high altitude areas where there is less oxygen, snow-covered mountains, and minus 20 degrees.&nbsp;''I am very proud of being deputed to the LoC. It was only male soldiers who were deputed on the line of control, and now we have been given a chance to secure the borders. I am very proud of the fact that I’ve been deputed here, and I am making sure to work very efficiently. We have been provided with the best and the latest arms and ammunition. It helps us to prevent infiltration from across the border. My message to the women of the country is that we as women are securing the borders of the country, and I would want more women to join the BSF," said Garima Jatt, soldier, BSF.&nbsp;In recent times, security forces have arrested dozens of women carrying arms and ammunition, as well as narcotics from the bordering areas into the hinterland. And to curb that, these female soldiers are of great help as well. The frisking and checking of women is easier than it was for the male forces to check women along the bordering areas.

On the Line of Control in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley, the brave female soldiers of the Border Security Forces (BSF) are not only enduring the harsh weather conditions but also confronting the terrorists in the region.

Srinagar: On the Line of Control in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley, the brave female soldiers of the Border Security Forces (BSF) are not only enduring the harsh weather conditions but also confronting the terrorists in the region. These highly specialised female soldiers are carrying out patrolling on the border along with anti-terror operations. In a historic moment for the Indian Armed Forces, the Border Security Forces (BSF) deputed female soldiers to guard the Line of Control in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley in 2024. BSF had become the first armed force to post specially trained female soldiers at the LoC. These female soldiers are carrying out combat operations in the region. In this area, the temperatures go up to minus 20 degrees, and with an altitude of 14000 ft above sea level, these female soldiers are setting an example for the women of the country. Trained in combat, patrol, night patrol, and controlling the movement of terrorist cadres along the border areas, these female BSF soldiers are inspiring women across the country. For these female soldiers, it's a proud moment as they have set a path for the rest of the female soldiers to be deputed in any part or corner of the country. "These are very tough conditions, and it’s a very sensitive area. And till now, only men would be deputed in these high altitude areas for the protection of the borders. But now women are also being deputed here, and I am one among them, and I feel very, very proud. We get an extra four weeks of training, such as survival training, survival techniques, and to run the latest weapons. We are also trained and first given a proper acclimatization time to tackle the high altitude, low oxygen, and weather conditions," said Ruchi, Assistant Commandant, BSF. The BSF female squad also carries out patrolling and surveillance on the forward posts and near the fencing of the Line of Control. The northern part of the Kashmir Valley border was used actively during Operation Sindoor. This is the bordering area where the Indian Armed Forces destroyed terror camps across the border. The female soldiers of the Border Security Forces have gone through rigorous training in handling the latest arms and ammunition, including rifles like INSAS, AK-47, TAR, and SLR. They have also been trained to work in high altitude areas where there is less oxygen, snow-covered mountains, and minus 20 degrees. ''I am very proud of being deputed to the LoC. It was only male soldiers who were deputed on the line of control, and now we have been given a chance to secure the borders. I am very proud of the fact that I’ve been deputed here, and I am making sure to work very efficiently. We have been provided with the best and the latest arms and ammunition. It helps us to prevent infiltration from across the border. My message to the women of the country is that we as women are securing the borders of the country, and I would want more women to join the BSF," said Garima Jatt, soldier, BSF. In recent times, security forces have arrested dozens of women carrying arms and ammunition, as well as narcotics from the bordering areas into the hinterland. And to curb that, these female soldiers are of great help as well. The frisking and checking of women is easier than it was for the male forces to check women along the bordering areas.

These BSF women brave very tough conditions in a very sensitive area.

BSF female soldiers guard LoC, lead anti-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir

India’s Jammu and Kashmir has banned 25 books for allegedly ‘promoting secessionism and a false narrative,’ about the alleged human rights atrocities committed in the disputed region. Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory issued the order which banned prominent books by historians and academics. The most famous of the banned books is&nbsp;Azadi, by Arundhati Roy which includes essays about thousands of people allegedly killed by the Indian armed forces during conflict. The ban also includes <a href="https://www.sup.org/books/asian-studies/colonizing-kashmir">Colonizing Kashmir</a>: State-building Under Indian Occupation&nbsp;by the US-based academic Hafsa Kanjwal and Contested Lands: Israel-Palestine, Kashmir, Bosnia, Cyprus and Sri Lanka&nbsp;by Sumantra Bose.&nbsp;&nbsp;This has prompted raids of bookstores across the region to cease the banned books. The irony is that throughout history, banning a book has put the spotlight on it and granted it more readership than ever before.<h2>A Brief Historical Perspective&nbsp;</h2>Many beloved books were banned at some point of time. The english version of the Bible&nbsp;was banned by the Roman Catholic Church in 1524, as it was claimed that the text should only be read in Latin.&nbsp;Similarly, Shakespeare’s Richard II&nbsp;was banned in 1597, as it contained a scene in which the monarch is deposed from his throne, inviting the ire of Queen Elisabeth I.&nbsp;&nbsp;More recently and famously, Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses&nbsp;was banned in 1988, as Islamic clerics declared it blasphemous and copies of it were widely burnt throughout the world, including in India. Oddly, the much loved Harry Potter&nbsp;series by JK Rowling also came under fire in 2019 as some people demanded that it contained mentions of witchcraft and occult practices and thus should be banned. The war against people’s right to read has been a long and global one. But it is fraught with many in-your-face ironies.<h2>Tempting Taboos</h2>Books, once banned, become taboo and forbidden fruit and much like Adam, readers are often compelled to read these texts to see what blasphemies they hold. The Satanic Verses, once it was unbanned in India, saw people queuing up at bookstores to get a copy.More importantly, book bans might have worked in the pre-internet era. But in this digital age, nothing is truly ever banned. Books are easily pirated and downloaded off the Internet and can be read on smartphones and laptops without the country or government ever coming to know. Book bans create interest in often ordinary and previously un-noteworthy works and thus the blasphemy and seditious content finds a wider readership after the banning.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Political Overtones</h3>Just like the Kashmir book ban, banning of literature has always had political reasons. Such A Long Journey&nbsp;by Rohinton Mistry was withdrawn from the University of Mumbai’s syllabus after politician Adtiya Thackeray claimed that the books demeaned his grandfather Balasaheb Thackeray and the Marathi culture as a whole. &nbsp;Similarly, India Independent&nbsp;by Charles Bettelheim was banned in 1976 by the Indira Gandhi government for criticising the ruling party’s policies post India’s independence. Sometimes, even business interests seem to justify banning. In 1988, The Polyester Prince by Hamish McDonald was banned for allegedly being a ‘shoddy’ biography of business tycoon Dhirubai Ambani, the father of Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani.&nbsp;<h3>Don’t go down the Raj way</h3>During British rule, many books, now central to India’s freedom struggle, were banned. The Indian Struggle&nbsp;by Subhash Chandra Bose and Hind Swaraj&nbsp;by our father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, were banned as being seditious. This created quite a stir then and governments of today would do well to understand how sedition then and sedition now is essentially the same, a muzzling of contrary opinions and a silencing of dissenting voices. The right to read must be central to our society and culture. Dissenting and differing voices must be heard to avoid the creation of sycophantic echo chambers. The act of banning books, however controversial they may be, is similar to banning mirrors just because we don’t like our own faces.

India's Jammu and Kashmir has banned 25 books for 'promoting a false narrative.' But banning books never works and is like trying to ban the right to breathe. 

India’s Jammu and Kashmir has banned 25 books for allegedly ‘promoting secessionism and a false narrative,’ about the alleged human rights atrocities committed in the disputed region. Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory issued the order which banned prominent books by historians and academics. The most famous of the banned books is Azadi, by Arundhati Roy which includes essays about thousands of people allegedly killed by the Indian armed forces during conflict. The ban also includes Colonizing Kashmir: State-building Under Indian Occupation by the US-based academic Hafsa Kanjwal and Contested Lands: Israel-Palestine, Kashmir, Bosnia, Cyprus and Sri Lanka by Sumantra Bose. This has prompted raids of bookstores across the region to cease the banned books. The irony is that throughout history, banning a book has put the spotlight on it and granted it more readership than ever before. A Brief Historical Perspective Many beloved books were banned at some point of time. The english version of the Bible was banned by the Roman Catholic Church in 1524, as it was claimed that the text should only be read in Latin. Similarly, Shakespeare’s Richard II was banned in 1597, as it contained a scene in which the monarch is deposed from his throne, inviting the ire of Queen Elisabeth I. More recently and famously, Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses was banned in 1988, as Islamic clerics declared it blasphemous and copies of it were widely burnt throughout the world, including in India. Oddly, the much loved Harry Potter series by JK Rowling also came under fire in 2019 as some people demanded that it contained mentions of witchcraft and occult practices and thus should be banned. The war against people’s right to read has been a long and global one. But it is fraught with many in-your-face ironies. Tempting Taboos Books, once banned, become taboo and forbidden fruit and much like Adam, readers are often compelled to read these texts to see what blasphemies they hold. The Satanic Verses, once it was unbanned in India, saw people queuing up at bookstores to get a copy. More importantly, book bans might have worked in the pre-internet era. But in this digital age, nothing is truly ever banned. Books are easily pirated and downloaded off the Internet and can be read on smartphones and laptops without the country or government ever coming to know. Book bans create interest in often ordinary and previously un-noteworthy works and thus the blasphemy and seditious content finds a wider readership after the banning. Political Overtones Just like the Kashmir book ban, banning of literature has always had political reasons. Such A Long Journey by Rohinton Mistry was withdrawn from the University of Mumbai’s syllabus after politician Adtiya Thackeray claimed that the books demeaned his grandfather Balasaheb Thackeray and the Marathi culture as a whole. Similarly, India Independent by Charles Bettelheim was banned in 1976 by the Indira Gandhi government for criticising the ruling party’s policies post India’s independence. Sometimes, even business interests seem to justify banning. In 1988, The Polyester Prince by Hamish McDonald was banned for allegedly being a ‘shoddy’ biography of business tycoon Dhirubai Ambani, the father of Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani. Don’t go down the Raj way During British rule, many books, now central to India’s freedom struggle, were banned. The Indian Struggle by Subhash Chandra Bose and Hind Swaraj by our father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, were banned as being seditious. This created quite a stir then and governments of today would do well to understand how sedition then and sedition now is essentially the same, a muzzling of contrary opinions and a silencing of dissenting voices. The right to read must be central to our society and culture. Dissenting and differing voices must be heard to avoid the creation of sycophantic echo chambers. The act of banning books, however controversial they may be, is similar to banning mirrors just because we don’t like our own faces.

India's Jammu and Kashmir has banned 25 books for 'promoting a false narrative.' But banning books never works and is like trying to ban the right to breathe.&nbsp;

Banning books is like banning the right to breathe. It never works. Here’s why!

Indian security forces are carrying out two major anti-terror operations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. An encounter started between terrorists and security forces in the Dul area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday and continued for the second consecutive day. According to the officials, two terrorists are holed up at the operation site. Security forces also blasted one of the natural caves in the area, in which they believe that terrorists could be hiding.The Indian Army had said earlier that "Contact with Terrorists: Alert Indian Army troops, while carrying out an intelligence-based operation, have established contact with terrorists in the general area of Dul in Kishtwar in the early hours of 10 Aug 2025. Gunfire exchanged. Operation under progress, ''Forces are carrying out one more operation in South Kashmir's Kulgam district on the 11th consecutive day. On Saturday, two Indian Army soldiers were killed in the ongoing anti-terror operation called ''Operation Akhal'' in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. The operation has become one of the longest anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley ever.''Update: OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in the line of duty for the nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. The Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families. Operation continues,'' said the Indian Army.The operation is being carried out by the Indian Army, including the Para Commandos and RR, Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF. Security forces had pushed in helicopters and drones to locate hiding terrorists in the area. Forces were using high-tech surveillance equipment, including drones and thermal imaging devices, along with elite Para Special Forces brought to carry out the operation.Four anti-terror operations have been carried out by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in the last two weeks. It started with Operation Mahadev, in which three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack were neutralised by the security forces. All three Pakistani terrorists were killed in the forest area of Lidwas in DachigamOne more operation called Operation Shiv Shakti was carried out by security forces in which two terrorists were killed by security forces. These two terrorists were trying to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir via the Line of Control at the Poonch sector, and the forces foiled the bid and killed both the infiltrators. The security remains on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian forces are engaged in two major anti-terror ops in J&K — a second-day encounter in Kishtwar and the 11-day-long Operation Akhal in Kulgam, where two soldiers were killed. 

Indian security forces are carrying out two major anti-terror operations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. An encounter started between terrorists and security forces in the Dul area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday and continued for the second consecutive day. According to the officials, two terrorists are holed up at the operation site. Security forces also blasted one of the natural caves in the area, in which they believe that terrorists could be hiding. The Indian Army had said earlier that "Contact with Terrorists: Alert Indian Army troops, while carrying out an intelligence-based operation, have established contact with terrorists in the general area of Dul in Kishtwar in the early hours of 10 Aug 2025. Gunfire exchanged. Operation under progress, '' Forces are carrying out one more operation in South Kashmir's Kulgam district on the 11th consecutive day. On Saturday, two Indian Army soldiers were killed in the ongoing anti-terror operation called ''Operation Akhal'' in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. The operation has become one of the longest anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley ever. ''Update: OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in the line of duty for the nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. The Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families. Operation continues,'' said the Indian Army. The operation is being carried out by the Indian Army, including the Para Commandos and RR, Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF. Security forces had pushed in helicopters and drones to locate hiding terrorists in the area. Forces were using high-tech surveillance equipment, including drones and thermal imaging devices, along with elite Para Special Forces brought to carry out the operation. Four anti-terror operations have been carried out by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in the last two weeks. It started with Operation Mahadev, in which three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack were neutralised by the security forces. All three Pakistani terrorists were killed in the forest area of Lidwas in Dachigam One more operation called Operation Shiv Shakti was carried out by security forces in which two terrorists were killed by security forces. These two terrorists were trying to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir via the Line of Control at the Poonch sector, and the forces foiled the bid and killed both the infiltrators. The security remains on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian forces are engaged in two major anti-terror ops in J&amp;K — a second-day encounter in Kishtwar and the 11-day-long Operation Akhal in Kulgam, where two soldiers were killed.&nbsp;

Kishtwar operation continues for 2nd consecutive day, blasts at encounter site; Operation Akhal enters day 11

The Jammu and Kashmir police have started conducting inspections of bookshops and booksellers across the Jammu and Kashmir division following the ban on secessionist literature. The police conducted these inspections in various districts, including Srinagar, Sopore, and multiple areas of North Kashmir.&nbsp;In an unprecedented move, the government of Jammu and Kashmir imposed a ban on 25 books authored by famous writers, including Arundhati Roy and Islamic scholar Maulana Abul Ala Maududi. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has said that these books are promoting narratives that spread secessionist sentiment in the region.&nbsp;The government, in a notification, said that "it has come to the notice of the government that certain literature propagates false narrative and secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir. Available evidence based on investigations and credible intelligence unflinchingly indicate that a significant driver behind youth participation in violence and terrorism has been the systematic dissemination of false narratives and secessionist literature by its persistent internal circulation, often disguised as historical or political commentary, while playing a critical role in misleading the youth, glorifying terrorism and inciting violence against Indian State".&nbsp;It further added that "in the above context, 25 books have been identified that propagate false narrative and secessionism in J&amp;K and need to be declared as 'forfeited' in terms of Section 98 of Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023".&nbsp;The list of banned books includes works by prominent figures such as the late historian AG Noorani, Kashmiri journalist Anuradha Bhasin, Prominent writer Arundhati Roy, David Devdas, and Victoria Schofield.&nbsp;The youth of Kashmir Valley said that books should not be banned, but if they are promoting content that is harmful to society, it's ok to ban them.&nbsp;''The government officials are intellectuals, and if they have taken a decision to ban these books, we support them. I support them," said Nadifa Riyaz, a student.&nbsp;Some of the youngsters also said that banning big authors like Arundhati Roy and A.G. Noorani should not have been done.&nbsp;&nbsp;''The list has big authors, but at the end of the day, it's the decision of the government, but&nbsp;I would not want books to be banned," said Hina Altaf, a student.&nbsp;During the inspections, Jammu and Kashmir Police did not find these books in any of the bookshops. However, the police issued stern warnings to shopkeepers, advising them against stocking or distributing any of the prohibited books in the future.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have started conducting inspections of bookshops and booksellers across the Jammu and Kashmir division following the ban on secessionist literature. 

The Jammu and Kashmir police have started conducting inspections of bookshops and booksellers across the Jammu and Kashmir division following the ban on secessionist literature. The police conducted these inspections in various districts, including Srinagar, Sopore, and multiple areas of North Kashmir. In an unprecedented move, the government of Jammu and Kashmir imposed a ban on 25 books authored by famous writers, including Arundhati Roy and Islamic scholar Maulana Abul Ala Maududi. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has said that these books are promoting narratives that spread secessionist sentiment in the region. The government, in a notification, said that "it has come to the notice of the government that certain literature propagates false narrative and secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir. Available evidence based on investigations and credible intelligence unflinchingly indicate that a significant driver behind youth participation in violence and terrorism has been the systematic dissemination of false narratives and secessionist literature by its persistent internal circulation, often disguised as historical or political commentary, while playing a critical role in misleading the youth, glorifying terrorism and inciting violence against Indian State". It further added that "in the above context, 25 books have been identified that propagate false narrative and secessionism in J&K and need to be declared as 'forfeited' in terms of Section 98 of Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023". The list of banned books includes works by prominent figures such as the late historian AG Noorani, Kashmiri journalist Anuradha Bhasin, Prominent writer Arundhati Roy, David Devdas, and Victoria Schofield. The youth of Kashmir Valley said that books should not be banned, but if they are promoting content that is harmful to society, it's ok to ban them. ''The government officials are intellectuals, and if they have taken a decision to ban these books, we support them. I support them," said Nadifa Riyaz, a student. Some of the youngsters also said that banning big authors like Arundhati Roy and A.G. Noorani should not have been done. ''The list has big authors, but at the end of the day, it's the decision of the government, but I would not want books to be banned," said Hina Altaf, a student. During the inspections, Jammu and Kashmir Police did not find these books in any of the bookshops. However, the police issued stern warnings to shopkeepers, advising them against stocking or distributing any of the prohibited books in the future.

In an unprecedented move, the government of Jammu and Kashmir imposed a ban on 25 books authored by famous writers, including Arundhati Roy and Islamic scholar Maulana Abul Ala Maududi.

JK police inspect bookshops following the government ban on 25 books

A day after two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir, the security forces continued their anti-terror operation in the Kulgam district. According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, the encounter, which initially began on Friday between the security forces and terrorists, resumed in Kulgam’s Akhal area on Sunday.&nbsp;The overnight gunfight started after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in a forested region of Akhal in the south Kashmir district, following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-akhal-kulgam-encounter-underway-in-j-k-security-forces-neutralise-one-terrorist-breaking-news-1754100840521">Operation Akhal, Kulgam: Encounter underway in J&amp;K; Security forces neutralise one terrorist</a>&nbsp;Following an initial exchange of fire on Friday evening, the operation was paused overnight. Officials said that the perimeter was secured, and additional reinforcements were sent to the area. Later, the gunfiring resumed on Saturday morning, resulting in the killing of two terrorists.&nbsp;In a post on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said, "OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact." "One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far. Operation continues," Chinar Corps added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Update: OP AKHAL, Kulgam Intermittent and Intense fire fight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the nooze while maintaining contact. One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far. Operation continues.…&mdash; Chinar Corps🍁 - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinarcorpsIA/status/1951460461934997708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Another terrorist killed hours later</h3>The ongoing operation is being done in a joint cooperation of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police, CRPF, and the Special Operations Group (SOG).&nbsp;Later, officials confirmed that a second terrorist had been neturalised and another was injured. "We suspect one or two more terrorists are still hiding in the area. Operation is on,” senior police officer VK Birdi told NDTV.&nbsp;The operation followed after three of the terrorists who carried out the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22 were killed in encounter by security forces near Srinagar under 'Operation Mahadev'.

The operation ‘Akhal’ under a joint cooperation with the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police, CRPF, and the Special Operations Group (SOG) is underway. The perimeter has been secured, and additional reinforcements have been sent to the area. 

A day after two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir, the security forces continued their anti-terror operation in the Kulgam district. According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, the encounter, which initially began on Friday between the security forces and terrorists, resumed in Kulgam’s Akhal area on Sunday. The overnight gunfight started after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in a forested region of Akhal in the south Kashmir district, following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists. Also read: Operation Akhal, Kulgam: Encounter underway in J&K; Security forces neutralise one terrorist Following an initial exchange of fire on Friday evening, the operation was paused overnight. Officials said that the perimeter was secured, and additional reinforcements were sent to the area. Later, the gunfiring resumed on Saturday morning, resulting in the killing of two terrorists. In a post on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said, "OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact." "One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far. Operation continues," Chinar Corps added.

The operation ‘Akhal’ under a joint cooperation with the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police, CRPF, and the Special Operations Group (SOG) is underway. The perimeter has been secured, and additional reinforcements have been sent to the area.&nbsp;

Operation 'AKHAL' continues after two terrorists killed in joint operation in J&K's Kulgam — Details here

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an encounter between the security forces and terrorists is underway in Kulgam district on Saturday (Aug 2). As per news agency ANI, the encounter is taking place in the Akhal area of Kulgam district. The operation is jointly being carried out by the Special Operations Group (SOG), J&amp;K Police, Army, and CRPF. In a post on X, the Indian Army's Chinar Corps reported that while the Operation Akhal, Kulgam continues, security forces have neutralised one terrorist so far. “Intermittent and Intense fire fight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the nooze while maintaining contact, it said, adding, ”One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far."

This comes as on July 30, an encounter broke out along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir after the Indian Army troops detected suspicious movement near the border fence, said the Army's White Knight Corps. As per officials, Indian troops keeping vigil along the LoC noticed the movement of two individuals under suspicious circumstances in the general area of the Poonch sector. The individuals – suspected terrorists – upon being confronted by Indian soldiers, opened fire, prompting a swift retaliation from the Army. In a post on X, White Knight Corps stated, "White Knight Corps Contact with terrorists. Suspected movement of two individuals was observed by own troops along the fence in gen area of Poonch Sector. Gunfire exchanged." The joint anti-terror operation by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and Special Operations Group (SOG) is still in progress.

Operation Akhal, Kulgam: Encounter underway in J&K; Security forces neutralise one terrorist

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an encounter between the security forces and terrorists is underway in Kulgam district on Saturday (Aug 2). As per news agency ANI, the encounter is taking place in the Akhal area of Kulgam district. The operation is jointly being carried out by the Special Operations Group (SOG), J&K Police, Army, and CRPF. In a post on X, the Indian Army's Chinar Corps reported that while the Operation Akhal, Kulgam continues, security forces have neutralised one terrorist so far. “Intermittent and Intense fire fight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the nooze while maintaining contact, it said, adding, ”One terrorist has been neutralised by the security forces so far."

Operation Akhal, Kulgam: Encounter underway in J&amp;K; Security forces neutralise one terrorist

The pilots of a helicopter of the Indian Army's aviation wing disregarded their safety on Wednesday as they rescued a teenager stuck on an island amid a raging river in Jammu and Kashmir. Dramatic visuals&nbsp;showed the pilots dangerously lowering the helicopter almost to the level of the raging river to ensure that the boy could comfortably&nbsp;board the aircraft.&nbsp;The incident took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. The boy was stranded on an island the amidst heavily flooded Naushera Tawi river. The Indian Army was called to rescue&nbsp;the boy.&nbsp;The brave pilots, in a tricky rescue mission, lowered the helicopter to dangerous&nbsp;levels. Despite poor weather conditions, the pilots hovered the aircraft in the middle of the Naushera Tawi river on the island, where the teenager had been fighting for his life.&nbsp;The pilots exhibited exceptional skill at negotiating wire obstacles and the river in spate. They had no landing spot, and even a minor error could have proved fatal.&nbsp;However, courageously, they evacuated the boy from the island and landed safely on the bank of the river in spate.&nbsp;This act of courage carried out by the pilots was beyond their call of duty.&nbsp;The pilots belonged to the Army Aviation Corps, the youngest arm of the Indian Army. It was formed on November 1, 1989.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Amidst the raging Naushera Tawi floods, Indian Army aviation pilots bravely rescued a teenage boy stuck on an island . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Naushera?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Naushera</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajouri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajouri</a> <a href="https://t.co/EuPEFEuZiS">pic.twitter.com/EuPEFEuZiS</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1948027770048803270?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;However, courageously, they evacuated the boy from the island and landed safely on the bank of the river in spate.&nbsp;This act of courage carried out by the pilots was beyond their call of duty.&nbsp;The pilots belonged to the Army Aviation Corps, the youngest arm of the Indian Army.

The pilots of a helicopter of the Indian Army's aviation wing disregarded their safety on Wednesday as they rescued a teenager stuck on an island amid a raging river in Jammu and Kashmir. 

The pilots of a helicopter of the Indian Army's aviation wing disregarded their safety on Wednesday as they rescued a teenager stuck on an island amid a raging river in Jammu and Kashmir. Dramatic visuals showed the pilots dangerously lowering the helicopter almost to the level of the raging river to ensure that the boy could comfortably board the aircraft. The incident took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. The boy was stranded on an island the amidst heavily flooded Naushera Tawi river. The Indian Army was called to rescue the boy. The brave pilots, in a tricky rescue mission, lowered the helicopter to dangerous levels. Despite poor weather conditions, the pilots hovered the aircraft in the middle of the Naushera Tawi river on the island, where the teenager had been fighting for his life. The pilots exhibited exceptional skill at negotiating wire obstacles and the river in spate. They had no landing spot, and even a minor error could have proved fatal. However, courageously, they evacuated the boy from the island and landed safely on the bank of the river in spate. This act of courage carried out by the pilots was beyond their call of duty. The pilots belonged to the Army Aviation Corps, the youngest arm of the Indian Army. It was formed on November 1, 1989.

The boy was stranded on an island the amidst heavily flooded Naushera Tawi river.

Watch: Army helicopter pilots' daring rescue mission over raging Jammu and Kashmir river

An earthquake was reported in the Jammu and Kashmir region with a magnitude of 3.6 Richter scale and a depth of 9 kilometres. There had been no report of life loss or property damage. The earthquake reportedly hit in the evening at 7:36 pm at a latitude of 32.96 degrees north and a longitude of 74.71 degrees east.&nbsp;

An earthquake was reported in the Jammu and Kashmir region with a magnitude of 3.6 Richter and a depth of 9 kilometres.

An earthquake was reported in the Jammu and Kashmir region with a magnitude of 3.6 Richter scale and a depth of 9 kilometres. There had been no report of life loss or property damage. The earthquake reportedly hit in the evening at 7:36 pm at a latitude of 32.96 degrees north and a longitude of 74.71 degrees east.

An earthquake was reported in the Jammu and Kashmir region with a magnitude of 3.6 Richter and a depth of 9 kilometres.

No casualties, Jammu and Kashmir hit by earthquake of 3.6 Richter

Professor G Madhavi Latha, a civil engineering expert from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, was one of the bridge important contributors.

Professor G Madhavi Latha, a civil engineering expert from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, was one of the bridge's important contributors.

17 years, no fixed blueprint: Meet Madhavi Latha, the IISc professor behind world’s tallest Chenab bridge

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two pioneering railway bridges in Jammu &amp; Kashmir- the Anji bridge which is India's first cable-stayed rail bridge the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge. Both of these structures form part of the ambitious 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) which is designed to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through an all-weather railway corridor.&nbsp;While the Chenab Bridge, standing 359 metres above the riverbed has already garnered attention for its height and engineering, the Anji Khad Bridge marks a different kind of milestone. Spanning about 725 metres across the deep Anji river valley which is a tributary of the Chenab river, the bridge is the country’s first railway bridge supported entirely by cable-stayed technology. It is located about 80 km from Jammu city in Reasi district and is built over geologically complex Himalayan terrain. It connects the towns of Katra and Raesi. The bridge is engineered to withstand seismic activity and high wind speeds of up to 213 km/h.<h2>A First of Its Kind</h2>&nbsp;One of the many interesting features of the bridge is that the Anji Khad Bridge features an inverted Y-shaped pylon that rises 193 metres from its foundation. It additionally supports 96 cables of varying lengths that stabilise the bridge deck. Another testament of its advanced design is that the bridge is about 2,830 feet long and stands 1,086 feet above the ground. The total cable length runs over 653 kilometres and it additionally includes a 12.3-foot service road and footpaths on either side. The bridge is built to handle extreme weather conditions and trains travelling at speeds of up to 100 km/h will use this route, significantly improving transit through the region.&nbsp;<h2>Built for Challenging Terrain</h2>&nbsp;Designed with seismic resilience in mind, the bridge used over 8,200 metric tonnes of structural steel and was completed in just 11 months. It is also furnished with a sensor-based, integrated health monitoring system to track structural behaviour throughout its life cycle. The location of the bridge, in the young, fragile folds of the Himalayas posed a serious challenge in its engineering making the project one of the most technically demanding in Indian Railways’ history.&nbsp;It is hence, justified to say that both the Chenab and Anji bridges are not just feats of design but, strategic assets. Together, they close a crucial gap in the Kashmir railway link, enhancing movement for civilians, defence forces and trade. Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah and railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were also present at the event.

The Anji Khad bridge spans the Anji River, a tributary of the Chenab River. It connects the towns of Katra and Reasi. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two pioneering railway bridges in Jammu & Kashmir- the Anji bridge which is India's first cable-stayed rail bridge the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge. Both of these structures form part of the ambitious 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) which is designed to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through an all-weather railway corridor. While the Chenab Bridge, standing 359 metres above the riverbed has already garnered attention for its height and engineering, the Anji Khad Bridge marks a different kind of milestone. Spanning about 725 metres across the deep Anji river valley which is a tributary of the Chenab river, the bridge is the country’s first railway bridge supported entirely by cable-stayed technology. It is located about 80 km from Jammu city in Reasi district and is built over geologically complex Himalayan terrain. It connects the towns of Katra and Raesi. The bridge is engineered to withstand seismic activity and high wind speeds of up to 213 km/h. A First of Its Kind One of the many interesting features of the bridge is that the Anji Khad Bridge features an inverted Y-shaped pylon that rises 193 metres from its foundation. It additionally supports 96 cables of varying lengths that stabilise the bridge deck. Another testament of its advanced design is that the bridge is about 2,830 feet long and stands 1,086 feet above the ground. The total cable length runs over 653 kilometres and it additionally includes a 12.3-foot service road and footpaths on either side. The bridge is built to handle extreme weather conditions and trains travelling at speeds of up to 100 km/h will use this route, significantly improving transit through the region. Built for Challenging Terrain Designed with seismic resilience in mind, the bridge used over 8,200 metric tonnes of structural steel and was completed in just 11 months. It is also furnished with a sensor-based, integrated health monitoring system to track structural behaviour throughout its life cycle. The location of the bridge, in the young, fragile folds of the Himalayas posed a serious challenge in its engineering making the project one of the most technically demanding in Indian Railways’ history. It is hence, justified to say that both the Chenab and Anji bridges are not just feats of design but, strategic assets. Together, they close a crucial gap in the Kashmir railway link, enhancing movement for civilians, defence forces and trade. Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah and railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were also present at the event.

The Anji Khad bridge spans the Anji River, a tributary of the Chenab River. It connects the towns of Katra and Reasi.&nbsp;

'India's first cable-stayed rail link': All about J&K's Anji Khad bridge inaugurated by PM Modi

In the last few years, Jammu&Kashmir have become a hub for drugs. The recent studies revealed that Jammu and Kashmir have 0.6 million people involved in drug-related issues.

India: Heroin, Cocaine and Brown Sugar easily available in Jammu and Kashmi

In a significant development, the Indian army chief is on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir for 2 days. This comes after at least 11 people have lost their lives in India Union Territory.

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists target laborers in the latest attack

A group of foreign envoys are expected to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the 17th of this month. The visit, which is still in the planning stage, will focus on the progress made on the ground in the aftermath of the removal of special status for the region in 2019.

This will be the 3rd such visit of envoys to the Union Territory in the last one year. India had taken a group in January, and another group in February of 2020. During that visit, the envoys had met locals, as well as top administrative leadership of the union territory.

The visit comes even as 4G speed internet has been restored in the union territory. The internet was restored after a gap of 18 months. The decision was welcomed by the U.S. State Department.

The U.S. State Department in a tweet said, "We welcome the resumption of 4G mobile internet in India's Jammu &amp; Kashmir. This marks an important step for local residents and we look forward to continued political &amp; economic progress to restore normalcy in J&amp;K."

The focus will also be on how grassroots democracy has taken root in the union territory particularly after the recent DDC elections.

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We welcome the resumption of 4G mobile internet in India's Jammu &amp; Kashmir. This marks an important step for local residents and we look forward to continued political &amp; economic progress to restore normalcy in J&amp;K.
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In the last one year, India has been reaching out to the diplomatic community in Delhi to showcase its Covid action plan as well. Last year more than 50 envoys based in Delhi were taken to the southern Indian city of Hyderabad to show India's pharma plants where Covid vaccines are being manufactured. New Delhi has invited the diplomatic community to take part in its vaccination program as well and has got an enthusiastic response. 3000 foreign diplomats and their families have accepted the invite to get vaccinated. 
&nbsp;

A group of foreign envoys are expected to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the 17th of this month. The visit, which is still in the planning stage, will focus on the progress made on the ground in the aftermath of the removal of special status for the region in 2019.

A group of foreign envoys are expected to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the 17th of this month. The visit, which is still in the planning stage, will focus on the progress made on the ground in the aftermath of the removal of special status for the region in 2019. This will be the 3rd such visit of envoys to the Union Territory in the last one year. India had taken a group in January, and another group in February of 2020. During that visit, the envoys had met locals, as well as top administrative leadership of the union territory. The visit comes even as 4G speed internet has been restored in the union territory. The internet was restored after a gap of 18 months. The decision was welcomed by the U.S. State Department. The U.S. State Department in a tweet said, "We welcome the resumption of 4G mobile internet in India's Jammu & Kashmir. This marks an important step for local residents and we look forward to continued political & economic progress to restore normalcy in J&K." The focus will also be on how grassroots democracy has taken root in the union territory particularly after the recent DDC elections. We welcome the resumption of 4G mobile internet in India's Jammu & Kashmir. This marks an important step for local residents and we look forward to continued political & economic progress to restore normalcy in J&K. — State_SCA (@State_SCA) February 10, 2021 × In the last one year, India has been reaching out to the diplomatic community in Delhi to showcase its Covid action plan as well. Last year more than 50 envoys based in Delhi were taken to the southern Indian city of Hyderabad to show India's pharma plants where Covid vaccines are being manufactured. New Delhi has invited the diplomatic community to take part in its vaccination program as well and has got an enthusiastic response. 3000 foreign diplomats and their families have accepted the invite to get vaccinated.

As 4G gets restored, foreign envoys expected to visit J&K

Security forces in the Kashmir valley have said that they had input about an infiltration bid by terrorists 15 days prior to the attempt which resulted in the killings of three terrorists and four forces personnel including a Capitan rank officer in Machil sector along the Line of Control in north Kashmir.&nbsp;

Border Security forces today paid tribute to the slain Constable in Budgam and laid a wreath while remembering the sacrifice made by him while fighting terrorists. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-woman-killed-crpf-officer-injured-in-srinagar-encounter-328064">Three terrorists, woman killed, CRPF officer injured in Srinagar encounter</a>&nbsp;

Speaking to media after the wreath-laying ceremony of the slain BSF constable who was killed during the initial exchange of fire with the terrorists, Additional Director General of BSF Surinder Pawar said "a patrolling party spotted three shadows after which an exchange of fire took place. Constable Sudhir Kumar was leading from the front and got injured while facing the terrorist."

ADG said that then army reinforcement was called in and a hunt for the other two terrorists was launched. "In the exchange of fire with the terrorists, Captain Ashutosh Kumar and two other army men were martyred."

When asked about the status of infiltration this year, he said only 25 to 30 terrorists managed to enter the valley compared to 135 to 140 last year. &nbsp;"The operation is still on and we are sanitizing the area," he said adding that the troops are alert and ready to foil any more attempts.&nbsp;

Security forces in the Kashmir valley have said that they had input about an infiltration bid by terrorists 15 days prior to the attempt which resulted in the killings of three terrorists and four forces personnel including a Capitan rank officer in Machil sector along the Line of Control in north Kashmir.

Security forces in the Kashmir valley have said that they had input about an infiltration bid by terrorists 15 days prior to the attempt which resulted in the killings of three terrorists and four forces personnel including a Capitan rank officer in Machil sector along the Line of Control in north Kashmir. Border Security forces today paid tribute to the slain Constable in Budgam and laid a wreath while remembering the sacrifice made by him while fighting terrorists. Also read | Three terrorists, woman killed, CRPF officer injured in Srinagar encounter Speaking to media after the wreath-laying ceremony of the slain BSF constable who was killed during the initial exchange of fire with the terrorists, Additional Director General of BSF Surinder Pawar said "a patrolling party spotted three shadows after which an exchange of fire took place. Constable Sudhir Kumar was leading from the front and got injured while facing the terrorist." ADG said that then army reinforcement was called in and a hunt for the other two terrorists was launched. "In the exchange of fire with the terrorists, Captain Ashutosh Kumar and two other army men were martyred." When asked about the status of infiltration this year, he said only 25 to 30 terrorists managed to enter the valley compared to 135 to 140 last year. "The operation is still on and we are sanitizing the area," he said adding that the troops are alert and ready to foil any more attempts.

Operation on LoC in Machil sector still on, forces had inputs 15 days back: ADG BSF

Glaciers in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are melting at a "significant" rate, according to a first-of-its-kind study which used satellite data to find that over 1,200 glaciers in the Himalayan region saw an annual reduction in mass of 35 centimetres (cm) on average between 2000 and 2012.

The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, was carried over the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh region, including areas across the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC), and in all 12,243 glaciers were studied for thickness and mass changes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmirs-historical-mughal-garden-to-be-included-into-unesco-world-heritage-list-325776" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir's historical Mughal garden to be included into UNESCO world heritage list</a>

"In general, it was observed that the glaciers in the Pir Panjal range are melting at the higher rate,&nbsp;more than one metre per year, while as the glaciers in the Karakoram range are melting relatively at slower rate, around 10 cms per year," noted Professor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, corresponding author of the study.

"Some glaciers are even advancing or stable in the Karakoram range. In other mountain ranges like the Greater Himalayan range, Zanaskar range, Shamabari range, Leh ranges, the glaciers are undoubtedly melting but the rate of melting is variable," Romshoo, Dean of Research at the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, told PTI.

The research team, including Tariq Abdullah and Irfan Rashid, both from Geoinformatics Department, University of Kashmir, used two satellite observations made in 2000 by NASA and in 2012 by German space agency DLR.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorist-associates-of-let-arrested-in-jks-bandipora-325964" hreflang="en">Three terrorist associates of LeT arrested in J&amp;K's Bandipora</a>

They employed this data to determine the glacier thickness changes over the entire Upper Indus Basin, comprising of over 12,000 glaciers.

"There is no such data (satellite observations) available in the world after 2012. This is a first of its kind study in the region and provides a very good idea about what is happening to the glaciers in the region," Romshoo explained.

Till date, he said, only six to seven glaciers have been studied in the region for thickness and glacial mass changes using field observations.

The researchers noted that while glacier melting is a continuous process and the shrinkage in area of the glaciers is being estimated routinely, thickness and mass changes are not possible always because of the lack of satellite data.

There are also limitations and challenges associated with field based studies in the mountainous Himalaya, they said.

The team noted that during one decade of observation in this study, the region has lost about 70.32 gigatonne of glacier mass, which is "quite significant."

Romshoo noted that the continued melting of glaciers will have significant adverse impacts on every sector of economy in the region and beyond, particularly in the downstream areas which are already water scarce.

"It is pertinent to mention here that the waters emanating from this region are shared between the neighbouring countries in the south Asia," the professor at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Kashmir, added.

The knowledge generated about the glacier thickness changes across different mountain ranges in the data-scarce Himalayan region is vital for determining the sustainability of water resources in the south Asian region, according to the researchers.

Melting of the glaciers in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh is going to impact the water, food and energy security with the consequent adverse effect on the dependent livelihoods, they noted.

The researchers explained that the main drivers of the glacial melt in the Himalayan region are increasing temperatures and decreasing snow precipitation, resulting from greenhouse gas emissions from industrialisation and increasing use of fossil fuels the world over.

Romshoo noted that though there is "almost no industrialisation" in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Himalaya, the mountainous region is facing the brunt of climate change happening globally.

A study, published in the journal Climatic Change on July 29, found that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh may witness a temperature increase of up to 6.9 degrees Celsius by the end of the century due to climate change, warning that the glaciers in this Himalayan region could shrink by 85 per cent if the projections come true.

The latest study was conducted as part of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) research project "Centre of Excellence for glacial research in the western Himalaya."

Glaciers in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are melting at a "significant" rate, according to a first-of-its-kind study which used satellite data to find that over 1,200 glaciers in the Himalayan region saw an annual reduction in mass of 35 centimetres (cm) on average between 2000 and 2012.

Glaciers in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are melting at a "significant" rate, according to a first-of-its-kind study which used satellite data to find that over 1,200 glaciers in the Himalayan region saw an annual reduction in mass of 35 centimetres (cm) on average between 2000 and 2012. The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, was carried over the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh region, including areas across the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC), and in all 12,243 glaciers were studied for thickness and mass changes. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir's historical Mughal garden to be included into UNESCO world heritage list "In general, it was observed that the glaciers in the Pir Panjal range are melting at the higher rate, more than one metre per year, while as the glaciers in the Karakoram range are melting relatively at slower rate, around 10 cms per year," noted Professor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, corresponding author of the study. "Some glaciers are even advancing or stable in the Karakoram range. In other mountain ranges like the Greater Himalayan range, Zanaskar range, Shamabari range, Leh ranges, the glaciers are undoubtedly melting but the rate of melting is variable," Romshoo, Dean of Research at the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, told PTI. The research team, including Tariq Abdullah and Irfan Rashid, both from Geoinformatics Department, University of Kashmir, used two satellite observations made in 2000 by NASA and in 2012 by German space agency DLR. Also read: Three terrorist associates of LeT arrested in J&K's Bandipora They employed this data to determine the glacier thickness changes over the entire Upper Indus Basin, comprising of over 12,000 glaciers. "There is no such data (satellite observations) available in the world after 2012. This is a first of its kind study in the region and provides a very good idea about what is happening to the glaciers in the region," Romshoo explained. Till date, he said, only six to seven glaciers have been studied in the region for thickness and glacial mass changes using field observations. The researchers noted that while glacier melting is a continuous process and the shrinkage in area of the glaciers is being estimated routinely, thickness and mass changes are not possible always because of the lack of satellite data. There are also limitations and challenges associated with field based studies in the mountainous Himalaya, they said. The team noted that during one decade of observation in this study, the region has lost about 70.32 gigatonne of glacier mass, which is "quite significant." Romshoo noted that the continued melting of glaciers will have significant adverse impacts on every sector of economy in the region and beyond, particularly in the downstream areas which are already water scarce. "It is pertinent to mention here that the waters emanating from this region are shared between the neighbouring countries in the south Asia," the professor at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Kashmir, added. The knowledge generated about the glacier thickness changes across different mountain ranges in the data-scarce Himalayan region is vital for determining the sustainability of water resources in the south Asian region, according to the researchers. Melting of the glaciers in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh is going to impact the water, food and energy security with the consequent adverse effect on the dependent livelihoods, they noted. The researchers explained that the main drivers of the glacial melt in the Himalayan region are increasing temperatures and decreasing snow precipitation, resulting from greenhouse gas emissions from industrialisation and increasing use of fossil fuels the world over. Romshoo noted that though there is "almost no industrialisation" in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Himalaya, the mountainous region is facing the brunt of climate change happening globally. A study, published in the journal Climatic Change on July 29, found that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh may witness a temperature increase of up to 6.9 degrees Celsius by the end of the century due to climate change, warning that the glaciers in this Himalayan region could shrink by 85 per cent if the projections come true. The latest study was conducted as part of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) research project "Centre of Excellence for glacial research in the western Himalaya."

Glaciers in Jammu and Kashmir melting at 'significant' rate: Study

Cherry growers in Kashmir have demanded minimum support price (MSP) as despite the high yield this year farmers are facing massive losses due to limited demand amid the coronavirus pandemic. Watch report.

COVID-19 casts shadow over cherry industry in J&K: Farmers demand minimum support price for govt