A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The officer was from the Corps of Engineers. According to reports, the IED was planted around 1.5 kilometres inside the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district's Naushera sector.&nbsp;

Major Chitresh Singh Bisht, leading the Bomb Disposal Team in Naushera sector, defused one of the mines successfully. While neutralizing another mine, the device got activated. The officer suffered grievous injuries and succumbed to them.

Major Chitresh Singh Bisht hailed from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. During the sanitisation of track in Naushera Sector, mines were detected on the track, ANI reported.&nbsp;

The incident comes just a couple of days after a ghastly terror attack killed over 40 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The attack is billed as the worst terror attack on security forces in the state.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

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The Major-rank army officer was killed while defusing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which had been planted by terrorists. The officer is from the Corps of Engineers. The IED was planted 1.5 kms inside the Line of Control in the Naushera sector, Rajouri district, in J&amp;K <a href="https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR">https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR</a>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">The meeting chaired by Home Minister</a> Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

"India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

Sources told WION that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack</a> in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit.&nbsp;

Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained Adil Ahmad Dar, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday.

A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported.

A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported. The officer was from the Corps of Engineers. According to reports, the IED was planted around 1.5 kilometres inside the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district's Naushera sector. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht, leading the Bomb Disposal Team in Naushera sector, defused one of the mines successfully. While neutralizing another mine, the device got activated. The officer suffered grievous injuries and succumbed to them. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht hailed from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. During the sanitisation of track in Naushera Sector, mines were detected on the track, ANI reported. The incident comes just a couple of days after a ghastly terror attack killed over 40 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The attack is billed as the worst terror attack on security forces in the state. Meanwhile, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The Major-rank army officer was killed while defusing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which had been planted by terrorists. The officer is from the Corps of Engineers. The IED was planted 1.5 kms inside the Line of Control in the Naushera sector, Rajouri district, in J&K https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2019 × The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. "India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated. Sources told WION that Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit. Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained Adil Ahmad Dar, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday.

J&K: Army officer killed while defusing IED planted by terrorists in Rajouri

India’s diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Pulwama terror attack</a>. Here's taking a quick look at some of the major diplomatic developments so far.&nbsp;

1. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">India briefed envoys</a> of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Central Asia, ASEAN, Africa and non-permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC). New Delhi briefed 25 envoys on Friday.&nbsp;

2. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told envoys that Pakistan has been using terrorism as an instrument of its state policy. One envoy on the condition of anonymity told WION, "this time it is much more than statements".

3. Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ajay Bisaria, was at the MEA for over an hour and said, "I don't know for how many days but I am here for a while".

4. Pak foreign office tweeted, "Kashmiri students being systemically targeted in India". Top government sources slammed Islamabad, told WION, "Pakistan appears to be floundering. Their statements, evidenced by this last one, appear to be getting more ridiculous by the hour". Till now, neither PM Imran Khan nor FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi has condemned the attack.

5. US NSA John Bolton said Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-us-supports-indias-right-to-self-defence-offers-help-to-bring-perpetrators-to-justice-197721">Bolton called NSA Doval and supported India's right to self-defence</a> against cross-border terrorism. Washington offered all "assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice," MEA noted.

6. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meeting to take place from February 17 to 22. Pakistan was greylisted last year due to inaction on terror front. India to raise the issue of terror emanating from Pakistan.&nbsp;

New Delhi also decided to give a dossier to FATF to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting.&nbsp;

7. Special declaration on Pulwama attacks expected by President of Argentina Mauricio Macri during his India visit starting Sunday.

8. India raised customs duty on all <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/customs-duty-on-all-goods-imported-from-pakistan-hiked-to-200-arun-jaitley-197808">goods imported from Pakistan to 200 per cent</a> with immediate effect on Saturday. The move came a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan.

9. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iran-general-says-pakistan-backs-group-behind-suicide-bomb-197757">Iran came hard on Pakistan</a> after a terror attack on Wednesday killed 27 Revolutionary Guard in south-eastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. "If Pakistan does not carry out its responsibilities, Iran reserves the right to confront threats on its borders", Revolutionary Guards commander Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari was quoted by the state media.

Around 50 countries have condemned the terror attacks so far, including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, EU, Australia, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Iran, among other nations.&nbsp;

10. Saudi Crown prince postponed his Pakistan visit by a day. Will be in the country from February 17 to 18. Was initially supposed to be in the country from February 16 to 17.&nbsp;

India’s diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday over Pulwama terror attack. Here's taking a quick look at some of the major diplomatic developments so far.

India’s diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday over Pulwama terror attack. Here's taking a quick look at some of the major diplomatic developments so far. 1. India briefed envoys of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Central Asia, ASEAN, Africa and non-permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC). New Delhi briefed 25 envoys on Friday. 2. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told envoys that Pakistan has been using terrorism as an instrument of its state policy. One envoy on the condition of anonymity told WION, "this time it is much more than statements". 3. Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ajay Bisaria, was at the MEA for over an hour and said, "I don't know for how many days but I am here for a while". 4. Pak foreign office tweeted, "Kashmiri students being systemically targeted in India". Top government sources slammed Islamabad, told WION, "Pakistan appears to be floundering. Their statements, evidenced by this last one, appear to be getting more ridiculous by the hour". Till now, neither PM Imran Khan nor FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi has condemned the attack. 5. US NSA John Bolton said Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory. Bolton called NSA Doval and supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. Washington offered all "assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice," MEA noted. 6. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meeting to take place from February 17 to 22. Pakistan was greylisted last year due to inaction on terror front. India to raise the issue of terror emanating from Pakistan. New Delhi also decided to give a dossier to FATF to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting. 7. Special declaration on Pulwama attacks expected by President of Argentina Mauricio Macri during his India visit starting Sunday. 8. India raised customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan to 200 per cent with immediate effect on Saturday. The move came a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan. 9. Iran came hard on Pakistan after a terror attack on Wednesday killed 27 Revolutionary Guard in south-eastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. "If Pakistan does not carry out its responsibilities, Iran reserves the right to confront threats on its borders", Revolutionary Guards commander Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari was quoted by the state media. Around 50 countries have condemned the terror attacks so far, including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, EU, Australia, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Iran, among other nations. 10. Saudi Crown prince postponed his Pakistan visit by a day. Will be in the country from February 17 to 18. Was initially supposed to be in the country from February 16 to 17.

Pulwama terror attack: Top 10 diplomatic developments 

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack.

Among the deceased, four CRPF jawans--Kulwinder Singh, Jaimal Singh, Sukhjinder Singh and Maninder Singhand--were from Punjab.

"Even though we can never compensate the loss of these brave sons of Punjab, my government has announced a compensation of Rs 12 lakh and a job to next of kin of the martyrs belonging to Punjab. I stand by the families of these brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in #Pulwama," the Chief Minister tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces compensation of Rs 10 lakh, job to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">family</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695"> of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">deceased</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695"> soldier</a>

Around 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying them on Thursday.

The bus was extensively damaged in the blast.

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Soon after the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which is based in Pakistan and backed by Islamabad, claimed the responsibility for the attack and said it was carried out by its suicide bomber.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack. Among the deceased, four CRPF jawans--Kulwinder Singh, Jaimal Singh, Sukhjinder Singh and Maninder Singhand--were from Punjab. "Even though we can never compensate the loss of these brave sons of Punjab, my government has announced a compensation of Rs 12 lakh and a job to next of kin of the martyrs belonging to Punjab. I stand by the families of these brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in #Pulwama," the Chief Minister tweeted. Also read: Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces compensation of Rs 10 lakh, job to family of deceased soldier Around 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying them on Thursday. The bus was extensively damaged in the blast. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Soon after the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which is based in Pakistan and backed by Islamabad, claimed the responsibility for the attack and said it was carried out by its suicide bomber.

Pulwama terror attack: Punjab CM announces Rs 12 lakh ex gratia, job to next of kin of slain CRPF jawans

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-diplomacy-takes-centerstage-as-india-prepares-to-isolate-pakistan-197623">Pulwama terror attack</a>, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.

In the meeting, the Central government will brief the opposition leaders about the action being taken to deal with the situations arising out Pulwama terror attack,” sources said. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 11 am in the Parliament Library. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday also announced the withdrawal of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">most favoured nation (MFN) status</a> to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who are indulged in exporting terror to India. For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pak sponsored terrorism. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016. Masood was released by then Central government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999. India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.&nbsp;

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday. In the meeting, the Central government will brief the opposition leaders about the action being taken to deal with the situations arising out Pulwama terror attack,” sources said. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 11 am in the Parliament Library. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting. India on Friday also announced the withdrawal of most favoured nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated. The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who are indulged in exporting terror to India. For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pak sponsored terrorism. Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016. Masood was released by then Central government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999. India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.

All-party meeting today to deliberate upon Pulwama terror attack

Pulwama attack masterminds identified: Sources

India: All-party meet over 'future course of action' against terror ends

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-nia-begins-investigation-7-detained-after-raids-197621">Pulwama terror attack</a>.

Das also assured a job to the kin of the martyr.

The chief minister while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers, said, "Martyrs don't die, they attain heaven. Our government will give Rs 10 lakh and a job to the kin of Vijay Soreng, the jawaan from Jharkhand who got martyred in Pulwama."

In the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suspected suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad in Pulwama district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.

The convoy of 78 buses, in which around 2500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar, came under attack at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora.

Earlier in September 2016, an Army camp was stormed by terrorists in Uri, killing 19 soldiers.

Prior to that, 28 BSF personnel were killed in an attack on a convoy of the paramilitary force in 2004.

&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the Pulwama terror attack.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the Pulwama terror attack. Das also assured a job to the kin of the martyr. The chief minister while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers, said, "Martyrs don't die, they attain heaven. Our government will give Rs 10 lakh and a job to the kin of Vijay Soreng, the jawaan from Jharkhand who got martyred in Pulwama." In the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suspected suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad in Pulwama district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The convoy of 78 buses, in which around 2500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar, came under attack at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. Earlier in September 2016, an Army camp was stormed by terrorists in Uri, killing 19 soldiers. Prior to that, 28 BSF personnel were killed in an attack on a convoy of the paramilitary force in 2004.

Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces solatium, job to family of deceased soldier

PM Modi condemns Pulwama terror attack, warns of tough retaliation

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-what-we-know-so-far-197443">rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans</a> on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.&nbsp;The attack left 40 people dead.&nbsp;

Officials said there were a total of 42 people in the bus including the driver.&nbsp;The attack on the bus — it was travelling in a convoy — took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora.&nbsp;There had been 70 vehicles in the convoy which had been transporting 2,500 personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

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K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&amp;K Govt to ANI: Death toll in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwamaattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwamaattack</a> is around 40 <a href="https://t.co/mUPCRcZnhz">pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz</a>
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The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll. The first reports had said eight CRPF personnel had died; that figure quickly turned into 12, and then continued to climb upwards.&nbsp;

The death toll makes this the worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in decades. Nineteen Indian soldiers had died in the attack on the army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri in September 2016, which led to India's surgical strikes.&nbsp;

Officials said the terrorist was carrying over a 100 kgs of explosive in his vehicle. He had been driving on the wrong side of the road and rammed head-on into the CRPF bus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS.

The terrorist who carried out the attack was identified as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama</a>; pictures and video of him began to flood social media soon after the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-brave-security-personnel-shall-not-go-in-vain-modi-says-after-pulwama-attack-197456">"despicable" and "dastardly" attack</a>, saying "the sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain".&nbsp;

Modi added that he had spoken with Home Minister Rajnath Singh about the situation in Kashmir.&nbsp;

He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdhLUtNK8h">pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096070940755148801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed".

He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this".&nbsp;

K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack.&nbsp;

Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday.&nbsp;

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Sources: Cabinet Committee on Security to meet at 9:15 AM tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/N2qMtmezx4">pic.twitter.com/N2qMtmezx4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096065840221483008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.

&nbsp;

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack left 40 people dead.

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack left 40 people dead. Officials said there were a total of 42 people in the bus including the driver. The attack on the bus — it was travelling in a convoy — took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora. There had been 70 vehicles in the convoy which had been transporting 2,500 personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&K Govt to ANI: Death toll in #Pulwamaattack is around 40 pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll. The first reports had said eight CRPF personnel had died; that figure quickly turned into 12, and then continued to climb upwards. The death toll makes this the worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in decades. Nineteen Indian soldiers had died in the attack on the army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri in September 2016, which led to India's surgical strikes. Officials said the terrorist was carrying over a 100 kgs of explosive in his vehicle. He had been driving on the wrong side of the road and rammed head-on into the CRPF bus. The Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS. The terrorist who carried out the attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama; pictures and video of him began to flood social media soon after the attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the "despicable" and "dastardly" attack, saying "the sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain". Modi added that he had spoken with Home Minister Rajnath Singh about the situation in Kashmir. He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials. #WATCH: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." #PulwamaAttack pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed". He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this". K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack. Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday. Sources: Cabinet Committee on Security to meet at 9:15 AM tomorrow pic.twitter.com/N2qMtmezx4 — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.

Terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu & Kashmir's Pulwama: Death toll climbs to 40

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, February 15, 2019

As many as 7 people have been detained by security forces after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) joined Jammu and Kashmir Police's&nbsp;probe into <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-summons-pakistan-high-commission-lodges-strong-protest-197574">Pulwama terror attack on Friday</a>. According to reports, multiple raids were conducted by security forces today. Mobile internet has been suspended in Jammu.&nbsp;

Experts of anti-terror commando force the National Security Guard (NSG) and investigators of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) left for Jammu and Kashmir on Friday to join the probe into the terror attack in Pulwama in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

On Thursday, a home ministry official had said an NIA team with forensic experts was being sent to Srinagar to assist Jammu and Kashmir Police in forensic evaluation of the scene of the crime.

Explosive specialists of the Black Cat commando force NSG would also join in the investigation into the attack, another official had said.

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Bravehearts of CRPF who made the supreme sacrifice and attained martyrdom in the Pulwama attack on 14/02/2019. <a href="https://t.co/eHrPnYaSGV">pic.twitter.com/eHrPnYaSGV</a>
— 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/crpfindia/status/1096396088083443718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday reached the stage and paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in yesterday's ghastly attack.

Later in the day, Singh announced, "In the wake of suicide attack on CRPF convoy yesterday, it has been decided that the civilian movement will be stopped for sometime when a large convoy of security forces passes through an area. Civilians will face a little difficulty, we apologise for it".

"I've requested state govts to extend the maximum help they can lend to the bereaved families. I've given all the necessary directions to the officers. The morale has not taken a hit. We'll see this fight against terrorism to the end," he noted.&nbsp;

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HM Rajnath Singh in Srinagar: In the wake of suicide attack on CRPF convoy y'day, it has been decided that the civilian movement will be stopped for sometime when a large convoy of security forces passes through an area. Civilians will face a little difficulty,we apologise for it <a href="https://t.co/dk4xFtNl8t">pic.twitter.com/dk4xFtNl8t</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096380757734551554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"There are some elements who are hand in glove with terror organisations, terror forces &amp; ISI across the border. They are involved in terror conspiracies too. They are toying with the future of the people, especially the youth, of J&amp;K," the minister added.&nbsp;

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed and five injured in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district on Thursday.

More than 2,500 Central Reserve Police Force personnel, many of them returning from leave to rejoin duty in the Valley, were travelling in the convoy of 78 vehicles when they were ambushed on the Srinagar-Jammu highway at Latoomode in Awantipora in south Kashmir.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/we-stand-united-with-india-world-leaders-extend-solidarity-over-pulwama-terror-attack-197579">World leaders condemned the heinous attack</a> while in a strong reaction, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-summons-pakistan-high-commission-lodges-strong-protest-197574">India summoned Pak envoy</a> and decided to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">scrap Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan</a>.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

As many as 7 people have been detained by security forces after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) joined Jammu and Kashmir Police's probe into Pulwama terror attack on Friday.

As many as 7 people have been detained by security forces after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) joined Jammu and Kashmir Police's probe into Pulwama terror attack on Friday. According to reports, multiple raids were conducted by security forces today. Mobile internet has been suspended in Jammu. Experts of anti-terror commando force the National Security Guard (NSG) and investigators of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) left for Jammu and Kashmir on Friday to join the probe into the terror attack in Pulwama in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed, news agency PTI reported. On Thursday, a home ministry official had said an NIA team with forensic experts was being sent to Srinagar to assist Jammu and Kashmir Police in forensic evaluation of the scene of the crime. Explosive specialists of the Black Cat commando force NSG would also join in the investigation into the attack, another official had said. Bravehearts of CRPF who made the supreme sacrifice and attained martyrdom in the Pulwama attack on 14/02/2019. pic.twitter.com/eHrPnYaSGV — 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) February 15, 2019 × Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday reached the stage and paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in yesterday's ghastly attack. Later in the day, Singh announced, "In the wake of suicide attack on CRPF convoy yesterday, it has been decided that the civilian movement will be stopped for sometime when a large convoy of security forces passes through an area. Civilians will face a little difficulty, we apologise for it". "I've requested state govts to extend the maximum help they can lend to the bereaved families. I've given all the necessary directions to the officers. The morale has not taken a hit. We'll see this fight against terrorism to the end," he noted. HM Rajnath Singh in Srinagar: In the wake of suicide attack on CRPF convoy y'day, it has been decided that the civilian movement will be stopped for sometime when a large convoy of security forces passes through an area. Civilians will face a little difficulty,we apologise for it pic.twitter.com/dk4xFtNl8t — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2019 × "There are some elements who are hand in glove with terror organisations, terror forces & ISI across the border. They are involved in terror conspiracies too. They are toying with the future of the people, especially the youth, of J&K," the minister added. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed and five injured in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district on Thursday. More than 2,500 Central Reserve Police Force personnel, many of them returning from leave to rejoin duty in the Valley, were travelling in the convoy of 78 vehicles when they were ambushed on the Srinagar-Jammu highway at Latoomode in Awantipora in south Kashmir. World leaders condemned the heinous attack while in a strong reaction, India summoned Pak envoy and decided to scrap Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan. (With inputs from PTI)

Pulwama terror attack: NIA begins investigation, 7 detained after raids

Pulwama terror attack: World leaders offer condolences

A Pakistan-based militant group, Jaish-e-Mohammad, has taken responsibility for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-nia-begins-investigation-7-detained-after-raids-197621">the deadliest attack on security forces in Indian Kashmir</a> in 30 years of insurgency, ratcheting up tension between the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours.

India says the group and its leader, Masood Azhar, enjoy free rein in Pakistan, and demands that Pakistan acts to stop militant groups operating from its soil.

Pakistan condemned the Thursday bomb attack that killed 44 paramilitary policemen but denied any complicity.

India has blamed Jaish for a series of attacks including a 2001 raid on its parliament in New Delhi that led to India mobilising its military on the border, bringing the foes to the brink of a fourth war.

Who are the Jaish-e-Mohammad and what have they done?

Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), or Army of Mohammad, has ties to other Sunni militant groups in Pakistan such as Lashka-e-Taiba (LeT) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. It was banned in Pakistan in 2002 but US&nbsp;authorities say it still operates there openly.

Founded in 2000 after the release of Azhar from an Indian prison in exchange for 155 hostages from a hijacked Indian Airlines plane, it has claimed responsibility for numerous suicide bombings in Kashmir, India's only Muslim-majority state, which is also claimed by Pakistan.

The group, which aims to unite Kashmir with Pakistan, has repeatedly caused tension between India and Pakistan. Along with LeT, it was involved in attacks in 2001 on the Indian parliament and the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly building.

Pakistan rejects Indian accusations that it harbours and sustains the group. Pakistani authorities have linked JeM with two assassination attempts on former President Pervez Musharraf in 2003 as well as the kidnap and murder of US&nbsp;journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002.

Where do they operate and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/jem-chief-masood-azhar-his-plan-origin-and-motive-to-target-india-197567">who is Masood Azhar</a>?&nbsp;

While Kashmir is the focus of Jaish operations, the group was based in Bhawalpur, a dust-blown Pakistani town on the border with India in the south of Punjab province. Media reports and Indian intelligence sources have suggested that a walled headquarters, as well as another large premises on the outskirts of the city, are used to recruit and train youngsters from the impoverished region.

The Jaish is listed as one of 33 banned organisations by Pakistan's National Counter-Terrorism Authority, which states on its website that the ban came on Jan. 14, 2002. But the group has never hidden its existence, frequently issuing videos threatening India, and also the United States.

After a period of silence, the portly Azhar surfaced in a video in 2014, boasting of 300 suicide bombers at his command and threatening to kill PM Narendra Modi if he became India's prime minister.

Despite many rumours, his whereabouts have been officially unknown since a 2016 attack on an Indian air force base in Pathankot in Indian Punjab.

What is the diplomatic wrangling over the group?

In 2001, the UN&nbsp;Security Council blacklisted the Jaish, tying it to al Qaeda, and accusing it of participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of al Qaeda acts.

But the group has floated in and out of the shadows and a US&nbsp;State Department report last year said Pakistan had not cracked down on the activities of JeM and other groups that aim mainly to operate outside its territory.

"The government failed to significantly limit LeT and JeM from openly raising money, recruiting, and training in Pakistan", it said.

While Jaish was blacklisted by the UN&nbsp;Security Council, India's efforts to get Azhar sanctioned have been blocked by China, it says. China has put a technical hold each time India has pushed the issue in the council.

On Friday, China said it condemned the latest attack in Kashmir, and noted that Jaish, which claimed the attack, was already on a UN&nbsp;sanctions list. As for its leader is concerned, the relevant committee had rules and processes for listing people, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said.

A Pakistan-based militant group, Jaish-e-Mohammad, has taken responsibility for the deadliest attack on security forces in Indian Kashmir in 30 years of insurgency, ratcheting up tension between the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours.

A Pakistan-based militant group, Jaish-e-Mohammad, has taken responsibility for the deadliest attack on security forces in Indian Kashmir in 30 years of insurgency, ratcheting up tension between the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours. India says the group and its leader, Masood Azhar, enjoy free rein in Pakistan, and demands that Pakistan acts to stop militant groups operating from its soil. Pakistan condemned the Thursday bomb attack that killed 44 paramilitary policemen but denied any complicity. India has blamed Jaish for a series of attacks including a 2001 raid on its parliament in New Delhi that led to India mobilising its military on the border, bringing the foes to the brink of a fourth war. Who are the Jaish-e-Mohammad and what have they done? Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), or Army of Mohammad, has ties to other Sunni militant groups in Pakistan such as Lashka-e-Taiba (LeT) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. It was banned in Pakistan in 2002 but US authorities say it still operates there openly. Founded in 2000 after the release of Azhar from an Indian prison in exchange for 155 hostages from a hijacked Indian Airlines plane, it has claimed responsibility for numerous suicide bombings in Kashmir, India's only Muslim-majority state, which is also claimed by Pakistan. The group, which aims to unite Kashmir with Pakistan, has repeatedly caused tension between India and Pakistan. Along with LeT, it was involved in attacks in 2001 on the Indian parliament and the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly building. Pakistan rejects Indian accusations that it harbours and sustains the group. Pakistani authorities have linked JeM with two assassination attempts on former President Pervez Musharraf in 2003 as well as the kidnap and murder of US journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002. Where do they operate and who is Masood Azhar? While Kashmir is the focus of Jaish operations, the group was based in Bhawalpur, a dust-blown Pakistani town on the border with India in the south of Punjab province. Media reports and Indian intelligence sources have suggested that a walled headquarters, as well as another large premises on the outskirts of the city, are used to recruit and train youngsters from the impoverished region. The Jaish is listed as one of 33 banned organisations by Pakistan's National Counter-Terrorism Authority, which states on its website that the ban came on Jan. 14, 2002. But the group has never hidden its existence, frequently issuing videos threatening India, and also the United States. After a period of silence, the portly Azhar surfaced in a video in 2014, boasting of 300 suicide bombers at his command and threatening to kill PM Narendra Modi if he became India's prime minister. Despite many rumours, his whereabouts have been officially unknown since a 2016 attack on an Indian air force base in Pathankot in Indian Punjab. What is the diplomatic wrangling over the group? In 2001, the UN Security Council blacklisted the Jaish, tying it to al Qaeda, and accusing it of participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of al Qaeda acts. But the group has floated in and out of the shadows and a US State Department report last year said Pakistan had not cracked down on the activities of JeM and other groups that aim mainly to operate outside its territory. "The government failed to significantly limit LeT and JeM from openly raising money, recruiting, and training in Pakistan", it said. While Jaish was blacklisted by the UN Security Council, India's efforts to get Azhar sanctioned have been blocked by China, it says. China has put a technical hold each time India has pushed the issue in the council. On Friday, China said it condemned the latest attack in Kashmir, and noted that Jaish, which claimed the attack, was already on a UN sanctions list. As for its leader is concerned, the relevant committee had rules and processes for listing people, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said.

Explainer: Jaish-e-Mohammad, the Pakistan-based militants, at heart of tension with India

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs.&nbsp;

The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss. Condolences aren’t enough- relief must follow swiftly. There can be no compensation for lives lost or limbs severed. Still, families of those who have shed their blood to protect the nation should not feel orphaned. This is the first priority.

But we can’t remain petrified in a state of shock for long. Words like dastardly, cowardly and barbaric have been used ad nauseam to condemn such terrorist attacks. They have lost all meaning. Our resolve to ‘give a fitting reply' to a treacherous neighbour at an opportune time’ has begun to sound a cliche.&nbsp;

At this moment of national grief and unprecedented anger let’s not quibble about lapses and options. What we need to agree on is to treat Pakistan like a pariah. Our diplomacy, of course, will exert to isolate the rogue and the failed state.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, this poses no problem. As long as it’s patrons - the USA and People’s Republic of China continue to protect Pakistan, it will gleefully continue its proxy war via terrorist attacks mounted from its soil.&nbsp;

No one should live in the fatal fool’s paradise that there has been a change of heart with a change of guard in Islamabad. Imran Khan remains a helpless puppet manipulated by those who pull all the strings behind the curtain. Unfortunately for India, this is no innocent performance but truly a dance macabre.&nbsp;

The armed forces in Pakistan and the ISI continue on a reckless path because they have been reassured time and again by the US and China that as long as they stand with it, India dare not retaliate.

Ever since Pakistan acquired what it likes to call the 'Islamic Nuclear Bomb' it has harboured megalomaniac dreams of parity with India founded on a balance of terror.

The Pakistan generals have fed their people a totally different narrative on 1965, 1971 and Kargil. As far as they are concerned the strategy of a ‘War of Thousand Cuts’ has served them well. Disaffection in the state of J&amp;K has grown thanks to Pakistan sponsoring agitators demanding ‘Azadi’ that goes far beyond autonomy and creates the dangerous mirage of Independence after cessation.&nbsp;

Let us rid ourselves of the illusion that Pakistan is a normal nation-state committed to respecting other’s sovereignty. It has no respect for rule of law. Either domestic or international. What late Kuldip Nayyar called distant neighbours have become deadly enemies next door. India is left with no choice but to reciprocate the sentiment of belligerence.&nbsp; 
 
It is not out of place to remind ourselves that the Father of the Nation, an Apostle of Peace and Non-Violence, had nothing against taking up arms against an aggressor. We are conscious that this is the 150th anniversary of the Mahatma’s birth but Pakistan is an immoral bully that can’t be tamed by ahimsa and satyagraha. We have already suffered heavy losses trying to continue a meaningless dialogue or to normalise relations through unilateral confidence-building&nbsp;measures. Enough is Enough.&nbsp;

Time to defang the venomous reptile. This doesn’t mean a hasty surgical strike. Pakistan and its allies, patrons and protectors&nbsp;should be made to pay an economic and political price. No doubt this will hurt us too. &nbsp;But can we live with shame swallowing our pride? What is the guarantee that India will be allowed to develop and prosper once we succumb to sinister designs of a treacherous neighbour encouraged by unreliable strategic and significant economic partners.

Pulwama should be seen as the decisive moment when we review and rework our external relations especially with neighbours big and small, the USA, China and Islamic countries. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs. The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss.

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs. The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss. Condolences aren’t enough- relief must follow swiftly. There can be no compensation for lives lost or limbs severed. Still, families of those who have shed their blood to protect the nation should not feel orphaned. This is the first priority. But we can’t remain petrified in a state of shock for long. Words like dastardly, cowardly and barbaric have been used ad nauseam to condemn such terrorist attacks. They have lost all meaning. Our resolve to ‘give a fitting reply' to a treacherous neighbour at an opportune time’ has begun to sound a cliche. At this moment of national grief and unprecedented anger let’s not quibble about lapses and options. What we need to agree on is to treat Pakistan like a pariah. Our diplomacy, of course, will exert to isolate the rogue and the failed state. For Pakistan, this poses no problem. As long as it’s patrons - the USA and People’s Republic of China continue to protect Pakistan, it will gleefully continue its proxy war via terrorist attacks mounted from its soil. No one should live in the fatal fool’s paradise that there has been a change of heart with a change of guard in Islamabad. Imran Khan remains a helpless puppet manipulated by those who pull all the strings behind the curtain. Unfortunately for India, this is no innocent performance but truly a dance macabre. The armed forces in Pakistan and the ISI continue on a reckless path because they have been reassured time and again by the US and China that as long as they stand with it, India dare not retaliate. Ever since Pakistan acquired what it likes to call the 'Islamic Nuclear Bomb' it has harboured megalomaniac dreams of parity with India founded on a balance of terror. The Pakistan generals have fed their people a totally different narrative on 1965, 1971 and Kargil. As far as they are concerned the strategy of a ‘War of Thousand Cuts’ has served them well. Disaffection in the state of J&K has grown thanks to Pakistan sponsoring agitators demanding ‘Azadi’ that goes far beyond autonomy and creates the dangerous mirage of Independence after cessation. Let us rid ourselves of the illusion that Pakistan is a normal nation-state committed to respecting other’s sovereignty. It has no respect for rule of law. Either domestic or international. What late Kuldip Nayyar called distant neighbours have become deadly enemies next door. India is left with no choice but to reciprocate the sentiment of belligerence. It is not out of place to remind ourselves that the Father of the Nation, an Apostle of Peace and Non-Violence, had nothing against taking up arms against an aggressor. We are conscious that this is the 150th anniversary of the Mahatma’s birth but Pakistan is an immoral bully that can’t be tamed by ahimsa and satyagraha. We have already suffered heavy losses trying to continue a meaningless dialogue or to normalise relations through unilateral confidence-building measures. Enough is Enough. Time to defang the venomous reptile. This doesn’t mean a hasty surgical strike. Pakistan and its allies, patrons and protectors should be made to pay an economic and political price. No doubt this will hurt us too. But can we live with shame swallowing our pride? What is the guarantee that India will be allowed to develop and prosper once we succumb to sinister designs of a treacherous neighbour encouraged by unreliable strategic and significant economic partners. Pulwama should be seen as the decisive moment when we review and rework our external relations especially with neighbours big and small, the USA, China and Islamic countries. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah

All diplomatic steps will be explored to isolate Pakistan: Arun Jaitley

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in.&nbsp;

Dozens of people were injured in the attack.&nbsp;

The bus the CRPF jawans had been travelling in was turned into a mangled heap of iron, and body parts could be seen strewn around the area.&nbsp;

A CRPF official said the bus had been travelling in a convoy of some 70 vehicles.

He added that the convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

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CRPF Official on Pulwama attack: There were 70 vehicles in the convoy and one of the vehicles came under attack. The convoy was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. <a href="https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE">https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096009638473015297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Police said they have identified the terrorist who carried out Thursday's attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018.&nbsp;

The terror group has claimed responsibility for the incident, they added.&nbsp;

ANI added that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS.

CRPF Director General RR Bhatnagar said there were 2,500 security personnel in the convoy. He added that an "investigation is underway" and the "injured being taken care of".

Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF (Operations) added that the Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating the attack. He added that the injured have been "shifted to hospital" and that a "post-blast analysis is being done at the spot".&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also spoke to Bhatnagar about the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF(Operations) on Pulwama blast: J&amp;K Police has taken up the investigation. The injured shifted to hospital. Post-blast analysis being done at the spot <a href="https://t.co/BsOi2nJhfh">pic.twitter.com/BsOi2nJhfh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096012786797293568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The bus carrying the CRPF jawans was attacked on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama's Awantipora area, a police official told PTI.

Further details are awaited, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in.

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in. Dozens of people were injured in the attack. The bus the CRPF jawans had been travelling in was turned into a mangled heap of iron, and body parts could be seen strewn around the area. A CRPF official said the bus had been travelling in a convoy of some 70 vehicles. He added that the convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. CRPF Official on Pulwama attack: There were 70 vehicles in the convoy and one of the vehicles came under attack. The convoy was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Police said they have identified the terrorist who carried out Thursday's attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018. The terror group has claimed responsibility for the incident, they added. ANI added that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS. CRPF Director General RR Bhatnagar said there were 2,500 security personnel in the convoy. He added that an "investigation is underway" and the "injured being taken care of". Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF (Operations) added that the Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating the attack. He added that the injured have been "shifted to hospital" and that a "post-blast analysis is being done at the spot". Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also spoke to Bhatnagar about the attack. Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF(Operations) on Pulwama blast: J&K Police has taken up the investigation. The injured shifted to hospital. Post-blast analysis being done at the spot pic.twitter.com/BsOi2nJhfh — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × The bus carrying the CRPF jawans was attacked on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama's Awantipora area, a police official told PTI. Further details are awaited, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

J&K: 40 CRPF jawans killed in Awantipora after JeM terrorist rams explosive-laden vehicle into their bus

A terrorist rammed a vehicle laden with explosives into a convoy carrying CRPF personnel on Thursday afternoon in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.&nbsp;

Here is what we know so far of the attack:&nbsp;

70 vehicles: The bus that was attacked Thursday was travelling in a convoy of 70 vehicles

2,500 personnel: There were a total of 2,500 personnel in the convoy

Jammu-Srinagar highway: The convoy was attacked on the Jammu-Srinagar highway near Awantipora in the state's Pulwama district. The convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar

3.15 pm: The attack took place at 3.15pm on Thursday

Bus was rammed: An explosive-laden vehicle was rammed into the bus carrying the CRPF jawans

JeM claims responsibilty: The Jaish-e-Mohammad has claimed, in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS, responsibilty for the attack

Adil Ahmad from Kakapora: Police identified the man who carried out the attack as Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama. They said that he joined the terror group in 2018.&nbsp;

200 kgs of explosive: The news agency IANS said Dar used 200 kgs of explosive, probably RDX, in the attack

A terrorist rammed a vehicle laden with explosives into a convoy carrying CRPF personnel on Thursday afternoon in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Here is what we know so far of the attack: 70 vehicles: The bus that was attacked Thursday was travelling in a convoy of 70 vehicles 2,500 personnel: There were a total of 2,500 personnel in the convoy Jammu-Srinagar highway: The convoy was attacked on the Jammu-Srinagar highway near Awantipora in the state's Pulwama district.

A terrorist rammed a vehicle laden with explosives into a convoy carrying CRPF personnel on Thursday afternoon in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Here is what we know so far of the attack: 70 vehicles: The bus that was attacked Thursday was travelling in a convoy of 70 vehicles 2,500 personnel: There were a total of 2,500 personnel in the convoy Jammu-Srinagar highway: The convoy was attacked on the Jammu-Srinagar highway near Awantipora in the state's Pulwama district. The convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar 3.15 pm: The attack took place at 3.15pm on Thursday Bus was rammed: An explosive-laden vehicle was rammed into the bus carrying the CRPF jawans JeM claims responsibilty: The Jaish-e-Mohammad has claimed, in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS, responsibilty for the attack Adil Ahmad from Kakapora: Police identified the man who carried out the attack as Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama. They said that he joined the terror group in 2018. 200 kgs of explosive: The news agency IANS said Dar used 200 kgs of explosive, probably RDX, in the attack

Pulwama attack: What we know so far

Breaking News: 30 CRPF jawans martyred in Pulwama terror attack

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said.

"One militant has been killed in an ongoing operation in Ratnipora area of Pulwama," the sources said.

They said an armyman also lost his life in the encounter, while another soldier was injured.

The injured soldier has been taken to a hospital for treatment, the sources said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Ratnipora area in south Kashmir during the night following specific information about the presence of militants there.

The search operation turned into an encounter after militants fired on the forces who retaliated.

The operation is on and further details were awaited.&nbsp;

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said.

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said. "One militant has been killed in an ongoing operation in Ratnipora area of Pulwama," the sources said. They said an armyman also lost his life in the encounter, while another soldier was injured. The injured soldier has been taken to a hospital for treatment, the sources said. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Ratnipora area in south Kashmir during the night following specific information about the presence of militants there. The search operation turned into an encounter after militants fired on the forces who retaliated. The operation is on and further details were awaited.

Terrorist, soldier killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama; encounter underway

Over 180 passengers, mostly the GATE aspirants, were Sunday airlifted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from Jammu to Srinagar, a defence spokesman said.

The IAF launched special sorties of C17 Globemaster over the past two days, airlifting a total of 538 persons, including 319 Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) aspirants, between the twin capitals on Friday and Saturday, he said.

"The IAF again came into assistance of 186 passengers including 170 students who were again airlifted from Jammu to Srinagar after appearing in the GATE examination," the spokesman said.

He said the students quoted it as a "lifetime memorable exam" for them and will be remembered forever.

"The students were very relieved as they could appear only because of timely and humanitarian assistance from the armed forces. All of them were very appreciative and thankful for this humanitarian concern of the armed forces along with guarding the frontiers at all times," the spokesman said.

Among others who were airlifted included children, he said.

Meanwhile, 28 stranded people, including three critically-ill women, were airlifted from snow-bound areas of Kishtwar in various sorties by Pawan Hans helicopter, officials said.

Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana personally monitored the operations, they said, adding the district administration had sought the chopper services to airlift critically-ill patients from far-flung snowbound areas including Marwah, Warwan and Dachhan.

On Saturday, the district administration had airlifted three patients from Kishtwar to Jammu.

Over 180 passengers, mostly the GATE aspirants, were Sunday airlifted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from Jammu to Srinagar, a defence spokesman said. The IAF launched special sorties of C17 Globemaster over the past two days, airlifting a total of 538 persons, including 319 Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) aspirants, between the twin capitals on Friday and Saturday, he said.

Over 180 passengers, mostly the GATE aspirants, were Sunday airlifted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from Jammu to Srinagar, a defence spokesman said. The IAF launched special sorties of C17 Globemaster over the past two days, airlifting a total of 538 persons, including 319 Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) aspirants, between the twin capitals on Friday and Saturday, he said. "The IAF again came into assistance of 186 passengers including 170 students who were again airlifted from Jammu to Srinagar after appearing in the GATE examination," the spokesman said. He said the students quoted it as a "lifetime memorable exam" for them and will be remembered forever. "The students were very relieved as they could appear only because of timely and humanitarian assistance from the armed forces. All of them were very appreciative and thankful for this humanitarian concern of the armed forces along with guarding the frontiers at all times," the spokesman said. Among others who were airlifted included children, he said. Meanwhile, 28 stranded people, including three critically-ill women, were airlifted from snow-bound areas of Kishtwar in various sorties by Pawan Hans helicopter, officials said. Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana personally monitored the operations, they said, adding the district administration had sought the chopper services to airlift critically-ill patients from far-flung snowbound areas including Marwah, Warwan and Dachhan. On Saturday, the district administration had airlifted three patients from Kishtwar to Jammu.

Indian Air Force airlifts 186 stranded passengers from Jammu to Srinagar

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now.

Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said.

"Ladakh created as a separate administrative and revenue division. Jammu and Kashmir will have three divisions -- Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir," it said.

The administration has sanctioned creation of a separate administrative and revenue division comprising Leh and Kargil districts, with its headquarters at Leh, the order said.

It has also ordered constitution of a committee under the chairmanship of principal secretary, planning, development and monitoring department to identify the posts of divisional level heads of departments that may be required for the new division, particularly their staffing pattern, responsibilities and proposed location of these offices.

The order said this decision goes a long way in fulfilling the governance and development aspirations of the people of Ladakh region.

"The issue has been discussed at various fora and there has been a persistent demand for the creation of division for Ladakh from many organisations, including the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) Leh and Kargil," it added.

Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu and Kashmir and is the highest plateau in the state, with most of it being over 9,800 feet above sea level. The region is geographically isolated with an inhospitable terrain.&nbsp;

Consequently, the region is riddled with insurmountable problems with respect to delivery of developmental schemes, redressal of public grievances, conduct of administrative affairs and governance, it said.

The people of Ladakh have for a long time been demanding effective local institutional arrangements which can help accelerate the pace of development and equitable all-round growth and development, it said.

"At present the powers of local governance have already been decentralised by formation of Hill Development Councils for the Leh and Kargil Districts.

This was given effect by enacting the Jammu and Kashmir Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997," the order said.

Under the said act, the Hill Development Councils were established both for Leh and Kargil districts.

In order to strengthen the councils, the LAHDC Act, 1997 was amended further in 2018 to give them more power.

Officials said the entire Ladakh region remains cut-off from rest of the country for almost six months. Air travel via Leh is the only mode of transport available to this region, which makes it impossible for people to visit other parts of the country.

The remoteness and inaccessibility of the area makes the area eligible for establishing a separate division for the said region, they said.

Taking all this into consideration, the administration has decided to create a separate administrative and revenue division for Ladakh, they said.&nbsp;

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now. Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said.

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now. Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said. "Ladakh created as a separate administrative and revenue division. Jammu and Kashmir will have three divisions -- Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir," it said. The administration has sanctioned creation of a separate administrative and revenue division comprising Leh and Kargil districts, with its headquarters at Leh, the order said. It has also ordered constitution of a committee under the chairmanship of principal secretary, planning, development and monitoring department to identify the posts of divisional level heads of departments that may be required for the new division, particularly their staffing pattern, responsibilities and proposed location of these offices. The order said this decision goes a long way in fulfilling the governance and development aspirations of the people of Ladakh region. "The issue has been discussed at various fora and there has been a persistent demand for the creation of division for Ladakh from many organisations, including the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) Leh and Kargil," it added. Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu and Kashmir and is the highest plateau in the state, with most of it being over 9,800 feet above sea level. The region is geographically isolated with an inhospitable terrain. Consequently, the region is riddled with insurmountable problems with respect to delivery of developmental schemes, redressal of public grievances, conduct of administrative affairs and governance, it said. The people of Ladakh have for a long time been demanding effective local institutional arrangements which can help accelerate the pace of development and equitable all-round growth and development, it said. "At present the powers of local governance have already been decentralised by formation of Hill Development Councils for the Leh and Kargil Districts. This was given effect by enacting the Jammu and Kashmir Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997," the order said. Under the said act, the Hill Development Councils were established both for Leh and Kargil districts. In order to strengthen the councils, the LAHDC Act, 1997 was amended further in 2018 to give them more power. Officials said the entire Ladakh region remains cut-off from rest of the country for almost six months. Air travel via Leh is the only mode of transport available to this region, which makes it impossible for people to visit other parts of the country. The remoteness and inaccessibility of the area makes the area eligible for establishing a separate division for the said region, they said. Taking all this into consideration, the administration has decided to create a separate administrative and revenue division for Ladakh, they said.

Jammu and Kashmir administration creates separate division for Ladakh

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district.

The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama.

Police said Sheikh was a district commander of the Lashkar e Taiba.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir Police: One terrorist got killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Pulwama today.The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora, Pulwama. He was affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba &amp; was known as district Commander of LeT. <a href="https://t.co/bBAqgESS82">pic.twitter.com/bBAqgESS82</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093139816370233345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A member of the security forces was also injured in Kulgam district after terrorists&nbsp;threw a grenade at a CRPF camp.&nbsp;

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Terrorists fired a grenade at a CRPF camp in Kulgam which blasted in open ground, today. One security personnel sustained splinter injuries and was immediately evacuated to Govt Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is stable.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093115847994998784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The injured man was immediately rushed to Government Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is believed to be stable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama.

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama. Police said Sheikh was a district commander of the Lashkar e Taiba. Jammu & Kashmir Police: One terrorist got killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Pulwama today.The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora, Pulwama. He was affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba & was known as district Commander of LeT. pic.twitter.com/bBAqgESS82 — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2019 × A member of the security forces was also injured in Kulgam district after terrorists threw a grenade at a CRPF camp. Jammu & Kashmir: Terrorists fired a grenade at a CRPF camp in Kulgam which blasted in open ground, today. One security personnel sustained splinter injuries and was immediately evacuated to Govt Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is stable. — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2019 × The injured man was immediately rushed to Government Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is believed to be stable. (With inputs from ANI)

Terrorist killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited <a href="https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj">https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092830351741911040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The earthquake struck 118 km north-west of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said on its website.

Tremors were felt in various parts of the valley. No loss of life or property has been reported so far, more details are awaited.&nbsp;

Former J&amp;K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tweeted out, "Srinagar rocks!"

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported. An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited https://t.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported. An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × The earthquake struck 118 km north-west of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said on its website. Tremors were felt in various parts of the valley. No loss of life or property has been reported so far, more details are awaited. Former J&K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tweeted out, "Srinagar rocks!"

J&K: 5.6-magnitude earthquake hits Kashmir, tremors felt in Srinagar

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday.&nbsp;

At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said.

Pakistani troops have been regularly violating ceasefire, especially along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said.

Pakistan army has once again violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. At about 10:30 am unprovoked firing with rocket launchers started from the Pakistani side in Krishna Ghati sector, Army sources said. Pakistani troops have been regularly violating ceasefire, especially along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire again in Poonch

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is getting ready for another spell of rain and snowfall after remaining dry for only some days. The harsh winter period called ‘Chilai Kalan’ has come to an end in the valley.&nbsp;

This winter season, the state witnessed more snowfall than usual. Also, early snowfall in the month of November caused damage to apple farms in particular.&nbsp;

“A fresh spell of rain and snowfall is expected from today up to 8th (Feb) morning. The system will move forward from North West to South East of J&amp;K. Again, Pir Panjal range from Bhaderwah to Baramulla will receive heavy rain, snow between 6th to 7th February,” said a Metrological Department official.&nbsp;

16 lives have already been lost due to avalanches in different parts of the state, besides the reports of damage to various properties.&nbsp;

The district administration has issued avalanche warnings for nine avalanche-prone districts.&nbsp;

Due to bad weather, the highway connecting Kashmir to the rest of the world has remained shut for days, causing inconvenience to commuters. The airfares to the state have already skyrocketed due to the closure of the highway.&nbsp;

On Sunday, J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik made an appeal to Prime Minister Modi to look into the issue of high airfare.

“In winter, airlines charge as much as 28,000 rupees for a ticket, similar to that of a return ticket to Dubai. I request you to look into the issue,” Malik told Modi.

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is getting ready for another spell of rain and snowfall after remaining dry for only some days. The harsh winter period called ‘Chilai Kalan’ has come to an end in the valley.

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is getting ready for another spell of rain and snowfall after remaining dry for only some days. The harsh winter period called ‘Chilai Kalan’ has come to an end in the valley. This winter season, the state witnessed more snowfall than usual. Also, early snowfall in the month of November caused damage to apple farms in particular. “A fresh spell of rain and snowfall is expected from today up to 8th (Feb) morning. The system will move forward from North West to South East of J&K. Again, Pir Panjal range from Bhaderwah to Baramulla will receive heavy rain, snow between 6th to 7th February,” said a Metrological Department official. 16 lives have already been lost due to avalanches in different parts of the state, besides the reports of damage to various properties. The district administration has issued avalanche warnings for nine avalanche-prone districts. Due to bad weather, the highway connecting Kashmir to the rest of the world has remained shut for days, causing inconvenience to commuters. The airfares to the state have already skyrocketed due to the closure of the highway. On Sunday, J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik made an appeal to Prime Minister Modi to look into the issue of high airfare. “In winter, airlines charge as much as 28,000 rupees for a ticket, similar to that of a return ticket to Dubai. I request you to look into the issue,” Malik told Modi.

Weather department predicts fresh snowfall in J&K, airfares to state skyrocket 

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-foreign-minister-calls-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-india-calls-it-regressive-step-193753">telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader </a>Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

India Wednesday summoned Pakistan envoy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-pak-high-commissioner-over-foreign-minister-qureshis-phone-call-to-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-193958">Sohail Mahmood</a> and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002">6 times since 2014: Timeline of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002">summoning</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002"> of Pak high commissioner by Modi government</a>

Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications".

Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn News reported.

The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue.

"We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

"Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said.

Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's view point on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week.

The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan.

India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together.

Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed.

He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said.

The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue.

In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus standi in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan."&nbsp;

According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue.

Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue.

The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. India Wednesday summoned Pakistan envoy Sohail Mahmood and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Also read: 6 times since 2014: Timeline of summoning of Pak high commissioner by Modi government Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications". Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn News reported. The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue. "We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. "Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said. Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's view point on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week. The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan. India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together. Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed. He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said. The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue. In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus standi in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan." According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue. Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said. Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue. The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters: Qureshi after phone call to Mirwaiz

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-europe-not-to-force-strategic-leap-on-missile-range-194816">Do not thwart our missile development or we 'will be forced to make strategic leap': Iran</a>

The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-break-backbone-of-terror-in-jammu-and-kashmir-pm-narendra-modi-194857">Will break backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir: PM Narendra Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir".&nbsp;

"We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Bengal government 'anti-democratic', says Yogi Adityanath after his chopper is refused permission to land</a>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his rally at West Bengal's Raiganj and Balurghat after his chopper was refused permission to land by the Mamata Banerjee-led government.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-trade-minister-says-eu-irresponsible-to-refuse-to-reopen-brexit-deal-194815">UK trade minister says EU 'irresponsible' to refuse to reopen Brexit deal</a>

It would be irresponsible for the European Union to refuse to reopen negotiations over Britain's exit deal, British trade minister Liam Fox said in an interview aired on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-odi-india-beat-new-zealand-by-35-runs-win-series-4-1-194799">5th ODI: India beat New Zealand by 35 runs, win series 4-1</a>

India's bowlers rattled New Zealand's batsmen to win the fifth and final ODI by 35 runs at the Westpac Stadium, Wellington. That also meant they won the ODI series 4-1, having lost the fourth ODI at Hamilton by eight wickets.

Do not thwart our missile development or we 'will be forced to make strategic leap': Iran The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development.

Do not thwart our missile development or we 'will be forced to make strategic leap': Iran The deputy chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards has warned Europe against forcing the Islamic Republic into boosting the range of its missiles by trying to halt their development. Will break backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir: PM Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir". "We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said. Bengal government 'anti-democratic', says Yogi Adityanath after his chopper is refused permission to land Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his rally at West Bengal's Raiganj and Balurghat after his chopper was refused permission to land by the Mamata Banerjee-led government. UK trade minister says EU 'irresponsible' to refuse to reopen Brexit deal It would be irresponsible for the European Union to refuse to reopen negotiations over Britain's exit deal, British trade minister Liam Fox said in an interview aired on Sunday. 5th ODI: India beat New Zealand by 35 runs, win series 4-1 India's bowlers rattled New Zealand's batsmen to win the fifth and final ODI by 35 runs at the Westpac Stadium, Wellington. That also meant they won the ODI series 4-1, having lost the fourth ODI at Hamilton by eight wickets.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-rahul-gandhi-announces-loan-waiver-for-all-farmers-across-country-pm-modi-attacks-congress-for-gimmick-194848">Narendra Modi</a> said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir".&nbsp;

"We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said.&nbsp;

"We will tackle every terrorist in a befitting way," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> J&amp;K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his speech at an event in Srinagar, in Kashmiri language. <a href="https://t.co/uxpe8hde5P">pic.twitter.com/uxpe8hde5P</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092023144553111552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Prime Minister Narendra Modi tours Dal lake in Srinagar. <a href="https://t.co/EwEJFfuowV">pic.twitter.com/EwEJFfuowV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092036635456225280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi's BJP government has already taken a hard line on terrorism — 2018 saw a massive uptick in the number of terrorist and army deaths in Kashmir, and one of the highest number of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control — but experts have said the overtly military approach has not worked.&nbsp;

In recent times, the army has for example had to deal with the problem of civilian populations pelting stones at the armed forces as they take on terrorists.&nbsp;

Modi on Sunday also harked back to the surgical strike saying that with it, "India has shown to the world its new policies (on terrorism)".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi was in Jammu and Kashmir to lay the foundation stone for the University of Ladakh. He also inaugurated two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the Jammu and Srinagar divisions. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir". "We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir". "We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said. "We will tackle every terrorist in a befitting way," he added. #WATCH J&K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his speech at an event in Srinagar, in Kashmiri language. pic.twitter.com/uxpe8hde5P — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × #WATCH Jammu & Kashmir: Prime Minister Narendra Modi tours Dal lake in Srinagar. pic.twitter.com/EwEJFfuowV — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × Modi's BJP government has already taken a hard line on terrorism — 2018 saw a massive uptick in the number of terrorist and army deaths in Kashmir, and one of the highest number of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control — but experts have said the overtly military approach has not worked. In recent times, the army has for example had to deal with the problem of civilian populations pelting stones at the armed forces as they take on terrorists. Modi on Sunday also harked back to the surgical strike saying that with it, "India has shown to the world its new policies (on terrorism)". Modi was in Jammu and Kashmir to lay the foundation stone for the University of Ladakh. He also inaugurated two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the Jammu and Srinagar divisions.

Will break backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir: PM Narendra Modi

The Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh arrived in the valley to review the security situation of the state. The visit of General has come as Indian army has killed several terrorists from the beginning of this year, mostly in south Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Indian army said that Ranbir Singh was briefed by the Chinar Corps Commander, Lt Gen AK Bhatt, on the major operational, informational, logistical and administrative aspects pertaining to the Corps and about the current situation including recent counter-terrorist operations.&nbsp;

“The Army Commander lauded the exemplary synergy amongst all security forces and complimented the troops for their relentless efforts and selfless service in bringing peace and tranquillity in the Valley,” the army said in a statement.

Ahead of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, sources had told WION that 15 cops chief lieutenant general AK Bhatt, will be replaced and KVS Dhillon, who is believed to be an “old hand” will hold the charge.&nbsp;

The Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh arrived in the valley to review the security situation of the state. The visit of General has come as Indian army has killed several terrorists from the beginning of this year, mostly in south Kashmir.

The Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh arrived in the valley to review the security situation of the state. The visit of General has come as Indian army has killed several terrorists from the beginning of this year, mostly in south Kashmir. The Indian army said that Ranbir Singh was briefed by the Chinar Corps Commander, Lt Gen AK Bhatt, on the major operational, informational, logistical and administrative aspects pertaining to the Corps and about the current situation including recent counter-terrorist operations. “The Army Commander lauded the exemplary synergy amongst all security forces and complimented the troops for their relentless efforts and selfless service in bringing peace and tranquillity in the Valley,” the army said in a statement. Ahead of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, sources had told WION that 15 cops chief lieutenant general AK Bhatt, will be replaced and KVS Dhillon, who is believed to be an “old hand” will hold the charge.

J&K: Northern army commander visits valley, reviews security

Gravitas: Jammu & Kashmir receives fresh boost in tourism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.

During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI.

He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip.

The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said.

In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh.

He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings.

The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year.

The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed.

Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House.

On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support.

Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading.

Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants.

He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year. During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI. He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip. The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said. In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh. He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings. The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year. The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed. Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House. On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support. Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading. Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held. Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants. He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held.

PM to visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to launch several projects

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