The Indian Army might soon have its soldiers in jet pack suits to defend the borders with China and Pakistan. According to a report by the Eurasian Times on Tuesday (May 9), the army might soon have soldiers in "Iron Man" suits in semi-urban and urban warfare scenarios. Speaking to the publication, an army officer in Jammu and Kashmir, who chose to remain anonymous, said the jet pack suits are coming as an aerial surveillance platform.&nbsp;

The officer pointed out that the effectiveness of these suits would vary from place to place. "For instance, it will be less effective in terrain with thick vegetation. Also, the wind factor has to be catered for in higher reaches of mountains,” the officer added. Eurasian Times reported that with the conversation with the officer, it appeared that jet pack suits could soon debut in the valley.&nbsp;

Another officer highlighted that jet-packing would not be just about propelling through the air. The soldier could be equipped with other technologies such as infrared goggles to scan thick vegetation to identify enemy combatants.&nbsp;

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Yesterday, Richard Browning the founder of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravity</a> Industries gave a demo of their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jetpack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jetpack</a> system to the Indian Army in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Agra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Agra</a>. 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> has issued the requirement to procure 48 such systems.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IADN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IADN</a> <a href="https://t.co/0dcEW3hjyb">pic.twitter.com/0dcEW3hjyb</a>
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In February this year, the Army Borne Training School (AATS) in Agra got a demonstration of jet pack suits from Gravity Industries,&nbsp;a British company founded by Richard Browning, an ex-Marine. Taking to Twitter, the Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN) shared a video of Browning giving the demonstration of the jet pack system to the Indian Army.&nbsp;

As per Gravity Industries, the jet pack suit is powered by five gas turbines which can generate over 1,000 horsepower and produce 144 kg&nbsp;of thrust. The speed of the suit is typically in excess of 60 kilometres per hour (km/ph). The jet pack can run on Jet A1 Kerosene and Premium Diesel.&nbsp;

In January, the Indian Defence Ministry said that it intended to buy 48 jet pack suits under emergency procurement through Fast Track Procedure (FTP) under Buy (Indian) category and sought participation in the procurement process from prospective bidders subject to requirements.&nbsp;

"The Government of India invites responses to this request only from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) or Authorised Vendors or Government Sponsored Export Agencies (applicable in the case of countries where domestic laws do not permit direct export by OEM) subject to the condition that in cases where the same equipment is offered by more than one of the aforementioned parties, preference would be given to the OEM," the ministry said in its proposal on January 24.&nbsp; 
 
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The Indian Army might soon have its soldiers in jet pack suits to defend the borders with China and Pakistan. According to a report by the Eurasian Times on Tuesday (May 9), the army might soon have soldiers in "Iron Man" suits in semi-urban and urban warfare scenarios.

The Indian Army might soon have its soldiers in jet pack suits to defend the borders with China and Pakistan. According to a report by the Eurasian Times on Tuesday (May 9), the army might soon have soldiers in "Iron Man" suits in semi-urban and urban warfare scenarios. Speaking to the publication, an army officer in Jammu and Kashmir, who chose to remain anonymous, said the jet pack suits are coming as an aerial surveillance platform. The officer pointed out that the effectiveness of these suits would vary from place to place. "For instance, it will be less effective in terrain with thick vegetation. Also, the wind factor has to be catered for in higher reaches of mountains,” the officer added. Eurasian Times reported that with the conversation with the officer, it appeared that jet pack suits could soon debut in the valley. Another officer highlighted that jet-packing would not be just about propelling through the air. The soldier could be equipped with other technologies such as infrared goggles to scan thick vegetation to identify enemy combatants. Yesterday, Richard Browning the founder of #Gravity Industries gave a demo of their #Jetpack system to the Indian Army in #Agra. The #IndianArmy has issued the requirement to procure 48 such systems.#IADN pic.twitter.com/0dcEW3hjyb — Indian Aerospace Defence News - IADN (@NewsIADN) February 28, 2023 × In February this year, the Army Borne Training School (AATS) in Agra got a demonstration of jet pack suits from Gravity Industries, a British company founded by Richard Browning, an ex-Marine. Taking to Twitter, the Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN) shared a video of Browning giving the demonstration of the jet pack system to the Indian Army. As per Gravity Industries, the jet pack suit is powered by five gas turbines which can generate over 1,000 horsepower and produce 144 kg of thrust. The speed of the suit is typically in excess of 60 kilometres per hour (km/ph). The jet pack can run on Jet A1 Kerosene and Premium Diesel. In January, the Indian Defence Ministry said that it intended to buy 48 jet pack suits under emergency procurement through Fast Track Procedure (FTP) under Buy (Indian) category and sought participation in the procurement process from prospective bidders subject to requirements. "The Government of India invites responses to this request only from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) or Authorised Vendors or Government Sponsored Export Agencies (applicable in the case of countries where domestic laws do not permit direct export by OEM) subject to the condition that in cases where the same equipment is offered by more than one of the aforementioned parties, preference would be given to the OEM," the ministry said in its proposal on January 24. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Army personnel may soon get jet pack suits to defend borders with China, Pak: Report

Five Indian Army soldiers have been killed in an ongoing encounter in the Kandi Forest of the Rajouri sector in the Jammu region. Four more soldiers, including an officer, were injured in the encounter and have been shifted to the hospital for treatment. The Indian army had an input about the presence of terrorists in the area, after which the Indian army launched a major search operation.&nbsp;

The Indian army said that on 03 May 2023 a joint operation was launched based on a&nbsp;specific&nbsp;tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the Kandi Forest in the Rajouri Sector. At about 0730 hours on 05 May 2023, a search team established contact with a group of terrorists well entrenched in a cave. The area was&nbsp;thickly vegetated with rocky and steep cliffs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-2-terrorists-killed-in-baramula-encounter-second-operation-in-24-hours-588830">India: 2 terrorists killed in Baramulla encounter, second operation in 24 hours</a>

''The terrorists triggered an explosive device in retaliation. The Army team has suffered two fatal casualties with injuries to four more soldiers, including an officer, '' said the Indian Army PRO.&nbsp;

Indian Army columns have been conducting relentless intelligence-based operations to flush out a group of terrorists involved in an ambush on an army truck in the Jammu region's Tota Gali area of Bhata Dhurian. Additional teams from the vicinity have been directed to the site of the encounter. The injured personnel have been evacuated to Command Hospital, Udhampur.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bilawal-bhutto-india-trip-for-sco-foreign-ministers-meet-this-is-what-he-said-before-departure-588796">Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari</a>

The Indian army says that there is a likelihood that trapped terrorists have been killed in the gunfight. However, the bodies have not been retrieved.&nbsp;

''As per initial reports, a group of terrorists are trapped in the area. There is a likelihood of casualties in terrorist groups. The operation is in progress. Further details are being ascertained,' 'said the Indian Army.&nbsp;

This is the third operation in the Union territory in the last three days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Five Indian Army soldiers have been killed in an ongoing encounter in the Kandi Forest of the Rajouri sector in the Jammu region. Four more soldiers, including an officer, were injured in the encounter and have been shifted to the hospital for treatment.

Five Indian Army soldiers have been killed in an ongoing encounter in the Kandi Forest of the Rajouri sector in the Jammu region. Four more soldiers, including an officer, were injured in the encounter and have been shifted to the hospital for treatment. The Indian army had an input about the presence of terrorists in the area, after which the Indian army launched a major search operation. The Indian army said that on 03 May 2023 a joint operation was launched based on a specific tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the Kandi Forest in the Rajouri Sector. At about 0730 hours on 05 May 2023, a search team established contact with a group of terrorists well entrenched in a cave. The area was thickly vegetated with rocky and steep cliffs. Also read | India: 2 terrorists killed in Baramulla encounter, second operation in 24 hours ''The terrorists triggered an explosive device in retaliation. The Army team has suffered two fatal casualties with injuries to four more soldiers, including an officer, '' said the Indian Army PRO. Indian Army columns have been conducting relentless intelligence-based operations to flush out a group of terrorists involved in an ambush on an army truck in the Jammu region's Tota Gali area of Bhata Dhurian. Additional teams from the vicinity have been directed to the site of the encounter. The injured personnel have been evacuated to Command Hospital, Udhampur. Also read | Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari The Indian army says that there is a likelihood that trapped terrorists have been killed in the gunfight. However, the bodies have not been retrieved. ''As per initial reports, a group of terrorists are trapped in the area. There is a likelihood of casualties in terrorist groups. The operation is in progress. Further details are being ascertained,' 'said the Indian Army. This is the third operation in the Union territory in the last three days. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Five Indian army soldiers killed during anti-terror operations in J&K's Rajouri

Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad.&nbsp;

According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, a joint cordon and search operation was launched in Wanigam Payeen, Kreeri area of Baramulla by the police, Army (29RR) and SSB (2nd Bn).&nbsp;During the search operation, as the joint search party approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. The&nbsp;joint search party retaliated, leading to an encounter.

“In the ensuing encounter, two&nbsp;local terrorists linked with proscribed terrorist outfit LeT were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of the encounter. They have been identified as Shakir Majid Najar and Hanan Ahmad Seh, both residents of Shopian,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

As per police records, both the killed terrorists had recently joined terrorist ranks and were planning to carry out a terrorist attack in the area, which was timely neutralised.

“Incriminating materials, arms &amp; ammunition including one AK-47 rifle and one pistol were recovered from the site of the encounter. All the recovered materials have been taken into case records for further investigation,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

ADGP Kashmir congratulated the joint team of police and security forces for conducting a successful operation without any collateral damage and termed it a big success as the killed terrorists were planning to carry out terrorist attacks in the area.

This is the second operation in the last 24 hours in the Kashmir Valley. Four&nbsp;terrorists have been killed in these two operations in the Valley ahead of the G20 meet to be held in Srinagar. The union territory has been put on high alert.&nbsp;

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Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad.

Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad. According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, a joint cordon and search operation was launched in Wanigam Payeen, Kreeri area of Baramulla by the police, Army (29RR) and SSB (2nd Bn). During the search operation, as the joint search party approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. The joint search party retaliated, leading to an encounter. “In the ensuing encounter, two local terrorists linked with proscribed terrorist outfit LeT were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of the encounter. They have been identified as Shakir Majid Najar and Hanan Ahmad Seh, both residents of Shopian,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police. As per police records, both the killed terrorists had recently joined terrorist ranks and were planning to carry out a terrorist attack in the area, which was timely neutralised. “Incriminating materials, arms & ammunition including one AK-47 rifle and one pistol were recovered from the site of the encounter. All the recovered materials have been taken into case records for further investigation,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police. ADGP Kashmir congratulated the joint team of police and security forces for conducting a successful operation without any collateral damage and termed it a big success as the killed terrorists were planning to carry out terrorist attacks in the area. This is the second operation in the last 24 hours in the Kashmir Valley. Four terrorists have been killed in these two operations in the Valley ahead of the G20 meet to be held in Srinagar. The union territory has been put on high alert. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 2 terrorists killed in Baramulla encounter, second operation in 24 hours

The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory. The project is expected to be completed by April this year.

Located inside a water body on an island in Srinagar's Baba Demb area, Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple was completely damaged in the 2014 floods and now the archaeology department is making sure to restore the temple as per its exact original architecture when it was made.

''Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is being restored in the Baba Demb area. I opened the temple for the first time after decades in 2004 with the support of the majority community, otherwise, it wasn't possible to do so at that point in time. But the majority community has always given support to these things, and now Sharda temple has been opened as well, it's a great step. The area will be developed and a lot of people from the south will come to visit. it will be better for Kashmir, and it will be peaceful again,'' said Sanjay Saraf, leader of Lok Jan Shakti Party.&nbsp;

The government is spending over Rs 16 million on the temple and the project has been handed over to the roads and building department. All the renovation of&nbsp;the temple is being done in consultation with the Kashmiri Pandit community and is being completed in three phases.

''This temple was damaged in the 2014 floods, these works are generally done by the archaeology department, and they have asked us to work on it. We are the R&amp;B Department. The total project cost is Rs 1.62 crores. There are two parts to the renovation, the first is the main part of the temple, the restoration has to be done exactly to what it looked like earlier. We are using the same materials and making sure it's made exactly the way it was. The second part is the guard room construction. We are hopeful to finish this by April end,'' said Muzaffar Ahmad, AEE, Roads and Building department.&nbsp;

Kashmir has always shown the best examples of brotherhood to the rest of the world. The caretaker of this 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is a Muslim man.&nbsp;Riyaz Ahmad&nbsp;has been taking care of Hindu temples for a long time and it's been over a year since he has been taking care of this temple.

''I am thankful to the government that they have come forward to restore this temple which got damaged in the 2014 floods. I have been working with a Hindu organisation since 2008 and I am grateful to the government that they have decided to restore the temple. I want the sound of Morning Azaan and temple bells ring together to bring the communities together. It used to be like that earlier and it should be again like that only. I request all the Pandit community members to come back and live happily here. If the Sikhs in Punjab are cultivating rice for the rest of the country, why can't I take care of Hindu temples? We are one, Hindu, Muslim Sikh, everyone,'' said Riyaz Ahmad.&nbsp;

Since the temple is located on an Island, the workers faced a lot of hardship transporting the construction material to the temple courtyard. Everything was taken in boats with utmost care.&nbsp; 
 
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The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory. The project is expected to be completed by April this year. Located inside a water body on an island in Srinagar's Baba Demb area, Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple was completely damaged in the 2014 floods and now the archaeology department is making sure to restore the temple as per its exact original architecture when it was made. ''Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is being restored in the Baba Demb area. I opened the temple for the first time after decades in 2004 with the support of the majority community, otherwise, it wasn't possible to do so at that point in time. But the majority community has always given support to these things, and now Sharda temple has been opened as well, it's a great step. The area will be developed and a lot of people from the south will come to visit. it will be better for Kashmir, and it will be peaceful again,'' said Sanjay Saraf, leader of Lok Jan Shakti Party. The government is spending over Rs 16 million on the temple and the project has been handed over to the roads and building department. All the renovation of the temple is being done in consultation with the Kashmiri Pandit community and is being completed in three phases. ''This temple was damaged in the 2014 floods, these works are generally done by the archaeology department, and they have asked us to work on it. We are the R&B Department. The total project cost is Rs 1.62 crores. There are two parts to the renovation, the first is the main part of the temple, the restoration has to be done exactly to what it looked like earlier. We are using the same materials and making sure it's made exactly the way it was. The second part is the guard room construction. We are hopeful to finish this by April end,'' said Muzaffar Ahmad, AEE, Roads and Building department. Kashmir has always shown the best examples of brotherhood to the rest of the world. The caretaker of this 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is a Muslim man. Riyaz Ahmad has been taking care of Hindu temples for a long time and it's been over a year since he has been taking care of this temple. ''I am thankful to the government that they have come forward to restore this temple which got damaged in the 2014 floods. I have been working with a Hindu organisation since 2008 and I am grateful to the government that they have decided to restore the temple. I want the sound of Morning Azaan and temple bells ring together to bring the communities together. It used to be like that earlier and it should be again like that only. I request all the Pandit community members to come back and live happily here. If the Sikhs in Punjab are cultivating rice for the rest of the country, why can't I take care of Hindu temples? We are one, Hindu, Muslim Sikh, everyone,'' said Riyaz Ahmad. Since the temple is located on an Island, the workers faced a lot of hardship transporting the construction material to the temple courtyard. Everything was taken in boats with utmost care. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: 700-year-old temple being restored in Jammu & Kashmir’s Srinagar

The political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have opposed the move by the J&amp;K Government to impose property tax on the residents of the Union Territory. The administration led by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has issued the order to impose a property tax on people living within the jurisdiction of urban local bodies across the Union Territory with effect from April 1 this year.&nbsp;

The Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development department issued a notification stating the rules for the levy, assessment and collection of property tax in municipality committees and municipal councils. The rules shall be called as Jammu and Kashmir Property Tax (Other Municipalities) Rules, 2023, and will come into force from April 1, 2023. &nbsp;

The regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have come out strongly against the decision. Former J&amp;K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said that the order is “unjust”.

“No Taxation Without Representation. Why should people in J&amp;K pay state taxes, including the proposed property tax when we have no say in how our government is run &amp; no say in the decision-making of J&amp;K. We are expected to be mute spectators to all unjust decisions by Raj Bhavan,” said Omar Abdullah, former J&amp;K chief minister.&nbsp;

The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, on the other hand, called the decision an injustice. ''The people of this region have faced terrorism for decades and whatever was left was taken away during Covid, the economic condition of people is also worse, and now imposing this property tax is completely unacceptable. The people of the Union territory should come out and resist the government's decision in a peaceful manner. These decisions should be left for the elected government to decide, '' said Mehbooba Mufti, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

However, the LG administration has given out a clarification that Jammu and Kashmir is the only place in India where property tax wasn't being paid by the people. According to the government, it hampers the developmental work in the ULBs and municipal committees of UT.

The political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have opposed the move by the J&K Government to impose property tax on the residents of the Union Territory. The administration led by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has issued the order to impose a property tax on people living within the jurisdiction of urban local bodies across the Union Territory with effect from April 1 this year.

The political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have opposed the move by the J&K Government to impose property tax on the residents of the Union Territory. The administration led by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has issued the order to impose a property tax on people living within the jurisdiction of urban local bodies across the Union Territory with effect from April 1 this year. The Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development department issued a notification stating the rules for the levy, assessment and collection of property tax in municipality committees and municipal councils. The rules shall be called as Jammu and Kashmir Property Tax (Other Municipalities) Rules, 2023, and will come into force from April 1, 2023. The regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have come out strongly against the decision. Former J&K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said that the order is “unjust”. “No Taxation Without Representation. Why should people in J&K pay state taxes, including the proposed property tax when we have no say in how our government is run & no say in the decision-making of J&K. We are expected to be mute spectators to all unjust decisions by Raj Bhavan,” said Omar Abdullah, former J&K chief minister. The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, on the other hand, called the decision an injustice. ''The people of this region have faced terrorism for decades and whatever was left was taken away during Covid, the economic condition of people is also worse, and now imposing this property tax is completely unacceptable. The people of the Union territory should come out and resist the government's decision in a peaceful manner. These decisions should be left for the elected government to decide, '' said Mehbooba Mufti, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the LG administration has given out a clarification that Jammu and Kashmir is the only place in India where property tax wasn't being paid by the people. According to the government, it hampers the developmental work in the ULBs and municipal committees of UT.

Political parties in J&K oppose government's move to impose property tax

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two persons were killed after an avalanche hit Sonamarg in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Thursday. Watch this report to know more.

Avalanche hits Jammu and Kashmir, at least two killed

Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in&nbsp;anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley. Among those killed, 42 were foreign terrorists, mostly belonging to Pakistan.&nbsp;

“During the year 2022, total of 93 successful encounters took place in Kashmir in which 172 terrorists, including 42 foreign terrorists, were neutralised. Maximum terrorists neutralised were from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/The Resistant Front (TRF) (108) outfit followed by JeM (35), HM (22), Al-Badr (4) and AGuH (3) outfits,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Kashmir Police has also noted the decline in the number of youths joining the terror outfits in the valley. According to data, there is a decline of around 37 per cent in recruitment in terror organisations. And most of the recently joined terrorists have already been killed in the encounters, said police officials.&nbsp;

“This year, 100 fresh recruitments in&nbsp;terrorist ranks were reported, showing a decline of 37 per cent compared to last year. Maximum (74) joined LeT. Out of total recruitment, 65 terrorists were neutralised in encounters, 17 were arrested, and 18 terrorists are still active,” said Kumar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-of-lashkar-e-taiba-killed-in-shopian-encounter-544663">Read more:&nbsp;Three terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba killed in Shopian encounter</a>

Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that the lifespan of the newly recruited terrorists has been brought down drastically as well. Among the 172 local terrorists killed this year, 65 of them were newly recruited and most of them were killed within the first month of joining.&nbsp;

“The life span of newly recruited terrorists declined drastically. Out of total 65 newly recruited terrorists killed this year, 58 (89 per cent) were neutralised within first month of their joining,” added ADGP Kumar.&nbsp;

With the authorities running a major crackdown operation throughout the year, a huge quantity of arms and ammunition have been recovered in various operations across the valley from the terrorists. With the weapons arsenal depleted, the terror outfits are facing a tough time.&nbsp;

“This year huge quantities of weapons (360) were recovered during encounters and modules' busting which include 121 AK series rifles, eight (8)&nbsp;M4 Carbine &amp; 231 pistols. Besides, timely seizure of IEDs, Sticky Bombs and Grenades averted major terror incidents."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dg-police-says-all-target-killing-cases-solved-in-kashmir-545244">Read more:&nbsp;DG Police says all target killing cases solved in Kashmir</a>

Although one of the major challenges for the security forces in the year 2022 was civilian killings. Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed to have killed all the terrorists involved in the civilian killings in the region. Around 29 civilians were killed during various attacks in the Valley.&nbsp;

“During the year, total 29 civilians killed by terrorists include 21 locals (six Hindu including three Kashmiri Pandits and 15 Muslims) and eight (8) from other states. All terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised except Basit Dar and&nbsp;Adil Wani who will be neutralised soon,” said Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

Security forces also had to bear losses during the year 2022. Multiple attacks by terrorists were carried out across the Kashmir Valley in which 26 security personnel lost their lives.&nbsp;

“During the year, total 26 security forces personnel including 14 JKP personnel attained martyrdom during terror attacks/encounters. Majority of terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

However, Jammu and Kashmir Police said that there have been major changes in the mindset of the people in the region. They claim that house owners are denying shelter to the terrorists and parents are not feeling proud of their children joining the terror ranks.&nbsp;

"Two remarkable changes observed in society; House owners started denying shelter to terrorists and parents don’t feel proud if their wards join terrorism. Rather they appeal them to return, curse terrorists openly and&nbsp;work with JKP for the return of their wards," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP.

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Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has called the year 2022 a very successful one in anti-terror operations in the Kashmir region. The police informed that 172 terrorists have been killed in over 90 operations in the Kashmir Valley. Among those killed, 42 were foreign terrorists, mostly belonging to Pakistan. “During the year 2022, total of 93 successful encounters took place in Kashmir in which 172 terrorists, including 42 foreign terrorists, were neutralised. Maximum terrorists neutralised were from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/The Resistant Front (TRF) (108) outfit followed by JeM (35), HM (22), Al-Badr (4) and AGuH (3) outfits,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. Kashmir Police has also noted the decline in the number of youths joining the terror outfits in the valley. According to data, there is a decline of around 37 per cent in recruitment in terror organisations. And most of the recently joined terrorists have already been killed in the encounters, said police officials. “This year, 100 fresh recruitments in terrorist ranks were reported, showing a decline of 37 per cent compared to last year. Maximum (74) joined LeT. Out of total recruitment, 65 terrorists were neutralised in encounters, 17 were arrested, and 18 terrorists are still active,” said Kumar. Read more: Three terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba killed in Shopian encounter Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that the lifespan of the newly recruited terrorists has been brought down drastically as well. Among the 172 local terrorists killed this year, 65 of them were newly recruited and most of them were killed within the first month of joining. “The life span of newly recruited terrorists declined drastically. Out of total 65 newly recruited terrorists killed this year, 58 (89 per cent) were neutralised within first month of their joining,” added ADGP Kumar. With the authorities running a major crackdown operation throughout the year, a huge quantity of arms and ammunition have been recovered in various operations across the valley from the terrorists. With the weapons arsenal depleted, the terror outfits are facing a tough time. “This year huge quantities of weapons (360) were recovered during encounters and modules' busting which include 121 AK series rifles, eight (8) M4 Carbine & 231 pistols. Besides, timely seizure of IEDs, Sticky Bombs and Grenades averted major terror incidents." Read more: DG Police says all target killing cases solved in Kashmir Although one of the major challenges for the security forces in the year 2022 was civilian killings. Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed to have killed all the terrorists involved in the civilian killings in the region. Around 29 civilians were killed during various attacks in the Valley. “During the year, total 29 civilians killed by terrorists include 21 locals (six Hindu including three Kashmiri Pandits and 15 Muslims) and eight (8) from other states. All terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised except Basit Dar and Adil Wani who will be neutralised soon,” said Vijay Kumar. Security forces also had to bear losses during the year 2022. Multiple attacks by terrorists were carried out across the Kashmir Valley in which 26 security personnel lost their lives. “During the year, total 26 security forces personnel including 14 JKP personnel attained martyrdom during terror attacks/encounters. Majority of terrorists involved in these terror crimes have been neutralised,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. However, Jammu and Kashmir Police said that there have been major changes in the mindset of the people in the region. They claim that house owners are denying shelter to the terrorists and parents are not feeling proud of their children joining the terror ranks. "Two remarkable changes observed in society; House owners started denying shelter to terrorists and parents don’t feel proud if their wards join terrorism. Rather they appeal them to return, curse terrorists openly and work with JKP for the return of their wards," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 172 terrorists killed in 2022, Jammu & Kashmir Police calls it a successful year

The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the number of start-ups by the youth of the Kashmir Valley.

WION Pulse: Rise in number of start-ups in the Kashmir valley

The northern part of India is experiencing extreme cold weather conditions with the onset of the holiday season. The temperature in states such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Harayana and the capital city of New Delhi has plummeted, forcing the Met department to issue a caution.&nbsp;

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the temperature in Delhi could drop to four degrees celsius in the next 48 hours.

Delhites woke up to a dark, cold and bleak winter morning on Monday, described as 'severe' cold by the Met department. Fog across the city brought down the visibility as vehicles crawled.&nbsp;

"Severe cold reported at most places over Punjab; Cold day at most places with isolated severe cold day reported over Haryana, Chandigarh &amp; Delhi; cold day to severe cold day at isolated places over northwest Rajasthan and west Uttar Pradesh," tweeted IMD.&nbsp;

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Severe cold reported at most places over Punjab; Cold day at most places with isolated severe cold day reported over Haryana, Chandigarh &amp; Delhi; cold day to severe cold day at isolated places over northwest Rajasthan and west Uttar Pradesh. <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z2NEAJ0QLE">pic.twitter.com/Z2NEAJ0QLE</a>
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1607013439804952576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the weather report, dense fog is expected for the next four days across Delhi and Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

“Dense to very dense fog in many places very likely to continue over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh. Thereafter, dense fog in isolated pockets very likely to continue over these sub-divisions for the subsequent 4 days."

On Christmas, Delhi shivered as the minimum temperature plunged to 5.3 degrees Celsius which was three degrees below normal. In Rajasthan, the temperature dropped to 0.5 degree celsius in Sikar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the union territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, the valley saw the mercury dipping several degrees below the freezing point. Chilla-i-Kalan, the harshest&nbsp;winter period in Kashmir has begun which lasts roughly 40 days.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmirs-coldest-period-chilla-i-kalan-begins-srinagar-records-coldest-night-of-season-544997">Read more:&nbsp;Kashmir’s coldest period 'Chilla-i-Kalan' begins, Srinagar records coldest night of season</a>

The popular Dal Lake and its interiors have already frozen.&nbsp;Similarly, the temperature at Leh was recorded at minus 11.8 degree Celsius,&nbsp;while Kargil was at minus 12.1 degree celsius.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The northern part of India is experiencing extreme cold weather conditions with the onset of the holiday season. The temperature in states such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Harayana and the capital city of New Delhi has plummeted, forcing the Met department to issue a caution.

The northern part of India is experiencing extreme cold weather conditions with the onset of the holiday season. The temperature in states such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Harayana and the capital city of New Delhi has plummeted, forcing the Met department to issue a caution. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the temperature in Delhi could drop to four degrees celsius in the next 48 hours. Delhites woke up to a dark, cold and bleak winter morning on Monday, described as 'severe' cold by the Met department. Fog across the city brought down the visibility as vehicles crawled. "Severe cold reported at most places over Punjab; Cold day at most places with isolated severe cold day reported over Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi; cold day to severe cold day at isolated places over northwest Rajasthan and west Uttar Pradesh," tweeted IMD. Severe cold reported at most places over Punjab; Cold day at most places with isolated severe cold day reported over Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi; cold day to severe cold day at isolated places over northwest Rajasthan and west Uttar Pradesh. @ndmaindia @DDNewslive pic.twitter.com/Z2NEAJ0QLE — India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) December 25, 2022 × According to the weather report, dense fog is expected for the next four days across Delhi and Himachal Pradesh. “Dense to very dense fog in many places very likely to continue over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh. Thereafter, dense fog in isolated pockets very likely to continue over these sub-divisions for the subsequent 4 days." On Christmas, Delhi shivered as the minimum temperature plunged to 5.3 degrees Celsius which was three degrees below normal. In Rajasthan, the temperature dropped to 0.5 degree celsius in Sikar. Meanwhile, in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, the valley saw the mercury dipping several degrees below the freezing point. Chilla-i-Kalan, the harshest winter period in Kashmir has begun which lasts roughly 40 days. Read more: Kashmir’s coldest period 'Chilla-i-Kalan' begins, Srinagar records coldest night of season The popular Dal Lake and its interiors have already frozen. Similarly, the temperature at Leh was recorded at minus 11.8 degree Celsius, while Kargil was at minus 12.1 degree celsius. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Northern India shivers as extreme cold conditions prevail. Details here.

Today, Sargam Koushal took the title of Mrs World back to India after 21 years. Beating contestants from 63 countries, the 32-year-old secured the crown at a gala Mrs World event in Las Vegas and made her country proud.&nbsp;

Mrs World 2021 Shaylyn Ford of the US presented the crown to&nbsp;Koushal, who looked stunning in a pink centre-slit glittery gown designed by Bhawna Rao. She was mentored for the runway by pageant expert and model Alesia Raut.

Sharing the happy news on social media, the managing organisation of the Mrs India pageant said, "The long wait is over, it's after 21 years we have the CROWN back!"&nbsp;

The newly-crowned Mrs World also shared a note to mark her victory. She wrote, "We've got the crown back after 21-22 years. I'm so excited. Love you India, love you world."

Aditi Govitrikar, the actress&nbsp;who brought the Mrs India crown to India in 2001, congratulated Koushal for winning the prestigious title. She wrote, "Heartiest congratulations @sargam3 @mrsindiainc so happy to have been part of the journey.. it was time the crown came back after 21 years."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-miss-france-2023-crowned-after-tweaked-pageant-fails-to-sway-critics-544168">Miss France 2023 crowned after tweaked pageant fails to sway critics</a>

According to Koushal's Instagram account, she holds a postgraduate degree in English Literature. She is married to an Indian Navy officer and has previously worked as a teacher in Vizhag, Andhra Pradesh.

Mrs World, the first beauty pageant for married women, was conceived in 1984 and traces its roots to the Mrs America pageant. Initially, it was named Mrs Woman of the World, but after four years, it was renamed Mrs World.

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Today, Sargam Koushal took the title of Mrs World back to India after 21 years. Beating contestants from 63 countries, the 32-year-old secured the crown at a gala Mrs World event in Las Vegas and made her country proud.

Today, Sargam Koushal took the title of Mrs World back to India after 21 years. Beating contestants from 63 countries, the 32-year-old secured the crown at a gala Mrs World event in Las Vegas and made her country proud. Mrs World 2021 Shaylyn Ford of the US presented the crown to Koushal, who looked stunning in a pink centre-slit glittery gown designed by Bhawna Rao. She was mentored for the runway by pageant expert and model Alesia Raut. Sharing the happy news on social media, the managing organisation of the Mrs India pageant said, "The long wait is over, it's after 21 years we have the CROWN back!" The newly-crowned Mrs World also shared a note to mark her victory. She wrote, "We've got the crown back after 21-22 years. I'm so excited. Love you India, love you world." Aditi Govitrikar, the actress who brought the Mrs India crown to India in 2001, congratulated Koushal for winning the prestigious title. She wrote, "Heartiest congratulations @sargam3 @mrsindiainc so happy to have been part of the journey.. it was time the crown came back after 21 years." Also read: Miss France 2023 crowned after tweaked pageant fails to sway critics According to Koushal's Instagram account, she holds a postgraduate degree in English Literature. She is married to an Indian Navy officer and has previously worked as a teacher in Vizhag, Andhra Pradesh. Mrs World, the first beauty pageant for married women, was conceived in 1984 and traces its roots to the Mrs America pageant. Initially, it was named Mrs Woman of the World, but after four years, it was renamed Mrs World. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Sargam Koushal wins Mrs World 2022

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries. China had just withdrawn the forces from Ladakh and now opened a new front in Arunachal Pradesh where the two forces got into a scuffle, he added.&nbsp;

''We are not able to build good relations with our neighbouring countries. Our relationship with Pakistan is for everyone to see. And with China, it isn't that well either. China which had intruded in Ladakh and withdrew the forces and now opened another standoff in Arunachal Pradesh where the Chinese forces fought with our forces, '' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Omar also said that it was BJP Leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had said that neighbours cannot be changed and it's important to build relations with neighbouring countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-soon-ban-sale-of-loose-cigarettes-542479">India may soon ban sale of loose cigarettes, smoking zones at airports may go</a>

''Vajpayee Sahab had said that friends can be changed, not neighbours.&nbsp;We cannot change our neighbours, but we can build a good relationship with them. Although it happens only when both countries want to build good relations with each other. It is also the responsibility of China to maintain a good relationship with our country,'' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-soldiers-injured-in-clashes-with-chinese-army-in-arunchal-pradesh-report-542383">Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides</a>

Omar Abdullah while talking about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that Farooq Abdullah will be receiving Rahul Gandhi at Lakhanpur, the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir. He confirmed that his party National Conference will take part in Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&amp;K.

Earlier while addressing a party convention, Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir's natural resources, land and Jobs are being given to outsiders after the abrogation of articles 370 and 35A. He said when they come into power after elections, &nbsp;they will pass laws to protect land, jobs and other natural resources for the people of Jammu and Kashmir only.

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Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries. China had just withdrawn the forces from Ladakh and now opened a new front in Arunachal Pradesh where the two forces got into a scuffle, he added. ''We are not able to build good relations with our neighbouring countries. Our relationship with Pakistan is for everyone to see. And with China, it isn't that well either. China which had intruded in Ladakh and withdrew the forces and now opened another standoff in Arunachal Pradesh where the Chinese forces fought with our forces, '' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Omar also said that it was BJP Leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had said that neighbours cannot be changed and it's important to build relations with neighbouring countries. Also read | India may soon ban sale of loose cigarettes, smoking zones at airports may go ''Vajpayee Sahab had said that friends can be changed, not neighbours. We cannot change our neighbours, but we can build a good relationship with them. Although it happens only when both countries want to build good relations with each other. It is also the responsibility of China to maintain a good relationship with our country,'' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read | Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides Omar Abdullah while talking about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that Farooq Abdullah will be receiving Rahul Gandhi at Lakhanpur, the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir. He confirmed that his party National Conference will take part in Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&K. Earlier while addressing a party convention, Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir's natural resources, land and Jobs are being given to outsiders after the abrogation of articles 370 and 35A. He said when they come into power after elections, they will pass laws to protect land, jobs and other natural resources for the people of Jammu and Kashmir only. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former JK CM Omar Abdullah criticises BJP government over hostile relationship with neighbouring countries

Female athletes from the Kashmir Valley have proven their&nbsp;mettle in various sports across the world. And now for the first time, Over 200 female athletes are being trained at the water sports centre in the middle of the world-Famous Dal Lake to&nbsp;participate in tournaments across India and the world.&nbsp; While the temperatures in Srinagar were recorded at minus 2.2 degrees, these female water sports athletes are not stopping their training. With freezing temperatures across the region, these girls are training for hours every day on the Dal Lake. From rowing to Canoeing, these Kashmiri girls want to bring laurels for the country.&nbsp;

In the last two years over 70 medals in various tournaments have been won by these female athletes.&nbsp; ''If we talk about the last two or three years, there has been a huge increase in the number&nbsp;of female participations in water sports. There have been around&nbsp;110 medals won by water sports athletes and over 50 percent of these medals are taken by female athletes. Earlier, everyone used to say that water sports are not for women, It was a challenging role for me also when I started. There is a revolution&nbsp;in women participation in Kashmir and soon we will see these girls' winning&nbsp;medals in national and international tournaments,'' said Bilquis Mir Director Water Sports.&nbsp;

Bilquis is among the topmost water sports athletes from the valley herself. She was also a judge on the panel both at the Olympics as well as Asian games. She has represented Kashmir at Various international tournaments and won dozens of medals. And now she not only trains but inspires Kashmiri girls to pick up water sports as their&nbsp;career. She says Kashmiri girls have a lot of natural strength and can-do wonders in the water sports. She is not only looking&nbsp;at the city but rural areas searching for the talent to be part of the sports.&nbsp;

''It's winter and minus temperatures and despite that these girls are training for hours every day on the lake. I have trained over 200 female athletes, and I think there is so much talent especially in the rural areas in the Kashmir region. There is natural strength&nbsp;in the girls of the valley. We have a world class facility available in Kashmir. We are blessed with natural water resources both wild and still. Government has taken huge steps with regard to water sports,'' said Bilquis Mir, Director Water Sports.&nbsp;

The training continues everyday despite the harsh weather conditions. Girls from every district of the Kashmir region are being trained at this facility. These girls only hope to represent India at the International championships and win laurels for the country.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-politically-charged-pitch-prepared-ahead-of-us-iran-match-538520">FIFA World Cup 2022: Politically charged pitch prepared ahead of US-Iran match</a>

''My first national tournament was in 2014 and we were able to win a gold in that championship. And that was when I decided that sports is going to be my priority.&nbsp; I have played a lot of National&nbsp;tournaments so far and now I am focussed on International championships. I urge all the girls that sports are great for us. We can make a career&nbsp;out of it so that we are not dependent on anyone. I am sure Kashmiri girls will soon represent India at International level. We have the best equipment and due to that we are able to practice nicely,'' said Sumaira Bashir, Athlete.&nbsp;

And with such an increase in the number of female sportswomen in water sports, more and more girls are getting interested in joining the sport. And nothing is stopping these girls from training as the national tournaments are approaching. Some of these athletes have also been provided jobs under the sports category and adjusted in the water sports department.&nbsp;

''I started my sports journey in 2014, since I live on the lake, I saw Bilquis Mam training here. She once asked me to join the sports and I said yes. I was sitting at home, and I decided to join and I am glad I did. My dream is to play at international level, and we are practising very hard. It's extremely cold and temperatures are below zero but despite that we are training. We can't stop training as nationals are approaching. Girls are everywhere, and I ask young girls to join the water sports and I am also getting a job due to this, '' said Peer Mehak, Athlete.&nbsp;

The water sports department is now using natural water bodies across various districts of Kashmir region to train the athletes. Lakes like Wular, Manasbal, Ranjeet Sagar and Dal Lake are being utilised for training the young water sports athletes.&nbsp;

Female athletes from the Kashmir Valley have proven their mettle in various sports across the world. And now for the first time, Over 200 female athletes are being trained at the water sports centre in the middle of the world-Famous Dal Lake to participate in tournaments across India and the world.

Female athletes from the Kashmir Valley have proven their mettle in various sports across the world. And now for the first time, Over 200 female athletes are being trained at the water sports centre in the middle of the world-Famous Dal Lake to participate in tournaments across India and the world. While the temperatures in Srinagar were recorded at minus 2.2 degrees, these female water sports athletes are not stopping their training. With freezing temperatures across the region, these girls are training for hours every day on the Dal Lake. From rowing to Canoeing, these Kashmiri girls want to bring laurels for the country. In the last two years over 70 medals in various tournaments have been won by these female athletes. ''If we talk about the last two or three years, there has been a huge increase in the number of female participations in water sports. There have been around 110 medals won by water sports athletes and over 50 percent of these medals are taken by female athletes. Earlier, everyone used to say that water sports are not for women, It was a challenging role for me also when I started. There is a revolution in women participation in Kashmir and soon we will see these girls' winning medals in national and international tournaments,'' said Bilquis Mir Director Water Sports. Bilquis is among the topmost water sports athletes from the valley herself. She was also a judge on the panel both at the Olympics as well as Asian games. She has represented Kashmir at Various international tournaments and won dozens of medals. And now she not only trains but inspires Kashmiri girls to pick up water sports as their career. She says Kashmiri girls have a lot of natural strength and can-do wonders in the water sports. She is not only looking at the city but rural areas searching for the talent to be part of the sports. ''It's winter and minus temperatures and despite that these girls are training for hours every day on the lake. I have trained over 200 female athletes, and I think there is so much talent especially in the rural areas in the Kashmir region. There is natural strength in the girls of the valley. We have a world class facility available in Kashmir. We are blessed with natural water resources both wild and still. Government has taken huge steps with regard to water sports,'' said Bilquis Mir, Director Water Sports. The training continues everyday despite the harsh weather conditions. Girls from every district of the Kashmir region are being trained at this facility. These girls only hope to represent India at the International championships and win laurels for the country. Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: Politically charged pitch prepared ahead of US-Iran match ''My first national tournament was in 2014 and we were able to win a gold in that championship. And that was when I decided that sports is going to be my priority. I have played a lot of National tournaments so far and now I am focussed on International championships. I urge all the girls that sports are great for us. We can make a career out of it so that we are not dependent on anyone. I am sure Kashmiri girls will soon represent India at International level. We have the best equipment and due to that we are able to practice nicely,'' said Sumaira Bashir, Athlete. And with such an increase in the number of female sportswomen in water sports, more and more girls are getting interested in joining the sport. And nothing is stopping these girls from training as the national tournaments are approaching. Some of these athletes have also been provided jobs under the sports category and adjusted in the water sports department. ''I started my sports journey in 2014, since I live on the lake, I saw Bilquis Mam training here. She once asked me to join the sports and I said yes. I was sitting at home, and I decided to join and I am glad I did. My dream is to play at international level, and we are practising very hard. It's extremely cold and temperatures are below zero but despite that we are training. We can't stop training as nationals are approaching. Girls are everywhere, and I ask young girls to join the water sports and I am also getting a job due to this, '' said Peer Mehak, Athlete. The water sports department is now using natural water bodies across various districts of Kashmir region to train the athletes. Lakes like Wular, Manasbal, Ranjeet Sagar and Dal Lake are being utilised for training the young water sports athletes.

Over 200 female athletes train in water sports with goal to represent India at international tournaments

A massive landslide in the Kishtwar district of the northern Indian Union territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir on Saturday evening&nbsp;killed three persons, including a JCB driver, an engineer and a policeman, while trapping several under the debris. The rescue team called at the site also ran into trouble.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the accident took place on the under-construction&nbsp;Ratle Hydro-Electric Power Project. A rescue operation has been initiated by the authorities and efforts are underway to ascertain the extent of the loss.&nbsp;

Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/94th-edition-of-mann-ki-baat-pm-narendra-modi-talks-about-solar-energy-in-india-529560">94th edition of Mann Ki Baat: PM Narendra Modi talks about solar energy in India</a>

"JCB driver Manoj Kumar's body has been retrieved while we see two more bodies of engineer Sachin and a policeman Yaqoob. We have rescued another man, Ravi Roy, from the debris. 10 to 15 others sustained minor injuries in the two landslides," said&nbsp;Kishtwar SSP Shafqat Bhat.&nbsp;

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh informed the media that the rescue team deputed to the accident spot had also been trapped in the debris, suggesting that the extent of the landslides was much more dangerous than first anticipated.&nbsp;

"Spoke to DC Kishtwar, J&amp;K on receiving report of a fatal landslide at the site of under-construction Ratle Power Project. JCB driver unfortunately died. Rescue team of about six persons, deputed to site after the incident, has also got trapped under the debris," the minister told news wire agency ANI.&nbsp;

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According to local media reports, the injured have been carried to the nearby Government Medical College, Doda.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-six-people-including-two-pilots-die-in-a-helicoper-crash-in-kedarnath-526359">Read more:&nbsp;India: Six people, including two pilots die in a helicopter crash in Kedarnath</a>

Notably, earlier this month, a coordination meeting chaired by&nbsp;Kishori Lal Sharma, additional deputy commissioner, Kishtwar was called to assess the progress of the project.

At the time, the executing agency was directed by the commissioner to ensure proper dumping of muck and excavated material from the project, in&nbsp;strict accordance with NGT guidelines and guidelines issued by J&amp;K Pollution Control Committee.

(This is a developing story. More updates to follow) 
 
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&nbsp;

A massive landslide in the Kishtwar district of the northern Indian Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir on Saturday evening killed three persons, including a JCB driver, an engineer and a policeman, while trapping several under the debris.

A massive landslide in the Kishtwar district of the northern Indian Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir on Saturday evening killed three persons, including a JCB driver, an engineer and a policeman, while trapping several under the debris. The rescue team called at the site also ran into trouble. Reportedly, the accident took place on the under-construction Ratle Hydro-Electric Power Project. A rescue operation has been initiated by the authorities and efforts are underway to ascertain the extent of the loss. Also watch: 94th edition of Mann Ki Baat: PM Narendra Modi talks about solar energy in India "JCB driver Manoj Kumar's body has been retrieved while we see two more bodies of engineer Sachin and a policeman Yaqoob. We have rescued another man, Ravi Roy, from the debris. 10 to 15 others sustained minor injuries in the two landslides," said Kishtwar SSP Shafqat Bhat. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh informed the media that the rescue team deputed to the accident spot had also been trapped in the debris, suggesting that the extent of the landslides was much more dangerous than first anticipated. "Spoke to DC Kishtwar, J&K on receiving report of a fatal landslide at the site of under-construction Ratle Power Project. JCB driver unfortunately died. Rescue team of about six persons, deputed to site after the incident, has also got trapped under the debris," the minister told news wire agency ANI. "Spoke to DC Kishtwar,J&K on receiving report of a fatal landslide at the site of under-construction Ratle Power Project. JCB driver unfortunately died. Rescue team of about 6 persons, deputed to site after the incident, has also got trapped under the debris: Union Min Dr J Singh pic.twitter.com/tdWOJA7RQz — ANI (@ANI) October 29, 2022 × According to local media reports, the injured have been carried to the nearby Government Medical College, Doda. Read more: India: Six people, including two pilots die in a helicopter crash in Kedarnath Notably, earlier this month, a coordination meeting chaired by Kishori Lal Sharma, additional deputy commissioner, Kishtwar was called to assess the progress of the project. At the time, the executing agency was directed by the commissioner to ensure proper dumping of muck and excavated material from the project, in strict accordance with NGT guidelines and guidelines issued by J&K Pollution Control Committee. (This is a developing story. More updates to follow) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Three dead, several trapped in two landslides at a power project site in Kishtwar

There is good news for the saffron farmers in the Kashmir Valley this year. It's a bumper harvest of saffron in the valley which has brought happiness among the saffron growers of Kashmir. Farmers say that the production is double pf what it was last year.&nbsp;

Thousands of families are associated with saffron farming in the Kashmir region. They&nbsp;are busy plucking the saffron flowers from the fields.

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Kashmir has more than 3700 hectares of land under the cultivation of saffron. The Pampore area in Pulwama is the main hub for growing saffron. However, the spice is now being cultivated across different districts of Kashmir valley as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As compared to last year, the production this year is twice of what it was the previous year. Adequate rain at the proper time helped&nbsp;and that's why we had the best production. This is much better than the previous year. The GI tag is good for us, and will benefit us. It makes sure the purest Kashmiri saffron is sold in the market,'' said Farhad, a saffron farmer.&nbsp;

<img alt="Saffron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="426f095e-a788-458c-a62a-2e17e55a6510" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/se.jpg" />

The tourists visiting the valley are stopping at the saffron farms to see how it is grown. A lot of tourists are buying saffron from the farms as well.

''With the grace of God, the crop is much better this year than what we had hoped for. We have been harvesting for days and you can see this farm was harvested yesterday and today. There is so much to be picked as well. This whole place is dependent on saffron as we grow most of the saffron from the Kashmir region," said Nasir Hamid, another saffron farmer.&nbsp;

"GI tagging is beneficial for us, but we have seen a lot of non-Kashmiri products being sold across India on Kashmir name and that needs to be stopped. Although GI tagging has not reached ground level farmers. The tourists visit our farms, and they see with their own eyes how we grow saffron. This also makes sure they believe the authenticity of the saffron from here. The world's best saffron is grown in the Kashmir valley and demand for it has been good," he added.&nbsp;

The tourists are appreciative of the farmers growing saffron in the valley. It is a unique experience for them to see the saffron farms.

''It is a unique experience, we come from Pune&nbsp;and don't get to see all this. Saffron is expensive and seeing its farming was a great experience. Kashmiri saffron is the best and is known all over the world. It provides great fragrance and taste to dishes," said Vikrant, a tourist.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-migrant-laborers-shot-dead-in-shopian-in-south-kashmir-526413">Two migrant laborers shot dead in Shopian in south Kashmir</a>

Saffron is used on numerous occasions in India. The use of saffron in&nbsp;puja and making sweets for festivals is considered&nbsp;auspicious.&nbsp;

''We have come to see saffron farming as we use it in so many things, while making sweets, and during Puja. It is considered very auspicious. I am seeing the saffron flower for the first time. All sweets like shrikhand are made with it," said Preeti, another tourist.&nbsp;

The saffron farmers have been demanding that the rates of saffron should be revised. With everything becoming expensive in the market and the process involved in growing and processing the saffron becoming costlier as well, the saffron farmers say the rates need to be increased for them to sustain.&nbsp;

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There is good news for the saffron farmers in the Kashmir Valley this year. It's a bumper harvest of saffron in the valley which has brought happiness among the saffron growers of Kashmir.

There is good news for the saffron farmers in the Kashmir Valley this year. It's a bumper harvest of saffron in the valley which has brought happiness among the saffron growers of Kashmir. Farmers say that the production is double pf what it was last year. Thousands of families are associated with saffron farming in the Kashmir region. They are busy plucking the saffron flowers from the fields. Kashmir has more than 3700 hectares of land under the cultivation of saffron. The Pampore area in Pulwama is the main hub for growing saffron. However, the spice is now being cultivated across different districts of Kashmir valley as well. "As compared to last year, the production this year is twice of what it was the previous year. Adequate rain at the proper time helped and that's why we had the best production. This is much better than the previous year. The GI tag is good for us, and will benefit us. It makes sure the purest Kashmiri saffron is sold in the market,'' said Farhad, a saffron farmer. The tourists visiting the valley are stopping at the saffron farms to see how it is grown. A lot of tourists are buying saffron from the farms as well. ''With the grace of God, the crop is much better this year than what we had hoped for. We have been harvesting for days and you can see this farm was harvested yesterday and today. There is so much to be picked as well. This whole place is dependent on saffron as we grow most of the saffron from the Kashmir region," said Nasir Hamid, another saffron farmer. "GI tagging is beneficial for us, but we have seen a lot of non-Kashmiri products being sold across India on Kashmir name and that needs to be stopped. Although GI tagging has not reached ground level farmers. The tourists visit our farms, and they see with their own eyes how we grow saffron. This also makes sure they believe the authenticity of the saffron from here. The world's best saffron is grown in the Kashmir valley and demand for it has been good," he added. The tourists are appreciative of the farmers growing saffron in the valley. It is a unique experience for them to see the saffron farms. ''It is a unique experience, we come from Pune and don't get to see all this. Saffron is expensive and seeing its farming was a great experience. Kashmiri saffron is the best and is known all over the world. It provides great fragrance and taste to dishes," said Vikrant, a tourist. ALSO WATCH: Two migrant laborers shot dead in Shopian in south Kashmir Saffron is used on numerous occasions in India. The use of saffron in puja and making sweets for festivals is considered auspicious. ''We have come to see saffron farming as we use it in so many things, while making sweets, and during Puja. It is considered very auspicious. I am seeing the saffron flower for the first time. All sweets like shrikhand are made with it," said Preeti, another tourist. The saffron farmers have been demanding that the rates of saffron should be revised. With everything becoming expensive in the market and the process involved in growing and processing the saffron becoming costlier as well, the saffron farmers say the rates need to be increased for them to sustain. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Bumper saffron harvest in Kashmir region. Farmers happy with abundant production

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and People's Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti took&nbsp;a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement in which he called the Kashmir youth&nbsp;'icons' in&nbsp;his 'Mann ki Baat' radio speech on Sunday.

"It's funny that the PM is calling the youth of Kashmir as icons for the country," said&nbsp;Mufti.&nbsp;

''The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are on roads demanding jobs and means of livelihood.&nbsp; Youth who got selected in police and other departments after clearing exams&nbsp;are demanding justice as their selection was&nbsp;cancelled due to corruption. I think the PM is adding salt to the wounds of job seekers,'' added Mufti.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bumper-saffron-harvest-in-kashmir-region-farmers-happy-about-crop-production-529431">Read more:&nbsp;Bumper saffron harvest in Kashmir region. Farmers happy with abundant production</a>

While talking about the recent target killings of Kashmiri Pandits and some Kashmiri Pandit families leaving the valley, Mehbooba said, "After 2019, the security situation has reached a stage where Kashmiri Pandits are being continuously targeted in different areas of the valley. Today it's not the regime of National Conference or PDP, the ruling party BJP is both in centre and J&amp;K and despite that Kashmiri Pandits are leaving Kashmir which is big question mark on their governance."

Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-indias-kashmir-valley-turns-white-as-it-witnesses-seasons-first-snowfall-527148">WION Climate Tracker: India's Kashmir Valley turns white as it witnesses season's first snowfall</a>

Mehbooba said she has always taken oath under the Constitution and to save it is her duty.&nbsp;

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Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and People's Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement in which he called the Kashmir youth 'icons' in his 'Mann ki Baat' radio speech on Sunday.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and People's Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement in which he called the Kashmir youth 'icons' in his 'Mann ki Baat' radio speech on Sunday. "It's funny that the PM is calling the youth of Kashmir as icons for the country," said Mufti. ''The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are on roads demanding jobs and means of livelihood. Youth who got selected in police and other departments after clearing exams are demanding justice as their selection was cancelled due to corruption. I think the PM is adding salt to the wounds of job seekers,'' added Mufti. Read more: Bumper saffron harvest in Kashmir region. Farmers happy with abundant production While talking about the recent target killings of Kashmiri Pandits and some Kashmiri Pandit families leaving the valley, Mehbooba said, "After 2019, the security situation has reached a stage where Kashmiri Pandits are being continuously targeted in different areas of the valley. Today it's not the regime of National Conference or PDP, the ruling party BJP is both in centre and J&K and despite that Kashmiri Pandits are leaving Kashmir which is big question mark on their governance." Also watch: WION Climate Tracker: India's Kashmir Valley turns white as it witnesses season's first snowfall Mehbooba said she has always taken oath under the Constitution and to save it is her duty. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM calling Kashmiri youth icons is adding salt to the injuries: Mehbooba Mufti

With the Diwali festival around the corner, a Kashmiri Muslim family is busy making clay&nbsp; lamps for several weeks. Over 15,000 clay lamps have been made and dispatched so far with many being made even now. Omar Kumar and his whole family has been in the business of pottery for decades but this year, they have made Diwali diya's (lamps) in huge numbers for the first time.&nbsp;

Diwali will be celebrated across India on October 24, and the Kumar family has been tirelessly working day and night to make sure the thousands of Diwali lamps reach their destinations. Omar has worked with his family to save the traditional glazed pottery art of Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

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''We got big orders this year, we had around 800 pieces ordered last year and this year it's more than 15,000. And still, orders are pouring in. We can't make as much as the orders have come. We have dispatched over 15,000 Diwali lamps so far. We have sent it to Kulgam from where they are being sent across India. We don't differentiate between Hindus and Muslims, we all live together happily, and we also buy things from other communities. We made good money this Diwali,'' said potter Omar Kumar.&nbsp;

Omar has distributed hundreds of Diwali lamps for free within the Hindu community in his locality. Omar says that buying local is how young entrepreneurs in the country can be helped. After receiving the order, he believes it's a push to the 'Make in India' initiative.&nbsp;

Kashmir has always set an example of brotherhood in the community and this Muslim family making Diwali diyas for the festival has only strengthened the idea once more.

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With the Diwali festival around the corner, a Kashmiri Muslim family is busy making clay lamps for several weeks. Over 15,000 clay lamps have been made and dispatched so far with many being made even now.

With the Diwali festival around the corner, a Kashmiri Muslim family is busy making clay lamps for several weeks. Over 15,000 clay lamps have been made and dispatched so far with many being made even now. Omar Kumar and his whole family has been in the business of pottery for decades but this year, they have made Diwali diya's (lamps) in huge numbers for the first time. Diwali will be celebrated across India on October 24, and the Kumar family has been tirelessly working day and night to make sure the thousands of Diwali lamps reach their destinations. Omar has worked with his family to save the traditional glazed pottery art of Kashmir valley. ''We got big orders this year, we had around 800 pieces ordered last year and this year it's more than 15,000. And still, orders are pouring in. We can't make as much as the orders have come. We have dispatched over 15,000 Diwali lamps so far. We have sent it to Kulgam from where they are being sent across India. We don't differentiate between Hindus and Muslims, we all live together happily, and we also buy things from other communities. We made good money this Diwali,'' said potter Omar Kumar. Omar has distributed hundreds of Diwali lamps for free within the Hindu community in his locality. Omar says that buying local is how young entrepreneurs in the country can be helped. After receiving the order, he believes it's a push to the 'Make in India' initiative. Kashmir has always set an example of brotherhood in the community and this Muslim family making Diwali diyas for the festival has only strengthened the idea once more. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ahead of Diwali, this Kashmiri Muslim family has made and sold thousands of diyas

In a combat operation in Jammu & Kashmir's Anantnag on Oct 9, Indian Army's assault dog Zoom attacked Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. The Indian army said; 'Despite the injuries, Zoom continued his task and this resulted in the neutralisation of two terrorists.

Indian Army’s brave assault canine Zoom lays down his life in the line of duty

Indian Army's assault Dog ''Zoom'' succumbed to injuries at a military hospital in Srinagar. Zoom was injured in the Kokernag encounter with three bullet injuries. Terrorists shot at him, and he was hit with two bullets in his face and one in his leg.&nbsp;

An Indian army official said that Zoom, who was under treatment at the veterinary hospital, died around 12 noon on Thursday.

The official said that Zoom was showing improvement and responding well to the treatment, however, he suddenly started gasping and soon collapsed. He was operated upon the day he was shot during the encounter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-dog-kept-fighting-terrorists-in-kashmir-despite-receiving-two-bullet-injuries-524317" hreflang="en">Army dog kept fighting terrorists in Kashmir despite receiving two bullet injuries</a>

The assault dog was given a task to clear the house where the terrorists were hiding. The encounter took place on October 10 in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district in South Kashmir.&nbsp;

“The dog went inside the house and attacked the militants. During the operation, it was shot at&nbsp;and sustained critical injuries,”&nbsp;said an Indian Army official.&nbsp;

Zoom,&nbsp;a Malinois or Belgian Shepherd, was born in September 2020. He joined the Army’s 28 Army Dog Unit (ADU) in February 2022 and was in service for eight months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Army's assault Dog ''Zoom'' succumbed to injuries at a military hospital in Srinagar. Zoom was injured in the Kokernag encounter with three bullet injuries.

Indian Army's assault Dog ''Zoom'' succumbed to injuries at a military hospital in Srinagar. Zoom was injured in the Kokernag encounter with three bullet injuries. Terrorists shot at him, and he was hit with two bullets in his face and one in his leg. An Indian army official said that Zoom, who was under treatment at the veterinary hospital, died around 12 noon on Thursday. The official said that Zoom was showing improvement and responding well to the treatment, however, he suddenly started gasping and soon collapsed. He was operated upon the day he was shot during the encounter. Also read | Army dog kept fighting terrorists in Kashmir despite receiving two bullet injuries The assault dog was given a task to clear the house where the terrorists were hiding. The encounter took place on October 10 in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district in South Kashmir. “The dog went inside the house and attacked the militants. During the operation, it was shot at and sustained critical injuries,” said an Indian Army official. Zoom, a Malinois or Belgian Shepherd, was born in September 2020. He joined the Army’s 28 Army Dog Unit (ADU) in February 2022 and was in service for eight months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Army’s assault dog 'Zoom' succumbs to gunshot injuries sustained in terror operation

The US ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Monday to plant a sapling at the 'University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK)'. During this visit Blome mentioned PoK as 'Azad Jammu and Kashmir' which is anathema to New Delhi as it holds that the region was forcibly occupied by Pakistan in 1947.

US envoy to Pak Donald Blome calls PoK 'Azad Jammu & Kashmir'

IIndian state Jammu and Kashmir's DG Prisons, Hemant Kumar Lohia, was found dead under suspicious circumstances at a house in the Udaywala area of Jammu. The police have suspected murder as his domestic help is currently absconding and teams have been formed to nab him.

India: J&K top cop Hemant Kumar Lohia found dead, police suspect murder

The BJP in Jammu and Kashmir announced the visit of Union home minister Amit Shah to the state on October 1 and 2. The home minister will be addressing mega rallies in Rajouri district of Jammu region on October 1 and Baramulla district of Kashmir region on October 2. 
 
BJP's Kashmir affairs in charge and former minister Sunil Sharma on Saturday made a formal announcement of Amit Shah's visit. The mega rally in North Kashmir's Baramulla district would be attended by people across the Kashmir region.&nbsp;

“The home minister will be addressing the rally and talking about the various developmental projects undertaken by the government. He will also talk about what the central government is doing on various fronts for the development of J&amp;K,” said Sharma.&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-gets-its-first-multiplex-to-be-opened-to-public-by-september-end-518021">:&nbsp;Kashmir gets its first multiplex, to be opened to public by September end</a>

While talking about elections, Sharma said, "It's a decision to be made by the Election Commission of India, and we (BJP) as a party are always ready for elections here.''

The home minister will also be laying the foundation stone of the first cancer hospital in the Kashmir valley. The hospital is being constructed by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board.&nbsp;

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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>&nbsp;

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The BJP in Jammu and Kashmir announced the visit of Union home minister Amit Shah to the state on October 1 and 2. The home minister will be addressing mega rallies in Rajouri district of Jammu region on October 1 and Baramulla district of Kashmir region on October 2.

The BJP in Jammu and Kashmir announced the visit of Union home minister Amit Shah to the state on October 1 and 2. The home minister will be addressing mega rallies in Rajouri district of Jammu region on October 1 and Baramulla district of Kashmir region on October 2. BJP's Kashmir affairs in charge and former minister Sunil Sharma on Saturday made a formal announcement of Amit Shah's visit. The mega rally in North Kashmir's Baramulla district would be attended by people across the Kashmir region. “The home minister will be addressing the rally and talking about the various developmental projects undertaken by the government. He will also talk about what the central government is doing on various fronts for the development of J&K,” said Sharma. Read more: Kashmir gets its first multiplex, to be opened to public by September end While talking about elections, Sharma said, "It's a decision to be made by the Election Commission of India, and we (BJP) as a party are always ready for elections here.'' The home minister will also be laying the foundation stone of the first cancer hospital in the Kashmir valley. The hospital is being constructed by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Home minister Amit Shah to visit Jammu & Kashmir, address mega rallies

With improvement in the security situation in the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Navy has revived the Naval training for National Cadets Corps (NCC) after a gap of 33 years. Over 100 cadets of the NCC attended the training on the Manasbal Lake in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district.&nbsp;

The first training activity has been organised for 100 senior NCC cadets, boys and girls, from all districts of the Union territory. The camp will be running till September 26 and prepare the cadets for the forthcoming national level NCC camp at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh commencing on October 2.&nbsp;

<img alt="NCC cadets" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1e838c6-70cb-495c-9724-05f2c195356f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%283%29_1.jpeg" />

''I think it's a momentous occasion that after a gap of 33 years, the NCC cadets of Kashmir region are fortunate to be part of this camp which has started, and will help them train in the naval training activities very close to their homes. Before this, they had to go to Jammu. In the late 1980s, security situation turned grim and we had to shift our training areas. Now&nbsp; with restarting of this exercise at Manasbal, I am sure the NCC training in the valley will get a great fillip,'' said Brigadier K S Kalsi, group commander, NCC cadets.

Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-nine-dead-several-injured-in-an-accident-in-poonch-area-of-jammu-515983">India: At least 12 dead, several injured in bus accident in Poonch area of Jammu</a>

"The Naval training camps have a number of activities, but this one is specially preparing cadets of J&amp;K and Ladakh for the upcoming national level NCC camp at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh commencing on October 2. These cadets are being trained in boat pulling, sailing, ship modelling and signalling. All of them are very important naval training activities. I have no doubt that all the youth who are going to see these events upfront, or through the media in Kashmir will get motivated,'' added Brigadier Kalsi.

<img alt="NCC cadets" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26f4f663-0994-4ae3-b820-72d20ab63bcb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%281%29.jpg" />

Kashmir is gifted with numerous water bodies and with Manasbal training facility, the NCC cadets of Kashmir will not require to travel to Jammu for training and this will be a big motivation for students to volunteer for NCC. The cadets were extremely happy that the camp is being organised in the valley after decades.

''This training camp has been organised in the valley after a long time, a lot of children from various colleges have come from various parts of the Union territory. I would want other children to come and be a part of these camps. We are being trained in boat pulling, swimming, sailing, and drills. The Navy officers motivate us to join the Indian Navy,'' said Ovais Rashid, a cadet.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bollywood-returns-to-jammu-kashmir-after-decades-150-film-crews-allowed-to-shoot-515429">&nbsp;Winds of change : Bollywood returns to Kashmir after 32 years</a>

The main reason for these cadets to volunteer for the training camps is to join the Indian armed forces like Army, Navy, and Air Force.&nbsp;

''It's a great opportunity for us to be a part of this camp. Due to security reasons, these camps were not held in the Kashmir valley but now they have been restarted and we will get to learn a lot. I want to join the Indian Navy and that's why I have joined NCC,'' said Kiran Chaudhary, a cadet.

In the last three decades, the training was mostly provided to these cadets at Nagrota and Mansar lake in the Jammu region due to terrorist activities, causing huge inconvenience to the cadets from Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

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With improvement in the security situation in the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Navy has revived the Naval training for National Cadets Corps (NCC) after a gap of 33 years.

With improvement in the security situation in the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Navy has revived the Naval training for National Cadets Corps (NCC) after a gap of 33 years. Over 100 cadets of the NCC attended the training on the Manasbal Lake in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district. The first training activity has been organised for 100 senior NCC cadets, boys and girls, from all districts of the Union territory. The camp will be running till September 26 and prepare the cadets for the forthcoming national level NCC camp at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh commencing on October 2. ''I think it's a momentous occasion that after a gap of 33 years, the NCC cadets of Kashmir region are fortunate to be part of this camp which has started, and will help them train in the naval training activities very close to their homes. Before this, they had to go to Jammu. In the late 1980s, security situation turned grim and we had to shift our training areas. Now with restarting of this exercise at Manasbal, I am sure the NCC training in the valley will get a great fillip,'' said Brigadier K S Kalsi, group commander, NCC cadets. Read more: India: At least 12 dead, several injured in bus accident in Poonch area of Jammu "The Naval training camps have a number of activities, but this one is specially preparing cadets of J&K and Ladakh for the upcoming national level NCC camp at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh commencing on October 2. These cadets are being trained in boat pulling, sailing, ship modelling and signalling. All of them are very important naval training activities. I have no doubt that all the youth who are going to see these events upfront, or through the media in Kashmir will get motivated,'' added Brigadier Kalsi. Kashmir is gifted with numerous water bodies and with Manasbal training facility, the NCC cadets of Kashmir will not require to travel to Jammu for training and this will be a big motivation for students to volunteer for NCC. The cadets were extremely happy that the camp is being organised in the valley after decades. ''This training camp has been organised in the valley after a long time, a lot of children from various colleges have come from various parts of the Union territory. I would want other children to come and be a part of these camps. We are being trained in boat pulling, swimming, sailing, and drills. The Navy officers motivate us to join the Indian Navy,'' said Ovais Rashid, a cadet. Read more: Winds of change : Bollywood returns to Kashmir after 32 years The main reason for these cadets to volunteer for the training camps is to join the Indian armed forces like Army, Navy, and Air Force. ''It's a great opportunity for us to be a part of this camp. Due to security reasons, these camps were not held in the Kashmir valley but now they have been restarted and we will get to learn a lot. I want to join the Indian Navy and that's why I have joined NCC,'' said Kiran Chaudhary, a cadet. In the last three decades, the training was mostly provided to these cadets at Nagrota and Mansar lake in the Jammu region due to terrorist activities, causing huge inconvenience to the cadets from Kashmir Valley. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian Navy resumes training for NCC cadets in Kashmir valley after 33 years

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