With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district. Every shop in the markets is fully packed amid shopping for clothes, baked goods, and food. &nbsp;

After fasting for the whole month, the joy of Eid holds a lot of importance for Muslims across the world. And that is why the markets are alive with the hustle and bustle of eager shoppers. With markets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, food and scents.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eid-ul-fitr-2024-crescent-not-seen-in-saudi-arabia-eid-now-on-wednesday-709157">Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday</a>

“There is a lot of rush, and huge numbers of people are thronging the markets. We are having a good sale and it's all for Eid. We are hopeful that this Eid will bring a lot of happiness and peace to the Kashmir Valley specially for the future generations. The business is going great as you can see people are shopping in every market,” said Omar Wani, a shopkeeper.&nbsp;

The markets of the valley are packed to the brim.&nbsp;Preparations for the celebration of Eid are going on in the Kashmir valley. The girls and women are seen applying mehndi on their hands.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-warns-beijing-against-renaming-places-arunachal-pradesh-709516">Rajnath Singh slams Beijing on renaming row, says ‘What if we change names of Chinese provinces’</a>

Eid is a day of happiness and peace, and that is why people take care of each other’s happiness on this beautiful festival. The poor in the community are helped so that they can celebrate the festival with joy as well.&nbsp;

“There is a lot of rush in the markets. Eid is specially for kids. Eid is celebrated with a lot of love. We also need to take care of the poor and make sure their Eid is good as well. We also should make sure those who have nothing should be provided everything. Eid shopping is going great this year,” said Mir Mohammad Yasin, a dealer.&nbsp;

Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced that Shawaal crescent moon has been sighted hence, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Wednesday (Apr&nbsp;10) in J&amp;K.

With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district.

With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district. Every shop in the markets is fully packed amid shopping for clothes, baked goods, and food. After fasting for the whole month, the joy of Eid holds a lot of importance for Muslims across the world. And that is why the markets are alive with the hustle and bustle of eager shoppers. With markets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, food and scents. Also Read | Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday “There is a lot of rush, and huge numbers of people are thronging the markets. We are having a good sale and it's all for Eid. We are hopeful that this Eid will bring a lot of happiness and peace to the Kashmir Valley specially for the future generations. The business is going great as you can see people are shopping in every market,” said Omar Wani, a shopkeeper. The markets of the valley are packed to the brim. Preparations for the celebration of Eid are going on in the Kashmir valley. The girls and women are seen applying mehndi on their hands. Also Read | Rajnath Singh slams Beijing on renaming row, says ‘What if we change names of Chinese provinces’ Eid is a day of happiness and peace, and that is why people take care of each other’s happiness on this beautiful festival. The poor in the community are helped so that they can celebrate the festival with joy as well. “There is a lot of rush in the markets. Eid is specially for kids. Eid is celebrated with a lot of love. We also need to take care of the poor and make sure their Eid is good as well. We also should make sure those who have nothing should be provided everything. Eid shopping is going great this year,” said Mir Mohammad Yasin, a dealer. Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced that Shawaal crescent moon has been sighted hence, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Wednesday (Apr 10) in J&K.

India: Eid preparations in full swing across Kashmir Valley

Bilquis Mir, known as the aqua woman of Kashmir Valley, has added one more feather in her cap. Bilquis, a water sports champion of Kayaking & Canoeing from the Kashmir Valley has become the first woman from India to be a jury member at the forthcoming Summer Olympics in Paris.

Kashmir: Bilquis Mir scripts history, first Indian female jury member at Paris 2024

India's Home Minister Amit Shah hit out at Congress on Saturday (Apr 6) over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remarks on Kashmir during a rally.

Shah said that it was the grand old party's "Italian culture" that hindered its understanding of India.

The Union home minister took to his official X handle and said that it was extremely shameful to see that the Congress party was asking the people "Kashmir se kya waasta hai?" (What's the deal with Kashmir?)&nbsp;

"I would like to remind the Congress party that J&amp;K is an integral part of India, and every state and citizen has the right over J&amp;K, just as the people of J&amp;K have the right over the rest of India. The Congress doesn't know that many brave sons of Rajasthan have sacrificed their lives for peace and security in Kashmir. But it is not merely the fault of the Congress leaders. It is mostly the Italian culture of the Congress party that is to blame for not understanding the very idea of India. Such statements hurt every patriotic citizen who cares for the unity and integrity of the nation. People will certainly answer Congress," he said on X.

"And for the kind information of the Congress, it was not Article 371, but Article 370, that was abrogated by the Modi government. However, it is only expected of Congress to make such horrendous mistakes. Such blunders made by it have haunted our nation for decades now," Shah added.

Kharge on Saturday had slammed&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi for mentioning Article 370 abrogation in Rajasthan's Churu.&nbsp;He said, "They (BJP) are coming here and saying that they removed 371. What does it have to do with the people here? It's okay if you go and speak about that in Jammu and Kashmir."

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It is shameful to hear that the Congress party is asking, "Kashmir se kya waasta hai?" 
 
I would like to remind the Congress party that J&amp;K is an integral part of India, and every state and citizen has the right over J&amp;K, just as the people of J&amp;K have the right over the rest of… <a href="https://t.co/cFeO80XBxl">pic.twitter.com/cFeO80XBxl</a>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-ec-notice-aaps-atishi-slams-ed-asks-probe-agency-to-take-action-against-bjp-over-money-laundering-708397">After EC notice, AAP’s Atishi slams ED, asks agency to take action against BJP over ‘money laundering’</a>

<h2>PM Modi slams Congress' manifesto</h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his rally in Ajmer on Saturday launched a scathing attack against Congress and slammed the party's manifesto calling it a "bundle of lies". &nbsp;

He also said that every page of the document "smells of breaking India into pieces".

"Yesterday the Congress Party released its manifesto, a bundle of lies. Every page of this smells of breaking India into pieces. The same thinking is reflected in the Congress manifesto as was present in the Muslim League at the time of independence. Congress wants to impose the views of the Muslim League of that time on India today," PM Modi said while addressing a rally in Rajasthan's Ajmer.

The Indian prime minister claimed that today's Congress is "bereft of principles and policies".

"Congress of today is bereft of principles and policies. Today Congress has neither principles nor policies left. It was apparent that the party had outsourced everything," he said.

"The manifesto released by Congress reflects the same thinking that was prevalent in the Muslim League during the freedom struggle. The Congress manifesto completely bears the imprint of the Muslim League and the little remaining party," the PM added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Home Minister Amit Shah hit out at Congress on Saturday (Apr 6) over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remarks on Kashmir during a rally. Shah said that it was the grand old party's "Italian culture" that hindered its understanding of India.

India's Home Minister Amit Shah hit out at Congress on Saturday (Apr 6) over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remarks on Kashmir during a rally. Shah said that it was the grand old party's "Italian culture" that hindered its understanding of India. The Union home minister took to his official X handle and said that it was extremely shameful to see that the Congress party was asking the people "Kashmir se kya waasta hai?" (What's the deal with Kashmir?) "I would like to remind the Congress party that J&K is an integral part of India, and every state and citizen has the right over J&K, just as the people of J&K have the right over the rest of India. The Congress doesn't know that many brave sons of Rajasthan have sacrificed their lives for peace and security in Kashmir. But it is not merely the fault of the Congress leaders. It is mostly the Italian culture of the Congress party that is to blame for not understanding the very idea of India. Such statements hurt every patriotic citizen who cares for the unity and integrity of the nation. People will certainly answer Congress," he said on X. "And for the kind information of the Congress, it was not Article 371, but Article 370, that was abrogated by the Modi government. However, it is only expected of Congress to make such horrendous mistakes. Such blunders made by it have haunted our nation for decades now," Shah added. Kharge on Saturday had slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for mentioning Article 370 abrogation in Rajasthan's Churu. He said, "They (BJP) are coming here and saying that they removed 371. What does it have to do with the people here? It's okay if you go and speak about that in Jammu and Kashmir." It is shameful to hear that the Congress party is asking, "Kashmir se kya waasta hai?" I would like to remind the Congress party that J&K is an integral part of India, and every state and citizen has the right over J&K, just as the people of J&K have the right over the rest of… pic.twitter.com/cFeO80XBxl — Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) April 6, 2024 × Also read: After EC notice, AAP’s Atishi slams ED, asks agency to take action against BJP over ‘money laundering’ PM Modi slams Congress' manifesto Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his rally in Ajmer on Saturday launched a scathing attack against Congress and slammed the party's manifesto calling it a "bundle of lies". He also said that every page of the document "smells of breaking India into pieces". "Yesterday the Congress Party released its manifesto, a bundle of lies. Every page of this smells of breaking India into pieces. The same thinking is reflected in the Congress manifesto as was present in the Muslim League at the time of independence. Congress wants to impose the views of the Muslim League of that time on India today," PM Modi said while addressing a rally in Rajasthan's Ajmer. The Indian prime minister claimed that today's Congress is "bereft of principles and policies". "Congress of today is bereft of principles and policies. Today Congress has neither principles nor policies left. It was apparent that the party had outsourced everything," he said. "The manifesto released by Congress reflects the same thinking that was prevalent in the Muslim League during the freedom struggle. The Congress manifesto completely bears the imprint of the Muslim League and the little remaining party," the PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election: Home Minister Amit Shah slams Congress chief Kharge for his remarks on Kashmir

Security forces on Friday foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, killing one terrorist, officials said. 
Alert troops of the army noticed suspicious movement along the LoC at Sabura Nala Rustam in the Uri area of the district and challenged the intruders, they said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-rebuffs-senior-un-officials-free-and-fair-remark-on-elections-in-india-707865">Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India</a>

However, the intruders opened firing which was retaliated by the soldiers, resulting in the killing of at least one terrorist, they added.

The operation is in progress, officials said.

Security forces on Friday foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, killing one terrorist, officials said.

Security forces on Friday foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, killing one terrorist, officials said. Alert troops of the army noticed suspicious movement along the LoC at Sabura Nala Rustam in the Uri area of the district and challenged the intruders, they said. Also read: Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India However, the intruders opened firing which was retaliated by the soldiers, resulting in the killing of at least one terrorist, they added. The operation is in progress, officials said.

1 terrorist killed as army foils infiltration attempt along LoC in Kashmir

In a historic milestone, the Gulmarg Gondola in Jammu and Kashmir broke record with over one million tourists, generating revenue exceeding Rs 110 crore. It shows how the tourist footfall in Kashmir valley has increased, thanks to efforts being taken by the government to develop a region, that has for long been marred by conflict.

Gravitas | Kashmir Tourism Boom: Over 1 Million Visitors Took Gulmarg Gondola

Located between Dal Lake and the Zabarwan hills, this year over 1.7 million tulips of 73 varieties have been planted in the garden.

India: Kashmir Tulip Garden open for visitors, nature lovers get treat of flowers

India: Kashmir's Tulip garden is open for visitors

Kashmir's Tulip garden is open for visitors

Kashmir: Nature lovers get a treat of flowers, Tulip Garden open for tourists

It's Springtime and also the season when the whole Kashmir Valley turns into a floral wonderland. While thousands of tourists are visiting Kashmir's famous gardens, it's the mustard fields that have become a new attraction for tourists this year. Hundreds of tourists are visiting various mustard fields in the Kashmir region.

India: Mustard fields become new tourist attraction in Kashmir Valley

Will AFSPA be removed from Kashmir soon? Home Minister of India, Amit Shah, announced on Tuesday that assembly elections will soon be held in Jammu and Kashmir. This time, democracy will not be limited to a few families, but rather it will be a people's democracy. He also announced that the Indian government will consider revoking the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which has been implemented in Jammu and Kashmir for 34 years, and will pull back troops from the union territory.

Gravitas: Will AFSPA be removed from Kashmir soon? Modi Govt to consider troop pullback: Amit Shah

Gravitas | Will AFSPA be removed from Kashmir soon? Modi Govt to consider troop pullback: Amit Shah

The Persian New Year is considered to be the first day of Spring in the Kashmir valley and on the same day hundreds of people gather at the Leech Therapy Centres.

Kashmir: Leech therapy popularity grows, hundreds make beeline for therapy

Asia's largest tulip garden on the banks of the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar is set to open its gates to visitors this weekend. 68 tulip varieties, including 5 new ones added this year, promise to be a huge draw for tourists as well as locals. A record 17 lakh tulip bulbs spread across 55 hectares of land promises a wonderland and a feast for the senses. On Inside South Asia, an exclusive curtain-raiser from our correspondent in Srinagar Idris Lone.

Srinagar's iconic tulip garden - The annual treat

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million during the month of Ramadan alone. It also became one of the most sold food items during this month.

Kashmir: Demand for dates skyrocket in valley, daily sales of Dates touches over $360,000

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million&nbsp;during the month of Ramadan alone.&nbsp;It also became&nbsp;one of the most sold food items during this month.

While the demand for dates during the month of Ramadan across the Kashmir Valley is huge, dealers have brought over a dozen varieties of dates this time. People are thronging the markets specially for buying dates and some dealers are already out of stock.

With dates worth over $360K&nbsp;sold per day during the month of Ramadan, the dealers are sure that this year the date business will break all the previous market records.

''Ramadan is a blessed month for us. Dates are very pious for us as our prophet used to have them. This month people buy a lot of dates. We all break our fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We have sold so much in&nbsp;this Ramadan that our supplies are finished. We have a huge variety of dates in the market. Very nice season this Ramadan." said Irfan Ahmad, a dates dealer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerias-islamic-police-arrest-non-fasting-muslims-during-ramadan-699803">Also read |&nbsp;Nigeria’s Islamic police arrest non-fasting Muslims during Ramadan</a>

In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically including dates. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramadan. The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market.

''In the month of Ramadan, we have brought multiple types of dates. The people buy dates in huge quantities during the month of Ramadan. Kalmi, Medjoul and Amber and Ajwa are available with us. We break our fast with dates. Around 90 per cent of people break the fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We get a lot of customers from across the Valley and this year we have had a huge market,'' said Sajad Ahmad, a dates dealer.

Several other foods are also made specially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custard, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley. But dates still remain a must in every household.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ramadan 2024: In India, Ramadan to begin on March 12

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ramadan-2024-in-india-ramadan-to-begin-on-march-12-698971/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''This is a blessed month of Ramadan. There is a huge demand for dates in the market and this time they have sold like anything. We have so many types of dates available in the market. We are getting dates from Jordan. People are buying in huge quantities and now they want different types for its benefits. Mabroom and Kalmi and Medjoul are favourites among Kashmiris," said Mehraj Uddin,&nbsp;a dates dealer.

Dates are said to have multiple health benefits for the people fasting.

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million during the month of Ramadan alone.

As the Muslim community across the world is observing the holy month of Ramadan, the favourite food to break the fast remains dates. Markets across Kashmir witnessed business of over $12 million during the month of Ramadan alone. It also became one of the most sold food items during this month. While the demand for dates during the month of Ramadan across the Kashmir Valley is huge, dealers have brought over a dozen varieties of dates this time. People are thronging the markets specially for buying dates and some dealers are already out of stock. With dates worth over $360K sold per day during the month of Ramadan, the dealers are sure that this year the date business will break all the previous market records. ''Ramadan is a blessed month for us. Dates are very pious for us as our prophet used to have them. This month people buy a lot of dates. We all break our fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We have sold so much in this Ramadan that our supplies are finished. We have a huge variety of dates in the market. Very nice season this Ramadan." said Irfan Ahmad, a dates dealer. Also read | Nigeria’s Islamic police arrest non-fasting Muslims during Ramadan In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically including dates. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramadan. The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market. ''In the month of Ramadan, we have brought multiple types of dates. The people buy dates in huge quantities during the month of Ramadan. Kalmi, Medjoul and Amber and Ajwa are available with us. We break our fast with dates. Around 90 per cent of people break the fast during the month of Ramadan with dates. We get a lot of customers from across the Valley and this year we have had a huge market,'' said Sajad Ahmad, a dates dealer. Several other foods are also made specially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custard, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley. But dates still remain a must in every household. Also watch | Ramadan 2024: In India, Ramadan to begin on March 12 ''This is a blessed month of Ramadan. There is a huge demand for dates in the market and this time they have sold like anything. We have so many types of dates available in the market. We are getting dates from Jordan. People are buying in huge quantities and now they want different types for its benefits. Mabroom and Kalmi and Medjoul are favourites among Kashmiris," said Mehraj Uddin, a dates dealer. Dates are said to have multiple health benefits for the people fasting.

Kashmir: Dates become most-sold food item during Ramadan as sales surge

An Indian Kashmiri Muslim activist Javed Ahmad Beigh on Friday (Mar 15) blasted Pakistan for its treatment of minorities while speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Highlighting the plight of Pashtun Shias who reside in the Kurram district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Beigh said they were being treated by Islamabad in the “most inhumanly way possible”.

On Saturday (Mar 16), he posted the video of his address on X, along with a long message with the header: “AN INDIAN KASHMIRI MUSLIM BLOWING PAKISTANI PROPAGANDA TO SMITHEREENS AT UNITED NATIONS”

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AN INDIAN KASHMIRI MUSLIM BLOWING PAKISTANI PROPAGANDA TO SMITHEREENS AT UNITED NATIONS 
 
Dear Friends, 
 
I am extremely pleased to share video of my intervention at 55th session of United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, exposing Punjabi Muslim run &amp;… <a href="https://t.co/kx5RurJ1qb">pic.twitter.com/kx5RurJ1qb</a>
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“I am extremely pleased to share video of my intervention at 55th session of United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, exposing Punjabi Muslim run &amp; dominated PAKISTAN on its dubious, bloody, violent, horrifying and pathetic record of treating PAKISTAN's SHIA MUSLIM minority in humanly worst possible manner,” Beigh wrote on X.

“As a member of India's Kashmir Valley's 1.5 million strong Shia Muslim community, which is acutely aware of the mistreatment of Shia Muslims in Pakistan, I forcefully and vociferously raised issue of the plight of Shia Muslims in Pakistan by highlighting extremely horrifying condition of Pakistan's lesser known PASHTUN SHIA MUSLIMS of PARACHINAR which is located in Kurram district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjsqeDb_fqEAxXbZ2wGHSwfB38QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-jammu-and-kashmir-to-have-over-34-lakh-first-time-voters-700052" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-jammu-and-kashmir-to-have-over-34-lakh-first-time-voters-700052&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjsqeDb_fqEAxXbZ2wGHSwfB38QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters</a>

“Kashmir's Shias (nearly 20% of total Kashmiri Muslim population) are very well aware of the miserable plight of Pakistani Shia Muslim communities like Pashtun Shias of Parachinar, Hazara Shias of Balochistan and Shias &amp; Ismailis of Pakistan Occupied Gilgit and Baltistan,” he wrote in his message.

“It is hightime that world must be made aware of the hell that Punjabi Muslim controlled Pakistan has become for its Shia Muslims. As an Indian Kashmiri Muslim, I am proud and delighted to take Pakistan to task for pushing its Shia Muslim population to unending cycle of death and destruction,” he stressed.

During his speech at the UNHRC, he highlighted that even Pakistan’s judiciary has become immune to violence committed against Shias.

He also presented a stark contrast between India’s ‘gifted’ land of Jammu and Kashmir, where interfaith harmony, progress and economic well-being of all have taken firm roots, and the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In his speech, Javed Ahmad Beigh threw light on the fierce sectarian war that erupted between Sunni Pashtun militants and Shia Bangash tribesmen in which more than 3,000 people were killed.

He concluded his speech by saying that the increasing extremism in Pakistan was all set to make the future further bleaker for the Shias of Parachinar.

An Indian Kashmiri Muslim activist Javed Ahmad Beigh on Friday (Mar 15) blasted Pakistan for its treatment of minorities while speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

An Indian Kashmiri Muslim activist Javed Ahmad Beigh on Friday (Mar 15) blasted Pakistan for its treatment of minorities while speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Highlighting the plight of Pashtun Shias who reside in the Kurram district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Beigh said they were being treated by Islamabad in the “most inhumanly way possible”. On Saturday (Mar 16), he posted the video of his address on X, along with a long message with the header: “AN INDIAN KASHMIRI MUSLIM BLOWING PAKISTANI PROPAGANDA TO SMITHEREENS AT UNITED NATIONS” AN INDIAN KASHMIRI MUSLIM BLOWING PAKISTANI PROPAGANDA TO SMITHEREENS AT UNITED NATIONS Dear Friends, I am extremely pleased to share video of my intervention at 55th session of United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, exposing Punjabi Muslim run &… pic.twitter.com/kx5RurJ1qb — Javed Beigh (@JavedBeigh) March 15, 2024 × “I am extremely pleased to share video of my intervention at 55th session of United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, exposing Punjabi Muslim run & dominated PAKISTAN on its dubious, bloody, violent, horrifying and pathetic record of treating PAKISTAN's SHIA MUSLIM minority in humanly worst possible manner,” Beigh wrote on X. “As a member of India's Kashmir Valley's 1.5 million strong Shia Muslim community, which is acutely aware of the mistreatment of Shia Muslims in Pakistan, I forcefully and vociferously raised issue of the plight of Shia Muslims in Pakistan by highlighting extremely horrifying condition of Pakistan's lesser known PASHTUN SHIA MUSLIMS of PARACHINAR which is located in Kurram district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province,” he added. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters “Kashmir's Shias (nearly 20% of total Kashmiri Muslim population) are very well aware of the miserable plight of Pakistani Shia Muslim communities like Pashtun Shias of Parachinar, Hazara Shias of Balochistan and Shias & Ismailis of Pakistan Occupied Gilgit and Baltistan,” he wrote in his message. “It is hightime that world must be made aware of the hell that Punjabi Muslim controlled Pakistan has become for its Shia Muslims. As an Indian Kashmiri Muslim, I am proud and delighted to take Pakistan to task for pushing its Shia Muslim population to unending cycle of death and destruction,” he stressed. During his speech at the UNHRC, he highlighted that even Pakistan’s judiciary has become immune to violence committed against Shias. He also presented a stark contrast between India’s ‘gifted’ land of Jammu and Kashmir, where interfaith harmony, progress and economic well-being of all have taken firm roots, and the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In his speech, Javed Ahmad Beigh threw light on the fierce sectarian war that erupted between Sunni Pashtun militants and Shia Bangash tribesmen in which more than 3,000 people were killed. He concluded his speech by saying that the increasing extremism in Pakistan was all set to make the future further bleaker for the Shias of Parachinar.

Watch: Kashmiri activist slams Pakistan at UNHRC over plight of Pashtun Shias

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening.&nbsp;

With spring on, The Tulip Garden located below the Zabarwan Hills and overlooking the world-famous Dal Lake, is looking no less than a floral wonderland. The floriculture department is also planning a Tulip festival in the month of April. And the gardeners are making sure that most of the tulips bloom before the opening of the Garden.&nbsp;

''Tulip Garden is an internationally recognised garden and it plays an important role for the tourism sector in Kashmir Valley. We always try to add new attractions to the garden every year and this time too we have added floral surprises this year. We have introduced new vibrant colour schemes with five new varieties and apart from that we have added daffodils and hyacinths. 1.7 million tulips will be blooming in the garden this year'', said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. &nbsp;

Hundreds of gardeners and staff are working day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. And this year the floriculture department says all the previous records of tourist footfall will be broken.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-120-stranded-passengers-airlifted-from-snow-bound-kanzalwan-in-jk-701257">Also read: India: 120 stranded passengers airlifted from snow-bound Kanzalwan in J&amp;K</a>

The Tulip Garden has become extremely famous to people across India. A lot of travellers plan their travels to the valley during the Tulip bloom. This year the floriculture department has planted other varieties of flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, muscari and cyclamens to make the garden look more colourful.

''We have had overwhelming tourist footfall last year, The garden opens for a month and we saw 3.72 lakh&nbsp;visitors last year and this year we are hopeful that we will break all the previous records this season. Our planting pattern depends on the blooming period and we have given a schematic planting of these tulips this year in coming years we will make sure that the garden's longevity expands and from next year onwards we will have cherry blossoms and the garden will be kept open during the month of May as well,'' said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. &nbsp;

The garden was built in 2008 during the term of then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Azad. The garden was made to attract more tourists to the Valley during the spring season. Last year, the garden was included in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia's largest Tulip Garden.&nbsp;

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening.

With over 1.7 million Tulips of 73 varieties, Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening. With spring on, The Tulip Garden located below the Zabarwan Hills and overlooking the world-famous Dal Lake, is looking no less than a floral wonderland. The floriculture department is also planning a Tulip festival in the month of April. And the gardeners are making sure that most of the tulips bloom before the opening of the Garden. ''Tulip Garden is an internationally recognised garden and it plays an important role for the tourism sector in Kashmir Valley. We always try to add new attractions to the garden every year and this time too we have added floral surprises this year. We have introduced new vibrant colour schemes with five new varieties and apart from that we have added daffodils and hyacinths. 1.7 million tulips will be blooming in the garden this year'', said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. Hundreds of gardeners and staff are working day and night to ready the garden for the public. It takes around six months to get the garden ready and huge planning is done much earlier before the opening of the garden. And this year the floriculture department says all the previous records of tourist footfall will be broken. Also read: India: 120 stranded passengers airlifted from snow-bound Kanzalwan in J&K The Tulip Garden has become extremely famous to people across India. A lot of travellers plan their travels to the valley during the Tulip bloom. This year the floriculture department has planted other varieties of flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, muscari and cyclamens to make the garden look more colourful. ''We have had overwhelming tourist footfall last year, The garden opens for a month and we saw 3.72 lakh visitors last year and this year we are hopeful that we will break all the previous records this season. Our planting pattern depends on the blooming period and we have given a schematic planting of these tulips this year in coming years we will make sure that the garden's longevity expands and from next year onwards we will have cherry blossoms and the garden will be kept open during the month of May as well,'' said Asif Ahmad Itoo, Floriculture Officer. The garden was built in 2008 during the term of then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Azad. The garden was made to attract more tourists to the Valley during the spring season. Last year, the garden was included in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia's largest Tulip Garden.

India: Asia's largest Tulip garden in Srinagar set to be thrown open next week

Asia's Largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Kashmir is all set to be thrown open to the public from March 23. Hundreds of gardeners are working tirelessly to make sure the garden is in full bloom at the time of the opening.

Srinagar's Tulip garden to open for visitors on March 23

An Indian Kashmiri Muslim and a socio-political activist Javed Ahmad Beigh on Friday (Mar 15) blasted Pakistan for its treatment of minorities while speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). While raising the plight of Pashtun Shias, who reside in the Kurram district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Beigh said they were being treated by Islamabad in the “most inhumanly way possible”. Watch to know more!

Kashmiri activist slams Pakistan at UNHRC for its treatment of minorities

Multiple Avalanches hit the northern part of Kashmir Valley. Although no loss of life or property has been reported it is added to the already accumulated snow in the area with many roads having been blocked in the Gurez sector. The locals are now demanding early snow clearance of the roads. Watch to know more!

India: Avalanches hit northern Kashmir, key roads blocked in Gurez Valley

Multiple Avalanches hit the northern part of Kashmir Valley. Although no loss of life or property has been reported it is added to the already accumulated snow in the area with many roads having been blocked in the Gurez sector. The locals are now demanding early snow clearance of the roads.

India: Snow accumulation blocks key roads in Kashmir's Bandipora district

With the Lok Sabha polls round the corner, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kashmir. This is his first visit to the Valley since the abrogation of Article 370. PM Modi unveiled multiple development projects in Srinagar and addressed a rally.

India Elections 2024: PM Modi unveils infrastructure projects in Kashmir

This week Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the region of Kashmir. There are two things here one it comes weeks ahead of national elections and it was the first time he visited the region since the abrogation of Article 370. Will PM Modi's Kashmir visit positively influence elections in the region.

Indian elections 2024: Will PM Modi's Kashmir visit positively influence elections?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a significant rally in Srinagar on March 7, marking his first visit since the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Modi in Kashmir: Indian PM Modi to unveil infrastructure projects, address rally ahead of elections

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a significant rally in Srinagar on March 7, marking his first visit since the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Indian elections 2024 | Modi in Kashmir: Jammu & Kashmir after abrogation of Article 370

Modi in Kashmir: PM Narendra Modi unveils infrastructure projects in Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir police is hosting the 23rd all India Police water sports championship. Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the event in Srinagar today (March 4).

Kashmir: J&K police hosts 23rd all India Police water sports championship

Ghulam Nabi Dar, a 72-year-old master craftsman from Kashmir is honoured with the Padma Shri for his contribution to wood carving. Watch in for more details!

India: Kashmiri artisan Ghulam Nabi Dar honoured with 'Padma Shri'

The Indian city of Srinagar is among the most creative&nbsp;in the world, and its artisans are working round the clock to keep its art and craft alive in the valley. Ghulam Nabi Dar, a master craftsman of walnut woodwork was recently honoured with India’s fourth-highest civilian award the Padma Shri. The recognition of his hard work has led to a new interest among the young towards the craft.&nbsp;

Ghulam Nabi Dar, a 72-year-old master craftsman of walnut woodwork has suddenly become an inspiration for hundreds of youngsters in Kashmir after being honoured with the Padma Shri. He has been creating masterpieces from wood carving for six decades and has received various accolades and awards for his exemplary work. And after his recent Padma Shri Award, he has been getting lots of calls from youngsters to help them learn the craft.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-philanthropy-report-2024-hnis-and-affluent-take-the-lead-in-social-sector-spending-695155">'India Philanthropy Report 2024': HNIs and affluent take the lead in social sector spending</a>

“The new generations especially after the award have been reaching out to me to learn the craft and I am very keen on teaching them too. I really have a lot of interest in teaching the young and I am sure more will come. I have started getting many calls from young people who want to learn. I am sure when I teach with my heart they will learn a lot, sometimes they are scared to learn from me as my craft is considered very difficult but it’s not impossible to learn the craft,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar. &nbsp;

Dar lives in Srinagar’s Safa Kadal area and has been working from his workshop for decades. He has sold his artefacts&nbsp;to people from across the world and&nbsp;is considered the best in walnut woodwork as he has always maintained high&nbsp;quality of&nbsp;work. According to Dar, he was ten years old when he started the craft.&nbsp;

Dar says the government needs to intervene now to protect the craft and make sure it does not die. He requested the Indian government for a comprehensive institute or workshop to train and draw the attention of&nbsp;young artisans towards safeguarding the art of&nbsp;wood carving in Kashmir.

Dar says some youngsters get scared when they see his work as they think that they might never be able to learn it, but he wants to give his best to help the younger generation imbibe the art form

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-pakistan-a-country-soaked-in-red-after-latter-rakes-up-jk-at-un-694955">India calls Pakistan 'a country soaked in red' after latter rakes up J&amp;K at UN</a>

“I started when I was ten years old, and we were very very poor and that led me to take up the craft. We were a poor family and for the first ten years I kept learning the craft and later I started working on my own. My teachers taught me well. I consider myself a student and keep learning every day. When someone receives awards or recognition, it helps in building morale. We need to save the craft and I am making sure my children learn it and I hope others will take it too. I have taught many children who have become better than me,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar. &nbsp;

With his children taking up the craft, he is hopeful that the art of&nbsp;wood carving in Kashmir will not&nbsp;die.

The Indian city of Srinagar is among the most creative in the world, and its artisans are working round the clock to keep its art and craft alive in the valley. Ghulam Nabi Dar, a master craftsman of walnut woodwork was recently honoured with India’s fourth-highest civilian award the Padma Shri.

The Indian city of Srinagar is among the most creative in the world, and its artisans are working round the clock to keep its art and craft alive in the valley. Ghulam Nabi Dar, a master craftsman of walnut woodwork was recently honoured with India’s fourth-highest civilian award the Padma Shri. The recognition of his hard work has led to a new interest among the young towards the craft. Ghulam Nabi Dar, a 72-year-old master craftsman of walnut woodwork has suddenly become an inspiration for hundreds of youngsters in Kashmir after being honoured with the Padma Shri. He has been creating masterpieces from wood carving for six decades and has received various accolades and awards for his exemplary work. And after his recent Padma Shri Award, he has been getting lots of calls from youngsters to help them learn the craft. Also Read | 'India Philanthropy Report 2024': HNIs and affluent take the lead in social sector spending “The new generations especially after the award have been reaching out to me to learn the craft and I am very keen on teaching them too. I really have a lot of interest in teaching the young and I am sure more will come. I have started getting many calls from young people who want to learn. I am sure when I teach with my heart they will learn a lot, sometimes they are scared to learn from me as my craft is considered very difficult but it’s not impossible to learn the craft,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar. Dar lives in Srinagar’s Safa Kadal area and has been working from his workshop for decades. He has sold his artefacts to people from across the world and is considered the best in walnut woodwork as he has always maintained high quality of work. According to Dar, he was ten years old when he started the craft. Dar says the government needs to intervene now to protect the craft and make sure it does not die. He requested the Indian government for a comprehensive institute or workshop to train and draw the attention of young artisans towards safeguarding the art of wood carving in Kashmir. Dar says some youngsters get scared when they see his work as they think that they might never be able to learn it, but he wants to give his best to help the younger generation imbibe the art form Also Read | India calls Pakistan 'a country soaked in red' after latter rakes up J&K at UN “I started when I was ten years old, and we were very very poor and that led me to take up the craft. We were a poor family and for the first ten years I kept learning the craft and later I started working on my own. My teachers taught me well. I consider myself a student and keep learning every day. When someone receives awards or recognition, it helps in building morale. We need to save the craft and I am making sure my children learn it and I hope others will take it too. I have taught many children who have become better than me,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar. With his children taking up the craft, he is hopeful that the art of wood carving in Kashmir will not die.

India: Padma Shri awardee from Kashmir inspires younger generation to take up walnut woodwork

India slammed Pakistan at the 55th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). First Secretary Anupama Singh raised the issue of persecution of minorities in Pakistan, she also described Pakistan's Human Rights record as truly abysmal.

India slams Pakistan for raking up Kashmir issue at UNHRC

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