Drug abuse is a menace that is plaguing societies across the world. In India the Kashmir Valley is one of the worst-hit regions because of cross-border drug peddling from Pakistan now the authorities have now launched a massive crackdown. Our correspondent gets you a ground report on the operation.

Kashmir No.2 in India's drug abuse rankings

Today on the 26th of June, a day known as International Day Against Drug Abuse, here is a story about India's one of the worst hit areas the Kashmir valley. Kashmir has been suffering from drug peddling from Pakistan and now the authorities have launched a massive crackdown on drug peddlers in the Union territories. Watch this report to know more.

Jammu & Kashmir government's massive crackdown on drug peddlers

<p>Kashmir Valley is back on the International tourism map. After decades, huge numbers of tourists from across the world are landing in Srinagar. According to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, over 15 thousand foreign tourists have visited the Kashmir Valley in the first six months of 2023.</p>

<p>Millions of tourists have visited the Kashmir Valley in 2023 and the numbers are going up every day. The number of foreign tourists arriving in the valley in the very first six months of 2023 has crossed 15 thousand. In 2022, the total number of foreign tourists who visited the Kashmir Valley was around 4000. The government is hopeful that all the previous records of foreign tourists visiting Kashmir Valley would be broken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''After many years, this is a positive development for the tourism of Jammu and Kashmir. This year, we have already reached 15 and a half thousand foreign tourists who come from various countries across the world into Jammu and Kashmir. We are hoping that the number of foreign tourists will be far in excess of what we had last year. And last year was apparently the highest number in many decades. This is a very positive development and I am very sanguine that the G20 event which was held in Srinagar in the last week of May will go a long way in increasing the foreign tourists rush and we are seeing a lot of queries and bookings that have been made from various countries,'' said Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Tourism, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government of Jammu and Kashmir hosted a G20 meeting in the month of May. Ambassadors and foreign delegates from around 17 countries participated in these meetings with a focus on tourism. The government is hopeful that G20 meetings held in Srinagar would translate into more promotion of Kashmir tourism across the world. The numbers have already crossed all the previous records and the government is also planning to do international promotions, especially in Southeast Asian, Middle East and North American countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Promotion of tourism is a very critical task undertaken by the Department of Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. We are slightly modifying the methods of promotion. Earlier we used to have road shows, we are continuing with that road shows and promotions and major travel marts. However, with changing times it's also important to department and intervention by way of promotion change, this is the era of digital marketing, and this is the era of online marketing. We are doing that, and we are starting virtual tours. We are doing airline promotions so that frequent flyers can be attracted. Outside of the country, there are various trade travel marts that take place, JK tourism department is going to participate in these in a big way, and one in Dubai had a positive response. We are focussing on those countries where we believe that they will come, southeast Asian countries are a huge market for us and we are focussing on that. The Middle East is a core focus area and a target too. The Northern American continent is a very important aspect of our promotional activities,'' said Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Tourism, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kashmir was one of the favourite destinations of foreign tourists in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. With the start of the insurgency, the numbers fell drastically. And now with peace returning to Kashmir Valley, the foreign tourists are yet again flocking to the 'Paradise on Earth'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir witness an increase in start-ups&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>''Kashmir is amazing, we came from Ladakh, and we have been here for two days. We are exploring the whole Valley and will be going to Gulmarg and Pahalgam. So far, I really like it. It's very clean and fresh and the people are lovely. So yes, I like Kashmir a lot. I have been travelling for three months in India. I wanted to explore the north side of India. Rented a bike from Delhi and have been travelling all around the North. Kashmir is amazing and looks like northern Italy with lakes and mountains. It reminds me of my hometown,'' said Luca, a Tourist from Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media is also one of the main areas where Kashmir is being promoted. A lot of visitors who come to Kashmir from across the world are putting up pictures and videos appreciating the beauty of the valley on their social media handles.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-forces-eliminate-four-terrorists-during-hm-amit-shahs-jk-visit-607740"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indian forces eliminate four terrorists during HM Amit Shah's J&amp;K visit</strong></a><br />
&nbsp;<br />
''Kashmir is different and it has a good environment and people are extremely friendly. It is crazily nice. I heard before covid; I heard Kashmir has had a huge number of Korean tourists visiting. I wish a lot of Koreans would come back to India and Kashmir. It's a beautiful place with a nice feeling. I have a YouTube channel and I have posted some nice things about Kashmir and India," said Lin, a Tourist from Korea.</p>

<p>It's not only foreign Tourists but also domestic tourists who are heading to the Kashmir Valley. Kashmir has broken all the previous records of tourist arrivals and that explains why Jammu and Kashmir government has opened over 300 new tourist destinations across the union territory.&nbsp;</p>

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Kashmir Valley is back on the International tourism map. After decades, huge numbers of tourists from across the world are landing in Srinagar. According to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, over 15 thousand foreign tourists have visited the Kashmir Valley in the first six months of 2023.

Kashmir Valley is back on the International tourism map. After decades, huge numbers of tourists from across the world are landing in Srinagar. According to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, over 15 thousand foreign tourists have visited the Kashmir Valley in the first six months of 2023. Millions of tourists have visited the Kashmir Valley in 2023 and the numbers are going up every day. The number of foreign tourists arriving in the valley in the very first six months of 2023 has crossed 15 thousand. In 2022, the total number of foreign tourists who visited the Kashmir Valley was around 4000. The government is hopeful that all the previous records of foreign tourists visiting Kashmir Valley would be broken. ''After many years, this is a positive development for the tourism of Jammu and Kashmir. This year, we have already reached 15 and a half thousand foreign tourists who come from various countries across the world into Jammu and Kashmir. We are hoping that the number of foreign tourists will be far in excess of what we had last year. And last year was apparently the highest number in many decades. This is a very positive development and I am very sanguine that the G20 event which was held in Srinagar in the last week of May will go a long way in increasing the foreign tourists rush and we are seeing a lot of queries and bookings that have been made from various countries,'' said Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Tourism, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. The government of Jammu and Kashmir hosted a G20 meeting in the month of May. Ambassadors and foreign delegates from around 17 countries participated in these meetings with a focus on tourism. The government is hopeful that G20 meetings held in Srinagar would translate into more promotion of Kashmir tourism across the world. The numbers have already crossed all the previous records and the government is also planning to do international promotions, especially in Southeast Asian, Middle East and North American countries. ''Promotion of tourism is a very critical task undertaken by the Department of Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. We are slightly modifying the methods of promotion. Earlier we used to have road shows, we are continuing with that road shows and promotions and major travel marts. However, with changing times it's also important to department and intervention by way of promotion change, this is the era of digital marketing, and this is the era of online marketing. We are doing that, and we are starting virtual tours. We are doing airline promotions so that frequent flyers can be attracted. Outside of the country, there are various trade travel marts that take place, JK tourism department is going to participate in these in a big way, and one in Dubai had a positive response. We are focussing on those countries where we believe that they will come, southeast Asian countries are a huge market for us and we are focussing on that. The Middle East is a core focus area and a target too. The Northern American continent is a very important aspect of our promotional activities,'' said Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Tourism, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmir was one of the favourite destinations of foreign tourists in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. With the start of the insurgency, the numbers fell drastically. And now with peace returning to Kashmir Valley, the foreign tourists are yet again flocking to the 'Paradise on Earth'. Watch: Jammu and Kashmir witness an increase in start-ups × ''Kashmir is amazing, we came from Ladakh, and we have been here for two days. We are exploring the whole Valley and will be going to Gulmarg and Pahalgam. So far, I really like it. It's very clean and fresh and the people are lovely. So yes, I like Kashmir a lot. I have been travelling for three months in India. I wanted to explore the north side of India. Rented a bike from Delhi and have been travelling all around the North. Kashmir is amazing and looks like northern Italy with lakes and mountains. It reminds me of my hometown,'' said Luca, a Tourist from Italy. Social media is also one of the main areas where Kashmir is being promoted. A lot of visitors who come to Kashmir from across the world are putting up pictures and videos appreciating the beauty of the valley on their social media handles. Also read: Indian forces eliminate four terrorists during HM Amit Shah's J&K visit ''Kashmir is different and it has a good environment and people are extremely friendly. It is crazily nice. I heard before covid; I heard Kashmir has had a huge number of Korean tourists visiting. I wish a lot of Koreans would come back to India and Kashmir. It's a beautiful place with a nice feeling. I have a YouTube channel and I have posted some nice things about Kashmir and India," said Lin, a Tourist from Korea. It's not only foreign Tourists but also domestic tourists who are heading to the Kashmir Valley. Kashmir has broken all the previous records of tourist arrivals and that explains why Jammu and Kashmir government has opened over 300 new tourist destinations across the union territory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kashmir witnesses huge influx of foreign tourists after decades

<p>On a day when India's Home Minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India's north, four terrorists were killed in a joint operation of Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian army along the Line of Control with Pakistan,&nbsp;Kupwara's Machil sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The operation 'Kala Jungle' was started after the forces got a tip off about the presence of terrorists in the area who were trying to Infiltrate from across the border of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Operation Kala Jungle, Macchal, Kupwara. In a joint operation launched by Indian Army and Jammu Kashmir Police,&nbsp;an infiltration bid was foiled today by alert troops along LOC in Macchal Sector, Kupwara. Four terrorists eliminated and&nbsp;war-like stores have been recovered. Operation&nbsp;in progress, '' said the Defence Spokesperson of Indian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-infiltration-bids-made-from-across-border-to-keep-terror-alive-in-j-k-says-dgp-605588">India: Infiltration bids made from across border to keep terror alive in J&amp;K, says DGP</a></strong></p>

<p>This is the third operation on the Line of Control in the month of June.</p>

<p>Eleven terrorists have been killed in the three operations carried out by security forces close to Line of Control in North Kashmir.</p>

<p>The first operation was in the Machil sector where two terrorists were killed, the second operation was in Kupwara where five foreign terrorists were killed and in today's operations four terrorist bodies have been recovered from the operation site so far.</p>

<h2><strong>Amit Shah's Jammu Kashmir visit</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian army says the search in the area still continues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, The Indian Home Minister Amit Shah is on a visit to the Union Territory where he will be inaugurating various developmental projects. Home Minister Shri Amit Shah will pay floral tributes to the BJP ideologue Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee after landing in Jammu region. He will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various development projects in Jammu.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir; Kashmiri Pandit shot dead</strong></p>

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<p>Later, he will be landing in Srinagar where he will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for various development projects at Raj Bhawan Auditorium, Srinagar. He will also be attending the Vitasta Cultural Festival organized by the Union Ministry of Culture in Srinagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Home Minister will also take stock and security review of the arrangements made with regard to Amarnath Yatra.&nbsp;</p>

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On a day when India's Home Minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India's north, four terrorists were killed in a joint operation of Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian army along the Line of Control with Pakistan, Kupwara's Machil sector.

On a day when India's Home Minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India's north, four terrorists were killed in a joint operation of Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian army along the Line of Control with Pakistan, Kupwara's Machil sector. The operation 'Kala Jungle' was started after the forces got a tip off about the presence of terrorists in the area who were trying to Infiltrate from across the border of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. ''Operation Kala Jungle, Macchal, Kupwara. In a joint operation launched by Indian Army and Jammu Kashmir Police, an infiltration bid was foiled today by alert troops along LOC in Macchal Sector, Kupwara. Four terrorists eliminated and war-like stores have been recovered. Operation in progress, '' said the Defence Spokesperson of Indian Army. Also read | India: Infiltration bids made from across border to keep terror alive in J&K, says DGP This is the third operation on the Line of Control in the month of June. Eleven terrorists have been killed in the three operations carried out by security forces close to Line of Control in North Kashmir. The first operation was in the Machil sector where two terrorists were killed, the second operation was in Kupwara where five foreign terrorists were killed and in today's operations four terrorist bodies have been recovered from the operation site so far. Amit Shah's Jammu Kashmir visit The Indian army says the search in the area still continues. Meanwhile, The Indian Home Minister Amit Shah is on a visit to the Union Territory where he will be inaugurating various developmental projects. Home Minister Shri Amit Shah will pay floral tributes to the BJP ideologue Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee after landing in Jammu region. He will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various development projects in Jammu. Also watch | India: Terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir; Kashmiri Pandit shot dead × Later, he will be landing in Srinagar where he will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for various development projects at Raj Bhawan Auditorium, Srinagar. He will also be attending the Vitasta Cultural Festival organized by the Union Ministry of Culture in Srinagar. The Home Minister will also take stock and security review of the arrangements made with regard to Amarnath Yatra. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian forces eliminate four terrorists during HM Amit Shah's J&K visit

<p>It is good news for the houseboat community living on the world-famous Dal Lake in the Kashmir Valley. The government has allowed repair and renovation work for century-old&nbsp;houseboats, which are on the verge of collapse and were desperately in need of a facelift. This&nbsp;has come as a big relief for the community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Houseboats are one of the main attractions for tourists coming to the Kashmir Valley. Built during British rule in 1883, the more than century-old houseboats industry on the world-famous Dal Lake was gasping for its survival as the government had banned the repair and renovation work of these houseboats some 50 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dozens of houseboats on Dal Lake and Jhelum River have drowned in the past few years in the valley. The houseboat communities had been pushing for the lifting of the ban for the repair and renovation of these houseboats. The decision comes as&nbsp;some relief to these people for whom the main source of earning is through this houseboat tourism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a very welcome step that we have been given permission for the repairs and construction of 19 houseboats. In the coming time, we are hopeful that we will get an order for other houseboats also which are in need of repair and reconstruction. As you know, houseboats are one of the major parts of the tourism sector. As houseboats are concerned, they have always been a major tourist attraction. Houseboat is known as a unique feature which you cannot find anywhere in the country," said Manzoor Pakhtoon, General Secretary of&nbsp;the Houseboat Association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a welcome step and we are thankful to the LG admin and high court for allowing us. There is good news coming soon as well about the timber that we require for houseboats has been allotted to us and subsidised which we would be using for the repairing of our boats. It's a very good step and there is a wave of happiness among the houseboat dwellers. Most of the houseboats need repair, the numbers have come down in the last few decades and with this order, we are hoping to save the heritage,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>According to the official records, there used to be around 2000 houseboats in the Kashmir Valley and now these numbers have come down to 750-800 on the Dal Lake. Additionally, the number of&nbsp;houseboats in total across Srinagar City stands at 1100. The houseboat community has been pushing the government to declare the houseboat industry as a heritage industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''From 2000 houseboats to now at 750-800, most of the houseboats need repair, some need major repairs while some need more. Houseboats need repair&nbsp;every year, and waterproofing of the base needs to be done every year. Lots of things we have to do, each and every kind of houseboats need repairs and we have requested the government that houseboats should be declared as heritage industry and there should be MSME schemes for families running these boats. We are looking at the better environment of the lake, our STPs are going to be connected soon, pipes have been placed and 300 houseboats have been connected with STP pipelines, so I hope all the houseboats are connected soon and I think it's a very good step,'' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, General Sect, Houseboat Association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 50 years ago, the government banned the repair work of these houseboats, and now there are very few people left who can do the repair work. There is a dearth of craftsmen who know the repair work of these houseboats. According to locals, only 80-85 craftsmen at present know the repairing work of the houseboats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a lot of benefit for the houseboat community. There are very few people left who would do the houseboat repair work as it was banned for decades. Now only 85 people have left who are capable of doing the repairing work in a houseboat. There are around 85 per cent of houseboats which need repair. There are so many houseboats damaged as they are decades old. If they allow all houseboats to be repaired, it will emerge as a new industry again. There are so many houseboats which have drowned in the last few years in Dal as well as Jhelum. With this permission, things will change for good; we are repairing this Bulbul houseboat right now. These houseboats need to be saved,'' said Nisar Hussain Najar, a houseboat repair craftsman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the government allowing the repair and renovation work of these houseboats in Srinagar city, the houseboat dwellers believe that now they will be able to save the heritage of the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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It is good news for the houseboat community living on the world-famous Dal Lake in the Kashmir Valley. The government has allowed repair and renovation work for century-old houseboats, which are on the verge of collapse and were desperately in need of a facelift.

It is good news for the houseboat community living on the world-famous Dal Lake in the Kashmir Valley. The government has allowed repair and renovation work for century-old houseboats, which are on the verge of collapse and were desperately in need of a facelift. This has come as a big relief for the community. Houseboats are one of the main attractions for tourists coming to the Kashmir Valley. Built during British rule in 1883, the more than century-old houseboats industry on the world-famous Dal Lake was gasping for its survival as the government had banned the repair and renovation work of these houseboats some 50 years ago. Dozens of houseboats on Dal Lake and Jhelum River have drowned in the past few years in the valley. The houseboat communities had been pushing for the lifting of the ban for the repair and renovation of these houseboats. The decision comes as some relief to these people for whom the main source of earning is through this houseboat tourism. "It's a very welcome step that we have been given permission for the repairs and construction of 19 houseboats. In the coming time, we are hopeful that we will get an order for other houseboats also which are in need of repair and reconstruction. As you know, houseboats are one of the major parts of the tourism sector. As houseboats are concerned, they have always been a major tourist attraction. Houseboat is known as a unique feature which you cannot find anywhere in the country," said Manzoor Pakhtoon, General Secretary of the Houseboat Association. "It's a welcome step and we are thankful to the LG admin and high court for allowing us. There is good news coming soon as well about the timber that we require for houseboats has been allotted to us and subsidised which we would be using for the repairing of our boats. It's a very good step and there is a wave of happiness among the houseboat dwellers. Most of the houseboats need repair, the numbers have come down in the last few decades and with this order, we are hoping to save the heritage," he added. According to the official records, there used to be around 2000 houseboats in the Kashmir Valley and now these numbers have come down to 750-800 on the Dal Lake. Additionally, the number of houseboats in total across Srinagar City stands at 1100. The houseboat community has been pushing the government to declare the houseboat industry as a heritage industry. ''From 2000 houseboats to now at 750-800, most of the houseboats need repair, some need major repairs while some need more. Houseboats need repair every year, and waterproofing of the base needs to be done every year. Lots of things we have to do, each and every kind of houseboats need repairs and we have requested the government that houseboats should be declared as heritage industry and there should be MSME schemes for families running these boats. We are looking at the better environment of the lake, our STPs are going to be connected soon, pipes have been placed and 300 houseboats have been connected with STP pipelines, so I hope all the houseboats are connected soon and I think it's a very good step,'' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, General Sect, Houseboat Association. Around 50 years ago, the government banned the repair work of these houseboats, and now there are very few people left who can do the repair work. There is a dearth of craftsmen who know the repair work of these houseboats. According to locals, only 80-85 craftsmen at present know the repairing work of the houseboats. "It's a lot of benefit for the houseboat community. There are very few people left who would do the houseboat repair work as it was banned for decades. Now only 85 people have left who are capable of doing the repairing work in a houseboat. There are around 85 per cent of houseboats which need repair. There are so many houseboats damaged as they are decades old. If they allow all houseboats to be repaired, it will emerge as a new industry again. There are so many houseboats which have drowned in the last few years in Dal as well as Jhelum. With this permission, things will change for good; we are repairing this Bulbul houseboat right now. These houseboats need to be saved,'' said Nisar Hussain Najar, a houseboat repair craftsman. With the government allowing the repair and renovation work of these houseboats in Srinagar city, the houseboat dwellers believe that now they will be able to save the heritage of the Kashmir Valley. 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.

In a big relief, after five decades, govt allows repair, renovation of houseboats in Kashmir Valley

Five terrorists have been killed in an encounter in Kashmir today. The operation was carried out jointly by the Indian army and the Kashmir police. It took place in the Juma Gund area of Kashmir Kupwara District the operation was based on intelligence from the Kupwara police.

India: Five terrorists killed in Kashmir

The most definite rivalry and world cricket gets underway this week with England and Australia locking horns in the ashes. But a new rivalry is emerging and this relates to cricket equipment. The century-old cricket bat industry of the Kashmir valley has become the biggest rival of the famous English Willow bat.

Rise in demand for Kashmir's willow bats | 400 bat manufacturers in Kashmir valley

<p dir="ltr">The National Investigation Agency (NIA) attached two properties belonging to Mohammad Akbar Khanday, separatist leader of All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC). The properties include nine Kanal land and a 2-storeyed house in Srinagar. These have been attached on the orders of the Special NIA Court, New Delhi, under section 33(1) of UAPA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes a day after attaching 17 properties of Kashmiri businessman, Zahoor Ahmed Shah Watali.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">As per&nbsp;the NIA, Khanday, currently in Tihar Jail facing trial in the terror funding case, was the Spokesperson/ Media advisor of Hurriyat Conference (G). He was raising and collecting funds from within India and abroad through various illegal channels and was using the same to sponsor and promote separatist and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">“Khanday, who was closely connected with other separatist leaders of the APHC, was operating in close association with Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) and he used to collect funds for unlawful and violent activities. He was also actively involved in activities aimed at the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India, NIA investigations have revealed,“ said NIA.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-four-killed-three-injured-after-tanker-carrying-chemicals-exploded-on-pune-mumbai-expressway-603963">India: At least four killed, three injured after tanker carrying chemicals explodes on Pune-Mumbai Expressway</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">The NIA added that the case, filed suo moto by NIA in May 2017, relates to terrorist and secessionist activities being carried out by ISI-backed proscribed terrorist organisations in Jammu and Kashmir. These banned outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) etc, were using the APHC as a front for their activities, NIA investigations have revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The press release of NIA said that they were spreading terror and perpetrating violence in the Kashmir Valley by promoting and conducting attacks on civilians and security forces.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NIA seizes property of separatist leader Ayaz Akbar&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr">The agency has so far filed a charge sheet against 17 people, including Hafeez Saeed, the Amir of Jamaat-ud-Dawah and LeT and a&nbsp;UN-listed terrorist, as well as Mohd. Yusuf Shah, also known as&nbsp;Syed Salahuddin, the Chief of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM).</p>

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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) attached two properties belonging to Mohammad Akbar Khanday, separatist leader of All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC). The properties include nine Kanal land and a 2-storeyed house in Srinagar.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) attached two properties belonging to Mohammad Akbar Khanday, separatist leader of All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC). The properties include nine Kanal land and a 2-storeyed house in Srinagar. These have been attached on the orders of the Special NIA Court, New Delhi, under section 33(1) of UAPA. This comes a day after attaching 17 properties of Kashmiri businessman, Zahoor Ahmed Shah Watali. As per the NIA, Khanday, currently in Tihar Jail facing trial in the terror funding case, was the Spokesperson/ Media advisor of Hurriyat Conference (G). He was raising and collecting funds from within India and abroad through various illegal channels and was using the same to sponsor and promote separatist and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. “Khanday, who was closely connected with other separatist leaders of the APHC, was operating in close association with Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) and he used to collect funds for unlawful and violent activities. He was also actively involved in activities aimed at the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India, NIA investigations have revealed,“ said NIA. Also read | India: At least four killed, three injured after tanker carrying chemicals explodes on Pune-Mumbai Expressway The NIA added that the case, filed suo moto by NIA in May 2017, relates to terrorist and secessionist activities being carried out by ISI-backed proscribed terrorist organisations in Jammu and Kashmir. These banned outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) etc, were using the APHC as a front for their activities, NIA investigations have revealed. The press release of NIA said that they were spreading terror and perpetrating violence in the Kashmir Valley by promoting and conducting attacks on civilians and security forces. Also watch | NIA seizes property of separatist leader Ayaz Akbar The agency has so far filed a charge sheet against 17 people, including Hafeez Saeed, the Amir of Jamaat-ud-Dawah and LeT and a UN-listed terrorist, as well as Mohd. Yusuf Shah, also known as Syed Salahuddin, the Chief of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kashmir: NIA attaches 2 more properties in Hurriyat terror funding case, 19 properties attached in 2 days

<p>Nearly half (54 per cent) of Pakistanis, according to a <a href="https://gallup.com.pk/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/12th-June-English-Vesion.pdf">Gallup &amp; Gilani Pakistan study</a>, think the Kashmir conflict may be resolved during their lifetime.</p>

<p>The question "Do you think the Kashmir problem can be solved during your lifetime?" was posed to an adult, nationally representative sample of both men and women from all around the nation. 54 per cent&nbsp;of respondents replied "yes," while 46 per cent&nbsp;disagreed.</p>

<p>The Gilani Research Foundation, a Pakistani subsidiary of Gallup International, commissioned Gallup &amp; Gilani Pakistan to conduct the survey in Pakistan and publish the results. A sample of 1,535 men and women from urban and rural regions of all four provinces of the nation participated in the current poll, which was conducted from March 29 to April 7, 2023. At a&nbsp;confidence level of 95 per cent, the error margin is expected to be between two and three per cent. Telephonic surveys (CATI) were the method of data collection.</p>

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<h2 id="main-heading" tabindex="-1"><strong>Why India and Pakistan fight over Kashmir?</strong></h2>

<p>Kashmir is a Himalayan region that is around 86,000 square miles (222,738 square kilometres) in size and is well-known for the beauty of its lakes, meadows,&nbsp;snow-capped mountains,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a variety of ethnic groups.</p>

<p>Before India and Pakistan achieved their independence from Britain in August 1947, the region was a contentious one.</p>

<p>Kashmir was allowed to join either India or Pakistan under the terms of the partition plan outlined in the Indian Independence Act, as reported by the BBC.</p>

<p>Hari Singh, the maharaja (local king), initially wanted Kashmir's independence; nevertheless, in October 1947, he decided to join India in exchange for the&nbsp;country's assistance in repelling a Pakistani tribesman invasion.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Former Pak PM Imran Khan tells JIT he has no evidence against Major General Naseer</strong></p>

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<p>India approached the UN and requested its intervention when a conflict broke out. To decide whether the state will ally with India or Pakistan, the UN suggested conducting a vote. But before the referendum could be held, the two nations were unable to come to an agreement to demilitarise the area.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-admits-he-has-no-evidence-against-major-general-naseer-reports-603767">Imran Khan admits he has no evidence against Major General Naseer: Reports</a></p>

<p>The UN had advised India and Pakistan to draw a ceasefire line, and they did so in July 1949, dividing the territory.</p>

<p>In 1965, a second conflict broke out. Then, in 1999, India engaged in a brief but bloody fight with forces supported by Pakistan.</p>

<p>At that point, both Pakistan and India had proclaimed themselves nuclear powers.</p>

<p>Today, Kashmir is claimed by both Delhi and Islamabad in its entirety although only a portion of it is really under their authority. These areas are known internationally as "Indian-administered Kashmir" and "Pakistan-administered Kashmir."</p>

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Nearly half (54 per cent) of Pakistanis, according to a Gallup & Gilani Pakistan study, think the Kashmir conflict may be resolved during their lifetime. The question "Do you think the Kashmir problem can be solved during your lifetime?

Nearly half (54 per cent) of Pakistanis, according to a Gallup & Gilani Pakistan study, think the Kashmir conflict may be resolved during their lifetime. The question "Do you think the Kashmir problem can be solved during your lifetime?" was posed to an adult, nationally representative sample of both men and women from all around the nation. 54 per cent of respondents replied "yes," while 46 per cent disagreed. The Gilani Research Foundation, a Pakistani subsidiary of Gallup International, commissioned Gallup & Gilani Pakistan to conduct the survey in Pakistan and publish the results. A sample of 1,535 men and women from urban and rural regions of all four provinces of the nation participated in the current poll, which was conducted from March 29 to April 7, 2023. At a confidence level of 95 per cent, the error margin is expected to be between two and three per cent. Telephonic surveys (CATI) were the method of data collection. Why India and Pakistan fight over Kashmir? Kashmir is a Himalayan region that is around 86,000 square miles (222,738 square kilometres) in size and is well-known for the beauty of its lakes, meadows, snow-capped mountains, and a variety of ethnic groups. Before India and Pakistan achieved their independence from Britain in August 1947, the region was a contentious one. Kashmir was allowed to join either India or Pakistan under the terms of the partition plan outlined in the Indian Independence Act, as reported by the BBC. Hari Singh, the maharaja (local king), initially wanted Kashmir's independence; nevertheless, in October 1947, he decided to join India in exchange for the country's assistance in repelling a Pakistani tribesman invasion. Also watch | Former Pak PM Imran Khan tells JIT he has no evidence against Major General Naseer India approached the UN and requested its intervention when a conflict broke out. To decide whether the state will ally with India or Pakistan, the UN suggested conducting a vote. But before the referendum could be held, the two nations were unable to come to an agreement to demilitarise the area. Also read | Imran Khan admits he has no evidence against Major General Naseer: Reports The UN had advised India and Pakistan to draw a ceasefire line, and they did so in July 1949, dividing the territory. In 1965, a second conflict broke out. Then, in 1999, India engaged in a brief but bloody fight with forces supported by Pakistan. At that point, both Pakistan and India had proclaimed themselves nuclear powers. Today, Kashmir is claimed by both Delhi and Islamabad in its entirety although only a portion of it is really under their authority. These areas are known internationally as "Indian-administered Kashmir" and "Pakistan-administered Kashmir." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Most Pakistanis think Kashmir issue can be resolved within their lifetime: Survey

<p>The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many. The arduous journey of the Kashmiri Pandits encompasses a multitude of challenges that they have faced throughout the years. From the initial obstacles of finding colleges that offer migrant quotas for fee concessions to secure education, to the daunting task of securing jobs for survival far from their beloved homeland, their resilience knows no bounds. Yet, despite the hardships, an unyielding desire burns within them to return to their ancestral land, even if it means risking their lives for low-paid government positions.</p>

<p>It was not until 2008, a staggering 18 years after the genocide that shook the community, that approximately 2,000 Kashmiri Pandits managed to secure government jobs under the PM Rehabilitation and Employment Package. This package was meant to provide them with the basic entitlements of security and safety. Over the years, the number of vacancies increased, and presently, around 5,500 Kashmiri Pandits are working in the valley under the PM Package. Some decided to settle alone, leaving their families behind in Jammu, while others chose to resettle with their loved ones, including ailing elderly parents. With meagre salaries, some found themselves in subpar accommodations, while others rented single-room quarters, all in pursuit of their dream to reclaim their homeland.</p>

<p>However, the reality of being a micro-minority in their own land, navigating their way to a respectable life among the majority, remains a constant struggle for the Kashmiri Pandits. Denied the fundamental rights of promotions in their jobs, these men and women were posted haphazardly, requiring them to travel to far-flung areas and districts outside their home districts, incurring additional expenses. As if these challenges weren't enough, the sympathizers of Pakistan in the neighbourhood have started labelling these hardworking refugees as stooges or agents, making them vulnerable targets for terrorists who advocate for a Pandit-free Kashmir.</p>

<p>For years, the spectre of fear and threats has loomed over the Kashmiri Pandits, and tragically, it has materialized with the brutal killings of innocent community members and non-local labourers. From the heart-wrenching loss of individuals like Rajni Bala to Makhan Lal Bindroo, numerous innocent lives have been taken without reason. Yet, the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri Pandits remains unbroken. They continue to stand their ground, persevering through their work while living under the constant shadow of potential loss.</p>

<p>The tragic murder of Rahul Bhat served as a chilling reminder of the sacrificial existence they have endured. Once again, the Kashmiri Pandit community found themselves on the streets, with their bags packed, desperately seeking a safe passage to Jammu. However, their path was blocked by government authorities, confining them to their makeshift homes. The peaceful protests of the Kashmiri Pandit migrant employees persisted for approximately five months, until they were finally compelled to return to their respective duties in Kashmir. Regrettably, there was no reallocation or resettlement offered to them.</p>

<p>The lack of effective administration and cohesive policymaking can be attributed to the disarray among our community leaders, who often hold contradictory plans and proposals. When we examine the current political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes apparent that the Kashmiri Pandit community has limited representation, with only a few former leaders sporadically addressing the issues faced by the common people.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi: India will never forget atrocities committed on Kashmiri Pandits</strong></p>

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<p>The abrogation of Article 370 resulted in a significant shift in ideologies between the Kashmiri Pandit and Kashmiri Muslim communities. As a result, major political parties have engaged in intensive deliberations to establish connections with the Kashmiri Pandit community, recognizing the importance of their vote bank in shaping the political and electoral landscape. Some members have been courted by the PDP, while others have aligned with the NC, and the Congress has had a few Kashmiri Pandit allies for some time.</p>

<p>However, the main concern lies in the BJP's failure to incorporate influential and politically knowledgeable members of the KP community into their action plans, policy-making, or advisory board. Although the BJP did identify individuals like Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi from Kashmir, Shri Gulam Ali Khatana from Jammu, and several others from across the J&amp;K region, there seems to be no intention to promote any political or influential MP or advisor from the KP community.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jk-govt-inaugurates-over-1200-flats-for-kashmiri-pandit-employees-586367"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India: J&amp;K government inaugurates over 1200 flats for Kashmiri pandit employees</strong></a></p>

<p>This political manoeuvring by the BJP raises questions about whether the KP community is being directly neglected or if it signals that they have no significant say in the region's political landscape. If the BJP solely relies on the Muslim, Dogra, and Gujjar majorities, it may be time for the Kashmiri Pandits to reassess their strategies in fighting for the agendas they have passionately pursued since 1990.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many.

The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many. The arduous journey of the Kashmiri Pandits encompasses a multitude of challenges that they have faced throughout the years. From the initial obstacles of finding colleges that offer migrant quotas for fee concessions to secure education, to the daunting task of securing jobs for survival far from their beloved homeland, their resilience knows no bounds. Yet, despite the hardships, an unyielding desire burns within them to return to their ancestral land, even if it means risking their lives for low-paid government positions. It was not until 2008, a staggering 18 years after the genocide that shook the community, that approximately 2,000 Kashmiri Pandits managed to secure government jobs under the PM Rehabilitation and Employment Package. This package was meant to provide them with the basic entitlements of security and safety. Over the years, the number of vacancies increased, and presently, around 5,500 Kashmiri Pandits are working in the valley under the PM Package. Some decided to settle alone, leaving their families behind in Jammu, while others chose to resettle with their loved ones, including ailing elderly parents. With meagre salaries, some found themselves in subpar accommodations, while others rented single-room quarters, all in pursuit of their dream to reclaim their homeland. However, the reality of being a micro-minority in their own land, navigating their way to a respectable life among the majority, remains a constant struggle for the Kashmiri Pandits. Denied the fundamental rights of promotions in their jobs, these men and women were posted haphazardly, requiring them to travel to far-flung areas and districts outside their home districts, incurring additional expenses. As if these challenges weren't enough, the sympathizers of Pakistan in the neighbourhood have started labelling these hardworking refugees as stooges or agents, making them vulnerable targets for terrorists who advocate for a Pandit-free Kashmir. For years, the spectre of fear and threats has loomed over the Kashmiri Pandits, and tragically, it has materialized with the brutal killings of innocent community members and non-local labourers. From the heart-wrenching loss of individuals like Rajni Bala to Makhan Lal Bindroo, numerous innocent lives have been taken without reason. Yet, the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri Pandits remains unbroken. They continue to stand their ground, persevering through their work while living under the constant shadow of potential loss. The tragic murder of Rahul Bhat served as a chilling reminder of the sacrificial existence they have endured. Once again, the Kashmiri Pandit community found themselves on the streets, with their bags packed, desperately seeking a safe passage to Jammu. However, their path was blocked by government authorities, confining them to their makeshift homes. The peaceful protests of the Kashmiri Pandit migrant employees persisted for approximately five months, until they were finally compelled to return to their respective duties in Kashmir. Regrettably, there was no reallocation or resettlement offered to them. The lack of effective administration and cohesive policymaking can be attributed to the disarray among our community leaders, who often hold contradictory plans and proposals. When we examine the current political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes apparent that the Kashmiri Pandit community has limited representation, with only a few former leaders sporadically addressing the issues faced by the common people. Watch: PM Modi: India will never forget atrocities committed on Kashmiri Pandits × The abrogation of Article 370 resulted in a significant shift in ideologies between the Kashmiri Pandit and Kashmiri Muslim communities. As a result, major political parties have engaged in intensive deliberations to establish connections with the Kashmiri Pandit community, recognizing the importance of their vote bank in shaping the political and electoral landscape. Some members have been courted by the PDP, while others have aligned with the NC, and the Congress has had a few Kashmiri Pandit allies for some time. However, the main concern lies in the BJP's failure to incorporate influential and politically knowledgeable members of the KP community into their action plans, policy-making, or advisory board. Although the BJP did identify individuals like Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi from Kashmir, Shri Gulam Ali Khatana from Jammu, and several others from across the J&K region, there seems to be no intention to promote any political or influential MP or advisor from the KP community. Also read: India: J&K government inaugurates over 1200 flats for Kashmiri pandit employees This political manoeuvring by the BJP raises questions about whether the KP community is being directly neglected or if it signals that they have no significant say in the region's political landscape. If the BJP solely relies on the Muslim, Dogra, and Gujjar majorities, it may be time for the Kashmiri Pandits to reassess their strategies in fighting for the agendas they have passionately pursued since 1990. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

From homeland to refugee, and back to homeland, only to become refugees once again

The century-old Kashmir Valley cricket bat industry has emerged as the top rival for the renowned English Willow baths, and this year, a number of cricketing nations will use Kashmir Valley bats to compete in the World Cup qualifying tournament.

Kashmiri cricket bats to be used by many countries during World Cup qualifying rounds

<p>Kashmir Valley woke up to a new controversy this morning after several female students were seen protesting outside their college in Srinagar. Many female students alleged that they were denied entry into the school premises&nbsp;for wearing Hijab.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187">AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona</a></p>

<p>The female students of the Vishwa Bharti Womens College in the Rainawari area of Srinagar were at the centre of the controversy which within no time took a political turn. From political leaders to religious clerics, the controversy snowballed and was condemned by one and all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Why should we take off the abaya? I don't love this school more than my God that I will take off this abaya. I will never take my abaya off, there are so many boys in the college and there is so much immorality going on which is invisible to their eyes and asking us to take off the abaya. Who is she to tell us to take the abaya off? She is asking us if we have to wear an abaya rather than go to a Darsgah (Religious School). Don't the girls who wear abayas get the same education as everyone else?'' said a girl student.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-anti-gay-protests-in-los-angeles-after-school-votes-on-recognizing-june-as-pride-month-602146">Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month</a></p>

<p>However, the school administration has stated that there has been some miscommunication on the issue as the students were asked to wear the cover as per recommended norms. The school authorities said that the students are wearing multicoloured abaya and this is not as per the uniform of the college.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even though the school has its own dress code, and some girls also wear ‘abaya’, they have never been stopped. Yesterday, I informed teachers to ask those students not to wear abayas on the school premises, but they can come in 'abayas' until they reach the school premises in order to maintain decorum. There is no higher authority involved in it but I&nbsp;believe a proper dress code which is being followed shall be followed here as well. We will announce a proper colour and pattern of ‘Abaya’ for all those students who want to come to school wearing the same.&nbsp;We are not allowing colourful Abayas to be followed in the institution,'' said the InCharge principal of the school, Memroz Shafi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits</strong></p>

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<p>The political leadership in the Kashmir Valley has criticised the move as well. The former chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir said that diktats&nbsp;like these won't be tolerated.</p>

<p>''They want to change Gandhi's India into Godse's India. Jammu Kashmir has become a laboratory for them, and every experimentation is being done from here. What had started in Karnataka is now being implemented in Kashmir as well. We will not accept this, and it will have severe reactions and repercussions. It's a personal choice to wear what we want, and you cannot force us to change that. They are attacking our religion and our religious leaders, the NIA calling summoning our religious leaders is an example. We won't tolerate all this. They have dispossessed us and now they are attacking our religion,'' said Mehbooba Mufti.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Grand Mufti of Kashmir Valley Mufti Nasir Ul Islam has said the institution was only for women and has now recently been converted into a co-education institute, so the female students should be allowed to wear a burqa and abaya as their choice to protect their modesty.&nbsp;</p>

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Kashmir Valley woke up to a new controversy this morning after several female students were seen protesting outside their college in Srinagar. Many female students alleged that they were denied entry into the school premises for wearing Hijab.

Kashmir Valley woke up to a new controversy this morning after several female students were seen protesting outside their college in Srinagar. Many female students alleged that they were denied entry into the school premises for wearing Hijab. Also Read | AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona The female students of the Vishwa Bharti Womens College in the Rainawari area of Srinagar were at the centre of the controversy which within no time took a political turn. From political leaders to religious clerics, the controversy snowballed and was condemned by one and all. ''Why should we take off the abaya? I don't love this school more than my God that I will take off this abaya. I will never take my abaya off, there are so many boys in the college and there is so much immorality going on which is invisible to their eyes and asking us to take off the abaya. Who is she to tell us to take the abaya off? She is asking us if we have to wear an abaya rather than go to a Darsgah (Religious School). Don't the girls who wear abayas get the same education as everyone else?'' said a girl student. Also Read | Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month However, the school administration has stated that there has been some miscommunication on the issue as the students were asked to wear the cover as per recommended norms. The school authorities said that the students are wearing multicoloured abaya and this is not as per the uniform of the college. "Even though the school has its own dress code, and some girls also wear ‘abaya’, they have never been stopped. Yesterday, I informed teachers to ask those students not to wear abayas on the school premises, but they can come in 'abayas' until they reach the school premises in order to maintain decorum. There is no higher authority involved in it but I believe a proper dress code which is being followed shall be followed here as well. We will announce a proper colour and pattern of ‘Abaya’ for all those students who want to come to school wearing the same. We are not allowing colourful Abayas to be followed in the institution,'' said the InCharge principal of the school, Memroz Shafi. Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits × The political leadership in the Kashmir Valley has criticised the move as well. The former chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir said that diktats like these won't be tolerated. ''They want to change Gandhi's India into Godse's India. Jammu Kashmir has become a laboratory for them, and every experimentation is being done from here. What had started in Karnataka is now being implemented in Kashmir as well. We will not accept this, and it will have severe reactions and repercussions. It's a personal choice to wear what we want, and you cannot force us to change that. They are attacking our religion and our religious leaders, the NIA calling summoning our religious leaders is an example. We won't tolerate all this. They have dispossessed us and now they are attacking our religion,'' said Mehbooba Mufti. The Grand Mufti of Kashmir Valley Mufti Nasir Ul Islam has said the institution was only for women and has now recently been converted into a co-education institute, so the female students should be allowed to wear a burqa and abaya as their choice to protect their modesty. 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. ×

Kashmir: Students' protest against hijab ban snowballs into big controversy

<p>Kashmir Valley, famously known as paradise on Earth, has become one of the top Indian&nbsp;states fighting drug abuse.&nbsp;Thousands of syringes are being used to inject heroin in the Valley by drug abusers on a daily basis. While the government says most of the drugs are sent to Kashmir Valley from across the border, a massive crackdown on drug peddlers has also started across the Union Territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a recent study, Kashmir Valley recently surpassed every other state in India to be among the top two states in the country with regard to drug abuse. And one of the most common drugs used here is Heroin. It was revealed in a study that Kashmir was at the number two slot as far as drug abuse was concerned as the region has left behind Punjab which was considered the hub till recently.</p>

<p>According to a top police official in the Union Territory, over 5,000 cases have been registered in the last few years against drug peddlers. The action is making a difference on the ground, but the drug mafia is so huge that it will take a lot of time for the administration to clean the mess.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-biggest-ever-drug-haul-officials-seize-15000-blots-busts-dark-net-ring-of-drug-traffickers-601283">India's biggest-ever drug haul: Officials seize 15,000 blots, busts 'dark net' ring of drug traffickers</a></strong></p>

<p>''If we talk about the prevalence, we did a survey last year in which we took samples from all the ten districts of Kashmir Valley. It was done in collaboration with the social welfare department and the Directorate of Health. In the survey, we found the prevalence was around 2.87 per cent and if you compare this to other states, we found it more than Punjab which was considered to be the hub of drug abuse. it equals to around 67000 people, and these were dependent on drugs and mostly on heroin. Which is very alarming and most of them were using injections, '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction centre, SMHS, GMC Srinagar.</p>

<p>However, experts say that the coordination between all stakeholders in the valley is showing results on the ground. Not only has the availability of drugs in the markets gone down, but the number of drug users seeking treatment has gone up. The de-addiction centres across the Valley are witnessing an increase in the number of abusers seeking treatment. &nbsp;</p>

<p>''The number of abusers seeking treatment has increased. It could be due to the awareness among people about these patients. There is word of mouth. We use oral substitution therapy which is very useful in heroin addicts. Treatment-seeking behaviours are changing and what we also found out from our patients is that there is a decrease in the availability of the drugs in the valley. Due to that, they think it's better to go for treatment and once the supply gets reduced there is an increase in the prices as well. Heroin was sold for 3000 per gm a few years ago and now the rates have gone up to 6000 per gm. This could be due to the decrease in the supply of heroin. On a daily basis, we see around 150-180 patients. From last year, there is coordination among various stakeholders and due to that there is sharing of information which led to curbing the trafficking and helped in overcoming the issue, '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction centre, SMHS, GMC Srinagar.</p>

<p>The study also revealed that huge money was involved in the drug industry of the Valley. Doctors say that Rs. 88,000 ($1,065) are being spent every month by each drug user involved in opiates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The drug abusers in the Valley are seeing a change as well. They say that the drug availability in the market has gone down. The drugs previously were easily available in the Valley, but after the action by the police and administration, there has been a change on the ground. The rates for these drugs have also gone up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-drugs-worth-12-billion-seized-from-two-cities-former-pilot-among-six-arrested-523308">India: Drugs worth $1.2 billion seized from two cities, former pilot among six arrested</a></strong></p>

<p>''I started in 2016, I had an accident and was at home and my friends used to visit me and they gave it to me. They didn't even know how to use it. But then we met some people who taught us how to use heroin. I was fully an addict by 2017. One day I went shopping with my fiancé and I started getting withdrawal symptoms. I was part of a bad friend circle, and they pushed me into this. I started from foil to injection. I used to work and had money. During Covid, the rates went up and the availability has been going down. It used to be available easily but now there is a curb. Now it's very difficult to find it. I have been in rehab for the last year. Two years ago, the drugs were available so easily but now it's very difficult. There is a code word called 'pant' the peddlers use to sell it to youngsters. Now it's hardly available. My parents were depressed, and I couldn't bear that and that's why I stopped, '' a drug abuser currently in rehab said.</p>

<p>The study has revealed that most of the drug abusers are in the age group of 17 and 33 and are mostly among the unemployed population. The most commonly used psychoactive substance was opioids among these abusers. The study also shows that in all ten districts, 67, 468 people have dependence patterns on psychoactive substances while 5,204 individuals among them were opioid dependent. Heroin was a predominant illicit drug that was used among opioid users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most of the drug abusers in the Valley say that the action needs to be taken against the peddlers and that is how the menace of Drugs could be curbed in the valley. According to them, if the abuser does not get the drugs, it will solve all the issues and they want action to be taken against the ones selling these drugs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/600000-youngsters-in-jammu-and-kashmir-have-become-drug-addicts-study-430035">600,000 youngsters in Jammu and Kashmir have become drug addicts: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>''With me, I started with medicinal opiates, I shifted to brown sugar, then to heroin. I left a year ago. It was so easily available, especially in the outskirts of Srinagar and the area close to Sangam. Sometimes even girls would sell it to us. Finding the peddler is easy in Kashmir. Police do not keep them arrested for long. They generally arrest the abusers and not the peddlers. A gram of heroin was for 1200 a few years ago and now a gram is being sold for 7000 Indian rupees. People steal to get drugs. I had money and used to get it from that money. &nbsp;Availability is lesser now, but police should act against the peddlers and not the users first. I left for my mother as she went into depression due to me, '' said a drug abuser who is currently in rehab.</p>

<p>There are many deaths caused by the overdose of drugs in the Valley. It's been observed that 30 to 40 per cent of addicts suffer from overdose symptoms. The majority of overdose patients suffered from Hepatitis-C disease where the liver suffered intense damage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir police have recovered Illicit drugs from various parts of the Union Territory worth crores of rupees in the last few months. The police have also said that most of the drugs supplied come from across the border, Pakistan. Many such consignments were recovered mostly in areas close to the Line of Control (LOC), like Kupwara and Uri. Also, a lot of these drug consignments were dropped via drones from across the International borders in different parts of Jammu.<br />
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Kashmir Valley, famously known as paradise on Earth, has become one of the top Indian states fighting drug abuse. Thousands of syringes are being used to inject heroin in the Valley by drug abusers on a daily basis.

Kashmir Valley, famously known as paradise on Earth, has become one of the top Indian states fighting drug abuse. Thousands of syringes are being used to inject heroin in the Valley by drug abusers on a daily basis. While the government says most of the drugs are sent to Kashmir Valley from across the border, a massive crackdown on drug peddlers has also started across the Union Territory. In a recent study, Kashmir Valley recently surpassed every other state in India to be among the top two states in the country with regard to drug abuse. And one of the most common drugs used here is Heroin. It was revealed in a study that Kashmir was at the number two slot as far as drug abuse was concerned as the region has left behind Punjab which was considered the hub till recently. According to a top police official in the Union Territory, over 5,000 cases have been registered in the last few years against drug peddlers. The action is making a difference on the ground, but the drug mafia is so huge that it will take a lot of time for the administration to clean the mess. ALSO READ | India's biggest-ever drug haul: Officials seize 15,000 blots, busts 'dark net' ring of drug traffickers ''If we talk about the prevalence, we did a survey last year in which we took samples from all the ten districts of Kashmir Valley. It was done in collaboration with the social welfare department and the Directorate of Health. In the survey, we found the prevalence was around 2.87 per cent and if you compare this to other states, we found it more than Punjab which was considered to be the hub of drug abuse. it equals to around 67000 people, and these were dependent on drugs and mostly on heroin. Which is very alarming and most of them were using injections, '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction centre, SMHS, GMC Srinagar. However, experts say that the coordination between all stakeholders in the valley is showing results on the ground. Not only has the availability of drugs in the markets gone down, but the number of drug users seeking treatment has gone up. The de-addiction centres across the Valley are witnessing an increase in the number of abusers seeking treatment. ''The number of abusers seeking treatment has increased. It could be due to the awareness among people about these patients. There is word of mouth. We use oral substitution therapy which is very useful in heroin addicts. Treatment-seeking behaviours are changing and what we also found out from our patients is that there is a decrease in the availability of the drugs in the valley. Due to that, they think it's better to go for treatment and once the supply gets reduced there is an increase in the prices as well. Heroin was sold for 3000 per gm a few years ago and now the rates have gone up to 6000 per gm. This could be due to the decrease in the supply of heroin. On a daily basis, we see around 150-180 patients. From last year, there is coordination among various stakeholders and due to that there is sharing of information which led to curbing the trafficking and helped in overcoming the issue, '' said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor, Incharge drug de-addiction centre, SMHS, GMC Srinagar. The study also revealed that huge money was involved in the drug industry of the Valley. Doctors say that Rs. 88,000 ($1,065) are being spent every month by each drug user involved in opiates. The drug abusers in the Valley are seeing a change as well. They say that the drug availability in the market has gone down. The drugs previously were easily available in the Valley, but after the action by the police and administration, there has been a change on the ground. The rates for these drugs have also gone up. ALSO READ | India: Drugs worth $1.2 billion seized from two cities, former pilot among six arrested ''I started in 2016, I had an accident and was at home and my friends used to visit me and they gave it to me. They didn't even know how to use it. But then we met some people who taught us how to use heroin. I was fully an addict by 2017. One day I went shopping with my fiancé and I started getting withdrawal symptoms. I was part of a bad friend circle, and they pushed me into this. I started from foil to injection. I used to work and had money. During Covid, the rates went up and the availability has been going down. It used to be available easily but now there is a curb. Now it's very difficult to find it. I have been in rehab for the last year. Two years ago, the drugs were available so easily but now it's very difficult. There is a code word called 'pant' the peddlers use to sell it to youngsters. Now it's hardly available. My parents were depressed, and I couldn't bear that and that's why I stopped, '' a drug abuser currently in rehab said. The study has revealed that most of the drug abusers are in the age group of 17 and 33 and are mostly among the unemployed population. The most commonly used psychoactive substance was opioids among these abusers. The study also shows that in all ten districts, 67, 468 people have dependence patterns on psychoactive substances while 5,204 individuals among them were opioid dependent. Heroin was a predominant illicit drug that was used among opioid users. Most of the drug abusers in the Valley say that the action needs to be taken against the peddlers and that is how the menace of Drugs could be curbed in the valley. According to them, if the abuser does not get the drugs, it will solve all the issues and they want action to be taken against the ones selling these drugs. ALSO READ | 600,000 youngsters in Jammu and Kashmir have become drug addicts: Study ''With me, I started with medicinal opiates, I shifted to brown sugar, then to heroin. I left a year ago. It was so easily available, especially in the outskirts of Srinagar and the area close to Sangam. Sometimes even girls would sell it to us. Finding the peddler is easy in Kashmir. Police do not keep them arrested for long. They generally arrest the abusers and not the peddlers. A gram of heroin was for 1200 a few years ago and now a gram is being sold for 7000 Indian rupees. People steal to get drugs. I had money and used to get it from that money. Availability is lesser now, but police should act against the peddlers and not the users first. I left for my mother as she went into depression due to me, '' said a drug abuser who is currently in rehab. There are many deaths caused by the overdose of drugs in the Valley. It's been observed that 30 to 40 per cent of addicts suffer from overdose symptoms. The majority of overdose patients suffered from Hepatitis-C disease where the liver suffered intense damage. The Jammu and Kashmir police have recovered Illicit drugs from various parts of the Union Territory worth crores of rupees in the last few months. The police have also said that most of the drugs supplied come from across the border, Pakistan. Many such consignments were recovered mostly in areas close to the Line of Control (LOC), like Kupwara and Uri. Also, a lot of these drug consignments were dropped via drones from across the International borders in different parts of Jammu. 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: Thousands affected as Kashmir grapples with drug abuse, police begin major crackdown

The film culture is gaining popularity in the Kashmir Valley 30 years after the opening of the first film theater in Srinagar. The first ever Kashmiri-produced film has been released in the valley and the movie is running the houseful over the weekends. 'Welcome to Kashmir' is the first ever Kashmiri-produced Bollywood film releasing in a theater in the valley.

First ever Kashmiri produced Bollywood film 'Welcome to Kashmir' runs full house on weekends

<p>It's June and the maximum temperature during the day in Kashmir Valley is still around 15 degrees. For the people living in the valley, it seems the winter is yet to end, while tourists coming from across India and the world are saying it is no less than heaven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kashmir Valley has been witnessing rains, cloudy skies, and temperatures way below normal in the month of June. Met department says the temperature is around 10-11 degrees below the normal temperature.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/highly-decorated-australian-soldier-loses-case-against-media-giants-amidst-grave-war-crimes-allegations-599163">Highly-decorated Australian soldier loses case against media giants amidst grave war crimes allegations</a></p>

<p>While the whole of India is reeling under severe heat wave conditions, the tourists visiting the valley are enjoying the cold weather. The maximum temperature in the valley these days is around 15 degrees, and it is making the tourists very happy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I am feeling so happy and as If I am in mini Switzerland. I have always seen this in photos and videos and now seeing it in real life is amazing. The climate is so beautiful, In my city of Udaipur, the climate is so hot and there is a heat wave and we have come here to witness amazing weather. I love it, '' said Yaksha Sheth, a tourist from Udaipur.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tragedy-in-indias-haryana-minor-girl-strangulates-younger-brother-as-she-felt-parents-loved-him-more-599137">Tragedy in India's Haryana: Minor girl strangulates younger brother as she felt parents loved him more</a></p>

<p>India's other states like Rajasthan, Chennai, UP and MP are under an intense heatwave and people from these states mostly are visiting the Kashmir Valley numbering in thousands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''It's very hot in Chennai and it's the rainy season in the valley and we are finding this very beautiful. It's so amazing and we are enjoying it the most in the mesmerising valley. We couldn't do the Gondola ride in Gulmarg as we wanted to see the ice as well. But we have been having a lot of fun. The weather is so pleasant. The schools have been closed all over India and people are coming here to witness the beautiful weather, '' said Neetu, a tourist from Chennai.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Singer Sia reveals Autism diagnosis, reflects on personal journey | Details</strong></p>

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<p>Thousands of tourists from across India and the world are in Kashmir Valley, visiting the famous hill stations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg. The tour operators in the valley are getting more queries from visitors from across as the weather plays the main attraction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''The present climate, Kashmir is always known for such weather. And people love to come here during this type of environment and climate. We were having this type of climate decades ago and now after years, we are witnessing such weather again. It's been raining and snowing in the upper reaches. So many tourists are already here on their vacations, they are going to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg and they are also promoting Kashmir themselves via social media and word of mouth. They are tempting others to come to Kashmir. It's a heat wave across the country and we are wearing jackets, so tourists are loving this weather. We are getting more queries and this weather will help us get more tourists, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, Tour Operator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The met department has said that the weather will remain the same for the next one week.&nbsp;</p>

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It's June and the maximum temperature during the day in Kashmir Valley is still around 15 degrees. For the people living in the valley, it seems the winter is yet to end, while tourists coming from across India and the world are saying it is no less than heaven.

It's June and the maximum temperature during the day in Kashmir Valley is still around 15 degrees. For the people living in the valley, it seems the winter is yet to end, while tourists coming from across India and the world are saying it is no less than heaven. Kashmir Valley has been witnessing rains, cloudy skies, and temperatures way below normal in the month of June. Met department says the temperature is around 10-11 degrees below the normal temperature. Also Read | Highly-decorated Australian soldier loses case against media giants amidst grave war crimes allegations While the whole of India is reeling under severe heat wave conditions, the tourists visiting the valley are enjoying the cold weather. The maximum temperature in the valley these days is around 15 degrees, and it is making the tourists very happy. ''I am feeling so happy and as If I am in mini Switzerland. I have always seen this in photos and videos and now seeing it in real life is amazing. The climate is so beautiful, In my city of Udaipur, the climate is so hot and there is a heat wave and we have come here to witness amazing weather. I love it, '' said Yaksha Sheth, a tourist from Udaipur. Also Read | Tragedy in India's Haryana: Minor girl strangulates younger brother as she felt parents loved him more India's other states like Rajasthan, Chennai, UP and MP are under an intense heatwave and people from these states mostly are visiting the Kashmir Valley numbering in thousands. ''It's very hot in Chennai and it's the rainy season in the valley and we are finding this very beautiful. It's so amazing and we are enjoying it the most in the mesmerising valley. We couldn't do the Gondola ride in Gulmarg as we wanted to see the ice as well. But we have been having a lot of fun. The weather is so pleasant. The schools have been closed all over India and people are coming here to witness the beautiful weather, '' said Neetu, a tourist from Chennai. Watch | Singer Sia reveals Autism diagnosis, reflects on personal journey | Details × Thousands of tourists from across India and the world are in Kashmir Valley, visiting the famous hill stations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg. The tour operators in the valley are getting more queries from visitors from across as the weather plays the main attraction. ''The present climate, Kashmir is always known for such weather. And people love to come here during this type of environment and climate. We were having this type of climate decades ago and now after years, we are witnessing such weather again. It's been raining and snowing in the upper reaches. So many tourists are already here on their vacations, they are going to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg and they are also promoting Kashmir themselves via social media and word of mouth. They are tempting others to come to Kashmir. It's a heat wave across the country and we are wearing jackets, so tourists are loving this weather. We are getting more queries and this weather will help us get more tourists, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, Tour Operator. The met department has said that the weather will remain the same for the next one week. 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. ×

Kashmir tourism at peak as 15-degree temperature becomes key attraction for visitors

Embark on extraordinary travel stories with us in WION Wings as we take you on a mesmerising journey through diverse destinations and fascinating global events. Join us as we uncover the world's wonders, witness remarkable achievements, and delve into the captivating beauty of nature. From the prestigious G20 delegates meeting in Kashmir to the vibrant lunar festival in Sofia, Bulgaria, this immersive experience will leave you awestruck.

G20 Kashmir Summit, Kashmir's Floating Vegetable Market & 7 wonders record

<p>An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 struck at 79 kilometres southeast (SE) of Fayzabad, Afghanistan on Sunday morning, as per India's National Centre for Seismology. The epicentre was at a depth of 220 kilometres under the earth's surface.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earthquake of Magnitude:5.2, Occurred on 28-05-2023, 11:19:55 IST, Lat: 36.56 &amp; Long: 71.13, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: Afghanistan for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/KyNMxeUdi9">https://t.co/KyNMxeUdi9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://t.co/LnP2nm7rpV">pic.twitter.com/LnP2nm7rpV</a></p>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1662702601429995523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to preliminary information shared by&nbsp;European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the earthquake was reported to be of magnitude 5.9&nbsp;was felt 70 km east-southeast of Fayzabad, Afghanistan.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚠Preliminary info: M5.9 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B2%D9%84%D8%B2%D9%84%D9%87?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#زلزله</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%B7%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%BB%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%80%D1%8F%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#землетрясение</a>) about 70 km SE of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fayzabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fayzabad</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>) 6 min ago (local time 10:19:57). Updates at:<br />
📱<a href="https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9">https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9</a><br />
🌐<a href="https://t.co/AXvOM7I4Th">https://t.co/AXvOM7I4Th</a><br />
🖥<a href="https://t.co/wPtMW5ND1t">https://t.co/wPtMW5ND1t</a> <a href="https://t.co/aQvXMyWVoJ">pic.twitter.com/aQvXMyWVoJ</a></p>
— EMSC (@LastQuake) <a href="https://twitter.com/LastQuake/status/1662699309702213633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The quake occurred at around 10.19 am as the&nbsp;tremors&nbsp;were also felt&nbsp;in various locations around Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The tremors lasted for a few seconds. However, no instance of any casualty, injuries or damage has been reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>6.5 earthquake hit Indian subcontinent in March</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In late March, a powerful earthquake of 6.5 magnitude struck the Indian subcontinent. The earthquakes, which had their origin in Afghanistan's Hindukush mountain range, were felt in New Delhi and other parts of the National Capital Region as well as in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India. The severe earthquake claimed the lives of over a dozen people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Centre for Seismology of India estimated that the earthquake's epicentre was 156 kilometres under the surface of the planet. At 4:17 PM (Greenwich Mean Time or 10:17 PM Indian Standard Time), earthquake tremors were reported which lasted for few minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh all experienced earthquake tremors. The earthquake shocks in Pakistan were felt in the capital Islamabad as well as the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(This is a developing story.)</strong></em></p>

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An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 struck at 79 kilometres southeast (SE) of Fayzabad, Afghanistan on Sunday morning, as per India's National Centre for Seismology. The epicentre was at a depth of 220 kilometres under the earth's surface.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 struck at 79 kilometres southeast (SE) of Fayzabad, Afghanistan on Sunday morning, as per India's National Centre for Seismology. The epicentre was at a depth of 220 kilometres under the earth's surface. Earthquake of Magnitude:5.2, Occurred on 28-05-2023, 11:19:55 IST, Lat: 36.56 & Long: 71.13, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: Afghanistan for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/KyNMxeUdi9 @ndmaindia @Indiametdept @Dr_Mishra1966 @DDNewslive pic.twitter.com/LnP2nm7rpV — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) May 28, 2023 × According to preliminary information shared by European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the earthquake was reported to be of magnitude 5.9 was felt 70 km east-southeast of Fayzabad, Afghanistan. ⚠Preliminary info: M5.9 #earthquake (#زلزله, #землетрясение) about 70 km SE of #Fayzabad (#Afghanistan) 6 min ago (local time 10:19:57). Updates at: 📱https://t.co/LBaVNedgF9 🌐https://t.co/AXvOM7I4Th 🖥https://t.co/wPtMW5ND1t pic.twitter.com/aQvXMyWVoJ — EMSC (@LastQuake) May 28, 2023 × The quake occurred at around 10.19 am as the tremors were also felt in various locations around Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir. The tremors lasted for a few seconds. However, no instance of any casualty, injuries or damage has been reported. 6.5 earthquake hit Indian subcontinent in March In late March, a powerful earthquake of 6.5 magnitude struck the Indian subcontinent. The earthquakes, which had their origin in Afghanistan's Hindukush mountain range, were felt in New Delhi and other parts of the National Capital Region as well as in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India. The severe earthquake claimed the lives of over a dozen people. The National Centre for Seismology of India estimated that the earthquake's epicentre was 156 kilometres under the surface of the planet. At 4:17 PM (Greenwich Mean Time or 10:17 PM Indian Standard Time), earthquake tremors were reported which lasted for few minutes. Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh all experienced earthquake tremors. The earthquake shocks in Pakistan were felt in the capital Islamabad as well as the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. (This is a developing story.) 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. ×

Magnitude 5.2 earthquake jolts Afghanistan, tremors felt in parts of India

Amid tight security and boycott from some countries including China, India successfully hosted the G20 meeting in Srinagar. What are the key takeaways from the event? Vikram Chandra finds out from former raw chief A.S Dulat on The India Story.

'Kashmiris don't want to join Pakistan' says Ex-Raw Chief A.S Dulat

Implications of G20 Srinagar meet

India is hosting the G20 tourism meeting in Kashmir, the world's largest democracy held the G20 Presidency for 2023 and has planned more than 100 meetings across the country. The G20 meeting aims to strengthen economic growth, preserve cultural heritage and promote sustainable development of the region.

India kickstarts G20 summit in Kashmir, focus on heritage & sustainable development | WION

<p>As Kashmir is hosting the G20 summit for the first time ever, the Department of Handicraft in the Indian Union Territory has put up an exhibition at the G20 meeting venue in Srinagar. The government says it’s an opportunity for the artisans and craftsmen of the Kashmir Valley to showcase their talent at the international level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dozens of stalls have been put up at the Sheri Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) lawns in Srinagar showcasing Kashmiri crafts such as Pashmina shawls, silk carpets, wood carving, paper mache, copper utensils and organic foods. Not only has the Department of Handicraft put up the stalls but also brought in artisans of various arts to demonstrate the making of these products in front of the delegates visiting the Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“For the artisan community of the Kashmir Valley, It's a proud moment for all of us. These events open the international market for us. We hope that our crafts of Kashmir get highlighted in events like these. The government should organise much more events like these in the Valley. It's a plus point for all Kashmiri craft. Holding G20 here and giving us an opportunity to display our craft, we will reach every country around the world,” said Shahnawaz Ahmad, Silk Carpet Expert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The artisans feel that international events like these need to be organised every month which will help the craftsmen to sell the products to international customers and holding such events would draw attention from across the world to the local crafts of Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are hopeful and extremely lucky that G20 is being organised here. People from all across the world are coming to the Valley, and our art would be on display for them. We are hopeful that our art and craft will impress them, and will help us market our products internationally. It will help with a lot of employment in the valley. It will benefit us a lot and I am hopeful we will get a lot of promotion by this event,"&nbsp;said Maqbool Jan, papier mache artist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The skill development department of the Kashmir Valley has over seven lakh women artisans associated with it. A dozen stalls have been put up at the SKICC venue by these women,&nbsp;including the women from rural areas of the Valley. The department sees this as an opportunity for these women to sell their products to international buyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is for the first time, this kind of event is happening in India since 1947, and this is also a big opportunity for the women who are associated with us. We have around seven lakh women associated with our mission, they will be encouraged by this kind of event and to showcase their products. This will give the women a feel of how to sell their products via e-commerce and this event will help them market the products. We have 15 women here who will share their experiences and will inspire other women too,"&nbsp;said Riyaz Beg, Mission Director, Rural Livelihood Mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kashmiri artisans and craftsmen would have many interactions with the delegates during the G20 meeting in Srinagar.&nbsp;<br />
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As Kashmir is hosting the G20 summit for the first time ever, the Department of Handicraft in the Indian Union Territory has put up an exhibition at the G20 meeting venue in Srinagar.

As Kashmir is hosting the G20 summit for the first time ever, the Department of Handicraft in the Indian Union Territory has put up an exhibition at the G20 meeting venue in Srinagar. The government says it’s an opportunity for the artisans and craftsmen of the Kashmir Valley to showcase their talent at the international level. Dozens of stalls have been put up at the Sheri Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) lawns in Srinagar showcasing Kashmiri crafts such as Pashmina shawls, silk carpets, wood carving, paper mache, copper utensils and organic foods. Not only has the Department of Handicraft put up the stalls but also brought in artisans of various arts to demonstrate the making of these products in front of the delegates visiting the Valley. “For the artisan community of the Kashmir Valley, It's a proud moment for all of us. These events open the international market for us. We hope that our crafts of Kashmir get highlighted in events like these. The government should organise much more events like these in the Valley. It's a plus point for all Kashmiri craft. Holding G20 here and giving us an opportunity to display our craft, we will reach every country around the world,” said Shahnawaz Ahmad, Silk Carpet Expert. The artisans feel that international events like these need to be organised every month which will help the craftsmen to sell the products to international customers and holding such events would draw attention from across the world to the local crafts of Kashmir Valley. "We are hopeful and extremely lucky that G20 is being organised here. People from all across the world are coming to the Valley, and our art would be on display for them. We are hopeful that our art and craft will impress them, and will help us market our products internationally. It will help with a lot of employment in the valley. It will benefit us a lot and I am hopeful we will get a lot of promotion by this event," said Maqbool Jan, papier mache artist. The skill development department of the Kashmir Valley has over seven lakh women artisans associated with it. A dozen stalls have been put up at the SKICC venue by these women, including the women from rural areas of the Valley. The department sees this as an opportunity for these women to sell their products to international buyers. "This is for the first time, this kind of event is happening in India since 1947, and this is also a big opportunity for the women who are associated with us. We have around seven lakh women associated with our mission, they will be encouraged by this kind of event and to showcase their products. This will give the women a feel of how to sell their products via e-commerce and this event will help them market the products. We have 15 women here who will share their experiences and will inspire other women too," said Riyaz Beg, Mission Director, Rural Livelihood Mission. Kashmiri artisans and craftsmen would have many interactions with the delegates during the G20 meeting in Srinagar. 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: Exhibition set up to showcase the talent, promote Kashmir crafts at G20 venue in Srinagar

<p>As temperatures soar&nbsp;across India in the month of May, the famous ski resort Gulmarg in Kashmir valley is greeting tourists with snow as a surprise. Thousands of tourists are thronging the hill station to witness the snow and enjoy the cold weather.&nbsp;They&nbsp;consider&nbsp; themselves lucky to have witnessed snow during their visit to the valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>14000 feet above&nbsp;the sea level, Gulmarg's&nbsp;Apharwat is being visited by thousands of tourists every day. Wearing winter jackets and woollens in the month of May is surprising for the tourists as they witness&nbsp;heaps of snow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I came with a wish to witness the snow. I had heard winters are cold but in the month of May I didn't expect this much cold. I had come 42 years ago with my parents, and I am feeling so lucky to visit again with my wife and kids. I urge all people to come and see this paradise on earth,'' said Jesus Sahu, a tourist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There has been drastic change in weather in the month of May, with higher reaches of the Kashmir valley witnessing&nbsp;fresh spell of snowfall recently. The temperatures are recorded below normal still in the Union Territory, making it extremely pleasant for the tourists coming to the Kashmir region. It has also translated into more earnings for the locals. The hoteliers, traders and craftsmen in the valley have had a great start to the year 2023. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Tourists coming to the Kashmir valley are praising the natural beauty as well as the local people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''My experience is that you don't&nbsp;need a therapist if you visit Kashmir. It's so calm and peaceful and beyond your imagination. We watched it in movies but in reality it is even better, and we loved it a lot. The people are very friendly and helpful. I so wanted to see the snow and I am happy that we got to see the snow,"&nbsp;said Supan Sahu, another&nbsp;tourist.</p>

<p>Gulmarg&nbsp;broke all the previous records of tourist arrivals in the last winters. All the hotels and guest houses at the hill station were completely booked all through the winter season.</p>

<p>Skiers not only from India but from across the world had come to ski in the mountains of Gulmarg. Various winter festivals were arranged for tourists coming to Gulmarg. And tourists arriving in Gulmarg even now are all praises for the beautiful visuals they are experiencing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Kashmir is a paradise on earth. This place takes away all your mental stress, whatever stress we had is completely gone. It's so peaceful here. The valley is beautiful, and people are good. This&nbsp;visit made me very happy,'' said Shreya Chakraborty, a tourist.</p>

<p>The meteorological department has predicted more rains and snow towards the end of this month.&nbsp;</p>

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As temperatures soar across India in the month of May, the famous ski resort Gulmarg in Kashmir valley is greeting tourists with snow as a surprise. Thousands of tourists are thronging the hill station to witness the snow and enjoy the cold weather.

As temperatures soar across India in the month of May, the famous ski resort Gulmarg in Kashmir valley is greeting tourists with snow as a surprise. Thousands of tourists are thronging the hill station to witness the snow and enjoy the cold weather. They consider themselves lucky to have witnessed snow during their visit to the valley. 14000 feet above the sea level, Gulmarg's Apharwat is being visited by thousands of tourists every day. Wearing winter jackets and woollens in the month of May is surprising for the tourists as they witness heaps of snow. ''I came with a wish to witness the snow. I had heard winters are cold but in the month of May I didn't expect this much cold. I had come 42 years ago with my parents, and I am feeling so lucky to visit again with my wife and kids. I urge all people to come and see this paradise on earth,'' said Jesus Sahu, a tourist. There has been drastic change in weather in the month of May, with higher reaches of the Kashmir valley witnessing fresh spell of snowfall recently. The temperatures are recorded below normal still in the Union Territory, making it extremely pleasant for the tourists coming to the Kashmir region. It has also translated into more earnings for the locals. The hoteliers, traders and craftsmen in the valley have had a great start to the year 2023. Tourists coming to the Kashmir valley are praising the natural beauty as well as the local people. ''My experience is that you don't need a therapist if you visit Kashmir. It's so calm and peaceful and beyond your imagination. We watched it in movies but in reality it is even better, and we loved it a lot. The people are very friendly and helpful. I so wanted to see the snow and I am happy that we got to see the snow," said Supan Sahu, another tourist. Gulmarg broke all the previous records of tourist arrivals in the last winters. All the hotels and guest houses at the hill station were completely booked all through the winter season. Skiers not only from India but from across the world had come to ski in the mountains of Gulmarg. Various winter festivals were arranged for tourists coming to Gulmarg. And tourists arriving in Gulmarg even now are all praises for the beautiful visuals they are experiencing. ''Kashmir is a paradise on earth. This place takes away all your mental stress, whatever stress we had is completely gone. It's so peaceful here. The valley is beautiful, and people are good. This visit made me very happy,'' said Shreya Chakraborty, a tourist. The meteorological department has predicted more rains and snow towards the end of this month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Ski resort Gulmarg in Kashmir surprises tourists with snow in May

<p>Kashmir Valley once used to be Hindi film industry's favourite destination for shooting for decades before the insurgency. Now, Jammu and Kashmir Government's tourism department is working to revive film tourism in the valley. More than 300 new destinations have been identified for shooting of films.</p>

<p>In last one year, Jammu and Kashmir has had over 200 shoots which included those of films, web series and drama. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan shot for his film recently as well. The government has a film policy in place to make conditions suitable for film crews. The government has introduced one window approvals for shooting in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Jammu and Kashmir used to be famous for film shootings during the 1960's, 70's, and 80's. If a part of a film was not shot in Jammu Kashmir, it was considered incomplete. Our effort, from the department of tourism, is that once again, Jammu and Kashmir should be brought into the mainstream of film shoots. You would be surprised to know that in the last one year we have had over 200 shoots which include films, web series and Drama due to which we realise the scope has increased now," said Syed Abid Rashid, Administrative Secretary, JK Tourism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are adding three hundred new destinations for the shoots this year. These include offbeat destinations, religious tourism destinations and adventure treks. We will have around 75 adventure treks, 75 religious tourism and 75 cultural tourism destinations. We will try to upscale them and start promotions at national and international level. We have our one window film policy," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kashmir is hosting G20 meetings between May 22-24 and the main focus of the meetings will include tourism. The Jammu and Kashmir government believes that the event would eventually mean more footfall of domestic as well as International filmmakers. The government is also trying to carry out international promotions to attract filmmakers from across the world.</p>

<p>"G20 is happening by the end of this month, the core focus area of it is tourism. So, it's an immense opportunity to project Jammu and Kashmir at an international level and promote it. We will have a lot of advantages and in future tourist footfall, the international tourist footfall in terms of film tourism will increase. I think this historical event is happening for the first time since 1947. It is one of the biggest events to be held in Kashmir to showcase JK to the whole world," said Syed Abid Rashid, Administrative Secretary, JK Tourism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The local film makers are also hopeful that after G20, there would be more and more film crews as well as tourists coming to the union territory. And by opening these new destinations for the film crews, more and more film productions will choose valley for their shoots and will also generate employment at the local level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's very nice to promote the tourism of Kashmir or JK as a whole. There are many places other than Gulmarg and Pahalgam in the Valley which need to be explored. The local Kashmiris want other places to be opened and which are shooting worthy, and I am extremely happy about it. It will create new job opportunities as hotels will open, taxi stands will open which means good for the industry. I am very happy about G20. Kashmir is already on the world map of tourism. G20 happening here means a lot for the locals, the government and also the film makers. It will bring Kashmir in the world limelight once again and for a good reason. It's good for films and tourism," said Mushtaq Ali Khan, a filmmaker and festival director of Kashmir Film Festival.</p>

<p>The Government of India believes that upcoming G20 meetings in Srinagar will showcase the valley as an international film shooting destination.&nbsp;</p>

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Kashmir Valley once used to be Hindi film industry's favourite destination for shooting for decades before the insurgency. Now, Jammu and Kashmir Government's tourism department is working to revive film tourism in the valley.

Kashmir Valley once used to be Hindi film industry's favourite destination for shooting for decades before the insurgency. Now, Jammu and Kashmir Government's tourism department is working to revive film tourism in the valley. More than 300 new destinations have been identified for shooting of films. In last one year, Jammu and Kashmir has had over 200 shoots which included those of films, web series and drama. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan shot for his film recently as well. The government has a film policy in place to make conditions suitable for film crews. The government has introduced one window approvals for shooting in Jammu and Kashmir. "Jammu and Kashmir used to be famous for film shootings during the 1960's, 70's, and 80's. If a part of a film was not shot in Jammu Kashmir, it was considered incomplete. Our effort, from the department of tourism, is that once again, Jammu and Kashmir should be brought into the mainstream of film shoots. You would be surprised to know that in the last one year we have had over 200 shoots which include films, web series and Drama due to which we realise the scope has increased now," said Syed Abid Rashid, Administrative Secretary, JK Tourism. "We are adding three hundred new destinations for the shoots this year. These include offbeat destinations, religious tourism destinations and adventure treks. We will have around 75 adventure treks, 75 religious tourism and 75 cultural tourism destinations. We will try to upscale them and start promotions at national and international level. We have our one window film policy," he added. Kashmir is hosting G20 meetings between May 22-24 and the main focus of the meetings will include tourism. The Jammu and Kashmir government believes that the event would eventually mean more footfall of domestic as well as International filmmakers. The government is also trying to carry out international promotions to attract filmmakers from across the world. "G20 is happening by the end of this month, the core focus area of it is tourism. So, it's an immense opportunity to project Jammu and Kashmir at an international level and promote it. We will have a lot of advantages and in future tourist footfall, the international tourist footfall in terms of film tourism will increase. I think this historical event is happening for the first time since 1947. It is one of the biggest events to be held in Kashmir to showcase JK to the whole world," said Syed Abid Rashid, Administrative Secretary, JK Tourism. The local film makers are also hopeful that after G20, there would be more and more film crews as well as tourists coming to the union territory. And by opening these new destinations for the film crews, more and more film productions will choose valley for their shoots and will also generate employment at the local level. "It's very nice to promote the tourism of Kashmir or JK as a whole. There are many places other than Gulmarg and Pahalgam in the Valley which need to be explored. The local Kashmiris want other places to be opened and which are shooting worthy, and I am extremely happy about it. It will create new job opportunities as hotels will open, taxi stands will open which means good for the industry. I am very happy about G20. Kashmir is already on the world map of tourism. G20 happening here means a lot for the locals, the government and also the film makers. It will bring Kashmir in the world limelight once again and for a good reason. It's good for films and tourism," said Mushtaq Ali Khan, a filmmaker and festival director of Kashmir Film Festival. The Government of India believes that upcoming G20 meetings in Srinagar will showcase the valley as an international film shooting destination. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kashmir opens 300 new film destinations, over 200 films shot in last one year

The apple farmers and traders in the Kashmir Valley are extremely happy after the Indian government decided to amend its import policy for apples. The central government recently changed the import policy of India for apples and also banned the import of apples below the minimum price.

India: Kashmiri apple farmers happy after Indian government amends apple import policy

<p>In a rare discovery, the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) have discovered a rare kind of fish for the first time in Dal Lake. According to the experts, the fish is called an 'Alligator Gar' fish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) was cleaning the world-famous Dal Lake ahead of the G20 meeting&nbsp;since the venue is near the lake.</p>

<p>While the officials undertook the cleaning, they found the rare fish in the Dal Lake. The officials with the government said that the fish has a crocodile-like head and razor-sharp teeth.</p>

<p>The 'Alligator Gar' fish is native to North America.</p>

<p>"Our machines were carrying out de-weeding in Dal Lake and suddenly this fish appeared on the machine. For the first time we have seen such a type of fish which is known as the Alligator Gar. It was surprising for all of us, and no one had seen a fish like this which resembles the crocodile. Most of us were shocked. We are analysing the situation and we are seeking support from the fisheries department. We will see if there are more of these fish in the lake," said Masood Ahmad, an expert from J&amp;K LCMA’s research and monitoring department.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Alligator Gar Fish" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f28cc69e-04d1-41b2-9065-58c2639b73e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%281%29_5.jpeg" /></p>

<p><em>(Image: Idrees Lone)</em></p>

<p>Social media is abuzz with videos of the rare fish 'Alligator Gar' being discovered in Dal Lake. The people in the valley and specially those who live on the Dal Lake have shown concern about finding a rare fish in the lake. Some of them even expressed concern and said that the fish could be an invasive species and a threat to natural aquatic life of Dal Lake.</p>

<p>"The Alligator Gar fish has been sighted for the first time in Kashmir. This fish is not harmful, but we don't have any research on it as this is the first time it has been seen here in the Dal Lake,” said Dr Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Dean at the Faculty of Fisheries, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kashmir.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-lg-manoj-sinha-inaugurates-first-smart-city-projects-591715 ">Jammu &amp; Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurates first smart city projects</a></strong></p>

<p>This is not the first time that rare fish have been spotted in the Dal Lake. In 2016, a Grass Carp fish was found, while another was found in Manasbal Lake.</p>

<p>Government officials said that they will look into how and where has the fish come from and how long it has been here. Proper research will be carried out to determine how it reached the lake or whether it poses any danger to&nbsp;the local fish varieties in the Kashmir valley.&nbsp;</p>

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In a rare discovery, the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) have discovered a rare kind of fish for the first time in Dal Lake. According to the experts, the fish is called an 'Alligator Gar' fish.

In a rare discovery, the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) have discovered a rare kind of fish for the first time in Dal Lake. According to the experts, the fish is called an 'Alligator Gar' fish. The Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) was cleaning the world-famous Dal Lake ahead of the G20 meeting since the venue is near the lake. While the officials undertook the cleaning, they found the rare fish in the Dal Lake. The officials with the government said that the fish has a crocodile-like head and razor-sharp teeth. The 'Alligator Gar' fish is native to North America. "Our machines were carrying out de-weeding in Dal Lake and suddenly this fish appeared on the machine. For the first time we have seen such a type of fish which is known as the Alligator Gar. It was surprising for all of us, and no one had seen a fish like this which resembles the crocodile. Most of us were shocked. We are analysing the situation and we are seeking support from the fisheries department. We will see if there are more of these fish in the lake," said Masood Ahmad, an expert from J&K LCMA’s research and monitoring department. (Image: Idrees Lone) Social media is abuzz with videos of the rare fish 'Alligator Gar' being discovered in Dal Lake. The people in the valley and specially those who live on the Dal Lake have shown concern about finding a rare fish in the lake. Some of them even expressed concern and said that the fish could be an invasive species and a threat to natural aquatic life of Dal Lake. "The Alligator Gar fish has been sighted for the first time in Kashmir. This fish is not harmful, but we don't have any research on it as this is the first time it has been seen here in the Dal Lake,” said Dr Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Dean at the Faculty of Fisheries, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kashmir. Also Read | Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurates first smart city projects This is not the first time that rare fish have been spotted in the Dal Lake. In 2016, a Grass Carp fish was found, while another was found in Manasbal Lake. Government officials said that they will look into how and where has the fish come from and how long it has been here. Proper research will be carried out to determine how it reached the lake or whether it poses any danger to the local fish varieties in the Kashmir valley. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Rare Alligator Gar Fish found in Dal Lake of Kashmir

Kashmir University has undertaken a massive initiative to encourage the participation of students in India's G20 journey. The University hosted the International Y20 consultation meetings in line with the Indian Presidency of the Group 17.

India: Kashmir hosts Intl' Y20 meetings, to tackle global warming concerns

<p>Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.</p>

<p>Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper.</p>

<p>Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday.</p>

<p>“Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of&nbsp;China Pakistan Economic Corridor&nbsp;(CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.”</p>

<p>It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting.</p>

<h2><strong>SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism</strong></h2>

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<p>“On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.”</p>

<p>India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).</p>

<p>India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.</p>

<p>Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi&nbsp;rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.”</p>

<p>“We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project. Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper. Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday. “Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.” It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting. SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism “On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.” India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.” “We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan, China again rake up Kashmir, reaffirm commitment to CPEC after India’s jibe

World's highest bridge will open to visitors in December this year. Chenab bridge is located in Kashmir over Chenab river and it is India's engineering marvel. What are its features? What are its benefits? How will it play a crucial role in the life of local inhabitants? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: World's highest railway bridge in Kashmir

There is such a messiah in Kashmir who is distributing life to the people. Shabbir Hussain Khan has saved hundreds of lives by donating blood for the last 42 years.

Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood

<p dir="ltr">Kashmir has always had some amazing inspiring stories and one such story is of Shabir Hussain Khan. Khan is also known as the 'Blood man of Kashmir' as he has donated over 182 pints of blood in the last 42 years saving hundreds of lives of people in need of blood in the Kashmir valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shabir Hussain Khan's story started in 1980 when his friend met with an accident in Jammu and Kashmir summer capital in Srinagar. He went to the hospital to donate blood for his friend and since then he has donated 182 pints of blood in the last four decades. Not only has he donated blood hundreds of times but also organised over 1200 blood donation camps across the union territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I started over 40 years ago around 1980 in the SMHS Hospital in Srinagar Medical College. My friend had an accident, and I went to donate blood for him, but then I continued to donate blood. It created some beautiful satisfaction in my heart, as I belong to a BPL family, and I used to see people in trouble finding it difficult to get blood in these hospitals. I thought it is the best thing to do for humanity. Our Islam also teaches us the same. I have donated 182 pints of blood since 1980, I have organised more than 1200 blood donation camps across the valley, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, volunteer blood donor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan has been called the biggest life saver of the union territory. He says he will keep donating his blood till the time he is alive. As his blood group is O negative making him a universal donor, he says saving lives is his life's mission and the best satisfaction as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I had only and only thought that Allah will bless me if I help the people in need. My blood group is O negative, and a lot of children require it and I feel proud that I am able to help. Allah had decided this for me, and I think it is the best thing that could have happened to me. When humans donate blood, they leave everything in the hands of God. People pray for me all the time and I have made this promise to myself that I will keep donating my blood till I am alive, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, Volunteer Blood Donor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shabir has been continuously doing awareness programmes across the Kashmir valley and inspiring thousands of youngsters to donate blood for people in need. He has been motivating people to donate blood. Shabir also held blood donation camps during the peak of corona time for the people in need.</p>

<p>Shabir's only wish is that the government of India recognises his and the efforts of other blood donors in the valley. Shabir has not received a single government award for being the highest blood donor of the union territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Government does not recognise our efforts, ten times my name was sent for state award but did get it. I hope there is a scheme for blood donors. They need to be appreciated for their work. They need the government to appreciate their efforts. The refreshments for the donors are nothing, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, volunteer blood donor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shabir Hussain Khan's journey in blood donation started decades ago and he continues to save lives of people without getting anything in return.</p>

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Kashmir has always had some amazing inspiring stories and one such story is of Shabir Hussain Khan. Khan is also known as the 'Blood man of Kashmir' as he has donated over 182 pints of blood in the last 42 years saving hundreds of lives of people in need of blood in the Kashmir valley.

Kashmir has always had some amazing inspiring stories and one such story is of Shabir Hussain Khan. Khan is also known as the 'Blood man of Kashmir' as he has donated over 182 pints of blood in the last 42 years saving hundreds of lives of people in need of blood in the Kashmir valley. Shabir Hussain Khan's story started in 1980 when his friend met with an accident in Jammu and Kashmir summer capital in Srinagar. He went to the hospital to donate blood for his friend and since then he has donated 182 pints of blood in the last four decades. Not only has he donated blood hundreds of times but also organised over 1200 blood donation camps across the union territory. ''I started over 40 years ago around 1980 in the SMHS Hospital in Srinagar Medical College. My friend had an accident, and I went to donate blood for him, but then I continued to donate blood. It created some beautiful satisfaction in my heart, as I belong to a BPL family, and I used to see people in trouble finding it difficult to get blood in these hospitals. I thought it is the best thing to do for humanity. Our Islam also teaches us the same. I have donated 182 pints of blood since 1980, I have organised more than 1200 blood donation camps across the valley, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, volunteer blood donor. Khan has been called the biggest life saver of the union territory. He says he will keep donating his blood till the time he is alive. As his blood group is O negative making him a universal donor, he says saving lives is his life's mission and the best satisfaction as well. ''I had only and only thought that Allah will bless me if I help the people in need. My blood group is O negative, and a lot of children require it and I feel proud that I am able to help. Allah had decided this for me, and I think it is the best thing that could have happened to me. When humans donate blood, they leave everything in the hands of God. People pray for me all the time and I have made this promise to myself that I will keep donating my blood till I am alive, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, Volunteer Blood Donor. Shabir has been continuously doing awareness programmes across the Kashmir valley and inspiring thousands of youngsters to donate blood for people in need. He has been motivating people to donate blood. Shabir also held blood donation camps during the peak of corona time for the people in need. Shabir's only wish is that the government of India recognises his and the efforts of other blood donors in the valley. Shabir has not received a single government award for being the highest blood donor of the union territory. ''Government does not recognise our efforts, ten times my name was sent for state award but did get it. I hope there is a scheme for blood donors. They need to be appreciated for their work. They need the government to appreciate their efforts. The refreshments for the donors are nothing, '' said Shabir Hussain Khan, volunteer blood donor. Shabir Hussain Khan's journey in blood donation started decades ago and he continues to save lives of people without getting anything in return. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India | Meet the 'Blood man of Kashmir' who has donated 182 pints in 42 years

The NIA or India's national terror agency in Kashmir has attached the properties of son of terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen's Chief Syed Salahuddin's son located in Srinagar and the property has been attached under the stringent Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

Indian govt's crackdown on terror: NIA attaches property of Hizbul Chief's son

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