In the second phase of the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Over 25.78 lakh voters will decide the fate of 239 candidates in the fray for 26 assembly constituencies. The second phase of the Legislative Assembly will cover 26 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) across six districts of J&amp;K, including Ganderbal, Srinagar and Budgam in Kashmir Division, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu Division.

The second phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will see some of the most prominent faces in fray including the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah, APNI Party chief Altaf Bukhari, Congress state president Tariq Hameed Karra, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi of PDP and Ravindra Raina, state president BJP.

Beerwah Budgam 
 
1. Omar Abdullah (NC) 
2. Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi (PDP)

Central Shalteng 
 
1. Tariq Hameed Karra (Cong) 
2. Muhammad Irafn Shah (Independent) NC Rebel 
3. Abdul Qayum Bhat (PDP)&nbsp;

Eidgah 
 
1. Arif Majeed Pampore (BJP) 
2. Mohammad Khurshid Alam (PDP) 
3. Mubarik Gul (NC)

Channa Pora 
 
1. Altaf Bukhari (Apni Party) 
2. Mohammed Iqbal Trumboo (PDP) 
3. Mushtaq Guroo (NC)

Ganderbal

1. Sarjan Ahmad Wagay (IND) 
2. Omar Abudllah (NC) 
3. Ishfaq Ahmed Sheikh (IND) 
4. Bashir Ahmad Mir (PDP)

Habba Kadal&nbsp; 
 
1. Arif Irshad Laigroo (PDP)&nbsp; 
2. Sanjay Saraj (RLJP)&nbsp; 
3. Muzzafar Shah (ANC)&nbsp; 
4. Ashok Kumar Bhat (BJP)&nbsp; 
5. Shameena Firdous (NC)

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-kashmir-elections-2024-59-voter-turnout-in-phase-one-of-jk-assembly-election-759920" target="_blank">Watch | Jammu &amp; Kashmir Elections 2024: Historic Voter Turnout In Phase One of J&amp;K Assembly Election</a>

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In Kashmir division, 15 Assembly Constituencies are up for election, viz., Kangan, Ganderbal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, Habbakadal, Lal Chowk, Channapora, Zadibal, Eidgah, 26-Central Shalteng, Budgam; Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-I-Sharief and Chadoora. Whereas in Jammu division, 11 Assembly Constituencies which include Gulabgarh, Reasi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Kalakote- Sunderbani, Nowshera, Rajouri, Budhal, Thannamandi, Surankote, Poonch Havel and Mendhar will go to polls.&nbsp;

According to the latest electoral rolls, 25,78,099 &nbsp;lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballot in this phase, comprising 13,12,730 &nbsp;lakh male voters, 12,65,316 &nbsp;lakh female voters and 53 third-gender voters. Underlining the significance of the role played by the youth of Jammu and Kashmir in strengthening the democracy, as many as 1,20,612 &nbsp;lakh voters aged 18 to 19 are eligible to vote in phase II of the Assembly Elections. Among these, 11,294 are male and 10,065 are female first-time voters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-security-heightened-ahead-of-second-phase-of-polling-761407">Also read |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Security heightened ahead of second phase of polling</a>

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has established 3,502 polling stations with 100 per cent webcasting across 26 Assembly Constituencies. These include 1,056 Urban Polling stations and 2,446 Rural Polling stations.

To enhance voter participation, 157 special polling stations have been established in the second phase including 26 polling booths managed by women as Pink Polling Stations, 26 polling stations manned by specially-abled persons, 26 polling stations manned by youths, 31 Border polling stations, 26 green polling stations and 22 Unique Polling stations. The voting will take place from 7.00 am to 6.00 pm IST

In the second phase of the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Over 25.78 lakh voters will decide the fate of 239 candidates in the fray for 26 assembly constituencies.

In the second phase of the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Over 25.78 lakh voters will decide the fate of 239 candidates in the fray for 26 assembly constituencies. The second phase of the Legislative Assembly will cover 26 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) across six districts of J&K, including Ganderbal, Srinagar and Budgam in Kashmir Division, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu Division. The second phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will see some of the most prominent faces in fray including the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah, APNI Party chief Altaf Bukhari, Congress state president Tariq Hameed Karra, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi of PDP and Ravindra Raina, state president BJP. Beerwah Budgam 1. Omar Abdullah (NC) 2. Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi (PDP) Central Shalteng 1. Tariq Hameed Karra (Cong) 2. Muhammad Irafn Shah (Independent) NC Rebel 3. Abdul Qayum Bhat (PDP) Eidgah 1. Arif Majeed Pampore (BJP) 2. Mohammad Khurshid Alam (PDP) 3. Mubarik Gul (NC) Channa Pora 1. Altaf Bukhari (Apni Party) 2. Mohammed Iqbal Trumboo (PDP) 3. Mushtaq Guroo (NC) Ganderbal 1. Sarjan Ahmad Wagay (IND) 2. Omar Abudllah (NC) 3. Ishfaq Ahmed Sheikh (IND) 4. Bashir Ahmad Mir (PDP) Habba Kadal 1. Arif Irshad Laigroo (PDP) 2. Sanjay Saraj (RLJP) 3. Muzzafar Shah (ANC) 4. Ashok Kumar Bhat (BJP) 5. Shameena Firdous (NC) Watch | Jammu & Kashmir Elections 2024: Historic Voter Turnout In Phase One of J&K Assembly Election In Kashmir division, 15 Assembly Constituencies are up for election, viz., Kangan, Ganderbal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, Habbakadal, Lal Chowk, Channapora, Zadibal, Eidgah, 26-Central Shalteng, Budgam; Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-I-Sharief and Chadoora. Whereas in Jammu division, 11 Assembly Constituencies which include Gulabgarh, Reasi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Kalakote- Sunderbani, Nowshera, Rajouri, Budhal, Thannamandi, Surankote, Poonch Havel and Mendhar will go to polls. According to the latest electoral rolls, 25,78,099 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballot in this phase, comprising 13,12,730 lakh male voters, 12,65,316 lakh female voters and 53 third-gender voters. Underlining the significance of the role played by the youth of Jammu and Kashmir in strengthening the democracy, as many as 1,20,612 lakh voters aged 18 to 19 are eligible to vote in phase II of the Assembly Elections. Among these, 11,294 are male and 10,065 are female first-time voters. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Security heightened ahead of second phase of polling The Election Commission of India (ECI) has established 3,502 polling stations with 100 per cent webcasting across 26 Assembly Constituencies. These include 1,056 Urban Polling stations and 2,446 Rural Polling stations. To enhance voter participation, 157 special polling stations have been established in the second phase including 26 polling booths managed by women as Pink Polling Stations, 26 polling stations manned by specially-abled persons, 26 polling stations manned by youths, 31 Border polling stations, 26 green polling stations and 22 Unique Polling stations. The voting will take place from 7.00 am to 6.00 pm IST

Jammu & Kashmir: Big names in fray for 26 assembly seats in second phase of polls

Amid tight security arrangements, the polling for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began on Wednesday (Sep 18).&nbsp;In other news, shocking details continue to emerge from the Lebanon pager explosions that neutralised nine alleged Hezbollah militants on Tuesday (Sep 17).&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-assembly-election-2024-phase-1-poll-live-voting-updates-eci-news-759593">LIVE | Jammu and Kashmir Elections Phase 1: Congress urges voters to remember 'travesty' of downgrade to UT</a>

As per the Election Commission of India, voting commenced at 7 am and will come to a close at 6 pm. In the first phase of elections, a total of 24 assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir will go to polls. Of these, 16 seats are in the Kashmir region and 8 seats are in the Jammu region.

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A bill that sought to enshrine the right for American couples to avail of IVF treatments was blocked by Republicans in the US Senate on Tuesday (Sep 17). This comes just days after Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump surprised voters by voicing his support for the procedure.

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Gold Apollo, the Taiwanese company whose pagers reportedly exploded in Lebanon, killing nine alleged Hezbollah fighters while injuring over 3,000, has claimed that it didn't make the devices, albeit had only licensed its name.

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The former US president who is vying for a second term in the White House while campaigning on Tuesday (Sep 17) boasted that "only consequential presidents get shot at".

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&nbsp;

Amid tight security arrangements, the polling for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began on Wednesday (Sep 18). In other news, shocking details continue to emerge from the Lebanon pager explosions that neutralised nine alleged Hezbollah militants on Tuesday (Sep 17).

Amid tight security arrangements, the polling for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began on Wednesday (Sep 18). In other news, shocking details continue to emerge from the Lebanon pager explosions that neutralised nine alleged Hezbollah militants on Tuesday (Sep 17). Click on headlines to read more: LIVE | Jammu and Kashmir Elections Phase 1: Congress urges voters to remember 'travesty' of downgrade to UT As per the Election Commission of India, voting commenced at 7 am and will come to a close at 6 pm. In the first phase of elections, a total of 24 assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir will go to polls. Of these, 16 seats are in the Kashmir region and 8 seats are in the Jammu region. Republicans in US Senate block passage of bill that would've guaranteed access to IVF A bill that sought to enshrine the right for American couples to avail of IVF treatments was blocked by Republicans in the US Senate on Tuesday (Sep 17). This comes just days after Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump surprised voters by voicing his support for the procedure. Taiwanese company whose pagers exploded in Lebanon denies manufacturing them Gold Apollo, the Taiwanese company whose pagers reportedly exploded in Lebanon, killing nine alleged Hezbollah fighters while injuring over 3,000, has claimed that it didn't make the devices, albeit had only licensed its name. 'Only consequential presidents get shot at,' boasts Trump after second assassination attempt The former US president who is vying for a second term in the White House while campaigning on Tuesday (Sep 17) boasted that "only consequential presidents get shot at". Watch | Israel's pager blasts: Hezbollah vows to punish Israel after blasts ×

Morning news brief: Jammu & Kashmir assembly polls; Lebanon pager explosions, and more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 14) held a political rally in the northern Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, where he declared that terrorism was on its “last breath” in the area. Addressing people from the Doda district, PM Modi vowed to free the state from dynastic politics.

"We and you together will make Jammu and Kashmir a secure and prosperous part of the country," he said.

PM Modi also criticised rival parties in the state, dubbing the upcoming assembly polls as a contest between three families — Congress, the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) — and the youth of the region.

He promised more employment opportunities to the youth and pledged to make the UT a paradise for tourists.

The Indian PM declared his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will grant full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir if the party comes to power.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj5j_zswcKIAxVVT2wGHRo5HYIQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-assembly-polls-2024-dozens-of-separatists-family-members-in-election-fray-758454" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-assembly-polls-2024-dozens-of-separatists-family-members-in-election-fray-758454&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5j_zswcKIAxVVT2wGHRo5HYIQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls 2024: Dozens of separatists, family members in election fray</a>

Security had been beefed up ahead of PM Modi’s visit to the area. Jammu and Kashmir will witness assembly polls on September 18, 25 and October 1 and the results will be out on October 8. The three-phase polls are the first after the abrogation of the special status of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;in 2019.

<h2>Congress launches attack</h2>

India’s main opposition Congress party was quick to fact check PM Modi’s big claim on terrorism, saying there had been “25 terror attacks in the Union territory” in the 98 days of his third term.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said, “Huge claims were made that after August 2019, peace will be established in Jammu and Kashmir. I will not talk about the time since 2014 or 2019, but it has been 98 days since Modi was sworn in. In the last 98 days, there have been 25 terror strikes in J-K in which 21 security personnel were martyred, while 28 others were injured."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj5j_zswcKIAxVVT2wGHRo5HYIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-indian-army-soldiers-injured-in-jks-kishtwar-encounter-operation-continues-758508" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-indian-army-soldiers-injured-in-jks-kishtwar-encounter-operation-continues-758508&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5j_zswcKIAxVVT2wGHRo5HYIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Two Indian Army soldiers killed in Jammu and Kashmir`s Kishtwar encounter, operation continues</a>

Shrinate also took the opportunity to pay tribute to two Indian soldiers who lost their lives while battling terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar on Friday and questioned PM Modi’s silence over the matter.

"PM tweets on small issues, discovers new countries on the world map to travel to and wishes happy birthday to people, but since 2019, Modi has stopped sending tribute or sympathy messages," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 14) held a political rally in the northern Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, where he declared that terrorism was on its “last breath” in the area.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 14) held a political rally in the northern Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, where he declared that terrorism was on its “last breath” in the area. Addressing people from the Doda district, PM Modi vowed to free the state from dynastic politics. "We and you together will make Jammu and Kashmir a secure and prosperous part of the country," he said. PM Modi also criticised rival parties in the state, dubbing the upcoming assembly polls as a contest between three families — Congress, the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) — and the youth of the region. He promised more employment opportunities to the youth and pledged to make the UT a paradise for tourists. The Indian PM declared his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will grant full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir if the party comes to power. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls 2024: Dozens of separatists, family members in election fray Security had been beefed up ahead of PM Modi’s visit to the area. Jammu and Kashmir will witness assembly polls on September 18, 25 and October 1 and the results will be out on October 8. The three-phase polls are the first after the abrogation of the special status of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. Congress launches attack India’s main opposition Congress party was quick to fact check PM Modi’s big claim on terrorism, saying there had been “25 terror attacks in the Union territory” in the 98 days of his third term. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said, “Huge claims were made that after August 2019, peace will be established in Jammu and Kashmir. I will not talk about the time since 2014 or 2019, but it has been 98 days since Modi was sworn in. In the last 98 days, there have been 25 terror strikes in J-K in which 21 security personnel were martyred, while 28 others were injured." Also read: Two Indian Army soldiers killed in Jammu and Kashmir`s Kishtwar encounter, operation continues Shrinate also took the opportunity to pay tribute to two Indian soldiers who lost their lives while battling terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar on Friday and questioned PM Modi’s silence over the matter. "PM tweets on small issues, discovers new countries on the world map to travel to and wishes happy birthday to people, but since 2019, Modi has stopped sending tribute or sympathy messages," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi claims terror ‘breathing last’ in Jammu-Kashmir, Congress issues fact-check

It is after four long decades that Kashmir Valley will be witnessing International Cricket Matches. Indian and International cricketing stars will be playing cricket in the Valley after almost half a century during the final leg of the Legends League Cricket. The series would kick start on the 20th of September in Jodhpur Rajasthan while Seven Matches including the final will be played in Srinagar.

International Cricket returns to Kashmir

India's meteorological department has predicted that, India may experience extreme winter this year with some states hitting 3 degrees celsius and the expected extreme winter conditions are likely to affect various parts of India differently.

Winter Season in India: Some states can go as low as 3°c

One terrorist was killed&nbsp;on Saturday (Aug 24)&nbsp;in an ongoing encounter in the Watergam area of North Kashmir's Baramulla district. According to a top police official, the terrorists launched an attack on a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir police and the Indian Army in the Watergam area of Rafiabad. However, the alert security&nbsp;forces successfully responded to the attack.

The Jammu and Kashmir police in a post on X said&nbsp;that there was an exchange of fire in the Watergam area of Sopore. The alert security forces retaliated and the area was cordoned off. The forces are carrying out searches and further details shall follow.

The Indian Army posted on X: ''OP WATERGAM, SOPORE #Baramulla Consequent to specific intelligence of the area, a joint team of #IndianArmy and @JmuKmrPolice was fired upon by terrorists in Watergam area of #Sopore. Vigilant troops swiftly responded, and a firefight ensued. Operation is in progress.''

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Police sources also said that during the initial gunfight&nbsp;between the terrorists and security forces, one Indian Army soldier was&nbsp;injured and&nbsp;hospitalised.&nbsp;

Security forces said that there are around two to three&nbsp;more terrorists holed up in the area and a massive search operation is going on at the operation site. Security forces have called for more deployment to the said area.&nbsp;

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Security&nbsp;has been put on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir after the assembly&nbsp;elections were announced. The elections will start on September 18 and will be completed in three phases. The results of the elections will be announced on October 4. Over 50 extra companies of forces have been brought in specially for the elections in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

One terrorist was killed on Saturday (Aug 24) in an ongoing encounter in the Watergam area of North Kashmir's Baramulla district. According to a top police official, the terrorists launched an attack on a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir police and the Indian Army in the Watergam area of Rafiabad.

One terrorist was killed on Saturday (Aug 24) in an ongoing encounter in the Watergam area of North Kashmir's Baramulla district. According to a top police official, the terrorists launched an attack on a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir police and the Indian Army in the Watergam area of Rafiabad. However, the alert security forces successfully responded to the attack. The Jammu and Kashmir police in a post on X said that there was an exchange of fire in the Watergam area of Sopore. The alert security forces retaliated and the area was cordoned off. The forces are carrying out searches and further details shall follow. The Indian Army posted on X: ''OP WATERGAM, SOPORE #Baramulla Consequent to specific intelligence of the area, a joint team of #IndianArmy and @JmuKmrPolice was fired upon by terrorists in Watergam area of #Sopore. Vigilant troops swiftly responded, and a firefight ensued. Operation is in progress.'' Also read: Mehbooba Mufti reveals PDP manifesto: Trade across LOC, return of Kashmiri Pandits, and other key points Police sources also said that during the initial gunfight between the terrorists and security forces, one Indian Army soldier was injured and hospitalised. Security forces said that there are around two to three more terrorists holed up in the area and a massive search operation is going on at the operation site. Security forces have called for more deployment to the said area. Also read: NC announces pre-poll alliance with Congress for upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir Security has been put on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir after the assembly elections were announced. The elections will start on September 18 and will be completed in three phases. The results of the elections will be announced on October 4. Over 50 extra companies of forces have been brought in specially for the elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu-Kashmir: Security forces gun down one terrorist in Baramulla operation

This week on Kashmir Connect, we take you inside a beautiful Kashmiri wedding, feast on Wazwan, meet a pigeon fancier, and discover how lilies are damaging the Dal.

Kashmir Connect: A Kashmiri Wedding & feast on Wazwan

Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians. Out of the three wounded soldiers, two succumbed to the injuries and one is being treated at the army base hospital in Srinagar.

The Indian Army said that terrorists indiscriminately opened fire resulting in the injury of two civilians who were later taken to a medical facility for treatment. “Two civilians have also been reported injured due to indiscriminate, desperate and reckless firing by terrorists in the ongoing operation; they have been provided immediate medical aid and evacuated further,” said the Indian Army.

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After the terrorists opened fire on security forces, a massive cordon and search operation was launched by the joint teams of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the jungles of the Kokernag area.&nbsp;

More security personnel were deployed to cover all the entry and exit points of the area where the terrorists were held up.

Watch:&nbsp;J&amp;K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir; J&amp;K L-G inaugurates film conclave

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The Indian Army had earlier said: “Based on specific intelligence input, a Joint Operation was launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice &amp; @crpf_srinagar today in general area Kokernag, Anantnag. Contact was established and firefight ensued. Two personnel have been injured and evacuated from the area.”

The operation is underway as of Saturday evening. The lights and additional deployment at the site suggest that security forces might carry out the operation&nbsp;during the night hours too.

Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians.

Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians. Out of the three wounded soldiers, two succumbed to the injuries and one is being treated at the army base hospital in Srinagar. The Indian Army said that terrorists indiscriminately opened fire resulting in the injury of two civilians who were later taken to a medical facility for treatment. “Two civilians have also been reported injured due to indiscriminate, desperate and reckless firing by terrorists in the ongoing operation; they have been provided immediate medical aid and evacuated further,” said the Indian Army. Also read: India's poll body to visit Jammu and Kashmir, parties hopeful of election dates announcement After the terrorists opened fire on security forces, a massive cordon and search operation was launched by the joint teams of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the jungles of the Kokernag area. More security personnel were deployed to cover all the entry and exit points of the area where the terrorists were held up. Watch: J&K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir; J&K L-G inaugurates film conclave × The Indian Army had earlier said: “Based on specific intelligence input, a Joint Operation was launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & @crpf_srinagar today in general area Kokernag, Anantnag. Contact was established and firefight ensued. Two personnel have been injured and evacuated from the area.” The operation is underway as of Saturday evening. The lights and additional deployment at the site suggest that security forces might carry out the operation during the night hours too.

Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight

The Election Commission of India (ECI) held meetings with the national and regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday (Aug 8). The Chief Election Commission (CEC) along with members are visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for a two-day visit. They also met up with the top security officials from Jammu and Kashmir police and paramilitary forces.

Political Parties like BJP, Congress,&nbsp;National Conference&nbsp;(NC),&nbsp;Peoples Democratic Party&nbsp;(PDP)&nbsp;and others met up with the CEC and were hopeful that the elections would be held in Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible.

Sources in the government say that the election commission will most likely announce the election dates for the Union Territory as the Supreme Court of India had given a deadline of conducting the polls&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir before September 30.

Watch:&nbsp;J&amp;K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir as J&amp;K's L-G inaugurates film conclave

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Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of ten years as the last assembly election held was in 2014. The delegation from the NC also met the CEC and was hopeful that the poll officials&nbsp;would announce the election dates soon.

"We have told them that they have visited many times till now but now they need to come up with a decision. We also told them that it's been ten years since assembly elections have taken place here. The LG cannot run the government ever. The government should be run democratically and people in the UT are facing a lot of problems due to that, and they need to hold elections soon. We should get a level playing field and there should be no bias. The officers should not be posted for their benefit. We are very hopeful that all the formalities have been completed and I don't see any hindrances. We are hopeful that the elections will be held before September 30,"&nbsp;said Nasir Aslam Wani, NC leader.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwihq9jjm-WHAxU7avUHHecEOGUQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revocation-five-years-on-bjp-celebrates-ex-cms-mufti-abdullah-say-not-allowed-to-protest-747293" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revocation-five-years-on-bjp-celebrates-ex-cms-mufti-abdullah-say-not-allowed-to-protest-747293&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihq9jjm-WHAxU7avUHHecEOGUQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Article 370 revocation, five years on: BJP celebrates, Ex-CMs Mufti, Abdullah say not allowed to protest</a>

Meanwhile, PDP leaders say that it's time for ECI to announce dates as they have had multiple visits to Jammu and Kashmir previously.

"We had a very healthy discussion with CEC about holding elections in the UT. We told them that around one crore tourists have visited the JK, the parliamentary elections were held and the Amarnath Yatra has taken place peacefully. Now what is stopping them from holding elections? In parliament, the PM and HM both said the situation has improved, then what is stopping them from holding elections? The people have no one to go to as it's run by an administration who have no idea about the people's issues. This is very unfair that we have not been given our basic rights. We just hope this is our last meeting before the elections now," said Khursheed Alam, senior&nbsp;leader of PDP.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;leaders in Kashmir Valley have also supported the idea of holding elections in the UT as soon as possible. They will be meeting the ECI and demanding the same.

"BJP today apprised the CEC of the preparedness for the assembly elections. We also gave them the suggestion to hold elections as soon as possible. The central government should hold the elections before September 30. We are very hopeful, and Jammu Kashmir will see a democratic government very soon. I am hopeful that the notification will be released soon,"&nbsp;said R S Pathania, BJP spokesperson.

The Indian National Congress Party leaders also met with the CEC and pushed for the assembly elections in the UT.

"We have given a memorandum that we are ready to fight elections. We hope that elections will be held before the deadline. I hope elections will be held but that will be decided by the CEC. We have asked them that it should not be deferred any more,"&nbsp;said Ravinder Sharma, senior vice president of&nbsp;Congress.

On August 9, the ECI team will meet with top officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, before heading to Jammu for further discussions with enforcement agencies and holding a press conference.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) held meetings with the national and regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday (Aug 8). The Chief Election Commission (CEC) along with members are visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for a two-day visit.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) held meetings with the national and regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday (Aug 8). The Chief Election Commission (CEC) along with members are visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for a two-day visit. They also met up with the top security officials from Jammu and Kashmir police and paramilitary forces. Political Parties like BJP, Congress, National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and others met up with the CEC and were hopeful that the elections would be held in Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible. Sources in the government say that the election commission will most likely announce the election dates for the Union Territory as the Supreme Court of India had given a deadline of conducting the polls in Jammu and Kashmir before September 30. Watch: J&K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir as J&K's L-G inaugurates film conclave × Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of ten years as the last assembly election held was in 2014. The delegation from the NC also met the CEC and was hopeful that the poll officials would announce the election dates soon. "We have told them that they have visited many times till now but now they need to come up with a decision. We also told them that it's been ten years since assembly elections have taken place here. The LG cannot run the government ever. The government should be run democratically and people in the UT are facing a lot of problems due to that, and they need to hold elections soon. We should get a level playing field and there should be no bias. The officers should not be posted for their benefit. We are very hopeful that all the formalities have been completed and I don't see any hindrances. We are hopeful that the elections will be held before September 30," said Nasir Aslam Wani, NC leader. Also read: Article 370 revocation, five years on: BJP celebrates, Ex-CMs Mufti, Abdullah say not allowed to protest Meanwhile, PDP leaders say that it's time for ECI to announce dates as they have had multiple visits to Jammu and Kashmir previously. "We had a very healthy discussion with CEC about holding elections in the UT. We told them that around one crore tourists have visited the JK, the parliamentary elections were held and the Amarnath Yatra has taken place peacefully. Now what is stopping them from holding elections? In parliament, the PM and HM both said the situation has improved, then what is stopping them from holding elections? The people have no one to go to as it's run by an administration who have no idea about the people's issues. This is very unfair that we have not been given our basic rights. We just hope this is our last meeting before the elections now," said Khursheed Alam, senior leader of PDP. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Kashmir Valley have also supported the idea of holding elections in the UT as soon as possible. They will be meeting the ECI and demanding the same. "BJP today apprised the CEC of the preparedness for the assembly elections. We also gave them the suggestion to hold elections as soon as possible. The central government should hold the elections before September 30. We are very hopeful, and Jammu Kashmir will see a democratic government very soon. I am hopeful that the notification will be released soon," said R S Pathania, BJP spokesperson. The Indian National Congress Party leaders also met with the CEC and pushed for the assembly elections in the UT. "We have given a memorandum that we are ready to fight elections. We hope that elections will be held before the deadline. I hope elections will be held but that will be decided by the CEC. We have asked them that it should not be deferred any more," said Ravinder Sharma, senior vice president of Congress. On August 9, the ECI team will meet with top officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, before heading to Jammu for further discussions with enforcement agencies and holding a press conference.

India's top poll officials meet J&K political parties, likely to announce assembly election dates soon

Kashmir Valley for decades, the preffered haunt of the Hindi filmindustry before the insurgence is preparing for a grand revival of film tourism over the last few years.

J&K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir; J&K L-G inaugurates film conclave

A fire that erupted from an abandoned Pandit house, engulfing five ancient homes of the Kashmiri Pandit community in the Lone Mohalla of Mattan in South Kashmir's Anantnag around 1 am on Sunday midnight.

India: Kashmiri Pandits houses set on fire, investigations on for the cause of fire

With the rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir recently, the former Director General of the Police of Jammu and Kashmir, S P Vaid has made a revelation and claimed that over 600 SSG (Special Service Group) commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked while some of them have already infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir and are carrying out terror attacks.

There have been dozens of terror attacks in the Union Territory in the last three months. The recent gunfight took place near the Line of Control in North Kashmir's Kupwara district, where one Pakistani intruder was killed and a huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from his possession.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that he was a commando of SSG of the Pakistan Army, which is considered to be the most highly-trained armed force in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-terrorists-are-shifting-gears-with-focus-on-jammu-as-hotbed-of-terror-742092">India: How terrorists are shifting gears with focus on Jammu as hotbed of terror</a>

Officials in the security forces had said that in Kupwara the whole operation was carried out by the Border Action Team (BAT) and was done at the behest of the Pakistan Army.&nbsp;

''Adil Rehmani, GoC, SSG Commandos Pakistan Army has been organising and directing the infiltrators in Jammu and Kashmir. Over 600 SSG Commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked and a large number of them have already sneaked into Jammu and Kashmir,&nbsp;and some are still trying to infiltrate. It is an act of war, and the motive behind this is to engage 15 and 16 corps of the Indian Army fully in the coveted war. There is one Lieutenant Colonel Shahid Saleem who has already reportedly infiltrated in Jammu and Kashmir. He has activated all the sleeper cells. Two more battalions are ready to sneak into this part of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a covert war and India's response should be swift,'' said S P Vaid, Former DGP, Jammu Kashmir Police.

Not only the former DGP SP Vaid,&nbsp;but activist Amjad Ayub Mirza, had also made the same claims on social media.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Kashmir: Unprecedented heatwave | Water crisis deepens

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Mirza is an author, broadcaster, and human rights activist based in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

He posted on X saying, ''Allegedly SSG General Officer Commanding (GOC) Maj General Adil Rehmani is conducting the attacks in Jammu region. 2. ⁠one whole SSG battalion is said to have infiltrated that means at least 600 commandos are in Kupwara region and elsewhere. 3. ⁠local jihadi sleeper cells are active and assisting in SSG movement inside Indian territory. 4. ⁠Lt Col. Shahid Saleem Janjua is right now in the Indian territory of Jammu commanding the attacks. 5. ⁠their focus is to engage Indian army’s 15 Corps. 6. ⁠two more battalions of SSG are in Muzaffarabad ready to enter Indian territory via Jammu and Kashmir.''

Jammu and Kashmir Police had already acknowledged that there are around 70-80 foreign terrorists present in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

If the recent reports are to be believed, the numbers are much higher. And not only in Jammu regions Poonch, Kishtwar, Kathua, and Doda districts but also in the Northern Part of Kashmir Valley such as Kupwara, Handwara, and Bandipora. This means that security forces have a huge task at hand in the coming months and they will have to be alert.&nbsp;

These terrorists carrying out attacks in Jammu and Kashmir are highly trained and laced with the latest weaponry, like M4 and Chinese A56 Assault Rifles. It indicates&nbsp;that the weapons that were left by the US army in Afghanistan have now reached Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

One of the most important aspects is that these terrorists are not using traceable technology such as phones, etc. These terrorists are using ultraset and radio frequency messenger that cannot be intercepted for communication and have no sim card. These terrorists also very rarely visit villages and use Over Ground Workers.&nbsp;

With the rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir recently, the former Director General of the Police of Jammu and Kashmir, S P Vaid has made a revelation and claimed that over 600 SSG (Special Service Group) commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked while some of them have already infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir and are carrying out terror attacks.

With the rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir recently, the former Director General of the Police of Jammu and Kashmir, S P Vaid has made a revelation and claimed that over 600 SSG (Special Service Group) commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked while some of them have already infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir and are carrying out terror attacks. There have been dozens of terror attacks in the Union Territory in the last three months. The recent gunfight took place near the Line of Control in North Kashmir's Kupwara district, where one Pakistani intruder was killed and a huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from his possession. Reports suggest that he was a commando of SSG of the Pakistan Army, which is considered to be the most highly-trained armed force in Pakistan. Also read | India: How terrorists are shifting gears with focus on Jammu as hotbed of terror Officials in the security forces had said that in Kupwara the whole operation was carried out by the Border Action Team (BAT) and was done at the behest of the Pakistan Army. ''Adil Rehmani, GoC, SSG Commandos Pakistan Army has been organising and directing the infiltrators in Jammu and Kashmir. Over 600 SSG Commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked and a large number of them have already sneaked into Jammu and Kashmir, and some are still trying to infiltrate. It is an act of war, and the motive behind this is to engage 15 and 16 corps of the Indian Army fully in the coveted war. There is one Lieutenant Colonel Shahid Saleem who has already reportedly infiltrated in Jammu and Kashmir. He has activated all the sleeper cells. Two more battalions are ready to sneak into this part of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a covert war and India's response should be swift,'' said S P Vaid, Former DGP, Jammu Kashmir Police. Not only the former DGP SP Vaid, but activist Amjad Ayub Mirza, had also made the same claims on social media. Also watch | Kashmir: Unprecedented heatwave | Water crisis deepens × Mirza is an author, broadcaster, and human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He posted on X saying, ''Allegedly SSG General Officer Commanding (GOC) Maj General Adil Rehmani is conducting the attacks in Jammu region. 2. ⁠one whole SSG battalion is said to have infiltrated that means at least 600 commandos are in Kupwara region and elsewhere. 3. ⁠local jihadi sleeper cells are active and assisting in SSG movement inside Indian territory. 4. ⁠Lt Col. Shahid Saleem Janjua is right now in the Indian territory of Jammu commanding the attacks. 5. ⁠their focus is to engage Indian army’s 15 Corps. 6. ⁠two more battalions of SSG are in Muzaffarabad ready to enter Indian territory via Jammu and Kashmir.'' Jammu and Kashmir Police had already acknowledged that there are around 70-80 foreign terrorists present in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. If the recent reports are to be believed, the numbers are much higher. And not only in Jammu regions Poonch, Kishtwar, Kathua, and Doda districts but also in the Northern Part of Kashmir Valley such as Kupwara, Handwara, and Bandipora. This means that security forces have a huge task at hand in the coming months and they will have to be alert. These terrorists carrying out attacks in Jammu and Kashmir are highly trained and laced with the latest weaponry, like M4 and Chinese A56 Assault Rifles. It indicates that the weapons that were left by the US army in Afghanistan have now reached Jammu and Kashmir. One of the most important aspects is that these terrorists are not using traceable technology such as phones, etc. These terrorists are using ultraset and radio frequency messenger that cannot be intercepted for communication and have no sim card. These terrorists also very rarely visit villages and use Over Ground Workers.

Pakistan Army’s SSG commandos behind Jammu, Kupwara terror attacks: Former top police official

In a revised travel advisory, The U.S. Department of State has warned Americans against travelling to Jammu & Kashmir, parts of central and eastern India and to the north-eastern states. The advisory is not only blind to the present-day reality of Jammu and Kashmir, but also reeks of hypocrisy- given how the U.S. is failing to keep its citizens safe at home.

US travel advisory on India warns Americans against visiting Kashmir, Manipur, other Indian regions

Members of India's Shia Muslim community in the Kashmir valley carried out the traditional Muharram procession in Saga city. This is the second year in a row the administration has allowed procession after it was stopped for around 34 years due to rising incidents of terrorism.

Srinagar: Muharram procession held from Gurubazar to Dalgate

Four soldiers of the Indian Army have been killed, six have been injured after terrorists ambushed an Army convoy in the Kathua district of Jammu & Kashmir. The Army vehicles were on a routine patrol of the area.

Pattern of Pakistan's malafied foreign policy: Pushing terror in guise of talks

Heatwave conditions persisted in Kashmir on Thursday with Srinagar recording a maximum temperature of 35.7 degrees Celsius, six notches above normal and the highest in July in 25 years, officials said. The city had recorded a high of 37 degrees Celsius in July 1999.

India: No respite from heat even in Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a 'purple revolution' with lavender farming picking up in every district of the Union Territory. Lavender has great potential as a therapeutic and aromatic herb and its farming can contribute greatly to the country's economy. There is also a high demand for the Kashmir Valley's lavender in India and abroad.

The government of Jammu and Kashmir is taking many initiatives to help the farmers across the Union Territory to take up and increase lavender farming. The Department of Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir is helping farmers increase their market and cultivation on a commercial level. Lavender is also considered to be a low-maintenance crop and blossoms for 15 years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiH8MTy7IWHAxUoLEQIHZrCA38QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-doda-735413" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-doda-735413&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiH8MTy7IWHAxUoLEQIHZrCA38QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Three terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda</a>

''Kashmir soil is very fertile and in 2006, the people did not know much about Lavender farming but with time the youngsters are now fully aware of the Purple Revolution which started in Bhaderwah and spread all across the Union Territory. We have a research hub here where we help the farmers with the process. The way the green revolution happened; in a similar way, we are seeing the purple revolution. People have a plot of land, and it suits the barren land. We have given free lavender saplings to people in all the districts in south Kashmir. It has a lot of profit,''&nbsp;said Kamal Bhat, Research Assistant, at Lavender Farm Sirhama.

The lavender oil sells for over Rs 12,000 ($143.8)&nbsp;per litre. It is used in medicines, incense sticks, soaps, and air fresheners. According to experts, Kashmir Valley has perfect conditions for lavender cultivation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiH8MTy7IWHAxUoLEQIHZrCA38QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reasi-terror-attack-nia-raids-multiple-locations-in-jammu-kashmirs-rajouri-736505" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reasi-terror-attack-nia-raids-multiple-locations-in-jammu-kashmirs-rajouri-736505&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiH8MTy7IWHAxUoLEQIHZrCA38QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Reasi terror attack: NIA raids multiple locations in Jammu &amp; Kashmir’s Rajouri</a>

''In one Kanal there is a production of over one quintal of lavender. The government rate for one litre of oil is 12 thousand Indian rupees. It is used in cosmetics, oils, soaps and also has medicinal value. There is a tea that's made from this as well. The farmers of Kashmir are showing a lot of interest, and the government is also helping by giving free saplings to them. We are fully training the people,'' Bhat said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir is encouraging the unemployed youth of the valley to start lavender farming.

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a 'purple revolution' with lavender farming picking up in every district of the Union Territory. Lavender has great potential as a therapeutic and aromatic herb and its farming can contribute greatly to the country's economy.

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a 'purple revolution' with lavender farming picking up in every district of the Union Territory. Lavender has great potential as a therapeutic and aromatic herb and its farming can contribute greatly to the country's economy. There is also a high demand for the Kashmir Valley's lavender in India and abroad. The government of Jammu and Kashmir is taking many initiatives to help the farmers across the Union Territory to take up and increase lavender farming. The Department of Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir is helping farmers increase their market and cultivation on a commercial level. Lavender is also considered to be a low-maintenance crop and blossoms for 15 years. Also read: Three terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda ''Kashmir soil is very fertile and in 2006, the people did not know much about Lavender farming but with time the youngsters are now fully aware of the Purple Revolution which started in Bhaderwah and spread all across the Union Territory. We have a research hub here where we help the farmers with the process. The way the green revolution happened; in a similar way, we are seeing the purple revolution. People have a plot of land, and it suits the barren land. We have given free lavender saplings to people in all the districts in south Kashmir. It has a lot of profit,'' said Kamal Bhat, Research Assistant, at Lavender Farm Sirhama. The lavender oil sells for over Rs 12,000 ($143.8) per litre. It is used in medicines, incense sticks, soaps, and air fresheners. According to experts, Kashmir Valley has perfect conditions for lavender cultivation. Also read: Reasi terror attack: NIA raids multiple locations in Jammu & Kashmir’s Rajouri ''In one Kanal there is a production of over one quintal of lavender. The government rate for one litre of oil is 12 thousand Indian rupees. It is used in cosmetics, oils, soaps and also has medicinal value. There is a tea that's made from this as well. The farmers of Kashmir are showing a lot of interest, and the government is also helping by giving free saplings to them. We are fully training the people,'' Bhat said. The Government of Jammu and Kashmir is encouraging the unemployed youth of the valley to start lavender farming.

Jammu and Kashmir witnesses a ‘purple revolution’ as lavender farming picks up

India has slammed Pakistan for its “baseless and deceitful narratives” as Islamabad’s envoy here made references to Kashmir in the UN General Assembly.

“Earlier in the day, one delegation misused this forum to spread baseless and deceitful narratives, which is not a surprise,” Minister in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN Pratik Mathur said on Tuesday.

“I will not dignify these remarks with any response, just to save the valuable time of this august body,” he said.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-issues-advisory-for-citizens-in-kenya-to-exercise-utmost-caution-amid-protests-735136">&nbsp;India issues advisory for citizens in Kenya to exercise 'utmost caution' amid protests</a>

Mathur was delivering India’s statement at the UN General Assembly debate on the Annual Report of the UN Security Council.

His retort came after Pakistan’s UN envoy Munir Akram made references to Kashmir in his remarks from the General Assembly podium during the debate.

Pakistan regularly raises the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at various UN platforms, irrespective of the subject matter being discussed or the theme of the forum and fails to get any support or traction.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-formally-arrests-kejriwal-delhi-cm-to-file-bail-plea-in-supreme-court-735220">CBI 'formally' arrests Kejriwal, Delhi CM to file bail plea in Supreme Court</a>

India has previously rejected Pakistan’s attempts to raise the Kashmir issue at international forums, asserting that the “Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India.”

India has slammed Pakistan for its “baseless and deceitful narratives” as Islamabad’s envoy here made references to Kashmir in the UN General Assembly. “Earlier in the day, one delegation misused this forum to spread baseless and deceitful narratives, which is not a surprise,” Minister in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN Pratik Mathur said on Tuesday.

India has slammed Pakistan for its “baseless and deceitful narratives” as Islamabad’s envoy here made references to Kashmir in the UN General Assembly. “Earlier in the day, one delegation misused this forum to spread baseless and deceitful narratives, which is not a surprise,” Minister in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN Pratik Mathur said on Tuesday. “I will not dignify these remarks with any response, just to save the valuable time of this august body,” he said. Also Read | India issues advisory for citizens in Kenya to exercise 'utmost caution' amid protests Mathur was delivering India’s statement at the UN General Assembly debate on the Annual Report of the UN Security Council. His retort came after Pakistan’s UN envoy Munir Akram made references to Kashmir in his remarks from the General Assembly podium during the debate. Pakistan regularly raises the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at various UN platforms, irrespective of the subject matter being discussed or the theme of the forum and fails to get any support or traction. Also Read | CBI 'formally' arrests Kejriwal, Delhi CM to file bail plea in Supreme Court India has previously rejected Pakistan’s attempts to raise the Kashmir issue at international forums, asserting that the “Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India.”

India slams Pakistan for ‘baseless and deceitful narratives’ on Kashmir at UN General Assembly

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, encounters with Pakistan-backed terrorists have led to the seizure of highly encrypted Chinese telecom-hear ultra set - an equipment originally meant for use by the Pakistani Army.

J&K: Seizure of mobile handsets used by terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir raises alarm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting on Sunday. He discussed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir with officials. Watch this video for all details.

Amit Shah calls for Kashmir-like 'Zero Terror Plan' in Jammu in wake of attacks

Just after the new govt takes shape, J&K is struck by a string of deadly terror attacks. There have been 4 attacks in 4 days. The first one, on June 9, the very day Narendra Modi and his council of ministers took oath, posing a major challenge to the new govt, prompting the centre to hold a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in New Delhi.

J&K struck by terror: 4 attacks in 4 days

Police in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir have detained 50 people in connection with a terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district.

The arrests came after police launched a comprehensive search operation, involving even far-flung Arnas and Mahore areas of the district. These areas were breeding grounds for terrorism in the late 1990s and the early 2000s.

Terrorists on Sunday (June 9) opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra from the Shiv Khori temple. Following the attack, the bus rolled down a gorge, resulting in the death of nine people.

Police said that 50 people were arrested following an intensive investigation.

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"Significant leads have been uncovered, aiding in the identification and capture of those who may be potentially involved in orchestrating the attack. To ensure a comprehensive probe, search operations have been expanded to cover the far-flung areas of Arnas and Mahore," said a police spokesperson.

He added that the operations are still going on and those hiding in the remote regions will be apprehended soon.

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"The law enforcement agencies are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors in the area," the spokesperson added.

Terrorists have targeted four places in the UT's Jammu area over the last four days, resulting in the death of at least 10 people, including one soldier.

The attacks have been witnessed in Reasi, Kathua and Doda districts.

In retaliation, the Indian security forces have launched massive search operations in several forest belts of the UT.

Earlier, police in Jammu and Kashmir issued sketches of four terrorists suspected of involvement in two attacks in Doda district.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir have detained 50 people in connection with a terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district.

Police in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir have detained 50 people in connection with a terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district. The arrests came after police launched a comprehensive search operation, involving even far-flung Arnas and Mahore areas of the district. These areas were breeding grounds for terrorism in the late 1990s and the early 2000s. Terrorists on Sunday (June 9) opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra from the Shiv Khori temple. Following the attack, the bus rolled down a gorge, resulting in the death of nine people. Police said that 50 people were arrested following an intensive investigation. Also read: India: One terrorist shot dead by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir`s Kathua "Significant leads have been uncovered, aiding in the identification and capture of those who may be potentially involved in orchestrating the attack. To ensure a comprehensive probe, search operations have been expanded to cover the far-flung areas of Arnas and Mahore," said a police spokesperson. He added that the operations are still going on and those hiding in the remote regions will be apprehended soon. Also read: PM Modi takes charge, reviews J&K situation after four terror attacks in four days "The law enforcement agencies are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors in the area," the spokesperson added. Terrorists have targeted four places in the UT's Jammu area over the last four days, resulting in the death of at least 10 people, including one soldier. The attacks have been witnessed in Reasi, Kathua and Doda districts. In retaliation, the Indian security forces have launched massive search operations in several forest belts of the UT. Earlier, police in Jammu and Kashmir issued sketches of four terrorists suspected of involvement in two attacks in Doda district. (With inputs from agencies)

Reasi terror attack: Police arrest 50 suspects, operations still underway in remote regions

There have been two more terror attacks in Jammu as Indian forces continue to search for the Kashmir killers. #Gravitas brings you the details

Gravitas: Terror attacks in Jammu ahead of Amarnath Yatra

Terrorists have opened fire at a camp in the Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir. Gravitas brings you the developing story.

Gravitas: Breaking | Another terror attack in Jammu, one jawan injured

A terrorist has been killed after a massive search operation was launched in a forest area in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua District. The security forces launched an operation after some gunmen opened fire on a house in the Hira Nagar area of Kathua District. Watch in for more details!

Back-to-back terror incidents in J&K: Encounter breaks out in Doda between terrorists & Indian Army

Following the commencement of a large search and rescue operation in a wooded region in the Kathua District of Jammu & Kashmir, two terrorists have been killed. In the Hira Nagar neighborhood of Kathua District, some gunmen opened fire on a residence, prompting the security forces to initiate an operation. Keep an eye out for additional information!

J&K: After Reasi terror attack, J&K's Doda, Kathua districts targeted | What is happening?

The tourist inflows have picked up in the Kashmir Valley after the region respired from the heat wave over the last few days. The majority of the hotels and houseboats are fully booked for the season.

India: Tourists flocking to Kashmir Valley after heatwave peaks

As Kashmir Valley finally got some respite from the heat wave in the last few days, the tourist inflow has peaked as well. Majority of hotels and houseboats are completely booked as more&nbsp;tourists are coming to the valley.

The tourist&nbsp;inflow has surged to the point where houseboats on Kashmir's Dal Lake must be booked months in advance. Staying in these iconic houseboats is a must for any visitor to Kashmir.

Currently, the majority of houseboats are fully booked due to the recent increase in tourist numbers.

''We had pre-booked our stay in the houseboat a few weeks ago. We did not want any hassle and that's why we had pre-booked everything. We are also finding Shikara's as we have houseboat bookings. There is no tension regarding that. It's the peak time so we booked early, and everyone should pre book so that they don't face any problems or Issues'' said Prarik Aggarwal, a tourist.

While India is reeling under heat wave, Kashmir Valley has seen a respite in the last few days and that has brought a lot of cheer among the tourists. And the summer influx of tourists to the valley has increased as most of the hotels, houseboats, huts at every tourist place in Kashmir are booked.

Kashmir Valley saw over a million tourists in the first four months of 2024. The winter tourism broke all the previous records. &nbsp;According to the data of Srinagar International Airport, on an average more than 18,000 passengers visit the airport and majority of them are tourists. As against an average of 70 flights in February, currently 94 flights are operating at the airport.

''We are finding Shikara's without any issues. There is a waiting, but we are getting to go for a ride. Kashmir is a place which everyone should explore. There is a difference of 15 degrees between Gujrat and Kashmir. We are loving it here. We have also pre booked the houseboat and we are not having any difficulty finding shikaras,'' said Vandana, a tourist.

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir and tourism stakeholders are hopeful that all the previous records of tourist arrivals will be broken this year.

As Kashmir Valley finally got some respite from the heat wave in the last few days, the tourist inflow has peaked as well. Majority of hotels and houseboats are completely booked as more tourists are coming to the valley.

As Kashmir Valley finally got some respite from the heat wave in the last few days, the tourist inflow has peaked as well. Majority of hotels and houseboats are completely booked as more tourists are coming to the valley. The tourist inflow has surged to the point where houseboats on Kashmir's Dal Lake must be booked months in advance. Staying in these iconic houseboats is a must for any visitor to Kashmir. Currently, the majority of houseboats are fully booked due to the recent increase in tourist numbers. ''We had pre-booked our stay in the houseboat a few weeks ago. We did not want any hassle and that's why we had pre-booked everything. We are also finding Shikara's as we have houseboat bookings. There is no tension regarding that. It's the peak time so we booked early, and everyone should pre book so that they don't face any problems or Issues'' said Prarik Aggarwal, a tourist. While India is reeling under heat wave, Kashmir Valley has seen a respite in the last few days and that has brought a lot of cheer among the tourists. And the summer influx of tourists to the valley has increased as most of the hotels, houseboats, huts at every tourist place in Kashmir are booked. Kashmir Valley saw over a million tourists in the first four months of 2024. The winter tourism broke all the previous records. According to the data of Srinagar International Airport, on an average more than 18,000 passengers visit the airport and majority of them are tourists. As against an average of 70 flights in February, currently 94 flights are operating at the airport. ''We are finding Shikara's without any issues. There is a waiting, but we are getting to go for a ride. Kashmir is a place which everyone should explore. There is a difference of 15 degrees between Gujrat and Kashmir. We are loving it here. We have also pre booked the houseboat and we are not having any difficulty finding shikaras,'' said Vandana, a tourist. The Government of Jammu and Kashmir and tourism stakeholders are hopeful that all the previous records of tourist arrivals will be broken this year.

Kashmir tourism soars as valley escapes heat wave; houseboats and shikaras fully booked

India's Jammu and Kashmir where security forces in Pulwama district in Southern Kashmir are currently embattled with suspected LeT terrorists, according to police sources.

J&K: Security forces target terrorists in Nihama | LeT Commander believed to be surrounded

Kashmir Valley also known as the Paradise on Earth is witnessing an unprecedented heatwave. The valley has broken a record of 40 years with temperatures running 6° above normal. Watch in for more details!

Heatwave in India's Kashmir, valley's high temperatures disappoint tourists

Kashmir Valley, the paradise on Earth, is witnessing an unprecedented heatwave. Valley has broken a record of 40 years this May with temperatures rising six degrees above&nbsp; the normal. The tourists who are visiting the valley to get respite from the heat wave in the rest of India are disappointed with the high temperatures and scorching heat.&nbsp;

Tourists coming&nbsp;to North Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand are highly disappointed with heat waves not sparing these higher reaches as well. Kashmir, this year is no different than the rest of India. People who were expecting to witness icy winds and escape the scorching heat of the rest of the country are shocked to witness heat waves in the Valley as well. The MeT Department has predicted that the heat wave will continue for the next two weeks.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-remal-brings-indias-northeastern-states-heavy-rainfall-havoc-726242">Cyclone Remal to bring heavy rainfall to northeast India</a>

“I did not expect this hot weather at all. I am travelling with thermals, jackets and sweaters and when we landed here we realised that we won't be needing those clothes at all, It's actually as hot as our cities. It's a beautiful city but we are facing so much heat and that's creating a problem,” said Dr Nirav, a tourist.&nbsp;

Another tourist said that they had not heard Kashmir is a hot place. “The weather is hot because I don't live in India. It's quite hot for me, the heatwave but the place is pretty. I have not heard Kashmir being hot, I have always been told it's the Mini Switzerland but still the weather is quite hot and a drastic change. I was aware the weather is going to be very hot as compared to where I am coming from,” said Afneen, a tourist.

The MeT has said that there is no hope of any respite from the heat in the coming days. The weather is not only high in Srinagar city but also at tourist places on higher reaches like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Kokernag and Verinag. And the tourists who are visiting the Kashmir Valley are saying that they do not feel like visiting a hill station. Many tourists had come with winter clothes and jackets thinking they would require these clothes.&nbsp;

“It's very hot here and making it very difficult for us to travel around in the city. What to do? We have made plans already and we like the gardens and people are nice but due to the hot weather, it's becoming difficult. We are not enjoying it as much as we wanted to. We did not expect it to be so hot at all,'' said Archana Rastogi, a tourist.&nbsp;

Some tourists were disappointed and said they had read that the weather would be better next week but their holidays would be over by then. “Srinagar is pretty hot today, they are saying the weather will change in the next two days but by then we would have left. I have come here from Delhi, the last time I was here was in 1984. It was cold in Gulmarg, but the city side is very hot and it's enjoyable,” said Yogesh, a tourist.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajkot-gaming-zone-fire-case-these-incidents-occur-owner-laughingly-tells-court-726252">Rajkot gaming zone fire case: These incidents occur, owner tells court with a laugh</a>

The Valley has been witnessing erratic weather conditions. With heavy snowfall and severe cold wave conditions seen in the middle of April and May, the valley is now facing a heat wave.&nbsp;

“It's definitely a little cooler than my city but I did not expect it to be so hot. I expected it to be cooler. My woollens have only been used for my children and apart from that we have not used any,” said Gautam, a tourist.&nbsp;

Under the Heat Wave Action Plan, the Jammu and Kashmir government has designated departments and nodal officers to help or assist affected individuals. The administration has urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their health during this period of hot weather. 
&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley, the paradise on Earth, is witnessing an unprecedented heatwave. Valley has broken a record of 40 years this May with temperatures rising six degrees above the normal.

Kashmir Valley, the paradise on Earth, is witnessing an unprecedented heatwave. Valley has broken a record of 40 years this May with temperatures rising six degrees above the normal. The tourists who are visiting the valley to get respite from the heat wave in the rest of India are disappointed with the high temperatures and scorching heat. Tourists coming to North Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand are highly disappointed with heat waves not sparing these higher reaches as well. Kashmir, this year is no different than the rest of India. People who were expecting to witness icy winds and escape the scorching heat of the rest of the country are shocked to witness heat waves in the Valley as well. The MeT Department has predicted that the heat wave will continue for the next two weeks. Also Read | Cyclone Remal to bring heavy rainfall to northeast India “I did not expect this hot weather at all. I am travelling with thermals, jackets and sweaters and when we landed here we realised that we won't be needing those clothes at all, It's actually as hot as our cities. It's a beautiful city but we are facing so much heat and that's creating a problem,” said Dr Nirav, a tourist. Another tourist said that they had not heard Kashmir is a hot place. “The weather is hot because I don't live in India. It's quite hot for me, the heatwave but the place is pretty. I have not heard Kashmir being hot, I have always been told it's the Mini Switzerland but still the weather is quite hot and a drastic change. I was aware the weather is going to be very hot as compared to where I am coming from,” said Afneen, a tourist. The MeT has said that there is no hope of any respite from the heat in the coming days. The weather is not only high in Srinagar city but also at tourist places on higher reaches like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Kokernag and Verinag. And the tourists who are visiting the Kashmir Valley are saying that they do not feel like visiting a hill station. Many tourists had come with winter clothes and jackets thinking they would require these clothes. “It's very hot here and making it very difficult for us to travel around in the city. What to do? We have made plans already and we like the gardens and people are nice but due to the hot weather, it's becoming difficult. We are not enjoying it as much as we wanted to. We did not expect it to be so hot at all,'' said Archana Rastogi, a tourist. Some tourists were disappointed and said they had read that the weather would be better next week but their holidays would be over by then. “Srinagar is pretty hot today, they are saying the weather will change in the next two days but by then we would have left. I have come here from Delhi, the last time I was here was in 1984. It was cold in Gulmarg, but the city side is very hot and it's enjoyable,” said Yogesh, a tourist. Also Read | Rajkot gaming zone fire case: These incidents occur, owner tells court with a laugh The Valley has been witnessing erratic weather conditions. With heavy snowfall and severe cold wave conditions seen in the middle of April and May, the valley is now facing a heat wave. “It's definitely a little cooler than my city but I did not expect it to be so hot. I expected it to be cooler. My woollens have only been used for my children and apart from that we have not used any,” said Gautam, a tourist. Under the Heat Wave Action Plan, the Jammu and Kashmir government has designated departments and nodal officers to help or assist affected individuals. The administration has urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their health during this period of hot weather.

India: Kashmir Valley witnesses unprecedented heatwave, leaves tourists disappointed

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