In Srinagar, the Jammu and Kashmir government opened an international-caliber football stadium as a present to the valley. The stadium was built in accordance with FIFA standards.

India: Jammu and Kashmir opens new stadiums to promote sports activities

In order to revive and make the younger generation aware of the art, craft and heritage of Kashmir, a century-old property in Srinagar's Aali Kadal area has been converted into an art centre and a museum.

Bait-Ul-Meeras: Century old-house, now an art museum

After thirty-two long years, cinema is returning to Kashmir valley. The first multiplex is opening in Srinagar City to provide entertainment to the youth of Kashmir. Cinema halls in the valley were closed in the early 90s after terrorism found its roots in the region.

India: Cinema returns to Kashmir after 32 years of intermission

An under-construction tunnel collapsed in the Khooni Nallah-Ramban area on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in which 10 people are trapped while three have been rescued in an injured state. The Adit tunnel of T3 caved-in during the intervening night, after which the rescue operation started to save the people trapped inside the debris.

The terrible tragedy occurred in India's northern Union Territory of J&amp;K's Ramban district.

A massive rescue operation is being carried out, but reports say that the face of the tunnel is fully covered with debris and continuous landslides are creating challenges for the rescue team to reach the trapped person.

The missing workers have been identified as Jadav Roy, 23, Gautam Roy, 22, Sudhir Roy, 31, Dipak Roy, 33, Parimal Roy, 38, Shiva Chowhan, 26, Nawaraj Chowdhury, 26, Kushi Ram, 25, Mujaffar, 38, and Israt, 30.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir | A part of an under-construction tunnel collapsed at Khooni Nala, Jammu–Srinagar National Highway in the Makerkote area of Ramban. 6 to 7 feared trapped; one person rescued. Rescue operation is underway: Ramban Deputy Commissioner <a href="https://t.co/tUFYerrzbb">pic.twitter.com/tUFYerrzbb</a>
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"A rescue operation was started at 12.00 midnight, as shooting stones remained active. Rescue operations are still going on and are likely to take more time as rock breakers are being used to create space to reach the trapped people. One of the three injured has been shifted to GMC Jammu, where he reached at 4.30 am. Deputy Commissioner Ramban, along with DIG, SSP Ramban, and Proj Dir NHAI and Construction Co. reps, is at the spot, "said a Disaster Management Department official.

The Union Minister, Jitendra Singh, said that a rescue operation is underway, and the situation is continuously being monitored. He tweeted and said, "Unfortunate incident of the collapse of an under-construction tunnel on the National Highway stretch between Ramban and Ramsu in district Ramban, Jammu &amp; Kashmir." I’m in constant touch with DC Sh. Mussrat Islam. Nearly 10 labour workers were trapped under the debris. Another 2 were rescued and hospitalised with injuries. A rescue operation is going on in full swing. Civil and police authorities are monitoring the situation. "

The labourers trapped inside the tunnel were working for Sarla Company, who has the contract for the building of the tunnel.

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An under-construction tunnel collapsed in the Khooni Nallah-Ramban area on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in which 10 people are trapped while three have been rescued in an injured state.

An under-construction tunnel collapsed in the Khooni Nallah-Ramban area on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in which 10 people are trapped while three have been rescued in an injured state. The Adit tunnel of T3 caved-in during the intervening night, after which the rescue operation started to save the people trapped inside the debris. The terrible tragedy occurred in India's northern Union Territory of J&K's Ramban district. A massive rescue operation is being carried out, but reports say that the face of the tunnel is fully covered with debris and continuous landslides are creating challenges for the rescue team to reach the trapped person. The missing workers have been identified as Jadav Roy, 23, Gautam Roy, 22, Sudhir Roy, 31, Dipak Roy, 33, Parimal Roy, 38, Shiva Chowhan, 26, Nawaraj Chowdhury, 26, Kushi Ram, 25, Mujaffar, 38, and Israt, 30. Jammu & Kashmir | A part of an under-construction tunnel collapsed at Khooni Nala, Jammu–Srinagar National Highway in the Makerkote area of Ramban. 6 to 7 feared trapped; one person rescued. Rescue operation is underway: Ramban Deputy Commissioner pic.twitter.com/tUFYerrzbb — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2022 × "A rescue operation was started at 12.00 midnight, as shooting stones remained active. Rescue operations are still going on and are likely to take more time as rock breakers are being used to create space to reach the trapped people. One of the three injured has been shifted to GMC Jammu, where he reached at 4.30 am. Deputy Commissioner Ramban, along with DIG, SSP Ramban, and Proj Dir NHAI and Construction Co. reps, is at the spot, "said a Disaster Management Department official. The Union Minister, Jitendra Singh, said that a rescue operation is underway, and the situation is continuously being monitored. He tweeted and said, "Unfortunate incident of the collapse of an under-construction tunnel on the National Highway stretch between Ramban and Ramsu in district Ramban, Jammu & Kashmir." I’m in constant touch with DC Sh. Mussrat Islam. Nearly 10 labour workers were trapped under the debris. Another 2 were rescued and hospitalised with injuries. A rescue operation is going on in full swing. Civil and police authorities are monitoring the situation. " The labourers trapped inside the tunnel were working for Sarla Company, who has the contract for the building of the tunnel. 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.

Jammu and Kashmir tunnel collapse: 10 labourers trapped, rescue operation on

The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley. The Indian army has been continuously taking initiatives to engage youth in the valley in different sports and cultural activities.

Students from various schools participated in the tournament and thanked the Indian army for providing a platform to showcase their talent. The Indian army says that this tournament is the start of many such events. They will also be starting a female cricket tournament soon.&nbsp;

''We have 16 teams in total and have been organised by Chinar Corps Indian Army. All the matches, in the beginning, would be played in army headquarters, and later we will be playing in TRC grounds. We are continuously being approached by youngsters and schools to organise such cricket tournaments. A lot of schools and colleges are approaching us to organise these tournaments. IPL has many Kashmiris but they lack the platform, and we are trying our best to give them that platform. We will plan a football tournament and a special tournament with girls too. There is no positive engagement here with the youth, so many are involved in drug addiction, and we want them to stay away from drugs and play sports. We will also be organising a lot of cultural programmes too. A girl cricket tournament is in pipeline,'' said Abhishek Sahu, Major, Indian Army.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/nia-chief-visits-jammu-encounter-site-security-forces-on-high-alert-ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-473156" hreflang="en">NIA chief visits Jammu encounter site; high alert ahead of PM Modi's visit</a>

The local cricket coaches in the Valley have appreciated the initiative taken by the Indian army. The local coaches say that it will put the Kashmiri youngsters in the right direction.&nbsp;

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''It's a great initiative by the Indian army to provide a platform for the youth to play sports. There are 16 teams and sports are as important as studies, there are so many youths involved in drugs these days and to keep them away, Sports plays a very important role. We should promote sports. '' said Zahid Hussain, Cricket Coach.&nbsp;

There are few such opportunities for the Kashmiri Youth. Although Kashmir has a lot of talent but lacks the platforms where the youth can showcase it.&nbsp;

''Sports are extremely important for the youngsters and we stay fit if we play sports. This is a great platform, and we can learn a lot and achieve great heights. We have come with a purpose to win this tournament,'' said Reyan A, Student.

These Initiatives by the Indian army are to provide a platform for the youngsters so that they can represent the state and country at National and International levels.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley.

The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley. The Indian army has been continuously taking initiatives to engage youth in the valley in different sports and cultural activities. Students from various schools participated in the tournament and thanked the Indian army for providing a platform to showcase their talent. The Indian army says that this tournament is the start of many such events. They will also be starting a female cricket tournament soon. ''We have 16 teams in total and have been organised by Chinar Corps Indian Army. All the matches, in the beginning, would be played in army headquarters, and later we will be playing in TRC grounds. We are continuously being approached by youngsters and schools to organise such cricket tournaments. A lot of schools and colleges are approaching us to organise these tournaments. IPL has many Kashmiris but they lack the platform, and we are trying our best to give them that platform. We will plan a football tournament and a special tournament with girls too. There is no positive engagement here with the youth, so many are involved in drug addiction, and we want them to stay away from drugs and play sports. We will also be organising a lot of cultural programmes too. A girl cricket tournament is in pipeline,'' said Abhishek Sahu, Major, Indian Army. Also read | NIA chief visits Jammu encounter site; high alert ahead of PM Modi's visit The local cricket coaches in the Valley have appreciated the initiative taken by the Indian army. The local coaches say that it will put the Kashmiri youngsters in the right direction. ''It's a great initiative by the Indian army to provide a platform for the youth to play sports. There are 16 teams and sports are as important as studies, there are so many youths involved in drugs these days and to keep them away, Sports plays a very important role. We should promote sports. '' said Zahid Hussain, Cricket Coach. There are few such opportunities for the Kashmiri Youth. Although Kashmir has a lot of talent but lacks the platforms where the youth can showcase it. ''Sports are extremely important for the youngsters and we stay fit if we play sports. This is a great platform, and we can learn a lot and achieve great heights. We have come with a purpose to win this tournament,'' said Reyan A, Student. These Initiatives by the Indian army are to provide a platform for the youngsters so that they can represent the state and country at National and International levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army organises cricket tournament in Srinagar to increase youth engagement in activities

The Holy month of Ramazan is being observed by Muslims across the world. And in India's Kashmir Valley, mosques have been opened after two years of being closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A huge number of people are gathering for every prayer of the day at Srinagar's Hazratbal Shrine. People say they are happy to be praying in the mosques again.

In the month of Ramazan, most of the Muslims pray in the mosques five times a day. And there are special prayers also offered during the month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

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Millions of Muslims can be seen praying in every mosque of the valley including the Jamia Masjid and Hazratbal. And this year, the gatherings have become bigger as the mosques have been allowed to open after two years.

According to Ghulam Ahmad, a local man, ''I have no words to express my feelings, seeing so much rush at Hazratbal Shrine makes me extremely Joyous. We came to pray, and thousands of people have come to pray here. Our hearts were yearning for coming here to pray but thank God we managed to do so. There is no limit to my happiness.''

The locals said that they can't believe they are praying in the mosques again. ''We are grateful to God for again calling us to the mosques so that we can pray here. There is a history and connection with this Hazratbal Shrine. We are eager to come back and pray here again. We prayed for brotherhood and peace in the Valley.'' said a local man named Naseer Ahmad. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-in-indias-jammu-and-kashmir-encounter-470989" hreflang="en">Four terrorists killed in India’s Jammu and Kashmir encounter &nbsp;</a>

In Kashmir, there is an age-old tradition of waking people for the pre-dawn meals called Suhoor. A person called 'Sahar Khan' who gives a wakeup call by using drums and chants and moves around colonies every night all through the month of Ramadan.

In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically. The dates are sold in Kashmir for crores of rupees during the Ramadan. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramazan.&nbsp;

The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber, and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-many-shades-of-ramadan-observances-and-festivities-217313">Also see |&nbsp;The many shades of Ramadan observances and festivities</a>

'' I am thankful to God that covid has left us and this year people have returned to the markets. We have various types of dates to sell, and people's response is great. This year we are doing great business, but the only issue is things are a little expensive.'' said Noor Ud Din Wani, the whole seller of dates.&nbsp;

Several other foods are also made especially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custards, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley.

''This year is so much better than the last two years. We can finally see people coming out and shopping. There is a lot of difference this year. Our work is going well now.'' said local shopkeeper, Shakeel Ahmad.&nbsp;

In all the mosques, prayers for peace, covid free world, and prosperity are being made.&nbsp;

The Holy month of Ramazan is being observed by Muslims across the world. And in India's Kashmir Valley, mosques have been opened after two years of being closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Holy month of Ramazan is being observed by Muslims across the world. And in India's Kashmir Valley, mosques have been opened after two years of being closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. A huge number of people are gathering for every prayer of the day at Srinagar's Hazratbal Shrine. People say they are happy to be praying in the mosques again. In the month of Ramazan, most of the Muslims pray in the mosques five times a day. And there are special prayers also offered during the month of Ramadan. Millions of Muslims can be seen praying in every mosque of the valley including the Jamia Masjid and Hazratbal. And this year, the gatherings have become bigger as the mosques have been allowed to open after two years. According to Ghulam Ahmad, a local man, ''I have no words to express my feelings, seeing so much rush at Hazratbal Shrine makes me extremely Joyous. We came to pray, and thousands of people have come to pray here. Our hearts were yearning for coming here to pray but thank God we managed to do so. There is no limit to my happiness.'' The locals said that they can't believe they are praying in the mosques again. ''We are grateful to God for again calling us to the mosques so that we can pray here. There is a history and connection with this Hazratbal Shrine. We are eager to come back and pray here again. We prayed for brotherhood and peace in the Valley.'' said a local man named Naseer Ahmad. Also read | Four terrorists killed in India’s Jammu and Kashmir encounter In Kashmir, there is an age-old tradition of waking people for the pre-dawn meals called Suhoor. A person called 'Sahar Khan' who gives a wakeup call by using drums and chants and moves around colonies every night all through the month of Ramadan. In the holy month, there are various foods whose sales go up drastically. The dates are sold in Kashmir for crores of rupees during the Ramadan. There are various types of dates which are sold here, imported from various countries for the Ramazan. The Ajwa, Mabroom, Kalmi, Sudayi, Sukhri, Amber, and Merjol are the types that are sold in the market. Also see | The many shades of Ramadan observances and festivities '' I am thankful to God that covid has left us and this year people have returned to the markets. We have various types of dates to sell, and people's response is great. This year we are doing great business, but the only issue is things are a little expensive.'' said Noor Ud Din Wani, the whole seller of dates. Several other foods are also made especially for Iftar, a time to break the fast. Phirni, Halwa, fruits custards, and Sewaiyan are sold in every area of the valley. ''This year is so much better than the last two years. We can finally see people coming out and shopping. There is a lot of difference this year. Our work is going well now.'' said local shopkeeper, Shakeel Ahmad. In all the mosques, prayers for peace, covid free world, and prosperity are being made.

Kashmir: Markets abuzz, mosques open during Ramazan after two years due to COVID-19

Indian security forces have beefed up security in the Kashmir valley after terrorists were killed in an encounter. At least 40 terrorists have been killed in J&K this year.

India: Forces beef up security in the Kashmir valley after terrorists killed in encounter

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises. The step has been taken to keep a check on terror, criminal, anti-social and anti-national activities.&nbsp;

As per the issued order, the prevailing persistent threat, relating to recently increased incidents of selective targeting of the innocent citizens in Jammu and Kashmir by the anti-national and subversive elements, requires several measures including the use of appropriate technologies to safeguard life and property.&nbsp;

"The benefits of advancements in technology are being reaped by every sector be it education, investment, management, health, or public service and many states/UTs of the Union of India now employ video surveillance as a tool to monitor public movements and to prevent crime and terrorism," read a part of the order copy.&nbsp;

The administration believes installing CCTV cameras across the city would help keep a check on terror or criminal activity. "The role of CCTV cameras in improving safety and security cannot be undermined because they not only help in deterrence, surveillance and detection of crime but are very important tools for the law enforcement agencies in the prosecution and bringing the culprit/offender to the book," the order further read.&nbsp;

The DC Srinagar in the order has stated that he exercises the powers conferred upon him by virtue of section 144 Cr. P C, 1973. And has asked for strict compliance by the owners of such establishments and market associations of such markets whether registered or not, who shall within a period of two weeks (14 days) from the date of publication of this order shall take the following steps.&nbsp;

"Ensure that the CCTV system installed is in always working condition, 24 x 7 even when the establishment is closed. The CCTV system should be of good quality with minimum resolution of 1920 X 1080, Minimum Illumination of 0.01 Lux, Focal length 3.6 mm, built in IR and retention period of 30 days, with feature to playback as well as download the recording," the order read.&nbsp;

It states that they provide the CCTV footage to the police and other law enforcement agencies whenever demanded.&nbsp;

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises.

After the recent attacks across India's Kashmir Valley, the district administration in Srinagar has issued an order for the business establishments to install CCTV Cameras outside their shops and premises. The step has been taken to keep a check on terror, criminal, anti-social and anti-national activities. As per the issued order, the prevailing persistent threat, relating to recently increased incidents of selective targeting of the innocent citizens in Jammu and Kashmir by the anti-national and subversive elements, requires several measures including the use of appropriate technologies to safeguard life and property. "The benefits of advancements in technology are being reaped by every sector be it education, investment, management, health, or public service and many states/UTs of the Union of India now employ video surveillance as a tool to monitor public movements and to prevent crime and terrorism," read a part of the order copy. The administration believes installing CCTV cameras across the city would help keep a check on terror or criminal activity. "The role of CCTV cameras in improving safety and security cannot be undermined because they not only help in deterrence, surveillance and detection of crime but are very important tools for the law enforcement agencies in the prosecution and bringing the culprit/offender to the book," the order further read. The DC Srinagar in the order has stated that he exercises the powers conferred upon him by virtue of section 144 Cr. P C, 1973. And has asked for strict compliance by the owners of such establishments and market associations of such markets whether registered or not, who shall within a period of two weeks (14 days) from the date of publication of this order shall take the following steps. "Ensure that the CCTV system installed is in always working condition, 24 x 7 even when the establishment is closed. The CCTV system should be of good quality with minimum resolution of 1920 X 1080, Minimum Illumination of 0.01 Lux, Focal length 3.6 mm, built in IR and retention period of 30 days, with feature to playback as well as download the recording," the order read. It states that they provide the CCTV footage to the police and other law enforcement agencies whenever demanded.

India: Srinagar administration orders CCTVs installation outside shops, markets amid rise in terror attacks

Thousands of tourists thronged Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar on the very first day of its opening. The tourism industry is hoping that there will be a record number of tourists visiting the valley to enjoy the beautiful visuals of the Tulip Garden.

Tourists flock to Asia's largest Tulip garden in Srinagar, India

Thousands of tourists thronged Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar on the very first day of its opening. The tourism industry is hoping that there will be a record number of tourists visiting the valley to enjoy the beautiful visuals of the Tulip Garden.&nbsp;

Tulip garden has more than 1.5 million tulips and 68 different varieties this year. Spread over an area of 30 hectares of land at the foothills of Zabarwan hills and overlooking the famous Dal Lake, the visuals in the garden are just breathtakingly beautiful.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/asias-largest-tulip-garden-opens-for-visitors-in-jammu-kashmirs-srinagar-464842">Asia's largest Tulip garden opens for visitors in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Srinagar</a>

''We have 68 varieties of Tulips this year and 1.5 million tulips, we have daffodils, hyacinths, and spring-flowering trees. We have 70 gardeners in the garden who work all through the year to make this beautiful garden. It's a lot of hard work to make beds, bulb sowing, to protect them from any disease. It's a year-long process. The initial response is great, and I am sure it's going to be a great season. We are extremely happy to host people from across. We have been approached by a lot of filmmakers to shoot their films in these gardens. We welcome them to come here and shoot the films '' said Dr Inam Ahmad, InCharge Tulip Garden.&nbsp;

The Tulip Garden in Srinagar was opened in 2007 to promote tourism in the valley. It's been the main attraction for tourists visiting the valley in the Spring season. Millions of tourists have visited the garden in the last few years. And this year the garden has been thrown open earlier than previous years to 'prepone' the spring tourist season in the Valley. The government is also planning to hold a tulip festival in the garden.&nbsp;

''From a tourism point of view Tulip Garden is an iconic place and everybody who wants to visit the tulip garden is most welcome. We have preponed our tourism season by almost a month. I am sure this is great news for a lot of people who have been impatiently waiting to come and see the tulips. In the coming days, we will be having a grand tulip festival, we will invite people from across the country to come and visit the Tulip Garden'' said GN Itoo, Director Tourism.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-delegation-visits-kashmir-valley-to-explore-business-opportunities-464673" hreflang="en">UAE delegation visits Kashmir valley to explore business opportunities</a>

The real makers of this garden are those gardeners who work day and night for months to prepare the garden for visitors. The preparations go on for months before the garden opens to the public. Around 100 gardeners work all through the year in this garden to make it so beautiful and mesmerising.&nbsp;

''I have been working on this garden since 2002, This year we have around 1.5 million tulips and it's a lot of hard work. Our reward is when people from across the world come to see and enjoy this tulip garden. We start the whole process in November and for three months we have to keep working on it. There are around 100 gardeners in this tulip garden. Tourists coming to see this garden gives us so much happiness,'' said Mohammad Ayub, Gardener.&nbsp;

This year the garden has been made much more attractive with many other additions. More trees and shrubs have been added, along with an open-air cafeteria. The tourism department is also planning to sell various Kashmiri breads and tea in the garden. To enjoy these beautiful visuals and authentic Kashmiri food experiences, thousands of tourists have already flocked to the garden.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UAE explores investment opportunities, Jammu and Kashmir eyes $9.1 billion foreign investment

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''I have been coming to Kashmir for the last three years, but this is my first visit to the tulip garden. It's a dream come true experience. I have always seen these visuals in Yash Chopra movies. I am a big fan of Rekha and Amitabh and I wanted to relive the Silsila movie experience here. No place is as beautiful as Kashmir. all four seasons are beautiful, everyone should come here,'' said Jagneet Grewal, Tourist.&nbsp;

Last year, despite the Covid restrictions, more than 2.25 lakh tourists visited the Tulip Garden. This year, the government hopes that all previous records of tourists visiting will be broken.&nbsp;

''We are lucky to come to Kashmir. There was a fear in mind but once we landed here, we were so surprised. This is such an amazing place. The people are nice. We have seen a tulip garden in Amsterdam but to see the same thing in our own country makes us so proud. We want to tell everyone across the country to come here. This is India's paradise, and everyone should visit,'' said Praveen Murarka, a tourist.&nbsp;

Tulip Garden is one of the world's most famous gardens. Last year, pictures of the tulip garden were shared on Twitter by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the post, a huge number of tourists visited the garden.

Thousands of tourists thronged Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar on the very first day of its opening. The tourism industry is hoping that there will be a record number of tourists visiting the valley to enjoy the beautiful visuals of the Tulip Garden. Tulip garden has more than 1.5 million tulips and 68 different varieties this year. Spread over an area of 30 hectares of land at the foothills of Zabarwan hills and overlooking the famous Dal Lake, the visuals in the garden are just breathtakingly beautiful. Also read | Asia's largest Tulip garden opens for visitors in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar ''We have 68 varieties of Tulips this year and 1.5 million tulips, we have daffodils, hyacinths, and spring-flowering trees. We have 70 gardeners in the garden who work all through the year to make this beautiful garden. It's a lot of hard work to make beds, bulb sowing, to protect them from any disease. It's a year-long process. The initial response is great, and I am sure it's going to be a great season. We are extremely happy to host people from across. We have been approached by a lot of filmmakers to shoot their films in these gardens. We welcome them to come here and shoot the films '' said Dr Inam Ahmad, InCharge Tulip Garden. The Tulip Garden in Srinagar was opened in 2007 to promote tourism in the valley. It's been the main attraction for tourists visiting the valley in the Spring season. Millions of tourists have visited the garden in the last few years. And this year the garden has been thrown open earlier than previous years to 'prepone' the spring tourist season in the Valley. The government is also planning to hold a tulip festival in the garden. ''From a tourism point of view Tulip Garden is an iconic place and everybody who wants to visit the tulip garden is most welcome. We have preponed our tourism season by almost a month. I am sure this is great news for a lot of people who have been impatiently waiting to come and see the tulips. In the coming days, we will be having a grand tulip festival, we will invite people from across the country to come and visit the Tulip Garden'' said GN Itoo, Director Tourism. Also read | UAE delegation visits Kashmir valley to explore business opportunities The real makers of this garden are those gardeners who work day and night for months to prepare the garden for visitors. The preparations go on for months before the garden opens to the public. Around 100 gardeners work all through the year in this garden to make it so beautiful and mesmerising. ''I have been working on this garden since 2002, This year we have around 1.5 million tulips and it's a lot of hard work. Our reward is when people from across the world come to see and enjoy this tulip garden. We start the whole process in November and for three months we have to keep working on it. There are around 100 gardeners in this tulip garden. Tourists coming to see this garden gives us so much happiness,'' said Mohammad Ayub, Gardener. This year the garden has been made much more attractive with many other additions. More trees and shrubs have been added, along with an open-air cafeteria. The tourism department is also planning to sell various Kashmiri breads and tea in the garden. To enjoy these beautiful visuals and authentic Kashmiri food experiences, thousands of tourists have already flocked to the garden. Watch | UAE explores investment opportunities, Jammu and Kashmir eyes $9.1 billion foreign investment ''I have been coming to Kashmir for the last three years, but this is my first visit to the tulip garden. It's a dream come true experience. I have always seen these visuals in Yash Chopra movies. I am a big fan of Rekha and Amitabh and I wanted to relive the Silsila movie experience here. No place is as beautiful as Kashmir. all four seasons are beautiful, everyone should come here,'' said Jagneet Grewal, Tourist. Last year, despite the Covid restrictions, more than 2.25 lakh tourists visited the Tulip Garden. This year, the government hopes that all previous records of tourists visiting will be broken. ''We are lucky to come to Kashmir. There was a fear in mind but once we landed here, we were so surprised. This is such an amazing place. The people are nice. We have seen a tulip garden in Amsterdam but to see the same thing in our own country makes us so proud. We want to tell everyone across the country to come here. This is India's paradise, and everyone should visit,'' said Praveen Murarka, a tourist. Tulip Garden is one of the world's most famous gardens. Last year, pictures of the tulip garden were shared on Twitter by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the post, a huge number of tourists visited the garden.

Thousands throng Srinagar's tulip garden on its opening day. Government hopes it will revive the tourism

Asia's largest Tulip garden opens for visitors in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in Srinagar’s Nowgam area. All the terrorists belonged to the LeT(TRF) outfit.&nbsp;

Security forces killed one terrorist early morning in the gunfight and later killed two more terrorists taking the number to three.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wearing-hijab-is-not-an-essential-religious-practice-says-indian-court-as-it-upholds-hijab-ban-462378" hreflang="en">Wearing hijab is not an essential religious practice, says Indian court as it upholds hijab ban</a>

“02 more terrorists killed (Total 03). Incriminating materials including arms &amp; ammunition recovered. Search going on. Further details shall follow, “ said Jammu and Kashmir Police IGP Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police also claimed that the same terrorists were involved in the killing of Sarpanch Sameer Ahmed Bhat of Khonmoh.

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“Terrorists of proscribed terror outfit LeT/TRF involved in the recent killing of Khanmoh’s Sarpanch Sameer Bhat, trapped in Nowgam encounter,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police IGP Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

Security forces had received inputs about the presence of militants in the area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. Security forces said that the hiding terrorists fired upon the security forces resulting in a gun battle. &nbsp;

Searches are still underway in the area.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in Srinagar’s Nowgam area. All the terrorists belonged to the LeT(TRF) outfit. Security forces killed one terrorist early morning in the gunfight and later killed two more terrorists taking the number to three.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in Srinagar’s Nowgam area. All the terrorists belonged to the LeT(TRF) outfit. Security forces killed one terrorist early morning in the gunfight and later killed two more terrorists taking the number to three. Also read | Wearing hijab is not an essential religious practice, says Indian court as it upholds hijab ban “02 more terrorists killed (Total 03). Incriminating materials including arms & ammunition recovered. Search going on. Further details shall follow, “ said Jammu and Kashmir Police IGP Vijay Kumar. Jammu and Kashmir Police also claimed that the same terrorists were involved in the killing of Sarpanch Sameer Ahmed Bhat of Khonmoh. Also read | Mother Teresa's former secretary to lead saint's Indian order “Terrorists of proscribed terror outfit LeT/TRF involved in the recent killing of Khanmoh’s Sarpanch Sameer Bhat, trapped in Nowgam encounter,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police IGP Vijay Kumar. Security forces had received inputs about the presence of militants in the area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. Security forces said that the hiding terrorists fired upon the security forces resulting in a gun battle. Searches are still underway in the area.

Three terrorists killed in Srinagar encounter

The flower bloom on Almond trees indicates the arrival of Spring in the Kashmir Valley. The famous Almond Garden, ''Badamwari' of Srinagar city has thousands of Almond trees, which are in full bloom and all set to welcome tourists as well as locals.&nbsp;

The tourism department of Kashmir plans to celebrate the full spring season across the various gardens of Srinagar city. The festival will start from Badamwari as almond flowers are the first to bloom. The garden located at the foothills of Kohi-Maraan mountain on 300 kanals of land has more than 1000 almond trees.&nbsp;

''We are having spring season and let me share the good news that we will be celebrating springtime as the full season this year.&nbsp; It would normally be confined to celebrating tulip festival only. But tulips come in the last week of March or the first week of April so this time we have decided to celebrate other flowers also which come early in the spring season. We start with badamwari, when the almond bloom is there, then we have wild tulips which bloom much earlier than the tulips we have in Srinagar. Similarly,&nbsp;we have some other flowers which come in March. We have decided we will be having a full-time season. We are expecting a good number of tourists this season as well. '' said Director Tourism, GN Itoo.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-help-the-local-talent-jammu-and-kashmir-police-organises-musical-competition-461715" hreflang="en">To help the local talent, Jammu and Kashmir police organises musical competition</a>

The locals, as well as the tourists, are already thronging these gardens. Social networking sites are filled with pictures of the flowers of Almond. And now the government expects that all previous records of tourist arrivals would be broken this spring. The tourists already in the valley are enjoying the view of the bloom.&nbsp;

''It's quite beautiful, when we think about Kashmir, we mostly&nbsp;think of snow, but this side of Kashmir is so mesmerizing and beautiful too. The spring is pretty, and people should experience&nbsp;this as well. This is our first time in this garden and it's so amazing. We googled to see what an almond bloom looks like before coming here. '' said Anupama, Tourist.&nbsp;

The government is planning to organise many events in the Gardens of Kashmir Valley to promote spring tourism as well as these gardens. The people who are visiting are mesmerised by the views of these blooms.&nbsp;

''We are finding it very beautiful,&nbsp;and we had no plans of coming to this almond garden, so someone in the flight suggested we come here. We found&nbsp;it so beautiful&nbsp;and it's worth coming to this garden. And coming to Kashmir is just fantastic&nbsp;and everything is proving worth it to come to Kashmir. I would ask people to visit as it's the real heaven. '' said Rashmi, a Tourist.&nbsp;

The spring season had seen very less tourist arrivals in the Kashmir Valley in the last two years due to the pandemic. The tourist stakeholders now hope that this year, they would be able to compensate for the losses.&nbsp;

The flower bloom on Almond trees indicates the arrival of Spring in the Kashmir Valley. The famous Almond Garden, ''Badamwari' of Srinagar city has thousands of Almond trees, which are in full bloom and all set to welcome tourists as well as locals.

The flower bloom on Almond trees indicates the arrival of Spring in the Kashmir Valley. The famous Almond Garden, ''Badamwari' of Srinagar city has thousands of Almond trees, which are in full bloom and all set to welcome tourists as well as locals. The tourism department of Kashmir plans to celebrate the full spring season across the various gardens of Srinagar city. The festival will start from Badamwari as almond flowers are the first to bloom. The garden located at the foothills of Kohi-Maraan mountain on 300 kanals of land has more than 1000 almond trees. ''We are having spring season and let me share the good news that we will be celebrating springtime as the full season this year. It would normally be confined to celebrating tulip festival only. But tulips come in the last week of March or the first week of April so this time we have decided to celebrate other flowers also which come early in the spring season. We start with badamwari, when the almond bloom is there, then we have wild tulips which bloom much earlier than the tulips we have in Srinagar. Similarly, we have some other flowers which come in March. We have decided we will be having a full-time season. We are expecting a good number of tourists this season as well. '' said Director Tourism, GN Itoo. Also read | To help the local talent, Jammu and Kashmir police organises musical competition The locals, as well as the tourists, are already thronging these gardens. Social networking sites are filled with pictures of the flowers of Almond. And now the government expects that all previous records of tourist arrivals would be broken this spring. The tourists already in the valley are enjoying the view of the bloom. ''It's quite beautiful, when we think about Kashmir, we mostly think of snow, but this side of Kashmir is so mesmerizing and beautiful too. The spring is pretty, and people should experience this as well. This is our first time in this garden and it's so amazing. We googled to see what an almond bloom looks like before coming here. '' said Anupama, Tourist. The government is planning to organise many events in the Gardens of Kashmir Valley to promote spring tourism as well as these gardens. The people who are visiting are mesmerised by the views of these blooms. ''We are finding it very beautiful, and we had no plans of coming to this almond garden, so someone in the flight suggested we come here. We found it so beautiful and it's worth coming to this garden. And coming to Kashmir is just fantastic and everything is proving worth it to come to Kashmir. I would ask people to visit as it's the real heaven. '' said Rashmi, a Tourist. The spring season had seen very less tourist arrivals in the Kashmir Valley in the last two years due to the pandemic. The tourist stakeholders now hope that this year, they would be able to compensate for the losses.

Almond flowers in full bloom in Kashmir

Indian Army in the latest crackdown on Terrorism, has conducted multiple cordons and search operations and killed 4 terrorists in the Indian region of Kashmir.

Indian forces crackdown on Terrorism: 4 terrorists killed in India's Kashmir

To revive the centuries-old handmade arts and crafts of India's Kashmir Valley, the department of handicrafts and handloom has started craft safaris in Srinagar city.&nbsp;

The government expects that these safaris will help grow the business of the craftsmen as well as the buyers can directly buy from the artisans with a guarantee of authenticity.&nbsp;

The step has been taken after UNESCO listed Srinagar among the creative cities of the world. The craft safari included visiting artisans of crafts like paper mache, woodcarving, pottery, silverware, copperware, namdhaKari, pashmina and silk carpets. &nbsp;

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"After listing Srinagar as the creative city, we want to highlight certain products and it's very important to highlight certain crafts. The idea behind this is that in an area of 2 kms you can visit the workplaces of these artisans; you are able to see 5-6 crafts," said Mehmood Shah, who is the Director Handloom and Handicrafts in Kashmir.&nbsp;

"We have got a very good response and the aim is to connect the artisan with the customer and show them the hard work that is put by these artisans into these products. I am happy we are getting great responses for these safaris. We have designed these tours and they are in the public domain to reach out to those people who are interested in the crafts," Shah added.&nbsp;

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The artisans of the Kashmir valley appreciate the steps taken by the government. A lot of machine-made craft was being sold as handmade, and steps like these will make sure to put an end to it.&nbsp;

The hard work that an artisan puts in making these artefacts can be witnessed during these safaris. And now the buyers from across the country or world can visit and buy authentic original products from the artisans itself.&nbsp;

''Artisans always want to be appreciated and we are thankful that this step has been taken by the handicraft department and Director Mehmood Shah. Meeting the artisans, seeing their hard work and making buyers buy the original products is a unique experience," said Sajjad Ali, who is an artisan.&nbsp;

"The middlemen sometimes really created confusion regarding handmade and machine-made products. It's a great confidence building step. The products are appreciated all over the world and this will boost it further," &nbsp;Ali added. &nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ba002f2-3223-40c1-be9b-8b9a90dcf58c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%282%29_0.png" />

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39f830c7-9136-42ac-8ca4-f3d4cbb134a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%283%29_0.png" />

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9f38b0c-4435-411e-9cdb-025241c4d8b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%284%29_0.png" />

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76abe583-446f-4ba3-b673-1422c111e9fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%285%29.png" />

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e002cd6c-4109-4465-b23d-d86a180bbc52" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%286%29.png" />

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd62660b-dfa1-467e-84ff-069722474741" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%287%29.png" />

The government has also collaborated with social media influencers from the Kashmir Valley. The influencers are posting stories about the artisans and their products and it has helped to grow the business further.&nbsp;

"For me it takes the artisans to buyers straight away and we have seen in the past also, it's the 4-5th edition and after these the artisans are getting direct calls and orders from the buyers. The artisans are getting benefited out of it," said Nasir Ali Khan, who is a social media influencer.&nbsp;

"All these artisans want the younger generation to get attracted towards the craft as well. I have received a lot of response from young people, and they want to be a part of it," Khan added. &nbsp;

The handicraft department plans to make these safaris self-sustainable.&nbsp;

To revive the centuries-old handmade arts and crafts of India's Kashmir Valley, the department of handicrafts and handloom has started craft safaris in Srinagar city.

To revive the centuries-old handmade arts and crafts of India's Kashmir Valley, the department of handicrafts and handloom has started craft safaris in Srinagar city. The government expects that these safaris will help grow the business of the craftsmen as well as the buyers can directly buy from the artisans with a guarantee of authenticity. The step has been taken after UNESCO listed Srinagar among the creative cities of the world. The craft safari included visiting artisans of crafts like paper mache, woodcarving, pottery, silverware, copperware, namdhaKari, pashmina and silk carpets. ALSO READ | LPG cylinder becomes more expensive from March 1; check out new rates "After listing Srinagar as the creative city, we want to highlight certain products and it's very important to highlight certain crafts. The idea behind this is that in an area of 2 kms you can visit the workplaces of these artisans; you are able to see 5-6 crafts," said Mehmood Shah, who is the Director Handloom and Handicrafts in Kashmir. "We have got a very good response and the aim is to connect the artisan with the customer and show them the hard work that is put by these artisans into these products. I am happy we are getting great responses for these safaris. We have designed these tours and they are in the public domain to reach out to those people who are interested in the crafts," Shah added. ALSO READ | India to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine, 'evacuation efforts on,' says MEA The artisans of the Kashmir valley appreciate the steps taken by the government. A lot of machine-made craft was being sold as handmade, and steps like these will make sure to put an end to it. The hard work that an artisan puts in making these artefacts can be witnessed during these safaris. And now the buyers from across the country or world can visit and buy authentic original products from the artisans itself. ''Artisans always want to be appreciated and we are thankful that this step has been taken by the handicraft department and Director Mehmood Shah. Meeting the artisans, seeing their hard work and making buyers buy the original products is a unique experience," said Sajjad Ali, who is an artisan. "The middlemen sometimes really created confusion regarding handmade and machine-made products. It's a great confidence building step. The products are appreciated all over the world and this will boost it further," Ali added. The government has also collaborated with social media influencers from the Kashmir Valley. The influencers are posting stories about the artisans and their products and it has helped to grow the business further. "For me it takes the artisans to buyers straight away and we have seen in the past also, it's the 4-5th edition and after these the artisans are getting direct calls and orders from the buyers. The artisans are getting benefited out of it," said Nasir Ali Khan, who is a social media influencer. "All these artisans want the younger generation to get attracted towards the craft as well. I have received a lot of response from young people, and they want to be a part of it," Khan added. The handicraft department plans to make these safaris self-sustainable.

Craft Safari in Srinagar: Efforts to take buyers directly to artisans

The silk carpets from the Kashmir valley are famous across the world and to preserve that the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) in Srinagar has started labelling the famed carpets.

Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed&nbsp;outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises.&nbsp;

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''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed&nbsp;at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar.&nbsp;

The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their&nbsp;centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city.&nbsp;

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''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient&nbsp;vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer.&nbsp;

The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places. The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar. The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer. The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.

Jammu and Kashmir police start women safety squad in Srinagar

A decade ago while analysing the development scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, the Planning Commission lamented the slow growth in the region and attributed it to various factors. It said the climate of armed militancy in Kashmir and low productivity in agriculture and allied sectors has impeded employment and income generation. Poor industrial infrastructure along with the poor investment climate has left the industrial sector in its infant stage.

It mentioned that there has not been a suitable strategy for the potential sectors to achieve higher economic growth. It further mentioned that the lack of good governance and sound fiscal management has also been responsible for the poor economic growth of the state.

During the past two years, the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been marching on the path of development as a result of the government’s initiatives, which included various developmental schemes executed under the prime minister development package focusing on individual beneficiaries and reviving long-pending projects lying dormant for several decades by removing the obstacles, through ensuring effective and transparent administration.

Both the Union and the UT governments have been leveraging technology to provide several benefits to the local population of the UT. In the field of IT, several procedures have been framed such as providing, building two large sizes IT parks (spread over half a million square feet) — one each in Jammu and Srinagar.

Among some other initiatives, the UT administration also released a real estate policy equipped with a transparent bidding process to disburse government-created “land banks” to private developers. The all-around developmental approach adopted by the J&amp;K government has a special focus on developing a network of roads and highways only.

To ensure growth in the valley and enable the UT to come at par with the other states of the country, almost all the projects across various sectors that were ignored, have been infused with new life.

In 2015, a huge package of Rs.800 billion was allocated by the Modi government to the state government for initiating various development projects to convert J&amp;K into a modern, prosperous and progressive place.&nbsp;

The benefits of abrogation of article 370 have started to trickle down to the people. After Aug. 5, 2019, the J&amp;K government received investment proposals worth Rs.150 billion from around 40 companies from sectors like Information Technology, Defense, Renewable Energy, Tourism, Skill, Education, Hospitality, and infrastructure.

During the past two years, the J&amp;K government has achieved 100 per cent household electrification with 24×7 power for all. Household water connections have reached 43 per cent of rural households which is double the national average of 21 per cent, and a road map has been prepared to ensure 100 per cent coverage of piped water supply to all 10816 million rural households by December 2021.

The Indian government in February 2020 approved Rs 60 billion for a multi-purpose irrigation cum power project in J&amp;K’s Kathua district. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation has been in charge of power projects to overcome the acute shortage of electricity in J&amp;K.

In 2019, 15 power projects were inaugurated and the foundation stone for 20 others laid with worth Rs.100 billion. The formation of Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) and Jammu Power Development Corporation Limited (JPDCL) has been helping J&amp;K to become self-reliant in the power sector.

With a holistic approach for all-around human development in the UT covering crucial sectors like education, healthcare, employment generation, tourism, industrial growth among others. To provide quality education to Kashmiri children and youth, the government has established hundreds of schools and 50 new educational institutions offering 25,000 seats to students, launched scholarship schemes benefitting more than half a million students so far.

New Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) are coming up in UT. 02 All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), 07 new medical colleges, 05 new nursing colleges, and a state cancer institute are being constructed for better healthcare services to the J&amp;K people.

The people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially from Valley, consciously exercised their political preference for democracy and idea of India, which encompasses, peace, pluralism, equality, terror-free right to, life and liberty, as against death and destruction inflicted by terrorists on the people of Kashmir.

The idea of India in Kashmir and plural Kashmir’s ethos is meaningless for Kashmiri society and the rest of the world unless the Exiled Kashmiri Pandits are physically repatriated back to their homeland with dignity and political-economic empowerment.

The enactment of the law regarding Zila Parishads under the Panchayati Raj system and its extension to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370/35A was a great step aimed at introducing grass-root level democracy and administration. In other words, it means taking the governance to the doorstep of the people living in the remotest corner of the UT.

Though it is being done for the first time in J&amp;K that the three-tier Panchayati Raj stands implemented, the people in the UT have responded like mature and responsible citizens and voters in the whole process of elections. The near normal and peaceful election process has added to the happy and satisfactory situation for all concerned.

An overall percentage of 50 per cent&nbsp;voting in the UT despite the severe cold, Covid-19 situation, and the background of the boycott politics in the valley, in particular, is not a mean achievement. Kashmiri’s are sick of ongoing terror violence for more than three decades and are longing for peace and a peaceful right to life and liberty.

They see India as a promising land of opportunities. people of Kashmir Valley have chosen democracy, the mainstream political narrative, and liberal Sufi Islamic way of life and have once again rejected the separatist rhetoric and religious extremism. New Delhi is doing its best to win the hearts and minds of people.

Kashmiris on their part have to make extra efforts to defeat terrorism and separatism and create an atmosphere for peace and a new beginning for regaining their land’s lost glory.”

(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.)

A decade ago while analysing the development scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, the Planning Commission lamented the slow growth in the region and attributed it to various factors.

A decade ago while analysing the development scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, the Planning Commission lamented the slow growth in the region and attributed it to various factors. It said the climate of armed militancy in Kashmir and low productivity in agriculture and allied sectors has impeded employment and income generation. Poor industrial infrastructure along with the poor investment climate has left the industrial sector in its infant stage. It mentioned that there has not been a suitable strategy for the potential sectors to achieve higher economic growth. It further mentioned that the lack of good governance and sound fiscal management has also been responsible for the poor economic growth of the state. During the past two years, the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been marching on the path of development as a result of the government’s initiatives, which included various developmental schemes executed under the prime minister development package focusing on individual beneficiaries and reviving long-pending projects lying dormant for several decades by removing the obstacles, through ensuring effective and transparent administration. Both the Union and the UT governments have been leveraging technology to provide several benefits to the local population of the UT. In the field of IT, several procedures have been framed such as providing, building two large sizes IT parks (spread over half a million square feet) — one each in Jammu and Srinagar. Among some other initiatives, the UT administration also released a real estate policy equipped with a transparent bidding process to disburse government-created “land banks” to private developers. The all-around developmental approach adopted by the J&K government has a special focus on developing a network of roads and highways only. To ensure growth in the valley and enable the UT to come at par with the other states of the country, almost all the projects across various sectors that were ignored, have been infused with new life. In 2015, a huge package of Rs.800 billion was allocated by the Modi government to the state government for initiating various development projects to convert J&K into a modern, prosperous and progressive place. The benefits of abrogation of article 370 have started to trickle down to the people. After Aug. 5, 2019, the J&K government received investment proposals worth Rs.150 billion from around 40 companies from sectors like Information Technology, Defense, Renewable Energy, Tourism, Skill, Education, Hospitality, and infrastructure. During the past two years, the J&K government has achieved 100 per cent household electrification with 24×7 power for all. Household water connections have reached 43 per cent of rural households which is double the national average of 21 per cent, and a road map has been prepared to ensure 100 per cent coverage of piped water supply to all 10816 million rural households by December 2021. The Indian government in February 2020 approved Rs 60 billion for a multi-purpose irrigation cum power project in J&K’s Kathua district. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation has been in charge of power projects to overcome the acute shortage of electricity in J&K. In 2019, 15 power projects were inaugurated and the foundation stone for 20 others laid with worth Rs.100 billion. The formation of Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) and Jammu Power Development Corporation Limited (JPDCL) has been helping J&K to become self-reliant in the power sector. With a holistic approach for all-around human development in the UT covering crucial sectors like education, healthcare, employment generation, tourism, industrial growth among others. To provide quality education to Kashmiri children and youth, the government has established hundreds of schools and 50 new educational institutions offering 25,000 seats to students, launched scholarship schemes benefitting more than half a million students so far. New Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) are coming up in UT. 02 All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), 07 new medical colleges, 05 new nursing colleges, and a state cancer institute are being constructed for better healthcare services to the J&K people. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially from Valley, consciously exercised their political preference for democracy and idea of India, which encompasses, peace, pluralism, equality, terror-free right to, life and liberty, as against death and destruction inflicted by terrorists on the people of Kashmir. The idea of India in Kashmir and plural Kashmir’s ethos is meaningless for Kashmiri society and the rest of the world unless the Exiled Kashmiri Pandits are physically repatriated back to their homeland with dignity and political-economic empowerment. The enactment of the law regarding Zila Parishads under the Panchayati Raj system and its extension to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370/35A was a great step aimed at introducing grass-root level democracy and administration. In other words, it means taking the governance to the doorstep of the people living in the remotest corner of the UT. Though it is being done for the first time in J&K that the three-tier Panchayati Raj stands implemented, the people in the UT have responded like mature and responsible citizens and voters in the whole process of elections. The near normal and peaceful election process has added to the happy and satisfactory situation for all concerned. An overall percentage of 50 per cent voting in the UT despite the severe cold, Covid-19 situation, and the background of the boycott politics in the valley, in particular, is not a mean achievement. Kashmiri’s are sick of ongoing terror violence for more than three decades and are longing for peace and a peaceful right to life and liberty. They see India as a promising land of opportunities. people of Kashmir Valley have chosen democracy, the mainstream political narrative, and liberal Sufi Islamic way of life and have once again rejected the separatist rhetoric and religious extremism. New Delhi is doing its best to win the hearts and minds of people. Kashmiris on their part have to make extra efforts to defeat terrorism and separatism and create an atmosphere for peace and a new beginning for regaining their land’s lost glory.” (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.)

Opinion - Jammu and Kashmir: Marching with India on path of progress

Indian security forces have neutralised terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar. Two pistols have also been recovered after the operation.

Indian security forces neutralise terrorists in Srinagar, 2 pistols recovered after operation

In a first, Tricolour was unfurled for the first time on the top of the Clock Tower in the Lal Chowk area of Srinagar on the solemn occasion of Republic Day.

India's 73rd Republic Day: Tricolour hoisted at Srinagar's Lal Chowk after 30 years

For the first time in history, India's flag - the tricolour - was unfurled on the clock tower in the famous Lal Chowk area in Srinagar - a city in Jammu and Kashmir. This is for the first time after India's independence that the national flag has been unfurled on top of Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower).&nbsp;

On the 73rd Republic Day celebrations, the locals along with NGO's and administration held a flag hoisting ceremony at the Lal Chowk area. Two local activists Sajid Yousuf Shah and Sahil Bashir were carried by a crane on top of the clock tower where they unfurled the flag.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-breathtaking-display-by-indias-border-security-forces-women-team-during-republic-day-parade-447728">Breathtaking display by India's Border Security Force's women team during Republic Day parade</a>

"Since independence, we have only seen Pakistani flags hoisted here and those were Pakistani Sponsored elements who wanted to disrupt the peace in the Valley. Since the abrogation of article 370, we can see a lot of changes on the ground. The people were asking what Naya Kashmir means? Today hoisting the National flag on top of the clock tower is what Naya Kashmir stands for. This is what the people of Jammu and Kashmir want. We don’t want any Pakistani flags, we want peace and development," said Sahil Bashir, activist after unfurling the flag.&nbsp;

The clock tower in Lal Chowk has always had great importance regarding the politics of Kashmir. All the big leaders of India and Jammu and Kashmir have tried in the past to hoist a national flag on top of the clock tower but never were successful.&nbsp;

"Since the independence of India, this was the only place which did not have the Indian National flag. I decided to do this, and we have done it. A lot of people tried it earlier, but we were the only ones successful. As an Indian, we have unfurled the flag here and it’s given us happiness," Sajid Yousuf, activist.&nbsp;

On this occasion, a martial art event and students from various districts were brought to witness the unfurling of the flag. Security has been put on high alert across the Kashmir Valley especially in Srinagar city. Barricades were put up everywhere and vehicles were allowed only after checking. Mobile internet was also shut down this morning.&nbsp;

For the first time in history, India's flag - the tricolour - was unfurled on the clock tower in the famous Lal Chowk area in Srinagar - a city in Jammu and Kashmir.

For the first time in history, India's flag - the tricolour - was unfurled on the clock tower in the famous Lal Chowk area in Srinagar - a city in Jammu and Kashmir. This is for the first time after India's independence that the national flag has been unfurled on top of Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower). On the 73rd Republic Day celebrations, the locals along with NGO's and administration held a flag hoisting ceremony at the Lal Chowk area. Two local activists Sajid Yousuf Shah and Sahil Bashir were carried by a crane on top of the clock tower where they unfurled the flag. WATCH | Breathtaking display by India's Border Security Force's women team during Republic Day parade "Since independence, we have only seen Pakistani flags hoisted here and those were Pakistani Sponsored elements who wanted to disrupt the peace in the Valley. Since the abrogation of article 370, we can see a lot of changes on the ground. The people were asking what Naya Kashmir means? Today hoisting the National flag on top of the clock tower is what Naya Kashmir stands for. This is what the people of Jammu and Kashmir want. We don’t want any Pakistani flags, we want peace and development," said Sahil Bashir, activist after unfurling the flag. The clock tower in Lal Chowk has always had great importance regarding the politics of Kashmir. All the big leaders of India and Jammu and Kashmir have tried in the past to hoist a national flag on top of the clock tower but never were successful. "Since the independence of India, this was the only place which did not have the Indian National flag. I decided to do this, and we have done it. A lot of people tried it earlier, but we were the only ones successful. As an Indian, we have unfurled the flag here and it’s given us happiness," Sajid Yousuf, activist. On this occasion, a martial art event and students from various districts were brought to witness the unfurling of the flag. Security has been put on high alert across the Kashmir Valley especially in Srinagar city. Barricades were put up everywhere and vehicles were allowed only after checking. Mobile internet was also shut down this morning.

History scripted in Srinagar as India's flag unfurled on top of clock tower in Lal Chowk

On the Srinagar-Leh highway, an avalanche hits Zoji La Pass near Ranga Morh. However, no casualties have been reported. Because of the massive accumulation of snow at Zoji La pass, the administration had already blocked the Srinagar-Leh road for the winter.

J&K: Avalanche hits Zoji La Pass on Srinagar-Leh highway

Santa has already arrived with a gift for Christian community living in Srinagar. After 30 years of being shut, Srinagar's centre looks charged. Take a look.

Jammu & Kashmir: Church in Srinagar reopens after 30 years

J&K: Srinagar's St Luke's church to reopen after 30 years giving happiness to Christian community

Looks like Elsa's castle! Lakes, rivers, waterfalls freeze as Kashmir Valley records sub-zero temperatures

Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees.&nbsp;

Also, Drass in Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 19.7 degrees.&nbsp;

It is for the second time in the last decade that temperature has dipped to minus 6 degrees in Srinagar before the start of Chillai-e-Kalan, a 40-day long coldest part of the season starting which begins on December 21.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/studying-uks-omicron-trend-experts-warn-india-could-see-14-million-daily-covid-cases-437838">Also read |&nbsp;Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 14 million daily Covid cases</a>

The temperatures in tourist resorts like Gulmarg was recorded at 8.5 degrees while Pahalgam was at minus 8.3 degrees.&nbsp; 
Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 15 degrees while Kargil was at minus 13.1 degrees.&nbsp;

The temperatures will further continue to dip in the coming few days, said the MeT department in Srinagar. The department has also predicted moderate to heavy snowfall from 23-25 December.&nbsp;

Kashmir is again expected to see white Christmas this year.&nbsp;

Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees.

Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been hit by a severe cold wave. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir recorded the coldest night of the season with a temperature of minus 6 degrees. Also, Drass in Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 19.7 degrees. It is for the second time in the last decade that temperature has dipped to minus 6 degrees in Srinagar before the start of Chillai-e-Kalan, a 40-day long coldest part of the season starting which begins on December 21. Also read | Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 14 million daily Covid cases The temperatures in tourist resorts like Gulmarg was recorded at 8.5 degrees while Pahalgam was at minus 8.3 degrees. Leh recorded the minimum temperature at minus 15 degrees while Kargil was at minus 13.1 degrees. The temperatures will further continue to dip in the coming few days, said the MeT department in Srinagar. The department has also predicted moderate to heavy snowfall from 23-25 December. Kashmir is again expected to see white Christmas this year.

Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave

Two policemen were killed and 12 others suffered injuries as terrorists carried out a deadly attack on a bus carrying Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police personnel on the outskirts of Srinagar.

2 dead, 12 injured in terror attack on police bus in Jammu & Kashmir

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The&nbsp;bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.

The identification of the terrorists has not been done yet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-terrorist-killed-in-ongoing-gunfight-in-south-kashmir-436183" hreflang="en">One terrorist killed in ongoing gunfight in South Kashmir</a>

"Two unidentified terrorists killed in an Encounter in Rangreth area of Srinagar. Search (is) going on,"&nbsp;said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir police had a specific input about the presence of these two terrorists in the Rangreth area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on security forces leading to a gun battle.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rich-tributes-paid-to-general-bipin-rawat-across-kashmir-valley-435935" hreflang="en">Rich tributes paid to General Bipin Rawat across Kashmir valley</a>

Right now, the area is highly secured as Army's JAKLI unit is adjacent to the encounter site. Yesterday, there was an encounter in South Kashmir's Awantipora area. One terrorist was killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

The operation at Rangret has now been called off.&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.

Two terrorists were killed in a brief encounter in Srinagar's Rangreth area today. The bodies of terrorists along with arms and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site. The identification of the terrorists has not been done yet. Also read | One terrorist killed in ongoing gunfight in South Kashmir "Two unidentified terrorists killed in an Encounter in Rangreth area of Srinagar. Search (is) going on," said Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Jammu and Kashmir police had a specific input about the presence of these two terrorists in the Rangreth area after which a Cordon and Search operation (CASO) was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on security forces leading to a gun battle. Also read | Rich tributes paid to General Bipin Rawat across Kashmir valley Right now, the area is highly secured as Army's JAKLI unit is adjacent to the encounter site. Yesterday, there was an encounter in South Kashmir's Awantipora area. One terrorist was killed in the encounter. The operation at Rangret has now been called off.

J&K: Two terrorists killed in Srinagar encounter

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by&nbsp;home quarantine for one week.&nbsp;

The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where&nbsp;full medical arrangements will be made as well.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-witnesses-rise-in-covid-reinfections-433797">WATCH |</a>

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''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.''

The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel.

''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol,&nbsp;nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody,"&nbsp;said Itresha, an American tourist.&nbsp;"If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' &nbsp;

The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come.&nbsp;

''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.&nbsp;

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley.

At a time when the world is facing the new variant 'Omicron' of COVID-19, the administration in Jammu and Kashmir has sprung into action. The administration has chalked out new rules and regulations for the international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley. All those people who are either tourists from different countries or locals who travelled abroad will have to be quarantined. The official quarantine will continue till the time test reports come, followed by home quarantine for one week. The Srinagar administration has set up three special quarantine centers for foreign tourists and locals who have traveled abroad. These facilities would be free of cost. The administration has also established paid quarantine centers where full medical arrangements will be made as well. WATCH | ''WHO has detected the new variant and says it is a cause of concern, they have called it Omicron. We have taken steps at the Srinagar airport, all tourists and locals coming from abroad will have to get a RT-PCR test done at the airport only. After taking the samples, we have set up quarantine centres and till the time results don't come, they have to stay in these centres. We have taken these steps to stop the border transmission," said Ajaz Asad District Commissioner, Srinagar. "Yesterday, a passenger from Bandipora who had come from Saudi Arabia tested positive and there are four such samples which are inconclusive. The moment we get the results of these, the ones who come positive will be sent to DRDO Hospital and those who will test negative will be asked to home-quarantine for a week.'' The tourists who are landing in Srinagar are finding it difficult to adhere to these new rules by the Srinagar administration. They say that they have not explained the new protocols. One such American tourist in Srinagar was completely dissatisfied with the authorities' handling of the situation. She, along with other tourists, were unhappy about their travel. ''They told me to wait and get tested and I don't know what's the protocol, nobody explained to me. I waited for two or three hours and they told me to get tested again. Then they took us to quarantine. First, they told one day, then seven days. This is inhumane what they are doing to everybody," said Itresha, an American tourist. "If the Indian government says if you test negative, it's fine, why are there different regulations here. You can't make your own rules as you go along, it's not right, it's inhumane. This is my first time here and I don't feel welcome here. I feel really bad for everyone who has to go through the same.'' The marriage hall and two hotels with all facilities have been converted into the Quarantine centres. After the International travellers go through the covid tests at the Srinagar International Airport, they have to be quarantined at these facilities till the results come. ''I have landed in Srinagar this morning, central government had issued a list of countries where in those people need to be quarantined, but we are coming from Maldives. We said okay to RT-PCR but we are being told that if you come negative you have to stay at home for seven days; we don't live here and we can't be hotel bound for next seven days. There is no hot water or food here for us. It's difficult as we don't know anyone here and we are stuck,'' said Tushar Saxena, Delhi resident who returned from Maldives. Jammu and Kashmir is also witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The daily cases in the union territory have crossed 200 mark while 39 people have died last month due to the Covid related issues. In the last 24 hours, 177 new cases have been detected in Jammu Kashmir.

Omicron variant in India: New rules for international travellers coming to Kashmir Valley

Srinagar city has made it to the list of creative city networks of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Srinagar made it to the list of 49 cities across the world.

Srinagar's intricate handicrafts recognized in the coveted list

Jammu and Kashmir has been witnessing a sharp rise in the COVID-19 cases as 165 new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, while three succumbed to the deadly virus.

Kashmir division has reported 147 cases, while Jammu had 18 new cases.&nbsp;Notably, this is the highest number of infections that have been recorded in the last six weeks.

Srinagar is emerging as one of the hotspots for the Covid spread, as about 554 out of 968 active cases (that is 57 per cent) have been reported so far.

“We have taken a lot of containment measures. We have created micro containment zones. There are five wards which&nbsp;are under corona curfew, these are: Lal Bazaar, Hyderpora, Chanapora, and Bemina. We have&nbsp;also mobilised our health staff for screen testing. We have also upped the speed of the vaccination drive in the region,” said Ajaz Asad, District Collector, Srinagar.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/booster-dose-to-be-taken-6-months-after-covaxins-2nd-dose-bharat-biotech-cmd-428449">Booster dose to be taken 6 months after Covaxin's 2nd dose: Bharat Biotech CMD</a>

The medical staff fear that a further spike in the COVID cases could be expected as a huge influx of tourists is being witnessed in the state. They say that the current scale of testing capacity needs to be upgraded to test more tourists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/96-countries-accept-indias-covid-vaccination-certificates-says-health-minister-428210">96 countries accept India’s Covid vaccination certificates, says health minister</a>

“'There is a standard protocol for any tourist visiting the valley. At the airport, either you require an RT-PCR test or on the spot the Rapid Antigen Test. I feel there is a good influx of tourists at the moment as all the hotels are booked, that’s why we want to control the Covid cases at the beginning. We are taking all the measures to curb the spread&nbsp;of infection. We overcame the first and second wave with the support of people, and we can again if people adhere to the Covid protocols,” Asad said.&nbsp;

The Jammu Kashmir Administration is currently doing more than 50,000 tests across the Union Territory daily.

Jammu and Kashmir has been witnessing a sharp rise in the COVID-19 cases as 165 new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, while three succumbed to the deadly virus.

Jammu and Kashmir has been witnessing a sharp rise in the COVID-19 cases as 165 new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, while three succumbed to the deadly virus. Kashmir division has reported 147 cases, while Jammu had 18 new cases. Notably, this is the highest number of infections that have been recorded in the last six weeks. Srinagar is emerging as one of the hotspots for the Covid spread, as about 554 out of 968 active cases (that is 57 per cent) have been reported so far. “We have taken a lot of containment measures. We have created micro containment zones. There are five wards which are under corona curfew, these are: Lal Bazaar, Hyderpora, Chanapora, and Bemina. We have also mobilised our health staff for screen testing. We have also upped the speed of the vaccination drive in the region,” said Ajaz Asad, District Collector, Srinagar. Also read | Booster dose to be taken 6 months after Covaxin's 2nd dose: Bharat Biotech CMD The medical staff fear that a further spike in the COVID cases could be expected as a huge influx of tourists is being witnessed in the state. They say that the current scale of testing capacity needs to be upgraded to test more tourists. Also read | 96 countries accept India’s Covid vaccination certificates, says health minister “'There is a standard protocol for any tourist visiting the valley. At the airport, either you require an RT-PCR test or on the spot the Rapid Antigen Test. I feel there is a good influx of tourists at the moment as all the hotels are booked, that’s why we want to control the Covid cases at the beginning. We are taking all the measures to curb the spread of infection. We overcame the first and second wave with the support of people, and we can again if people adhere to the Covid protocols,” Asad said. The Jammu Kashmir Administration is currently doing more than 50,000 tests across the Union Territory daily.

Covid cases rise in India's Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar emerges as hotspot

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