Srinagar, March 3: Srinagar Police have taken serious cognizance of the 'deliberate circulation' of false, fabricated and misleading information by certain News Channels, Media outlets, and individuals across electronic and social Media platforms. In a statement issued here, Srinagar Police said these elements were systematically attempting to spread distorted narratives and unverified content with the clear intent to incite unrest, disturb Public order, and create disharmony in society. "Such malicious misinformation campaigns pose a grave threat to peace, security, and the integrity of the Nation," the statement reads. Acting firmly, Srinagar Police has registered FIR No. 01/2026 at Cyber Police Station under relevant legal provisions. "Several Profiles have been identified, and concerned individuals have been summoned to the Cyber Cell. Investigation is actively underway, and strict legal action will follow against anyone found involved," it reads. Srinagar Police issued a "clear warning" that spreading fake news, inflammatory content, or unverified information will invite stringent legal consequences. "Citizens and media organizations are advised to exercise responsibility and verify facts only from official and credible sources before sharing any content that may disturb communal harmony or public order," the statement reads. The statement reads that Srinagar Police remains resolute in maintaining law & order and will not allow any attempt to destabilize peace in the region.

Srinagar, March 2: Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) has condemned the loss of innocent civilian lives, particularly the suffering of children, amid the ongoing conflict affecting Iran and the wider region. Expressing deep concern over the humanitarian situation, president PSAJK Dr. Islam said that the education fraternity of Jammu & Kashmir stands in solidarity with families and children impacted by violence and instability. He termed the killing of Shaheed Ayatullah Khomeini as deeply tragic and emphasized that violence and war only bring devastation to humanity. “The school community believes in peace, dialogue, and the protection of human life. Educational institutions represent hope and humanity, and we strongly condemn all acts that result in the loss of innocent lives,” he said. PSAJK urged all global stakeholders to exercise restraint and prioritize peaceful resolution through dialogue to prevent further humanitarian suffering. Nazrul Islam Baba also appealed to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to take necessary diplomatic measures to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students who remain in Iran and may be facing uncertainty due to the prevailing situation. The association reiterated its appeal for peace and called upon the international community to work collectively towards ending violence and safeguarding civilians, especially children, from the devastating consequences of conflict.

'Do not allow emotions to be misused or diverted in any direction that harms our community' Srinagar, March 2: Senior Political leader and a renowned Shia cleric, Imran Raza Ansari on Monday appealed Shia Youth to  express grief over killing of Iran Supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei, with dignity. In a statement issued on his official X handle, Ansari said that we are in acute shock and unbearable grief at the martyrdom of Shaheed Ayatullah al-Uzma Sayyid Ali Hussaini Khamenei (RA). "A part of our body, a part of our soul feels torn away. The pain is not of one nation alone , it is felt by Shias and all lovers of truth across the world," he said . "Yesterday, no momin could sit peacefully at home; every heart was in aza." He appealed to the Shia youth of Kashmir do not allow emotions to be misused or diverted in any direction that harms our community.  "Our grief is sacred. Let us express it with dignity. Hold Majlis, Marsiya, and gatherings in your local Imam Bargahs and in your own areas. Keep the mourning restricted to your respective areas," he said. "At the same time, if the administration has issued notifications, let us abide by them. Discipline is also part of azadari." He however urged Jammu & Kashmir Police to continue the maximum restraint they showed yesterday. "Itwas commendable. This is an extremely emotional time for the community, and sensitive handling will maintain peace and respect the sentiments of mourners," he said. "Our tears are our protest. Our majlis is our resistance. Let us mourn with unity, patience, and responsibility."

Srinagar, Feb 26: J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday urged graduates of the University of Kashmir (KU) to view education as a “powerful instrument of change” and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. Addressing the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir, the LG congratulated Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofar Khan, faculty members and students, describing the ceremony as a symbol of generational transformation and the people’s enduring faith in modern education. He highlighted women’s achievements and said that out of 249 gold medals, 186 were awarded to female students, while 108 of 164 PhDs also went to women. “When given opportunity, encouragement and freedom, girls don’t just participate — they lead and set new standards of excellence,” he said. The LG urged students to respect and carry forward Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage while remaining adaptable to rapid global change. Referring to Darwin’s principle of adaptability, he stressed the need to evolve with shifts in education, technology and society. Emphasising the growing role of artificial intelligence, LG Sinha said technology should be used as a tool, not as a substitute for human intelligence. “AI can accelerate research, mentoring and problem-solving. Design your own degree — learning is a lifelong process,” he said. He encouraged students to view failure as an essential part of learning, noting that setbacks often open new pathways and opportunities. Stressing the importance of ethics and moral values, the LG called for the responsible use of AI, free from bias and guided by decisions that serve society. LG Sinha also advocated breaking traditional academic silos, encouraging integration of disciplines such as engineering with humanities and biology with economics to develop holistic solutions to modern challenges.  Curiosity, creativity and adaptability, he said, would define the leaders of the future. (KNO)

Waris Fayaz Gulmarg, Feb 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday unveiled its newly formed elite “Snow Leopard” squad, a specialized high-altitude unit created to strengthen security and carryout anti-terror operations in mountainous and snow bound regions across the Union Territory. As per the details, the squad has been deployed for the first time during the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg, where it is responsible for securing athletes, officials and visitors at elevations reaching nearly 14,000 feet. A top Police official said that the deployment marks the operational debut of the unit, designed specifically for mountain security operations and extreme terrain challenges. “The Snow Leopard squad has been raised to respond to emerging terror threats in high altitude zones, where terrorists attempt to exploit difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions. The unit consists primarily of personnel drawn from the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group and functions as a dedicated wing for snow and mountain warfare,” the official added. “The squad personnel underwent over six months of intensive specialized training, conducted alongside elite formations including the Army’s Para Commandos and the Greyhounds Special Forces to enhance combat readiness and operational coordination. The squad has been trained to operate in sub zero temperatures reaching minus 20 degrees Celsius, low oxygen environments, dense forests and avalanche prone areas,”  he said. Apart from combat roles, the unit has also received disaster response training to handle avalanches, landslides, and other natural emergencies common in mountainous areas. The unit currently comprises more than 100 trained personnel, the Snow Leopard squad can be deployed anywhere across Jammu and Kashmir where high altitude operations are required, the official said.

Srinagar, Feb 25: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday evening on his maiden visit to Jammu and Kashmir, marking his first official engagement in the Union Territory since assuming office. The officials said the Vice-President was received at Srinagar Airport by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdulah and other senior officials. “Delighted to welcome Hon’ble Vice-President of India, Shri C P Radhakrishnan Ji at the Srinagar Airport,” LG Sinha wrote on X.      Office of the J&K Chief Minister wrote on X that the CM received Hon’ble Vice-President of India upon his arrival at Srinagar Airport today.  After landing in Srinagar, the Vice-President drove to Lok Bhavan where LG Sinha presented him with a souvenir, said an official.   He said the Vice-President will attend the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir as a chief guest at its Hazratbal campus on Thursday. “The programme is scheduled to begin in the forenoon with the academic procession, followed by the Vice-Chancellor’s annual report highlighting the University’s academic achievements, research output and institutional milestones,” said the official, adding, “Vice-President Radhakrishnan will then deliver the convocation address and formally confer degrees upon graduating students.” He said that Lieutenant Governor and KU Chancellor, Manoj Sinha, will preside over the convocation, while Chief Minister and Pro-Chancellor, Omar Abdullah, will attend the event as a guest of honour. “A total of 59,558 degrees — 44,910 graduates, 13,545 postgraduates, 461 MD/MS, four MCH, 18 MPhil and 620 PhDs — will be conferred at the convocation,” said an official. KU Vice-Chancellor Nilofer Khan said the convocation "celebrates the academic accomplishments of our students and reaffirms our commitment to quality education, research and public engagement." She added that the presence of the Vice-President of India at the event reflects the growing national recognition of the university's academic and research contributions. Elaborate and multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place across Srinagar, particularly in and around the Hazratbal–Nishat–Harwan axis. Senior police and civil administration officers have reviewed the security and logistical preparations to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Meanwhile, authorities have also issued a detailed traffic advisory for parts of Srinagar tomorrow, with restrictions to remain in force from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Srinagar, Feb 25: The minister for education Sakina Itoo Wednesday said the order regarding Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issued by the School Education Department (SED) will not be implemented as J&K was not in a hurry to hold such an exam for the in-service teachers. The statement comes two days after the Secretary SED issued an order for holding TET for the in-service teaches while designating JK Board of School Education as the nodal agency to conduct TET within two years. Talking to reporters, Minister for education said that a few months ago, an order was issued by the Supreme Court making it mandatory for teachers to qualify TET to continue their services. "But when we received the case file, we said that for now, let's see where the implementation takes place, in which states, in which UTs, and on what pattern they conduct the exam," Sakina Itoo said. She, however, blamed the former education minister Naeem Akhtar saying he advocated for subjecting teachers to such exams. "The teachers have taught children for 30–35 years and the children they taught are now doctors, engineers, IAS, KAS officers, teachers, professors, or holding other big offices," she said. "And today we are saying that they (teachers) will have to give this test." The minister said she had already decided there was no hurry in holding TET for teachers. "Let us see how this test is conducted outside in other states and what the possibilities are. For now, there is no immediate need For it," she said. She said J&K will hold TET once it is conducted in other states. "Let us see how it is being implemented everywhere, and we will also see that kind of direction from the Honorable Supreme Court, if there is any progress in this, then it will be reviewed. For now, there is no need to do it immediately. And this is what I had ordered earlier as well," she said. Notably, a copy of the order issued by Secretary SED on February 23, 2026, has been also sent to the office of education minister. "I saw it on social media that some discussion regarding TET came to know that some order has also come. But that order is not any order, and there will be no implementation of that order," she said. She said that Supreme Court has already given two years in this matter. "When it is applied all over India and people implement it there, then J&K will implement it at the end," she said. As already reported, SED on Monday decided to go ahead with the TET and designated State School Standards Authority (SSSA)/JKBOSE as the nodal agency for holding the exam of the teachers. As per the order issued by Secretary SED, JKBOSE has been asked to take immediate necessary steps for operationalization of the TET examination framework in accordance with the Action Plan formulated in the meeting convened on October 30 of 2025. "Develop and notify a detailed schedule for conduct of TET. Coordinate with NIC, School Education Department, Higher Education Department, Home Department, and other concerned authorities for logistical, technical and security arrangements," the SED order reads. JKBOSE has been asked to ensure alignment of syllabus and examination standards with the guidelines of the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), with suitable contextual modifications. "The Secretary JK BOSE/SSSA shall furnish a comprehensive Action Plan, including timelines and preparatory status, to the School Education Department within shortest possible time," the order reads.

Peerzada Zubair  Kupwara, Feb 24: Globally recognised social activist and founder of the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, Rouble Nagi visited the LoC village of Amrohi in Tangdhar with the support of the Indian Army.  She distributed blanket kits among needy families and interacted with students. Highlighting the need to combat the growing drug menace among youth, she committed to expanding skill, art and digital learning centres across villages along the LoC to empower women and young people. Two centres are already functional in Tangdhar, while new computer learning facilities will be opened in Amrohi and Jabdi. She also appreciated the vision of the GOC Kupwara Division for actively engaging youth through education, skills and constructive initiatives across Kashmir. She also appreciated the efforts by the Indian Army and Civil Administration in promoting border area tourism, extending full support by Rouble Nagi Arts Foundation, in promotion of Border area and battlefield tourism.

Srinagar, Feb 24: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday approved the development of the Civil Enclave at Srinagar International Airport proposed at an estimated cost of Rs.1,677 crore. It will mark a major milestone in strengthening aviation infrastructure and connectivity in the Kashmir Valley. The project scope also includes the construction of barracks for security personnel. Operated by the Airports Authority of India within the Budgam Airbase of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the airport designated as an international airport in 2005, is located approximately 12 km from Srinagar city. The new Civil Enclave project, spread over 73.18 acres, will feature a state-of-the-art terminal building spanning 71,500 square meters (including 20,659 square meters of existing structure), designed to serve 2,900 passengers during peak hours and an annual capacity of 10 million passengers per annum (MPPA).  The expanded apron will accommodate 15 aircraft parking bays including 1 widebody (Code E) (9 existing and 6 proposed), while the 3,658m x 45m runway continues to be operated by the IAF. The project will also include the construction of multi-level car parking facility for 1,000 cars. Architecturally, the new terminal will reflect a harmonious blend of modern design and the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, incorporating traditional elements such as intricate woodwork and locally inspired craftsmanship while maintaining operational efficiency through streamlined passenger processing areas, spacious lounges, and advanced security and check-in facilities. Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the development, with features such as advanced water harvesting systems, maximized natural lighting to reduce energy consumption, and the use of locally sourced eco-friendly materials to minimize the carbon footprint. This project is targeted to achieve a prestigious 5-star GRIHA rating. Beyond infrastructure enhancement, the project is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic growth by improving connectivity to iconic attractions including Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, and the Mughal Gardens, thereby generating employment opportunities, stimulating investment, and reinforcing Srinagar’s position as a premier tourist and economic destination.  The development of the Civil Enclave represents a transformative step toward delivering world-class infrastructure, offering better facilities for passengers and enhanced connectivity, while showcasing the cultural and natural splendour of Kashmir to the world.

Srinagar, Feb 22 : Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi has welcomed the response of the Union Ministry of Railways to the concerns raised by MP Baramulla Er Rashid regarding the proposed Baramulla–Uri railway alignment passing through densely populated areas of Baramulla town. In a statement issued here, Inam Un Nabi said MP Er Rashid had taken up the matter with Union Railway Minister, highlighting that the present alignment affects residential localities including Sherwani Colony, Jetty Khawajabagh and Fatehpora besides adjoining residential colonies and may lead to displacement of families and disruption of community infrastructure. Quoting the reply received from Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, Inam Un Nabi said the Ministry has received the letter dated 02.02.2026 regarding representation concerning the proposed Baramulla–Uri Railway alignment affecting densely populated residential areas. "The above-mentioned letter has been forwarded to the directorate concerned for necessary action," the reply reads. Inam termed the response a positive development and expressed hope that Northern Railways will review the present alignment, explore alternative routes and ensure proper consultation with local residents before finalising the project. He added that AIP will continue to follow up the matter to safeguard public interests while supporting development.

Kupwara, Feb 22: For the young men and women of Tangdhar, ambition has always had to wait for the weather to clear and the ceasefire to hold. Wedged against the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir’s Karnah sector, the town is defined by its borders—geographical, political, and psychological. This week, a small delegation attempted to redraw the last of those lines. A team from Young Indians (Yi), the youth wing of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), traveled to this frontier outpost to scout for what the military calls “hearts and minds” but what the industry calls “human capital.” Facilitated by the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps, the visit represented a rare intersection between the corporate world and a conflict zone. The setting was a modest government conference hall. On one side sat local entrepreneurs, students from Government Degree College Tangdhar, and district officials—Assistant Commissioner Revenue Mumtaz, BDO Muddasir, and Tehsildar Ameen Bhat. On the other were men in blazers who had flown in from the cities, armed with PowerPoint potential and market linkages. The agenda was simple, yet for this valley, revolutionary: How does a village overlooking a militarized border build a business? The answer, the delegates suggested, lies in the very geography that has held it back. The delegation explored models for border tourism, where visitors could walk through history along the LoC. They discussed homestays, where a tourist might wake up to noon chai with a view of the peaks that define the frontier. Cottage industries, they argued, could find a market if the supply chain were de-clogged. “This isn’t just a meeting; it’s a message,” a  YI member said. "These kids see the fence every day. We want them to see a future beyond it.” Yi has committed to a sustained program of mentorship and hand-holding, a promise to walk with the local entrepreneurs beyond the initial handshake. For the administration, it was a validation of ground-level work. For the army, it was a soft-power win. But for the youth in the room, it was perhaps the first time they saw the mainstream economy as something that could exist on their side of the mountains. Peerzada Waseem, a local who also met the delegation. “It was truly a moment of happiness for the people of Tangdhar, especially for the youth, who have been waiting for years for the green light for border tourism, which had been suspended," he said. Waseem said the dreams they had seen years ago, when border tourism was first promoted, were cut short after Operation Sindoor.  "The youngsters had just started to see their businesses thrive, as tourism here was boosted and tourists from across the country were coming, giving a push to the local economy. But with this visit, we are hopeful that once again we will host tourists and earn our livelihoods," he said. Mohsin Khan, a student at GDC Tangdhar, said they were used to see the Army for security. "But today, we are grateful to see them as hosts for development. They brought the country to our doorstep," he said. “It felt like a bridge was built today." For a long time, the youth felt disconnected from the rest of the country’s progress. "But seeing the Confederation of Indian Industry come all the way here tells us that Viksit Bharat includes us too," he said. Arshid Ahmad, a local, said they have always opened our homes to guests with a cup of salt tea. "Now, the Young Indians delegation is telling us that this hospitality can become our livelihood. We are ready to learn how to turn our traditions into a profession," he said. Notably, the road to Tangdhar is long, often blocked by snow or shut by shelling. But this week, a few travelers made it through, carrying not supplies, but possibilities.

Gulmarg Feb 21: Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa Saturday conducted a comprehensive inspection of various venues and key locations at Gulmarg ahead of the 6th edition of Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG)-2026. The mega sporting event is scheduled to commence from February 23 of 2026. Officers from sports, tourism, health, police, civil administration, and other line departments accompanied the DC during the inspection. During the visit, the DC inspected the Gulmarg Golf Club and other designated competition and accommodation sites to ensure that all necessary arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and successful conduct of the prestigious winter sporting event. Minga Sherpa reviewed venue preparedness, lodging facilities for athletes and officials, transportation plans, medical facilities, emergency response mechanisms, sanitation, power and water supply, and security arrangements.  Earlier, the DC chaired a comprehensive meeting of officers from the concerned departments at Golf Club Gulmarg to review the status of preparations for ensuring a seamless experience for participants and visitors. The DC directed all departments to remain alert, ensure prompt response to any requirement, and maintain high standards of hospitality and professionalism throughout the event. He emphasised the importance of the national-level event and said that hosting the Winter Games was a matter of pride for the district and showcases Gulmarg as a premier winter sports destination.