JAMMU
During his half-day visit, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated developmental projects worth over Rs 32,000 crore. Apart from presenting appointment letters to almost 1500 recently recruited government employees, he engaged in dialogue with the beneficiaries of various government schemes under the flagship programme of Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu. However, it was his speech, the first in Jammu and Kashmir after August 2019, which was important. He said the abrogation of Article 370 has demolished the barrier that was preventing development. He said Jammu and Kashmir is getting freedom from exploitative dynastic politics. He listed the massive investment in Jammu that has triggered a chain of institutions making the temple city a vibrant space. Most of the commentary suggested the visit was linked to the general election in which he asked people to give BJP 370 seats.
With 1200 on its rolls, IIM Jammu’s new campus spans over 200 acres and was constructed for Rs 500.91 crore.
JAMMU
With the law finally getting Pahari, Padari and many other communities into the ambit of reservations, LG Manoj Sinha met several delegations, who thanked him and the Prime Minister for inclusion in the ST list. The administration is also trying to generate calendars to help these communities celebrate the success.
Jammu and Kashmir tops the chart in offering e-services in India. Of the 16,487 e-Services that have been mapped on the NeSDA Way Forward Dashboard by the end of December 2023, JK dominated with 1117.
DELHI
Satyapal Malik, the nosiest person who inhabited the Srinagar Raj Bhawan, is back both in hot waters and news, once again. The man, who has been generating controversies and targeted the BJP – hitting at the top, was raided by CBI. Searches were carried out at Malik’s house in connection with a case linked to the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project. Media reports suggest almost thirty locations in different cities were searched. Pertinently, around eight locations were searched in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir in connection with the investigations being conducted to see the alleged irregularities in the power project, which is being executed by the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL). Admitted to the hospital for a foot infection, Malik told reporters that the raid at his residence was uncalled for because he was the whistleblower and the complainant in the case.
Jammu and Kashmir’s 10.7 lakh Golden Card holders got free treatments worth Rs 1844 crore since December 2020.
TRAL
Every time, there is snow; there is lot of news, mostly owing to accessibility and movement. This season, the show was stolen by Mukhtar Ahmad Gujar, a resident of Brenpathri in Tral. Given the tradition that the community remains too busy during summer, they have their weddings during winter. Mukhar was going to get his wife from Gutroo and the snowfall made it inaccessible. He sought help from CRPF’s 180 battalion and they came with a bullet-proof SUV cavalcade, drove him to his in-laws and brought him back with his bride. Mukhatr’s wedding became an impressive PR event for CRPF. There were many such stories but Mukhar’s was hugely different as he became the first groom whose baraat was driven by CRPF. From Qazigund police evacuated a child in trying circumstances to Anantnag. In Sopore, police evacuated an expecting woman in labour to hospital and in Banihal army hosted a huge gathering of tourists who were stranded because of snow.
Raj Bhawan approved the development of seven new Industrial Estates in Jammu and Kashmir spread over 5290 kanals of land for an amount of Rs 304.51 crore.
HANDWARA
In the continued shrinkage of Kashmir identity, Pheran, the long loose robe still hangs on the shoulders. It was this garment that triggered a serious crisis when a forest guard was suspended for wearing it while on duty. The suspension order issued by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Langate, derogated the guard, Bashir Ahmad Dobhi, person by putting or record that he was looking like a shepherd. As was expected, hell broke loose after the order circulated on social media. The officer was hit for attacking Pheran and then demeaning the profession of a shepherd. All political parties join in condemning the man. Did it lead to Dhobhi’s reinstatement? No information.
The JKEDI will manage a Rs 250 Cr Venture Capital Fund aimed at helping 2,000 start-ups by 2027.
BANDIPORA
Family disputes are getting worse. In Hajin, a 38-year-old man was killed when his cousin attacked him. Ghulam Mohuiddin Parray was left critically injured during the altercation and was rushed to a nearby hospital, from where he was shifted to SKIMS Soura, where he passed away. They were arguing over a land dispute. This, however, is not a first-of-its-kind incident. Last month saw at least two such incidents.
Erstwhile MS of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Prof Dr Sachidananda Mohanty is now Executive Director of AIIMS, Kashmir.
MUMBAI
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar recently concluded his inaugural trip to Kashmir with his family, years after he retired from test cricket, expressing profound admiration for the region’s beauty. “The closest thing to heaven on earth is Kashmir,” he wrote while flying home. During their stay, they were warmly received by the natives. Beyond typical tourist activities, Tendulkar engaged in meaningful interactions, visiting a bat manufacturing unit, playing cricket with locals, and participating in the Khelo India Winter Games. His humility and passion for the sport left a lasting impact, revitalising Kashmir’s cricketing spirit and showcasing the unifying power of sports. Tendulkar’s modest demeanour, including flying economy class on a commercial flight, endeared him to fans and underscored his genuine connection with cricket enthusiasts.
A committee headed by Mirwaiz Moulvi Umar Farooq has been constituted to oversee the Ramadan crescent sighting in Jammu and Kashmir.
KASHMIR
Snowfall comes with its own issues and the top challenge is to ensure the expecting mothers reach the hospital. In Kupwara, a three-member committee is investigating an incident where a pregnant woman reportedly delivered on a roadside due to alleged negligence in snow clearance and health services. Aware of such embarrassing situations, more than 147 expectant mothers from remote areas have reportedly been relocated to nearby health facilities to mitigate winter-related risks. This initiative, coordinated through district and block-level control rooms, aimed to ensure timely medical interventions amidst challenging conditions, underscoring collaborative efforts across departments.
Five Special Courts will be formed in Jammu, Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, and Baramulla districts, for the trial of offences falling under the NDPS Act.
LADAKH
The President of India has approved a Rs 20,773.70 crore Inter-State Transmission System project for a 13 GW Renewable Energy initiative in Ladakh, benefiting Jammu and Kashmir and Northern Grid states. Led by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, the project will be completed by FY 2029-30. It entails 713 kilometres of transmission lines, HVDC terminals, and a Battery Energy Storage System. Central Financial Assistance covers 40 per cent of the cost, with the rest financed by POWERGRID. The challenging terrain necessitates special materials and technology, including avalanche-proofing. The transmission line connects Ladakh to Haryana via Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, integrating with the National Grid. The project involves tower foundation, stringing, and logistical planning, adhering to environmental considerations.
JAMMU KASHMIR
The India-Pakistan cease-fire in Jammu and Kashmir, reinstated on February 24-25, 2021, marks its third anniversary amidst political upheaval in both nations. Despite its fragility, the cease-fire has reduced cross-border firing significantly, providing a stabilising effect. However, recent upticks in violations underscore its vulnerability. Political uncertainties in Pakistan pose challenges to sustaining the cease-fire.
BONIYAR
Renowned Pahari and Urdu writer Raja Nazar Bonyari (Abdul Qayoom Khan), passed away at 77 in Mumbai due to Pneumonia. Hailing from Boniyar, Baramulla, he earned accolades for his literary contributions, spanning over a dozen books and encompassing both Pahari and Urdu literature. His career as a teacher culminated in his retirement as a headmaster in 2007. Bonyari’s literary journey began with newspaper and radio contributions, including his debut fiction work Dusra Adam, broadcasted on Radio Kashmir Srinagar in 1964. His international recognition includes a Russian translation of one of his books in 1972. Additionally, he showcased his talents as an anchor and singer on platforms like DD Kashir and Radio Kashmir Srinagar.
JAMMU
The Administrative Council, chaired by LG Manoj Sinha on February 19, 2024, approved the reconsideration of previous decisions and restored provisions for wait lists in public service recruitment. Amendments to various rules and regulations were withdrawn, allowing recruiting agencies a one-time exemption to create wait lists within six months of select list issuance. This decision aims to expedite the filling of vacancies, avoid delays, and enable candidates to secure employment timely, enhancing efficiency in recruitment processes.
CHENAB VALLEY
As the general elections loom, Jammu and Kashmir’s political arena brims with revelations from the past five years. Ghulam Nabi Azad clashed with JKNC today, alleging Farooq Abdullah and Omar’s BJP alliance attempts in 2014. Azad accused them of duplicity, citing late-night meetings and temple visits despite labelling parties as BJP affiliates. Farooq refuted Azad’s claims, questioning his motives. Omar criticised Azad’s inconsistency, highlighting his privileged treatment post-Article 370 abrogation. The spat underscores the complex dynamics of Kashmiri politics, where alliances and accusations shape the electoral landscape, leaving voters to discern truth from rhetoric.
UDHAMPUR
Risheek Kumar Sharma, a 17-year-old from Jammu and Kashmir, has become a beacon of inspiration in cyber security, earning acclaim as the Future Crime Researcher of the Year at the prestigious Future Crime Summit. Rising from humble origins, Risheek founded Jammu and Kashmir’s first cyber security company, Hackers Patsha, displaying an entrepreneurial spirit devoted to fortifying digital defences. As a cyber security trainer at the Sher-e-Kashmir Police Academy, he imparts essential skills to law enforcement professionals nationwide, receiving accolades for his comprehensive approach and expertise. Risheek’s remarkable journey and groundbreaking contributions have earned him international recognition as the world’s youngest cybersecurity entrepreneur and trainer. The Future Crime Organization lauds his exceptional achievements, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping the future of cyber security and combating emerging digital threats.
