Kashmir Story, kashmir, Srinagar (2025)

08/08/2025

DC Kishtwar finalises arrangements for Shri Krishna Janamashtami

KISHTWAR, AUGUST 08: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma chaired a meeting today in the DC Office Complex to finalise arrangements for the upcoming Shri Krishna Janamashtami and Shoba Yatra.

The meeting was attended by SSP Kishtwar Naresh Singh, district officers, and representatives from Sanatan Dharma Sabha Kishtwar.

The Deputy Commissioner directed departments to ensure adequate arrangements for security, sanitation, medical facilities, drinking water and other essential amenities.

SSP Kishtwar apprised the meeting of the elaborate security measures, including the deployment of additional security personnel along the Shoba Yatra route.

The Deputy Commissioner also emphasised the need for a traffic management plan with alternate routes for diversions to ensure a smooth passage for the procession. Authorities were instructed to repair streetlights and hotspots in the town to prevent inconvenience to the public.

PHE and PDD authorities were directed to provide uninterrupted water and electricity supply during the festival, with water tankers arranged at identified locations.

Tehsildar Kishtwar, SHO Kishtwar and EO of the Municipal Council Kishtwar were tasked with conducting market checks with enforcement teams to monitor overcharging and food quality.

The concerned authorities were also directed to clear and repair roads along the procession route. Fire and Emergency authorities were asked to remain prepared to handle any eventuality.

CMO Kishtwar was instructed to deploy an ambulance and medical staff with first aid facilities during the processions.

Representatives of religious organisations and trusts submitted details of areas requiring assistance from the district administration and police and offered suggestions for a smooth celebration of the festival.

08/08/2025

Principal Secretary Culture Deptt, Div Com review final arrangements for Tiranga rally

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 08: Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma and Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri jointly chaired a meeting of officers to finalize the arrangements regarding conduct of a massive Tiranga rally of over ten thousand participants on the boulevard road from SKICC to Botanical Garden on August 12.

Addressing the meeting, the Principal Secretary directed for installation of theme based selfie points at SKICC and Botanical Garden with QR facility for uploading the photos. He further emphasised deployment of NCC volunteers to facilitate the participants in uploading photos at selfie points. He also directed the Commissioner SMC for theme based colour coating of trunks of trees and plants along the rally route. Besides, he stressed on installation of hoardings for sensitizing the participants for honoring the national flag code.

On the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed the transport plan for participants besides reviewing the arrangements for Shikara Tiranga rally in the Dal lake. He emphasised the decoration of Shikaras with tricolour for an impressive display of fascinating views of the rally.

Meanwhile, he reviewed the arrangements for drinking water facility and electricity at the venue and issued a slew of directions to the concerned departments. He also directed the concerned departments for installation of theme based stalls and holding of exhibition at SKICC.

Further, the Div Com reviewed preparation for presentation of cultural programmes, band performances of BSF and felicitation of VVIPs and war heroes. He also directed for establishing First Aid Camps and deployment of ambulances for any medical emergency.

The event manager was directed to make elaborate arrangements for water proof tentage, seats and setting up stage and installation of LED screens.

The meeting was attended by Director Floriculture, Commissioner SMC, Secretary AACL, ADC Srinagar, officers of LCMA, SRTC, Handloom & Handicraft, PHE, KPDCL, R&B, Police, CRPF, BSF, Army besides District Sanik Welfare Officer.

08/08/2025

CS pushes for faster reforms to boost Ease of Doing Business

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 8: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting to review implementation of compliance reduction and deregulation reforms recommended by the National Task Force, headed by the Cabinet Secretary, Government of India, to ensure Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) across the country.

The meeting was attended by senior officers including Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department; Commissioner Secretary, Forest; Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce; Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development Department; Secretary, Law and Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu, among others.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary took stock of the progress on key reform areas. He directed all the departments to ensure time-bound and full compliance with the agenda set by the Task Force.

Emphasizing the urgency and importance of the exercise, he asserted that there is no scope for laxity or delays and administrative heads must regularly monitor the status of implementation to ensure that reforms are grounded effectively. He further stressed the need to upload the evidentiary proof of compliance across all priority areas without further delay, underscoring that these reforms are critical to improve the overall ease of doing business.

The Chief Secretary called for mission-mode implementation of regulatory changes. He directed the Industries & Commerce department to complete all documentation and reporting requirements promptly by assisting the departments in implementing them smoothly.

Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, informed the meeting that 434 reform points spanning various departments have already been successfully implemented. However, few specific reform points were returned by the Task Force with observations for further refinement. He assured that as the nodal department, Industries & Commerce is proactively addressing these gaps and will ensure timely compliance uploads for the pending areas in coordination with the respective Departments.

Providing further insights, Director Industries & Commerce, Jammu, Arun Kumar Manhas, outlined several key reform areas identified for immediate action. These included adoption of flexible zoning regulations in master plans to facilitate mixed land use in development projects, simplification and digitization of the Change of Land Use (CLU) process and rationalization of minimum road with norms for industrial units in rural areas

The reform points that came under discussion also spanned around amendment of building regulations to minimize the land loss in industrial and commercial plots, removal of restrictions on women working in hazardous sectors, review of working hour limits under factory laws, lifting restrictions on business hours for commercial establishments and provision for fire NOCs through third-party empanelled agencies along with few others.

These reforms, he noted, are geared towards building a robust and business-friendly industrial ecosystem in the Union Territory.

It is pertinent to mention that the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP), launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), is a flagship initiative of the Government of India which aims to simplify regulatory frameworks and enhance the ease of doing business across the country.

08/08/2025

Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan: Drug de-addiction awareness prog. held at GBHS Gupt Ganga in Brein Srinagar

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 08: As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, Cultural Unit Srinagar of the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) today organized an impactful awareness event at Government Boys High School, Gupt Ganga, Brein Srinagar.

The programme featured a thought-provoking short play by a local artist group, depicting the destructive effects of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society. The gripping performance captured the attention of students and teachers alike, fostering awareness and reflection on the urgent need to combat substance abuse.

Principal of the school appreciated the initiative, stressing the importance of preventive education in protecting youth from this growing menace.

Burhan Hussain, Cultural Officer, addressing the gathering underscored the significance of using cultural platforms like theatre to inspire behavioural change.

The event concluded with a collective pledge by all present to work towards a healthy, drug-free community.

08/08/2025

Distt admin Srinagar finalizes arrangements for Raksha Bandhan

SRINAGAR AUGUST 08: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Srinagar, Aadil Fareed on Friday visited Shankaracharya Temple to review the arrangements for the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

The festival is scheduled to be celebrated on August 09, 2025 with great religious and cultural significance.

During the visit, ADC was accompanied by Chief Planning Officer, Dy SP of Traffic, DFO Urban, Executive Engineers of PHE, City Roads, SMC, KPDCL, Tehsildar South, Chief Sanitation Officer and other concerned.

While taking review on the spot, ADC directed the concerned departments to ensure all basic arrangements are put in place for the devotees expected to visit the historical Shankaracharya Temple on the top of Zabarwan hills and other religious sites.

He assessed various arrangements including supply of water & electricity, sanitation, traffic management and other logistical aspects to ensure smooth and safe celebrations for devotees.

Aadil emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination to facilitate the devotees in a hassle-free manner and ensuring all arrangements in place well before the festival.

ADC instructed for ensuring hassle-free traffic movement for the devotees for their convenience and adequate facilities at the designated place for parking of the vehicles. He also stressed on ensuring uninterrupted supply of electricity and drinking water at the venue so that devotees may not face any inconvenience.

He asked the Health department to deploy a Medical team at the venue with the availability of all emergency medicines and first aid facilities. He also instructed the stationing of an ambulance to handle any medical emergency.

ADC emphasized the officers of the line departments to ensure all necessary arrangements required for smooth stay and enriching pilgrimage for all visitors on the occasion. He stressed on maintaining proper sanitation at the Temple premises and at the entire pilgrimage route.

On the occasion, ADC interacted with the Administrators and Security Incharge of the Temple and assured of all possible support from the district administration for seamless celebrations of the Raksha Bandhan with great participation of the devotees.

07/08/2025

Police Awantipora carried out District wide searches to curb banned literatures.

Junaid Ali

Awantipora 07Aug 2025:In compliance with the recent directive issued by the Home Department, Government of Jammu & Kashmir(UT) regarding the forfeiture of literature identified as propagating false narratives and secessionist ideologies, awantipora Police today conducted coordinated and legally monitored searches at multiple Bookshops across the Police district to prevent the circulation of Banned Literature.

The drive was undertaken to ensure strict adherence to the government order and to prevent the availability or circulation of any such literature that may promote radicalization or incite sentiments against the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

Police Awantipora remains committed to upholding peace and public order. Citizens are requested to stay away from such proscribed material and report any suspicious activity, including the circulation of banned literature, to the nearest Police station on cell Numbers:

Police station Awantipora 7051404011, Police Station Pampore 7051404012, Police Station Tral 7051404010 , Police Station Khrew 7051404013

07/08/2025

DC Budgam reviews arrangements for Independence Day celebrations

Also reviews Har Ghar Tiranga campaign

BUDGAM, AUGUST 07: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat today chaired a meeting of district officers and various security agencies to review the final preparedness for ensuing Independence Day-2025 celebrations in the district.

It was given out that the main function of the day shall be held at Sports Stadium Budgam while similar functions will be held at DC office complex, sub-division and tehsil levels also.

The meeting was informed that contingents of JKP, CRPF, NCC, students of various government schools will participate in the march past parade.

On the occasion, various committees like the hospitality committee, stage management committee, and selection committee were formed for the smooth conduct of the celebrations.

Different departments viz. Education, PHE, R&B, DYSSO, Information, Health, Sports, Traffic, Motor Vehicles, Police, Floriculture, PDD, Municipality and Paramilitary Forces were directed to look after their respective assignments.

The decoration of the main venue ground, seating arrangements, uninterrupted power supply, drinking water/tanker service, barricading of venue, medical aid camp, availability of ambulance, deployment of fire tenders, transportation facilities, adequate and separate vehicle parking, refreshment, invitations, PAS system, brochures, cleanliness and sanitation measures were discussed threadbare in the meeting. Special emphasis was laid on march past parades, cultural programmes, refreshments, transportation, mobile toilets and change room facilities for participating students.

Security agencies were instructed to ensure fool-proof security arrangements at all venues where functions in this regard will be held across the district.

Dr Bilal stressed on ensuring participation of all the employees in the celebration.

He emphasised on ensuring commitment for executing a flawless and vibrant Independence Day celebration that reflects the spirit of unity and patriotism.

On the occasion, DC also reviewed the ongoing activities under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, emphasising wide public participation, school-level engagement, and vibrant display of the National Flag across all Municipal Committees and rural areas.

DC stressed timely ex*****on, community outreach, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure the success of the campaign in its true spirit across Budgam.

He directed concerned officers to conduct awareness drives, monitor field-level activities closely, and submit daily progress reports to ensure the smooth implementation of the campaign throughout the district.

Among others, ADC, all SEs, ASP, ACR, all SDMs, CMO, CEO, ACD, ACP, all executive engineers, tehsildars, all BDOs, all EOs, other district and sectoral officers, representatives of CRPF, 62 RR were present in the meeting.

07/08/2025

CS reviews progress on Mission YUVA to boost entrepreneurship

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today had a comprehensive review of youth empowerment program, Mission YUVA (Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan), initiated in J&K with the vision of establishing the region as a thriving hub for enterprises and holistic employment.

Those who attended the meeting were ACS Higher Education; ACS Planning; Principal Secretary, Finance; Secretary L&E; Director, IIM; MD, J&K Bank; Secretary, School Education; DG, Budget and other concerned officers while the Deputy Commissioners participated virtually.

The Chief Secretary had a detailed assessment of the primary objectives of Mission YUVA aiming at generating mass employment opportunities through enterprise creation and establishing cross-sectoral business support ecosystem here. He stressed on enhancing the existing businesses to increase SGDP (State Gross Domestic Product) and create a startup ecosystem with neo-innovative enterprises. He impressed upon the Deputy Commissioners to take periodic review of the outcomes so that the mission achieves its objectives smoothly.

In his presentation, Secretary L&E Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, gave an overview of the scheme. He informed the meeting that this program aims to create over 1,37,000 new enterprises and generate more than 4,25,000 employment opportunities across various sectors.

He further gave out that, so far, the mission has received 31,411 loan applications, with 29,460 for nano-enterprises, 1,502 for new MSMEs and 443 for existing MSMEs. The total loan amount disbursed to date is Rs 29.70 crore with a total subsidy support of Rs 5.15 crore.

Regarding the updated IEC campaign Udyam Jagriti, it was revealed that panchayat-level awareness campaign has been successful with over 150,000 attendees from across all the 20 districts including 50,000 women participants. This campaign has also facilitated over 8,000 loan applications.

Moreover, it was apprised that a capacity building mela was conducted on August 2, 2025, across all 20 districts, attracting over 6,346 attendees. Additionally, a hybrid training module has been launched in ITIs and polytechnics to train the aspiring entrepreneurs.

Regarding the E-commerce and market linkages, it was given out that the mission is focused on improving the market access through creation of an e-commerce seller platform leveraging the ONDC network and organizing business conclaves and regional trade fairs to promote trade and commerce.

The Mission YUVA App and Portal have been instrumental in the mission's success, with over 50,000 downloads and 140,000 visits to the portal. A robust support system is in place, including Special Purpose Vehicles, Small Business Development Units (SBDUs), Business Help Desks (BHDs) and a network of 1,000 Yuva Doots to provide grassroots-level support to the potential entrepreneurs, the meeting was informed.

07/08/2025

Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) Launches Region-Wide Officers’ Visits for Parent-Teacher Meetings Starting August 9

DSEK Leads from the Front – Director Dr. G.N. Itoo Visits Remote Schools in Budgam, Announces Student Initiatives
Srinagar August 7, 2025:In a major initiative to strengthen school-community engagement and enhance student performance, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has announced a comprehensive region-wide officers’ visit to schools, coinciding with Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) scheduled across Kashmir on August 9, 2025.
Demonstrating leadership by example, Director School Education Kashmir Dr. G.N. Itoo today visited remote schools in the Khag zone of Budgam district, including Government Middle School Alamnag and BMS Poshkar. Dr. Itoo participated in the PTMs, held a mass parent interaction, and commended the spirit of collaboration witnessed at the grassroots level.
During the visit, the Director appreciated the remarkable presentations by students and announced special student exposure programmes. As a personal gesture of encouragement, he donated ₹5000 from his own resources to support student activities, calling upon schools across the region to emulate the same spirit of participatory education.
In a statement Dr. G.N. Itoo, Director School Education Kashmir has said that,
“Parent-Teacher Meetings are a cornerstone for educational success. Through the active involvement of our officers, we aim to make these interactions more impactful and inclusive. This initiative is our shared responsibility to uplift education standards in Kashmir,”
Officers to Monitor and Engage Across Kashmir
As per the official directive, senior officers of the Directorate—including Joint Directors (Central, North, and South Kashmir), Chief Education Officers (CEOs) of all districts, and DIET Principals—will be conducting school visits across the Valley. These officers will:
· Monitor and participate in Parent-Teacher Meetings
· Interact with students, teachers, parents, and school heads
· Address institutional issues on the spot
· Collect feedback and data to guide future educational policies
The visits will span primary, middle, high, and higher secondary schools, as well as District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs). Schools have been instructed to prepare comprehensive PTM outcome reports to be reviewed by the Directorate for assessing impact and identifying areas for improvement.
Strengthening the Parent-School Partnership
These Parent-Teacher Meetings are designed to:
· Foster open communication between parents and teachers
· Reinforce accountability and transparency in schools
· Address academic progress and behavioural development
· Promote parental involvement in academic reforms
· Provide field officers with real-time insights on curriculum and infrastructure
Call for Public Participation
The Directorate has issued instructions to all field-level education officers for seamless coordination, and has informed the School Education Department, Civil Secretariat J&K about the initiative.
All parents and guardians are urged to attend the PTMs on August 9, 2025, and play a proactive role in shaping the educational journey of their children. Schools have been asked to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment to encourage maximum participation.

07/08/2025

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah attends National Tribal Festival at Gurez

Expansion of tourism will create employment opportunities, especially for youth of Gurez: CM

GUREZ, AUGUST 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the development and upliftment of Gurez and its people. Speaking at the valedictory function of the two-day National Tribal Festival Gurez-2025 held at the picturesque border village of Chorwan in Gurez, the Chief Minister assured residents that Gurez remains high on his government’s priority list.

He lauded the peace-loving nature of the people of Gurez, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to peace even in challenging times. “Gurez has always stood as a symbol of resilience and harmony. My government recognises this spirit and is determined to ensure that the region progresses in all spheres,” he said.

Emphasising the need for improved connectivity, the Chief Minister assured the people that efforts are underway to provide mobile network coverage to keep Gurez connected with the rest of the country.

Highlighting the tourism potential of Gurez valley, the Chief Minister urged the residents to work together to keep Gurez clean and pollution-free. “Gurez is blessed with immense natural beauty, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve it for future generations. While we want development and progress for the region, it must be balanced with safeguarding its heritage, culture and traditions,” he said.

The Chief Minister noted that the expansion of tourism will create employment opportunities, especially for the youth of Gurez.

Earlier, the Chief Minister toured various stalls showcasing local produce, herbs, traditional foods, and handicrafts. Tribal dance performances by cultural troupes from Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat added colour and diversity to the celebrations.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also distributed appreciation certificates to women-led Self Help Groups for their entrepreneurial efforts.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi; MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq; Additional Secretary, Tribal Affairs (Government of India); Secretary, Tribal Affairs (J&K); and Director, Tribal Affairs also spoke on the occasion.

Later, he also inaugurated and witnessed a polo match and flagged off a trekking group from Gurez, promoting the region’s potential for adventure tourism. Additionally, he planted saplings at the Tourist Reception Centre in Gurez as part of a green initiative.

Earlier in the morning, the Chief Minister held a grievance redressal camp at Wampora, Dawar, where residents from various areas including Chorwan, Kanzalwan, Tulail, Markote, and Bagtore raised issues concerning road and mobile connectivity, upgradation of educational institutions, banking facilities, ATM services, community bunkers, and employment opportunities. The Chief Minister patiently listened to all grievances and assured timely redressal.

He said that since the time of Sher-e-Kashmir, has remained committed to delivering justice to the people of Gurez. “We understand the hardships faced by the people of this region. Our government has empathy and commitment to address these concerns,” he remarked.

07/08/2025

Budgam celebrates ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ with district-wide patriotic fervour

BUDGAM, AUGUST 07: A series of vibrant activities and events continued today across Budgam district under the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, being observed as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav with enthusiastic participation from educational institutions, municipal bodies, and local communities.

At PM SHRI HSS Kandoora Beerwah, students showcased their talent in essay writing and painting competitions, expressing their patriotism through words and art. Similarly, PM SHRI GHSS Dagger organised a spirited Tiranga rally, where students marched with national flags, echoing the message of unity.

Also to commemorate the event, students at HSS Khansahib participated in a range of engaging activities including cultural performances, speeches, and thematic exhibitions. At HSS Khag, colourful rangoli designs were created by students, reflecting both creativity and devotion to the national cause.

A special highlight came from Ishtiaque Memorial Government Girls Middle School, Drang (Zone Khag) where students prepared a beautiful Thread Work Tiranga as a tribute to the nation. GDC Magam hosted a day-long programme featuring painting, wall painting, and rangoli competitions, with active involvement of students and faculty members.

The Municipal Committee Chadoora conducted a successful Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra, bringing together officials and citizens in a collective celebration of national pride. Tiranga rallies were held across several wards by the Municipal Council Budgam, promoting mass awareness and public participation.

As part of the campaign, all the major government buildings were illuminated in the colours of the national flag, becoming visual symbols of patriotic spirit during evening hours. Throughout the district, government buildings, institutions, and private homes proudly hoisted the Tricolour, turning Budgam into a living representation of unity and pride

07/08/2025

Dubai Businessman Alleges ₹5 Crore Fraud by Srinagar-Based Trader

Srinagar, August 7: A Dubai-based businessman, Anil Bhagwandas Karamchandani, on Thursday held a press conference to expose what he called a shocking case of financial fraud involving a Srinagar-based businessman who allegedly cheated him of ₹5 Crores under the guise of a property deal in Dubai.

Karamchandani, a Mumbai based entrepreneur residing in the UAE, alleged that he was lured into the scam by Mukhtar Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Rasool Dar, who operates under the banner of “FM Group” at Humhama in Budgam. According to Karamchandani, Mukhtar posed as a politician and philanthropist and presented himself as a man of great influence and wealth.

"In 2025, Mukhtar Ahmad offered me a supermarket property in Dubai while claiming his own commercial building was under construction. Believing him, I transferred ₹5 Crores as an advance. However, after sometime, I was shocked to discover that he had sold the same property to someone else and returned to Srinagar," Karamchandani said.

He added that after receiving the money, Mukhtar made repeated excuses and failed to hand over the promised property. “He said the developer was unavailable, then promised to refund the money, and later blocked me altogether,” Karamchandani said.

The Dubai-based businessman while addressing a press conference in Srinagar said he managed to track Mukhtar down in Humhama, where the accused allegedly claimed his money was in Dubai and would be returned soon. “Later, he left for Singapore. I have learned that he is planning to settle there permanently since his son has secured admission in a school in Singapore.”

Karamchandani as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust stated that the press conference was convened to present evidence and voice notes in which the accused can be heard admitting that he took the money and promised to return it. These recordings were played during the presser.

He said Mukhtar Ahmad had even contested elections in Jammu and Kashmir using the banner of a political party and claimed to be constructing a ₹100 crore hotel project near Srinagar International Airport.

“This man has cheated me and others. He is a serial con artist who is tarnishing the image of the business community in Kashmir,” said Karamchandani, who expressed deep disappointment over the betrayal and vowed to pursue legal action. “I want justice. I will approach the authorities and demand action. I am not the only victim; many have suffered at his hands.”

Calling upon the administration and law enforcement agencies to act, Karamchandani urged them to investigate the matter seriously and prevent others from falling prey to such fraudulent individuals. [KNT]

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