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Kashmir Tribune Desk, Srinagar (2026)

13/03/2026

J&K Cabinet to Meet Today; Allowances for Ministers, MLAs Likely to Be Enhanced

Cabinet likely to approve 18% fare hike for passenger vehicles, fix e-auto, e-rickshaw charges, create 136 faculty posts in GMCs of Jammu and Srinagar, and consider key administrative promotions

Jammu, Mar 13 (KNC): The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is scheduled to meet on Friday at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, where several key proposals including enhancement of allowances for Ministers, MLAs, Presiding Officers and the Leader of Opposition are expected to be discussed and cleared.

Sources told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC that the meeting, scheduled for 2:30 PM on Friday, will deliberate on amendments to various rules governing the travelling allowance (TA), daily allowance (DA), medical benefits and other facilities for legislators and ministers.

The proposed amendments include changes in TA Rules, Ministers and Ministers of State (Motor Car Advance and Allowances) Rules, Housing Loan Rules, and Leader of Opposition Allowances and Medical Facilities Rules. If approved and subsequently cleared by the Lieutenant Governor, the amendments will result in enhanced allowances including medical allowance for the Leader of Opposition, daily allowances, motor car advances for ministers and improved TA and medical benefits for MLAs. Sources said the Finance Department has already given concurrence to the proposal.

The Cabinet is also likely to take up a proposal to revise passenger transport fares across the Union Territory.

According to sources, the Transport Department has recommended an 18 percent hike in fares for all categories of commercial passenger vehicles. The department has also proposed fixation of charges for electric autos and e-rickshaws, suggesting a rate of ₹15 per kilometre for e-rickshaws and ₹25 for the first kilometre and ₹20 for subsequent kilometres for e-autos. Officials said transport associations had demanded a 35 to

12/03/2026

PM Modi discusses West Asia tensions with Iranian President, stresses safety of Indians

New Delhi, Mar 12 (KNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian amid escalating tensions in West Asia, emphasising the need to protect civilians and ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region.

In a post on X, PM Modi as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) expressed concern over the rising hostilities and the damage caused to civilian infrastructure.

He reiterated that the unhindered movement of goods and energy supplies remains a top priority for India.

The Prime Minister pushed for a return to dialogue and diplomacy to restore stability.

Notably, The discussion comes amid growing international concern over the conflict's potential to disrupt global trade and energy security. (KNS)

12/03/2026

Ehsaas Foundation, revive aesthetics hold free tattoo removal camp in Srinagar

Srinagar, Mar 12 (KNO): A week-long free tattoo removal camp organized by Ehsaas Foundation in collaboration with Revive Aesthetics concluded successfully on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan Kareem, bringing relief and renewed confidence to dozens of people in the community.

In a statement to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson said that during the camp, more than 70 individuals received free tattoo removal treatments.

“The initiative aimed to support people who wished to remove tattoos and begin a fresh chapter in their lives, especially during the spiritually significant time of Ramadan,” the spokesperson added.

Speaking on the occasion, Uznain Fayaz, Founder of Revive Aesthetics, said this was their first free tattoo removal camp and expressed gratitude to Ehsaas Foundation for the opportunity.

“This was our first free tattoo removal camp. We are thankful to Ehsaas Foundation for giving us the chance to serve society during this blessed month of Ramadan and contribute in a meaningful way,” he said.

The spokesperson further said that members of Ehsaas Foundation appreciated the public response, noting that the camp reflected the spirit of compassion and service that Ramadan inspires.

“The organizers also hope to conduct more such community-focused initiatives in the future, encouraging people to participate and benefit from similar welfare programs,” the spokesperson added—(KNO)

12/03/2026

Badamwari gardeners seek permanent status after years of service

Casual workers maintain Srinagar’s historic 350-kanal garden; demand regularisation

Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar,Mar 12 (KNO): Nestled at the foothills of Hari Parbat in Srinagar’s old city, the Badamwari Garden, spreading over more than 350 kanals, is maintained largely by casual labourers who are now seeking permanent status for their years of service.

Located near Kathi Darwaza in Rainawari, just five kilometres from Srinagar city centre, the garden is famous for its sprawling almond trees that bloom every spring, drawing thousands of visitors.

Despite its cultural and historical significance, the majority of the roughly 30-40 gardeners employed here are casual labourers. Only seven to eight are permanent staff.

The gardeners, who have worked at the garden for several years, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that they work every day, tending to the lawns, almond trees and flower beds, especially during the bloom season when thousands visit. Yet most of them remain casual workers, with no job security or benefits.

“We only ask to be recognised for our work with permanent positions," one of the gardeners, wishing anonymity, said.

He added that casual labourers perform the same responsibilities as permanent staff, including cleaning, pruning and preparing the garden for visitors, but their temporary status leaves them uncertain about their future.

“We have been serving Badamwari Garden for years. It is our livelihood and our pride. Permanent employment would give us dignity and security,” another gardener said.

Visitors and locals also say the gardeners’ work ensures that the historic park remains vibrant and well-kept.

“Badamwari is not just a garden, but a part of Srinagar’s heritage. Those who maintain it deserve recognition and permanent jobs,” said a local.

Importantly, located at the backdrop of Hari Parbat (Koh-e-Maraan), Badamwari Garden features hundreds of almond trees

12/03/2026

Around 1,000 devotees observe Etikaf at Dar-ul-Uloom Raheemiya

Volunteers manage food, accommodation, daily arrangements

Sajid Raina

Srinagar,Mar 12 (KNO): Around 1,000 worshippers have gathered at Dar-ul-Uloom Raheemiya in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district to observe Etikaf during the holy month of Ramadan.

The seminary, considered one of the largest Islamic institutions in the region, has been hosting large Etikaf gatherings for years, attracting participants from different parts of the Valley and other states.

Etikaf is a spiritual practice in which worshippers remain in a mosque or a designated religious space for the last ten days of Ramadan, dedicating their time to prayers, recitation of the Quran and reflection.

The seminary’s management informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that elaborate arrangements have been made to accommodate the large number of participants observing Etikaf.

Volunteers prepare nearly 230 plates of food for every Sehri and Iftar, with each plate serving about four people, ensuring that all the participants receive meals on time.

Local volunteers, known as khadims, assist in the arrangements by preparing meals, maintaining cleanliness and helping manage the large gathering.

Several residents from nearby areas also participate in the arrangements, supporting the seminary in organising the event smoothly.

One of the volunteers said serving those observing Etikaf is considered a privilege, and many locals dedicate their time to ensure the comfort of the worshippers.

The seminary follows a structured routine during the ten days, with congregational prayers, Quranic recitation and religious discussions forming a major part of the schedule.

The gathering also draws people seeking a spiritual retreat during Ramadan, with participants spending most of their time in prayer and reflection inside the seminary premises—(KNO)

12/03/2026

Erratic weather likely in J&K till March 20; rain, snow forecast: MeT

Sajid Raina

Srinagar,Mar 12 (KNO): The India Meteorological Department on Wednesday said erratic weather conditions are likely to continue in Jammu and Kashmir till March 20, with intermittent spells of rain in plains and snowfall in higher reaches expected over the coming days.

According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, the weather on March 12 is expected to remain partly cloudy with the possibility of brief spells of light rain in plains and light snowfall in higher reaches at a few places.

The department said generally dry weather is likely to prevail across the Union Territory on March 13 and 14.

“Generally cloudy weather with a spell of light to moderate rain in plains and snowfall in higher reaches is expected towards the night of March 15 and morning of March 16 at scattered to many places,” the MeT department told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).

It said the weather is likely to remain generally cloudy on March 17 and 18, with the possibility of brief spells of light rain or snowfall in isolated areas towards the night of March 17 and morning of March 18.

For March 19 and 20, the MeT department has forecast generally cloudy conditions with the possibility of light to moderate rain in the plains and snowfall in the higher reaches at scattered to many places.

The department said weather conditions are likely to remain generally dry between March 21 and 23.

Meanwhile, the MeT department said Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 12.5 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 7.9 degrees Celsius over the past 24 hours, while Qazigund registered a high of 18.6 degrees Celsius and a low of 6.6 degrees Celsius.

In north Kashmir’s Kupwara, the maximum temperature settled at 10.2 degrees Celsius and the minimum at 4.5 degrees Celsius, while tourist resort Gulmarg recorded a high of 5.4 degrees Celsius and a low of 1.4 degrees Celsius.

12/03/2026

Attack on Dr Farooq matter of grave concern, accused will be thoroughly investigated: Nadda in Rajya Sabha

Says Govt committed to safety of every citizen; politicising incident not right

Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar/New Delhi,Mar 12 (KNO): Union Health Minister and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha Jagat Prakash Nadda on Thursday condemned the assassination attempt attack on National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, describing it as a “matter of grave concern” and assuring that a thorough investigation will be carried out.

Addressing the Upper House of Parliament, Nadda as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the Government of India is taking the incident very seriously and that the accused, who has already been taken into custody, will be investigated in detail.

“The incident that took place last night involving senior leader of Jammu and Kashmir and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah is a matter of great concern. The government is serious about this matter,” Nadda said.

He said that authorities will examine all aspects of the case, including the intentions and possible plans of the accused, so that such incidents do not occur again in the future.

“The accused has been arrested and his plans and motives will be investigated thoroughly. Necessary enquiries will be completed and appropriate action will be taken,” he said.

Nadda also stressed that the safety of citizens, including senior political leaders, remains a priority for the government.

“The Government of India is concerned about the life and safety of every citizen. As far as the security of Farooq Abdullah is concerned, all necessary investigations and measures will certainly be taken,” he said.

The BJP leader also cautioned against politicising the incident, saying that giving the issue a political angle would be inappropriate.

“It is not right to look at everything from a political point of view and give it a political angle,” he

12/03/2026

Anti-peace elements will find no place to hide in J&K: LG Sinha

‘Our duty is to honour, preserve peace won by our brave hearts’

Yogesh

Jammu,Mar 12 (KNO): Warning anti-peace elements of dire consequences, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that those who seek to destroy the peace in Jammu and Kashmir will find no place to hide.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of 2nd All India Police Kabaddi Cluster 2025-26 (Men & Women) at MA Stadium here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Those who seek to destroy peace will find no place to hide. We will hunt you down from the deepest depths.”

“The peace we enjoy today, the peace that lets families gather, athletes compete, and communities thrive, did not come without a price,” he said, adding, “This peace was secured through the sacrifices of the J&K Police, the Army, and the CAPFs. Thousands of police personnel, soldiers, and CAPF bravehearts gave their lives protecting the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Our duty is not just to remember them, but to ensure their sacrifice endures, preserving the peace they won.”

The Lieutenant Governor felicitated the sportspersons from State Police Forces and CAPFs participated in different sports disciplines including Kabaddi, Gymnastics, Fencing and Kho-Kho. He said the discipline, and determination displayed by the participants truly reflect the core values of policing.

“Sports have always bridged divides through their unmatched reliability. Language, geography, social status, rank, and authority fade away on the field. There, only courage and resolve matter. The sports ground binds us in a shared humanity.

This is an education possible only on the ground, and it has the power to shape the character of the young generation. Such sporting events carry another vital lesson: lasting public security, peace and prosperity is strengthened from trust and values,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Lauding Jammu Kashmir Police, the Lieuten

12/03/2026

Avalanche Alert Issued in Ganderbal; Public Advised to Avoid Higher Reaches

Touseef Wani

Ganderbal,Mar 12 (KNC): The District Administration Ganderbal on Thursday issued an advisory for the general public following an avalanche forecast indicating medium intensity above 2450 meters in the district for the next 24 hours.

According to an advisory issued by the Deputy Commissioner/District Magistrate Ganderbal, who is also the Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), a copy of which lies with news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, people have been urged to remain highly vigilant in view of the forecast.

The administration has strictly advised residents, tourists and nomadic communities to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone areas, including slopes, hilly terrain and higher reaches, until further orders are issued.

The public has also been asked to follow official advisories and cooperate with the administration in the interest of safety. In case of any emergency, people can contact the 24×7 District Emergency Control Room at DC Office Ganderbal on 0194-2416260, 0194-2416261 or 8493868773. (KNC)

12/03/2026

Assassination Attempt:LG Sinha rings Dr Farooq, assures him thorough probe

‘Have told DGP leave no stone unturned in getting to bottom of incident’

Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar,Mar 12 (KNO): A day after former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah survived an assassination attempt in Jammu, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday assured him (Dr Farooq) that thorough probe would be conducted into the incident.

Sources told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that LG Sinha spoke to the National Conference President this morning and assured him that all the angles will be probed.

The Lieutenant Governor is understood to have told Dr Farooq that “J&K Director General of Police has been asked to leave no stone unturned in getting to the bottom of the incident and to ensure that action followed swiftly.”

Sources said that senior officials have been instructed to guarantee watertight security to protectees.

Pertinently, Dr Farooq Abdullah survived an assassination attempt at a wedding function in Jammu last night. A man carrying a loaded pistol managed to reach point-blank range and fire a shot. However, the alertness and swift action of the security personnel prevented the assailant from succeeding.

The close protection team of the veteran leader successfully deflected a shot fired at close range by the attacker. The attacker was identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal. He was overpowered by the security personnel and handed over to Police.

While talking to reporters in Jammu Dr Farooq said, “I survived an assassination attempt at a wedding function in Jammu last night by the grace of God, thanking his security personnel and colleagues for saving him from harm.”

Recounting the sequence of events he said, “I had gone to a wedding. When the bride arrived, we took permission from her and left the hall. As soon as I came out and was walking, I heard a sound like a cracker.”

He said, “I thought someone had burst a firecracker because that often happens

12/03/2026

J&K Govt Fixes 7.1% Interest Rate on General Provident Fund for Q4 of FY 2025–26

Srinagar,Mar 12 (KNC): The Jammu and Kashmir Government has fixed the interest rate on General Provident Fund (GPF) at 7.1 percent for the fourth quarter of the financial year 2025–26.

According to Government Order No. 97-F of 2026, issued by the Finance Department (Codes Division), a copy of which lies with news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, the accumulations at the credit of GPF subscribers will carry 7.1 percent interest for the period from January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026.

The order reads, "Pursuant to the Notification F.No. 5(3)-B (PD)/2023 dated 09-01-2026 issued by Government of India, Ministry of Finance, Department of Economic Affairs, it is hereby ordered that the accumulations at the credit of subscribers to General Provident Fund shall carry interest at the rate 7.1% (Seven point One percent) for 4th quarter of the financial year 2025-26 i.e. 1st January, 2026 to 31st March, 2026. (KNC)

12/03/2026

Kashmir University Postpones All Exams, Campuses to Remain Closed on March 13

Srinagar, Mar 12 (KNC): The University of Kashmir on Thursday announced the postponement of all examinations scheduled for March 13, 2026, in view of the holiday on account of Jumat-ul-Vida.

According to a notice issued by the Office of the Controller of Examinations, a copy of which lies with news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, all university examinations slated for tomorrow stand postponed. The notice further stated that fresh dates for the postponed examinations will be notified separately.

Meanwhile, the Registrar of the University of Kashmir also issued an order stating that all campuses of the university will remain closed on March 13 (Friday) in compliance with Government Order No. 323-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated March 12, 2026, regarding the observance of the Jumat-ul-Vida holiday.

However, the order said that the university will remain functional on March 14 (Saturday) and all teaching as well as administrative activities will continue as per routine. (KNC)

Kashmir Tribune Desk

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