The Muslim Kashmir, Polo View Lal Chowk, Srinagar (2026)

12/08/2026

Lieutenant Governor Joins Tiranga Yatra, Says 21st Century Belongs to Bharat

Tiranga is the living embodiment of India’s consciousness and pride: LG

On this sacred soil, the Tricolour is flying high as India's living conscience and Vande Mataram echoes as its immortal voice. It embodies our shared strength, unity, and unwavering patriotism: LG Sinha

When the Tiranga flutters simultaneously on millions of homes, 140 crore Indians’ hearts beat as one in a single sentiment, a single faith, a single resolve. Today, Tiranga Yatra has evolved into a festival of people’s consciousness, a tradition of patriotism, and a cultural value binding every citizen to the motherland: LG

The remarkable participation of people of Jammu Kashmir in Har Ghar Tiranga and Vande Mataram campaign has become a source of inspiration for the entire nation: LG Sinha

Tiranga is the soul of our nation and ‘Vande Mataram’ is the immortal voice of that soul: LG

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 12: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha participated in the Tiranga Yatra today, leading a momentous celebration of national pride in Srinagar. Following the Yatra, he addressed the citizens, reaffirming the immortal spirit of India’s unity and the indomitable courage of its people. The event marked the confluence of two monumental celebrations, the mass movement of Har Ghar Tiranga and the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram.

The Lieutenant Governor said that the Tiranga is the living embodiment of India’s consciousness and pride. He emphasized that the Tiranga Yatra in the Kashmir Valley sends a clear message that India must never stop and always move forward.

“In 2022, when the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign was launched under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, its purpose was to rekindle in every Indian’s heart a sense of closeness, respect, and emotional connection toward the tricolour. When the Tiranga flutters simultaneously on millions of homes, 140 crore Indians’ hearts beat as one in a single sentiment, a single faith, a single resolve. Today, Tiranga Yatra has evolved into a festival of people’s consciousness, a tradition of patriotism, and a cultural value binding every citizen to the motherland,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the people of Jammu Kashmir for their remarkable participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga and Vande Mataram campaigns. He noted that their enthusiasm has become a source of inspiration for the entire nation. He said the Tiranga is the soul of our nation and ‘Vande Mataram’ is the immortal voice of that soul.

The Lieutenant Governor urged citizens to reflect on their contribution to building the India envisioned by the nation’s forefathers. He emphasized that while martyrs defended the nation with their blood, today’s generation must defend it with character, honesty, hard work, unity, and service.

He said that the confluence of Har Ghar Tiranga and Vande Mataram is not merely the meeting of two campaigns but the announcement of a new era.

“This is the symbol of a Jammu Kashmir filled with self-confidence and marching firmly toward the future where “Vijayi Vishwa Tiranga Pyara” is a life’s resolve in every citizen’s heart, where every home is a centre of patriotism and where every heart beats in rhythm with the pulse of national unity,” he said.

On this historic occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the people to take collective and personal responsibility for shaping Jammu Kashmir's and India’s future. He urged the people to ensure that the Tiranga will not only fly high at every home but also in our thoughts, our character, and our actions.

“Let us resolve that the sacred spirit of “Vande Mataram” will reflect in every action, every decision, and the discharge of every responsibility. We should take a pledge to repay the debt of our immortal heroes’ sacrifices by building a nation that is prosperous, secure, just, and opens doors of equal opportunity for every citizen. We should work together to realize the vision of a Jammu Kashmir where the three colours of the Tiranga are visible in the values of life. We should build a Jammu Kashmir that is economically strong and takes unbroken pride in Indian culture, civilization, and spiritual values. The future is ours. This century belongs to India. This is the era of India’s self-confidence, its courage, and its immortal national consciousness," the Lieutenant Governor said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor honoured Veer Naris and War Heroes. He also inaugurated the Har Ghar Tiranga Exhibition and felicitated the nodal officers of the Vande Mataram campaign.

The celebrations also featured the screening of a special documentary by the Department of Culture, followed by Tiranga concert where artists paid a musical tribute to the nation’s bravehearts.

Shri Justice Rahul Bharti; Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Surinder Kumar Choudhary; Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Shri Javed Ahmed Rana; Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election, Shri Javid Ahmad Dar; Advisor to Chief Minister, Shri Nasir Aslam Wani; Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board, Dr Darakhshan Andrabi; Chief Secretary, Shri Atal Dulloo; DGP, Shri Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, Shri Shaleen Kabra; Principal Secretary Culture, Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, people from all walks of life, senior officials of Civil Administration, Police and Security forces, and youth in large number joined the Tiranga Yatra.

12/08/2026

Keep the Spirit of Tiranga High in Thoughts, Character and Actions: LG Sinha

11/08/2026

Sakeena Itoo inaugurates new GDC Katra building, assures enhanced facilities for students

REASI, AUGUST 11: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today inaugurated the newly constructed building of Government Degree College Katra at Kakryal, marking a significant step towards strengthening the higher education infrastructure.

The college building was constructed by the J&K Housing Board at a cost of ₹12.92 lakh.

MLA Katra Baldev Raj Sharma, Director Colleges Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Health Services Jammu, Principal of the college, faculty members, students and local residents were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister congratulated the students, faculty members and people of Katra on completion of the new college building. She said that the new facility would provide better infrastructure and quality education to students who were earlier studying in a makeshift arrangement. She credited Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for releasing the necessary funds for the project and appreciated the efforts of the executing agencies, engineers and all other stakeholders involved in completing the building.

Sakeena Itoo announced that a college bus would be sanctioned soon to facilitate the students commuting from distant areas. She also assured that the Commerce stream would be introduced at the college, subject to sufficient student demand. Addressing other demands, she directed the Director Health Services to initiate the process for relocation of Katra Hospital to the Irrigation Department’s land and building, subject to the requisite NOC, and assured efforts to provide a fully equipped 108 ambulance for the area.

The Minister highlighted the government’s focus on introducing demand-driven courses in higher educational institutions. She informed that the students belonging to BPL and AAY categories are eligible for fee-waiver benefits for higher education. She urged the local representatives, community leaders, parents and students to encourage greater enrolment in colleges and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensure that no student in Jammu and Kashmir is deprived of higher education opportunities.

She also appreciated the role played by MLA Katra Baldev Raj Sharma in pursuing the construction and completion of the college building. She said that the collective efforts of the government, elected representatives, executing agencies and engineers had made the project a reality.

MLA Katra Baldev Raj Sharma also addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to the Government and concerned departments for completing the college building.

In her welcome address, Principal Dr. Rajni Bhagat presented a detailed report highlighting the achievements, academic progress and developmental journey of Government Degree College Katra.

Earlier, Sakeena Itoo planted a sapling in the college premises, symbolizing the commitment towards environmental conservation and a greener future.

11/08/2026

Gurezi chairs Committee on Estimates meet, reviews key issues on forest conservation, community rights, infrastructure in J&K

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 11: Committee on Estimates of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today met under the chairmanship of Chairman, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), to examine the Action Taken report submitted by Forest, Ecology & Environment Department on key issues related to forest conservation, community rights and infrastructure in J&K.

The meeting was attended by Members of Estimates Committee including Balwant Singh Mankotia, Ali Mohammad Dar, Javid Hassan Baig, Mushtaq Guroo, Irshad Rasool Kar, Sajad Shaheen and Pyare Lal Sharma.

After reviewing the department’s replies, Chairman said “For us, forests are not just trees. They are the lungs of J&K, the livelihood of our people, and the legacy we leave for our children. We cannot afford to treat this as routine file work.

The Chairman directed the department to expedite the re-plantation drive on land diverted for National Highways, PMGSY, PWD and NHAI projects. He stressed that a massive plantation drive must also be launched in all deforested areas across J&K. Taking serious note of tree felling leading to soil erosion and landslides during rains, he asked the department to undertake scientific afforestation on vulnerable slopes to safeguard lives and property.

Expressing serious concern over the menace of Russian Poplar Gurezi said it is damaging local biodiversity and causing health issues for people. He directed that Russian Poplar be phased out in a time-bound manner and replaced with indigenous species like Chinar, Deodar and Kail.

Reiterating community rights, the Chairman stated that “J&K’s timber and forest wealth belongs to the people of J&K. He directed the department to ensure sustainable utilization of forest resources, stop illegal smuggling of poplar, deodar and pine, and ensure that benefits reach local communities and tribal families under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

The Committee also reviewed the condition of deteriorated trees in major tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Yusmarg and directed the department for immediate re-plantation. It further asked for strengthened measures to contain poaching and man-animal conflict.

Highlighting the importance of public participation, the Chairman issued directions for holding of Gram Sabhas in all constituencies across J&K. He asked the Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment to finalize comprehensive guidelines for conducting Gram Sabhas at the Panchayat level to ensure people’s direct involvement in forest conservation, protection and sustainable utilization of resources.

Commissioner Secretary Forest Ecology & Environment, Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner Secretary Tribal Affairs, G. Prasanna Ramaswamy, PCCF HoFF Forest Department, Chairman JK PCC, PCCF Wild life Department, MD JKFDCL, VC LCMA, Chief Engineer R&B South Kashmir, Chief Engineer PHE Jammu, Chief Engineer I&FC Kashmir, CCF Kashmir, SEs of R&B and senior officers from R&B, PMGSY, PWD and PHE Departments besides Secretary JKLA Manoj Kumar Pandita and officers of the Assembly Secretariat were also present in the meeting.

11/08/2026

Div Com reviews final Arrangements for Mega Tiranga Yatra at SKICC

Over 20,000 participants expected; cyclists, skaters and shikara wallas to be part of rally

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 11: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg today chaired a comprehensive meeting of senior officers to review and finalize arrangements for the successful conduct of the Mega Tiranga Yatra scheduled to be held on August 12.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation Faz L*l Haseeb, DIG Police, besides senior officers from Floriculture, Culture, School Education, Higher Education, Hospitality & Protocol, Health, Horticulture, Education, I&FC, Information, LCMA, R&B, Police, CRPF, BSF, Youth Services & Sports, Zila Sainik Welfare, Traffic and Transport departments, among other concerned agencies.

During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed final arrangements related to transportation, refreshment distribution, security, frisking and other essential facilities for participants to ensure hassle-free entry.

He directed all participating departments and participants to ensure their arrival at the venue well before the commencement of the programme. He further directed that Tricolour flags and caps be distributed among participants sufficiently in advance of the rally.

The Divisional Commissioner reiterated the importance of strict adherence to the prescribed protocol for the National Flag throughout the event. He also directed the concerned authorities to nominate separate anchors for the flag-off programme at SKICC and the main event at the Botanical Garden.

More than 20,000 participants are expected to take part in the Mega Tiranga Rally. The rally will also feature cyclists, skaters and shikara wallas, adding vibrancy and visual appeal to the celebrations.

Later, Principal Secretary Culture and Divisional Commissioner Kashmir jointly inspected the venues at the SKICC back lawns and at the Botanical Garden.

The officers conducted extensive inspection at the Botanical Garden, where the Tiranga Yatra will culminate and a series of programmes will also be organized.

The Divisional Commissioner directed all concerned departments to ensure that all arrangements are completed by evening for the successful and dignified conduct of the Mega Tiranga Rally.

11/08/2026

Cultural Unit, Field Publicity Unit of DIPR organise ‘Jashn-e-Azadi’ Programmes at GGHSS Kothi Bagh and Zadibal

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 11: The Cultural Unit and Field Publicity Unit of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) organised vibrant Jashn-e-Azadi programmes at Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS), Kothi Bagh, and GGHSS Zadibal, as part of the celebrations commemorating the 80th Independence Day.

At GGHSS Kothi Bagh, the highlight of the programme was a patriotic singing competition in which students enthusiastically participated and presented soulful solo and group performances. Through their melodious renditions of patriotic songs, the students expressed their love for the nation and celebrated the spirit of freedom, unity and national pride.

The programme was presided over by Deputy Director Information, Zubair Ahmed Lattoo. Cultural Officer Abdul Raqib Bhat, Field Publicity Officer Shabir Ahmad and Assistant Exhibition and Cultural Officer Syed Shakeel Shan were also present. Principal GGHSS Kothi Bagh, Dr. Sameena Wani, along with teachers and students, attended the programme.

The participating students were accompanied by ace musicians Imtiyaz Malik, Nayeem Naqash and Wahid Ali, whose musical accompaniment added vibrancy to the performances.

A similar Jashn-e-Azadi programme was also organised by the Cultural Unit Kashmir at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Zadibal, where students participated enthusiastically in patriotic singing and presented solo and group performances. The programme provided students with a creative platform to express their patriotic sentiments and celebrate the 80th Independence Day through music and cultural expression.

Speaking on the occasion, officers of DIPR emphasised the important role of cultural activities in nurturing patriotism, strengthening national spirit and providing young people with meaningful platforms to showcase their creative talent. They said that such initiatives help inculcate the values of unity, harmony, national pride and responsible citizenship among the younger generation.

Principal Dr. Sameena Wani expressed gratitude to DIPR for organising the programme at the institution and appreciated the department’s efforts to engage students through meaningful cultural activities. She said such initiatives not only provide students an opportunity to showcase their talent but also foster a deeper sense of patriotism and national belonging.

Participating students, judges, accompanying musicians and Principal Dr. Sameena Wani were felicitated on the occasion in recognition of their participation and contribution to the successful conduct of the programme.

The programmes concluded on a patriotic note, with students and participants reaffirming their commitment to the ideals of the nation and the spirit of the 80th Independence Day celebrations.

11/08/2026

Govt sets out framework for simultaneous protection of forests, tribal rights; mandates strict compliance with Forest Rights Act, 2006: Javed Rana

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced a slew of measures to ensure a balanced approach towards protection, conservation and sustainable management of forest resources while ensuring recognition and settlement of the legitimate rights of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers in accordance with the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

The government has issued detailed guidelines through circular number 07-JK(FST) of 2026 by the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, directing all the concerned departments and authorities to ensure strict compliance with the applicable statutory provisions and prescribed procedures.

The circular mandates that all action related to forest land, encroachment and forest rights shall strictly conform to the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), as applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, the rules made thereunder, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and the applicable environmental laws, judicial directions and instructions issued by the competent authorities from time to time.

Noting that issues concerning the protection of forest areas, forest cover and land along with the rights of communities traditionally dependent on forests have repeatedly arisen, the government stressed the need to balance forest conservation with the recognition of legitimate forest rights in accordance with applicable statutory provisions.

It has been reiterated that all action related to forest land, encroachment and forest rights strictly conform to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and applicable environmental laws, so that forest conservation is not compromised while legitimate claims of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers are settled as per the prescribed statutory framework.

As part of the decision, the Government has directed that wherever occupation of forest land is reported or comes to notice, the concerned Forest authorities shall undertake proper verification of the land status and classification, relevant forest and revenue records, nature and extent of occupation, period of occupation and other relevant facts and evidence concerning the claimant, including the nature and extent of any claim made under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

Wherever necessary, forest and revenue records shall be reconciled and the area properly demarcated to prevent erroneous identification of land, overlapping claims and unauthorized occupation. Such verification, reconciliation or demarcation shall, however, be undertaken without prejudice to any claim pending under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

The Government has further directed that where occupation is found to be unauthorized and is not covered by a forest right duly recognized under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 or otherwise protected under applicable law, the concerned Forest authorities shall initiate appropriate action for prevention or removal of such occupation strictly in accordance with the Indian Forest Act, 1927, as applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, other applicable laws and the prescribed procedure, with due regard to Section 4(5) of the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

“Pending determination of any claim under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the existing forest character and ecological integrity of the area shall be protected. No activity shall be permitted that alters the physical status of the land, causes degradation of forest resources, damages forest growth or otherwise prejudices the protection and conservation of forests,” reads the circular.

The Forest Department shall also extend all necessary assistance and cooperation to the Gram Sabhas, Sub-Divisional Level Committees, District Level Committees and other competent authorities constituted under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, in verification and settlement of claims. Claims or proposed activities concerning protected areas or ecologically sensitive areas shall be examined strictly in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, forest and wildlife laws, environmental laws, judicial directions and other statutory requirements.

The circular also notes that for maintaining an appropriate balance between forest conservation and the legitimate rights of forest-dwelling communities, the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), as applicable to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, provides the statutory framework for protection, preservation, management and regulation of forests and forest produce while the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (hereinafter referred to as the “Forest Rights Act, 2006”) and the rules made thereunder provide for a prescribed mechanism for recognition and vesting of forest rights of eligible forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. “These enactments are required to be implemented in their respective fields and in a manner that ensures that genuine and legally admissible forest rights are duly recognized and protected without compromising the statutory mandate for protection, conservation and ecological integrity of forests,” the circular further reads.

It is pertinent to mention that the Tribal Affairs Department, vide Circular No. 01-JK TAD of 2026 dated 30.07.2026, has also reiterated the mechanism and procedure for settlement of claims of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers.

Forest Minister Javed Rana has consistently advocated a balanced approach that protects the ecological integrity of forests while ensuring due recognition of the legitimate rights of forest-dependent communities within the framework of law.

“The basic rights of our tribal communities cannot be compromised. Forest conservation and the legitimate rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers must go hand in hand, with every action guided by law, fairness and justice. Our commitment is to protect our forests while ensuring that the rights and dignity of these communities are fully safeguarded,” maintained the Minister.

11/08/2026

Cultural Unit Srinagar continues series of Programmes in connection with Independence Day Celebrations

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 11: Continuing the ongoing celebrations of Independence Day, 2026, the Cultural Unit Srinagar of the Information Department organised a series of cultural and educational programmes in various schools of Srinagar.

The programmes, held at GBHSS Zadibal, GHS Drugjan Dalgate and GGHSS Zadibal, featured Painting, Speech, Quiz and Singing activities, providing students with a meaningful platform to showcase their creativity, patriotic spirit and appreciation for the sacrifices of the freedom fighters.

The students participated with remarkable enthusiasm and wholehearted involvement, adding vibrancy and patriotic fervour to the celebrations. The programmes were aimed at fostering patriotic consciousness among young minds and reinforcing the enduring values of freedom, unity, sacrifice, national integrity and responsible citizenship.

Abdul Raqib Bhat, Cultural Officer, Kashmir, and Syed Shakeel Shah, AECO, graced the programmes and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the students. They also acknowledged the cooperation extended by the school authorities, which contributed significantly to the smooth and successful conduct of the programmes.

11/08/2026

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11/08/2026

Estimates Committee Meeting in LA Complex Srinagar.

The Muslim Kashmir

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