Kashmir Story

10/07/2025

*No Permission Granted, Illegal Mining Will Be Dealt With Strictly: DMO Budgam Amid Mounting Public Outcry*

*Ubaid Mehd*

Budgam, July 10 (JKNS): Amid growing outrage over rampant illegal excavation and mining across several areas of central Kashmir’s Budgam district, District Mineral Officer (DMO) Budgam on Thursday clarified that no official permission has been granted for any excavation or mining activity in the district.

Speaking to news agency JKNS, the DMO said, “There is no permission granted anywhere in the district. These people are working illegally, and strict action will be taken against them.”

This statement comes in the wake of reports of widespread, unauthorized mining operations being carried out in areas such as Chadoora, Beerwa KhanSahib, Jawalapora, and Sholipora. Residents and activists have accused certain contractors of engaging in large-scale excavation using heavy machinery mostly during the night causing serious environmental degradation and damaging public infrastructure.

Locals told JKNS that the unregulated mining is severely impacting agricultural land, choking irrigation canals, and creating health hazards due to dust and air pollution. “Our lands are vanishing, and our children are getting sick from the constant dust,” said a resident from Chadoora.

Environmentalists have also warned that the region’s fragile terrain faces long-term damage due to unchecked soil erosion, with possible implications for groundwater levels and landslide risks.

Despite repeated complaints, locals allege that departments including Revenue, Geology & Mining, and Pollution Control have remained silent on the matter.

Citizens have called for immediate intervention, strict legal action, and a halt to all illegal operations, demanding transparency and accountability from the district administration before irreversible damage is done. (JKNS)

10/07/2025

Sakeena Itoo reviews healthcare scenario in Budhal, Surankote assembly constituencies
SRINAGAR, JULY 10: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today chaired a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review overall healthcare infrastructure and facilities in Budhal and Surankote Assembly Constituencies.
MLA Budhal, Javid Iqbal Choudhary; MLA Surankote, Choudhary Mohammad Akram; Secretary Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed; Director Health Services Jammu, Chief Medical Officers of Rajouri and Poonch districts besides other senior officers of health department attended the meeting in person and virtually.
The Minister had in-depth assessment of existing healthcare infrastructure and its associated facilities in Budhal and Surankote Assembly Constituencies. She also took stock of medical equipments, medicines and other essential facilities available for the people of these far flung areas.
Addressing the officers, the Minister emphasized on the need for strengthening healthcare infrastructure, upgrading medical equipment and ensuring availability of essential medicines in remote areas of these constituencies. She asked the officers to establish tele medicine facilities in these areas, especially in critical spots having less nearby health facilities. She further asked them to ensure ample quantity of life saving drugs available in these places as it will reduce the chances of fatalities during referral.
Taking strong notice of shortage of specialist doctors, the Minister directed the Secretary Health and Director Health to cancel all attachments immediately and post them at their designated places. She also asked them to deploy specialist doctors on roster basis at the health facilities of these constituencies in order to amplify healthcare services in these areas.
The Minister asked the Secretary Health and Director Health to initiate action against the doctors indulging in private practice during working hours. She asked them to conduct surprise inspections of health facilities in order to make the doctors and other paramedical staff more accountable.
The Minister, during the meeting, also called for generating maximum awareness regarding PMJAY SEHAT scheme among the people of these areas so that they can take desired benefits from it.

10/07/2025

CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates Travel & Tourism Fair Kolkata-2025

Mutual tourism growth possible between J&K and West Bengal: CM
KOLKATA, JULY 10: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the Travel & Tourism Fair, TTF Kolkata-2025, India’s oldest and most trusted B2B travel trade show, at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan, Kolkata.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of travel professionals, industry stakeholders, and dignitaries, the Chief Minister described TTF Kolkata as a vital platform to explore avenues for collaboration between Jammu & Kashmir and West Bengal and promote mutual growth in the tourism sector.
He emphasized that the fair would encourage all stakeholders to contribute meaningfully towards strengthening the cultural and economic ties between the two regions.
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by several dignitaries, including Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Committee Rajkumari Thapa, MLA (Soreng-Chakung) Aditya Gole, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Tourism Board Neelu Sharma, Counsel General of Thailand Siriporn Tantipanyathep, and Convenor of Association for Conservation & Tourism (ACT) Raj Basu.
The event also witnessed enthusiastic participation from various tour and travel operators, tourism officers, and media representatives, highlighting the growing significance of the eastern Indian market in national and global tourism circuits.
In his address, the Chief Minister, who was the chief guest at the event, highlighted Jammu & Kashmir’s transformation into a year-round, all-segment tourist destination, with significant strides made in infrastructure, accessibility, and investor-friendly policies.
He spoke of the deep cultural and emotional connect between J&K and West Bengal, inviting travellers from the state to rediscover the timeless charm, natural beauty, and evolving experiences of Jammu & Kashmir.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his privilege in being part of the country’s premier travel trade platform. “It is indeed a privilege to be here at TTF Kolkata 2025,” he said. “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organizers for creating this vital platform that promotes tourism across the country. Jammu & Kashmir is proud to participate as a key stakeholder in India’s tourism growth story.”
The Chief Minister elaborated on the remarkable transformation witnessed in Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector. “J&K has evolved into a year-round, all-segment tourism destination,” he noted. “We are not only focusing on traditional sites but have also identified and developed off-beat locations such as Gurez, Bangus, Bhaderwah, Sanasar, Doodhpathri, and Basohli. These destinations have seen significant growth and offer unique experiences to travellers.”
Highlighting the J&K’s thrust on border tourism, the Chief Minister stated, “We are promoting tourism in areas like Uri, Keran, Teetwal, and Suchetgarh. Our aim is to ensure that local communities benefit directly from tourism-led development. These border destinations are not only picturesque but also rich culturally.”
The Chief Minister placed special emphasis on community involvement in the tourism landscape. “Homestays across Jammu & Kashmir reflect the growing grassroots participation in tourism,” he said. “We are particularly supporting women-led homestays in rural areas such as Kupwara and Ganderbal. This approach is helping us promote inclusive growth while empowering women economically.”
He also underlined the growing popularity of niche tourism in the region. “J&K has emerged as a prime hub for adventure tourism—be it skiing, trekking, alpine lake exploration, or mountaineering,” he said. “Our world-class golf courses in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Srinagar, and Jammu are attracting global enthusiasts, including international cricketers. Wedding tourism, too, is gaining momentum in Srinagar and Gulmarg, with several high-end celebrations taking place in these iconic locations.”
Referring to the revival of film tourism, the Chief Minister stated, “Jammu & Kashmir is once again reclaiming its position as the cinematic crown of India, ideal for filmmaking. The return of Bollywood to the Valley is not only enhancing the region’s visibility but is also creating livelihood opportunities across sectors.”
Sharing recent recognitions, he added, “J&K’s tourism initiatives have earned national acclaim. We received the SKOCH Silver Award for our Homestay Initiative and multiple accolades under the Ministry of Tourism’s Best Rural Homestay Awards for locations like Keran, Jharokabagh, and Yusmarg. We were also recognized under the ‘Travel for LIFE’ program for our sustainable tourism efforts. Moreover, Aru in Pahalgam was awarded Best Tourism Village in the Adventure Category.”
Discussing future prospects, the Chief Minister spoke about J&K’s emergence as a hub for MICE tourism. “We are positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a leading destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), backed by our natural beauty, cultural richness, and improved infrastructure,” he said.
Looking ahead, he stressed the importance of sustainable and inclusive development. “Our tourism strategy is anchored in sustainability, community participation, and heritage conservation,” he said. “We are focusing on expanding experiential and niche tourism—ranging from homestays and cultural trails to wellness and rural tourism. Our vision is to make Jammu & Kashmir not just a preferred destination, but a global benchmark for responsible, inclusive, and transformative tourism.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended a warm invitation to delegates, investors, and travel stakeholders. “I urge all of you to visit Jammu & Kashmir and witness its tourism potential first-hand. TTF Kolkata offers us a unique platform to explore collaboration and foster deeper cultural and economic ties with West Bengal. J&K has always held a special place in the hearts of travellers from Eastern India, and we look forward to welcoming them once again with renewed experiences and opportunities.”
The Travel & Tourism Fair Kolkata 2025, being held from July 10–12, features over 500 exhibitors from 25+ Indian states and 14+ countries, along with 5,500+ verified travel trade professionals, making it the largest tourism networking event in Eastern India ahead of the festive travel season.

06/07/2025

Hussain
Budgam

06/07/2025

06/07/2025

Kashmir Story

06/07/2025

Today at Mirgund Budgam

04/07/2025

Lieutenant Governor addresses 6th Convocation Ceremony of SKUAST Kashmir
LG congratulates SKUAST Kashmir for creating a competent and competitive human resource, shaping up farm sector in J&K UT
Proud to see our daughters breaking barriers and achieving success in Agricultural Science and Technology: LG Sinha
Out of 150 students conferred with gold medals, 115 were women students. Out of 445 Certificates of Merit, 334 were conferred to girls. It reflects a bright future for J&K and the nation: LG
SRINAGAR, JULY 04: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today addressed the 6th Convocation Ceremony of SKUAST Kashmir at Srinagar.
Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan was the Chief Guest for the Convocation Ceremony.
The Union Minister extended his best wishes to the graduating students on their new beginning.
“Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu Kashmir and Prosperous farming community is our resolve. The Government of India, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is committed to develop J&K as a hub of Horticulture,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Union Minister also shared the experience of his visit to Jammu Kashmir. “The natural beauty of Kashmir and the love of its people has won my heart,” he said.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha congratulated the University for creating a competent and competitive human resource, shaping up farm sector in J&K UT, remarkable improvement in its ranking and also wished the students for their bright future.
He extended his felicitations to the women students for their excellent academic performance across the subjects.
“Proud to see our daughters breaking barriers and achieving success in Agricultural Science & Technology. Out of 150 students conferred with gold medals, 115 were women students. Out of 445 Certificates of Merit, 334 were conferred to girls. Out of a total of 5250 degrees of undergraduate, masters, PhD in today's convocation, 2661 degrees have been awarded to women students. It reflects a bright future for J&K and the nation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor, in his address, spoke on the transformative reforms taking place in agriculture and allied sectors in the UT of Jammu Kashmir over the past few years.
“Under the visionary leadership of the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the agriculture and allied sector has truly become a mainstay of India’s economy. This change is strongly reflected in J&K’s agriculture landscape. Today, Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) has emerged as a role model of agricultural revolution in the entire country,” he said.
He highlighted that in the last five years, Jammu and Kashmir has set 4 major goals for agriculture and allied sector - to transform the agriculture sector into a sustainable-commercial agriculture economy, to create an agri-business ecosystem with value chain, farmer and community-centric approach for holistic development of agriculture and to increase the income of farming families and secure their livelihood.
The Lieutenant Governor urged the graduating students to make their valuable contribution to innovation and progressive farming and take the lead in agri-technology, food technology, and groundbreaking innovation. Your passion and ideas will shape the future of India’s Agriculture sector, he said.
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself. And, I firmly believe that if education is in accordance with the time and the needs of the global industry, then it is the most precious asset of the society,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Vice Chancellor and his team for developing modern, state of the art infrastructure and a new-age educational platform. New academic programmes, centres of excellence and research in modern technology areas - artificial intelligence, machine learning, gene editing, regenerative medicine, speed breeding - have brought Jammu and Kashmir closer to achieving its goal of becoming a knowledge economy and provided an opportunity to promote the UT's bio-economy.
Prof. Nazir Ah. Ganai, Vice Chancellor SKUAST Kashmir read out the university report and highlighted the academic, research and extension activities of the University.
On the occasion, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare laid the foundation stone for the Girls hostel at SKUAST Kashmir.
Chief Minister, Shri Omar Abdullah; Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Surinder Kumar Choudhary; Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, J&K, Shri Javid Ahmad Dar; Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Ms Sakina Itoo, Chief Secretary, Shri Atal Dulloo; Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production, Shri Shailendra Kumar; heads of various educational institutions; senior officials, prominent citizens, faculty members, staff, graduating students and their parents were present.

28/06/2025

Aga Ruhullah attended felicitation Program at Exceptional IAS Academy Parraypora

27/06/2025

Sakeena Itoo lays foundation stone of main building, administrative block of GDC Chadoora

BUDGAM, JUNE 27: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo laid the foundation stone of main building and administrative block of Government Degree College (GDC) Chadoora here today.

MLA, Chadoora, Ali Mohammad Dar; Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Director Health Services Kashmir, Director Colleges, Director Family Welfare and Immunization, Director AYUSH, Principal GDC Chadoora, faculty members of college and large number of locals were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Education Minister emphasized on the government’s unwavering commitment to empowering youth through accessible and quality education. “This institution will not just be a building of bricks and mortar, but a beacon of knowledge, opportunity and progress for the youth of Chadoora and adjoining areas”, she stated.

The Minister also announced that in coming days a bus will be provided to the college for the convenience of students.

Sakeena Itoo said that with the sincere efforts of our Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, education system across Jammu and Kashmir is taking a positive shape. She added that it is resolve of our government that Educational institutions should reach every village and every corner of our society.

“After the formation of this popular government, numerous languishing projects have been made functional while work on others has been fast-tracked”, she highlighted.

Minister further highlighted that the progress we have seen in the past few months is a reflection of the government’s dedication to inclusive growth and grassroots development.

Outlining some key achievements of the government in recent months, the Minister said that the Government increased the Old age pension as well as marriage assistance for the sisters of J&K. She added that free electricity of 200 units and free ration of 10 kgs for deserving families is also being provided.

The Minister added that for the empowerment of women folk, free transport in government owned buses is being provided for our sisters.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Chadoora, Ali Mohammad Dar expressed gratitude to the Minister for his constant support and assistance to the people of Chadoora constituency. He added that with the establishment of this college, a long pending demand of locals has been fulfilled as the college was functioning in pre-fabricated huts.

On the occasion, Sakeena Itoo also interacted with several public delegations and individuals, who apprised the Minister about various issues and problems faced by them.

While interacting with them, the Minister assured them that their genuine issues and concerns will be addressed promptly.

27/06/2025

DC Srinagar inspects different offices in DC Office Complex

Assesses existing infra, facilities for public & employees

SRINAGAR, JUNE 27: In order to take stock of functioning & infrastructure of various sections of DC office complex, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo Friday inspected various sections and sub-offices of DC office, Srinagar.

The visit focused on taking stock of available facilities, existing infrastructure and the existing need to enhance administrative efficiency by upgrading infrastructure, streamlining record rooms, IT infrastructure, as well as ensuring adequate amenities and accessibility to the public.

DC inspected the offices of Additional District Development Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioners, Chief Planning Officer, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Assistant Commissioner Nazool, SDM East, Tehsil Office South, besides other subordinate Offices.

During the visit, DC interacted with the officers and other officials and emphasized the paramount importance of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery. He stressed the need for adopting best work ethics and urged the staff to work with a proactive approach while addressing public issues and grievances.

Labroo stressed the significance of maintaining cleanliness, organized office spaces and adhering to established protocols.

While inspecting the Revenue Record room, DC emphasized proper maintenance of the records in an organized manner and its simultaneous digitisation. He also stressed on ensuring better facilities for the people visiting the DC office Complex and laid stress on creating a comfortable and welcoming space for visitors to access services and address their grievances.

DC also stressed the importance of creating a user-friendly environment within the office, particularly for those seeking assistance or redressal of issues.

During the visit, DC was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioners, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz and Aadil Fareed; Chief Planning Office, Fayaz Ahmad Dar; Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Umar Gulzar; Tehsildar South and other concerned.

27/06/2025

CM Omar Abdullah calls for collective efforts to restore J&K as India’s premier tourist destination

Addresses FICCI’s ‘Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Revival Dialogue at SKICC

SRINAGAR, JUNE 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that it is the collective duty of the government and tourism stakeholders to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s position as the country’s pre-eminent tourist destination and ensure it remains so.

The Chief Minister was addressing the ‘Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Revival Dialogue’ organized jointly by FICCI and the Department of Tourism, J&K at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

“It is binding on us that we do everything in our power to ensure that Jammu and Kashmir goes back to its position as the pre-eminent tourist destination in the country and then stays there,” the Chief Minister said in his address, highlighting that the government is working on new initiatives focused primarily on improving the overall tourist experience.

Reflecting on the recent challenges, the Chief Minister recounted the sharp contrast between the optimism of April 21 and the downturn of April 22, referring to a sudden drop in tourist footfall following the unfortunate incident. “From flying over Dal Lake and seeing hundreds of shikaras to seeing none just days later—it was a brutal reminder that the past can intrude into our present and, God forbid, our future,” he said.

He acknowledged the volatility that tourism in J&K has witnessed over the decades and emphasized the importance of resilience. “Unlike most other places where tourism planning can be done for years ahead, here we plan week to week. But still—we plan, and we persist,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to FICCI and the larger tourism fraternity for standing by Jammu & Kashmir in both good and challenging times.

The event was attended by Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Farooq Ahmad Shah, Salman Sagar, Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, FICCI past president Jyotsna Suri, Head of FICCI J&K Chapter Mushtaq Burza, and a host of film producers, MICE organizers, wedding planners, golfers, and stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sector.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah outlined efforts to broaden the tourism footprint in the region. “We are working on a project called SPREAD, aimed at developing nine new tourist destinations in both Kashmir and Jammu, with expected support from multilateral funding agencies,” he said.

The Chief Minister also emphasized the diversity of tourism opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. “We can’t confine ourselves to three or four destinations. Jammu offers pilgrimage and border tourism. Kashmir offers scenic, cultural and adventure tourism. Together, we can build a more holistic tourism ecosystem.”

Discussing connectivity, the CM noted the transformative impact of railway infrastructure: “Traveling by train through tunnels and world’s highest rail bridge into the valley is a breathtaking experience. We may not yet have a direct Delhi-Srinagar line, but that day isn’t far.”

He also underscored the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and niche tourism sectors. “We are close to completing a world-class conference facility in Gulmarg to supplement venues like SKICC. Areas like MICE tourism, golf, film and destination weddings are vital components of our future strategy.”

The Chief Minister urged the tourism fraternity to be active partners. “We value your support, suggestions, and most importantly—your criticism when needed. Together, we can build a resilient and vibrant tourism sector that not only brings visitors but makes them want to return.”

On the occasion, Chief Minister launched a book ‘Golfing in Paradise’ authored by Atul Dir, celebrating Jammu & Kashmir’s growing appeal as a premier golf tourism destination.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani also spoke on the occasion and said J&K had emerged as a tourism hub much before other states in India and now we need to develop whole range of niche tourism activities in J&K such as adventure tourism, leisure tourism MICE tourism alongwith promoting Kashmir as an affordable and wonderful wedding destination.