Tag: Jammu and Kashmir

Senior BJP leader MK Ajatshatru Singh

At UN, Maharaja Hari Singh’s Grandson Hails Indian Govt’s Decision To Abrogate Article 370

By LokMarg

Senior BJP leader MK Ajatshatru Singh in his address to the United Nations hailed the Government of India’s bold decision to abrogate Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Ajatshatru, the grandson of Maharaja Hari Singh who had signed the treaty of accession of the region with India in 1947 expressed his deep concern for the plight of those living under Pakistan occupation and sought UN intervention to ameliorate them.

In his address at the UN on Friday, the senior BJP leader said, “Since the constitutional reforms in 2019, there has been a significant decline in terrorist incidents in the region. From 2004 to 2014, Jammu and Kashmir experienced a total of 7,217 terrorist incidents. However, thanks to the reforms, terror incidents have decreased by over 70 per cent. This improvement underscores the effectiveness of the government’s actions in restoring peace and stability to the region.”

“Moreover, on the socio-economic front, the reduction of poverty in Jammu and Kashmir from 40.45 per cent in 2005-2006 to a mere 2.81 per cent in 2022-2023 is a testament to the optimal utilization of development funds. The recent interim budget for 2024 allocated a substantial USD 14 billion for Jammu and Kashmir, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to the region’s prosperity,” he said.

Ajatshatru said that over the past nine years, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable revolution in infrastructure development, including the establishment of new medical colleges, tunnels, railway lines, and civic infrastructure. These advancements have been achieved while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region, said the son of Karan Singh, the titular king of undivided Jammu and Kashmir.

However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all parts of Jammu and Kashmir have benefited equally. Recent protests in regions under Pakistani occupation highlight the growing awareness of economic disparities compared to those under Indian administration.

The former minister appealed to the United Nations to take concrete steps in accordance with Security Council resolutions to ameliorate the situation faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir under Pakistan occupation. It is imperative that the international community addresses their grievances and ensures their fundamental rights are upheld, he concluded. (ANI)

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counter-terror operations Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

MHA Bans On Both Factions Of Muslim Conference J&K

By LokMarg

Central Government on Monday issued a Gazette notification regarding formation of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal to adjudicate whether or not there is sufficient cause for declaring the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Bhat faction) (MCJK-B) and Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction) (MCJK-S) has as an unlawful association.

The notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs reads that Central Government constitutes the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal consisting of Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, Judge, High Court of Delhi, to adjudicate whether or not there is sufficient cause for declaring the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Bhat faction) (MCJK-B) and Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction) (MCJK-S) has as an unlawful association.

On February 28, MHA declared the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction) and Muslim Conference Jammu & Kashmir (Bhat faction) as unlawful associations for five years.

The move came after the MHA found that these outfits have been engaging in activities against the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

As per the notification, the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction), chaired by Ghulam Nabi Sumji, is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.

It also mentioned that the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Bhat faction), or MCJK-S, chaired by Abdul Ghani Bhat, has been indulging in unlawful activities that are prejudicial to the integrity, sovereignty, and security of the country. (ANI)

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Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi

J-K: Landslide Claims Lives Of Mother, Infant, Children In Reasi

By LokMarg

Tragedy struck Chassana Village in Mahore sub-division in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district as a devastating landslide, triggered by heavy to moderate rainfall over the past 24 hours, claimed the lives of a two-month-old infant, her mother, and two other children.

“A two-month-old child, her mother, and two other children died when the house they were sleeping in collapsed this morning after a landslide occurred in the village,” Deputy Commissioner Reasi said on Sunday.

In the incident, Phalla Akther, wife of Mohd Farid, aged about 30 years, Nasima Akther, daughter of Mohd Farid, aged 5 years, Safeen Kousar, daughter of Mohd Farid, aged 3 years, and Samreen Kousar, daughter of Mohd Farid, aged 2 months, died on the spot.

Two persons, namely Kalu, son of Juma, and Bano Begum, wife of Kalu, aged about 58 years, got injured, officials added. (ANI)

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counter-terror operations Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

Centre Extends Ban On Jamaat-e-Islami For Next 5 Yrs

By LokMarg

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday extended ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir, for next five years with immediate effect declaring it as an ‘unlawful association’ under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967.

The MHA made the declaration through a gazette notification announcing the extension of ban on Jamaat-e-Islami.

The move comes as the MHA found that the organisation is found continuing in its activities against the security, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. The outfit was first declared an ‘Unlawful Association’ on February 28, 2019.

Exercising the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the MHA had declared the Jamaat-e-Islami as an unlawful association on February 28, 2019.

“The Central Government, having regard to the above circumstances, is of firm opinion that it is necessary to declare the Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir (JeI) as an ‘unlawful association’ with immediate effect, and accordingly, in exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, the Central Government hereby directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect for a period of five years from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette,” the fresh notification mentions.

Soon after the announcement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to his ‘X’ handle, formerly Twitter, announcing that the extension of ban against Jamaat-e-Islami is part of zero tolerance policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government at the Centre.

“Pursuing PM @narendramodi Ji’s policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and separatism, the government has extended the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir for five years. The organisation is found continuing its activities against the security, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. The outfit was first declared an ‘Unlawful Association’ on 28 February 2019,” Shah posted on ‘X’.

“Anyone threatening the security of the nation will face ruthless measures,” Shah further said.

As per the MHA, the Jamaat-e-Islami is in close touch with terror outfits and is continuously supporting extremism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. It is supporting claims for secession of a part of the Indian territory from the Union and supporting terrorist and separatist groups fighting for this purpose by indulging in activities and articulations intended to disrupt the territorial integrity of India.

“JeI is involved in anti-national and subversive activities in the country intended to cause disaffection; And, whereas, the Central Government is of the opinion that if the unlawful activities of the JeI are not curbed and controlled immediately, it will take the opportunity to -escalate its subversive activities including attempt to carve out an Islamic State out of the territory of Union of India by destabilising the Government established by law; continue advocating the secession of the State of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India while disputing the accession of the State with the Union; propagate anti-national and separatist sentiments prejudicial to the integrity and security of the country; and escalate secessionist movements, support militancy and incite violence in the country,” added the notification. (ANI)

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Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Plays Gully Cricket In J-K

By LokMarg

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Thursday shared glimpse of him playing ‘gully cricket’ during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

Tendulkar took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to share a short clip of him playing cricket with the locals, and captioned it: “Cricket & Kashmir: A MATCH in HEAVEN!”

In the video, it can be seen Sachin was travelling with his family but the cricket maestro stopped his car to hit some shots in between the snowy mountain. The 50-year-old did not hesitate to loft the ball over the head of the bowler and play a few drive shots.

After the short cricket session, Sachin clicked a few selfies with the local cricket fans who were playing on the road. To entertain the people, he also played some unorthodox shots.

Earlier during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the Master Blaster visited a cricket bat manufacturing factory. Kashmiri willow bats are renowned all over the world.

While sharing the video of his visit to the cricket bat factory, he captioned: “The first bat given to me was by my sister and it was a Kashmir willow bat. Ab main yahan hoon to Kashmir willow ko to milna banta hai! P.S: An interesting fact; some of my favourite bats had only about 5-6 grains. How many grains do your bats have?”

The cricket legend also recollected the time his sister had gifted him a Kashmir willow bat. (ANI)

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Gulmarg

Gulmarg Receives Fresh Snowfall

By LokMarg

Gulmarg, a winter wonderland in Jammu and Kashmir has been drawing attention from foreign skiers and adventure lovers following a recent snowfall in the higher reaches of the valley.

The snow-donned Gulmarg reflects the pristine beauty of nature as its meadows serve as a paradise for those seeking adventure and the thrill of downhill descents.

With its world-renowned highest altitudes, Gulmarg attracts adventurers from across the globe as the landscape lays a majestic backdrop for national and international skiers to navigate the slopes.

While speaking to ANI, Chief Executive Officer Waseem Raja speaks about why national and international skiers are captivated by the presence of the highest snow-led altitudes of Gulmarg.

“Gulmarg is one of the best skiing resorts in the whole world. Skiers are reaching here from within the country and the world. All adventure activities including the snowfall have resumed after the snowfall. The snowfall is forecasted to continue for a few days,” the Chief Executive Officer told ANI.

Sharing her experience, a skier from Australia opens up about her time in the winter wonderland, Gulmarg and says, “They have a range. Once phase two is open, more experienced skis can go up there. Sort of suits everyone as well, which is great. I would suggest if you have the opportunity to come here, do. It’s amazing.”

“This is my first time here. It is a gorgeous place and the people are very, very friendly. It’s lovely,” adds the Australian skier.

Another skier from Scotland told ANI, “I feel blessed to be here. I’m just so lucky that in this turbulent time in the world and there’s so much war, we get opportunities to come to Kashmir. The slopes of Gulmarg are so good for skiing and cater for every skier, from beginner to advanced. Stay safe and come to Kashmir.”

The picturesque destination of Gulmarg has become a hotspot for those seeking winter sports and the thrill of fresh snow.

Snow skiing is a winter sport that involves using skis to move over snow.

Winter sports require skis — long, narrow, flat, curved strips of metal, wood, or plastic that are attached to shoes or boots and are used by skiers to glide over snow.

Skiing can be a fun recreational activity or a competitive sport. The two main types of skiing are downhill and cross-country.

The best time to go skiing is between December and April, which is the main ‘ski season’ in most resorts. (ANI)

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The Winter Session of the Parliament

Parliament Passes Bills For OBC Quota In Local Bodies In J-K

By LokMarg

The Rajya Sabha on Friday passed three legislations relating to Jammu and Kashmir including the bill to provide reservation to Other Backward Classes in local bodies to bring consistency in the local bodies’ laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution.

Rajya Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The three bills have been passed by Lok Sabha.

Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai replied to the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar answered the debate on the bill relating to Scheduled Castes Order and Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda to the bill relating to Scheduled Tribes Order.

Munda said that the three bills brought after the abrogation of Article 370 were aimed at giving justice to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir will get “political reservation for the first time”.

The Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to provide reservation to Other Backward Classes in the panchayats and the municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir and to bring consistency in the local bodies laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution.

It seeks to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989, the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000 and the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000.

Officials said that provisions pertaining to state Election Commissioner in the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act “are at variance” with the provisions of the Constitution.

They said said Jammu and Kashmir administration had recommended the inclusion of the Valmiki community as a synonym of Chura, Bhangi, Balmiki, Mehtar at serial number 5 in the list of Scheduled Castes of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 proposes to amend the Schedule of the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order, 1956 for inclusion of ‘Valmiki’.

The officials said that the Jammu and Kashmir administration has requested for inclusion of the “Gadda Brahmin”, “Koli”, “Paddari Tribe” communities and “Pahari Ethnic Group” in the list of Scheduled Tribes.

The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 proposes to amend the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order, 1989. (ANI)

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Srinagar Snowfall

Heavy Snowfall In Srinagar Brings An End To Dry Spell

By LokMarg

Srinagar, a renowned tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir, turns into a winter wonderland with heavy snowfall on Sunday. After a prolonged dry spell, the snow has brought a sense of hope and rejuvenation to the people who rely on it for various reasons.

A fresh snowfall in Srinagar has brought much-needed relief among the residents.

The snow is not only a beautiful sight to behold but also a crucial source of water.

One tourist, while sharing his experiences, told ANI that, “It’s so beautiful, witnessing Kashmir after hearing so much about it. I ventured out today just to behold this view. With heavy snowfall, I hope it doesn’t get too cold. Initially, I was disappointed, thinking there might be no snow, but since the day before yesterday, it’s been wonderful. I hope such snowfall continues, benefiting farmers who were worried about horticulture and water issues, thinking their crops wouldn’t be good. After the snowfall, there’s hope that their crops will thrive.”

Also, according to the India Metrological Department, shallow fog is observed in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Fog conditions observed (at 0830 hours IST of today): Dense fog in isolated pockets of Odisha; Moderate fog in isolated pockets of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim; Shallow fog in isolated pockets of Jammu-Kashmir, Delhi and Assam,” IMD in a post on X.

Further, the visibility recorded on Sunday was less than equal to 500 in Banihal, IMD in a post on X shared.

“Visibility recorded (at 0830 hours IST of today) (<=500 metres): Jammu & Kashmir: Kupwara, Batote & Banihal-500 each; Punjab: Ludhiana-200; Himachal Pradesh: Shimla-200, Kalpa-500; Delhi: Safdarjung-500; Odisha: Paradip-50, Chandbali, Balasore, Gopalpur & Puri-500 each,” IMD in a tweet.

Earlier, after the wet weather, induced by a western disturbance, prevailed across North India over the last few days, another western disturbance is set to alter weather conditions in the mountain regions this weekend, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Scientist Naresh said.

Naresh said that snowfall is expected in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on February 4 and Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh and North-West Madhya Pradesh will experience light hailstorms.

He also said that the effect of the previous western disturbance lasted till Thursday, leading to intense snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

On the possibility of a rise in temperature since another Western Disturbance is set to alter weather patterns in north-west and central India, Naresh said temperatures will increase during the morning and dense fog may be expected in isolated pockets in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi NCR.

“There will not be a cold day, as temperatures will not drip in the next few days. So we are not expecting cold day in the next few days. We are also not expecting cold wave in the next 5-7 days,” he said.

Speaking about the weather pattern in the national capital, Lokesh said, “In Delhi, there might be light rainfall from February 3 to February 4.” (ANI)

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nano-fertiliser by the farmers under the AGR-2 Scheme Amit Shah

Shah Chairs High-Level Security Review Meeting On J-K

By LokMarg

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday chaired a high-level security review meeting on Jammu and Kashmir.

In the meeting, the Home Minister is to review the functioning of the security grid and various aspects related to security.

The Home Minister is learnt to be reviewing security in Jammu and Kashmir in view of recent attacks in the Union Territory.

In the meeting, Shah also focused on complete area domination and better coordination among Police, Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) deployed in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Home Minister also stressed the need to boost and strengthen local intelligence in the Union Territory.

It is learnt that the Home Minister would review the area domination plan, zero-terror plan, law and order situation, cases related to UAPA and other security-related issues.

Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, National Investigation Agency DG Dinkar Gupta, Director Generals of Central Reserve Police Force and the Border Security Force attended the meeting, among other concerned officers of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Jammu and Kashmir.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, Director Intelligence Bureau Tapan Deka and Army Chief General Manoj Pande were also present in the meeting.

The meeting was held days after four soldiers were killed and three injured following an encounter started after terrorists fired at two army vehicles passing through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri’s Poonch region at around 3.45 pm on December 21 last year.

In November last year, five soldiers including two Captains were also killed in action after the Army and its special forces launched an anti-terror operation in Rajouri’s Kalakote.

In April and May 2023, 10 soldiers were killed in action in twin attacks in the Rajouri-Poonch region. This region had been largely free of terrorism between 2003 and 2021, after which frequent encounters started happening. Over 35 soldiers have been killed in action during anti-terror operations in the area during 2021 and 2022.

Pir Panjal, which also comprises Rajouri district besides Poonch and parts of Reasi districts, has witnessed a spike in militancy in recent years with several Army soldiers losing their lives after being ambushed by militants in the region, said sources in the security wing.

The Home Minister had chaired a similar high-level review meeting on the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir on January 13 last year and said that all security agencies are fighting a decisive battle against terrorism following the policy of zero tolerance against terrorism under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He had also said that a 360-degree security mechanism would be further strengthened to completely eliminate the support and information systems of terrorists.

The Minister had also held a review meeting on the security situation of the Union Territory in the national capital on April 13 last year wherein he reviewed the functioning of the security grid and various aspects related to security and reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government of India is committed towards zero tolerance against terrorism.(ANI)

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Rajnath LoC

There Should Be Zero Tolerance To Terror: Rajnath

By LokMarg

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir and took stock of the security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) on Wednesday and asked the troops to remain extra vigilant so that no untoward incident occurs in the future.

He carried out a first-hand assessment of the prevailing situation as well as the counter-terror operations in the area. He was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi.

The Raksha Mantri was given a detailed brief on the prevalent security situation, counter-infiltration grid and operational preparedness. The aspects associated with the operating challenges were discussed by Rajnath Singh with the commanders on the ground. He called for professional conduct and due diligence while carrying out operations.

Interacting with the troops, Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the soldiers killed in action and conveyed his deepest condolences to the families of the bravehearts.

He wished a speedy recovery for the injured soldiers, emphasising that all necessary measures are being taken in view of the prevailing situation.

Rajnath Singh assured the troops that the government stands with the Armed Forces and that the nation will forever be indebted to the unparalleled valour and sacrifice of the soldiers. He termed the welfare of the Armed Forces the government’s top priority, stressing that additional efforts are being made to bolster the security and intelligence framework.

“Indian Army is not an ordinary army. The soldiers are our protectors. It is their duty to not only safeguard national interests but also to win the hearts of the people,” the defence minister added.

He exhorted the troops to remain extra vigilant so that no untoward incident occurs in the future, reiterating that there should be zero tolerance for terrorism.

Singh described the recent incidents in the sector as unfortunate and asked all ranks to undertake operations based on hard intelligence, in accordance with established procedures aided by niche technology. He urged all commanders to have zero tolerance for violations of the well-established SOPs.

Rajnath Singh also met with the families of the deceased persons, residents of village Topa Peer of Bufliaz in Poonch district. He assured an expeditious investigation into the incident, culminating in the delivery of justice.

He further expressed satisfaction for the high level of synergy between the security forces, civil administration, J-K Police, Central Armed Police Forces and other security agencies in projecting a clear message of resoluteness towards improving the security environment that is conducive to fostering a new era of development in the Union Territory (UT).

He also complimented the local people for their steadfastness and contribution towards joining the mainstream efforts undertaken by the Government of India. It was emphasised that unity in the thought process, alignment and collective resolve for the good of the nation are the most important foundations for the achievement of shared aspirations of peace and development in the UT.

Prior to the visit of Rajnath Singh, the Chief of Army Staff had visited the area on December 25 and exhorted all ranks of the Indian Army to conduct operations in the most professional manner while remaining resolute and steadfast against all challenges.

He had also underscored the commitment of the Indian Army to respecting human rights and zero tolerance for violations in any form. (ANI)

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