Month: January 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed enthusiasm for his upcoming visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, where he will inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13. The tunnel, which promises year-round connectivity to the picturesque region, is expected to significantly boost tourism and the local economy. Responding to a post by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said, “I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy. Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos!” CM Omar Abdullah, who had earlier visited Sonmarg to review the preparations for the Prime Minister’s visit, shared aerial photos and videos of the tunnel site on his X handl...

A fresh Western Disturbance has begun impacting Jammu Kashmir, with the Meteorological Department predicting rain in the Jammu plains tonight and light snowfall in parts of the Kashmir. The weather system, which commenced earlier today, is expected to bring temporary but significant changes to the region's conditions. “Rainfall will likely affect the lower plains of Jammu, while higher altitudes in the Valley may experience light snowfall,” stated an official from the Meteorological Department. Authorities have issued advisories for travelers, urging caution in areas prone to road closures and reduced visibility. The weather changes may temporarily disrupt normal activities, especially in the higher reaches of the Valley.

Cyber cell of Kulgam Police has successfully resolved several cases of online financial fraud, recovering a total of ₹13,69,377. Multiple complaints were received involving fraudulent schemes amounting to ₹13,69,377. These scams involved fake investment opportunities where victims were promised high returns for additional deposits. Acting swiftly, the Cyber Police Kulgam collected evidence and necessary information from the victims. Using advanced cyber means, they managed to freeze the fraudulent transactions. An amount of ₹13,69,377/- was held and recovered and thereof it was successfully credited back to the victims. Kulgam Police, in a press release, has urged public to remain cautious against online scams, such as fake trading platforms. Avoid clicking on suspicious ...

The recent increase in the prices of bakery products in Kashmir Valley has left the public concerned. Traditional Kashmiri bakery items such as "cake," "girda," "coconut cookies," and "bagerkhani," which are an integral part of every household's daily diet, are now becoming unaffordable for many. According to bakery owners, the primary reasons for the price hike include the rising costs of raw materials such as wheat, sugar, and other ingredients. They said further the increased electricity and gas bills have further added to their expenses. A prominent bakery owner said, "We were compelled to raise prices to sustain our businesses. The costs have risen so much that it is no longer feasible to operate at the old prices." On the other hand, ordinary citizens have expressed their...

Suhail Dar Hapatnar, a picturesque village in Aishmuqam, known for its sprawling meadows and serene landscapes, has long been a symbol of Kashmir’s natural beauty. Today, however, the village is gripped by grief and horror, its tranquil surroundings overshadowed by the shocking murder of a young woman. The air here, once filled with the sound of chirping birds, now carries whispers of sorrow and disbelief. Shabnam Akhtar, a 30-year-old pregnant mother of one, had been missing since October 4 last year. For months, her family hoped for her return, clinging to the explanations given by her husband, Imran Khan, who claimed she had run away. It wasn’t until police intensified their investigation that the grim truth came to light. Shabnam had been brutally murdered by her husband an...

Lal Ded Hospital, Srinagar's key maternal and child healthcare facility, reported a troubling surge in infant mortality in 2024, with 297 newborn deaths compared to 142 in 2023—marking a nearly twofold increase. Over the past five years, the hospital has recorded approximately 900 infant deaths, reflecting a steady upward trend. The alarming increase has raised concerns, as available data reveals a consistent upward trend in infant deaths over the past five years. The hospital reported 130 infant deaths in 2020, 156 in 2021, and 168 in 2022, totaling around 900 fatalities during this period. The spike in fatalities has raised alarm among locals and health experts, who attribute the issue to staff shortages, inadequate resources, and insufficient neonatal care equipment. The dat...