Saturday, April 4, 2026
Home Blog Page 106

9 foreigners undertake Amarnath Yatra; ‘Amazing hospitality, I am very happy to be here’

Srinagar: Nine foreign nationals from six countries, including the United States, Germany, and Canada, have undertaken the annual Amarnath Yatra this year, reveal the figures available with KNO.

“I am experiencing some beautiful geology and nature in Kashmir, and the immense energy of the holy cave,” said Ross Norman Leach, a Canadian pilgrim, after visiting the cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,880 metres.

Leach said his group had been preparing for the yatra for the past four to five years. “I had tears coming out of my eyes at the cave and a deep silence inside. The whole world is connected in these energies. Meeting Mahadev here — in deep silence, meeting consciousness — is very, very special,” he said.

Calling it a “very special experience,” Leach said the yatra is not just spiritual but transformative. “The trek is challenging; you must be ready for it. But it is very much worth it. If you get a chance, if you feel the call to come here, come. It is a powerful place,” he said.

Praising the arrangements and local hospitality, he said, “The hospitality has been amazing. I am very happy to be here.”

Another foreign devotee described the experience as deeply fulfilling. “We look forward to coming back at some point soon. It was wonderful, and we felt very taken care of, supported, and very safe,” he said. (KNO)

3.5 lakh undertake Amarnath Yatra since July 3; More than 9,000 perform darshan on Thursday

Srinagar: The annual Amarnath Yatra continued on Thursday with around 9,000 pilgrims paying obeisance at the holy cave shrine, nestled in Himalayas, in Kashmir.

Officials told KNO that with this, the cumulative figure of devotees who have undertaken the pilgrimage since its commencement on July 3 has reached 3.52 lakh. “A total of 9,482 pilgrims performed darshan at the sacred cave on Thursday. Among them were 6,805 men, 2,130 women, 137 children, 73 sadhus, 3 sadhvis, 4 transgender persons, and 330 security personnel,” they added.

While the footfall at the shrine remained good, the number of pilgrims departing from Jammu—the starting point for most yatris—has shown a consistent downward trend over the past few days.

From 7,908 pilgrims on July 18, the number dropped to 6,365 on July 19, 4,388 on July 20, 3,791 on July 21, 3,536 on July 22, 2,837 on July 23, and 3,500 on Thursday.

“Even though there is a slight decline in pilgrim turnout from Jammu, the overall yatra is proceeding without disruptions. All necessary facilities including shelter, food, medical assistance, and route security are fully operational,” an official said.

Of these, the first escorted convoy of 45 vehicles carrying 832 yatris left for the Baltal base camp, while the second convoy of 95 vehicles carrying 2,668 yatris left the Pahalgam base camp, officials said.

This year’s Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to conclude on August 9. (KNO)

Kashmir mutton dealers suspend livestock supply over Punjab ‘extortion’

Srinagar: In a step likely to affect meat supply across Kashmir, the Mutton Dealers Association of Kashmir on Thursday suspended the transportation of live animals from outside states, citing daily extortion and harassment at checkpoints in Punjab and other parts of India.

The association expressed regret to the public, especially families with upcoming weddings and functions, but said they are unable to continue under the current circumstances. They have repeatedly appealed to the government for intervention, but claim no concrete action has been taken.

Speaking to KNO, Mehrajuddin Ganai, General Secretary of the association, said the decision was made after their pleas went unaddressed. “Our vehicles are routinely stopped at Shambu and Madhopur checkpoints in Punjab. Truckers are forced to pay bribes ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. Today alone, over 50 sheep died due to heat and delays. This is a huge loss, and we simply cannot continue like this,” he said.

Ganaie said the issue has continued for a long time, despite multiple meetings with officials, including J&K’s Food and Supplies Minister Satish Sharma. “We have repeatedly asked for help, but no action has been taken. We are sorry to the public, but we are helpless. This is not a strike; it is a forced decision,” he said.

Mehrajuddin informed that the association has notified their suppliers in Rajasthan, Sikar, Firozpur, Delhi, and Ambala about the suspension and has received full support. “Everyone is suffering; this is not just our problem. The administration must act,” he urged.

He called on the J&K government, especially Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, to send a high-level team to Punjab to assess the situation firsthand. “We are ready to provide any documents or details needed for the investigation. But immediate action is necessary,” he said.

Recalling a similar crisis in 2016, when a cabinet minister was sent to Punjab and the issue was addressed, Ganai expressed hope for a similar response now. “This isn’t just about trade; it’s about the livelihoods of thousands and the food security of Kashmir,” he said.

He called for establishing a permanent solution and a monitoring mechanism to ensure the smooth movement of livestock, especially during peak wedding and festival seasons. “If extortion and harassment continue, we will be forced to suspend operations indefinitely. The government’s response will determine our next steps,” Ganaie warned.

The suspension is expected to significantly affect the availability of meat in Kashmir, which heavily relies on livestock imports from northern Indian states. (KNO)

Power deficit issue reducing in J&K: GoI

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir continues to witness improvement in its power supply position despite limited installed power generation capacity compared to other Indian states, according to the Ministry of Power’s response in the Lok Sabha.

According to KNO, as per the data shared in response to a question raised by Dr. Shashi Tharoor, the Union Territory’s installed power generation capacity as of June 30, 2025, stands at 3,624.42 megawatts (MW).

This includes 3,360 MW from hydroelectric sources and 264.42 MW from renewable energy sources other than large hydro. The region does not have any installed capacity from coal, gas, diesel, lignite, or nuclear sources.

In terms of power supply performance, Jammu & Kashmir has seen a significant decline in its power deficit over recent years. In the financial year 2019-20, the region registered an 18.8% power deficit, with 3,767 million units (MU) of energy not supplied against a requirement of 20,025 MU. This figure decreased to 12.9% in 2020-21 and further to 7.6% in 2021-22.

In FY 2022-23, the deficit dropped to 1.6%, and in FY 2023-24 it stood at 1.4%. The most recent data from FY 2024-25 shows a further reduction, with a deficit of only 0.4%, or 90 MU of energy not supplied out of a requirement of 20,374 MU.

Provisional data for the current financial year (up to June 2025) indicates a power requirement of 4,854 MU, of which 4,848 MU was supplied, showing a deficit of 6 MU, or 0.1%.

The Union Ministry stated that India’s national transmission infrastructure is adequately developed to allow reliable power transfer across regions, which has helped mitigate supply deficits in regions like Jammu & Kashmir.

The inter-regional transmission capacity has increased from 75,050 MW in 2016-17 to 1,20,340 MW as of June 2025, and it is projected to reach 1,43,000 MW by 2027 and 1,68,000 MW by 2032.

This transmission network enables surplus power from other states to be directed to deficit-prone areas such as Jammu & Kashmir, effectively managing regional disparities in power availability without major transmission bottlenecks.

The Ministry further said that the development of power generation capacity in states is influenced by factors including fuel source availability, demand growth, and logistical and infrastructure readiness. (KNO)

India-UK trade pact likely to boost Kashmir’s handicrafts, artisan exports

Srinagar: While the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) does not mention Kashmir specifically, stakeholders in the region’s traditional handicraft sector believe the deal could bring new global opportunities, especially with the zero-duty access on 99 percent of Indian exports, including labour-intensive sectors like textiles, leather, footwear and handicrafts.

Signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, details accessed by KNO reveals that the agreement is hailed as a major step in economic integration.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, stressed that the pact would empower artisans, women-led enterprises and MSMEs, which form a vital part of India’s export ecosystem.

Stakeholders believe this could positively impact Kashmir’s traditional sectors as well. Globally renowned crafts such as Pashmina shawls, Sozni embroidery, Papier-mache, walnut wood carving and Kani weaving are likely to benefit from easier access to the UK market, reduced export costs and expanded demand.

Local entrepreneurs and exporters see the development as a positive step.

Abdul Rashid Wani, a carpet exporter from Srinagar, said that if properly implemented, this agreement can be a turning point for Kashmir’s artisan community.

He said the UK has always had a demand for handmade Kashmiri products. “With zero duty, our pricing becomes competitive,” he said.

Officials believe the agreement opens new avenues for ‘Kashmiri women entrepreneurs and youth-led startups’, many of whom are engaged in craft, fashion and design. The Ministry of Commerce has indicated that efforts will be made to link regional industries with global value chains under the new framework.

Traders and exporters say the deal could help address the already existing slowdown in Kashmir’s export sector, particularly as machine-made alternatives increasingly threaten traditional handmade products.

Notably, with Kashmir’s artisan economy already supporting thousands of families, stakeholders hope CETA will not only drive economic benefits but also aid in the preservation of craft traditions, making them more viable in the global marketplace. (KNO)

India, UK Sign Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement

New Delhi: In a historic move towards building a stronger economic partnership, India and the United Kingdom on Thursday signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

According to the details available with KNO, the agreement was signed by Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal and Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of the two Prime Ministers.

Officials said that this FTA marks a significant milestone in India’s engagement with major developed economies and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening economic integration. “As the world’s fourth and sixth largest economies respectively, India and the UK’s bilateral engagement holds global economic significance. The signing of the India-UK CETA follows the successful conclusion of negotiations announced on 6th May 2025. The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at nearly USD 56 billion, with a joint goal to double this figure by 2030,” they added.

As per the officials CETA secures unprecedented duty-free access for 99% of India’s exports to the UK, covering nearly the entire trade basket. “This is expected to open new opportunities for labour-intensive industries such as textiles, marine products, leather, footwear, sports goods, toys, and gems and jewellery, alongside fast-growing sectors like engineering goods, auto components, and organic chemicals,” they added.

“The services sector, a strong driver of India’s economy, will also see wide-ranging benefits. The agreement provides greater market access in IT and IT-enabled services, financial and legal services, professional and educational services, and digital trade. Indian professionals, including those deployed by companies to work in UK across all services sectors, professionals deployed on contracts such as architects, engineers, chefs, yoga instructors, and musicians, will benefit from simplified visa procedures and liberalised entry categories, making it easier for talent to work in the UK,” the officials said.

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, conveyed profound gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership and resolute commitment, which have been instrumental in achieving this historic agreement.

“This CETA marks a milestone in the trade relations between two major economies, setting an ambitious and balanced framework. It unlocks tariff-free access on 99% of Indian exports to the UK, covering nearly 100% of trade value- including labour-intensive sectors advancing the ‘Make in India’ initiative and setting the stage for bilateral trade to double by 2030,” they added,

The CETA includes ambitious commitments in goods and services, covering various sectors, while enhancing mobility for Indian professionals by simplifying access for contractual service providers, business visitors, and independent professionals. The innovative Double Contribution Convention will exempt Indian workers and their employers from UK social security contributions for three years, boosting competitiveness and earnings. “This FTA will serve as a catalyst for inclusive growth, benefiting farmers, artisans, workers, MSMEs, startups, and innovators while safeguarding India’s core interests and accelerating our journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.”

“India has also secured an agreement on the Double Contribution Convention. This will exempt Indian professionals and their employers from social security payments in the UK for up to three years, improving the cost competitiveness of Indian talent.

The agreement has been designed to make trade more inclusive. Women and youth entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen, startups, and MSMEs will gain new access to global value chains, supported by provisions that encourage innovation, promote sustainable practices, and reduce non-tariff barriers,” the officials said, adding, “The CETA is expected to boost trade volumes significantly in the coming years, creating jobs, expanding exports, and supporting a deeper, more resilient economic relationship between India and the United Kingdom.” (KNO)

Concept of Viksit Bharat incomplete without Viksit J&K: LG Sinha

Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Thursday said that the concept of Viksit Bharat is incomplete without the Viksit (Development) of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) during the concluding ceremony of the Viksit Bharat @2047 Yuva Connect Program, Sinha as per KNO said, “The question is how Viksit Bharat will be created, I think until and unless we will make Jammu and Kashmir developed (Viksit), the idea of Viksit Bharat is incomplete. Until and unless the district Pulwama is developed, Jammu and Kashmir won’t be developed.”

“I think the way IUST have shown transformation and development, it has a huge potential to boost the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. There is a need for more such universities for the Viksit Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

The LG further said that “I take pride in saying that IUST implemented the New Education Policy (NEP) in letter and spirit.”

“I wish to see young people of Jammu and Kashmir taking part and performing their important role in the Viksit Bharat journey,” Sinha said.

He further said that in the past four years, the development not only in Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education but across the country will motivate all the educational institutions.

LG Sinha added that he dreams of seeing every university and all educational institutes of Jammu and Kashmir drug free.

“We must conduct anti-drug drives in all educational institutes. In every university, there should be a ‘Say No To Drugs’ student association and under the supervision of faculty members there should be an early warning mechanism. In all universities, we should prepare a Confidential Reporting System,” the LG said.

LG Sinha further added that “Besides counseling and support system, we must also devise a mechanism wherein we can bring the content related drug-de addiction in the curriculum to spread awareness from the basics.”

He urged the VC of IUST to work on this initiative with his team.

About the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect, the LG said, “As we all know that on August-12, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi will formally launch Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect and 1339 students and other faculty members of all universities will join it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will facilitate all of the students and staff.”

“Vice Chancellor of IUST informed me that from the registration on My Bharat Portal to Youth Parliamentary imitative, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Debate Competition etcetera, the students of the varsity are taking part positively,” LG Sinha said.

He also said “I was also informed that from the past two weeks, students from science, literature, technology, management, philosophy and journalism, all the minds of different disciplines all-together have discussed the goals on nation building.”

“Because of the long slavery, the British looted our major resources and properties, according to an estimate the British looted our 45 trillion dollars from India. We must take pride in the fact that we are taking India again to the same development soon,” LG Sinha said.

The LG added that “In past ten years, the way India has seen rapid development, that is worth appreciating. From 2014, there is a historical milestone for India’s economy. India overtakes from 11th position to 4th position in the past eleven years.”

“As we are already sharing 15 percent of world GDP but once we start again sharing 25 percent and 33 percent to it, we will be in Viksit Bharat,” he said.

LG Sinha further said, “I think India can achieve new heights with the IUST and other universities in terms of their potential in science and modern technology in balance with culture and spirituality.” (KNO)

CETA blueprint for shared prosperity of India, UK: PM Modi

New Delhi: Terming the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom as historic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that this agreement is more than just an economic partnership; it is also a blueprint for shared prosperity.

Addressing an official function in United Kingdom after signing the agreement, PM Modi, according to KNO said, “This agreement will unlock new opportunities for India’s agricultural produce and processed food industry and would also pave the way for enhanced market access in the UK for Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods. Above all, this agreement will be especially beneficial for India’s youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector.’

He said, “Due to this agreement UK-made products such as medical devices and aerospace components will become more accessible and affordable for Indian consumers and industries.”

“Alongside the trade agreement, a consensus has also been reached on the Double Contribution Convention. This will inject new momentum into the service sectors of both countries, particularly in technology and finance. It will enhance the ease of doing business, reduce operational costs, and boost confidence of doing business. Additionally, the UK economy will benefit from access to skilled Indian talent,” PM Modi added.

“These agreements will boost bilateral investment and generate new employment opportunities in both countries. Moreover, these agreements between two vibrant democracies and major global economies, will also contribute to strengthening global stability and shared prosperity,” he said.

VISION 2035 WILL SERVE AS ROADMAP FOR STRONG, TRUSTED, AND AMBITIOUS PARTNERSHIP

“To infuse new momentum and energy into our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership over the next decade, Vision 2035 is being launched. This will serve as a roadmap for a strong, trusted, and ambitious partnership in the areas of technology, defence, climate, education, and people-to-people connectivity,” PM Modi said.

“A Defence Industrial Roadmap has been developed to deepen our collaboration in defence and security. We will also work to further strengthen our Technology Security Initiative,” he said, adding, “It is our commitment that, from AI to Critical Minerals, Semiconductors to Cyber Security, we shall create the future together.”

“In the field of education as well, both our countries are writing a new chapter together. Six universities from the UK are opening campuses in India. Just last week, the University of Southampton inaugurated its campus in Gurugram, India,” he said.

THANKS PM STAMMER, HIS GOVT FOR CONDEMNING PAHALGAM TERROR ATTACK

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Starmer and his government for their strong condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians dead, PM Modi said, “We are united in our view that there can be no place for double standards in the fight against terrorism. We also agree that forces with extremist ideologies must not be allowed to misuse democratic freedoms. Those who misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy itself must be held to account.”

He said, “On the matter of extradition of economic offenders as well, our agencies will continue to work together in close coordination and cooperation.”

TODAY’S ERA DEMANDS DEVELOPMENT, NOT EXPANSIONISM

“We have continued to share our perspectives on peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the situation in West Asia. We support early restoration of peace and stability. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries is essential. Today’s era demands development, not expansionism,” PM Modi said.

LAST MONTH’S TRAGIC ACCIDENT UNFORTUNATE 

Referring to the plane crash of England bound Air India flight near Ahmedabad last month, PM Modi said, “Last month, in the tragic accident that took place in Ahmedabad, several of those who lost their lives were our brothers and sisters from the UK. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families.”

“The people of Indian origin living in the UK serve as a living bridge in our relationship. They did not just bring curry from India, but also creativity, commitment, and character. Their contribution is not limited to the UK’s thriving economy — it is equally visible in the country’s culture, sports, and public service,” he added.

FOR BOTH OF US CRICKET NOT JUST A GAME BUT A PASSION

“I would be remiss not to mention cricket when India and the UK are coming together, especially during a Test series. For both of us cricket is not just a game but a passion. And also, a great metaphor for our partnership. There may be a swing and a miss at times. But we always play with a straight bat. We are committed to building a high scoring solid partnership.

The agreements concluded today, along with our Vision 2035, are milestones that carry forward this very spirit.” (KNO)

Protest at SMHS Hospital as attendant assaults doctor after patient’s death

Srinagar: Tensions ran high at Srinagar’s SMHS Hospital on Wednesday after a shocking incident in which a young resident doctor from Uttar Pradesh was assaulted by an attendant of a critically ill patient who later succumbed to his condition.

As per the details obtained by KNO, the incident reportedly took place late Tuesday night in the hospital’s emergency ward.

Officials said the attendant became aggressive after the patient’s death and physically attacked Dr Shahnawaz – who himself is a specially-abled person due to polio – in full public view.

A CCTV video capturing the moment the doctor was assaulted has since gone viral on social media, sparking outrage across the medical community and beyond.

Dr Shahnawaz said the incident took place at around 12:15 am on Tuesday. “I was at the medical reception when the patient was brought in. After assessing the patient, his vitals were not recorded, and he was sent to the triage room for further investigation. Unfortunately, the patient later died,” he said. “Following the death, an attendant in his 40s came and kicked me. There are no consultants, CMOs, or security personnel present at night, making it extremely risky for us to work under such conditions. We are here to serve patients, not to be assaulted. We demand a thorough investigation and legal action against the perpetrator.”

Family alleges medical negligence

This incident, as per the family of the deceased, came to the fore after a patient named Javid Ahmad, an employee of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), died due to alleged medical negligence at SMHS hospital.

Family members of Javid told KNO that he had some pain in his heart and was brought to the hospital, where both the patient and attendants were pleading with doctors to keep him on oxygen. However, they claimed that doctors repeatedly denied this request.

The family said that even when Javid’s condition deteriorated, the same doctor who was later assaulted ignored his worsening state and asked for some medicine to be brought from outside.

Once his brother-in-law brought the medicine, they said Javid died, and doctors were laughing. In anger, his brother-in-law slapped the doctor, the family said.

They, however, said that slapping a doctor is wrong and sought an apology, but also added that alleged medical negligence led to Javid’s death.

Family members demanded access to the CCTV footage of the incident, saying it would clearly reveal how negligence led to Javid’s death. They called for an independent investigation and warned that anyone involved in negligence must face consequences.

Doctors protest, demand permanent security

The incident sparked a massive protest by resident doctors, interns, and other healthcare professionals from GMC Srinagar and its affiliated hospitals. Hundreds gathered within the hospital premises, raising slogans and demanding immediate action against the attacker. They also called for the implementation of robust, permanent security measures across all government healthcare facilities.

“We’re not here to be assaulted; we are here to save lives,” a protesting doctor stated. “This is not an isolated incident. Such attacks are becoming too frequent, and we cannot continue working in constant fear.”

The protesting doctors also expressed concern over alleged attempts to discourage them from speaking out. “We were told to stay silent, but how long can we remain silent while our safety is at risk?” questioned another doctor.

GMC Srinagar condemns assault

GMC Srinagar issued a statement condemning the assault. The administration said hospitals are “public institutions serving humanity” and appealed to the public, especially patient attendants, to remain calm and respectful during times of distress.

“Our doctors and staff are working round-the-clock under immense pressure. Any violence against them is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.

The college confirmed that legal action has been initiated, with an FIR (No. 11/2025) registered at the concerned police station. A senior police official confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and the accused will be brought to justice soon.

Doctors have warned that if their safety concerns are not addressed promptly, they may escalate their protests. “Today it was Dr Shahnawaz. Tomorrow, it could be any of us. We cannot perform our duties unless we feel safe,” said a senior resident doctor.

The medical fraternity has appealed to the administration to ensure that hospitals remain safe spaces for both patients and healthcare providers. They have called for strict security measures to prevent future incidents.

It is noteworthy that this is the second such incident in Jammu and Kashmir in recent days. Last week, a female doctor at GMC Jammu was physically assaulted by a patient’s attendant following his death in the hospital’s emergency ward. In the aftermath, doctors went on a two-day strike, which was only called off after FIR lodging and assurances from authorities that action would be taken. (KNO)

MHA notifies resignation of Vice Prez Jagdeep Dhankhar

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has notified the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President of India.

According to the details available with KNO, the MHA vide its Gazette Notification S.O.3354(E) dated July 22, 2025 has notified the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President of India.

Pertinently, the Election Commission of India, under Article 324, is mandated to conduct the election to the office of the Vice President of India. The election to the office of the Vice President of India is governed by The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the rules made there under, namely The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Rules, 1974.

Accordingly, the Election Commission of India has already started the preparations relating to the Vice-Presidential Elections, 2025.

On completion of the preparatory activities, the announcement of the Election Schedule to the office of the Vice-President of India will follow as soon as possible.

Major pre-announcement activities which have already been started include:

Preparation of Electoral College which consists of elected as well as nominated members of Rajya Sabha as well as Lok Sabha, finalisation of Returning Officer/ Assistant Returning Officer(s), and preparation and dissemination of background material on all the previous vice-presidential elections. (KNO)