Tuesday, April 7, 2026
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Moderate to heavy rains forecasts in J&K, authorities review flood preparedness

Srinagar: The authorities in Jammu & Kashmir on Monday said they have reviewed flood preparedness measures as weather experts predicted moderate to heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours in parts of the Valley.

Weather forecasters said that while most regions are likely to receive moderate rainfall, some areas in south Kashmir and Pir Panjal mountains may experience heavier showers, with chances of snowfall over higher reaches.

The current water levels, as per official monitoring data available with KNO, show all gauges are within the safe range.

Officials also confirmed that all water gauges are well below the warning mark, with only minor variations recorded through the day. Key readings at 6 PM Monday included:

Sangam: 1586.699 m (6.23 ft) – slightly falling; Pampore: 1584.054 m – falling; Ram Munshi Bagh: 1582.999 m (9.84 ft) – falling; Asham: 1578.121 m (6.13 ft) – slightly rising; Wular Lake: 1575.440 m – steady; Vishow Nallah (Khudwani): 1589.491 m – falling; Rambiyara Nallah (Wachi): 1588.850 m – falling; Lidder Nallah (Batkoot): 1955.136 m – rising; Sindh Nallah (Doderhama): 1581.747 m – rising.

It also showed: Pohru Nallah (Seelu): 1572.957 m – falling; Romshi Nallah (Aglar): 1867.421 m – falling; Aru Nallah (Pahalgam): 2138.619 m – rising; Sheshnag Nallah (Betab Valley): 2391.531 m – falling; Romshi Nallah (Pohu): 1586.808 m – falling; Aripal Nallah (Pastuna): 1818.149 m – falling; Doodganga Nallah (Brenwar): 1989.215 m – rising; Dachigam Nallah: 1597.200 m – falling; Erin Nallah (Papchan): 1597.272 m – falling; and Madumati Nallah (Sonarwani): 1643.589 m – rising.

Moreover, Independent forecaster Faizan Arif Keng said that while most regions are likely to receive moderate rainfall, some areas in South Kashmir and Pir Panjal mountains may experience heavier showers, with chances of snowfall over higher reaches.

“Over the next 24 hours, parts of Jammu and Kashmir are likely to witness moderate to heavy rainfall, with the main impact expected in Jammu, followed by South Kashmir and the Pir Panjal mountains, where heavy showers may even be accompanied by snowfall in the higher reaches,” said Faizan. He added that central Kashmir may receive only light to moderate rainfall, while North Kashmir and Poonch district are likely to remain the least affected. “People are advised to avoid trekking and unnecessary travel in the mountainous belts of south Kashmir and Jammu region,” he said.

Similarly, on Sunday, Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana chaired a high-level review meeting with engineers and officers of the Flood Control Department.

According to officials, the following measures are already in place: Round-the-clock monitoring of Jhelum, Ravi, Tawi rivers and tributaries; Flood Control Management Room at Ram Munshi Bagh fully operational; Kashmir Flood Watch App launched to provide real-time water level updates; Flood committees and zonal teams mobilized across districts; and emergency bags and flood equipment stocked at key locations.

Rana lauded the proactive role of the department and urged citizens to stay alert, cooperate with authorities, and make use of official updates.

Meanwhile, the officials also issued an advisory saying there is no immediate threat, but residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain watchful. People should avoid unnecessary travel in the mountainous belts of Jammu and South Kashmir during heavy rain spells, and citizens can access real-time water level data through the official Flood Watch App. (KNO)

First-ever day-night cricket tournament begins in Pulwama

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Srinagar: In a historic milestone for sports in south Kashmir, the region’s first-ever day-night cricket tournament kicked off at the Pulwama Sports Stadium on Monday evening, drawing an overwhelming crowd and generating excitement among local residents.

According to KNO, thousands of enthusiastic spectators gathered at the stadium to witness the inaugural match under floodlights, marking a new chapter in the district’s sporting history.

The tournament was inaugurated during a glittering opening ceremony attended by prominent dignitaries, including MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Para and J&K Sports Council Chairperson Nuzhat Gul. Both officials praised the initiative and pledged their full support to local athletes.

Speaking at the event, MLA Waheed Ur Rehman Para emphasised the importance of such tournaments, saying, “These events not only provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent but also serve as a positive outlet for youth energy. We are committed to supporting our athletes and fostering a culture of discipline, teamwork, and resilience.”

He added, “Pulwama is home to immense sporting talent, especially among the youth, who simply need the right opportunities and exposure. We will continue organising such tournaments to nurture and strengthen the abilities of our budding athletes.”

Nuzhat Gul, Chairperson of the J&K Sports Council, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Pulwama’s rich sporting potential. “It is truly inspiring to see such a massive turnout. The enthusiasm of the crowd and the dedication of the players underscore how vital sports are to our community. The Sports Council remains committed to encouraging and supporting initiatives that enhance sports infrastructure in the region,” she said.

She assured ongoing support: “We will continue to provide infrastructure and facilities to ensure the young generation has the best environment to excel in sports.”

The opening match, held under floodlights, was met with cheers from a packed audience, who described the atmosphere as electric and historic. Local youth expressed joy at experiencing a night cricket match in their hometown, something previously only seen on television during major national and international tournaments.

Residents and sports enthusiasts noted that the event has infused the town with a festive spirit. “We never imagined we’d witness a proper day-night cricket match here in Pulwama. It’s very special and motivating for our youth,” said Adil Ahmad, a local cricket enthusiast, who attended the match with friends.

The tournament, dubbed the Royal Premier League, features around three dozen teams and is expected to run over the coming weeks, with the final match also scheduled to be played under lights.

Organisers said that the event aims to promote local cricket talent and foster unity through sports in south Kashmir.

As the stadium lights shone brightly and cheers echoed through Pulwama, the launch of this tournament was celebrated not just as a sporting event but as a symbol of hope, talent, and community spirit. (KNO)

Social welfare schemes no charity: CM Omar

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Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said that it is the foremost duty of any government to fulfil the needs of the people, particularly those who have faced greater hardships than others.

Addressing a one-day event on “Empowering Communities—Welfare for All” at the SKICC, the Chief Minister, according to KNO said, “There was a time when social welfare schemes were considered as khairat (charity) or ehsan (favour), but in reality these are the legitimate rights of the underprivileged sections of society.”

“It’s the duty of every government to reach out to people who are in need. It is easy to reach those who don’t require assistance, but government schemes are not meant for people who already have all facilities. The focus has to be on the rural population and not just the urban centres,” the Chief Minister said.

He added that since taking office, he and his cabinet colleagues particularly Minister for Social Welfare Sakina Itoo have been striving to connect with the people at the grassroots level. “We have to make a beginning from where the people need the government the most. Our intention is to use government machinery to provide maximum benefit to those who need it the most,” he said.

Omar emphasized that true success would be when welfare schemes reach every village and household in need, and not remain confined to files and paperwork.

“What we have done so far is not enough. We are not fully satisfied, and we will continue our best efforts to ensure that no person in Jammu and Kashmir who needs government help is left behind,” he said.

He underlined the importance of inclusive growth, saying that the government’s policies are aimed at empowering communities and ensuring equitable development.

The Chief Minister said, “We knew we could not change everything overnight. But as the saying goes, drop by drop becomes an ocean. Our effort has always been to start where the need is greatest,” he added.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underlined the government’s paradigm shift from charity-driven welfare to a rights-based approach, ensuring that benefits reach those who need them the most.

He said that social protection measures are not favours, but the rightful entitlements of citizens facing socio-economic challenges.

The Chief Minister highlighted several flagship initiatives of his government, including enhanced marriage assistance for girls belonging to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), an increase in pensions for over 10 lakh beneficiaries, and the provision of free public transport facilities for women to promote mobility and safety.

He also spelled out about the upgradation of 500 Anganwadi Centres into Saksham Centres and Bal Vidyalayas, designed to provide integrated child development, education, and nutrition services. In addition, new facilities such as Shakti Sadans and Vatsalya Sadans established to extend institutional care and protection to women and children in need.

Omar Abdullah also called for greater corporate participation in welfare efforts.

Referring to schemes like distribution of scooters and assistive devices, he admitted that financial limitations sometimes delay benefits but stressed that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from big businesses could complement government efforts.

Another major challenge, he said, was the lack of awareness about government schemes in remote areas. “It would be unfair if people in one district enjoy a scheme while those in another remain deprived. The government belongs to all districts and all communities of J&K. Welfare benefits must reach every corner of the state,” the CM asserted.

He highlighted the success stories of education loans and scholarships that have enabled many students to pursue higher education, with some even becoming doctors. “This is what we must strive for—using schemes to improve the daily lives of ordinary people. That, I believe, is the highest responsibility of any government,” Omar Abdullah remarked.

The Chief Minister inaugurated an exhibition showcasing social welfare initiatives and schemes, and felicitated achievers who have made remarkable contributions in their fields. He also sanctioned loans in favour of women and disadvantaged groups, besides handing over prosthetic aids and scooties to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive empowerment.

He distributed keys of motorized cycles, sanction letters, and appreciation plaques to beneficiaries and achievers.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Social Welfare Sakina Itoo said that under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, special focus was laid on addressing the needs of weaker, downtrodden, and elderly citizens. She recalled that during his previous tenure, old-age and widow pensions were enhanced significantly, and the same was further increased in the current tenure.

She also highlighted women-centric schemes that have empowered women and made them self-reliant, while stressing the need for awareness campaigns in far-flung areas so that people-centric schemes percolate to the most deserving sections.

Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary SWD Sarmad Hafeez, several MLAs from Srinagar and other districts (via video conference), and senior officers of the Social Welfare Department participated in the programme. (KNO)

ICC event in Kashmir post-Pahalgam attack sent a strong message about Valley being safe: Dr Jitendra Singh

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Srinagar: Minister of State in Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) with independent charge Dr Jitendra Singh Monday said that Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) holding an event in Kashmir has sent a strong message that the Valley is safe and beautiful like earlier.

Speaking to the reporters at the sidelines of a function here, the Union Minister as per KNO said, “I congratulate the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) for conducting successfully three day program in Jammu and Kashmir.”

Singh said, ICC is one of the oldest chambers of India that started functioning some 100 years back.

“Having ICA in Kashmir post Pahalgam attack gives a strong message that the Valley is safe and beautiful like earlier,” he said.

The Union Minister further said that since the PM Narendra Modi government came into power, many business and trades have been boosted. “The Modi government has supported the private sector. Besides, under his leadership the public as well as private participation have been auspiciously welcomed.”

“The way economy of India is growing, we will soon become the top economical country. It will be possible only when we will have integrated approach of public and private sectors,” Singh said.

He also said, “Under PM Modi’s leadership, we have seen a ‘Purple revolution’ in terms of aromatic crops to lavender entrepreneurship from the Kashmir valley.”

Asked about the complaints of the people that they are suffering from losses and are unable to pay back the loans post Pahalgam attack, the Minister said, “I am sure that the government of Jammu and Kashmir will take care of it.”

“We have even opened the nuclear sector to the private sector this year. We believe that just as our country is moving forward at a rapid pace, our economy will reach from fourth to third, third to second, and second to first place.”

INAUGURATES DST INCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS INCUBATOR, IFACTORY LAB AT IUST

Earlier the Union Minister inaugurated the DST Inclusive Technology Business Incubator (i-TBI) and iFactory Lab at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, describing the initiative as a major step toward building a vibrant start-up ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

Announcing a Rs 5-crore support package from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Dr. Jitendra Singh said the central government is committed to hand-holding aspiring entrepreneurs from the Valley. “We are starting with 15 start-ups, and in the next three years, this number will grow to 30. The aim is to ensure that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir never miss the bus of India’s innovation revolution,” he said.

The Minister also unveiled a Technology Innovation Hub (TI Hub) and announced a 12-month faculty development programme, emphasizing that both students and teachers must embrace new-age knowledge to remain globally competitive. He highlighted that the iFactory Lab, set up under the Ministry of Heavy Industries’ C4i4 initiative, will expose students to Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics.

Framing the launch in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Dr. Jitendra Singh said IUST’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED-IUST Foundation) is a “model of how higher education institutions can integrate incubation, technology development, and start-up support.” Established in 2022, CIED has already drawn over Rs 1.20 crore from the university’s own resources and now hosts key national programs including the DST’s i-TBI scheme, DPIIT’s Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and SIDBI’s STEM programme.

Highlighting J&K’s demographic strengths—where over 65% of the population is under 35—Dr. Jitendra Singh said innovation and entrepreneurship are vital to tackling the region’s high youth unemployment rate. He pointed to potential sunrise sectors such as horti-agri tech, food processing, eco-tourism, handicrafts, and ICT applications, noting that Kashmir’s lavender-based “purple revolution” is already demonstrating how agri-startups can generate wealth and livelihoods. (KNO)

Indian forces responded to Pahalgam attack without religious bias: Rajnath Singh

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Srinagar: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Indian soldiers target terrorists for their actions, not their religion, unlike the Pahalgam attackers who identified victims by name and faith before killing them.

“Our soldiers do not act against anyone based on religion, but on their actions,” Singh said while speaking in Jodhpur at the inauguration of the Adarsh Defence and Sports Academy, as per KNO. “During the Pahalgam attack, terrorists asked people their names and religion before killing them. In response, our forces did not follow that path. We targeted terrorists based solely on their deeds.”

Under Operation Sindoor in May, Indian forces carried out precision strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir linked to terror groups.

“Our soldiers did not kill terrorists based on their religion but based on their deeds,” the Defence Minister said, adding that the set targets were hit with accuracy.

This operation shows that India’s security policy is based on action, not identity, Rajnath said. “The full support from civilians in border areas proves that national security isn’t only the duty of the armed forces or the government, it is a shared responsibility of every citizen,” he added.

Between May 7 and 10, Indian forces were engaged in a skirmish with Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack that left 26 tourists dead.

The Defence Minister said the armed forces responded effectively and fully achieved their objectives, adding that if any misadventure occurs in the future, the response will be even stronger than before.

Singh hailed the role of youth, saying they showed strong determination during the operation. He said India follows the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning the world is one family. “India does not discriminate based on caste or religion,” he said.

Rajnath also spoke about changes in the education sector. He said the progress made in recent years reflects India’s strength. “The difference we now see in education compared to the past is the real change and the future of India,” he said.

He further said that reforms in education have been difficult. As Education Minister in Uttar Pradesh, he had introduced a law to curb cheating. “In the next Assembly elections, I was defeated by the opposition candidate who had promised to scrap the anti-cheating law,” he said.

The Adarsh Defence and Sports Academy, inaugurated by Singh, is part of a project with an estimated cost of Rs 110 crore, of which Rs 30 crore has been used under the Lalsagar project.

The Defence Minister said education should contribute to physical, mental and spiritual development. “Honour and self-respect are essential for a person and the country, and whenever these are challenged, a reply is given,” he said. (KNO)

Kashmir wetlands witness record over 1.3 million birds this season, marking 65% rise in 6 years

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Srinagar: Kashmir’s wetlands have turned into a bustling haven for migratory birds this season, witnessing an unprecedented surge with 13.43 lakh birds representing 67 species flocking to the Valley. Over the past six years, the water bird population in these wetlands has shown a major upward trend of up to 65 per cent.

According to the census document accessed by KNO, a total of 1,343,506 birds belonging to 67 species were recorded across 26 wetlands. Hokersar contributed 29.97% of the total bird count, followed by Shallabugh (29.44%) and other wetlands (40.59%). Eurasian Teal (Anas crecca) with 292,039 individuals (22.17% of total bird count) was the most abundant species, followed by Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) with 226,023 individuals (17.16%) and Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata) with 209,715 individuals (15.92%).

The seven bird species—Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Eurasian Teal (Anas crecca), Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra), Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata), Gadwall (Mareca strepera), and Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca penelope)—constituted 91.08% of the total birds counted during the AWC 2025.

An in-depth assessment and analysis of waterbird count data from the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) over the period 2019–2025 demonstrates notable trends in population dynamics of major wintering species in the wetlands of Kashmir. Among these, the Eurasian Teal (Anas crecca) consistently recorded the highest abundance, reaching 336,053 individuals in 2022 and 292,039 in 2025, suggesting a stable preference for the region’s shallow, vegetated wetlands.

These trends can be meaningfully correlated with the implementation of wetland management interventions, particularly the construction of bunds and habitat restoration for water retention. Bund creation has been instrumental in maintaining stable water levels during critical wintering months, directly enhancing the foraging and roosting conditions for dabbling ducks such as the Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata), and Gadwall (Mareca strepera), which all showed relatively high and stable counts in recent years. The Northern Shoveler population, for instance, increased dramatically from 53,868 in 2019 to 209,715 in 2025, a change that aligns with improved water retention capacity and reduced human disturbance in managed zones.

Over the span of the last six years, from 2020 to 2025, the water bird population in the wetlands of Kashmir has shown a remarkable upward trend, rising from 813,043 individuals in 2020 to 1,343,506 in 2025, marking a significant 65.28% increase over the period. This increase of over half a million birds demonstrates the success of sustained conservation efforts and wetland management strategies implemented by the Department of Wildlife Protection, Jammu and Kashmir.

One of the most impactful measures contributing to this growth has been the creation of bunds and the installation of regulatory gates in major wetland Ramsar sites such as Hokersar, Hygam, and Shallabugh, which improved water retention capacity and helped maintain stable water levels throughout the migratory and breeding seasons. Desilting efforts, particularly intensified after 2020, rejuvenated open water areas and improved the depth and quality of aquatic habitats, directly correlating with the spike in bird numbers in 2021 and 2022.

Habitat restoration activities, including the removal of invasive weeds and promotion of native aquatic vegetation, contributed to increased habitat heterogeneity, attracting a more diverse array of water birds. Peripheral channels were restored and regularly maintained, reducing habitat fragmentation and supporting both core and buffer zones of the wetland. Solid waste management initiatives significantly reduced pollution and human disturbance, improving the overall health of the ecosystem.

Another key intervention was continuous water quality monitoring, which allowed timely action to address issues such as eutrophication and pH imbalances. Equally important were anti-poaching measures, including intensified patrolling and community compliance programs, which minimised threats during peak migratory influx and protected critical roosting areas.

The upward census trend over the past six years is not merely a reflection of migratory patterns but a direct outcome of holistic, science-based wetland management. (KNO)

FDA J&K’s crackdown on rotten meat, cheese, rasgulla on; violators’ list to be out soon 

Srinagar: As the people await violators to be held accountable and face public scrutiny for selling rotten meat and other food products the much-awaited list is set to be made public within the next few days.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified raids in Jammu and Kashmir, seizing 12,000 kg of meat, 21 quintals of synthetic cheese, and 440 quintals of Rasgulla ahead of the festival season.

Smita Sethi, Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, speaking to KNO said inspections are ongoing. “Yesterday, a big raid was carried out in Jammu. Today, around 100 kg of synthetic cheese was seized, bringing the total seized products to 12,000 kg of meat, 21 quintals of cheese, and 440 quintals of Rasgulla,” she said.

She added that the Rasgulla’s were expired, torn, kept in cold storage in tins without packaging or labeling, and likely to flood markets. “They had no proper storage solution, so we destroyed them,” Sethi said.

On the meat supply chain and its movement to the Valley, she said it appears to be ‘smuggled’. “Yesterday’s cheese seizure came through railways after a tip-off from Railway Police. Rotten and expired oil in 78 tins was also recovered,” she said.

Commissioner Sethi added that the seized meat lacked proper storage conditions. “The owners have not disclosed the source. Some consignments have names associated, and we are trying to establish links, especially regarding the cheese,” she said.

She confirmed that investigations are progressing, and a “list of violators, including license details, will be published within a few days.”

Regarding food testing, Sethi said 12 reports have been received — four unsafe, four standard, and four in bad condition and unfit for consumption. “Unsafe samples contained only synthetic colors; no major harmful elements, viral or cancer-causing agents, were found,” she clarified.

The Commissioner assured that strict enforcement will continue to safeguard consumers across Jammu and Kashmir, with drives ongoing throughout the Union Territory. Notably, J&K FDA earlier ordered strict compliance with FSSAI rules for the sale of frozen meat and chicken products.

“Violators face fines up to Rs 10 lakh, seizure of stock, license cancellation, and even six years’ imprisonment under the Food Safety Act,” said an official. (KNO)

Parliamentary committee on Home Affairs set to visit J&K

Srinagar: The Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs is scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir in the first week of September.

Sources told KNO that the panel is expected to arrive on September 01 and remain in the region for five to six days.

Headed by BJP MP Radha Mohan Das Agarwal, the committee comprises 31 members, including prominent leaders such as Priyanka Gandhi, Kapil Sibal, Supriya Sule, Ajay Maken, and Derek O’Brien, among others.

Sources revealed that the panel is likely to meet representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), members of civil society, and the business community to gather insights and feedback about different matters.

The committee was initially scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir on April 26. However, the visit was postponed at the last moment following a terrorist attack on tourists at Baisaran in Pahalgam on April 22, which tragically claimed 26 lives.

Meanwhile, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg today review preparations for the visit.

The meeting was attended by deputy commissioners of Srinagar, Baramulla, Bandipora, and Ganderbal, along with senior officials from Srinagar Airport, Rural Development, Health, Tourism, Education, Police, CRPF, and various development authorities.b(KNO)

Apex Court made assembly election in J&K possible, hope its intervention will lead to statehood restoration: CM Omar  

Srinagar: Stating the assembly elections in J&K were held due to the Supreme Court setting a deadline for the exercise, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday exuded hope that the Apex Court would follow the suit and set a timeframe for restoration of J&K’s statehood.

Talking to reporters here, CM Omar, according to KNO said, “It is unfortunate that the Supreme Court is not ready to hear this matter (statehood restoration) before October 10. We hope that when it comes up, the Court will impose a time limit and we will get statehood back soon.”

He said that the government led by him wants the early hearing of the case. “The assembly elections in J&K were held after 5-years only due to the Supreme Court’s intervention. The Apex Court’s ultimatum to the Centre led to the formation of a popular government in J&K,” he said.

The Chief Minister said, “It has been more than 10 months of our government and from the first day we have been seeking statehood restoration. The first cabinet meeting of our government also focussed on the same issue and we passed the resolution as well.”

He said that when he met the Prime Minister for the first time after assuming office of the Chief Minister, he stressed that J&K should get back its statehood and since then he has been reiterating his demand. “The Centre has not responded till date but we are hopeful that the Supreme Court will do the justice,” he said.

Asked about the protest of PDP against the youth languishing in jails, CM Omar said, “We are all worried about this matter. We can’t do anything to it in Srinagar. The decisions of security of Jammu and Kashmir are being taken in New Delhi by the Union Home Ministry. It will be better for them (PDP) to visit Delhi and meet the Home Minister and discuss the issue.” (KNO)

26 students of Shah-e-Hamdan seminary Tangdhar complete Hifz

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Srinagar: A total of 26 students of Shah-e-Hamdan seminary in Tangdhar area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district have completed the memorization of the Holy Quran, attaining the title of Hafiz-e-Quran.

The seminary held a special religious function to mark the occasion, where the students were felicitated in presence of teachers, scholars, and locals. The event was attended by a large gathering from Tangdhar and adjoining areas who expressed joy over the achievement of the young students.

Religious scholars present at the function lauded the dedication and perseverance of the students and their teachers. They said the accomplishment was not only a matter of pride for the seminary but also for the entire community.

The participants prayed for the success of the new Hafiz-e-Quran in their future endeavours and urged the younger generation to seek both religious and modern education for a balanced life. (KNT)