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Kashmir’s Ehsaas Foundation & Callisto Art partner with World Talent in online international art competition

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Amidst a world that continues to be divided by politics, borders, and challenges, the Valley of Kashmir provided an unlikely stage for a global celebration of art. Callisto Art & Culture’s 2nd International Online Art Competition in partnership with Ehsaas Foundation NGO Kashmir provided a space where more than a hundred artists from across nine countries came together and transformed the virtual platform into an obstacle-less gallery of imagination.

The event was conceived by Kashmiri visual artist Zahoor Kashmiri, founder of Callisto Art & Culture, who has always worked towards establishing avenues for cultural exchange and appreciation of art. “This competition has opened doors for participants from across the globe, providing Kashmiri artists with a chance to showcase their excellence at the international platform,” Zahoor asserted. “The best way to achieve your target is never to lose hope—keep trying, and success will follow.”

The partnership with Ehsaas Foundation NGO Kashmir, which is celebrated for Sufi ideas, cultural empowerment, and social welfare, spiritualized and socialized the competition. Vice Chairman Burhan Nazir thanked the jury and the participants and said that the competition reflected Kashmir’s desire to grow as a center of cultural diplomacy.

The panel for the jury comprised great names from across the globe. Prof. Zargar Zahoor, former Dean of Fine Arts at Jamia Millia Islamia, characterized the competition as being a harmonious mix of style and technique. Turkish artist Dr. Ceyhun Konak toasted the multicultural energy of the paintings, and Mexican painter Carlos Miguel Ramirez dubbed it “a virtual window into the cultures of the world.” Peruvian Daniel Gallegos Esquivias supplemented by stating that the event forged significant global connections at a time when people can’t really go anywhere. Locally, University of Kashmir Cultural Officer Shahid Ali Khan clarified that efforts such as these maintain creativity alive while mainstream institutions remain closed.

Kashmir was also sufficiently represented among highlighted artists. Mehak Mubeen exhibited Homeward and Sacred Threshold, while Syed Mursaleen exhibited Flux I & II. Dr. Zargar Adil Ahmad exhibited Impressions I & II, while Mudasir Rehman Dar exhibited his contemplative Peace Series. Asif Iqbal Khan presented Untitled and Surah Iklas, and Riyan Rafiq presented Islamic calligraphy. Suhaib Ahmad Hakeem, presenting two untitled paintings, Noureen, Enduring Patience and Divine Unity, Mir Andleeb, When Eyes Can’t Hold It Anymore and Salaam, Irtiqa Bazaz, The Eye of Dreams and Whispers of the Universe, Irtiza Sharief, Inside the Eyes and Eye Gaze, and Inju Hussain, Islamic calligraphy on canvas, were other Kashmiri artists.

Indian submissions from outside the state of Kashmir were impressive as well. Md Anirul Islam submitted Holy Bird-II and Tranquility-III, Karan Sharma submitted Khwahisho Ki Khidkiyan and Rozi Roti. Ya Hayy Ya Qayyum and Kaaba were submitted by Shabnam Rajpoot, Sureh al-Fatiha submitted by Shrieen Naaz and Astrolabe in Islam, and Sonjaye Maurya submitted Unity in Diversity and Universe. Jamal Ahmed Shamsuddoha exhibited Aytal Kursi and Dua, Surah Al-Baqarah, Jaspreet Mohan Singh exhibited Divine Lights and The Visionary, M. Akram Khan exhibited Nature I & II, and Neeraj Raina exhibited The Bull I & II. The series was succeeded by Shahed Pasha (King with his Soldiers, Lav Kush), Sualeha Khan (Serenity, Pond), Sumaid Pal Singh Baksh (The Departure, The Veil), and Zuhaib Wahid (Throne Verse, Echoes of an Infinite).

We received a colorful series of works from Malaysia. Hairol Masri Nokhil exhibited Perpetuity & Towards Immortality and Home of Clowder. Eda Tan Sew Lan presented Loving Couple and Strive, while Ain Yusof presented Fruits at Ease and Lotus Symphony. Nur Aniyah binti Anuar presented Tradition in Motion and Ngajat and Datun Julud, while Qaisarah Zainal wowed with Where the Light Found Me and Roads of Adaptation. Rozanah bt Ahmat presented Line and Beauty I & II.

Sri Lanka’s Chandani Jayathilaka showed Women I & II, and Sarath Gunasiri Perera showed Freedom Search I & II. Indonesia’s Tsabita Saifana took center stage with My Safe Place, My Warzone and Frogs and Lily Pads. Bangladesh was represented by Shah Raihan Sani, who showed The Kalimah and Ishq. Egypt’s Safaa Afifi showed untitled acrylic paintings, and from Pakistan, Maryam Kaleem Paracha showed two untitled acrylic paintings.

The variety of themes and styles imbued the competition with its own character. There were those who used cultural heritage, like Islamic calligraphy from India’s Kashmir and Bangladesh. Some used contemporary concerns and individual experience, as indicated by Indonesia’s My Safe Place, My Warzone or India’s Unity in Diversity. From the deployment of the traditional media like charcoal and acrylic to digital experiments, the competition was turned into a kaleidoscope of worldwide artistic practice.

Curator Tasaduq Hussain elaborated the premise behind the campaign: “When Covid had closed art schools and galleries, the artists felt left out. This competition, under the patronage of Ehsaas Foundation, kept the spark of imagination alive and earned them accolades on an international level.”

The 2nd International Online Art Competition was thus not just about ranking or popularity. It was about hope, inclusivity, and determination. For Kashmir, it was also about re-positioning itself to the world in the space of creativity and not conflict.

As Zahoor Kashmiri succinctly framed it: “By art, we express ourselves, but better, we connect humaneness. Having Ehsaas Foundation as our sponsor, this competition was a genuine celebration of global creativity.”

Pulwama Police, SYSF Host ‘She Leads’ event to celebrate women empowerment

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: A significant stride towards women empowerment was taken today at Women’s College Pulwama, where Pulwama Police in collaboration with save youth save future (SYSF), organized a event titled “She Leads, Women Empowerment.”

The initiative celebrated the achievements of women from Pulwama, acknowledged their contributions across diverse fields, and encouraged young girls to step forward with confidence and determination.

The program was graced by PD Nitya, SSP Pulwama, as the Chief Guest, alongside Anika Nazir, President, Women’s Wing (SYSF). Other distinguished dignitaries present included DySP Awantika Wazir, DySP Fiza Shah, Chief Medical Officer Pulwama, ARTO Pulwama, Principal Women’s College Pulwama, and Principal Girls Higher Secondary School Pulwama. District Coordinators of SYSF: Jasib Shabir (Pulwama), Rasik Ahmed Sheikh, Irshad Ahmed Bhat, Shabir Ahmad Sheikh (Budgam), and Amir Ahmed Sheikh (Srinagar) also actively participated.

The event featured inspirational addresses underscoring the importance of women’s role in education, resilience, and leadership. Ms. Anika Nazir delivered a motivational speech, reflecting on the historic and contemporary contributions of Kashmiri women in shaping society.

The Chief Guest, SSP Pulwama PD Nitya, in her keynote address, praised the achievements of Pulwama’s women and commended SYSF’s sustained efforts in the domain of youth empowerment. She reaffirmed the commitment of Pulwama Police to support such initiatives, remarking that “empowered women lead to empowered families and, ultimately, a stronger society.”

On the occasion, young achievers from Pulwama, Khushii, Aneesa Iqbal, Nisha Fayaz, Sundas Jan, Irtika Mehraj, Sheebu Ashraf, Shabrose Mehak, and Mehvish Ashraf, were felicitated for their remarkable contributions and excellence in their respective fields.

Additionally, dignitaries including ARTO Pulwama, CMO Pulwama, Principal Women’s College Pulwama, and Principal Girls Higher Secondary School Pulwama were honored for their valuable services and contributions to society.

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Shabir Ahmad Sheikh (District Coordinator, Budgam, SYSF), who extended heartfelt gratitude to Pulwama Police, dignitaries, achievers, and all participants for their support in making the initiative a success. The event ended with a strong message of unity, empowerment, and determination, reaffirming the collective resolve to build a future where the women of Pulwama lead with strength, dignity, and pride.

Died in Iran, Kashmir’s MBBS student laid to rest in Srinagar

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The mortal remains of Kashmiri MBBS student, Late Saba Rasool, who died in Iran earlier this week, reached Srinagar on Saturday and were laid to rest at her ancestral graveyard in Safa Kadal area of Srinagar amid tears and sobs.

After completing all formalities in Tehran and Delhi, her body was flown to the Valley and taken to her residence in an ambulance this afternoon.

As per the details collected by KNO, amid sobs and tears, the body of late Saba Rasool reached Srinagar this afternoon and was laid to rest.

The Nimaz-e-Jinazah was offered at Seki Daffer Park before the burial, in which a large number of people participated.

Similarly on Friday the family had said they had to pay expenses to return back the beloved family member’s body and only MEA was the one who helped them in Iran, and they are thankful for their support.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Advisor Nasir Sogami for ensuring dignified transportation from Srinagar Airport but flagged the “extraordinary hardships” faced by the grieving family.

The Association said the family had to bear nearly ten times the normal airfare for repatriation, with only limited assistance from the Indian Embassy.  “Such moments of grief should be met with compassion, not unbearable financial burdens,” it said.

The JKSA has urged External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to intervene, reimburse the family’s expenses and establish a formal support mechanism for families of Indian students and citizens who die abroad. (KNO)

AIIMS Awantipora faces delay again, project likely to miss Nov 2025 deadline

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The highly anticipated All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district is once again set to miss its deadline, raising concerns among residents and patients eager for advanced healthcare facilities.

Despite repeated assurances, the project, initially slated for completion by January 2025 and later revised to November 2025, is still far from finished. According to sources with knowledge of the project, approximately 70–75% of the work has been completed, with an estimated 25–30% remaining.

Officials involved in the development acknowledged that, at the current pace, it will take an additional six to eight months for full completion.

“AIIMS Awantipora was originally scheduled for completion by January 2025, then revised to November 2025. While significant progress has been made, some crucial infrastructure remains under construction. If the current pace continues, the project should be completed within the next 8-10 months,” a senior official told KNO.

He said that once operational, the institute’s MBBS courses are expected to commence from July 2026, with outpatient department (OPD) services likely to begin by August 2026.

The central government sanctioned two AIIMS projects for Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, one at Vijaypur in Jammu and another at Awantipora in Pulwama. While AIIMS Jammu was completed last year and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, AIIMS Awantipora has faced multiple hurdles leading to delays.

Land acquisition issues for an access road, which is crucial for transporting construction materials, were among the primary challenges. The situation was exacerbated following the abrogation of Article 370 and subsequent regional restrictions. The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts related to a nearby army base, and erratic weather conditions further slowed progress.

“Despite these hurdles, work has been ongoing for the past two years. The academic blocks, hospital units, and hostel buildings are nearing completion, and we are making every effort to hand over the institute to the authorities as soon as possible,” the official added.

Residents of Pulwama and neighbouring areas expressed disappointment over the repeated delays. They said that while Jammu has already benefited from the AIIMS Vijaypur, Kashmir continues to lack access to such advanced medical facilities.

“Both AIIMS projects were sanctioned simultaneously, but only Jammu has benefited so far. People in Kashmir are suffering more, as they lack easy access to premier institutions like AIIMS Delhi or PGI Chandigarh. The government should have prioritised AIIMS Awantipora, considering the healthcare needs of the valley,” said Mohammad Ibrahim, a local.

Others urged the government to expedite the project, saying that patients with life-threatening illnesses continue to face difficulties in receiving quality care.

The project, approved at an estimated cost of Rs 1,828 crore, comprises around 57 major structures, including hospital blocks, academic buildings, hostels, residential quarters, sports facilities (such as a football ground and tennis courts), and gardens with medicinal plants.

Once operational, AIIMS Awantipora will add 1,000 hospital beds to Kashmir’s healthcare system, including 300 super-speciality beds. The institute will also house a Medical College with a capacity of 100 MBBS students and a Nursing College accommodating 60 students annually.

In January this year, J&K’s Chief Secretary announced that the institute would become functional by November 2025. However, given the current pace of work and ongoing infrastructure challenges, insiders suggest that the institute may not be operational before mid-2026.

“Work is progressing, and the government is monitoring the situation closely. With sustained efforts, the people of Kashmir will soon have access to world-class healthcare facilities,” a senior official said.

In a recent review, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, Chairman of the House Committee on Petitions of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, indicated that officials have committed to starting MBBS courses from July 2026, OPD services by August 2026, and inpatient department (IPD) services by the end of 2026.

He said that delays are partly attributable to labour shortages, which worsened following the Pahalgam attack, with only 1,800 workers available against a required 2,500. (KNO)

NC, PDP partnered with Centre to ban FAT schools: Sajad Lone

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone on Saturday accused the National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of partnering with the Centre in the decision to ban FAT-affiliated schools.

Addressing a news conference here, Lone, as per KNO, said that the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party had collaborated with the Centre to ban FAT schools.

“The law under which action was taken was enacted by the Farooq Abdullah-led government in 1983 and received the Governor’s assent on March 23, 1983. The law was first implemented in 1990 when Jagmohan was Governor. The Kashmiri partner in the decision was Mufti Muhammad Sayeed. FAT was first banned when Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was Home Minister,” Lone said, adding that the directive to ban FAT schools post-2019 was based on the 1990 ban.

He reiterated that Kashmiri parties had partnered with the Centre to ban FAT schools.

“The ban on FAT schools was imposed post-2019. The National Conference implemented it in 2025,” he said.

Lone asserted that those who had banned FAT schools had no right to condemn the move.

“Don’t turn it into theatre. It is not a doll play. This concerns 250 schools and the future of thousands of students. When such issues are trivialized, people stop taking us seriously,” he said. Responding to a question about Education Minister Sakina Ittoo’s claim that the proposal approved by her did not intend to take over FAT schools, Lone said she has the authority to rescind the order.

“Let her rescind the order. She has the power to do so. There is no need for cabinet approval to rescind it. The minister has more powers than the administrative secretary,” he said.

Lone added that the Peoples Alliance for Change condemns the government’s takeover of FAT schools and urges the administration to roll back the order. (KNO)

No FAT affiliated school closed: Minister Itoo

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister, Sakina Itoo Saturday addressed a press conference in Anantnag, clarifying the government’s position on the functioning of schools affiliated with the Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT).

As per KNO, Sakina said that the future of 51,000 students enrolled in these institutions would not be jeopardized due to administrative and verification hurdles.

Itoo said the charge of FAT-affiliated schools has been temporarily handed over to the principals of nearby government higher secondary schools until the process of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) verification of their management committees is completed.

“If any school receives clearance earlier, we have no objection in immediately handing it back to the local community. This decision is purely to safeguard the future of students who cannot be left without institutional responsibility,” she said.

The minister explained that since 2019, FAT schools have been operating without formal management committees or proper registration. According to her, the reason lies in adverse CID reports against certain members of the committees, which blocked the process of renewal.

“As a result, around 51,000 students were left in uncertainty. They had no one to take responsibility for their academics, and last time, even the board refused to accept forms of three girl students. Such situations were creating unnecessary hurdles and mental stress for children,” Itoo said.

To prevent further complications, the Education Department decided to authorize government school principals to oversee administrative responsibilities, including signing board examination forms, until new committees are formed and verified.

Responding sharply to criticism from opposition parties, particularly the PDP, Itoo accused them of double standards and politicizing a sensitive matter.

She recalled that in 2002, under the government of late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Jamaat-e-Islami-run schools were raided and shut down, yet those who are raising questions today remained silent.

“Again in 2019, under the PDP government, adverse CID reports came against FAT schools, leaving them without registration and management. Those who were in power then did not utter a single word. But today, when we are working to ensure students don’t suffer, they are spreading misinformation that schools are being closed,” she said.

The minister further alleged that her original order was deliberately modified but they aren’t asking anything to them.

“I had clearly mentioned that these schools would be supervised by principals of the nearest government schools only as an interim arrangement and would be handed back once the CID clearance comes within three months. Our intention is not to close schools but to provide them a way to function smoothly with proper management,” Itoo clarified.

She reiterated that the FAT schools were not shut down under the present dispensation, but rather given a mechanism to continue functioning until legal and administrative formalities are completed.

“Those who claim schools are being closed must understand these schools have been facing restrictions since 2019. Instead of playing politics, opposition leaders should ask why nothing was done back then. We have opened a pathway so that they get registered with proper managing bodies, and children are not denied education,” she said.

In a direct attack on PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, Itoo asked why the party had remained silent for the past several years on this issue.

“If we are in this situation today, where J&K has limited powers as a Union Territory, it is because of PDP’s failures. Till now, they were mum, and suddenly they are projecting themselves as champions of education. My question to Mehbooba Mufti is simple – where were you sleeping all these years when students were suffering? This is about the careers of our children and not about politics,” she said

Itoo assured parents and students that the government’s priority is to protect education and prevent disruption in the academic calendar. She emphasized that the move is a temporary arrangement until the schools are regularized through proper management committees cleared by CID. (KNO)

MeT issues weather alert for next 48 hours

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The weatherman here has predicted heavy rainfall across Jammu division and two districts of Kashmir in the next 48 hours, saying there is a possibility of cloudburst and flash floods in Jammu division as well.

An alert has been issued by the local Meteorological Department (MeT) here for the next 48 hours for two Kashmir districts, including Anantnag and Kulgam, and all ten districts of the Jammu region.

As per KNO, the weatherman has said there is a possibility of cloudburst, landslides, and flash floods in Jammu division over the next 48 hours.

While the alert has been issued, the season’s first snowfall was recorded at Razdan Top in Bandipora district.

An Independent Weather Forecaster, Faizan Arif Keng has said that the temperatures in mountains have significantly dropped, which is a transition to autumn.

Moreover, the reports of hailstorm have also been reported from Yachama area of Kangan in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district and also from Bandipora district as well.

Director MeT, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, in a detailed forecast, has predicted light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places till August 26. He said heavy rainfall is expected in Jammu, Reasi, Udhampur, Samba, Rajouri, and Kathua, while moderate to heavy rainfall or intense showers are expected in Poonch, Ramban, Doda, and Kishtwar, as well as in the southern parts of Kashmir division.

Ahmad said hot and humid weather is expected, with brief spells of rain and thunder at a few places from August 27 to 31.

He added that generally hot and humid weather, with brief spells of rain and thundershowers, is expected at a few places from September 1 to September 5.

Moreover, in its advisory, the MeT has appealed to people to stay away from water bodies, streams, Nallasm River embankments, loose structures, kacha houses, etc.

The MeT has advised the concerned authorities to follow precautions accordingly. (KNO)

CM Omar calls upon youth to ‘break barriers’ at Jammu TEDx

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah invoked renowned poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz during his TEDx talk in Jammu on Saturday, declaring “chale chalo ki vo manzil abhi nahin aayi” (Let us keep walking, for the goal has not yet been reached) as he urged the youth to push beyond borders, stereotypes and self-imposed limits.

According to KNO, the CM said that certain boundaries are essential for maintaining order and security, but several others, stemming from prejudice, self-doubt, or inflexible thinking, impede progress.

“We all encounter limitations. Some are beneficial to us, while many are not. We are constrained by geographical limitations, national borders, and protective legislation. However, there exist limitations dictated by prejudices and our personal fears. These must be contested,” he said.

Speaking to a hall full of students, besides other eminent speakers and the school administration, the Chief Minister said people often create self-imposed boundaries shaped by experiences or stereotypes. “These limits may be real or imagined, but every great exploration and advancement of civilisation has come from crossing boundaries,” he said.

Omar elucidated that his appeal was not to dismiss regulations or laws, but to oppose constraints that hinder development. He observed that had explorers not transgressed boundaries, the planet would have remained uncharted. “Boundaries exist to be transcended,” he said, adding that artificial distinctions should not become enduring constraints.

The CM employed commonplace illustrations like gender roles, educational settings, and individual anxieties to elucidate his argument. “What is the rationale behind the notion that boys should refrain from crying? What are the reasons against girls participating in football? What rationale exists for dissuading a pupil from enquiring? These are imperceptible barriers designed to restrain us,” he said.

Abdullah acknowledged his own limits, conceding that despite decades in politics, he still experienced anxiety when speaking in public. “My knees continue to quiver and my hands remain unsteady,” he said.

Omar urged students to aspire to greatness, saying: “You were not born to conform. You were destined to distinguish yourself and establish your own niche. Do not allow someone to assert that your gender, ethnicity, or look will dictate your accomplishments.”

He advised the students to speak up, ask questions and never let hesitation silence them. Gender, background or appearance, he added, should never be hurdles to achievement.

The event, organised by JK Public School under the subject “Beyond Boundaries,” saw Omar commencing and concluding his speech with Urdu couplets. He encouraged the youth to establish lofty objectives, articulate their opinions, and persistently enquire. “Do not permit limitations to define your objectives.” “Do not permit them to hinder your aspirations,” he said.

Other speakers who shared their ideas at the event included educationists such as Prof Amitabh Mattoo and Usha Mani. (KNO)

Fear of terrorists, their ecosystem has ended: LG Sinha

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Asserting that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have stood firmly against Pakistan and terrorism sponsored by it, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that the fear of terrorists and their ecosystem has ended in the region.

Interacting with the members of Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), here, LG Sinha, according to KNO said “During the past five years, the people of Kashmir have stood firm against Pakistan and its disruptive agenda. Everyone has acknowledged this change, and J&K has now come at par with other regions of the country.”

LG Sinha said that train has connected Kashmir with Kanyakumari in spirit and development. “Days of fear are over and Jammu and Kashmir is marching on the path of peace, prosperity, and integration with the rest of the nation,” he added.

Highlighting the change in the ground situation, LG Sinha said that in the past, Pulwama was synonymous with violence, but today the district has more industries than Srinagar. “Hundreds of people from villages in Pulwama proudly joined the Tiranga Yatra this year, showing their faith in peace and progress,” he added.

Recalling the grim past when Pakistan-backed shutdowns paralysed Kashmir, the LG said, “There used to be 150 days of hartals in a year at the behest of Pakistan. Terrorists dictated terms, and after any encounter in which a terrorist used to get killed, schools, colleges, and markets across the Valley were shut forcibly. That dark chapter has ended.”

He said, “Now Lal Chowk remains open till late in the night, and there is a new vibrancy in Kashmir’s streets.”

LG Sinha also pointed out the major dip in terrorist recruitment, noting that only one local youth has joined terrorist ranks this year. “This is a clear sign that the youth of Kashmir have rejected Pakistan’s propaganda and embraced peace,” he said.

He praised the peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which recorded the highest polling percentage in 35 years. “Politicians freely carried out their campaigns till late in the night, something unimaginable in the past,” the LG said.

The Lieutenant Governor said,   “Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the region is now emerging as one of the favourite investment  destinations in the country.”

“Investments worth thousands of crore rupees have already arrived in J&K, with new industries and opportunities being created for the youth,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the efforts of the Indian Chamber of Commerce to promote the interests of trade, commerce, and industry in Jammu Kashmir. He said the ICC’s members meeting at Srinagar will provide a platform for networking and collaboration for local businesses.

“India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. For us, relationships are not transactional. It is based on compassion and brotherhood. Our unique cultural heritage and traditional values have made our economy resilient and established India as a great and powerful nation.

By organizing this meeting in Srinagar, Indian Chamber of Commerce has also assured the industrial ecosystem that no terrorist force can ever subdue India. This event in Srinagar is a huge statement against the enemies of our great nation and it will inspire Industries in J&K to aim for greater goals,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor spoke about the investment opportunities, prevailing peace and economic transformation taking place in Jammu Kashmir over the past few years.

“Under the leadership of PM Modi, Jammu Kashmir is witnessing the industrial revolution and UT of J&K has emerged as an attractive destination for investment. We have achieved historic milestones in road, air, and rail connectivity, successfully extending the reach of industrial investment to every corner of Jammu & Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the significant contribution of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in policy advocacy, partnership with the global business community and discharging its responsibility of connecting investors, regulation for a business-friendly environment and increasing India’s competitiveness in the global market.

He said the role of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, as one of the important pillars of our strong economy is extremely important in the historic and transformative journey of India towards Viksit Bharat in 2047.

The Lieutenant Governor also thanked all the business leaders and stakeholders who have contributed to attracting domestic and foreign investment and establishing India as a stable and strong economy.

He assured industry players and potential investors of all necessary support and handholding to explore profitable investments and economic opportunities in J&K.

Abhyuday Jindal, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director, Jindal Stainless Limited; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce Department; Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General Indian Chamber of Commerce; Rahul Sahai, Chairman, ICC Jammu Chapter; Khalid Wani, Chairman ICC Kashmir Chapter; business leaders, members of Indian Chamber of Commerce and senior officials were present. (KNO)

Rajnath Singh to visit flood-hit Kishtwar tomorrow

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit the flood-affected areas of Kishtwar district on Sunday, as rescue and relief operations continue for the nineth consecutive day following a devastating cloudburst in the Chasoti village.

Sources told KNO that Rajnath Singh is expected to review the ongoing rescue efforts, meet affected families, and take stock of the relief measures.

The cloudburst, which struck on August 14, triggered massive flash floods and has so far claimed at least 65 lives, with over 70 people still missing.

Rescue teams, including personnel from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local administration, remain engaged in large-scale operations to locate the missing persons. (KNO)

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