SRINAGAR FEBRUARY 07:- The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, on Saturday along with SSP Traffic Police, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat visited the Shankaracharya Temple to review and finalize arrangements for the upcoming festival of Mahashivratri, scheduled to be celebrated on February 14th & 15th, 2026. The festival holds immense religious and cultural significance and is observed with great devotion, particularly by the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Joint Commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tahir Sajad, Executive Engineers of PHE R&B, KPDCL, Tehsildar South, Tehsildar Khanyar, Chief Sanitation Officer and other concerned, besides, Additional Secretary Dharmarth Trust, Avisash Fotedar and Vidhu Sharma accompanied the DC during the visit.

While reviewing the arrangements on the spot, the DC directed the concerned departments to ensure that all basic facilities are put in place well in advance for the devotees expected to visit the historic Shankaracharya Temple . He asked the Officers of the line departments to ensure all necessary arrangements for a smooth, safe, and enriching pilgrimage experience for the devotees on this auspicious occasion.

The DC instructed for ensuring hassle-free traffic movement for the devotees, besides adequate facilities at the designated place for parking of the vehicles. He also stressed for adequate shuttle bus services to ferry devotees from different parts of the City to the Shankaracharya Temple on Mahashivratri .

Stressing the importance of cleanliness, the DC directed the SMC authorities to ensure proper sanitation and hygiene at the Shankaracharya Temple premises and along the entire pilgrimage route. He also instructed for adequate arrangements for urinals and sanitation facilities. Additionally, he asked for ensuring all streetlights from Nehru Park to the Temple are made functional.

The DC further directed for ensuring uninterrupted supply of electricity and adequate drinking water facility at the venue so that Yatris do not face any inconvenience during their visit

The DC emphasized ensuring hassle-free traffic movement for devotees, along with adequate parking facilities at designated locations enroute the temple. He also directed for ensuring uninterrupted power supply and adequate drinking water facilities at the venue so that devotees do not face any inconvenience during their visit to pay obeisance at the Temple.

The DC also directed the Health Department to deploy a Medical team at the venue with the availability of all emergency medicines and first aid facilities.

The DC directed the officers of the line departments to ensure all necessary arrangements required for smooth stay and enriching pilgrimage for all devotees on this religious occasion.

On the occasion, the DC interacted with members of the Dharmarth Trust and Organising committee of Bhandara, assuring them of full support from the District Administration for smooth celebrations of Mahashivratri at Shankracharya, Srinagar

Srinagar, Feb 8 : A Truck driver lost his life in a tragic accident in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Sunday after his own truck rolled back while he was repairing it on the roadside.

Officials told news agency Kashmir News Corner (KNC) that the truck was parked along NH-44 near the Nipora–Vessu stretch when it suddenly moved backwards and ran over the driver of the same truck, killing him on the spot.

The deceased has been identified as Saqib Mohammad, son of Sadiq Mohammad Bakal, a resident of Udhampur.

Police has taken cognizance of the incident and further investigation is underway. (KNC)

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw launched Qualcomm 2 nm semiconductor chip, marking a significant moment in advanced semiconductor design and India’s Key Role in Global Engineering Operations today. The minister delivered a keynote address and said – “I am very happy to see this progress. The entire world is looking at us with hope because of the huge talent we have in our country. The next level of achievement will come from India”.

Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said “We can make a big difference in the entire global community. We are a country which believes in co-creating and co-developing. The decisive leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister has given us this whole new chapter of semiconductor mission in our country”. The story started way back in 1960s when Intel’s origin, the Fairchild group wanted to set up a semiconductor unit in India. But the government of that period never really understood the importance of semiconductor chips.

Our Hon’ble Prime Minister understood the importance and started the first semiconductor machine. We took a measured program of getting first few units up and running and have at least one semiconductor fab. We started with 28 nanometre as it would cover about 75% of the needs, ranging from automotive, telecom, power management and strategic requirements.

The minister added that we have made a good progress – 10 units are under construction. 4 of them started pilot production recently. They are getting their products qualified, validated with the customers and soon we will have the first unit with commercial production.

In a short time frame from 2022 till now, we have 315 universities where all the important Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools from Synopsis, Cadence or Siemens are being used by the students to design chips. Students from remote universities and colleges are designing chips, getting them taped out, validated to actual functioning process. A huge talent pipeline is getting created that will give us significant strength and advantage that our country has been known for.

Going forward, we will be starting India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 with a different outlook. In ISM 1.0, the focus was on getting first few semiconductor Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) facilities and getting the ecosystem in place and talent pipeline started. In India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0, first focus will be design companies and startups who can design a product and take it to the market. Second focus will be on getting the entire ecosystem from equipment manufacturers, chemical and gas manufacturers, validation and testing in India. The third focus will be to deepen the talent base. With talent pipeline being wide now, our focus is to partner with universities to develop solution in different sectors.

The minister noted “As  5th Industrial Revolution unfolds, it is important that government, industry and academia join hands and create that environment where deep tech innovation comes from India. We should be able to provide much more value to the entire world. Then our strength, which has been there for so many years, will continue to remain a huge strength”.

For this, we should make sure that students and employees get the right skills that are needed for providing solutions to the world. Industry-Academia should come up with relevant course curriculum and employees should be upskilled and reskilled. This will bring new opportunities for our country.

 From Water Metro to Scientific Innovation: Tour enhances understanding of national development initiatives, research ecosystems and inter-regional collaboration

7th February, 2026, Srinagar

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, concluded a five-day media tour to Kerala for journalists from Srinagar, held from February 2 to February 6, 2026. The tour was organised as part of PIB’s media outreach programme to provide regional journalists firsthand exposure to key Central Government institutions, flagship infrastructure projects, research establishments and governance processes.

The 14-member media delegation began the tour at Kochi with a visit to Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), where they were briefed on the Kochi Water Metro Project, India’s pioneering water-based urban transport system. Officials highlighted its climate-resilient design, operational framework and role in promoting sustainable and inclusive urban mobility.

The delegation visited Kottayam and interacted with senior officials and scientists at the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) and the Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), functioning under the Rubber Board. The delegation was apprised of Government of India initiatives aimed at strengthening rubber production, sustainable natural rubber practices, scientific breeding programmes, value addition and efforts towards self-sufficiency in the sector.

A key highlight of the tour was the interactive meeting with the Governor of Kerala, during which the media delegation held detailed discussions on governance, development priorities and the role of media in strengthening cultural engagement. The interaction provided the visiting journalists valuable insights into governance perspectives and inter-regional engagement.

As part of the tour, the delegation also visited the Press Information Bureau office at Thiruvananthapuram and interacted with Shri V. Palanichamy, Additional Director General, PIB Kerala. The delegation was briefed on upcoming engagements during the tour and encouraged to carry back impactful stories for wider public dissemination.

Subsequently, the delegation visited the ICAR–Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI), Thiruvananthapuram, where scientists briefed them on research in tropical tuber crops, climate-smart agriculture, value chain improvement and technology transfer for enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. The visit to ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), Vizhinjam Regional Centre, provided insights into advanced marine fisheries research, hatcheries and sustainable aquaculture technologies.

The journalists also visited the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport, India’s first major deep-water container transshipment hub, where officials highlighted its strategic importance in strengthening India’s maritime trade and logistics infrastructure.

On the final day, the delegation visited CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram. Scientists showcased interdisciplinary research initiatives spanning advanced materials, biosciences, sustainable technologies, clean energy, healthcare innovations and technology transfer to industry and startups, underscoring the role of science in addressing societal challenges.

The five-day press tour to Kerala was led by Shri Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar, who served as the Conducting Officer. The successful organisation of the tour was made possible through the close coordination and support of PIB Kerala.

The tour provided the participating journalists a comprehensive understanding of national development initiatives, scientific research ecosystems and governance practices, reinforcing PIB’s objective of fostering informed, accurate and impactful media engagement across regions.

Final day of PIB Srinagar-organised Kerala media tour focuses on research with societal relevance

7 February, 2026, Thiruvananthapuram

On the fifth day of the Press Tour to Kerala organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, the 14-member media delegation from Srinagar visited the National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR–NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, an interdisciplinary research laboratory under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India.

The delegation was welcomed by Dr. C. Anandharamakrishna, Director, CSIR–NIIST, who briefed the visiting journalists on the institute’s mandate, research philosophy and its emphasis on scientific excellence with a strong societal orientation. He also introduced the team of scientists and experts who interacted with the delegation. Dr. Athira Thampi, Deputy Director, PIB Thiruvananthapuram, was also present during the interaction. Shri Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer and the Conducting officer for the Press Tour introduced the delegation.

Dr. U.S. Hareesh, Chief Scientist and Head, Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, provided a comprehensive overview of CSIR–NIIST, elaborating on its major research verticals, completed and ongoing projects, human resource strength and research revenue generation. He highlighted key industry collaborations, major Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements, including a significant partnership with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

During the interaction, the delegation was apprised of CSIR–NIIST’s work in diverse areas such as photochemistry, chemical–bioscience integration, advanced materials, bioprocess and product development, agro-processing, and value addition to region-specific natural resources. Scientists explained technologies developed by the institute, including biodegradable tableware, conversion of biomedical waste into soil additives, value-added soil enhancers, vaccine viral monitors based on colour-change indicators, on-site water treatment units, biodegradable products from agro-residue, plant-based leather alternatives, hydrogen as a green fuel, indoor light energy harvesting technologies, dye-sensitised cells, carbon dioxide capture and utilisation, and materials designed for enhanced absorption.

The delegation was also informed about CSIR–NIIST’s contributions to rural water supply and sanitation in Kerala, sustainable packaging solutions, global alternatives to plastics, and sustainable bottle technologies. Research initiatives on early cancer detection, particularly breast and cervical cancer using blood plasma, were discussed, with scientists clarifying that related studies are currently in the research stage. Queries from journalists on the role of artificial intelligence, plant-based leather technologies and rising cancer cases were addressed in detail. It was shared that several technologies developed by CSIR–NIIST have already been licensed to companies, facilitating commercialization and industry adoption.

Dr. Hareesh later led the delegation through the institute’s innovation museum. The visitors were given a walkthrough of laboratories and technology demonstration facilities, showcasing practical applications of scientific research and sustainable solutions. The visit underlined how advanced research can be translated into real-world applications that support agriculture, bio-products, advanced materials, environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth.

The delegation was further briefed on CSIR–NIIST’s collaborations with industry and government agencies, and its role in nurturing technology-based entrepreneurship.

The five-day press tour to Kerala that started on 2nd February, 2026 is part of PIB’s media outreach programme aimed at providing journalists from Jammu & Kashmir firsthand exposure to key Central Government institutions, research ecosystems and national development initiatives.

Anantnag, 07 February 2026:

Ashok Koul, General Secretary (Organization), Jammu & Kashmir BJP, addressed a massive public convention at Municipal Park, Ashajpora Bypass, Anantnag, highlighting the commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party towards development, good governance, and public welfare.

The convention was also addressed by J&K BJP General Secretary Anwar Khan, District President Anantnag Rakesh Koul, Programme Incharge Abaid Hussain Nengroo, senior BJP leader Sofi Yousuf, and a large number of party workers and supporters.

Addressing the gathering, Ashok Koul launched a scathing attack on the National Conference government, stating that while the Modi-led Central Government continues to stand firmly with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the NC regime has failed to deliver on its promises.

“The Modi Government has provided ₹1430 crore as disaster relief assistance for Jammu & Kashmir to support distressed families affected by natural calamities. This reflects the sensitivity and commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the people of this region,” Koul said.

Ashok Koul further said that the recently presented Union Budget is a strong, public-friendly, and Viksit Bharat–oriented budget, aimed at empowering youth, farmers, women, and the poor, while strengthening infrastructure and economic growth. In sharp contrast, the budget presented by the NC government in J&K is completely hollow, directionless, and devoid of any concrete roadmap for development or employment, he asserted.

Later, at the BJP District Office Anantnag, Ashok Koul, along with Anwar Khan, Sofi Yousuf, and Rakesh Koul, addressed an organizational meeting of all district office bearers and constituency presidents, reviewing ongoing party programmes and future strategies.

While addressing the meeting, Ashok Koul called upon party workers to remain disciplined, united, and dedicated to public service. He said that the BJP’s strength lies in its cadre-based organization. He said that every BJP activist must work tirelessly at the grassroots level to address public issues and strengthen people’s trust in the party.

Speaking on the occasion, Anwar Khan said that BJP workers are the real ambassadors of the party’s ideology and governance model. Our focus is to ensure that the benefits of Central Government schemes reach every eligible person without discrimination, he said.

Rakesh Koul assured that the Anantnag district unit is fully committed to strengthening the party at the booth level and serving the people with dedication and honesty.

Assesses progress of FC Grants, IDMT, AMRUT 2.0, SBM, PMAY-U, PM SVANidhi, NGT works & Budgam Town beautification projects

BUDGAM, FEBRUARY 7: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, today chaired a meeting to assess the progress and implementation status of various developmental works being executed across different Municipal Committees of the district.

The review meeting covered a wide range of urban development initiatives being undertaken under Finance Commission (FC) Grants, Integrated Development of Municipal Towns (IDMT), PM SVANidhi, AMRUT 2.0, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), National Green Tribunal (NGT) related works, PMAY (Urban), and ongoing beautification projects of Budgam town.

During the meeting, detailed presentations were made by the concerned officers regarding physical and financial progress of works, timelines for completion, and challenges being faced in execution.

The status of infrastructure augmentation, sanitation and waste management, housing, livelihood support, and urban service delivery was reviewed in depth.

The DC emphasised that timely completion of all approved works must be ensured in a mission mode so that the intended benefits reach the public without delay.

He stressed that strict adherence to quality standards shall be maintained at all stages of execution and that no compromise on workmanship will be tolerated.

The DC directed that proper planning, close monitoring, and regular field inspections be carried out by the Executive Officers of Municipal Committees to ensure that projects are executed as per approved specifications and within stipulated timeframes. He further stressed that utilisation of funds must be done judiciously and transparently to achieve visible and measurable improvement in urban infrastructure and civic amenities.

While reviewing works under AMRUT 2.0 and SBM, the DC laid special emphasis on strengthening sanitation systems, solid waste management, drainage, and cleanliness in all urban areas. He stressed that Swachh Bharat Mission objectives must be implemented in both letter and spirit to improve overall urban hygiene and public health outcomes.

With regard to PMAY (Urban), the DC directed for expediting beneficiary identification, verification, and completion of housing units so that eligible beneficiaries are provided with safe and dignified housing in a time-bound manner. He also stressed streamlining PM SVANidhi implementation to ensure that street vendors are effectively supported through timely disbursement of benefits and facilitation of livelihood opportunities.

While reviewing NGT-related works, the DC stressed strict compliance with environmental norms and timely execution of projects aimed at improving waste management, sewage disposal, and environmental protection measures. He directed that all NGT directions shall be followed meticulously and progress shall be regularly reviewed.

The beautification projects of Budgam town were also reviewed, with emphasis on improving aesthetics, public spaces, footpaths, lighting, and overall urban ambience.

The DC stressed that beautification initiatives must be integrated with functionality and long-term maintenance to ensure sustainable urban development.

The DC further directed that coordination among all Municipal Committees, line departments, and district administration shall be strengthened to avoid duplication of works and ensure optimal utilisation of resources. He also stressed the importance of proper documentation, geo-tagging of works, and regular progress reporting for enhanced accountability.

The DC stated that focus shall remain on citizen-centric development, improved service delivery, and creation of durable urban assets. He stressed that municipal leadership shall play a proactive role in addressing public grievances and ensuring that development works translate into tangible improvements for residents.

The DC said that periodic reviews shall continue to be held to monitor progress and ensure that urban development targets of the district are achieved in a planned, transparent, and efficient manner

The meeting was attended by the Chief planning officer budgam Javaid Ahmad Najar , Chief Executive Officer, Budgam, and Executive Officers of all Municipal Committees of the district, who were directed to maintain close supervision over ongoing works and ensure strict compliance with timelines and quality benchmarks.

ACB Conducts Twin Raids, Seizes Revenue and Banking Records

TAUSEEF AHMAD

SRINAGAR, Feb 7: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Srinagar, has registered a formal case against Moean Azhar Kakroo, the then Tehsildar of South Srinagar, on charges of abusing his official position by allegedly demanding and accepting illegal gratification in lieu of facilitating land restoration and demarcation.

Officials said FIR No. 03 of 2026 has been registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The case stems from a detailed verification conducted by the bureau following a complaint alleging bribery and irregularities in the process of land restoration and demarcation carried out in the year 2021.

According to the verification report, a parcel of land measuring 4 Kanals, 9 Marlas and 165 square feet—comprising Survey No. 998/54—was officially recorded in the names of multiple individuals, including the complainant. The ACB found that the accused public servant allegedly demanded illegal gratification for facilitating the restoration of 14 Marlas of this land situated at Gulbahar Colony, Hyderpora, Sector-14, Srinagar.

Officials further revealed that the illegal gratification was not limited to cash. The verification established that a second-hand Mahindra Rexton 4×4 vehicle bearing registration number MH03CP-5000 was allegedly accepted by the accused as a bribe. The payments for the vehicle were reportedly made by the complainant through banking channels, specifically via his Paytm account linked with Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Batamaloo branch.

The probe also revealed that after the land restoration process was completed, the complainant sold the restored land in January 2022 to a private buyer. The land is currently under the possession of the purchaser.

The ACB stated that the alleged demand and acceptance of illegal gratification—other than lawful remuneration—in connection with an official act clearly amounts to abuse of official position and attracts penal provisions under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Following the registration of the FIR, the bureau carried out searches at two locations after obtaining warrants from the competent court. These included the accused’s residential house at Kanil Bagh, Azad Road, Baramulla, and another residential house at Rose Avenue Colony, Gazalla Abad, HMT, Srinagar. During the searches, officials recovered and seized incriminating material, including revenue-related records, financial documents and banking papers, which are now part of the evidence in the case.

Officials also noted that the accused had been appointed on compassionate grounds during the tenure of former Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed after his father—who was serving as PDP Block President—was killed by unidentified gunmen. At present, the accused is posted as Tehsildar Khansahab and is also holding additional charge of Khag in Budgam district.

Further investigation into the case is underway.

VINOD BHAT

Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah today chaired a review meeting in Jammu to assess the progress of development projects in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During the meeting, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah undertook a comprehensive review of key sectors such as road infrastructure, power, industry, tourism, 4G and optical fibre connectivity. The meeting was attended by Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, Union Home Secretary, and senior officials from both, the Central Government and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister said that the under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India remains firmly committed to the vision of building a developed and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. He said that due to the continuous and dedicated efforts being made by the Modi government to accelerate development, the development projects in Jammu and Kashmir have made unprecedented progress. He said that Jammu and Kashmir needs to develop the full potential of its hydropower projects. He said that special focus should be laid on achieving 100% saturation of the government’s welfare schemes and ensuring that the benefits of all development projects reach the intended beneficiaries

Shri Amit Shah said that the enthusiasm of tourists from across the country to visit Jammu and Kashmir has not diminished. He said that there is a need for aggressive marketing of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourist destinations in other states of the country to explore the tourism potential available here. He said that the Government of India will provide all possible assistance in the plan to develop new tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that focus should be given to developing sports infrastructure and establishing sports academies to connect youth with development. In this regard, efforts will be made to secure an investment of about ₹200 crore by engaging with various sports bodies. Shri Shah also said that efforts should be made to promote the dairy sector in Jammu and Kashmir through the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

Marking a significant step, Jammu & Kashmir has been brought under the ambit of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme for the first time in FY 2025–26, enabling access to 50-year interest-free loans for capital projects. Home Minister underlined that strengthened fiscal discipline would assist in stabilising the UTs fiscal deficit over time.

Shri Amit Shah said that India is steadily progressing towards the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, marking 100 years of independence and the Government of India will continue to extend wholehearted support to Jammu and Kashmir in pursuit of this goal. Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah’s visit highlights the Government of India’s firm resolve to make the development, peace, and security of Jammu and Kashmir a foremost national priority.