KD Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Jan 27: A fresh western disturbance is expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir from January 28, bringing light rain and snowfall at a few places, while a more intense spell of snow is likely between February 1 and 2, the Meteorological Department (MeT) said on Tuesday.

According to MeT officials, the current weather system will remain active through January 28 but is expected to move out of the region by Wednesday morning. “The impact will remain limited, with light precipitation at isolated places. By tomorrow afternoon, the system will completely exit Jammu and Kashmir,” an official said.

However, MeT warned that another strong disturbance will approach the region at the beginning of February, triggering widespread snowfall. “Between February 1 and 2, there is a high probability of heavy snowfall across large parts of the valley, particularly from Kulgam to Kupwara,” the official added.

MeT data shows that Gulmarg has already recorded a snow depth of about 31 centimetres at lower elevations, suggesting that upper reaches could receive between 1.5 to 2 feet of snow during the upcoming spell.

Authorities have issued an advisory urging people to avoid high-altitude areas after the snowfall due to increased risk of avalanches. “In the 48 hours following heavy snowfall, chances of snow avalanches rise significantly. Residents in vulnerable zones should not venture out unnecessarily,” MeT said.

Travellers, especially those planning to use the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway, have been advised to follow official traffic updates and police advisories before starting their journey.

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed a gathering during the inauguration ceremony of India Energy Week 2026 via video conferencing today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Modi remarked that in this new edition of Energy Week, representatives from nearly 125 countries have gathered in Goa. He highlighted that they have come to India to discuss an energy-secure and sustainable future and welcomed all the participants.

Highlighting that India Energy Week has, in a very short span of time, emerged as a global platform for dialogue and action, Prime Minister remarked that today India is a land of immense opportunities for the energy sector. He underlined that India is the world’s fastest growing economy, which means the demand for energy products in the country is continuously rising. He emphasized that India also offers excellent opportunities to meet global demand. Shri Modi noted that India is among the top five exporters of petroleum products in the world, with export coverage extending to more than 150 countries. He stated that this capacity of India will be of great benefit to all. He further stressed that the Energy Week platform is an excellent place to explore partnerships and extended his best wishes to all participants.

Prime Minister stated that before moving ahead with his remarks, he wished to highlight a major development. He noted that just yesterday, a significant agreement was signed between India and the European Union, which people across the world are calling the “mother of all deals.” Shri Modi emphasized that this agreement brings immense opportunities for India’s 140 crore people and millions across European nations. He underlined that it stands as a remarkable example of coordination between two of the world’s largest economies. The Prime Minister highlighted that the agreement represents nearly 25 percent of global GDP and about one-third of global trade. He remarked that beyond trade, the deal strengthens the shared commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

Shri Modi pointed out that the free trade agreement with the EU will complement the agreements with Britain and EFTA, thereby reinforcing both trade and global supply chains. He extended warm congratulations to India’s youth and all citizens for this achievement, and also conveyed his best wishes to those engaged in sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery, leather, and footwear, noting that the agreement will prove highly beneficial for them. The Prime Minister stressed that this trade deal will not only boost manufacturing in India but also expand the services sector further. He affirmed that the free trade agreement will strengthen global business and investor confidence in India.

Emphasizing that India is actively working on global partnerships across every sector, Shri Modi remarked that in the energy sector alone, there are vast investment opportunities across different areas of the energy value chain. Shri Modi highlighted that India has significantly opened up its exploration sector and referred to the deep-sea exploration initiative known as the Samudra Manthan Mission. He stated that by the end of this decade, India aims to raise investments in the oil and gas sector to 100 billion dollars, with a target of expanding the scope of exploration to one million square kilometers. The Prime Minister noted that more than 170 blocks have already been awarded, and the Andaman and Nicobar basin is emerging as the next hydrocarbon hope.

Underlining that several reforms have been undertaken in the exploration sector, including reducing the No-Go areas, Shri Modi added that suggestions received during previous editions of India Energy Week have been incorporated into changes in Acts and Rules. He affirmed that companies investing in the exploration sector are certain to see increased profitability.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted another distinctive strength of India that makes investment in the energy sector highly beneficial. He remarked that India possesses a very large refining capacity and currently ranks second in the world in this regard. Shri Modi emphasized that soon India will become the number one country globally in refining capacity. He noted that India’s present refining capacity stands at around 260 MMT per annum, and continuous efforts are underway to raise it beyond 300 MMT per annum. The Prime Minister underlined that this represents a major advantage for investors.

Highlighting that LNG demand in India is continuously rising, and the country has set a target to meet 15 percent of its total energy demand through LNG, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to work across the entire LNG value chain and noted that India is undertaking large-scale efforts in transportation. Shri Modi remarked that India is working to build the vessels required for LNG transportation domestically, supported by a recently launched ship-building program worth seventy thousand crore rupees. He underlined that numerous investment opportunities have been created in constructing LNG terminals at Indian ports, as well as in regasification projects.

The Prime Minister stressed that India requires a vast pipeline network for LNG transportation, where significant investments have already been made, but large-scale opportunities still remain. He pointed out that city gas distribution networks have already reached many Indian cities and are rapidly expanding to others, making this sector highly attractive for investment.

Shri Modi observed that with India’s large population and steadily growing economy, the demand for petrochemical products will continue to rise, necessitating extensive energy infrastructure. He affirmed that investment in this area will yield substantial growth and added that there are also abundant opportunities in downstream activities for investors.

“Today’s India is riding on the Reforms Express and undertaking rapid reforms across every sector”, stressed Shri Modi. He emphasized that reforms are being carried out to strengthen domestic hydrocarbons while creating a transparent and investor-friendly environment for global collaborations. The Prime Minister underlined that India is now moving beyond energy security towards the mission of energy independence. He stated that India is developing an energy sector ecosystem capable of meeting local demand and, through affordable refining and transportation solutions, making exports highly competitive for the world.

The Prime Minister underlined that India’s energy sector lies at the center of the nation’s aspirations, offering investment opportunities worth 500 billion dollars. He concluded his remarks by calling upon the global community with the message: Make in India, Innovate in India, Scale with India, Invest in India.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant were present among other dignitaries at the event.

UDHAMPUR, Jan 27: Four persons, including a CRPF jawan lost their lives and several injured after a bus collided with a parked vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway here on Tuesday, officials said.

The accident took place near Jhakhani bridge in Udhampur district, they said.

Officials told that the bus, travelling from Chenani, hit the stationary Tata Mobile vehicle. Three civilians, who were changing a tyre of the vehicle, died on the spot.

A CRPF personnel of 52 Battalion, posted in Kishtwar and on his way home on leave, also died in the collision, they said.

The injured were shifted to Government Medical College Udhampur for treatment, officials said, adding that police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. (KNS)

8 Morning Flights Cancelled

Srinagar, Jan 27: Flight operations at the Srinagar International Airport were severely disrupted on Tuesday as continuous snowfall and poor visibility in the Kashmir valley led to the cancellation of multiple morning flights, officials said.

An airport official told that adverse weather conditions affecting the airbase as the reason for the cancellations.

According to a list issued by authorities, the following flights scheduled for Tuesday morning were cancelled until 0805 hours:

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E5133 (Delhi-Srinagar) and 6E6854 (Srinagar-Delhi).

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E202 (Mumbai-Srinagar) and 6E203 (Srinagar-Mumbai).

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E6265 (Ahmedabad-Srinagar) and 6E6266 (Srinagar-Ahmedabad).

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E6497 (Bengaluru-Srinagar) and 6E262 (Srinagar-Chandigarh).

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E6016 (Delhi-Srinagar) and 6E6780 (Srinagar-Leh).

IndiGo (6E) flights 6E6757 (Leh-Srinagar) and 6E6757 (Srinagar-Delhi).

Akasa Air (QP) flights QP1637 (Mumbai-Srinagar) and QP1638 (Srinagar-Mumbai).

Akasa Air (QP) flights QP1802 (Delhi-Srinagar) and QP1803 (Srinagar-Delhi).

The official said all cancellations were due to bad weather and snowfall in Srinagar.

Efforts are underway to clear the runway, he said, adding that passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight status, rescheduling, and alternative travel arrangements. (KNS)

SRINAGAR, JAN 27 m; The strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for traffic on Tuesday following fresh snowfall in and around the Navyug Tunnel, officials said.

A senior traffic police officer said that no vehicular movement shall be permitted from either Jammu towards Srinagar or vice versa until further orders.

“In addition to NH-44, the Mughal Road, SSG Road, and Sinthan Road are also closed for traffic due to inclement weather and slippery conditions,” the officer stated.

He advised the public to avoid travel on these routes until they are fully restored and officially declared safe.

The officer further urged people to rely only on official sources for updates and refrain from spreading or believing unverified rumours.

Commuters can check the latest status on the Traffic Police’s official Twitter handle @Traffic_hqrs, Facebook page facebook.com/jammuandkashmirtrafficpolice, or contact the nearest Traffic Control Units (TCUs), he added. (KNS)

Economic self-reliance is both a national imperative and a moral responsibility: MD & CEO

JAMMU, JANUARY 26: As part of countrywide festivities, J&K Bank celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great fervour across its areas of operations.

MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee unfurled the national tricolour during the main function held at the Bank’s Jammu Divisional Office, in the presence of Executive Director Sudhir Gupta, Chief General Manager Sunit Kumar, General Managers, DGMs, senior officers amid a large gathering of Bank staff.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, “On this solemn occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to the constitutional ideals that continue to guide India’s march towards progress, prosperity and self-reliance. Economic self-reliance, therefore, is both a national imperative and a moral responsibility – one that places people, productivity and purpose at its core.”

Highlighting the relationship between Bank’s rich legacy and national vision, he added, “For J&K Bank, this vision resonates deeply with our legacy. Established with the mission of “serving to empower,” the Bank has, for decades, functioned not merely as a financial institution but as a development partner in the socio-economic transformation of Jammu & Kashmir with emphasis on self-reliance. Our journey has been shaped by the aspirations of our people and the belief that sustainable growth must be inclusive, equitable, and rooted in local strengths.”

“This journey finds strong expression in our proactive engagement with the UT Government’s flagship program, Mission YUVA. By facilitating entrepreneurship, nurturing self-employment, and enabling access to timely and affordable credit, the Bank is proud to play a pivotal role in transforming job-seekers into job-creators”, MD and CEO said.

Meanwhile, on the occasion, the Bank also organized a Blood Donation-cum-Health Screening Camp in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services and Ummeed Foundation, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to community welfare and preventive healthcare. Demonstrating a strong sense of social responsibility during the camp, the Bank staff voluntarily donated blood in large numbers.

Additionally, health screening of more than 100 persons was conducted, with special emphasis on cardiac health, enabling early identification of potential health risks.

In his remarks on the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee underscored the relevance of organizing such initiatives in the present times. It was emphasized that such initiatives were essential in promoting awareness, encouraging preventive healthcare practices, and strengthening community well-being.

MD & CEO asserted that in collaboration with government departments and credible non-profit organizations, the Bank plans to expand the reach of such impactful health and wellness interventions through its CSR program to continue making valuable contributions toward a healthier society.

Notably, in a function held at the Bank’s Corporate Headquarters in Srinagar, Chief General Manager Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat unfurled the national flag in the presence of General Managers, DGMs, senior officials and other staff members.

Similar functions were held at the divisional and the zonal levels of the Bank across it’s areas of operations.
The celebratory functions concluded with a collective pledge to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress by serving the people with renewed purpose and dedication.

BARAMULLA, JANUARY 26: The 77th Republic Day celebrations unfolded with great fervor at District Police Lines Baramulla, with Minister for Agricultural Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives, and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, unfurling the National Flag, inspecting the parade and taking the ceremonial salute.
The impressive parade featured contingents from BSF, CRPF, J&K police, SSB, IRP, Armed Police Ladies, and the J&K Police Band, alongside NCC cadets from Government Degree College Baramulla, Boys’ Higher Secondary Baramulla and various schools and colleges, showcasing the region’s patriotic spirit and unity.
The Minister paid tributes to the visionary leaders instrumental in shaping our constitution. He also offered homage to the brave freedom fighters and martyrs who sacrificed everything to uphold the nation’s freedom and democracy.
Javid Dar highlighted the district’s notable progress across a wide range of key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare and education, along with impactful initiatives in women and youth empowerment, road connectivity, social welfare, self-employment and other avenues of holistic development.
During the event, the students from different schools and cultural artists showcased a range of performances highlighting the region’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.
On the occasion, the Indian Army had established a series of stalls offering the public a unique opportunity to witness an impressive display of their state-of-the-art weaponry, allowing the visitors to gain a closer insight into the Army’s operational capabilities and technological advancements.
Meanwhile, the guests of honour visited the stalls set up by the Indian Army and by various departments, including Education, Agriculture, Health, ICD among others showcasing a range of government schemes, services and facilities aimed at benefiting the general public.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of prizes for the march past and cultural performances. Additionally, the employees from various departments were honored for their outstanding contributions in public service.
Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Sopore, Irshad Ahmad Kar, MLA Wagoora-Kreeri, Irfan Hafiz Lone, MLA Uri, Sajad Ahmad, MLA Gulmarg, Farooq Ahmad Shah, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla, Gurinderpal Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Altaf Hussain Musvi, officers of Army and Police, district and sectoral officers, heads of different departments besides a huge gathering of people participated in Republic Day celebrations.
Similar Republic Day functions were also organized with enthusiasm and fervor at Sub-divisions Sopore, Pattan, Uri, Tangmarg and tehsil levels where the concerned ADCs and SDMs unfurled the tri-color.

JAMMU, JANUARY 26: Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) today celebrated 77th Republic Day at Media Complex, Rail Head here.
Director Information and Public Relations, Nitish Rajora, unfurled the tricolour and paid high tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the cause of nation.
On the occasion, the Director along with the officers and officials of the department paid floral tributes to Anil Kumar Abrol (Field Publicity Officer), Harbans Singh (Projector Operator) and Anchal Singh (Projector Operator) who attained martyrdom, while performing their duties on this day in 1995.
Joint Director Information, Jammu, Joint Director Information (Hqrs), Deputy Director PR/AV, Deputy Director (PR), Jammu, Accounts Officer, Information Officers, Administrative Officer and other officials of the department were also present on the occasion.