VINOD BHAT
Assam, Jan 18:
In a significant milestone for strengthening railway connectivity in the Northeast, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi flagged off two Amrit Bharat Express train services for the people of Assam and the Northeast region today. This landmark event marks the introduction of the first non-AC Amrit Bharat Express train services from this region.
The two newly introduced services are the Dibrugarh – Gomti Nagar (Lucknow) Amrit Bharat Express and the Kamakhya – Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express. The trains were flagged off virtually from Kaliabor, Assam. The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including the Governor of Assam Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and Shri Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles. At Kamakhya, Shri Chandra Mohan Patowary, Cabinet Minister of Assam & Smt. Bijuli Kalita Medhi, MP (Lok Sabha) & in Dibrugarh Shri Prasanta Phukan, Cabinet Minister of Assam, Shri Rameswar Teli, MP(Rajya Sabha) alongwith others were present.
These new Amrit Bharat trains will substantially enhance long-distance rail connectivity between Assam and key destinations across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana and adjoining regions, directly benefiting lakhs of passengers including students, traders, working professionals and families from the Northeast. The Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed with a focus on enhanced passenger comfort, safety and affordability, featuring modern coaches, improved riding quality and passenger-friendly amenities, making long-distance travel more accessible for the common man.
The Dibrugarh-Gomti Nagar Amrit Bharat Express will provide improved access from Upper Assam to major educational, medical and commercial centres in North India, while the Kamakhya-Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express will strengthen connectivity from Guwahati to important industrial and administrative hubs in Haryana and the National Capital Region. Enroute, these services will cater to numerous important stations, ensuring broad based socio-economic benefits across the regions they traverse.
The flagging off of these two new Amrit Bharat Express trains reflects the Indian Railways sustained focus on bridging distances, strengthening national integration and accelerating the pace of development in the Northeast region. Northeast Frontier Railway remains committed to further enhancing rail infrastructure and passenger services to support the region’s economic growth and social progress.
PM Flags off Two Amrit Bharat Trains from Assam
Indian Railways Makes Major Strides in Track Modernisation and Safety
VINOD BHAT
Delhi, JAN 18:
Indian Railways has recorded significant progress in strengthening its track infrastructure and enhancing safety standards through sustained investment and focused execution over the last eleven years. These efforts have contributed to safer, faster and more reliable train operations across the country.
During the financial year 2024–25, Indian Railways carried out track renewal over 6,851 track kilometres. In the current financial year 2025–26, more than 7,500 track kilometres of track renewal work is underway. Further, track renewal covering 7,900 track kilometres is planned for 2026–27, reflecting continued emphasis on asset reliability and safety.
Substantial progress has also been made in turnout renewal, which is crucial for smooth train movement. In 2024–25, 7,161 Thick Web Switches and 1,704 Weldable CMS Crossings were provided. In 2025–26, over 8,000 Thick Web Switches and more than 3,000 Weldable CMS Crossings are being provided.
Mechanised deep screening of ballast, essential for maintaining track stability and improving ride quality, has been carried out consistently. During 2024–25, 7,442 track kilometres of deep screening was completed, while over 7,500 track kilometres of deep screening work is being undertaken in 2025–26.
To support mechanized maintenance and improve productivity, Indian Railways has significantly expanded its track machine fleet. More than 1,100 track machines have been procured since 2014, enabling faster and more efficient maintenance of the railway network.
Safety fencing along railway tracks has been taken up on priority to minimize cattle run-over incidents and trespassing, thereby enhancing overall safety. About 15,000 kilometres of fencing have been provided so far, leading to improved safety on sections where trains operate at speeds exceeding 110 kmph.
As a result of these sustained efforts, Indian Railways has achieved remarkable progress in upgrading tracks. The length of track permitting speeds of 110 kmph and above has increased from 31,445 kilometres (about 40 per cent of the network) in 2014 to 84,244 kilometres (about 80 per cent of the network) at present, enabling faster and more efficient train operations.
Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi inaugurates the PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 in New Delhi
VINOD BHAT
Delhi, JAN 18:
Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi inaugurated the PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 organised by the Ministry of MSME at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi in the august presence of the Minister of State for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises and Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje today. Ambassadors of Iraq and Rwanda, senior officials of the Ministry of MSME, representatives from States and Union Territories, artisans and other stakeholders also graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister for MSME, Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi highlighted the achievements of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and congratulated the team for organising the exhibition. He stated that “PM Vishwakarma provides a valuable platform to artisans from village-level backgrounds to sell their products and it is a commendable effort.” The Union Minister for MSME also explained the significance of Vishwakarma and appreciated the vision behind the scheme, stating that under the successful and dynamic leadership of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the scheme is providing a platform for every Vishwakarma in the country to access markets and contribute to the nation’s development.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for MSME, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje stated that, “Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, the PM Vishwakarma initiative has achieved significant milestones. It is truly encouraging to witness the participation of over 117 artisans from various States and Union Territories on the platform of PM Vishwakarma Haat.” She added that PM Vishwakarma connects village artisans by providing them with an enabling platform, thereby opening pathways to global markets. These achievements, she said, are the result of sustained efforts by the Government of India and the dedicated work of the Ministry of MSME.
Shri S.C.L. Das, Secretary, Ministry of MSME highlighted PM Vishwakarma as a significant initiative and stated that the rich and diverse potential of Vishwakarmas truly reflects the vision of “Virasat se Vikas.” He emphasized how beautifully and skillfully Vishwakarmas are carrying forward their traditional expertise, empowered by the leadership of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, which has provided them with a strong and enabling platform.
Dr. Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, Ministry of MSME, highlighted the achievements of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and stated that Vishwakarmas are the engines of growth of the Indian economy. He elaborated on the benefits of the scheme and explained how it is creating enhanced marketing opportunities for artisans.
Cultural programmes and folk dance performances based on the themes of Bihar and Rajasthan were also presented during the Haat, adding vibrancy and showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity.
The PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 at Dilli Haat, which is being organized from 18th to 31st January, is celebrating India’s rich tradition of craftsmanship with great enthusiasm and splendour. The exhibition will remain open to the public daily from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
More than 117 artisans from all States and Union Territories are participating in PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026, making it a pan-India representation of traditional crafts. The exhibition features handcrafted products, live craft demonstrations and immersive cultural experiences reflecting the spirit of “Vishwakarma Ka Abhiyaan, Viksit Bharat Ka Nirman.”
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma scheme offers a comprehensive set of benefits to artisans, including the issuance of a PM Vishwakarma Identity Card & Certificate, skill training with a stipend of ₹500 per day and a toolkit incentive of up to ₹15,000. Beneficiaries are also eligible for collateral-free loans of up to ₹3 lakh, along with incentives for the adoption of digital transactions. The scheme further supports artisans through marketing assistance, including product branding, packaging, and e-commerce enablement.
Encounter breaks out in J-K’s Kishtwar
Kishtwar, Jan 18: An encounter broke out between security forces and militants in the Singpura area of Chatroo in Kishtwar district on Sunday, officials said.
The exchange of fire began during an ongoing search operation launched following inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, officials said.
The operation is being conducted jointly by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Security forces had intensified searches in the forested and hilly terrain of Chatroo over the past few days as part of a multi-day cordon-and-search operation, they said.
Firing started when the forces zeroed in on suspected hideouts, prompting the terrorists to open fire, officials added.(KNS).
One Kg Heroin Seized in Srinagar, Accused Arrested, Police Confirm Arrest, Case Registered
Srinagar, Jan 18: Police have arrested a person and recovered one kilogram of heroin during a naka checking operation near the STP Plant at Munwarabad in Srinagar, officials said on Sunday.
A senior police officer confirmed to the news agency Kashmir News Trust that a police party from Police Station Khanyar apprehended the accused during routine naka checking. “During naka checking, police personnel from Police Station Khanyar apprehended one person at Munwarabad near STP Plant. He has been identified as Fayaz Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Hussain, resident of Ichgam, Budgam. Upon search, one kilogram of heroin was recovered from his possession,” the officer said.
Following the recovery, police registered a case under FIR No. 04 of 2026 under Sections 8 and 21 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Khanyar. The accused has been taken into custody and further investigation has been initiated to trace the source of the contraband and possible forward and backward linkages.
The officer said the seizure is part of the ongoing drive against drug trafficking and narcotics abuse. He said further arrests and recoveries cannot be ruled out as the investigation progresses. [KNT]
Unemployed Youth Duped of Rs 39 Lakh on Pretext of Government Jobs
Srinagar, Jan 18: The Economic Offences Wing of Crime Branch Kashmir has registered a criminal case against seven individuals for allegedly cheating and duping innocent people, particularly unemployed youth, by promising them government jobs in exchange for money, officials said on Sunday.
Officials said the case was initiated following a written complaint received by the Economic Offences Wing, alleging that the accused persons were fraudulently inducing job aspirants by assuring them employment in various government departments, including banks, the Agriculture Department and defence services.
During the preliminary verification conducted by the Economic Offences Wing, the allegations were found to be prima facie substantiated. Officials said the accused allegedly collected around Rs 39 lakh from multiple victims for facilitating their appointments in government services. However, instead of securing legitimate employment, the victims were allegedly provided with fake and forged appointment orders.
The probe further revealed that the accused had managed and used SIM cards registered in the names of other individuals to carry out acts of cheating and fraud. Verification of the appointment orders supplied to the victims confirmed that the documents were forged and not issued by any authorised department.
Based on the findings, a case has been formally registered at Police Station Economic Offences Wing, Crime Branch Kashmir, under Sections 420, 468, 472 and 120-B of the RPC. Further investigation into the matter is underway to identify the full extent of the fraud and other possible accomplices.
The Economic Offences Wing has advised the general public, especially unemployed youth, to remain cautious of individuals or groups offering government jobs in return for money. Officials urged people to report such fraudulent activities immediately to the nearest police station or the Economic Offences Wing to prevent further victimisation. [KNT]
PM Modi addresses the Bagurumba Dwhou program in Guwahati, Assam
VINOD BHAT
Delhi, JAN 18:
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Bagurumba Dwhou 2026, a historic cultural event celebrating the rich heritage of the Bodo community at Sarusajai Stadium, Guwahati. Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister remarked that it has been his privilege to witness Assam’s culture and closely observe the traditions of the Bodo community. Highlighting that no Prime Minister has visited Assam as frequently as he has, Shri Modi emphasised his constant wish that Assam’s art and culture receive a larger platform and gain recognition across the nation and the world through grand celebrations. He noted that continuous efforts have been made in this direction, citing large-scale Bihu festivities, the expression of Jhumoir Binondini, the grand Bodo Mahotsav held in New Delhi one and a quarter years ago, and other cultural programs. The Prime Minister underlined that he never misses an opportunity to experience the unique joy of Assam’s art and culture. He stated that once again, the Bagurumba festival is being organized, describing it as a vibrant celebration of Bodo identity and a tribute to Assam’s heritage. Shri Modi extended his best wishes and congratulations to all those associated with the event, especially the artists.
Prime Minister stated that Bagurumba Dwhou is not merely a festival but a medium to honor the great Bodo tradition and to remember the eminent personalities of the Bodo society. He recalled names such as Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma, Rupnath Brahma, Satish Chandra Basumatary, Moradam Brahma, and Kanakeswar Narzary, noting their contributions to social reform, cultural renaissance, and political awakening. The Prime Minister paid respectful tribute to all such great figures of the Bodo community. He emphasized that their party considers Assam’s culture as the pride of the entire nation, and that India’s history is incomplete without Assam’s past and heritage. Shri Modi highlighted that under their government, grand festivals like Bagurumba Dwhou are organized, Bihu has been given national recognition, and efforts have led to Charaideo Moidam being included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list. He remarked that the Assamese language has been accorded classical status, and the Bodo language has been recognized as an associate official language of Assam, with a separate directorate established to strengthen education in Bodo. PM Modi underlined that due to this commitment, Bathou Dharma has been accorded full respect and recognition, and Bathou Puja has been declared a state holiday. He pointed out that it is under their government that a grand statue of warrior Lachit Borphukan has been installed and the statue of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma unveiled. He added that the traditions of devotion and social harmony of Srimanta Sankardeva and the art and consciousness of Jyoti Prasad Agarwala are honored as part of Assam’s heritage. The Prime Minister noted that it is Jyoti Prasad Agarwala’s death anniversary today and offered his tribute.
Expressing his emotions on visiting Assam, Shri Modi said he feels deeply moved seeing how far the state has progressed. He recalled that there was a time when bloodshed was frequent, but today the colors of culture shine; a time when gunfire echoed, but now the melodious sounds of Kham and Sifung prevail; a time when curfew brought silence, but now music resonates; a time of unrest and instability, but now Bagurumba’s captivating performances are being held. PM Modi stressed that such a grand celebration is not only Assam’s achievement but India’s achievement, and every citizen of the country is proud of Assam’s transformation.
Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that the people of Assam and his Bodo brothers and sisters placed their trust in him. He remarked that their governments at Union and state were entrusted with the responsibility of peace and development, and with the blessings of the people, that responsibility has been fulfilled. Shri Modi highlighted that the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord brought an end to decades of conflict, restored trust, and enabled thousands of youth to abandon violence and join the mainstream. He noted that after the accord, new opportunities in education and development emerged in the Bodo region, and peace became a part of everyday life, with the people’s efforts playing the most significant role.
Underlining that Assam’s peace, development, and pride center around its youth, who have chosen the path of peace, Shri Modi emphasised that it must be carried forward to a bright future. He stated that since the peace accord, the government has been continuously working for the development of Bodoland, accelerating the rehabilitation process, and providing thousands of youth with crores of rupees in financial assistance to help them begin anew.
Emphasising hat the results of their government’s efforts are visible today, Prime Minister highlighted that talented Bodo youth becoming cultural ambassadors of Assam, excelling in sports, dreaming with new confidence, fulfilling those dreams, and driving Assam’s progress.
Shri Modi remarked that whenever Assam’s art, culture, and identity are honored, some people feel troubled. Asking who does not appreciate Assam’s honor, Shri Modi pointed out that it was the Opposition party that opposed conferring the Bharat Ratna on Bhupen Hazarika, and it was they who opposed the semiconductor unit in Assam. Shri Modi added that even today, when he wears something connected to Assam’s culture, it is the opposition that mocks it.
PM Modi asserted that Assam and Bodoland remained cut off from the mainstream for decades due to opposition alone. He said they created instability in Assam for its political gains and pushed the state into the fire of violence. He recalled that after independence, Assam faced challenges, but instead of finding solutions, the then ruling dispensation exploited those problems for political benefit. Criticising the opposition party, Shri Modi stressed that when trust was needed, they sowed division; when dialogue was needed, they neglected it and closed the doors of communication. He highlighted that the voice of Bodoland was never properly heard. He stated that when Assam needed healing and service, they instead opened the doors for infiltrators and focused on welcoming them.
Shri Modi asserted that the opposition party does not consider the people of Assam its own, preferring foreign infiltrators who become its loyal vote bank. He remarked that under the opposition’s rule, infiltrators kept coming, occupied lakhs of bighas of land, and were aided by governments. PM Modi expressed happiness that today, under the leadership of Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, the government is freeing lakhs of bighas of land from infiltrators and restoring it to the rightful people of Assam. He highlighted that the opposition always looked at Assam and the entire Northeast with neglect, never considering its development important, and deliberately pushed the region into difficulties.
The Prime Minister emphasized that cleaning up the sins of opposition is being done by their governments at Union and state, and the pace of development visible today is proof. He noted the formation of the Bodo-Kachari Welfare Autonomous Council, the allocation of a special development package of ₹1500 crore for Bodoland, the establishment of a medical college and hospital in Kokrajhar, and the acceleration of construction of a medical college in Tamulpur. He added that nursing colleges and paramedical institutions are creating new opportunities for youth, while polytechnic and training institutes have been set up in Gobardhana, Parbatjhora, and Horisinga.
Shri Modi underlined that a separate Welfare Department and Bodoland Administrative Staff College have also been established, enabling better policy-making for the welfare of the Bodo community. He remarked that their government has bridged distances—between hearts, between Assam and Delhi, and within Assam itself through improved infrastructure. Areas once difficult to reach now have highways, and new roads are opening opportunities. He cited the Bishmuri-Saralpara road project connecting Kokrajhar to the Bhutan border, with crores allocated, and the proposed Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail project, declared a special railway project and made part of the Act East Policy, which will boost trade and tourism.
The Prime Minister stressed that when society remains connected to its roots, when dialogue and trust are strong, and when equal opportunities reach all sections, positive change becomes visible. He said Assam and Bodoland are progressing in this direction, with Assam’s confidence, capability, and progress adding new strength to India’s growth story. PM Modi highlighted that Assam is establishing itself among the fastest-growing states, its economy gaining momentum, and Bodoland and its people playing a crucial role in this transformation. He once again extended his best wishes to all for the day’s grand celebration.
Governor of Assam, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Shri Pabitra Margherita were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
Prime Minister participated in “Bagurumba Dwhou 2026”, a historic cultural event celebrating the rich heritage of the Bodo community at Sarusajai stadium, Guwahati.
On this occasion, more than 10,000 artists from the Bodo community performed Bagurumba dance in a single, synchronised presentation. Artists from 81 Legislative Assembly Constituencies from across 23 districts of the state will take part in the event
Bagurumba is one of the folk dances of the Bodo community, deeply inspired by nature. The dance symbolises blooming flowers and reflects harmony between human life and the natural world. Traditionally performed by young Bodo women, with men accompanying as musicians, the dance features gentle, flowing movements that imitate butterflies, birds, leaves and flowers. Performances are usually organised in groups, forming circles or lines that enhance its visual elegance.
Bagurumba dance holds deep cultural significance for the Bodo people. It represents peace, fertility, joy and collective harmony, and is closely associated with festivals such as Bwisagu, the Bodo New Year, and Domasi.
Director Information, DIPR Employees condole tragic demise of former officer Thakur Singh
JAMMU, JANUARY 17: Director Information, Nitish Rajora has expressed deep grief and sorrow on the tragic demise of Thakur Singh, former officer of the department , who also served as Director Public Relations, Lok Bhawan and Cultural Officer, Jammu.
In his message, the Director said that Thakur Singh had served the department in various capacities and his contribution has been widely recognised in the department.
He expressed deep grief on his tragic demise and also extended his sympathies with the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, the employees of Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), have also expressed deep grief and sorrow on the sad demise of Thakur Singh.
The Employees extended their deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and also prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.
Two Srinagar Brothers Shine at J&K UT Qwan Ki Do Championship, Qualify for Nationals
SRINAGAR, Jan 17:
In a proud moment for Srinagar, two young siblings, Muhammad Eisa Khan and Ahmad Ibrahim Khan have brought laurels to the city by winning gold medals at the J&K UT Qwan Ki Do Championship 2025–26, held at Indoor Hall, Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu.
Representing Srinagar Muhammad Eisa Khan clinched the gold medal in the 35 kg weight category, while his younger brother Ahmad Ibrahim Khan secured gold in the 26 kg weight category. With their impressive performances, both brothers have qualified for the forthcoming 7th National Qwan Ki Do Championship 2025–26.
Their achievement reflects not only their hard work and discipline but also the growing sporting talent among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Parents, and school authorities have congratulated the brothers for their outstanding success and wished them the very best for the national-level competition.
Their victory stands as an inspiration for young athletes across the Valley, proving that dedication and determination lead to excellence on the national stage.
CM Omar Abdullah Eyes Creative-Tech Partnership at IICT Mumbai
KD NEWS SERVICE
MUMBAI, Jan 17: In a significant step towards strengthening creative, technological and skill-based ecosystems in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on January 15 visited the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) campus located at the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) complex in Mumbai. The visit was aimed at exploring wide-ranging opportunities for institutional collaboration, student exchange programmes and capacity-building initiatives between IICT and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.
The Chief Minister’s visit to the IICT–NFDC campus was hosted by Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, Chief Executive Officer of IICT, along with Munjal Shroff, Member of the Governing Council of IICT. Senior faculty members and officials of the institute were also present during the engagement.
During the visit, Omar Abdullah was taken on a comprehensive and structured walkthrough of the IICT main campus, where he was briefed in detail about the institute’s academic ecosystem, pedagogical approach and state-of-the-art technological infrastructure. The walkthrough highlighted IICT’s focus on advanced creative disciplines, including animation, visual effects, gaming, comics (AVGC), and emerging immersive technologies.
As part of the programme, the Chief Minister attended a specially curated audiovisual presentation at the Rangayan Preview Theatre. The presentation offered an in-depth overview of IICT’s vision, academic framework, industry-oriented training modules and its role in nurturing future-ready creative professionals through the integration of technology and artistic innovation.
The visit continued with a live demonstration at the Anubhuti Drishya Immersive Studio Lab, where cutting-edge applications of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) were showcased. The hands-on experiential interactions demonstrated how immersive technologies are being deployed for storytelling, education, simulation and digital content creation.
A key highlight of the visit was a Digital Twin demonstration at the Photogrammetry Studio. Here, a live 3D photogrammetry scan was conducted to create a digital avatar, offering the Chief Minister first-hand exposure to the practical and commercial applications of immersive and digital twin technologies across sectors such as filmmaking, heritage conservation, gaming and virtual production.
Following the technical demonstrations, a strategic discussion session was held between the IICT leadership and the Chief Minister to deliberate potential areas of collaboration between IICT and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. The discussions focused on institutional cooperation and student exchange programmes, with special emphasis on skill development and capacity building in AVGC and emerging creative technologies. Other key areas included leveraging immersive tools for digital heritage and cultural preservation in Jammu & Kashmir, as well as developing a collaborative startup incubation and innovation ecosystem to empower youth from the region with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Speaking during the interaction, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underlined the importance of building local capacity to position Jammu & Kashmir as a competitive destination for filmmaking and creative industries. “If we want Jammu and Kashmir to become an attractive destination for filmmaking, then human talent and post-production capability must be created locally. That is where a relationship with an institution like IICT becomes important for us,” he said.
Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO of IICT, expressed optimism about forging meaningful partnerships with the Jammu & Kashmir government. He said IICT looks forward to collaborations that can directly benefit students and young talent from the region by enabling skill development, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the creative and technology-driven sectors.
After the discussions, the Chief Minister was escorted to the NFDC Bharat Pavilion and Museum, which chronicles India’s rich cinematic and creative heritage. He was briefed on the role of the NFDC Museum as a national cultural repository dedicated to preserving, presenting and celebrating the legacy of Indian cinema and creative arts. The visit concluded with the Chief Minister proceeding to his onward engagements at the NFDC campus, marking a forward-looking engagement towards integrating Jammu & Kashmir into India’s growing creative economy.