spot_imgspot_img
spot_img
Menu
Search
ePaper
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 30

Rain, Gusty Winds To Continue In J&K Till May 4; MeT Warns Of Thunderstorms, Hail

KD Desk
-
0
Rain, Gusty Winds To Continue In J&K Till May 4; MeT Warns Of Thunderstorms, Hail

Srinagar, May 2: The Meteorological Department on Saturday said that changing weather patterns will persist across Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days, bringing rain, thunderstorms and strong winds to several areas of the Union Territory.

Director MeT Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad said that on May 2, scattered places are likely to receive intermittent light rain and thundershowers, mainly during the afternoon, accompanied by gusty winds.

He said that during May 3 and 4, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places. Thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph may occur at a few locations during different parts of the day.

The department further said that on May 5, brief spells of light rain or thundershowers are likely at scattered places, mainly in the afternoon hours. From May 6 to 9, weather conditions are expected to improve, with mostly dry weather likely, although isolated showers may occur.

From May 10 to 12, the weather is likely to remain largely dry, with chances of brief light rain at isolated places during afternoon hours.

Meanwhile, the MeT Department has issued an advisory warning of possible hailstorms and gusty winds in parts of Central and North Kashmir, as well as some areas of Jammu division. It advised suspension of boating and shikara activities during afternoon to evening hours on May 3 and 4.

Residents have been advised to avoid standing near weak structures, electric poles and overhead wires, while farmers have been urged to suspend agricultural activities between May 3 and 5 in view of the expected adverse weather conditions.

GMC Srinagar bids farewell to Retiring Employees

KD Desk
-
0
GMC Srinagar bids farewell to Retiring Employees

SRINAGAR, May 01: Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar today accorded a warm farewell to four of its employees on the occasion of their superannuation.

On this occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal, Government Medical College Srinagar, felicitated the retiring officials viz.Farahat Qadir, Estate Officer; Nazir Ahmad Bhat, Senior Photographer; Syed Showkat Hussain, Lab Attendant and Mohammad Yousuf Thoker, Senior Lab Technician and conveyed her best wishes for their future endeavors. She acknowledged their long-standing and dedicated service, highlighting their significant contributions to institutional development, administrative efficiency, and the maintenance of professional standards. She further remarked that their commitment, integrity, and exemplary work ethic have set a benchmark for others to follow.

Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, also appreciated the invaluable services rendered by the retirees. He emphasized their role in strengthening institutional systems and supporting the delivery of quality healthcare services.

The function was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Saleem Itoo, Deputy Academic Registrar; Tahleela Asmat, Chief Accounts Officer; Dr. Nadia Khanday, Accounts Officer, Associated Hospitals; Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Personnel Officer; Shabir Ahmad, Assistant Director Planning, and other officers and officials of GMC Srinagar.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos as a token of appreciation and gratitude for the dedicated services of the retiring employees.

United Voices Rise Against Drugs: Community Rally Strengthens Fight for a “Nasha Mukht Bharat”

KD Desk
-
0
United Voices Rise Against Drugs: Community Rally Strengthens Fight for a “Nasha Mukht Bharat”

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, May 1: A vibrant and impactful awareness rally was organized under the banner of the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan in collaboration with Rehmatul-lil-Alameen Foundation International, bringing together diverse sections of society in a unified stand against drug abuse. The initiative aimed to highlight the growing concerns around substance abuse while promoting a collective vision of a healthier, addiction-free nation.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of civil society, youth groups, volunteers, and local officials, all of whom came together to demonstrate a shared responsibility toward eliminating the menace of narcotics. The presence of young participants added particular energy to the rally, symbolizing hope and determination for a future free from addiction.

Carrying placards with powerful messages and raising slogans advocating a drug-free lifestyle, participants marched through key areas to capture public attention. The slogans echoed calls for awareness, resilience, and the urgent need to address the root causes of drug dependency. Messages such as “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” and “Healthy Youth, Strong Nation” resonated throughout the rally, creating a strong emotional and social impact.

Speakers at the event addressed the gathering with a sense of urgency and responsibility. They emphasized that drug abuse is not merely an individual issue but a societal challenge that requires a coordinated response. Highlighting the importance of early intervention, they called upon families, educational institutions, and community leaders to remain vigilant and proactive. The role of parents and teachers in identifying early signs of substance abuse was particularly stressed, along with the need to create supportive environments where individuals can seek help without stigma.

The program also underscored the significance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the general public. Speakers noted that while enforcement plays a crucial role in curbing the supply of narcotics, long-term success depends equally on awareness, education, and community engagement.

Organizers from the Rehmatul-lil-Alameen Foundation International reiterated their commitment to continuing such initiatives, stating that sustained awareness campaigns are essential to bring about lasting behavioral change. They emphasized that the fight against drug abuse must be continuous and inclusive, involving every section of society.

The rally concluded with a renewed pledge from participants to actively contribute toward building a “Nasha Mukht Bharat.” The event not only raised awareness but also strengthened community bonds, sending a clear message that collective action remains the most powerful tool in overcoming the challenge of drug abuse.

J&K Orders Time-Bound Probe, Suspends Two Engineers After Bantalab Worksite Tragedy

KD Desk
-
0
J&K Orders Time-Bound Probe, Suspends Two Engineers After Bantalab Worksite Tragedy
KD NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, May 1:Responding to a tragic incident at a government worksite in Tathar, Bantalab, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has ordered a detailed inquiry and simultaneously suspended two engineers, signaling a firm administrative stance on accountability in public infrastructure projects.
The directive, issued by the Public Works (R&B) Department Jammu and Kashmir from the Civil Secretariat at Jammu/Srinagar, formally acknowledges the seriousness of the incident, which occurred during the execution of official works in the area. While the exact nature of the tragedy continues to be examined, similar incidents across India in recent years—often involving collapses of under-construction structures or failures linked to oversight lapses—have heightened scrutiny on construction safety norms and enforcement, lending broader context to the government’s swift response.
Under Government Order No. 154–PW(R&B) of 2026 dated May 1, a copy of which is in possession of Kashmir Despatch, sanction has been accorded for the constitution of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident in detail. The committee will be chaired by Er. Purshotam Kumar, Secretary Technical and Engineer-in-Chief of the department. He will be assisted by Er. Arit Gupta, Superintending Engineer, Public Works (R&B) Circle Jammu South, and Er. Rajan Mengi, Executive Engineer, Public Works (R&B) Division Satwari.
The terms of reference assigned to the committee are comprehensive and time-bound. It has been directed to inquire into all aspects of the incident, explicitly including any dereliction of duties on the part of officers of the department, and to fix responsibility—particularly in relation to the executing agency involved in the work. Beyond identifying lapses, the panel has also been tasked with recommending appropriate action against those found responsible and suggesting preventive measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future. The committee is required to submit its report within a strict deadline of 15 days, reflecting the urgency attached to the matter.
In a parallel development, and in accordance with Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956, the government has placed two officials under suspension pending inquiry into their conduct. The suspended officers are Er. Sahil Verma, In-charge Assistant Executive Engineer, and Er. Sajid Mir, Junior Engineer, both associated with the Public Works (R&B) Sub-Division Bhawal.
The order specifies that during the period of suspension, both engineers will remain attached to the Office of the Chief Engineer, Public Works (R&B), Zone Jammu. They will be entitled to receive suspension allowance as admissible under the applicable rules, ensuring procedural compliance while disciplinary proceedings are underway.
The directive has been issued by Anil Kumar Singh, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), “by order of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir,” reinforcing that the action carries the highest level of administrative authority within the department.
The development has drawn attention to the critical importance of oversight, accountability, and adherence to engineering standards in public works, particularly in regions experiencing rapid infrastructure expansion. As the inquiry begins, its findings are expected not only to determine responsibility in this specific case but also to influence future safety and monitoring protocols across ongoing and upcoming projects in the Union Territory.
With the committee set to report within 15 days, the coming weeks are likely to be crucial in establishing both the causes of the tragedy and the administrative course that follows.

Lt Gen Balbir Singh Takes Over As GOC 15 Corps

KD Desk
-
0
Lt Gen Balbir Singh Takes Over As GOC 15 Corps

SRINAGAR, May 1: Lieutenant General Balbir Singh on Friday assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the strategically crucial XV Corps (Chinar Corps), reinforcing leadership at a time when security dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir remain under close watch.

Headquartered in Srinagar, the Chinar Corps is responsible for guarding the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir and overseeing internal security operations across the Valley. Lt Gen Singh’s appointment comes amid sustained counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism efforts in the Union Territory.

An experienced officer with deep operational roots in Jammu and Kashmir, Lt Gen Singh has served in several key roles linked to counter-insurgency (CI) and counter-terrorism (CT) operations. Prior to his elevation, he was serving as Major General General Staff (MGGS) at the Northern Command.

An alumnus of the Indian Military Academy, Lt Gen Singh began building his Kashmir experience early in his career. He held an important position at the 8 Sector headquarters in Lolab, Kupwara, where he was actively involved in operational planning. He later commanded 1 Sector of the Rashtriya Rifles during 2018–2019, playing a key role in managing the counter-insurgency grid.

In 2023, as a Major General, he took over as GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Victor, based in Awantipora, succeeding Maj Gen Prashant Srivastava. The Victor Force is responsible for operations in south Kashmir, an area that has historically witnessed significant militant activity. During his tenure, Lt Gen Singh worked closely with formations under the Chinar Corps and Northern Command, contributing to coordinated security operations and strategic reviews.

Lok Bhavan Jammu Kashmir Celebrated Gujarat And Maharashtra’s Foundation Day

KD Desk
-
0
Lok Bhavan Jammu Kashmir Celebrated Gujarat And Maharashtra’s Foundation Day

Jammu, May 1: The Foundation Day of Gujarat and Maharashtra was celebrated with great enthusiasm at J&K Lok Bhavan, Jammu, in the presence of the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha.

Addressing a gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that Gujarat and Maharashtra are growth engines of the nation and besides massive contribution to country’s GDP and exports, their social, cultural, and spiritual legacies stand unparalleled.

“Gujarat’s soil is renowned for nurturing entrepreneurial spirit, zeal, simplicity, and innate warmth, while Maharashtra commands global respect for its enterprise, valor, and spiritual genius. I view both states as engines propelling India’s development trajectory forward,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that Gujarat’s history brims with countless sons of Bharat Mata, who elevated the nation’s honor. Revered Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi transformed India’s destiny through unyielding resolve, selfless dedication, and profound self-belief. He said Mahatma Gandhi gifted the nation the philosophy of truth, non-violence, selfless service, sacrifice, love, and tolerance, turning the freedom struggle into a mass movement. Lieutenant Governor also observed that Gandhiji’s life inspires us to stand firm by our principles amid any adversity.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that India’s pride as the world’s largest democracy is deeply rooted in the vision and ideals of Sardar Patel.“His unwavering belief in unity amidst diversity stands as our greatest achievement, a testament to his resolute commitment to “Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat.” The strength we draw from weaving together our traditions, cultures, and heritage into the fabric of progress is a living reflection of Sardar Patel’s steadfast determination and enduring legacy,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor said Maharashtra is the land of industries, spirituality, selfless-service and sacrifice. He said icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Peshwa Bajirao, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Vinayak Damodar Savarkar devoted themselves to Mother India and for the cause of national unity.

“At every sacred pilgrimage across India, the name of Ahilyabai Holkar resounds. Her vision and devotion breathed new life into the nation’s spiritual traditions and carried them forward with renewed strength,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has discovered a renewed spirit of confidence, dignity, and progress. He said over the past 12 years, his guidance has inspired citizens to transform resolve into action, reshaping the nation’s landscape with development and determination and his tenure has marked a historic milestone, making him India’s longest-serving elected Head of Government.

“Today, Indian diaspora across the world is radiating with pride, as Hon’ble Prime Minister has restored the nation’s timeless prestige. A new sense of self-respect stirs within every citizen, uniting all sections of society in the shared vision of a developed India by 2047. By abrogating Article 370 on August 5, 2019, he also fulfilled the unfinished dream of Sardar Patel, strengthening the foundation of Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Indian Army Successfully Conducts ‘Op Netra 1.0’, High-Altitude Mega Eye Camp in Leh, Ladakh

KD Desk
-
0
Indian Army Successfully Conducts ‘Op Netra 1.0’, High-Altitude Mega Eye Camp in Leh, Ladakh

Ladakh, May 01: In a landmark achievement in high-altitude medical care and humanitarian outreach, the Indian Army successfully conducted a four-day Advanced Surgical Eye Camp, ‘Op Netra 1.0,’ at 153 General Hospital, Leh from April 27-30, 2026. The camp was inaugurated by GOC 14 Corps, Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla.

A testament to seamless civil-military cooperation, the camp facilitated screening of a total 950 patients from across seven districts of Ladakh, including remote areas of Chushul, Hanle, Durbuk, Demchok, Fukche, Drass, Zanskar, Batalik, Chumathang, and Turtuk. The surgical team, led by Brigadier (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Mishra successfully performed 214 specialized procedures, including 197 complex cataract surgeries and 10 vitreo-retinal interventions, along with advanced procedures such as Glued Intraocular Lens implantation, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery, vitrectomy, pterygium excision, and intraocular lens repositioning and restored vision of 15 complete visually impaired patients.

A key highlight of the operation was the launch of the indigenously developed Op Netra App by 153 General Hospital. It helps in streamlining patient management by enabling end-to-end digitization of records, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and automating surgical scheduling through QR code-based identification, thereby ensuring patient safety and operational efficiency in a high-volume, high-altitude setting.

This initiative contributes to the ongoing nationwide effort that has delivered over 2,500 sight-restoring surgeries since November 2025, following similar camps conducted in Udhampur, Dehradun, Jaipur, Bagdogra, and Gorakhpur. The mission was further enabled by the Indian Air Force through the airlift of advanced medical equipment, ensuring that the standard of care matched the highest benchmarks.

The camp concluded with a closing ceremony attended by the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, VK Saxena and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma. The successful conduct of Op Netra 1.0 under the leadership of Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, reinforces the Government’s unwavering commitment to the principle of “Nation First” and to ensuring that no citizen, regardless of geography, is deprived of essential healthcare services.

ACB nabs Head Constable in Srinagar trap case for taking ₹15,000 bribe

KD Desk
-
0
ACB nabs Head Constable in Srinagar trap case for taking ₹15,000 bribe

Srinagar, May 01: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested a Head Constable posted in Srinagar district after he was allegedly caught red-handed accepting a bribe of ₹15,000 from a complainant.

An official told  the ACB received a written complaint alleging that Head Constable Parvaiz Ahmad Rather (EXK No. 992204), posted at District Srinagar, had demanded ₹15,000 to remove the complainant’s name from the list of accused in case FIR No. 09/2026 of Police Station Soura, Srinagar.

During discreet verification by a designated officer of ACB Srinagar, the accused public servant initially demanded ₹50,000, which was later settled at ₹15,000, the official added.

On the basis of the complaint and verification findings, an offense under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 was found prima facie established against the accused. Accordingly, FIR No. 08/2026 was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar on May 1, 2026, and investigation was taken up.

A trap team was subsequently constituted. The Head Constable was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe — ₹5,000 in cash and ₹10,000 through a cheque — near District Police Lines Srinagar. The amount was recovered on the spot, the official said.

Further investigation into the matter is underway he added.

Several workers feared trapped as under-construction bridge collapses in Jammu

KD Desk
-
0
Several workers feared trapped as under-construction bridge collapses in Jammu

Jammu, May 01: At least five to seven workers are feared trapped after a portion of an under-construction bridge collapsed during construction work in the Bantalab area of Jammu on Friday, official sources said.

Sources told that several labourers were present at the site when the incident occurred. “Five to seven workers are feared to be trapped under the debris,” they said.

Panic gripped the area soon after the collapse. Police, civil administration officials, Army and rescue teams rushed to the spot immediately after receiving information about the incident.

A rescue operation is underway to evacuate the trapped workers, with JCBs and other heavy machinery pressed into service.

A large crowd has gathered at the site as rescue efforts continue—(KNO)

*More details are awaited*

Body of missing Pulwama boy retrieved from Rambi Ara after 5 days

KD Desk
-
0
Body of missing Pulwama boy retrieved from Rambi Ara after 5 days

Shopian, May 01: The body of a four-year-old boy from Pulwama, who had gone missing after slipping into a stream in south Kashmir’s Shopian district, was on Friday recovered from the Ranbiara nallah in the Hirpora area.

An official said that the deceased, identified as Mohammad Hanzala of Tiken village in Pulwama, had accidentally fallen into the fast-flowing stream near Dubjan Bridge on April 27.

He said the strong currents swept the minor away instantly.

“The body was retrieved this morning from a downstream location in the Ranbiara stream after a five-day search operation,” the official said.

He added that teams from the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) had launched a rescue operation soon after the incident.Meanwhile, specialised equipment was used to search deeper sections of the nallah, while additional manpower was deployed to intensify the operation. Expert civilian body retrievers, including a well-known volunteer from Doda, were also engaged to enhance recovery efforts

1...293031...5,050Page 30 of 5,050

About us

Established as English Daily Newspaper in 2011, “The Kashmir Despatch” is registered with the Registrar of Newspapers of India (RNI) vide its number JKENG/2011/39338.

Company

The latest

J&K PDD Secures National Recognition under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Kashmir
SRINAGAR, JUNE 2026: Jammu & Kashmir Power Development Department...

J&K Government Delegates DDO Powers to District and Divisional Administrations for MHA-Funded Police Schemes

Top News
TAUSEEF AHMAD  SRINAGAR, June 4: In a significant administrative measure...

Principal GMC Srinagar Inaugurates CHD Screening Camp; 30 Children Selected for Free Heart Surgeries Under Rotary’s ‘Gift of Life’ Initiative

Kashmir
Srinagar, June 4:In a major healthcare outreach initiative aimed...

© Kashmir Despatch. All Rights Reserved. Made with GITS