Srinagar, May 01:The Special Crime Wing Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Srinagar in connection with a multi-lakh government job fraud case, officials said.

The chargesheet has been filed in FIR No. 09/2019 under Sections 201, 419, 420, 468, 471, and 120-B of the RPC against three accused — Fayaz Ahmad Khan of Maloora Shalteng Srinagar, Showkat Ahmad Shah of Shanzipora Handwara, and Owais Ahmad Rather of Shalteng Khwaja Bagh.

The case stems from a complaint lodged by residents of Pulwama, who alleged that the accused persons duped them of lakhs of rupees on the pretext of securing government jobs for their children and relatives.

During the course of investigation, it was revealed that the accused, acting in criminal conspiracy, impersonated influential officials and issued fake appointment orders purportedly from the Forest Department. These documents were later verified and found to be forged.

The accused had allegedly collected huge sums of money in cash from the victims under the guise of arranging “backdoor entry” into government service.

Officials said the challan has now been presented before the competent court for judicial determination.

Meanwhile, the Crime Branch has urged the general public to remain cautious and vigilant against such fraudulent schemes. People have been advised to report any such incidents to the SSP Special Crime Wing Kashmir or submit complaints through the official email ID of the department.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to taking strict action against those involved in job frauds and protecting citizens from financial exploitation.

“Service to cut travel time to 4 hours and 50 minutes between two Capitals”

VINOD BHAT

SRINAGAR, April 30: In a major milestone for rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the first direct Vande Bharat Express from Jammu reached Srinagar on Thursday, marking seamless rail integration between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country.

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, April 30: As part of the ambitious “Under 100 Days Nasha Mukt J&K” campaign, SKIMS Medical College Bemina carried its anti-drug awareness initiative to the grassroots level by organizing an engaging awareness and sensitization program at a coaching institute in Baghat, Srinagar, on Thursday. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 130 students, including both boys and girls preparing for competitive examinations.

The session opened with trainee doctors Zara and Farhaan setting the tone for the day by addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by aspirants—stress management.

They highlighted how academic pressure often pushes students toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use, and emphasized the importance of adopting positive strategies such as mindfulness, disciplined routines, and peer support. Their message strongly underlined that temporary relief through harmful substances can lead to long-term consequences.

Adding depth to the discussion, Professor Ashfaq from the Department of Community Medicine delivered a compelling talk describing substance abuse as “a trap with an easy entry but a difficult exit.” He urged students to recognize early warning signs and resist peer pressure, stressing that refusing cigarettes is often the first crucial step in saying no to drugs altogether. His practical insights resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom are at a vulnerable stage of life.

A particularly impactful segment of the program was led by Clinical Psychologist Kaunsar Sidiq, who conducted an interactive session on the psychological and social impact of substance abuse. Drawing from real-life experiences at the Addiction Treatment Facility of SKIMS Medical College Bemina, she shared case studies that illustrated how addiction can derail promising futures while also emphasizing that recovery is possible with timely intervention and support. Her session struck an emotional chord, making the issue more relatable and urgent for the young attendees.

The program also featured a lively question-and-answer session, during which students openly discussed their concerns, misconceptions, and challenges related to stress and substance use. Experts from SKIMS Medical College provided thoughtful, evidence-based responses, creating a safe space for dialogue and learning.

The event concluded with trainee doctor Zaid delivering insightful closing remarks, encouraging students to stay focused on their goals and maintain a strong sense of purpose. He emphasized that clarity of direction in life acts as a protective factor against distractions, including substance abuse.

Organizers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach of the campaign, announcing plans to conduct similar awareness programs across other educational institutions in the region. These efforts are being carried out under the guidance and dynamic leadership of Principal Fazlul Qadir Parray, whose vision continues to drive community-oriented health initiatives.

The event not only educated students but also inspired them to become ambassadors of a drug-free society, marking another meaningful step toward the broader goal of a “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir.”

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: The Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, today flagged off the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express augmented from 8 to 20 coaches. Speaking at the flagging of ceremony in presence of Union Science and Technology Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh, J&K Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, Members of Parliament Shri Ghulam Ali Khatana and Shri Sat Paul Sharma at Jammu Railway Station, Shri Vaishnaw described it as a landmark achievement in the history of Indian Railways. He highlighted the transformative impact of the service for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, terming it an important lifeline that provides seamless connectivity, promotes tourism, and strengthens the regional economy.

The Minister noted that the Vande Bharat service in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed 100% occupancy from the very first day of operations, reflecting strong public acceptance. He further informed that over 5.5 lakh passengers have already travelled on these trains. The Minister said that regional cuisines, including Dogri and Kashmiri dishes, have been introduced onboard, offering a culturally enriching journey, particularly for pilgrims and tourists.

Highlighting the technological advancements, Shri Vaishnaw stated that Vande Bhaart trains for Jammu and Kashmir are specially designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as minus 10 degree Celsius. He said the trains are equipped with advanced operating systems and electronics suited for high-altitude conditions.
The Minister emphasized that improved rail connectivity in J&K has significantly boosted freight operations and contributed to reducing the cost of essential commodities, including cement priced below 50 rupees per bag. He informed that efficient logistics have enabled the supply of essential goods, including products from Amul, and facilitated the transportation of over 2 crore kilograms of apples from Kashmir to Delhi. He added that transportation of perishable produce such as cherries is also expected to become easier, benefiting farmers and traders in the region.

Shri Vaishnaw informed that two Vande Bharat services comprising  20-coach configurations, are now operational, with a focus on ensuring stability and maintenance in the challenging Himalayan terrain and tunnel systems. He further stated that work is underway for doubling of the railway line between Qazigund and Baramulla to enhance capacity. He informed that projects such as the Poonch–Rajouri rail link and the Uri–Baramulla extension are under planning and DPR stages.

The Minister further highlighted that the Government is undertaking key infrastructure initiatives, including the redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station with additional platforms and improvements in the Jalandhar–Jammu rail link. He also noted that the Union Cabinet approval for the Delhi–Ambala four-laning project will further enhance connectivity and provide benefits to the residents of Jammu & Kashmir.
Later, speaking to mediapersons onboard the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, Shri Vaishnaw stated that a major transformation has taken place in rail connectivity with the operationalisation of the rail link between Jammu and Srinagar. The improved connectivity has significantly enhanced the ease of transportation of both goods and passengers in the region. He said that it will benefit passengers from all over the country by providing access by railways to the hilly region of Jammu and Kashmir by a single exchange at Jammu round the year with services being provided twice a day.

Highlighting the impact on freight movement, the Minister noted that transportation of automobiles, two-wheelers, cement, steel and salt to the Kashmir Valley has become more efficient. Simultaneously, the improved rail network has facilitated faster and more reliable movement of horticultural and perishable produce such as apples, cherries, milk and other fruits from the Valley to markets across the country.
The Minister said that the Railways is now focusing on increasing the carrying capacity of trains operating between Jammu and Srinagar. He informed that key infrastructure initiatives, including installation of automatic signalling systems and construction of additional crossing stations, are being undertaken to enhance operational efficiency and ensure seamless train movement. Other technological and operational innovations are also being introduced.

The Minister said that Jammu Tawi Railway Station is being redeveloped at a rapid pace with a modern design. He informed that a total of four railway stations are currently being constructed or upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir to provide improved passenger amenities and infrastructure.
On upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the Minister assured that special arrangements will be made by the Railways to facilitate pilgrims, with a focus on safety and convenience.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh said the introduction of this direct train service to Jammu and Kashmir is set to significantly enhance ease of travel, improve logistics efficiency, and promote ease of doing business across the region. The Minister emphasized that improved rail connectivity is expected to lead to a substantial rise in tourist and pilgrim inflow to important destinations in the region, while also facilitating seamless and efficient movement of security personnel.

After reaching Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Station, the Railway Minister inspected the Anji Bridge and the Chenab Bridge on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). He was accompanied by Union Minister for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh and senior railway officials.

Srinagar, April 30: The Bharatiya Janata Party, Jammu & Kashmir, has welcomed the inauguration of the direct Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu and Srinagar. Party State Spokesperson Danish Bhat termed it a landmark development that significantly strengthens connectivity and economic integration within the Union Territory.

Bhat said that the direct rail link between Jammu and Srinagar fulfils a long-standing aspiration of the people of both regions. He noted that earlier, passengers traveling between Jammu and Srinagar had to change trains at Katra, as services operated in segments. The introduction of a direct service between Jammu and Srinagar now marks a decisive step forward in seamless rail connectivity.

Expressing gratitude to the Union Government under the leadership of Narendra Modi, Bhat stated that this initiative reflects a clear commitment to inclusive development and infrastructure expansion in Jammu and Kashmir. He added that such transformative projects had remained confined to announcements under previous governments, whereas the present dispensation has ensured timely execution on the ground.

He emphasized that the direct Vande Bharat service will provide a major boost to trade, tourism, and local industries by facilitating faster and more reliable movement of people and goods. “This development will open new avenues for investment, enhance business prospects, and generate opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir,” Bhat said.

Highlighting public sentiment, Bhat remarked that people across the region have widely welcomed this initiative, describing it as a historic step towards mainstream economic integration with the rest of the country.

He further urged the authorities to consider increasing the frequency of daily services in view of the anticipated demand, so that maximum benefit reaches the common people.

Bhat reiterated that the direct Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express stands as a symbol of progress, connectivity, and the government’s resolve to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a hub of growth and opportunity.

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, April 30: Raising serious public health concerns, Director of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, on Thursday revealed that Srinagar district is witnessing one of the highest burdens of lung cancer cases at the national level, with smoking identified as a major contributing factor. He made these remarks while addressing the media during an interaction held alongside the inauguration of newly upgraded medical infrastructure at the institute.

Highlighting the growing severity of the issue, Prof. Ganie noted that the trend is deeply concerning and requires both medical intervention and public awareness. He pointed out that lifestyle factors, particularly tobacco consumption, continue to play a critical role in the rising incidence of lung cancer in the region. The Director emphasized that while treatment facilities are being strengthened, prevention and early detection must now become an equally important focus.

In response to the increasing cancer burden, SKIMS has undertaken a series of measures to upgrade its oncology services. According to Prof. Ganie, the institute has been steadily enhancing its diagnostic and treatment capabilities, ensuring that patients have access to advanced care within the region. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve outcomes for cancer patients and reduce the need for referrals outside Jammu and Kashmir.

Looking ahead, the institute is preparing to establish a dedicated preventive oncology department—an initiative that marks a significant shift toward proactive healthcare.

This upcoming facility will focus on large-scale screening programs aimed at identifying cancers at an early stage, when they are more treatable and outcomes are significantly better. The department will also play a key role in spreading awareness about risk factors, including smoking, and promoting healthier lifestyle choices among the population.
Prof. Ganie stressed that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in combating cancer. By introducing systematic screening and preventive strategies, SKIMS aims not only to treat cancer but also to reduce its incidence over time. He added that the new department will help bridge the gap between diagnosis and prevention, ensuring that individuals at risk are identified before the disease progresses to advanced stages.

The announcement comes at a time when healthcare institutions across the country are increasingly focusing on preventive models to tackle non-communicable diseases. For Srinagar, where the burden of lung cancer is reportedly rising, the move is expected to have far-reaching implications in improving public health outcomes.

With its dual approach of strengthening treatment infrastructure and investing in prevention, SKIMS is positioning itself to address one of the region’s most pressing health challenges. The proposed preventive oncology department, once operational, is likely to become a cornerstone in the fight against cancer—shifting the focus from late-stage treatment to early intervention and long-term disease control.