Authorities recover cigarettes, school uniforms; students counseled on discipline

Touseef Wani

Ganderbal, Mar 30 : A troubling situation has come to light in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, where several students from Boys Higher Secondary School were reportedly found roaming in Qamria Park during school hours instead of attending classes.

Locals expressed serious concern over the rising trend of truancy, calling it alarming and urging immediate intervention from authorities.

An appeal has been made to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, SSP Ganderbal, school administration, and the Education Department to take strict measures to ensure discipline and regular attendance in schools.

Civil society members also issued a stern warning, stating that students found violating school norms and loitering in public places during class hours would be handed over to the police.

Acting on directions from senior officials, the Station House Officer (SHO) Ganderbal conducted a surprise raid at Qamria Park. During the operation, several students were caught bunking classes. Authorities also recovered cigarettes and hidden school uniforms at the site.

The detained students were counseled on the spot and advised to adhere to school discipline. Officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining order and ensuring that students remain focused on their education.

Further monitoring and strict action are expected as authorities intensify efforts to curb truancy in the area.

Shreya Singhal Given Additional Charge as Director Information; Dr Sagar Posted as Special Secretary

TAUSEEF AHMAD

SRINAGAR, Mar 30: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday issued fresh transfer and posting orders, with Shreya Singhal, IAS, being assigned the additional charge of Director, Information, J&K, while Dr. Sagar Doifode Dattatray, IAS, has been posted as Special Secretary to the Government in the Agriculture Production Department.

As per Government Order No. 501-JK(GAD) of 2026 issued by the General Administration Department, Shreya Singhal (AGMUT: 2020), who is currently serving as Managing Director of the J&K Tourism Development Corporation and holding additional charge of CEO, JKERA, will now also hold the charge of Director, Information, J&K. She is scheduled to assume the new role from April 1, 2026, in addition to her existing responsibilities.

Dr. Sagar Doifode Dattatray (AGMUT: 2014), who was serving as Director, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary in the Agriculture Production Department. He will also hold the additional charge of Mission Director, Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP). He replaces Sandeep Kumar, IFS, who has been relieved of these additional charges and will await further orders in the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department.

Nazim Zai Khan, IAS (AGMUT: 2013), has been posted as Director, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Kashmir. He was earlier serving as Mission Director, Mission Vatsalya/Shakti (ICPS), J&K.

Mahima Madan, IAS (AGMUT: 2021), Additional Secretary in the Information Technology Department, has been divested of the additional charge of Additional Secretary in the Resident Commission, New Delhi.
Amit Gupta, IAS (AGMUT: 2023), awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Pahalgam, replacing Qaiser Mehmood, JKAS, who will now await further orders.

At the JKAS level, Rajesh Kumar Shavan, Special Secretary in the Tribal Affairs Department, has been transferred and posted as Director, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Jammu, vice Rifat Kohli, who has been asked to await further posting.

The order stated that the transfers and postings have been made in the interest of administration and shall take effect immediately.

TAUSEEF AHMAD

SRINAGAR, Mar 30: A powerful spell of thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall is expected to lash most parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next 12 hours, raising concerns about possible disruptions across the Valley.

According to Kashmir Weather Forecast, intense rain is likely to affect North, Central, and South Kashmir districts, with authorities and residents advised to remain alert. The weather system is expected to bring widespread precipitation, with some areas likely to witness strong lightning and thunder activity.

Higher reaches of the Union Territory are also bracing for fresh snowfall. Moderate to heavy snow is forecast over key mountain passes including Razdan Top, Sinthan Top, Sadhna Top, and Zojila Pass, which could impact traffic movement and connectivity.

The forecast further warns of isolated locations experiencing intense lightning strikes and heavy thundering, posing risks to life and property.

Residents, especially those in vulnerable and hilly areas, have been urged to take necessary precautions, while travelers are advised to check road and weather conditions before undertaking journeys.
More updates are awaited as the situation develops.

KD News Service

Srinagar, Mar 30: In a landmark step towards ecological restoration and climate resilience in the Western Himalayas, the “One Million Trees for Pir Panjal” initiative was formally inaugurated with remarkable enthusiasm, unity, and a renewed sense of environmental responsibility. Led by the School for Rural Development and Environment (SRDE), in collaboration with the Nature Conservancy Alliance (NCA) and supported by the Forest Department, Jammu & Kashmir, the campaign represents far more than a plantation drive—it is a transformative people’s movement dedicated to healing the fragile ecosystems of the Pir Panjal range.

The initiative was officially launched by renowned climate justice activist and Founder of SRDE, Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, in the presence of distinguished civil society leaders, forest officials, academicians, and international representatives, including IHRO SAARC Director Ms. Roshni Bhattarai. The event witnessed vibrant participation from students and scholars of the Faculty of Forestry at SKUAST-K, alongside educators, youth groups, women’s collectives, and local communities—collectively reflecting a powerful and shared commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action.
Marking the beginning of its first phase, a large-scale plantation drive was simultaneously launched in the Shukhnag Forest Range of Pir Panjal Division Budgam.

This milestone event signals the operationalization of an ambitious vision to plant one million trees across the Pir Panjal landscape. The drive is being implemented through a collaborative framework involving SRDE, NCA, the Tosamaidan Bachav Front (TBF), and the Shukhnag Conservation and Development Foundation (SCDF), with strong institutional support from the Jammu & Kashmir Forest Department.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool underscored the deeper philosophy behind the initiative:

“This is not merely about planting trees; it is about healing our mountains. The forests of Pir Panjal sustain our water systems, Glaciar Ecology,biodiversity, and climate resilience. To protect them is to secure the future of Jammu & Kashmir, a future that is safe, sustainable, and green.”

He further emphasized that the campaign is as much about people as it is about trees.
“Our goal is to plant one million trees across the Pir Panjal Range, but equally important is to inspire and engage communities, especially our youth as custodians of these forests. True conservation lies in collective ownership and sustained participation,” he added, while announcing that additional plantation drives are planned across Budgam before the initiative expands to the broader Pir Panjal region.

With over 16 years of dedicated work, SRDE has consistently remained at the forefront of research and grassroots action in mountain ecology, biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, wetlands Conservation and climate justice across Jammu & Kashmir. Having already planted more than 2.7 lakh trees, the organisation has demonstrated a strong track record of impactful environmental interventions. This campaign builds upon that legacy, aiming to restore degraded landscapes, revive biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience through inclusive, community-driven approaches.

The organisers highlighted with serious concern that unregulated tourism, unchecked infrastructure expansion, and unsustainable development practices have caused significant ecological stress in the eco-fragile zones of the Pir Panjal regionand accross the valley.The initiative therefore calls for a decisive shift towards sustainable development pathways grounded in ecological balance, indigenous knowledge systems, and community stewardship.

Officials from the Forest Department were present at the plantation site, extending technical expertise, providing saplings, and ensuring scientific planting methods to enhance survival rates. The Range Officer of Sukhnag Range appreciated the initiative and apprised participants of ongoing forestry schemes, stating:

“We sincerely acknowledge the efforts of SRDE J&K, which has consistently been at the forefront of protecting forests and ecological interests. Their work in research and community-based action is commendable and continues to inspire young officers within the department.”

The plantation drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, Scholars from Forest division SKAUS-K , Environmentist s, volunteers, and local communities, all actively contributing to the planting process and pledging to nurture and protect the saplings. The event reflected a rare and encouraging convergence of stakeholders united by a shared vision of ecological restoration.
Welcoming the participants, Molvi Maqbool, President of the Shukhnag Conservation and Development Foundation (SCDF), highlighted the ethical and spiritual dimensions of environmental stewardship.

“It is our Islamic duty to plant trees and protect water, biodiversity, and our mountain landscapes. These natural resources are a sacred trust for future generations,” he stated. He further assured that SCDF, along with the Tosamaidan Bachav Front (TBF), would continue to stand firmly with SRDE’s initiatives and appealed to Imams and Khateebs across Jammu & Kashmir to emphasize environmental protection and plantation during Friday sermons.

Adding further momentum, Prof. Billal Bhat reaffirmed SRDE’s long-term commitment to ecological advocacy:

“SRDE will continue to lead such plantation initiatives and remain actively engaged in campaigns defending nature and communities. Our collective responsibility is to build a greener, more resilient future.”
Mushtaq Budgam, representing the Gujjar-Bakerwal Youth Welfare Conference (GBYWC) & FRC-J&K, expressed unwavering solidarity with the initiative:

“The Gujjar-Bakerwal youth will always remain shoulder to shoulder in this noble cause led by Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool. Protecting forests and rangelands is directly linked to our livelihoods, culture, and identity,” he remarked.
Peer Sheikh Ghulam Mohideen, Chairperson of the Pir Panjal Conservation Foundation (PCF), stressed the strategic and ecological significance of the campaign:

“The conservation of Pir Panjal is vital not only for our communities but for the entire Kashmir region, particularly for its water security. PCF is committed to planting diverse species of trees throughout the year to strengthen ecological balance and resilience,” he stated.

In her address, Ms. Abiza Maqbool, Youth Coordinator at NCA and a forestry professional, passionately called upon the youth to take ownership of the movement, emphasizing that the future of Kashmir’s ecological security rests in their hands.
The event also witnessed the presence of Ms. Rashada from Azerbaijan, teachers from the Education Department, and members of various civil society organisations, further reinforcing both local and international solidarity for environmental conservation.

The organisers reiterated that the “One Million Trees for Pir Panjal” initiative is not a one-time activity but an evolving, long-term movement designed to mobilize communities, institutions, and individuals across regions. By integrating scientific knowledge with grassroots participation, the campaign aims to establish a sustainable and replicable model for ecological restoration in mountain ecosystems.

The programme concluded with a joint vote of thanks by SRDE, NCA, SCDF, and the Forest Department, expressing sincere gratitude to all participants and reaffirming their collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

The organisers have issued a strong and heartfelt call to civil society, youth, women, educators, and community leaders across Jammu & Kashmir to actively join this movement, to plant, protect, to restore and preserve our Forests . At a time when ecological challenges are intensifying,Heat waves are on rise ,such collective action stands as a powerful testament to shared responsibility and hope.

The message is urgent and inspiring: the mountains of Pir Panjal must not only survive, they must thrive—green, resilient, and life sustaining for generations to come.
SRDE and NCA team extends gratitude & thanks to the Forest department for the support especially To DFO PirPanjal Syed Waseem and CCF Kashmir Mr Irfan Rasool IFSC.

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, Mar 29: In a significant step towards strengthening the fight against tuberculosis, the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences on Sunday organised an orientation programme for postgraduate residents to sensitise them on the growing challenges posed by tuberculosis and their pivotal role in its elimination.

The programme, held on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day, was aimed at enhancing awareness, sharpening clinical understanding, and encouraging young doctors to actively contribute to tuberculosis control efforts. The initiative formed part of the ongoing 100 Days Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, a focused drive to accelerate the detection, treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis across the country.

The campaign was formally inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and seeks to intensify efforts in identifying undiagnosed cases, ensuring timely treatment, and implementing preventive strategies, particularly among high-risk and vulnerable populations. The campaign aligns with India’s ambitious goal of eliminating tuberculosis in the near future.

The orientation programme commenced with an inaugural session highlighting the importance of sustained awareness and collective action against tuberculosis, which continues to remain a major public health concern. Speakers emphasised that despite medical advancements, TB control requires continuous vigilance, early diagnosis, and strict adherence to treatment protocols.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from postgraduate residents, senior faculty members, and healthcare professionals from multiple disciplines, reflecting a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackling the disease. Experts stressed that young medical professionals, especially postgraduate residents, are at the forefront of healthcare delivery and play a crucial role in strengthening TB surveillance systems, improving early detection rates, and ensuring patient compliance with treatment regimens.

During the sessions, participants were sensitised about updated clinical practices, diagnostic protocols, and patient-centric care models under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). Discussions also focused on addressing challenges such as drug-resistant TB, stigma associated with the disease, and the need for community outreach.
Senior officials present on the occasion included the Director SKIMS and EOSG, Dean Medical Faculty, Head of the Department of General Medicine, Nodal Officer NTEP (Clinical Side), and Medical Superintendent, along with other senior faculty members. They collectively underscored the importance of capacity building among young doctors to achieve tangible progress in TB elimination.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from the participants to actively contribute to the mission of a TB-free society through dedicated clinical practice, awareness generation, and community engagement.

Minister Javid Dar Says Project Will Generate Jobs, Reduce Dependence on Imported Bulbs

Anantnag, Mar 29 : Minister for Agriculture Production J&K Javaid Ahmad Dar on Sunday inaugurated a Tulip Garden at Sagam in Kokernag, aimed at promoting floriculture and boosting local employment.

He was accompanied by MLA Dooru Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K and other senior officials of the Agriculture Department.

Speaking to reporters in Anantnag, Minister Dar said, “Every year we used to procure tulip bulbs from outside, which involved significant expenditure. Therefore, it was necessary to create our own ecosystem. This responsibility was entrusted to the university, and they have executed it very well.”

He said that an amount of ₹10 crore has been allocated for the development of the farm, where research, experiments and advanced cultivation practices will be carried out. “This initiative will bring new prosperity to the area, and I am happy to see the strong support extended by the local people,” he added.

Highlighting benefits for locals, the Minister said, “This is still at an early stage, but a good beginning has been made. With time, it will grow further and create economic opportunities. Tourist activity will increase, new avenues will open, and people, especially farmers, will get employment.”

He further said that the project will help transfer tulip cultivation technology to farmers. “Earlier, we depended on imports from countries like the Netherlands. Now we will train farmers under a cluster-based approach so they can grow bulbs locally, which will also be procured by the department,” he said.

Describing the initiative as a major step, the Minister said it is a gift not only for South Kashmir but for the entire Jammu and Kashmir, adding that the concept was developed and successfully implemented by the university. (KNC)

Tauseef Ahmad

Srinagar, March 29: In a proud and inspiring moment for Jammu & Kashmir, Mohammad Altaf Matahanji, popularly known by his pen name A. R. Matahanji, was conferred with the Swami Vivekananda Rashtriya Yuva Puraskar 2026, a National Level Award, during a prestigious National Conference held today at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, Srinagar, J&K. The event, themed “Mission Vishwa Guru Bharat”, brought together distinguished personalities, scholars, writers, and social contributors from across the country.

The national-level award ceremony was organized by Swami Vivekananda National Peace Spiritual Cultural Centre Bharat in collaboration with Naturo Alternative Medical Science Research Federation Bharat, Zenith Book of World Records, and World Book of Star Records. The award was presented by Chief Guest Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and Minister of State, in the presence of Guest of Honour, Padma Shri Dr Vikas Mahatme, Ex-Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (Nagpur, Maharashtra), Dr Rajib Pal, Organiser, SWIPSCC, Bharat, other eminent dignitaries and delegates from across India.
The honour marks a significant milestone for Bandipora district, as A. R. Matahanji continues to elevate Kashmir’s literary voice to national and international platforms. Emerging from a humble Wullar-fringe background, Matahanji’s journey symbolizes resilience, intellectual depth, and creative brilliance. His writing embodies the spirit of Alim (knowledge), Adab (literary refinement), and Aab (dignity), transforming lived experiences into profound literary expressions.

His widely acclaimed literary work The Pearls of Pain has earned him remarkable global recognition. The book, known for its philosophical depth and emotional resonance, has crossed geographical and cultural boundaries, gaining appreciation across national, continental and international record platforms.

Pertinent to mention, Matahanji has been accorded with global recognition and record-breaking achievements. His literary excellence has been formally acknowledged by UN Book of World Records, which conferred a World Record upon him for creating a deeply moving literary work that transforms human suffering into a narrative of healing and hope. At the continental level, Asian Book of World Records honoured him for literary excellence, recognizing his work as a significant Asian contribution that bridges classical literary traditions with modern sensibilities. Nationally, National Book of Records (India) verified his work as a record-setting literary achievement, highlighting its lyrical depth, emotional honesty, and inspiring resilience. The citations praised the book’s emotional depth and philosophical insight, describing it as a global voice of conscience in contemporary literature.

Not only this, earlier this year, Matahanji received the International Icon Award 2026 from International World Records, followed by the International Star Award and recognition from Orient Book of World Records, acknowledging his philosophical insight, social consciousness, and global literary impact.

Currently serving in the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, Matahanji’s achievements reflect a harmonious blend of public service and creative excellence. His accomplishments have not only elevated his personal stature but have also brought recognition to his department, district, and the larger cultural identity of the entire Jammu & Kashmir.

What makes his journey even more extraordinary is the overwhelming media attention it has inspired. Despite emerging from a marginalised Wullar-fringe background, A. R. Matahanji became the first-ever Kashmiri writer, who’s deeply moving journey was headlined and featured by more than 200 prominent news agencies and portals across India, spanning print, digital, and electronic media, transforming a once-quiet Kashmiri voice into a voice that now echoes across nations and continents.

Among the prominent platforms that have carried his story are India Tribune Times, Times of India Daily, Report World, The Hindustan Express, Indian Express Newsfeed, Business Line Print, Scroll India News, India Today Daily, India Today Newsflash, The Indian Post, Madhya Pradesh News Tribune, India Forbes News, India Global Live, Indian Press Wire, Standard News Wire, News India Network, India Mirror News, India Buzz Times, Indian Express News, India News Nation, The India Brief and India Watch Daily, alongside extensive coverage across regional and pan-India digital media networks. This unprecedented coverage transformed a quiet voice from Wullar into a globally acknowledged literary figure.

The conferment of the Swami Vivekananda Rashtriya Yuva Puraskar 2026 further cements Matahanji’s role as a cultural ambassador of Kashmir’s literary heritage. His recognition at the national conference underscores the power of literature to transcend boundaries and inspire humanity. Observers note that Matahanji’s writing does not merely narrate pain, it dignifies it. His words heal, inspire, and elevate, reminding readers that adversity can be transformed into wisdom and hope.

As Bandipora celebrates this remarkable achievement, A. R. Matahanji’s journey stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and youth across the region. From the tranquil shores of Wullar Lake to national and global recognition, his success echoes a powerful message: when words are born of honesty and courage, even the quietest valley can resonate from Wullar to the world.