Kupwara, July 26: In a significant outreach programme aimed at strengthening the farming community in the border areas, the top leadership of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, along with Dr Parvender Sheoran, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana, and Director Extension Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, visited the Zero Line in Keran sector of Kupwara district on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

The programme was organised under the supervision and guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai and Director Extension, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, with the efforts of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara. The delegation included scientists and non-scientific staff of KVK Kupwara, who travelled to one of the country's last border villages to interact directly with the farming community.

During the visit, the SKUAST-K and ICAR team inspected agricultural fields, interacted with local farmers, and discussed various modern farming practices to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen the rural economy. The experts encouraged farmers to adopt scientific and sustainable agricultural techniques for enhancing their income and ensuring long-term agricultural development.

As part of the outreach programme, the team distributed essential agricultural tools and equipment among farmers to support their farming activities and improve productivity in the remote border region.

Addressing the gathering, the visiting dignitaries stressed the importance of empowering border farmers and strengthening the country's internal economy through sustainable agriculture, technological interventions, and continuous scientific support. They reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to ensuring that farmers living in remote and border areas receive equal access to agricultural innovations and extension services.

On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the SKUAST-K delegation also participated in a commemorative programme organised by the Indian Army in Keran. The Vice-Chancellor, Director ICAR-ATARI, Director Extension, scientists, and other officials paid rich tributes to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation during the Kargil War. Floral tributes were offered to honour the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs, while the gathering remembered their courage, patriotism, and dedication.

The delegation appreciated the invaluable role played by the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation's borders and acknowledged its continuous support towards the welfare and socio-economic development of border communities, particularly in facilitating agricultural and developmental initiatives.

Residents expressed gratitude to SKUAST-K for reaching the remote border village with scientific knowledge and practical support. They particularly appreciated the sustained efforts of KVK Kupwara, which, according to the locals, has been consistently working in the Keran region for nearly a decade by organising awareness programmes, training sessions, demonstrations, and farmer outreach activities for the overall development of the farming community.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from SKUAST-K and its extension wing to continue strengthening farmer-scientist linkages in border areas and to promote inclusive agricultural growth while honouring the spirit of national service and sacrifice symbolised by Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Handwara,Jul,27: A wave of grief swept through Bomdagar village in the Magam area of Handwara after a 12-year-old boy lost his life in a tragic drowning incident while bathing in a local pond on Monday.

The deceased has been identified as Aayan Tantary, son of Abdul Qayoom Tantary, a resident of Magam Bomdagar.

According to officials and eyewitnesses, the minor had gone to the pond to bathe when he accidentally slipped into deep water and drowned. Soon after the incident was reported, a massive rescue operation was launched involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Unit Kupwara, Handwara Police led by SDPO Handwara Faisal Rouf, Tehsildar Handwara Zeeshan Khan, personnel of Handwara and Kupwara Police, the Indian Army, and local volunteers.

Rescue teams carried out an intensive search operation for several hours before successfully retrieving the body from the pond. The body was shifted for completion of legal and medico-legal formalities and was later handed over to the bereaved family for the last rites.

The tragic incident has left the entire village in mourning, with hundreds of residents gathering to offer condolences to the family. Locals described Aayan as a cheerful and innocent child whose untimely demise has deeply shocked the community.

Meanwhile, former DDC Chairman Kupwara Irfan Sultan Pandithpori and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed expressed profound grief over the incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. Both prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear the irreparable loss.

The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with bathing in unattended ponds, rivers, and other water bodies, particularly during the prevailing heatwave. The district administration has repeatedly appealed to parents and the general public to discourage children from entering unsafe water bodies and to strictly adhere to safety advisories issued by the authorities.

As temperatures continue to soar across Kashmir, officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant and ensure proper supervision of children to prevent such heartbreaking tragedies in the future.

The Management of Affarwat-XI Sports Club Baramulla extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mushtaq Ahmad Rather (Mushi) on his appointment as Coach of the Deaf Cricket Association J&K for the Indian Deaf Cricket Association 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for the Deaf 2026, scheduled to be held in Gujarat.

This prestigious appointment is a testament to his dedication, coaching excellence, and outstanding contribution to the development of cricket in Jammu & Kashmir. His experience and commitment continue to inspire young cricketers across the region.

The entire Affarwat-XI family wishes Mushtaq Ahmad Rather every success in this national assignment and is confident that, under his guidance, the J&K Deaf Cricket team will make the region proud.

Congratulations and best wishes for a successful campaign in Gujarat!

Kupwara, July 25: Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening agricultural research, innovation and farmer-centric extension services, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) convened the 20th Annual Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara on Saturday.

The meeting was chaired by the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, who also serves as Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee. It witnessed the participation of senior university officials, scientists, district officers, and progressive farmers from across Kupwara district.

Among the prominent dignitaries present were Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, who attended as the Guest of Honour, and Director, ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana, Dr. Parvender Sheoran, whose visit to KVK Kupwara marked his first official interaction with the institution. Heads of various KVKs, officers from line departments, scientists from the Directorate of Extension, KVK Kupwara staff, and progressive farmers also attended the meeting.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Prof. G.M. Bhat, Head of KVK Kupwara, followed by a comprehensive presentation on the Action Taken Report, highlighting the centre's achievements during the past year, implementation of previous SAC recommendations, priority areas for intervention, and future strategies aimed at addressing emerging challenges in the agriculture and allied sectors.

An interactive session was held with representatives of various line departments and progressive farmers, who shared their experiences, challenges, and suggestions. The discussions focused on ensuring that field-level realities are effectively incorporated into future research, extension programmes, and policy planning for the district.

Recognising excellence in agriculture, several progressive farmers were felicitated with appreciation certificates by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie for their outstanding contributions towards the adoption of scientific farming practices and innovation. The initiative was aimed at encouraging farmers to continue serving as role models within the farming community.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth appreciated the efforts of KVK Kupwara in introducing improved crop varieties, expanding farmer outreach programmes, and promoting entrepreneurship among rural youth. She underlined the need for stronger collaboration between scientists, farmers, and government departments to ensure sustainable agricultural development.

In his keynote address, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie commended the dedication and performance of the KVK Kupwara team and urged the scientists to embrace innovation, strengthen technology transfer, and explore new opportunities to transform KVK Kupwara into one of the finest Krishi Vigyan Kendras not only in Jammu and Kashmir but across the country.

Dr. Parvender Sheoran, Director, ICAR-ATARI Ludhiana, appreciated the centre's extension activities and stressed the importance of accelerating technology dissemination, promoting location-specific agricultural innovations, and strengthening farmer-centric interventions to enhance the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Research and Extension System.

The meeting concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina, who expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, Director Extension, Director ICAR-ATARI, scientists, officers of line departments, progressive farmers, and KVK staff for their valuable participation. He also acknowledged the support extended by the District Administration Kupwara and appreciated the media fraternity for consistently highlighting agricultural initiatives, promoting scientific awareness, and bridging the gap between researchers and the farming community.

The successful conduct of the 20th Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to developing resilient, technology-driven and farmer-oriented agricultural systems, while strengthening collaboration among research institutions, extension agencies and farming communities for sustainable rural development.

Srinagar, July 26: Chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir General Category Welfare Forum (JKGCWF), Syed Shameem Ahmad, has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of the mother of Shakeel Ahmad Sofi and Gulzar Ahmad Sofi.

In a condolence message issued here, Syed Shameem Ahmad described the deceased as a pious, kind-hearted and motherly lady whose life was marked by simplicity, compassion and unwavering faith. He said he had enjoyed a long-standing personal relationship with the bereaved family and always regarded the departed soul as his own mother.

He said her demise was not only an irreparable loss to the Sofi family but also a deeply personal loss for him, adding that her affection, kindness and blessings would always remain cherished in his memories.

On behalf of the Jammu & Kashmir General Category Welfare Forum (JKGCWF) and in his personal capacity, Syed Shameem Ahmad conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and fortitude for them during this difficult time.

He prayed that Almighty Allah may forgive the departed soul's shortcomings, shower His infinite mercy upon her, grant her the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and bless the bereaved family with patience and courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un.

Srinagar, July 26: Lubaab Publications Group and the editorial team of Daily Headlines Today have expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Smt. Sundri Begum, a respected and devout woman from Kreeri, whose passing has left the Sofi family and the local community in mourning.

Sundri Begum was the beloved mother of Gulzar Ahmad Sofi and Shakeel Ahmad Sofi, and the sister of senior BJP leader G.M.Sofi.

In a condolence message, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Headlines Today and CEO of Lubaab Publications Group, Jahangir Bukhari, described the deceased as a pious, humble and motherly figure whose warmth, kindness and noble character earned her the love and respect of all who knew her.

"Her passing is an irreparable loss not only to her family but also to the community she touched through her compassion, simplicity and unwavering faith. She will always be remembered for her exemplary values and affectionate nature," Bukhari said.

On behalf of the management and staff of Lubaab Publications Group and Daily Headlines Today, Bukhari extended heartfelt condolences to her sons, Gulzar Ahmad Sofi and Shakeel Ahmad Sofi, as well as to senior BJP leader G.M. Sofi and all members of the bereaved family.

He prayed that Almighty Allah forgive the departed soul, grant her the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and bestow patience, courage and strength upon the bereaved family to bear this immense loss.

Baramulla,Jul,20: Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable horticulture and scientific farming, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organised an awareness programme on the scientific management of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner at the Community Hall, Watergam, in Baramulla district. Sponsored by SKUAST-K, the programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of apple growers, horticulture officials, scientists and research scholars.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad, Coordinator and Head of the Division of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-K, who attended as the chief guest. Among those present were Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahad, Dr. Uzma Arifie, HDO Shakir, scientists, research scholars and other employees of the Department of Horticulture.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad stressed that timely scientific intervention is essential to protect apple orchards from emerging pest challenges. He said that the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner has become a significant concern for apple growers, making awareness, early detection and scientific management indispensable for sustaining quality production and improving orchard profitability.

Experts from the Division of Entomology delivered detailed technical sessions on the identification, biology and economic significance of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner. They explained that integrated pest management (IPM) remains the most effective strategy for controlling the pest while safeguarding environmental and human health.

Prof Ishtiyaq Ahad educated orchardists on the use of pheromone traps for pest monitoring, the need for judicious and need-based application of recommended insecticides, proper spray scheduling and post-harvest orchard management practices. They emphasised that excessive and indiscriminate pesticide use not only increases production costs but also affects ecological balance and fruit quality.

A practical demonstration on the installation and use of pheromone traps was conducted, enabling farmers to gain hands-on knowledge of pest monitoring techniques. The interactive session allowed participants to seek expert guidance on pest-related issues affecting their orchards and receive scientific recommendations tailored to local conditions.

The participating farmers appreciated the initiative and described the programme as highly informative and beneficial. They urged FoA, SKUAST-K to organise similar awareness and capacity-building programmes regularly to keep growers updated on modern technologies, emerging pests and sustainable orchard management practices.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad and Dr Uzma Arifie thanked the farmers for their active participation and reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to extending scientific knowledge to farming communities through research-based outreach programmes. He assured growers that the university would continue to provide technical support and advisory services to help improve apple productivity and ensure sustainable horticultural development across Kashmir.

The awareness programme once again highlighted SKUAST-K's proactive role in bridging the gap between scientific research and farming communities, empowering orchardists with practical knowledge to effectively tackle pest challenges while promoting environmentally responsible and economically viable apple cultivation.

Handwara,Jul, 20: A peaceful protest over the prolonged drinking water crisis was held outside the Jal Shakti (PHE) Division Handwara on Monday after residents of Kral-Batapora, Langate, assembled to demand immediate restoration of potable water supply and improved public service delivery.

The protest gained momentum after Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Langate, Sheikh Khursheed, joined the demonstrators and expressed strong resentment over the alleged absence of senior officials from the division office during working hours.

The protesting residents alleged that they had repeatedly approached the Jal Shakti Department over the past several years regarding the acute shortage of drinking water but, despite repeated assurances, no practical solution had been implemented on the ground. They said the persistent water crisis has caused immense hardship to the local population.

Speaking to Headlines Today, MLA Sheikh Khursheed said a delegation of residents from Batpora Langate had approached him seeking intervention in the matter. He asked them to assemble at the Jal Shakti Division office so that the issue could be taken up directly with the concerned authorities.

"I reached the office at around 10:50 am and waited for nearly ten minutes. However, I found that only one Junior Engineer (JE) out of eight had reported for duty, while the Executive Engineer (Exn) and all Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs) were absent," the MLA said.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the alleged absenteeism of officials, the MLA locked the main gate of the division office, describing the situation as unacceptable.

"People, particularly those from my constituency, are suffering due to an acute shortage of drinking water, but the officers responsible for addressing their grievances are not even punctual in attending their duties. How can the public expect efficient service when officials themselves fail to remain accountable?" he remarked.

The legislator said government offices exist to serve the people and stressed that absenteeism and lack of accountability would not be tolerated. He urged the Jal Shakti Department to ensure the regular presence of officials in offices and take immediate measures to restore drinking water supply to the affected areas.

The protest continued peacefully until around 2:00 pm, when Tehsildar Handwara Zeeshan Khan and officials of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department met the protesters and assured them that their grievances would be addressed on priority.

Following the assurance, the demonstrators dispersed peacefully. MLA Sheikh Khursheed thanked the residents for maintaining peace and expressed hope that the department would fulfill its commitments without further delay.

In a significant development later in the day, the Office of the Assistant Executive Engineer, Jal Shakti (PHE), Sub Division Handwara, issued an order for the immediate adjustment of field staff to improve the functioning of the water supply system.

Under the order, nine field staff members were transferred and reassigned to different water supply schemes and operational areas in the interest of government work. Officials said the reshuffle was aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening field-level management, and ensuring an uninterrupted supply of drinking water to the affected areas.

The developments have raised expectations among residents that long-pending issues related to drinking water supply in Kral-Batapora and other parts of Langate will now receive timely attention from the department.

KREERI, July 19: In a remarkable celebration of Kashmir's literary heritage and the eternal ideals of Imam Hussain (AS), the Kruhen Cultural Forum, in collaboration with Jahanayia Polyclinic, Kreeri Muradabad, organized a grand Hussaini Mehfil-e-Mushaira on Saturday, attracting eminent poets, scholars, intellectuals and literature enthusiasts from different parts of the Kashmir Valley.

The event served as a tribute to the unparalleled sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and highlighted the enduring relevance of his message of truth, justice, courage, sacrifice and resistance against tyranny. The literary gathering reflected the deep cultural and spiritual bond between Kashmir's poetic traditions and the timeless values of Karbala.

The programme commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a scholarly presentation on the life, teachings and everlasting message of Imam Hussain (AS) by noted scholar Manzoor Ahmad Hajam. His address underscored the universal significance of the Karbala movement and its continuing inspiration for humanity in the pursuit of justice and righteousness.

The prestigious Mushaira was presided over by renowned poet Syed Sad-ud-Din Saidi, while distinguished poet Noor-ud-Din Hosh and Shabnum Tilgami, General Secretary of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, graced the presidium as guests of honour. The dignitaries praised the Kruhen Cultural Forum for its unwavering commitment to nurturing literary activities and preserving the rich cultural and intellectual traditions of Kashmir.

The proceedings of the Mushaira were conducted by the Forum's General Secretary, Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri, who skillfully anchored the event, introducing the participating poets and maintaining the literary spirit of the evening.

Delivering the keynote address, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, President of the Kruhen Cultural Forum, said that the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire humanity across generations by promoting the values of truth, justice, compassion, moral courage and human dignity. He observed that Hussaini Mushairas are not merely literary gatherings but important social and cultural platforms that educate society about the ideals of Karbala while strengthening communal harmony, ethical values and respect for humanity.

He further emphasized that literature has always played a significant role in shaping societies and preserving civilizational values. Such literary events, he said, encourage young writers and poets to remain connected with their cultural roots while promoting the message of peace, tolerance and brotherhood.

The Mushaira witnessed the participation of poets from various districts of Kashmir, who presented moving poetic tributes in honour of Imam Hussain (AS). Their verses eloquently portrayed the supreme sacrifice of Karbala and celebrated the enduring ideals of faith, steadfastness and resistance against oppression. The audience responded with great admiration, frequently applauding the powerful recitations that created an atmosphere of reverence, devotion and literary excellence.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the organizers, who expressed gratitude to all the poets, scholars, distinguished guests and members of the public for their enthusiastic participation and support. They reiterated the Kruhen Cultural Forum's resolve to continue organizing literary and cultural programmes that promote the rich intellectual, poetic and cultural legacy of Kashmir while keeping alive the universal message of Imam Hussain (AS).

Issued by:

Jahangir Bukhari

Media Secretary

Kruhen Cultural Forum, Kreeri

Handwara,Jul,19: In a continued effort to eradicate drug abuse and curb the illegal cultivation of narcotic plants, Handwara Police carried out a wild cannabis (bung) destruction drive in the Pharoupeth area under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan.

The operation was conducted on the directions of SSP Handwara, Sahil Sarangal (IPS), as part of the district police's sustained campaign against narcotics. A police team from Police Post Chogal undertook the drive across different villages of the Pharou area and destroyed large quantities of wild cannabis plants growing over a considerable stretch of land.

The initiative aims to prevent the misuse of naturally grown cannabis for the production and trafficking of narcotic substances while reinforcing the district police's commitment to creating a drug-free society. Police officials said such drives are being conducted regularly to identify and eliminate wild cannabis growth in vulnerable areas, thereby reducing the chances of its illegal exploitation.

The destruction drive also reflects the broader objectives of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan, which focuses on prevention, awareness, enforcement, and community participation in combating the menace of drug abuse.

SSP Handwara, Sahil Sarangal (IPS), reiterated that Handwara Police is committed to taking stringent action against all forms of drug-related activities. He appealed to the public to actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting illegal cultivation of narcotic plants, drug peddling, or any suspicious activities in their localities. He emphasized that community support is essential to making the anti-drug campaign more effective and ensuring a safer, healthier future for the younger generation.

Handwara Police has been consistently intensifying its anti-narcotics operations through awareness programmes, enforcement drives, and community outreach initiatives, reaffirming its resolve to make the police district free from the menace of drugs.

SSP Handwara, Sahil Sarangal (IPS), reiterated that Handwara Police is committed to taking stringent action against all forms of drug-related activities. He appealed to the public to actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting illegal cultivation of narcotic plants, drug peddling, or any suspicious activities in their localities. He emphasized that community support is essential to making the anti-drug campaign more effective and ensuring a safer, healthier future for the younger generation.

Handwara Police has been consistently intensifying its anti-narcotics operations through awareness programmes, enforcement drives, and community outreach initiatives, reaffirming its resolve to make the police district free from the menace of drugs.

Kupwara,Jul,18: In a sustained effort to curb illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minor minerals, the Geology and Mining Department, Kupwara, has intensified its enforcement drive across the district. As part of the campaign, the District Mineral Officer (DMO), accompanied by field officials, conducted an extensive inspection tour on July 16, covering Bohipora, Khumreyal (Lolab), Thayan, Kalarooch and Machil.

During the inspection at Bohipora, officials intercepted two tippers transporting minor minerals without valid e-challans. The vehicles were penalized on the spot through the Point of Sale (POS) system, resulting in the recovery of ₹39,078 as compounding charges, royalty and other applicable dues.

At Izgund in Khumreyal, the inspection team seized a tractor allegedly involved in illegal mining activities. A formal seizure memo was issued, and further legal action has been initiated under the relevant provisions of the mining laws.

The enforcement drive continued at Sarkuli in Kalarooch, where another tipper carrying minor minerals without a valid e-challan was intercepted. The department imposed a penalty of ₹19,539 along with other applicable charges.

Later in the evening, at around 8:30 PM, the Geology and Mining Department, in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, carried out a joint checking operation at Bridge Kawari in Handwara. During the operation, two sand-laden tippers were found transporting material using underweight e-challans. Officials recovered ₹6,360 towards royalty and other applicable charges.

In total, the department recovered ₹64,977 during the day-long enforcement drive. The recovered amount has been deposited into DMO Account No. 0141, officials confirmed.

The District Mineral Officer reiterated the department's commitment to protecting natural resources and ensuring strict compliance with mining regulations.

Officials warned that illegal extraction and unauthorized transportation of minor minerals would not be tolerated and that surprise inspections and enforcement drives would continue across vulnerable areas of Kupwara district.

The ongoing crackdown reflects the department's resolve to promote lawful mining practices, safeguard environmental resources and prevent revenue losses to the government through strict monitoring and enforcement measures.

Handwara, July 15: The timely replacement of the National Flag atop the historic 108-foot flag mast at Langate Public Park by the Indian Army, in coordination with the Municipal Committee Langate, has once again highlighted the changing social and public narrative in North Kashmir. The newly installed 20×30-foot Tiranga was hoisted with the assistance of Army personnel and civil administration staff, an event that drew appreciation from local residents, youth and visitors.

For many people, the flag replacement ceremony has become more than a routine maintenance activity. It is now viewed as a symbolic event reflecting peace, stability and the spirit of national unity. Residents say they eagerly await the replacement of the flag twice every year before the Independence & Republic Day, treating it as an occasion that reinforces the park's significance in the area.

The history of this public park is closely linked with the political and security developments witnessed in Kashmir over several decades. Historical accounts record that in May 1976, Maqbool Bhat returned to Jammu and Kashmir and, along with his associates, attempted to rob a cooperative bank near the present-day public park in Langate. During the incident, a bank official was shot dead. Following the robbery attempt, local residents reportedly helped surround the area, leading to Bhat's arrest by the police.

In subsequent years, the nearby location came to be popularly referred to by the name "Maqbool Park" by separatist circles. However, with changing public attitudes and the evolving socio-political environment in Jammu and Kashmir, the place gradually came to be officially and popularly known simply as Langate Public Park, reflecting its identity as a public recreational space rather than one associated with political symbolism.

Many residents believe that the years of militancy, shutdowns, strikes and stone-pelting severely affected the region's economy, education, trade and development. They note that in recent years, particularly after 2019, the atmosphere has witnessed significant changes, with improved public participation in civic activities and increasing emphasis on peace, education and development.

The journey of the Langate Public Park entered a new chapter on 14 October 2022, when a 108-foot-high National Flag was dedicated to the people of Langate by the then Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, P. K. Pole, in the presence of senior officers from the civil administration, police, the Indian Army and local citizens. The installation formed part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign under the Government of India's Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative and was executed jointly by the Civil Administration, the Indian Army, the Flag Foundation of India and local residents.

Since then, the towering Tiranga has become one of the prominent landmarks of Langate. Residents often describe it as a symbol of unity and peace, while visitors regard it as one of the most recognizable public spaces in the area.

The latest replacement of the National Flag has once again demonstrated the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Municipal Committee Langate, civil administration and local community in maintaining this important landmark. The ceremony was widely appreciated by local youth and members of the public, many of whom described the event as a reflection of the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the area.

Today, the historic Langate Public Park stands not only as a recreational destination but also as a reminder of Kashmir's journey through difficult decades toward an era where peace, civic participation and development increasingly shape public life. The towering Tiranga overlooking the park continues to symbolize that evolving journey for the people of Langate and the wider Kupwara district.