Srinagar, Feb 13 : The breathtaking slopes of Gulmarg came alive as foreign skiers from the United States, England, Australia, New Zealand, France, Japan, Hong Kong, Russia and Nepal participated in the first-of-its-kind Himalayan Freeride Event, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council.

According to the reports the event was meticulously planned to provide participants with an unparalleled skiing experience on Gulmarg’s world-class slopes, renowned for their pristine powder snow and challenging alpine terrain. Skiers from different nationalities explored the diverse landscape, showcasing their expertise while embracing the unique adventure and challenges that make Gulmarg a premier winter sports destination.

In the male category, Sam (Australia), Roro (France), and François Mortier (United States) secured the first, second, and third positions, respectively. In the female category, Virginia Michele Winstone (New Zealand), Laura (United States), and Melanie Anderson (Hong Kong) claimed the top three spots.

A key highlight of the event was an interactive session with international athletes and experts, where valuable insights were shared on Gulmarg’s growing stature as a global winter sports hub. Discussions focused on infrastructure development, safety protocols, environmental sustainability, and strategies to attract more professional athletes and skiing enthusiasts to the region.

Foreign athletes were particularly captivated by Gulmarg’s unmatched skiing experience. Rebecca, an American skier, remarked, “The powder snow here, combined with the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, is unmatched. Nowhere else in the world offers such a unique and exhilarating experience.”

Beyond the world-class skiing, international participants were deeply touched by the warm hospitality of the local people. Many athletes praised the friendliness and generosity of the local community, expressing gratitude for the way they were welcomed and hosted. “The people of Gulmarg have been incredibly kind and hospitable. Their warmth made this experience even more special,” said Vermeil Sebastian, a skier from France.

Many participants also thanked the J&K Government for organizing such a prestigious event. They pledged to act as ambassadors for Gulmarg upon returning to their home countries, hoping that next year’s Himalayan Freeride Event would witness even greater international participation.

Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez, speaking at the felicitation ceremony, expressed pride in hearing foreign athletes speak so highly of Gulmarg. He congratulated the winners and emphasized that this event marks the first step toward hosting major international winter sports competitions in the region. He reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming Gulmarg into a world-class winter sports destination.

Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, extended her gratitude to all international participants who traveled from across the globe for the event.

She highlighted Gulmarg’s unique slopes as a top-tier winter sports attraction and noted that the presence of professional athletes from different countries would significantly boost Gulmarg’s global reputation.

She also thanked the J&K Government for its unwavering support in strengthening the sports ecosystem in the region.

With the overwhelming success of the inaugural Himalayan Freeride Event and glowing endorsements from international skiers, Gulmarg is set to establish itself as a premier destination for winter sports on the global map. (ANB)

Srinagar, Jan 08 : With the advent of New Criminal Laws, aimed at promoting social responsibility, police in Srinagar after reporting a case in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Srinagar has sentenced an individual caught for public drunkenness to Community Service.

According to the reports, the accused namely Mohd Shafi Najar resident of Srinagar was found intoxicated and causing public nuisance in violation of section 355 BNS. After reviewing the case, the Court ruled that rather than imposing a traditional penalty, the offender must perform three-days Community Service of cleanliness and hygiene at public buildings/areas/spaces at Bhagat Barzulla and report to Mohallah president and SHO concerned for compliance, who shall report the same to the court.

New Criminal Laws emphasize that such alternative punishments serve as a rehabilitative measure rather than mere punishment, aiming to reform behaviour and instil social accountability. This decision sets a positive precedent in handling minor offenses through corrective measures rather than punitive measures. (ANB)

Srinagar, Feb 4: The Handicrafts and Handloom Department of Kashmir has intensified its crackdown on the sale of counterfeit carpets amid growing concerns over machine-made products being misrepresented as authentic Kashmiri hand-knotted carpets.

In a fresh enforcement drive, several unlabelled or misrepresented carpets—primarily Turkish and Iranian machine-made varieties—were seized from wholesale dealers in Srinagar. Officials warned violators to strictly comply with quality control norms and labelling requirements.

A department spokesperson stated that the action follows reports of deceptive trade practices, where non-local, machine-made carpets were being falsely marketed as genuine Kashmiri handicrafts. Inspections will continue to prevent such malpractices and protect the reputation of Kashmiri artisans.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to transparency in the handicraft sector and have urged all stakeholders to adhere to industry regulations. Strict action will be taken against those found violating fair trade practices, ensuring that the rich legacy of Kashmiri handmade carpets remains untarnished. [KNT]

Srinagar, Feb 03: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday said the Delhi-Srinagar train service is ready, with passengers required to change trains on the route. While allocating 844 crore budget to Jammu and Kashmir railways.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressing the press conference said that the railway line from Srinagar to Delhi is ready while special trains have been designed that will run on the track.

He said that the temperature outside Kashmir remains high in summers while it drops below zero in winters in Kashmir, but trains have been well-designed to run in both conditions.

He said that the railway station in Jammu is being expanded, and very soon, trains will chug from Delhi to Srinagar.

On direct train from Delhi to Srinagar Ashwini said, "Tickets will be the same, passengers only have to change the train on route."

He said that the survey for other railway lines, like the rail from Srinagar to Ladakh and Srinagar to Kupwara, has been completed, and very soon work is expected to start on them.

While Ashwini added that around ₹844 crores were allocated for Jammu and Kashmir railways for the year 2025-26.

He said that ₹844 crores were allocated for railways in Jammu and Kashmir while it will get more funds for projects that are under consideration by the government.

Notably, the railway line from Delhi-Baramulla is complete, with officials expecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the project soon.

The completion of this rail link is anticipated to significantly boost tourism and trade in the region, providing an all-weather and cost-effective transportation system that will spur development in Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)

Srinagar, Jan 30 : A large pothole on the footpath near Kashmir University has become a major hazard for pedestrians, making walking in the area increasingly difficult. 

The situation is worsened by the presence of stray dogs, particularly at night, adding to the risk for commuters. 

 Despite being left unattended for over a month, no action has been taken to address the issue, raising serious safety concerns. 

 Locals fear that if neglected further, the pothole could lead to accidents with potentially fatal consequences. 

They urged authorities to take swift action, questioning whether such negligence aligns with the vision of a 'Smart City.' [KNT]

HT NEWS DESK 

Boniyar, January 22: A 60-year-old male patient, a smoker, arrived to PHC Boniyar at approximately 11:45 AM with complaints of acute retrosternal chest pain. Understanding the severity of the situation, the on-duty doctor immediately shifted the patient to the emergency room, where a series of investigations, including ECG and TROP-T, were carried out as per protocol.The ECG findings indicated Inferior Wall Myocardial Infarction (IWMI) accompanied by Complete Heart Block (CHB), although the TROP-T test results were negative. Acting swiftly and decisively, the highly skilled Team Boniyar, led by Dr. Syed Raza Murad under the direct supervision of BMO Boniyar, Dr. Ruqaya Shokat, administered thrombolysis using Tenecteplase, a life-saving medication valued at over ₹40,000, provided entirely free of cost.This timely intervention successfully stabilized the patient. He was later referred to SKIMS Srinagar for advanced management via a free 108 ambulance service, ensuring his transfer was both safe  and smooth. At SKIMS, the team’s efforts were widely appreciated.    
      The patient, now in stable condition, is under the care of cardiologists in cardiology department SKIMS Srinagar , who have planned further management, including PCI with CAG
BMO Boniyar, Dr. Ruqaya Shokat, praised the dedication and efficiency of Team Boniyar, stating, “The commitment of our staff to saving lives at the PHC level is commendable. Such efforts are a testament to the quality of care we aim to deliver, even in remote and challenging conditions.” She also thanked to the patient and their family for trusting PHC Boniyar’s services.In view of the harsh winter in Kashmir, particularly in hilly areas, Dr. Ruqaya Shokat advised elderly individuals with comorbidities to take extra precautions, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and prioritize their health and safety.
PHC Boniyar continues to set a high standard for healthcare delivery in remote regions, ensuring that every patient receives timely, high-quality, and compassionate care.
BMO Boniyar , extended heartfelt gratitude to the Director Health Services Kashmir and the Chief Medical Officer Baramulla for their positive  support in providing Injection Tenecteplase at the PHC level.
She remarked, “The availability of this life-saving drug has allowed us to save precious lives time and again. Their trust in Team Boniyar and their consistent appreciation motivate us to deliver our best in serving the community.

HT NEWS DESK

Dr. Tasaduk Hussain Itoo has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for his exceptional contributions to healthcare, medical education, and public health awareness in Jammu & Kashmir and beyond. Through effective initiatives and comprehensive research efforts, Dr. Itoo leads critical healthcare improvements while advancing educational development across multiple domains. His extensive academic achievements, including specialized training from prestigious institutions worldwide and affiliations at leading organizations such as the American College of Physicians, the International Diabetes Federation, and the European Society of Endocrinology, demonstrate his commitment to excellence.

Patient-Centered Healthcare Innovation

Medical excellence manifests through Dr. Itoo's comprehensive patient guidance and education initiative, which provides targeted screening, prevention, and treatment support while maintaining accessibility for underserved populations. Strategic implementation of free online consultations has revolutionized healthcare delivery throughout South Kashmir, breaking down traditional barriers to medical access while establishing new standards for patient care. Local communities now benefit from specialized diabetes education programs that address critical health challenges through personalized support systems and evidence-based information delivery.

Healthcare practitioners across the region have begun adopting Dr. Itoo's successful models, emphasizing practical solutions alongside clinical excellence to maximize patient outcomes. Measurable improvements in community health indicators demonstrate the effectiveness of his methodical approach to healthcare delivery, which prioritizes immediate care needs and long-term health maintenance. Regional medical facilities have documented significant positive changes in patient engagement and treatment compliance after implementing programs based on his innovative frameworks.

Research and Academic Leadership

Professional recognition stems from Dr. Itoo's substantial body of published work, which includes hundreds of articles in leading newspapers, journals, and magazines that showcase deep medical expertise while advancing public health knowledge. Rigorous academic standards characterize his approach to medical writing and research, resulting in publications that combine technical accuracy with an accessible presentation for professional and general audiences. Medical communication has evolved significantly under his guidance through carefully structured programs designed to develop new generations of healthcare communicators.

Knowledge dissemination represents a core focus of Dr. Itoo's professional mission, demonstrated through his writer's guidance program, cultivating emerging talent in medical communication while maintaining high scientific standards. Strategic partnerships with academic institutions have expanded the reach of his educational initiatives, creating sustainable channels for medical knowledge transfer across multiple platforms and audiences. Professional development programs designed under his leadership continue to shape medical communication practices throughout the region.

Final Words

Professional excellence characterizes every aspect of Dr. Itoo's contributions to healthcare, from innovative clinical practices to ground-breaking educational initiatives that set new standards for medical practice. Meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery and medical education demonstrate the lasting value of his comprehensive approach to healthcare transformation, which emphasizes practical implementation alongside theoretical advancement. Recognition through this award acknowledges his exceptional ability to create positive change while maintaining the highest professional standards.

Leadership qualities displayed throughout Dr. Itoo's career exemplify the standards the Global Recognition Awards celebrated, particularly his ability to implement effective solutions while inspiring others toward excellence. Medical professionals throughout the region continue to build upon his foundational work, extending the impact of his innovations far beyond their original scope. 

SRINAGAR: In a significant development, renowned face of Minority employees in Jammu and Kashmir and ace writer Jugmeet Kaur Bali and President All Jammu and Kashmir Minority employees association was awarded by world known organization Gandhi Global Family headed by Padma Shri SP Verma. She was awarded prestigious Sewa Puraskar.

The award consisted of Shawl and Momento symbolising peace and harmony.

She has worked continuously on championing the rights and issues of Minority employees and Minority community of Jammu and Kashmir. 

Her role in promoting Global peace and harmony is well known. 

People from diverse walks of life expressed their opinions on peace and harmony. 

They lauded Jagmeet Kaur Bali for her visionary role in the upliftment and betterment of society.

The World University of Design (WUD) has once again pushed the boundaries of creativity with the presentation of INTERFACES, an Indo-European exhibition in association with Alliance Française. This unique exhibition celebrates the transformative power of printmaking and brings together renowned artists from India, France, and Belgium. The exhibition is currently on display at Alliance Française de Delhi until July 3rd, 2023.

INTERFACES, a HolzIndia presentation, showcases a diverse range of artworks that highlight the evolution of printmaking in the contemporary art scene. The exhibition features the works of Indian artists such as Ananda Moy Banerji, Anita Das Chakracorty, Dattatraya Apte, Hemavathy Guha, Kanchan Chandar, Moti Zharotia, Prof. Rajan Shripad Fulari, Seema Kohli, Sushanta Guha, Dr. Sushma Yadav, and Prof. V. Nagdas. The exhibition also includes the works of French artist Olivier Deprez and Belgian visual artist Roby Comblain.

To further explore the significance of printmaking in the visual arts, WUD organized a thought-provoking "Panel Discussion on Printmaking – Transformation in New India." The panel discussion featured esteemed artists and printmakers, including Ananda Moy Banerji, Kanchan Chander, Prayag Shukla, Prachi Sahasrabudhe, Seema Kohli, and Prof. Rajan Fulari from WUD. This diverse group of panelists shared their experiences and insights into the evolving landscape of printmaking in India.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Mr. Stephane Alamir, Director of Alliance Française de Delhi, who commended the collaborative effort and the artistic exchange between India and Europe. He emphasized the importance of such platforms in fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.

Prof. Ranjan Shripad Fulari, Dean of the School of Visual Arts at World University of Design, expressed his excitement about the exhibition, stating, "We are honored to put together a platform that touches upon the Printmaking aspect that has evolved over the years and has now rejuvenated into a form that is changing dynamics and dimensions of the Visual Arts scene in India. I am glad to have with me such eminent panelists who have had enriching experiences in India and abroad. There is so much to learn from here!"

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of World University of Design, also shared his views on the collaboration, saying, "This is a prestigious platform for connoisseurs of art and visual arts to align with. It is a pleasure to be here amongst such significant people who have marked their niche in their domain of the creative field. I thank Alliance Française for joining hands with us in this great merger of thoughts across geographies."

INTERFACES not only showcases the artistic excellence of printmakers but also highlights the World University of Design's commitment to breaking traditional educational patterns and providing an academic-oriented approach to design education. With its dedication to fostering creativity and innovation, WUD continues to play a vital role in shaping the design education landscape in India.

Alliance Française de Delhi's Gallery Romain Rolland, known for its focus on contemporary art and cultural events, has once again provided a platform for artistic and cultural exchanges between India and France. By hosting INTERFACES, the gallery strengthens cross-cultural understanding and appreciation in the artistic community.

For more information about the World University of Design, please visit their official website at https://worlduniversityofdesign.ac.in/.

About World University of Design:
World University of Design (WUD) is India's first university dedicated to educating students in the creative domain. Located in Sonipat, Haryana, WUD offers substantiated degrees under the UGC Act and is at the forefront of revolutionizing the education system by providing academic-oriented design education.

About Alliance Française:
Alliance Française de Delhi is a renowned cultural center that promotes artistic and cultural exchanges between India and France. With a focus on contemporary art and cultural events, the gallery showcases the works of emerging and established artists, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Srinagar, Jan 31 : Journalist Nidhi Razdan on Tuesday announced that she has resigned from NDTV. Her resignation comes three days after her colleague Sreenivasan Jain announced his exit from the news channel

After more than 22 years, it is time to move on from NDTV,” she wrote in a tweet. “It has been a wonderful, roller coaster ride but you have to know when to get off. The next couple of weeks are my last. Thank you for the love and support all these years.”

In the latest in a series of resignations at the company after it was taken over by the Adani group. Razdan had worked at NDTV 24×7 for over two decades and in a tweet said that her journey with the channel has been a “roller coaster ride but you have to know when to get off”.

She had briefly left the channel in 2021, and returned in February 2022 to anchor the primetime show ‘No Spin’.

Earlier on January 28, Sreenivasan Jain announced his resignation from NDTV. He has been associated with the news channel since 1995.

Journalist Ravish Kumar and NDTV Group president Suparna Singh are among others who quit. NDTV founders Prannoy Roy and Radhika Roy also left the company’s board in December 2022.

Reports said that there is some disquiet within the channel at the manner in which the recent Hindenberg-Adani story has been covered. The news desk was told to keep off the story for the first three days until it became impossible not to take note of the hammering that Adani group shares were receiving at the stock market. Even then, NDTV’s new editorial management ensured that none of the channel’s popular primetime programmes chose the Hindenburg-Adani issue as a debate topic.

On December 30, the Adani group said it has acquired a 27.26% equity stake in NDTV from the Roys, founders of the news broadcaster. A week before that, the NDTV board also appointed two nominee directors of the richest Asian Gautam Adani-run conglomerate on the board – Sanjay Pugalia and Senthil Sinniah Chengalvarayan.

Adani Group acquired a 29.18% stake in NDTV by buying a company backed by the television network’s founders, Radhika Roy and Prannoy Roy. Thereafter, it made an open offer to acquire an additional 26% from public shareholders.

That open offer found investors willing to sell over 53 lakh shares of NDTV despite the deep discount on the stock’s trading price. The stock tendered translated to an 8.26% shareholding, taking the total interest of Adani Group in NDTV to 37.44% – higher than the 32.26% holding of founders.