Srinagar, May 20: The Kashmir Printers Association on Tuesday said that newspaper printing charges may have to be increased as the local printing industry continues to face mounting financial pressure due to rising costs of raw materials and disruptions in supply chains triggered by global geopolitical tensions.

The announcement came during an important meeting of the Association chaired by its president, Bilal Qureshi, which was attended by printing press owners and members from across the Valley. The meeting focused on the growing challenges confronting the newspaper printing and publishing sector.

Participants expressed serious concern over the sharp increase in the prices of paper, printing plates, ink and other essential materials required for newspaper production. They said that supply chains have been severely affected in recent months, leading to shortages and escalating operational costs for printing presses.

The Association said that increasing expenses related to electricity, transportation and raw materials have made newspaper printing significantly more expensive, placing the industry under severe financial strain.

Addressing the meeting, Bilal Qureshi said the impact of ongoing global tensions is being directly felt by the local printing sector. He stated that the unprecedented rise in the cost of printing materials has left printing presses with no alternative but to revise newspaper printing charges.

The Association warned that if the present situation continues, many small and medium-sized printing establishments may struggle to continue operations.

During the meeting, members unanimously appealed to newspaper owners across the Valley to cooperate with printing presses during the difficult period to protect the interests of both the newspaper industry and the printing sector.

The participants also expressed hope that the current crisis could be managed through collective efforts and coordinated planning. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue working jointly to address the challenges facing the printing industry in Kashmir.

Kupwara, May 13: In a powerful show of unity against drug abuse and narco-terrorism, a massive and historic Pad Yatra was organized in north Kashmir’s Kupwara under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

 The awareness march witnessed enthusiastic participation from thousands of people, including students, civil society members, transporters, traders, social activists, government employees, elected representatives, police and civil officers, and officials from across the district.

The Pad Yatra was led by Manoj Sinha from Government Boys Higher Secondary School Kupwara to Main Chowk Kupwara, sending a strong message against the growing menace of drug abuse and drug trafficking in society.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described drugs and terrorism as “two sides of the same coin” and reiterated the administration’s commitment to uprooting the drug network operating in the Union Territory.

“We will cut all oxygen lines of this plant. In the coming days, there will be fast and strong action against drug peddlers in Kupwara district,” the Lieutenant Governor asserted while emphasizing that narco-terror networks were directly responsible for fueling violence and instability in Jammu and Kashmir.

Challenging critics of the Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan, Sinha said that if even a single innocent person was unfairly targeted during anti-drug operations, action would be taken immediately. However, he questioned those attempting to shield drug smugglers and said society must decide whether such elements should face strict consequences or not.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir are clear and firm in their resolve. They want stringent action against drug smugglers, and when people unite, no force can stop us,” he said.

Referring to his interaction with women from Dardpora village, the Lieutenant Governor said they had shared painful experiences of how drug smuggling financed weapons used against innocent families.

“That is why I say loud and clear that drug traffickers and terrorists are inseparable partners in crime,” he remarked.

Highlighting the administration’s intensified crackdown on narcotics networks, Sinha revealed that properties worth crores had been seized, illegal assets confiscated, and passports of 15 smugglers recommended for cancellation. He added that more than 730 smugglers and peddlers had been arrested as part of the ongoing anti-drug drive.

The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of channeling youth toward education, sports, and positive social activities to build a healthy and drug-free society. On the occasion, he unveiled trophies for the Kupwara Forest League organized by the Forest Department and the Volleyball Championship under the Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan by the Youth Services and Sports Department.

He also felicitated winners of the reel-making competition organized to spread awareness against drug abuse among the youth.

During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the government’s commitment toward the development of frontier villages in Kupwara district. Referring to his visit to Trehgam village, he said several developmental projects were inaugurated and foundation stones laid to improve infrastructure and living conditions in border areas.

“Every village deserves all-weather roads, modern schools, and abundant opportunities for the youth. Our vision is to transform Kupwara’s border villages into model villages,” he said.

The Yatra concluded with a strong pledge from participants to continue supporting the mission of a “Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir” and work collectively for a safer and healthier society.

Kreeri, May 9: In a landmark moment for the media community, former Law Minister Syed Basharat Bukhari along with MLA Wagoora- Kreeri Irfan Lone led the inauguration of the Press Club Kreeri at the Andrabi Complex, marking a new chapter for journalists in the Kreeri-Wagoora region.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Media Association Kreeri, brings together journalists under a unified platform aimed at addressing professional challenges, fostering coordination, and reinforcing the principles of ethical journalism. The newly established press club is expected to serve as a vital institution for amplifying public concerns and promoting responsible reporting.

Among those present on the occasion were MLA Kreeri-Wagoora Irfan Hafeez Lone, the Station House Officer Kreeri, the President of the Traders Federation Kreeri, the Block Medical Officer Kreeri, and several other prominent officials, all of whom lauded the initiative and extended their full support.

Addressing the gathering, the Station House Officer emphasised the indispensable role of journalism in society, describing it as the backbone of democracy and a key pillar in ensuring transparency and accountability. He called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of integrity while serving the public.

In a notable gesture of encouragement, the President of the Traders Federation Kreeri announced an immediate financial contribution of 11,000 rupees for the maintenance of the press club and assured continued support in the future.

President of the Baramulla Working Journalists Association, Zargar Gulzar, praised the collective effort and stressed the importance of unity among journalists, while General Secretary Omer Rashid reaffirmed full cooperation with the newly formed body.

The Media Association Kreeri, in its concluding remarks, reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests of journalists and maintaining professional excellence. It expressed confidence that the press club would emerge as a strong platform for addressing community issues and advancing the cause of fair and ethical journalism in the region.

Jammu, April 16: Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a review meeting to assess progress under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investments (SASCI) scheme and to finalise the Annual Action Plan for FY 2026–27 under UT Capex (Community Development).

The meeting was attended by Director Rural Development Kashmir, Shabir Hussain Bhat; Director Rural Development Jammu, Shahnaz Akhter; Director Finance, Umar Khan; Joint Director Planning, Kamal Kumar Sharma; besides senior officers of the R&B and RD&PR departments.

Reviewing the status of SASCI projects, the Secretary was informed that construction of residential accommodation for PRI members and protected persons at Bijbehara (Anantnag) is underway in Kashmir division. In Jammu division, key projects under execution include two-BHK residential complexes for DDC/PRI members at Udhampur, Reasi, Kathua and Samba; a District Development Council building at Reasi; drainage upgradation works in Mendhar; and construction of BDO office complexes, community halls, guest houses and drainage nallahs in Jammu district.

The Secretary directed both Directors to ensure that UT Capex and District Capex plans are uploaded on the designated portal by April 21, as per timelines fixed by the Chief Secretary. He stressed that proposals must prioritise high-impact, durable infrastructure assets aimed at improving the quality of life in rural areas.

He further instructed that construction of Block Development Officer (BDO) offices be proposed in all blocks where such facilities are not available, to enhance access to administrative and developmental services.

The meeting also reviewed progress under the Viksit Village Scheme, which provides for an allocation of ₹2 crore per Assembly constituency. Under the scheme, one village in each constituency will be developed as a Model Village with creation of key infrastructural, social and economic assets including DEWATS, Plastic Waste Management Units, village museums, entrance arches, selfie points, chaupals, digital labs, public libraries and multipurpose facility centres.

The Secretary directed officers to expedite preparation of DPRs and estimates to ensure timely implementation of the scheme.

KREERI, BARAMULLA, April 8: Residents of Kreeri and its adjoining areas in north Kashmir have expressed strong resentment over the incomplete construction of the Ziyarat road, accusing the Rural Development Department of neglecting a vital public project and leaving locals to suffer.
        The road, which stretches from Kreeri Market to the revered shrine of Syed Haji Mohammad Murad Bukhari (RA), serves as a crucial link for more than 20 villages, connecting Kreeri to Babareshi and Tangmarg via areas such as Suchipora, Dolipora, Kawachak Sheikhpora, Khaipora Kakothal, Nambalnar and others. Locals say the road is currently in a dilapidated condition, riddled with potholes and posing serious risks to commuters.
Residents alleged that despite repeated appeals, the department has failed to address the worsening condition. “The authorities seem to be in deep slumber. The road is in a shabby state, and vehicles are getting damaged regularly. Children and elderly people are finding it difficult even to walk,” they said.
They said the road had earlier suffered from severe waterlogging due to poor drainage. Following persistent demands, funds were eventually sanctioned and construction work, including the laying of drainage pipes, was initiated. However, the work was abruptly halted just before the holy month of Ramadan and has not resumed since.
As a result, the situation has deteriorated further, with water accumulating on the road, soil subsiding at multiple locations, and the entire stretch turning muddy and unsafe for both pedestrians and vehicles. Residents said the incomplete work has created serious inconvenience, particularly for patients, school-going children and emergency services.
The issue has gained urgency with the approaching Urs of Syed Haji Murad Bukhari (RA), an annual religious event that draws a large number of devotees from across the region. Locals fear that the current condition of the road may lead to severe inconvenience, traffic disruptions and potential safety hazards for visitors.
Adding to the concerns, residents claimed that the contractor had cited alleged threats from certain individuals as a reason for not resuming the work, raising questions over the smooth execution of public welfare projects in the area.
Meanwhile, residents of the Kreeri-Wagoora constituency have appealed to their MLA, Advocate Irfan Hafiz Lone, to intervene and ensure immediate resumption of the work. “We only see politicians during elections. Basic amenities like road connectivity remain neglected,” they said, urging the MLA to visit the area and assess the situation firsthand.
When contacted, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Baramulla, Mudasir Choudhary, said he would verify the status of the project and respond. However, no further response was received, and subsequent attempts to reach him went unanswered, further adding to the residents’ frustration.

Kupwara,Apr,05:Kupwara district in North Kashmir is blessed with abundant natural water resources, among which Nallah Mawar and Nallah Pohru (locally known as Pharou/Pehru) stand out as the most vital. These perennial streams are not merely water bodies; they are the backbone of life in the region, sustaining drinking water supplies, agriculture, horticulture, and overall livelihoods for nearly 70% of the population.

According to official records of the District Administration Kupwara, along with technical reports of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and District Irrigation Plan under PMKSY, Nallah Mawar originates from the snow-fed Shamsabari mountain ranges. It flows through the Mawar–Qalamabad belt of Handwara before merging into the larger Pohru system. Nallah Pohru itself is formed by the confluence of Kehmil and Lolab nallahs and eventually drains into the River Jhelum near Sopore.

Historically, these streams have been lifelines in the truest sense. In times when road connectivity was limited, they even served as important transport routes between Kupwara and Baramulla. More importantly, they continue to play a crucial role in irrigation networks and groundwater recharge, directly supporting the district’s agrarian economy.

However, this lifeline is now under severe threat.Over the years, unchecked urbanization, unregulated waste disposal, and administrative lapses have turned these once-pristine streams into polluted channels. Sewage from towns and villages flows directly into the nallahs without any treatment. Instead of establishing adequate Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), drainage systems have been designed to discharge waste straight into these water bodies.

Adding to the crisis is the rampant dumping of solid waste along the banks. Plastic, polythene, and other non-biodegradable materials are visible across stretches in Handwara, Langate, Pharou, and Kupwara. In some areas, even animal carcasses can be seen floating, highlighting the gravity of neglect.

Encroachments and unregulated sand extraction have further disturbed the ecological balance, damaging the natural habitat and reducing the carrying capacity of these streams.

Environmentalists warn that if this trend continues, the damage may soon become irreversible.Despite the formulation of several action plans aimed at intercepting and managing sewage and waste in key towns, implementation remains a distant goal. Projects approved at higher levels are still awaiting funding and execution, reflecting a gap between policy and practice.

The crisis extends beyond these major streams. Smaller water bodies and traditional channels such as Douhgam Koul, Lalkul, Gratkoul, Hardkhari, and Doodkoul are also facing similar neglect, with many either blocked or disappearing entirely.Equally troubling is the lack of accountability at multiple levels. While awareness campaigns, seminars, and social media initiatives are frequently conducted, they have failed to translate into tangible results on the ground. Signboards promoting cleanliness may be visible, but the reality remains unchanged.

This is not solely a government failure; it is a collective one. From authorities to local bodies, and from civil society to individual citizens, everyone shares responsibility for the current state of affairs.The need of the hour is coordinated and sincere action. Establishing functional waste management systems, constructing sewage treatment plants, enforcing strict regulations against dumping and encroachment, and reviving traditional water channels must become immediate priorities.

A few unsung heroes from government departments and civil society continue to work tirelessly for the protection of the environment and natural water resources. Among them is Noorul Shabaz, a young gold medalist from Pharoupeth and founding member of the Pharou Youth Federation, who has taken it upon himself to raise awareness about the deteriorating condition of local water bodies. Calling it a “basic need of the time,” he emphasized that despite repeatedly knocking on the doors of the civil administration, no concrete action has been taken on the ground. He has passionately appealed to the youth to come forward and join hands in safeguarding these vital water resources for future generations.

Local Auqaf committees, religious leaders, civil society groups, and youth organizations must also step forward not just in words, but through meaningful action.Community participation will be key to restoring and protecting these lifelines.

The future of Kupwara depends on the health of its water resources. If Nallah Mawar and Nallah Pohru continue to be neglected, the district risks facing a severe water and environmental crisis in the years to come.

Sopore 6th Feb:- Radio Chinar 90.4 FM will celebrate its fifth anniversary by launching a photography competition on February 13, 2026, coinciding with World Radio Day. The event aims to engage the community and showcase talent, with winners receiving felicitations and prizes. Participants are invited to submit their photographs across any genre—such as landscape, portrait, wildlife, or abstract—via email at radiochinar90.4@gmail.com. The deadline for submissions is February 10, 2026, ensuring ample time for review and judging.

Baramulla, Jan 26: The In-Charge Cultural Education Wing, Baramulla, and Nodal Officer for National Programmes, Nazir Ahmad, was felicitated by the District Administration Baramulla on the auspicious occasion of the 77th Republic Day, 2026, in recognition of his outstanding dedication, exemplary hard work, and unwavering commitment towards the promotion of education and cultural activities.

The honour was bestowed upon him in appreciation of his tireless efforts in planning, coordinating, and successfully implementing various cultural and national programmes across the district. His proactive leadership and meticulous supervision have played a pivotal role in fostering patriotism, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing student participation at different levels.

Nazir Ahmad’s consistent sincerity, strong sense of responsibility, and devotion to duty have significantly contributed to the smooth conduct of district-level events and initiatives. 

The recognition by the District Administration stands as a testimony to his commendable public service and continues to inspire others in the field of education and cultural development.

LANGATE,Jan,26:Senior Correspondent North Kashmir of Daily English Newspaper Headlines Today and Research Scholar, senior journalist Dr.Ab Qayoom, received a Certificate of Appreciation on the occasion of Republic Day celebrations held at the Tehsil Headquarters Handwara, organized by the Tehsil Administration Langate.

The certificate was awarded in recognition of his dedicated services in the field of journalism and his consistent efforts in highlighting public issues, administrative initiatives, and developmental activities in North Kashmir.

Dr. Ab Qayoom expressed gratitude to the Tehsil Administration Langate for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving society through responsible and constructive journalism.

Handwara,Jan,19:The Phase-II celebration commemorating 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram” was observed with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Town Hall, Handwara, in Sub Division Handwara.

The event witnessed vibrant participation from students of various schools, who showcased their talent through quiz competitions and patriotic cultural programmes. The performance by the police band added colour, energy, and a sense of national pride to the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Handwara, Javed Naseem Masoodi (JKAS), highlighted the historical significance of “Vande Mataram” and emphasised its role in instilling patriotism, unity, and love for the motherland among citizens, especially the younger generation.

The programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Handwara, Sahil Sarangal (IAS), Deputy Chief Education Officer Kupwara (HQ Handwara), Zonal Education Officer Handwara, Zonal Education Officer Rajwar, and officers from various line departments at the sub-divisional level. Their presence reflected strong administrative support and community involvement in the celebration.

As part of the event, certificates of appreciation were distributed among students and other participants in recognition of their enthusiastic participation and valuable contributions.

The celebration concluded on a high note, reinforcing the values of national pride, unity, and devotion to the nation, and leaving a lasting impression on all present.

Handwara,Jan,18:Handwara Police foiled an attempt of illegal transportation of essential commodities by seizing 750 kilograms of rice at Vilgam on Saturday.

The seizure was made during routine naka checking when a police team noticed a suspicious vehicle and stopped it for inspection. On checking the vehicle, police found a large quantity of rice being transported without any valid permit or supporting documents.

The driver failed to produce any authorization regarding the lawful transportation of the rice.

 As a result, the entire consignment weighing about 750 kg was seized on the spot and the vehicle was taken into police custody.

An FIR has been registered at Police Station Vilgam under relevant sections of law, and further investigation has been initiated to ascertain the source and intended destination of the seized rice.

Handwara Police has reiterated its commitment to curb illegal transportation and black marketing of essential commodities. The public has been urged to cooperate with the police and report any such illegal activities to the nearest police station.

Mumbai, November 24 — Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra, fondly known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” has died at the age of 89, his team confirmed today. The news has sent shockwaves across the film fraternity and among generations of fans who grew up watching his rugged heroism and warm charisma on screen.

Dharmendra, whose real name was Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, breathed his last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. He had been admitted earlier amid reports of respiratory distress, sparking widespread concern. 

A towering figure in Indian cinema, Dharmendra’s career spanned more than six decades. He starred in over 300 films, delivering unforgettable performances in classics such as Phool Aur Patthar, Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baarat, and Satyakam. 

Known not just for his on-screen strength but also his humility off-screen, Dharmendra was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2012 for his contributions to Indian cinema. His legacy is also carried forward through his family — he is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his children: actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, along with Vijeta and Ajeeta. 

His final film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat, is scheduled to release on December 25, serving as a poignant posthumous tribute to his enduring presence. 

As the nation mourns, tributes are pouring in from across the entertainment industry. Dharmendra was not just a hero in his films — he was a symbol of strength, grace, and timeless charm. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of millions.