Langate,Sept,17: A modern dental facility equipped with two high-tech dental chairs and supporting equipment was inaugurated at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Langate on Wednesday, bringing improved dental care closer to around 1.5 lakh people living in Langate and adjoining areas.

The facility has been established with the support of Rotary Club, Mumbai, under a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The Indian Army stationed in Langate played a key role in facilitating the project by coordinating between Rotary Club, Mumbai and SDH Langate and providing the required logistical support.

The newly established facility is expected to improve access to dental consultation and treatment, particularly for people living in remote and underserved areas. It will also help reduce the need for patients to travel to distant healthcare centres for specialised dental services.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Principal, GMC Handwara, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Handwara, BMO Langate, senior dental staff and other medical officials. Officers of the Indian Army were also present on the occasion.

The initiative received a warm response from local residents, traders, transporters and civil society members. The local trade union President, Langate, Lateef Ahmad Ganie, led the participation of local stakeholders, who appreciated the efforts of the Indian Army and Rotary Club, Mumbai towards strengthening healthcare facilities in the area.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman of Rotary Club, Mumbai, said that the organisation would continue working for needy people and supporting basic developmental needs in the border district of Kupwara.

He also appreciated the contribution of noted social worker Aabida G. of Rajwar, Handwara, for joining efforts aimed at supporting poor and helpless people and promoting development in the region.

The Rotary Club Chairman said that continued participation of the youth is essential for achieving the goal of a peaceful environment and creating opportunities for the unemployed youth. He said that Rotary Club, along with local stakeholders, would continue its efforts for the welfare of needy and helpless people across Jammu and Kashmir.

Local residents hailed the civil-military cooperation behind the project and said that the Indian Army in Langate has been contributing not only through its professional duties but also through various welfare and community-oriented initiatives.

The initiative was also welcomed as a positive example of cooperation between the Indian Army, civil administration, healthcare institutions, NGOs and local communities for improving public welfare in remote areas of Kupwara.

SRINAGAR, Sept 15: Team Headlines Today and Lubaab Publications Group, have expressed deep grief and shock over the demise of senior journalist and editor of Morning Times, Syed Bashir Ahmad Simnani, Popularly known as Naushad.

In a condolence statement, Team Headlines Today said the Kashmir journalistic fraternity had lost a thorough professional and a dedicated journalist. 

Simnani Sahib was a dear and respected friend, Team Headlines Today conveyed its heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved Simnani family, friends and members of the media fraternity and prayed to the Almighty for the Maghfirat of the departed soul and for strength and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. ....Aameen.

NEW DELHI 15 SEP 2026: A courtesy meeting was held with Shri Antar Singh Arya, Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), Government of India, by Shri Ramray Tudu, General Manager of GAIL India, and Shri Subeer Paul, National President of the Indian Chambers of Commerce for SC, ST and Women Entrepreneurs (ICC SCST WE).

During the meeting, participants held comprehensive discussions on several critical issues related to the economic, social, and educational development of tribal communities, including generating employment opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and effectively implementing government schemes. It was noted that these discussions extended over approximately thirty hours.

Focus on Employment and Entrepreneurship

The meeting specifically emphasised the importance of creating new employment opportunities for tribal youth, highlighting the need to foster entrepreneurship within these communities.

Handwara, Sept 9: Handwara Police on Wednesday claimed to have busted a terror module allegedly being operated by an ex-terrorist in the Handwara–Kupwara area and arrested one person in connection with the case.

According to police, reliable information was received regarding the activities of an ex-terrorist who was allegedly operating in a “hybrid” mode as part of a module linked with the banned terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).

Acting on the information, Handwara Police, in coordination with 21 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and 92 Battalion CRPF, launched a joint operation at an identified location in Handwara town.Following a security operation, the accused was apprehended and identified as Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, son of Mohammad Sultan Bhat, a resident of Kruhmura, Handwara, police said.

During the apprehension, security forces recovered one Chinese-made pistol, two magazines and 16 rounds of pistol ammunition from his possession, according to the police.Police said the arrested individual is an ex-terrorist who had previously been arrested in two cases. 

A case under FIR No. 232, under relevant sections of law, has been registered at Police Station Handwara.Further investigation is underway to ascertain the alleged module's network, its extent and the involvement of other individuals, police said.The latest operation comes amid continued efforts by security agencies to identify and dismantle underground terror networks and prevent attempts to revive militant activities in the Handwara.

SRINAGAR, SEP 9: The Muslim Personal Law Board Jammu & Kashmir has undertaken key organisational changes, appointing Syed Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Andrabi as District President for Baramulla and entrusting Peerzada Mohammad Shafi with the responsibility of coordinating the Board’s affairs in North Kashmir.
The decisions, announced through an official communiqué on Wednesday, are aimed at strengthening the Board’s district-level structure and improving organisational coordination across North Kashmir.
Andrabi, as District President Baramulla, will oversee the strengthening of the district committee, coordinate organisational programmes and ensure implementation of the Board’s policies and directives at the district level.
Peerzada Mohammad Shafi has been assigned the charge of Zone Coordinator, North Kashmir, where he will work in coordination with district presidents and other organisational functionaries to streamline activities and strengthen the Board’s presence in the region.
The arrangements were finalised after consultations with Syed Mohammad Aslam Andrabi, Vice Chairman of the Board, Peerzada Mohammad Shafi and Er. Wali Mohammad Dar, Zone Organiser, North Kashmir.
In another organisational decision, Mufti Mohammad Ishaq Lolabi, Imam and Khateeb of Masjid Huda, Lalpora, Lolab, has been inducted as a member of the Muslim Personal Law Board Jammu & Kashmir.
The Board welcomed the new member and expressed hope that his religious knowledge and experience would contribute to its religious, social and organisational objectives.
The communiqué, issued by Er. Danish Reshi, Advisor to the Grand Mufti J&K and General Secretary (Organisation), called upon all office-bearers and members to extend cooperation to the newly appointed functionaries and work collectively in the larger interest of the organisation and the community.

SRINAGAR,SEP 9:- The International Film Festival Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJ&K) is being complemented by a vibrant series of cultural programmes, bringing together nearly 400 local artists to showcase the rich artistic and folk traditions of Jammu & Kashmir at some of Srinagar’s most prominent cultural and public spaces.

Organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), the programmes are being held alongside the festival to provide delegates, guests and local audiences an opportunity to experience the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

The performances are being staged at iconic venues including the Jhelum Riverfront at Rajbagh, Old Zero Bridge, Sher-i-Kashmir Park, Nishat Garden and the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC).

Featuring traditional music, folk performances and other forms of the region’s performing arts, the programmes have added a distinct local flavour to the international cinematic gathering, creating a cultural bridge between visiting delegates and the artistic traditions of Jammu & Kashmir.

The initiative reflects an effort to present the region not only as a destination for cinema but also as a vibrant centre of music, folklore, performing arts and cultural expression. The convergence of films and local traditions at Srinagar’s heritage and public spaces has further enhanced the festival experience.

On the closing day of IFFJ&K on September 10, cultural programmes will be held at the designated venues from 5 pm to 7 pm, providing a colourful cultural finale to the festival.

Langate, 8 Sep,26: A major fire incident was narrowly averted after a cowshed caught fire in the Chack Tulwari area of Langate town in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district on tuesday evening.

According to locals, the fire broke out at around 9:30 pm in a cowshed belonging to Mohammad Altaf Lone, son of Ahad Lone, of Chack Tulwari. The structure was suddenly engulfed in flames, prompting residents to raise an alarm.

Acting swiftly, personnel from the Indian Army’s Langate Camp, Police Post Langate and local residents rushed to the spot and joined the firefighting efforts. The teams worked in coordination with the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES), managing to bring the blaze under control before it could spread to nearby residential houses.

The prompt intervention of the Army personnel, police and locals helped prevent what could have turned into a major tragedy in the densely populated area.Fortunately, no loss of life or injury was reported. However, the cowshed was partially damaged in the incident.

Locals particularly appreciated the timely intervention of the Army personnel and Handwara Police, who, according to residents, reached the spot before the arrival of the fire tender and played a crucial role in containing the flames.

Meanwhile, residents have renewed their demand for establishing a dedicated Fire and Emergency Services station in Langate town. They said that Langate, being the centre of the Langate constituency, urgently requires its own fire station to ensure a quicker response to fire emergencies.

Residents appealed to the concerned MLA and district administration to take up the matter on priority and establish a fire station in Langate at the earliest.

The exact cause of the fire was not immediately known, and authorities are ascertaining the circumstances leading to the incident.

KREERI, SEPTEMBER 5: The appointment of Dr Idrees Qadri as Block Medical Officer (BMO) Kreeri, Muradabad, with additional charge of the block, has been widely welcomed by the local civil society and healthcare fraternity. Dr Qadri, who is presently serving as BMO Tangmarg, is regarded as a dedicated, experienced and competent medical officer with a professional approach towards administration and public healthcare.
The decision of the higher authorities in the Health and Medical Education Department to entrust the additional responsibility of Medical Block Kreeri to Dr Qadri has been appreciated by people of the area, who believe that placing an experienced officer at the helm of the institution will provide renewed impetus to healthcare delivery and administrative efficiency.
Dr Qadri’s professional record and reputation for sincerity, discipline and commitment have earned him appreciation among colleagues and the communities he has served. His experience in managing healthcare institutions is expected to prove valuable in addressing the day-to-day requirements of Medical Block Kreeri and ensuring better coordination between medical staff, field functionaries and the public.
The civil society of Kreeri warmly welcomed Dr Qadri and expressed confidence that his leadership would help the institution move forward with greater efficiency and a stronger focus on patient care. Local representatives described his posting as a positive development for the area and appreciated the healthcare administration for recognising the importance of competent leadership in strengthening grassroots health institutions.
The staff of Medical Block Kreeri also accorded an enthusiastic welcome to Dr Qadri and conveyed their readiness to extend full cooperation to him. They expressed hope that his guidance and administrative experience would help create a more efficient working environment and contribute to the overall growth and functioning of the health institution.
Residents said that the role of a BMO extends beyond routine administration, as the officer serves as an important link between the healthcare system and the people at the grassroots level. They expressed optimism that Dr Qadri’s experience, coupled with the cooperation of the medical and paramedical staff, would help improve healthcare services and public satisfaction in the block.
The appointment has also been viewed as a reflection of the Health and Medical Education Department’s emphasis on professional competence, administrative experience and efficient leadership while assigning key responsibilities. The local community expressed gratitude to the senior officers of the healthcare administration for entrusting the important responsibility to an officer whose professional credentials and administrative capabilities are expected to benefit Medical Block Kreeri.
With Dr Qadri taking charge, expectations are now high that Medical Block Kreeri will witness greater administrative coordination, improved institutional functioning and a renewed focus on accessible and quality healthcare for the people of the area.

With profound grief and sorrow, we regret to announce the sad demise of Habibullah Wani S/o Abdul Samad Wani R/o Zainakadal, Srinagar, who passed away on 31-08-2026.

May Almighty Allah grant the departed soul Jannat-ul-Firdous and give Sabr-e-Jameel to the bereaved family.

Mourning will be held for three days.

There will be no Ijtimai Fateh Khwani at the graveyard.

Bereaved Family:

Robeel Wani & Tawqeer Wani

May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal peace. Aameen.

Budgam, September 1,2026: The Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), Budgam Abdul Bari delivered judgments in two separate cases today, convicting one individual under Section 353 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for assaulting police officials and another under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act in a cheque dishonour case.

In the first case, the court convicted Mohammad Ali Bhat, son of Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a resident of Rashipora, Budgam, under Section 353 IPC for using criminal force against police officials who were executing a lawful court order.

According to prosecution, a police party had proceeded to Rashipora to enforce a court order regarding accommodation for the accused's wife. Bhat allegedly refused to comply with the order, turned aggressive, and obstructed the police party in discharging their official duties.

The court relied primarily on the testimony of SI Fayaz Ahmad, who was present at the spot and directly witnessed the incident.

However, the court acquitted Bhat of the charge under Section 188 IPC, ruling that in the absence of a duly proved complaint satisfying the mandatory requirement under Section 195 CrPC, conviction under Section 188 could not be sustained merely based on an FIR and police investigation.

The court sentenced Mohammad Ali Bhat to three months of simple imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹5,000. In default of payment of fine, he will undergo an additional 15 days of simple imprisonment.

One-Year Sentence in Cheque Bounce Case

In a separate judgment pronounced the same day, the CJM Budgam convicted Ghulam Hussain Rather, son of Ghulam Rasool Rather, a resident of Ichgam, Budgam, under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act in a cheque dishonour case filed by Ali Mohammad Bhat.

The case involved a ₹3 lakh cheque bearing No. 026699 dated May 15, 2023, which was returned unpaid on June 14, 2023, with the bank citing "Funds Insufficient" as the reason. A statutory demand notice was subsequently issued to the accused.

Rather denied having issued or signed the cheque, alleging it had been misused and his signature forged. However, the court found that the accused had failed to produce convincing material to substantiate his defence. The court held that the statutory presumptions under Sections 118(a) and 139 of the N.I. Act remained unrebutted.

The court sentenced Ghulam Hussain Rather to one year of simple imprisonment and imposed a total amount of ₹3,59,425, comprising the ₹3 lakh cheque amount along with 6 per cent interest, to be paid to the complainant within the period prescribed by the court. In default of payment, the accused will undergo a further three months of simple imprisonment.

The court directed that the accused be forwarded to the Superintendent, Central Jail Srinagar, to serve the sentence.

HANDWARA, AUGUST 31:Tahir Saleem Khan, JKPS (2001), has taken over as the new Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Handwara, succeeding Sahil Sarangal, IPS, who has been transferred and posted as SSP Pulwama in the latest major police reshuffle ordered by the Jammu and Kashmir Government.

The appointment of Tahir Saleem Khan brings an experienced police officer with nearly 25 years of service to the sensitive Handwara district. Khan was earlier serving as Staff Officer to the Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, before being posted as SSP Handwara. The reshuffle was ordered on August 27, 2026.

After assuming charge, the new SSP held an introductory interaction with senior police officers and personnel of the district. He stressed the importance of teamwork, professionalism, discipline and dedication towards public service.

Addressing the officers, SSP Tahir Saleem Khan called for a proactive and people-friendly approach to policing. He emphasized that the police must remain accessible and responsive to the concerns of citizens while maintaining firm action against crime and activities threatening peace and security.

The new SSP also underlined the importance of strengthening coordination between different police units and maintaining close interaction with the public. He called upon officers to address local issues promptly and work towards further strengthening public confidence in the police.

Tahir Saleem Khan is a senior officer of the Jammu & Kashmir Police Service with experience in district policing, law and order, counter-terrorism and other sensitive assignments. During his career, he has held several important positions, including SSP (HR), CID Headquarters; SP/AHJ Srinagar; SP Awantipora; SSP Awantipora; and Staff Officer to IGP Kashmir Zone.

His operational record also includes recognition for gallantry. Official Government of India records show that Tahir Saleem Khan, then serving as SSP, was awarded the Police Medal for Gallantry in 2021.

His posting comes at a time when maintaining peace, strengthening community policing and ensuring effective law-and-order arrangements remain important priorities in Handwara and its adjoining areas.

With his experience in sensitive operational assignments and district policing, Tahir Saleem Khan is expected to focus on strengthening the security mechanism, combating drugs and other forms of crime, addressing public grievances and improving police-public relations.The new SSP emphasis on teamwork and people-oriented policing is likely to give further impetus to community engagement while ensuring firm enforcement of law and order across the Handwara police district.

As Tahir Saleem Khan assumes responsibility, expectations are high that his experience and operational background will contribute to a more responsive, professional and effective policing system, with the safety and security of the people remaining at the centre of his priorities.

Ganderbal, Aug,31:Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Monday organized an awareness programme on the biological control of insect pests affecting temperate fruit crops, with a focus on promoting eco-friendly and sustainable pest management practices among orchardists.

The programme was organized by the All India Coordinated Research Project on Biological Control of Crop Pests (AICRP-BC), Division of Entomology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ganderbal, in collaboration with KVK Ganderbal and with the support of ICAR–National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR-NBAIR), Bengaluru.Around 50 orchardists from different areas of Ganderbal district participated in the programme, which aimed to create awareness about biological control technologies, biopesticides and integrated pest management (IPM) as safer alternatives to excessive dependence on chemical pesticides.

Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, she stressed the need to adopt environmentally safe and sustainable pest management practices for healthy crop production.She said that wider adoption of biological control technologies can help reduce pesticide residues, conserve natural enemies of insect pests, maintain ecological balance and improve the long-term health and productivity of orchards.

Dr. Shaheen Gul, Professor and Head, Division of Entomology, highlighted the importance of biological control and integrated pest management in managing insect pests of temperate fruit crops effectively and sustainably.

Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Malik, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Ganderbal, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of strengthening farmer-scientist interaction. He stressed the need to take practical and eco-friendly pest management technologies to fruit growers at the field level.

During the technical sessions, Prof. Sajad Mohi-ud-Din, Principal Investigator, AICRP-BC, and Dr. Mudasir Gani Bhat, Co-Principal Investigator, AICRP-BC, sensitized orchardists about major insect pests affecting temperate fruit crops, particularly apple.The experts explained various biological control measures, the use of biopesticides and other eco-friendly approaches aimed at achieving sustainable pest management while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.As part of the outreach initiative, biopesticides and laboratory-produced bioagents were also distributed among participating farmers to encourage their practical adoption in orchards.

The programme concluded with an interactive session during which orchardists raised field-level concerns related to pest management and interacted with scientists, KVK experts and extension specialists.

The participating farmers appreciated the initiative and expressed interest in adopting biological control measures for safer, sustainable and effective management of insect pests in temperate fruit crops.

The programme provided an important platform for strengthening farmer-scientist interaction and encouraging sustainable alternatives to chemical-based pest management in the fruit growing sector.

Dr. Mudasir Gani, Assistant Professor, delivered the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the programme.