Kupwara, Apr, 09: Illegal felling of forest trees by alleged jungle smugglers has been reported from Compartment No. 20 of Forest Division Kupwara, covering the areas of Kandi, Takibal, and Hoarn villages in Kupwara district.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents and environmental observers, who have expressed alarm over the continued degradation of forest resources in the area.

Efforts to obtain an official statement from the concerned Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) remained unsuccessful, as repeated phone calls, text messages, and WhatsApp communications went unanswered, which was termed as unfortunate and disappointing. (HT-NEWSNETWORK)

However, a local forest officer confirmed that an FIR bearing No. 0063 under Section 303(2)/26 of the Forest Act was registered on April 08, 2026, against two identified smugglers involved in the illegal activity. The officer further stated that a forest guard has been attached to the Range Office for the past five days in connection with the case.

Authorities have initiated an investigation, and strict action is expected against the accused smugglers as well as any forest officials found involved or negligent in the matter.

The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced vigilance, accountability, and coordinated efforts to safeguard the fragile forest ecosystem of Kupwara.

 Baramulla:- April 06:- Plantation Drives Across District Baramulla – A Collective Step Towards a Greener Future

Under the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Education, Jammu and Kashmir, plantation initiatives were successfully conducted today across all educational institutions within District Baramulla, demonstrating widespread enthusiasm and dedication.

The Chief Education Officer (CEO) of Baramulla personally supervised the plantation efforts in Zone Dangerpora, with particular emphasis on HSS Botingo and HS Seelo, motivating both staff and students through active engagement. Meanwhile, Deputy Education Public Officer (DEPO) Baramulla, Tariq Ahmad, participated actively in the plantation initiative organised in Cluster Dangiwacha, reinforcing the communal spirit of this commendable endeavour.

All institution heads and zonal education officers ensured the effective execution of the program through thorough planning and coordination. The drives received enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and community members, reflecting a collective commitment to environmental preservation.

This initiative extends beyond the act of planting saplings; it aims to foster a culture of responsibility, awareness, and sustainable living among the youth. Each sapling represents a symbol of hope, growth, and the prospect of a greener future for Kashmir.

These collaborative efforts, conducted under the Greener Kashmir Programme and Mission LiFE, serve as a compelling reminder that collective small actions can culminate in significant environmental impact.

The Chief Education Office, Baramulla, commends the dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm demonstrated by all stakeholders. It is imperative that we continue to maintain this momentum and commitment to protect and conserve the environment for future generations.

“Plant today, nurture tomorrow, and secure the future.”

Srinagar, March 29: The Executive Body of the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri held an important Session at its head office in Andrabi Complex, Kreeri, where a comprehensive strategy was formulated to revive and strengthen the functioning of the organisation and to promote literary and cultural activities across the region.

The meeting was presided over by the Forum President, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, while proceedings were conducted by General Secretary Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri. Detailed deliberations were held on strengthening the organisational structure, improving institutional performance, and revitalising literary and cultural engagement in North Kashmir.

The Executive Body also decided to organise a grand one-day literary conference on April 12, 2026, at Government Degree College Kreeri. The conference will comprise two sessions. During the inaugural session, a new literary honour titled “Sharaf-e-Kruhen” will be instituted. The first award will be conferred posthumously upon noted scholar and litterateur, the late Syed Manzoor Hashmi, in recognition of his significant literary contributions.

The meeting ratified the induction of new members, including Mumtaz Rashid, Shaukat Tilgami, Dilbar Wani Gami, Syed Tasaduq Hussain Gohar, and Ghulam Hassan Darvesh.

A representative delegation was also constituted for Adabi Markaz Kamraz, comprising SGM Andrabi, Mumtaz Rashid, Shaukat Tilgami, and Sarwar Hashmi. The delegation will be led by Executive Member Syed Jahangir Bukhari.

In a move to revive its publication activities, the Forum constituted an editorial board tasked with expediting the publication of its long-pending annual journal “Anhaar.” Additionally, it was decided to launch a new publication titled “Babul Murad,” aimed at providing a platform for emerging writers and literary enthusiasts to showcase their creative work.

Concluding the meeting, Vice President Syed Ghulam Mohiuddin Andrabi expressed satisfaction over the proceedings and reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to intensifying efforts for the promotion of literature and culture in the region.

Srinagar, March 29: The Executive Body of the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri held an important meeting at its head office located in Andrabi Complex, Kreeri, to deliberate on measures aimed at strengthening the organization’s functioning and promoting literary and cultural activities.

The meeting was presided over by the Forum’s President, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, while proceedings were conducted by General Secretary Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri. Detailed discussions were held on revitalizing one of North Kashmir’s oldest literary organizations and expanding its scope and outreach.

Among the key decisions, it was announced that a grand one-day literary conference will be held on April 12, 2026, at Government Degree College Kreeri. The conference will consist of two sessions. During the first session, a new award titled “Sharaf-e-Kruhen” will be instituted. The inaugural award will be conferred posthumously upon noted scholar late Syed Manzoor Hashmi in recognition of his distinguished and lasting contributions to literature.

The Executive Body also carried out the selection of its members and appointed representatives for Adabi Markaz Kamraz. In this regard, a five-member delegation was constituted under the leadership of a member of the Executive Body.

To streamline and strengthen publication activities, an editorial board was also established to oversee the Forum’s publications. The board has been directed to ensure the early revival of the annual journal “Anhaar,” which has remained suspended for several years. Additionally, the Forum resolved to launch a new publication titled “Bab-ul-Murad,” aimed at providing an effective platform for young writers and literary enthusiasts.

Concluding the meeting, Vice President Syed Ghulam Mohiuddin Andrabi expressed satisfaction over the proceedings and reiterated the Forum’s commitment to advancing its objectives and promoting literary excellence.

Kupwara, March 27: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organized an outreach programme on eco-friendly pest management at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara on Thursday, aiming to promote sustainable agricultural practices among tribal farmers.

The programme was conducted under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Biological Control of Crop Pests (AICRP-BC), Division of Entomology, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K Shalimar, with support from ICAR–National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR-NBAIR), Bengaluru.

Prof. Rahiaina Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, who attended the event as Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of environmentally safe and sustainable pest management practices in enhancing crop productivity and ensuring long-term soil health.

Dr. Akhtar Ali Khan, Professor & Head, Division of Entomology, and Dr. G. M. Bhat, Professor & Head, KVK Kupwara, also addressed the gathering. They encouraged farmers to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing dependency on chemical pesticides while improving crop quality.

During the technical sessions, Dr. Sajad Mohi-ud-Din, Principal Investigator, and Dr. Mudasir Gani, Co-Principal Investigator, provided detailed insights into pest management strategies for key crops including pulses, maize, and apple. The experts laid special focus on biological control methods as a sustainable alternative to conventional practices.

As part of the Tribal Sub-Plan initiative of ICAR-NBAIR, essential agricultural inputs such as rajmash seeds, vermicompost, pheromone traps, and neem oil were distributed among participating tribal farmers to support eco-friendly farming.

The programme concluded with an interactive session, where farmers shared their experiences and appreciated SKUAST-K’s efforts in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible agriculture in the area.

Srinagar, Mar, 23:The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday carried out extensive searches at multiple locations across Jammu and Kashmir in connection with its ongoing investigation into the Red Fort car bomb blast case.

According to officials, raids were conducted at nine locations spanning several districts, including Handwara in Kupwara, Rafiabad in Baramulla, as well as areas in Kulgam and Srinagar. The coordinated searches are part of the agency’s efforts to dismantle the wider network linked to the deadly attack.

An NIA spokesperson confirmed that the searches were aimed at gathering further evidence and identifying individuals suspected of having links with the accused involved in the case. Officials indicated that incriminating materials and digital evidence are being examined to trace the conspiracy behind the blast.(PTI)

The Red Fort blast, which occurred on November 10 last year, had sent shockwaves across the country. At least 13 people lost their lives and several others sustained injuries when an explosive-laden vehicle detonated near the historic monument in the national capital.

Investigations revealed that the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber, Umar Un Nabi, a medical doctor and assistant professor at Al Falah University in Faridabad, Haryana. He allegedly drove the explosive-filled car to the site before triggering the blast.

So far, the NIA has arrested 09 to 11 individuals in connection with the case. The agency believes that the attack was part of a larger conspiracy, possibly involving a network operating across multiple regions.

The latest raids in Jammu and Kashmir are seen as a significant step in uncovering the remaining links in the terror network and ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to continue the investigation with full intensity, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against anyone found aiding or abetting terrorism.

Budgam, Mar 9: A court in Budgam on Monday convicted a man in a cheque dishonour case and sentenced him to one year of simple imprisonment along with a fine exceeding ₹40 lakh.

The judgment was delivered by the Court of Sub-Judge/Chief Judicial Magistrate Budgam, presided over by Abdul Bari, in a complaint filed by Mohammad Amin Hajam against Riyaz Ahmad Khan under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act.

According to the court record, the complainant alleged that the accused owed him Rs 30 lakh for coal supplied to a brick kiln run by the accused. To clear the liability, the accused issued six cheques of Rs 5 lakh each in December 2018. When the complainant presented the cheques at J&K Bank, Budgam branch, they were returned unpaid on January 1, 2019 due to “insufficient funds”.

The complainant subsequently served a legal notice to the accused on January 22, 2019 demanding payment within the statutory period. However, the accused failed to respond or clear the dues, prompting the complainant to file a case before the court on February 16, 2019.

During the trial, the complainant produced several witnesses who testified that the accused had purchased coal worth lakhs for his brick kiln and had issued the cheques towards repayment of the outstanding amount. The bank manager also confirmed that the cheques were dishonoured due to lack of sufficient funds in the accused’s account.

In his defence, the accused claimed the cheques were issued as advance payment for coal supply that was allegedly not delivered. However, the court observed that several defence witnesses admitted that the accused had indeed issued the cheques to the complainant.

After examining the evidence and legal provisions under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, the court held that the complainant had successfully proved that the cheques were issued towards a legally enforceable debt and were dishonoured due to insufficient funds.

The court accordingly convicted the accused and sentenced him to one year of simple imprisonment. It also imposed a fine of Rs 40.35 lakh, which includes the cheque amount of Rs 30 lakh and 6 percent interest, directing that the amount be paid to the complainant within one month after the appeal period.

The court further ruled that if the accused fails to pay the fine, he will undergo an additional three months of simple imprisonment. The accused has been sent to Central Jail Srinagar to serve the sentence.

Srinagar, Feb, 27:Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, called for strengthening plant health intelligence systems and adopting predictive approaches to pest management while delivering the keynote address at the National Conference on “Innovations in Plant Health Management for Resilient Agriculture and Agri-Export Promotion” held at National Institute of Plant Health Management.

The three-day national conference, being organized from February 26–28 in Hyderabad, brought together scientists, policymakers and plant health experts from across the country to deliberate on emerging agricultural challenges and sustainable crop protection strategies.

In his keynote address, Prof. Ganai emphasized the urgent need to shift from conventional reactive pest control systems to predictive, intelligence-driven plant health governance. He stressed the importance of fully operationalizing the National Integrated Plant Health Intelligence Mission to enable timely surveillance, early warning systems and data-based decision making in agriculture.

Highlighting India’s growing agricultural output, he noted that while the country produces over 330 million tonnes of food grains annually and horticulture production has surpassed food grain output, pests and diseases continue to cause significant crop losses. Referring to global scientific estimates indicating 20–40 percent crop losses due to biological stresses, he said such losses translate into major economic and ecological costs.

Prof. Ganai observed that climate variability, global trade expansion and increasing pest resistance are rapidly transforming the biological risk landscape. He cited the spread of invasive pests such as Fall Armyworm, Tomato Leaf Miner, Desert Locust outbreaks and Apple Blotch Leaf Miner as clear indicators of evolving threats to agricultural sustainability.

He further underlined the need for modern surveillance systems, including digital pest monitoring networks, smart traps, drone-based precision applications, biological control methods and climate-linked forecasting models. According to him, improved early detection and targeted interventions would help reduce pesticide dependence, minimize crop losses and strengthen agri-export compliance standards.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the importance of customized plant health advisory systems for climate-sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir, particularly for temperate horticulture ecosystems.

During the inaugural session, Prof. Ganai also declared open a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on “Appropriate Pesticide Application Techniques.” Participants described his address as timely and policy-oriented amid rising climate-linked pest challenges.

Later, the SKUAST-K delegation visited the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, where Prof. Ganai held detailed discussions with Director General Dr. Himanshu Pathak and senior scientists. The meeting explored opportunities for collaborative research on climate-resilient agriculture, pest surveillance and sustainable farming solutions.

The proposed collaboration is expected to strengthen research partnerships and support farmers, particularly in addressing emerging pest threats and climate-related agricultural challenges in Kashmir Valley and other vulnerable regions.

Kreeri Feberuary 26 : The literary and cultural fraternity is in deep mourning following the demise of eminent scholar and writer Abdul Ghani Beg Athar, whose passing has been widely described as a profound and irreparable loss to the intellectual landscape of the region.

Athar, who served as former Vice President of Adabi Markaz Kamraz and former Patron of Cultural Trust Kupwara, was known for his unwavering commitment to literature, scholarship, and social reform. Over the years, he emerged as a guiding force for writers and thinkers, dedicating his life to the promotion of knowledge and cultural consciousness.

Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri also expressed profound grief over his passing. In a joint statement, its President, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim and General Secretary Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri, described Abdul Ghani Beg Athar was not only a prolific writer but a moral compass for society whose words carried both wisdom and responsibility.

In a heartfelt condolence message, Adabi Markaz Kamraz remembered him as a sincere, dignified, and visionary literary figure who consistently stood at the forefront of intellectual initiatives. The organization noted that his scholarly works and published books would continue to enlighten and inspire generations to come.

They described him as a towering personality whose scholarship transcended boundaries and whose humility endeared him to all. “His demise has created a void that will be difficult to fill. We have lost a mentor, a thinker, and a custodian of our literary heritage,” the statement read, while extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and praying for eternal peace to the departed soul.

With tributes continuing to pour in from various quarters, Abdul Ghani Beg Athar’s legacy stands firmly etched in the annals of regional literature — a legacy defined by intellect, integrity, and an enduring service to culture and society.

Kupwara,Feb,25:The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara organized a Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) Input Distribution Programme aimed at strengthening the livelihoods of tribal farmers in the district. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Regional Fodder Station Shuhama, Ganderbal, and the Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS) Budgam under the aegis of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir.

The event was inaugurated by Prof. G. M. Bhat, Head of KVK Kupwara, who welcomed the chief guest Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, along with officials from collaborating institutions. Around 150 tribal farmers from various villages of Kupwara district participated in the programme and received agricultural and fodder inputs to enhance livestock-based farming and ensure fodder security.

Addressing the gathering, Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth emphasized the importance of scientific fodder cultivation in strengthening the livestock sector, particularly in tribal and hilly regions. She highlighted that improved fodder management practices can significantly enhance farm productivity and income while helping farmers overcome seasonal fodder shortages during winter months.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Aijaz Ahmad Lone from DARS Budgam elaborated on dryland agricultural technologies and crop management practices suitable for rainfed farming conditions prevalent in Kupwara district.

During the programme, annual and perennial fodder grass seeds were distributed among farmers by officials of the Regional Fodder Station Shuhama, while improved agricultural inputs were also provided by DARS Budgam to promote sustainable farming practices.

Showkat Masoodi, Head of Civil Society Kupwara, appreciated the initiative and encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural technologies introduced by SKUAST-Kashmir to improve productivity and resilience in changing climatic conditions.

Senior scientists of KVK Kupwara, including Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina,Dr. Shahid Ahmad Hakeem, and Dr. Faisal Nabi Bhat, guided farmers on scientific fodder cultivation, balanced livestock nutrition, and effective utilization of the distributed inputs.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers shared field-level challenges and received expert recommendations. The initiative is expected to play a significant role in improving fodder availability and strengthening livelihood security among tribal farming communities in Kupwara district.

Srinagar, Feb,14:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday called for the adoption of technology-driven and organic farming practices to make Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural produce globally competitive. 

He was speaking after inaugurating GON’GUL-2026, the 11th AgriTech Mela, at the Shalimar Campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).The three-day mega event is themed “NextGen Agriculture: My Produce–My Price” and aims to promote innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector.

The inaugural function was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo and Javaid Ahmad Dar, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Registrar Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Principal GMC Srinagar Dr Iffat Hassan, Director Extension Education SKUAST-K Rehana Habib Kanth, along with university faculty members, scientists, experts, progressive farmers, agri-entrepreneurs and youth innovators from across Kashmir.

After inaugurating the event, the Chief Minister inspected over 100 stalls set up by agri-preneurs, start-ups and research institutions showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technologies, organic products, smart irrigation systems, farm machinery and value-added products. He interacted with stall owners and enquired about their innovations, enterprises and market linkages.

Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah praised the growers, scientists, researchers and faculty members for their exceptional contribution in transforming the agrarian landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. He said their sustained efforts under various government programmes are driving innovation, productivity and economic growth in the region.

“To compete at the global level, Jammu and Kashmir must improve both the quality and quantity of its agricultural produce,” he said, adding that technology-based interventions, organic farming, value addition, branding and market linkages are essential for ensuring better returns to farmers.

Highlighting the role of SKUAST-K and SKUAST Jammu, the Chief Minister said both universities have achieved remarkable milestones in agriculture and horticulture and have played a key role in empowering farmers through research, innovation and field-level outreach.

He further noted that platforms like GON’GUL provide farmers an opportunity to directly interact with experts, explore innovative tools and access new markets, thereby strengthening the agricultural ecosystem of the Union Territory.

The Chief Minister also lauded the innovative displays by student-led start-ups and agri-entrepreneurs, particularly appreciating technological solutions in farming and irrigation.

The AgriTech Mela is expected to witness large participation from farmers, start-ups, agri-business firms, researchers and students over the next three days, showcasing the future of NextGen Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu, Feb 11: In a significant cultural event, M. Jackson Cultural Institute and Society, in collaboration with the Jammu Civil Society for Art and Culture, organised a distinguished felicitation ceremony in Jammu to honour Jenab Rafiq Masoodi Sahib, a highly respected scholar and cultural icon of the subcontinent.

The ceremony brought together prominent personalities from the fields of art, literature, culture and social service, who lauded Masoodi Sahib for his extraordinary contributions to the promotion of cultural values, intellectual discourse and social cohesion. Speakers underscored his role in preserving heritage and nurturing inter-cultural understanding, describing his work as both visionary and transformative.

They noted that his decades-long commitment to scholarship and community engagement has left an indelible mark on society, inspiring generations of students, writers and cultural practitioners.

As a mark of honour, Masoodi Sahib was presented with a traditional shawl, a commemorative memento and a formal citation in recognition of his exemplary services and enduring legacy.

The organisers stated that the programme aimed to acknowledge individuals whose work has significantly enriched society and strengthened cultural consciousness. Reaffirming their resolve, they said such initiatives would continue to promote artistic excellence, heritage conservation and cultural dialogue.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the distinguished guests, participants and organisers for their collective efforts in making the programme a memorable success.