Baramulla, Nov,04:Arise Hyundai Sangrama, one of North Kashmir’s leading Hyundai dealerships, proudly unveiled the all-new Hyundai Venue 2025 a fully connected SUV at a grand launch event held at its showroom in Baramulla on Monday. The event drew automobile enthusiasts, customers, and dignitaries who witnessed the formal introduction of Hyundai’s latest compact SUV that blends technology, comfort, and safety in a bold new design.

The Hyundai Venue 2025 arrives with a refreshed, muscular look and several premium upgrades that redefine the compact SUV experience in India. The new model features enhanced dimensions, a dark chrome grille, twin-horn LED DRLs, quad-beam LED headlamps, and a full-width rear light bar giving it a commanding road presence. Inside, the Venue boasts a high-tech dual 12.3-inch curved panoramic display powered by NVIDIA’s ccNC system, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and a 4-way powered driver seat for unmatched comfort.

Safety has also been significantly upgraded with Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) that includes 16 smart features such as forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and smart cruise control. The Venue offers six airbags, electronic stability control, and a high-strength steel body for maximum protection. Powertrain options include a 1.2-litre petrol, 1.0-litre turbo petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel engine, available in both manual and automatic variants.

The SUV is available in multiple seating configurations, including a 6-seater variant, designed to cater to modern families and lifestyle needs. With its advanced connectivity features, spacious interiors, and improved driving dynamics, the new Venue promises a premium and connected driving experience.

The launch ceremony was graced by Masood Ahmad, Cluster Head J&K Bank Baramulla, along with several branch managers of the district. Also present were Imran Rashid (GM North), Parvaiz Ahmad (Sales Head Handwara), Mudisar Ahmad (Sales Head Kupwara), and other members of the Arise Hyundai sales team.

Speaking on the occasion, the management of Arise Hyundai Sangrama reaffirmed their commitment to bringing Hyundai’s latest innovations to the people of North Kashmir. With the introduction of the new Venue, the dealership continues to strengthen its market presence by offering vehicles that combine style, performance, and smart technology.

The launch of the Hyundai Venue 2025 marks another milestone for Hyundai in the Valley setting new standards of connectivity, comfort, and safety for compact SUV lovers.

 To begin with, the book in question can be described as an endeavour to add a new chapter to Urdu literature by adopting the mode of short story format to reflect the past and contemporary social fabric of Kashmir  

        It is well said that Literature has always been a witness to its time, and in his latest Urdu novel “Shareefon Ka Mohalla,” the eminent broadcaster and sensitive writer Muhammad Hussain Zafar offers such a testimony, one that transcends storytelling and becomes a reflection of the social, emotional, and spiritual conflict of Kashmir.

         From the very first page, Zafar’s pen flows with ease and clarity. His prose carries simplicity wrapped in subtle elegance, and his sentences glide gently, yet deeply, through the reader’s heart. The author has not only portrayed the realities of Kashmiri life but has also captured the hopes, disappointments, and dreams of its people with remarkable finesse.

A Symbolic Neighbourhood A Complete World ;

          The very title “Shareefon Ka Mohalla” (The Neighbourhood of the Virtuous) draws attention. On the surface, it appears to describe a common residential area, yet symbolically, it represents the entire social fabric of Kashmir. The characters inhabiting this mohalla come from varied walks of life, each representing a distinct emotion and ideology. Some embody hope, others despair; some reflect love, others endurance.

       Through its streets, walls, and homes, Zafar paints a living portrait of Kashmir one that alternates between pain and tenderness, between tears and faint smiles.

Language, Style, and Depth : 

       Zafar’s command over lucid and graceful Urdu sets him apart. He has tried to avoid unnecessary complexity, preferring simplicity that speaks directly to the heart. This clarity makes his novel accessible to young readers while keeping it intellectually engaging for literary minds.

      The philosophical depth of “Shareefon Ka Mohalla” lies in Zafar’s ability to view Kashmir not merely as a political issue but as a human condition. His writing does not accuse or provoke; it evokes empathy and reflection. It is this human tone, tender yet truthful, that makes his narrative both powerful and enduring.

Meaning, Emotion, and Impact : 

          “Shareefon Ka Mohalla” is much more than a story. It is a social observation captured through art. It weaves together satire, sorrow, affection, and hope.

Every element, from the title, cover design, dialogues, and characters holds symbolic value. The prose breathes with life; it feels as though Kashmir itself is speaking through these pages.

       For the younger generation, the novel serves as a source of intellectual awakening. It reminds readers that literature is not just for entertainment but for self-reflection and awareness.

Conclusion Drawn about the Book :

         As a reader, I would like to acknowledge that “Shareefon Ka Mohalla” is a remarkable creation by Muhammad Hussain Zafar, a blend of art, emotion, and truth. It stands as a significant contribution to contemporary Urdu fiction and as a mirror reflecting the cultural and emotional essence of Kashmir. Moreover, Zafar proves that when the pen remains honest, it not only tells stories, but it also enlightens the heart to its core.

Srinagar, Sept 18: Almuqeet Systems has once again brought laurels to the country by clinching two prestigious titles at the Antonio Meucci Global Telco Awards, held during the Wholesale Worldwide Congress (WWC) in Madrid, Spain.

The Antonio Meucci Global Telco Awards, named after the true inventor of the telephone, annually recognise the most innovative and outstanding telecom service providers from across 160 countries.

This year, Almuqeet Systems emerged as a standout winner, bagging the awards for Best CPaaS and OTT Provider and Best Wholesale Messaging Platform – considered among the highest honours in the telecom industry.

The awards were personally received by the company’s Owner and CEO, Mr. Zaffar Owais Andrabi, who is hailed as a proud son of the soil. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Andrabi credited his dedicated team for the achievement and reaffirmed the company’s mission to drive innovation in the global telecom sector.

It may be recalled that in the previous edition of the awards, Almuqeet Systems had secured recognition as the Best IT House and Progressive Telco Workplace, underscoring its consistent performance and growth on the world stage.

Industry experts at the WWC lauded Almuqeet Systems for its pioneering role in digital communication services, highlighting its rapid rise as a trusted global telecom solutions provider.

Srinagar: HDFC Bank today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Air Force acting through the office of the Assistant Chief of Air Staff – Accounts & Air Veterans and CSC Academy. The day marked the launch of Project HAKK (Hawai Anubhavi Kalyan Kendra) – Serving those who have served. Project HAKK is designed to provide support and services to defence pensioners, veterans and their families.

  Initially, 25 centres have been proposed across the Air Force units, which include New Delhi, Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Pune, Secunderabad, Guwahati, Jodhpur and Chandigarh among others. 

  HDFC Bank under its Parivartan program, will engage in building economic inclusiveness for defence service veterans and next of kin. The Bank in association with CSC Academy (promoted by Common Service Centre E-Governance Limited), will provide skill development and training across financial products and services, empowering them to be financially independent.

  Dignitaries who were present during the signing of the MoU were Air Marshal PK Ghosh AVSM - Air officer in charge Administration, Ms. Smita Bhagat, Group Head – HDFC Bank, Mr. Sanjay Rakesh, Chairman, CSC Academy and other senior officials from the Indian Air Force, HDFC Bank and CSC e Governance.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Satyen Modi, Executive Vice President and Business Head, Alternate Banking Channels & Partnerships - HDFC Bank, Air Vice Marshal Updesh Sharma VSM - Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Accounts & Air Veterans) and Mr. Pravin Chandekar, CEO-CSC Academy. 

 Ms. Smita Bhagat said, “This MoU underscores our commitment to the welfare of the Indian Air Force veterans and their families. HDFC Bank deeply respects the contribution of the Armed Forces towards the country and through these centres, we aim to offer essential banking services to ex-servicemen and the families of both ex-servicemen and martyrs.” 

  Mr. Sanjay Rakesh said, “We are honoured to be of assistance to those who served us by bringing G2C and SPARSH pension services to the doorsteps of our Air Force veterans, their families and next of kin, we reinforce our commitment to their welfare”.

Defence servicemen / ex-servicemen and their families will be able to avail more than 500 G2C and B2C services including Aadhaar service, NPS, PAN Card, passport, bill collection, etc. 

As a part of this MoU, HDFC Bank will play a key role in facilitating and engaging with the defence employees / veterans and their families across the country. The individuals managing the service centres will be trained by CSC Academy and a monthly monetary grant will be paid to them for the first year.(KNT)

Srinagar, Feb 21 : Traders in Srinagar’s bustling city center, Lal Chowk, have issued an appeal to visiting tourists, welcoming them with open arms while urging them to refrain from consuming liquor and drugs. The Traders Association, Central Lal Chowk, has installed signboards and billboards carrying a message encouraging responsible tourism and respect for local culture.

The newly installed signboards read: “Welcome, Dear Tourists. The Traders Association, Central Lal Chowk, invites you to experience the beauty of our heaven on earth! For a memorable and enjoyable trip, we kindly request: Love and cherish your family. Avoid liquor, drugs, spitting on roads, and smoking. Respect our culture and traditions. Stay blessed and enjoy your time in our enchanting city.”

President,Traders Association said the initiative was taken after frequent incidents of tourists consuming alcohol in the area and engaging in fighting, particularly with their families.

"Frequently, shopkeepers in Lal Chowk witness drunk tourists quarreling with their families. Women and children are left in distress, often seen crying and traumatized. As hosts, we welcome all visitors, but we strongly urge them to avoid alcohol consumption to ensure a peaceful and pleasant environment for everyone," Bilal Ahmad said.

The association’s General Secretary, Shirar Ahmad Mir, also endorsed the move, stating that maintaining the cultural ethos of the city while providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all tourists is a shared responsibility.

 The traders hope that their message will foster responsible tourism and encourage visitors to respect the traditions of Kashmir while enjoying their stay in the Valley. [KNT]

Srinagar, Feb 20 : Intensifying its enforcement drives to weed out sale of counterfeit products, the Quality Control Division of Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, today conducted inspections of various showrooms dealing in sale of hand-made products in Durganag and Dalgate sections of the City Centre, here.

During the inspections, craft dealers were advised to desist from selling machine-made items in the garb of genuine handmade products.

According to the reports, in an official press release issued here today, Deputy Director, Quality Control, Mirza Shahid Ali stated that with the advent of tourist season in Kashmir, the Department will intensify ongoing drives and ensure that buyers are sold certified hand-made products in various sale outlets in capital city and routes towards the famous health resorts of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg, which attract a heavy footfall of tourists. “The Quality Control wing has constituted various inspection squads which are regularly checking sale and purchase of genuine hand-made products,” he added.

The Deputy Director further stated that the Government is exercising a zero-tolerance policy towards sale of counterfeit products in the name of hand-made products. “Anyone found misbranding of notified products would be dealt under the relevant provisions of Quality Control Act, 1976, including imposition of heavy penalties and cancellation of registration, including blacklisting,” he added.

Shahid Ali said the inspection drives shall continue on a regular basis for maintaining highest standards of quality and customer service. “In order to promote sale of exquisite hand-made products, we urge stakeholders to approach our Department for GI tagging, testing and certification of their products at PTQCC, IICT and Quality Control labs, which shall ensure customer satisfaction and safeguard the rich heritage of Kashmir,” he added. (ANB)

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 , Feb 10: Reinforcing its social commitments, J&K Bank has launched a widespread campaign to support individuals with hearing and speech impairments in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Funded under the Bank's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the campaign is being implemented by Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS) - a non-profit organization dedicated to healthcare and rehabilitation.

The Bank’s General Manager (S&IT/CSR) Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat formally inaugurated the campaign in the presence of Chairman & Patron (VMS) Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool, Deputy General Manager Manju Gupta, Zonal Head (Srinagar) Raja Zaffar Khan, Director VMS Dr Bashir Lone and senior functionaries from both organizations here at the VMS Complex in Bemina.

As part of the project, the General Manager also handed over the keys of the mobility van to the Chairman VMS, the procurement of which has also been supported by the Bank to enhance outreach and expand the campaign’s impact.

Speaking on the occasion, General Manager Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat said, “At J&K Bank, we believe in nurturing an equitable and inclusive society by supporting those in need with means to improve their quality of life. By providing for the assistive devices and therapy to the individuals facing hearing and speech disabilities under the CSR initiative, we not only enhance their healthcare access through this campaign but are also empowering them socially and economically.”

“Through this initiative, we continue to uphold our mission of contributing to the welfare of the people we serve, reaffirming our role as a socially responsible institution dedicated to positive societal transformation”, he added.

Expressing gratitude for the Bank’s support, VMS Patron Dr Maqbool said, “This initiative by J&K Bank is a significant step toward improving the lives of people with hearing and speech impairments. Through this collaborative campaign, we aim to make a meaningful difference in their lives by ensuring that they receive the much-needed medical care and requisite aids.”

Under the initiative, 15 speech & audiology medical camps will be organized across the region. The campaign is expected to directly benefit over 1500 individuals by providing free hearing aids, while thousands more will undergo medical assessments at these camps. Additionally, hundreds of beneficiaries will receive speech therapy treatments to improve their communication abilities.

Besides expanding awareness and education on hearing and speech-related challenges among the communities in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh; the organisation of free camps will encourage early interventions by enabling timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term disabilities.

While providing essential medical support to underprivileged individuals, the initiative will empower people with hearing and speech impairments to improve their social, educational and economic participation in the larger goals of national development. (ANB)

Srinagar, Feb 07 : Strengthening its footprint further in the rest of the country, J&K Bank today commissioned a new branch at Gomti Nagar, Lucknow.

MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee formally inaugurated the branch in presence of the Bank’s Divisional Head (Rest of India) Rajesh Gupta, Zonal Head (Delhi) Suresh Choudhary and Cluster Head (Lucknow) Rajesh Sharma, amid a gathering of Bank’s valuable customers, prominent citizens and businessmen from the area.

Speaking on the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, "With the launch of our Gomti Nagar branch, we reaffirm our commitment to serving the people of Uttar Pradesh with best-in-class banking services. Integrating digital convenience with personalized customer service, this state-of-the-art branch is designed to offer a seamless banking experience."

"And in line with our strategic vision, we look forward to deepening our relationships with businesses and individuals in this vibrant region", he added. 

According to the reports, expressing confidence in the branch’s potential, GM & Divisional Head (ROI) Rajesh Gupta said, "Our expansion in Lucknow is part of the Bank’s focus on the growing business and commercial hubs in India. With a customer-centric approach and a strong digital ecosystem, we aim to cater to the evolving financial needs of the people in the region."

Notably, the new Gomti Nagar branch will provide a comprehensive suite of banking and financial services, including digital banking solutions, retail and corporate banking products, ensuring convenience and accessibility for customers in the area.

Srinagar: Sakshi Gupta, Principal Economist HDFC Bank while reacting to the RBI move said that in the inflation-growth trade-off the RBI tilted towards supporting growth by cutting the policy rate by 25bps today. 

This decision was underpinned by the governor’s emphasis on the “flexibility” in the inflation target framework, a deviation from the previous assertion of reaching the median target of 4% by the central bank.

While the policy rate was reduced, the MPC kept the stance unchanged at neutral. This could imply a more cautious approach towards the extent of rate cuts going forward in this rate cutting cycle.

The stance also suggests that while the central bank is likely to provide sufficient liquidity – both transient and durable -- to the system, it has abstained from providing a liquidity bonanza.

Therefore, lingering pressures on liquidity could weigh on the transmission process for now. 

The pressure on liquidity conditions is anticipated to linger on as we move into the end of the month and year-end drags including advance tax outflows weigh in. We expect this to be met by

appropriate liquidity infusion measures including further OMOs, buy/sell swaps and longer duration repos.

The RBI showed confidence in the disinflation process, pegging the inflation rate to average at 4.2% in FY26 while growth is projected to be at 6.7% -- which is towards the higher end of the range set out in the economic survey of 6.3-6.8% for FY26.

The governor set out a more balanced approach towards regulations which would strike a balance between the associated benefits and costs. However, it fell short of providing any clarity on the implementation of the new LCR norms.

We expect the RBI to frontload its rate cuts and deliver another rate cut in the April policy of 25bps.

The space for rate cuts beyond this would hinge on how domestic and global headwinds pan out.(KNT)

Srinagar, Feb 05 : In a major relief to bereaved families, J&K Bank recently facilitated the quick settlement of insurance claims under its MetLoan & Life Suraksha (MLLS) product for deceased borrowers in its Srinagar Zone. Insurance claims amounting to Rs 1.53 Crore were paid to 48 families thereby easing their financial burden during difficult times. 

According to the reports, the symbolic cheque representing the disbursed amount was jointly displayed by the Bank’s Zonal Head (Srinagar) Raja Zaffer Khan alongside Associate Director & Head (PNB MetLife) Irfan Ali Zargar in the presence of Cluster Heads (Srinagar I & II) Shabir Ahmad Bulla and Asmat Ara, Credit Head (LCU) Nisar John Tak, AGM Mushtaq Ahmad Bayroo, and other senior officials at the Bank’s Srinagar Zonal Office. The event was also attended by Branch Heads, advance managers, Zonal Insurance Coordinator (Srinagar) Manzoor Ahmad and senior representatives from PNB MetLife, including Regional Manager Mudasir Hassan Khanyari and Area Manager Zubair Ahmad Dar. 

Expressing gratitude for quick redressal, the claimants appreciated the Bank and its insurance partner, PNB MetLife, for their timely support. “We are thankful to the Bank for covering these loans under insurance and facilitating the swift settlement of claims. PNB MetLife’s prompt action has relieved us from a significant financial burden,” they said.

Speaking on the occasion, Zonal Head (Srinagar) Raja Zaffer Khan emphasized the importance of insuring loans to secure the financial future of families. “We along with our partners, remain committed to safeguarding the interests of our customers through timely and customer-centric products and services. And by insuring loans with products like MLLS, we can reduce the financial burden on borrowers and their families during challenging times.”

While urging the branches to continue to make sure that every claim is settled swiftly in case of death of the borrower, Cluster Heads said, “With a single premium option and the bank funding available, insuring loans goes a long way in reducing the financial burden on families during such difficult times.”

Associate Director & Head (PNB MetLife) Irfan Ali Zargar also advised customers to consider loan insurance for their peace of mind. “While we cannot compensate for the emotional loss, promoting good insurance products can provide much-needed financial support to bereaved families, relieving them from the burden of liabilities in unforeseen circumstances,” he said. (ANB)

Srinagar, Feb 05  : Started in 2017 With determination and family support, a 45-year-old woman Fareeda Banoo from Khan Sahab, Budgam, has turned fish farming into a successful venture, managing both her household and business with equal dedication.

Fareeda Banoo said, "With my husband's support, I am running this fish farm from 2017. Initially, I had no interest in it, but he encouraged and supported me in this work. Alhamdulillah, we are doing well."

However, she noted that business has slowed down this year. "Last year, we were selling around 25-30 kg of fish, but this year, it has dropped to around 5-10 kg. Still, Alhamdulillah, we continue our work."

She said that the support she has received from both her family and the government. "The Fisheries Department provided me with the seeds for fish farming, and I am thankful to them," she said.

On facing criticism, Fareeda said that that negativity should not deter anyone from working hard. "People always criticize, but those who want to work will find a way. There is no space for criticism. People have nothing else to do but criticize others—we must concentrate on our work," she added.

Balancing multiple responsibilities, she proudly said, "I manage my household as a homemaker and also run the fish farm." (JKNS)