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  • Shah Fayaz Receives Heartwarming Welcome from All India Leadership in Delhi

    Shah Fayaz, a prominent figure known for his advocacy for the welfare of employees, was greeted with warmth and appreciation by the All India Leadership during a recent event in Delhi.

    As the President of the Jammu and Kashmir Employees Coordination Committee (JKECC) and Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Association (JKTA), Shah Fayaz’s role as the National Secretary of the Indian Public Service Employees Federation (IPSEF) was highlighted and celebrated.

    Fayaz, hailing from Kashmir, has been a relentless advocate for various employee groups, particularly focusing on issues concerning the teaching fraternity and the restoration of the old pension scheme. His stance on the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) underscores the broader objective of ensuring fair policies for employees, especially those who have been deprived of benefits.

    A significant aspect of Fayaz’s advocacy is his concern for Contractual/Contingent Paid Workers (CPWs), whom he believes face exploitation and inadequate wage standards. His efforts extend to addressing the challenges faced by various employee groups, including Regularized Rehbar-e-Taleem (RRETs), Rehbar-e-Taleem (RETs), and general employees.

    Shah Fayaz Receives Heartwarming Welcome from All India Leadership in Delhi
    The gathering was attended by prominent leaders from across the country.

    The gathering, attended by influential leaders from across India, acknowledged Fayaz’s dedicated service and leadership in various capacities. His contributions to both regional and national employee welfare initiatives were lauded with admiration.

    The event not only celebrated Fayaz’s achievements but also highlighted the unity and collaboration among leaders representing diverse states and sectors. It served as a platform for fostering stronger ties and shared initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of public service employees nationwide.

    Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Shah Fayaz emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and coordination among leaders to address the challenges faced by public service employees. The All India leadership reiterated its commitment to working together for the welfare and advancement of public service sectors across the nation. Fayaz was accompanied by representatives from different states and Union Territories (UTs), further emphasizing the widespread support for his endeavors.

  • Woman in Lahore Harassed by Mob for Wearing Dress with Arabic Calligraphy

    Lahore, Pakistan: A seemingly ordinary day at the bustling Ichhra Market took a dangerous turn when a woman’s dress ignited a misunderstanding that could have turned tragic. The woman, unaware of the potential offense, wore a dress with Arabic calligraphy. This triggered a mob from Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, believing the text to be Quranic verses. They encircled and verbally attacked her, fueled by misinterpretation.

    Heroic Intervention: Fortunately, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi bravely intervened. Demonstrating remarkable courage and quick thinking, she de-escalated the situation and ensured the woman’s safety. This act of heroism earned her widespread praise and a nomination for the prestigious Quaid-e-Azam Police Medal.

    Beyond the Incident: The incident sparked a nationwide conversation about tolerance, prejudice, and individual bravery. While many condemned the violence and commended Naqvi’s actions, others highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity and the potential for misinterpretations in a deeply religious society. This discussion has led to broader conversations about balancing religious respect with individual freedom, the dangers of mob mentality, and the importance of critical thinking before reacting hastily.

    Lessons Learned: As the incident fades from memory, it serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of misinformation and the importance of seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions. It also underscores the critical role of law enforcement in protecting individuals from unwarranted aggression. The incident ultimately shines a light on the courageous individuals like ASP Naqvi who step forward to defuse tense situations and promote peace amidst misunderstanding.

  • Residents of Erstwhile Doda welcome ST status for Paddaries

    Demanded inclusion of Paharies of Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban

    Jammu : February 19, 2024

    The Pahari Core Committee has warmly welcomed the decision to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to Paddaries, marking a fulfillment of a longstanding demand of paddari tribe. Sh Abdul Majeed Bichoo, Chairman of the Pahari Core Committee, expressed satisfaction with the recognition of Paddaries, highlighting its cultural and ethnic significance.

    Bichoo further emphasized the linguistic and cultural ties of the Chenab Valley to Western Pahari languages and ethnic relevance of population of Doda Kishtwar and Ramban. Sanjay Thakur Bharatya Organising secretary of the committee  suggested that the Chenab region, comprising areas such as Bhaderwah, Bhalessa, Pogal, Saraz should also be considered for ST status. The committee said that the majority ethnic Kashmiri population in the Chenab Valley, are historically connected to Dhoks, reinforcing the ethnic relevance of this demand.

    The committee advocate extension of ST to areas like Bhaderwah, Bhalessa, Pogal Paristan, Saraz,  Neel, Kishtwar, Bonjwah, and other regions where Western Pahari languages are spoken. The plea is grounded in the cultural and ethnic fabric of these areas, urging authorities to acknowledge and include them under the ST status after seeing the genuineness of the ethnicity and  pahari languages as classified by GA Grierson.

    As the Pahari Core Committee continues its efforts to secure recognition for Paharies of chenab region who are sharing linguistic and ethnic ties, the recent inclusion of Paddaries in the ST category stands as a notable achievement, paving the way for further discussions and considerations.

    In the wake of the recent parliament approval of the Bill to include Paharis in Jammu and Kashmir’s Scheduled Tribes (ST) list, residents of erstwhile Doda are fervently demanding the ST tag for themselves, highlighting their ethnic and western pahari language relevance.

    Expressing a collective sentiment, the residents assert that their distinct ethnicity warrants inclusion in the ST category, echoing the broader call for recognition based on cultural and ethnic considerations. The governments move has triggered aspirations among various areas having pahari ethnic relevance  to secure the benefits associated with Scheduled Tribe status.

    As the demand gains momentum, it reflects a broader discourse on ethnic identity and representation, prompting discussions on the criteria for ST inclusion in the chenab region. The residents of erstwhile Doda are keenly awaiting a positive response from Government of India anticipating a transformative impact on their social and economic status. 

     Prominent who advocates ST status to Paharies of Doda Kishtwar and Ramban include Abdul Khaliq Pogali, Ex ZEO, Fozia Sadaket, Jaswant Singh, Sanjay Bharatya, Anil Kumar, Shahid Katoch and many others.

  • Exploring Heritage: PM Shri Govt. Girls Middle School Jindrah Students Embark on a Historical Field Visit to Krimichi, Udhampur

    Jammu, February 23, 2024  

    Today, students from PM Shri Govt. Girls Middle School, Jindrah Zone Dansal Jammu, embarked on a field visit to the historical site of Krimichi in Udhampur. The initiative, organized under the PM Shri Component, aimed to provide students with a firsthand experience of the rich historical heritage.

    The highlight of the visit was the exploration of the ancient Pandava Temples, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The students were guided through the historical significance of Krimichi, with a particular emphasis on understanding the architectural importance of the Pandava Temples.

    The educational sessions, conducted on-site, were coordinated to enhance the students’ understanding of the historical context surrounding these ancient monuments. The visit not only exposed them to the marvels of our cultural heritage but also instilled a deep appreciation for the preservation efforts undertaken by the ASI.

    The success of this enriching experience was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the organizing team led by Sanjay Sharma, Lakshami Devi, Bindya Rani, and Sadaket Ali. Their meticulous planning ensured that students received the full benefit of the field visit, including transportation, lunch, and refreshments, adhering to the schematic procedure.

    Speaking on the occasion Sadaket Ali Malik throwed light on the pilgrimage heritage and tourism sites located in Jammu and Kashmir. 

    The Headmaster In-Charge Sanjay Sharma expressed gratitude for the collaboration and commitment of all involved, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in shaping the students’ holistic education.

    The PM Shri Govt. Girls Middle School Jandrah remains committed to providing students with diverse learning experiences, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their cultural heritage.

  • International acclaimed singer Sonali Dogra felicitated for Dogri Sangeet promotion.

    In a heartwarming ceremony The Padder Welfare Front brought together a group of remarkable individuals for a simple yet impactful celebration. The event, graced by the presence of Chief Guest Retd Judge Subash Gupta, aimed to recognize outstanding contributions to the cultural fabric of the region.

    Notable honorees included Sonali Dogra, awarded for her outstanding work in Dogri Sangeet, and key figures like Shiv Shakti Trust President Vickey Sharma and Ajeet Yogi, Chairman of trust.  Ravinder Kumar, Chief Editor of Kashmir Sentinel, also added to the distinguished gathering.

    Sonali Dogra is an internationally acclaimed singer, recognized for her outstanding performance and victory in “Voice of Punjab 6.” With a unique ability to sing in different languages, she is versatile and celebrated figure in the music industry.

    Mahinder Rana, President of the Padder Welfare Front, spoke about organization’s commitment to making the public aware of various schemes and actively working towards the cultural promotion of Padder Valley and Jammu Region.

    This organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, benefitting Padder Valley and the broader Jammu community,” remarked Mr. Rana. 

  • Youth dies while playing cricket in Pattan

    Pattan, Jan 26: A heartbreaking incident has been reported In Hanjiwera Pattan, after a 20 year old boy suddenly dies mysteriously while playing cricket in his village of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Friday afternoon.

    Quoting official Sources KNS reported that a 20-year-old Suhaib Yaseen, known as (Junaid), suddenly collapsed while running to bowl in the playground, locals rushed to the spot and however tried to evacuate the boy to hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.

    They said that the Preliminary reports suggest that Suhaib might have suffered a heart attack, though there is no official confirmation yet.

    Also Read: Govt determined to stamp out terrorism in J-K: LG Manoj Sinha

    The deceased has been been identified as Suhaib Yaseen (20) S/O Mohmmad Yaseen wani resident of Hanjiwera pattan, adding that the body has been sent to a nearby hospital for legal formalities.

    Meanwhile, police are ascertaining more facts and a case has been registered, with further details currently under investigation, an official was quoted as saying by KNS.

  • Light rain, snow in Valley parts as night temp rises considerably in J&K

    Srinagar, Jan 26: Light rain and snow lashed a few higher reaches including Gulmarag on Friday. The weatherman has forecast more precipitation in coming days to end an extended dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Reports reaching GNS said that snowfall has been reported from Gulmarg, parts of Kupwara, and Kangan in Ganderbal. Srinagar had traces of rain early in the morning.

    “As expected, light rain/snow occurred at a few higher reaches,” a meteorological department official here told GNS.

    He said partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain and snow at isolated higher reaches till afternoon was expected today and improvement thereafter.

    On January 27, he said, partly to generally cloudy weather with possibility of light snow was expected at isolated higher reaches towards late evening.

    On January 28-29, he said, generally cloudy weather with possibility of light to moderate rain/snow was expected at many places.

    From January 30-31st, he said, there is possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at many places.

    From February 1-3, there is possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at many places.

    “There is significant improvement in visibility and rise in maximum temperature expected in plains of Jammu Division from today onwards.”

    The weatherman has also issued an advisory, saying that the present system may lead to temporary closure of roads of higher reaches and important passes like Sinthan pass, Mughal Road, Sadhna, Razdan pass, Zojila etc. particularly during January 28-31.“Travellers are advised to Plan accordingly,” he said.

    Meanwhile, due to cloud cover, there was considerable increase in night temperature with Srinagar recording a low of minus 0.5°C against minus 3.6°C on previous night and it was 1.8°C above normal for the summer capital of J&K for this time of the year.

    Qazigund recorded a minimum of 0.2°C against minus 4.2°C on the previous night, he said. The minimum temperature was 4.1°C above normal for the gateway town of Kashmir, the MeT official said.

    Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 0.4°C against minus 6.3°C on the previous night and it was 7.1°C above normal for the famous resort in south Kashmir.

    Kokernag, also in south Kashmir, recorded a minimum of minus 0.1°C against minus 1.6°C on the previous night and the temperature was above normal by 3.5°C for the place, the official said.

    Kupwara town in north Kashmir recorded a low of 2.5°C against minus 2.9°C on the previous night and it was 5.4°C above normal there, the official said.

    Gulmarg, the official said, recorded a low of minus 3.7°C against minus 4.5°C on the previous night and the temperature was 3.5°C above normal for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir.

    Jammu, he said, recorded a minimum of 7.0°C against 4.1°C on the previous night, and it was above normal by 5.8°C for the winter capital of J&K.

    Banihal recorded a low of minus 4.2°C, Batote 5.6°C and Bhaderwah minus 0.2°C, he said.

    Kashmir valley is under ‘Chillai-Kalan’, the 40-day harsh period of winter, which will end on January 29. However it does not mean an end to the winter. It is followed by a 20-day-long period called ‘Chillai-Khurd’ that occurs between January 30 and February 19 and a 10-day-long period ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) which is from February 20 to March 1. (GNS)

  • Farooq Abdullah justifies father’s arrest in 1953 by Nehru

    Mumbai, Jan 22: National Conference patron and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and incumbent parliament member Dr Farooq Abdullah whose unexpected comments usually snowball into a controversy in a shocking revelation at an event in India’s commercial capital Mumbai while justifying his father’s over a decade long incarceration said that he never blamed Jawahar Lal Nehru for this.

    Abdullah as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust virtually justified the arrest of National Conference founder Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah said that Nehru might have arrested him in national interest and he never blamed or talked about this arrest. “Nehru might have a better understanding and he might have known it well why he arrested my father and I never blamed him for his arrest,” Abdullah said while speaking at an event in Mumbai to commemorate birth centenary celebrations of Madhu Dandavate who was an Indian physicist and socialist politician, who served as Minister of Railways in the Morarji Desai ministry, and as Minister of Finance in the V P Singh ministry.

    In 1953 the then Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah was arrested from Gulmarg for alleged anti-India activities. Following the dismissal of Sheikh Abdullah, his associate Mirza Afzal Beigh formed the Plebiscite Front on 9 August 1955 demanding a plebiscite to decide the accession of Jammu and Kashmir and the unconditional release of Sheikh Abdullah.

    National Conference stalwarts frequently blame Nehru for his arrest and term it as ‘undemocratic and unconstitutional’.

    It’s probably the first time that Dr Farooq Abdullah has justified his father’s arrest at the hands of India’s first Prime Minister in 1953.

    Abdullah at the event which was graced by top-notched politicians showered a heap of praises on Nehru and Indira Gandhi calling them the architects of modern India.

    He said the contributions of Nehru and Indira are being ignored and more stress is laid on religion and regionalism which according to him is not in the interest of developing India.

  • As 3 quarters of ‘Chillai-Kalan’ go dry, MeT predicts wet spell in last phase in Kashmir

    Srinagar: While three-quarters of ‘Chillai-Kalan’, the 40-day harsh period of winter, have elapsed without rain or snow, weatherman has forecast wet spell at isolated places in the final phase of it in Jammu and Kashmir.

    A meteorological department official here told GNS that while dry weather was expected to continue till Wednesday; generally cloudy weather with light snow at isolated higher reaches was likely on January 24 and 25.

    From January 27-28, he said, generally cloudy weather with light rain/snow over scattered places.

    “There is possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at many places very likely (details awaited) from January 29-31,” he said.

    Meanwhile, he said, moderate to dense fog and fall in day temperature over plains of Jammu division was likely during next two days.

    Regarding night temperature, he said Srinagar recorded a low of minus 4.8°C against minus 3.7°C on previous night and it was 1.6°C below normal for the summer capital of J&K for this time of the year.

    Qazigund recorded a minimum of minus 5.0°C against minus 4.0°C on the previous night, he said. The minimum temperature was 1.1°C below normal for the gateway town of Kashmir, the MeT official said.

    Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 6.5°C against minus 5.5°C on the previous night and it was 1.0°C above normal for the famous resort in south Kashmir.

    Kokernag, also in south Kashmir, recorded a minimum of minus 2.3°C against minus 2.0°C on the previous night and the temperature was above normal by 1.3°C for the place, the official said.

    Kupwara town in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 5.7°C against minus 4.7°C on the previous night and it was 2.8°C below normal there, the official said.

    Gulmarg, the official said, recorded a low of minus 5.0°C against minus 4.6°C on the previous night and the temperature was 3.2°C above normal for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir.

    Jammu, he said, recorded a minimum of 5.6°C against 5.9°C on the previous night, and it was below normal by 1.4°C for the winter capital of J&K.

    Banihal recorded a low of minus 1.2°C, Batote 1.7°C and Bhaderwah minus 0.4°C, he said.

    Kashmir valley is under ‘Chillai-Kalan’, the 40-day harsh period of winter, which will end on January 29. However it does not mean an end to the winter. It is followed by a 20-day-long period called ‘Chillai-Khurd’ that occurs between January 30 and February 19 and a 10-day-long period ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) which is from February 20 to March 1.

  • J&K Bank Q3 net profit up 35% to Rs 421 Cr, 9-month net jumps 57%

    Asset quality continues to be our star metric and the numbers are fast converging towards the best in the industry: Baldev Prakash

    Srinagar, Jan 20: J&K Bank Net Profit rose 35% year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 421.08 Cr for the October-December Quarter (Q3FY 2024) when compared to Rs 311.59 Cr registered for the same period last fiscal. The bank announced the results today after its Board of Directors reviewed and approved the numbers for Q3 and 9-months for FY 2023-24 in a meeting held at Bank’s Zonal Office in Jammu.

    The bank’s profit for 9-months has jumped 57% in Q3 to Rs 1128.60 Cr from Rs 721.05 Cr clocked during nine-months of the last financial year.

    Performance Highlights
    For the quarter, Gross NPA Ratio of the Bank has come down to 4.84% i.e. 241 basis points (bps) YoY and 42 bps QoQ. The Net NPA ratio has also remarkably reduced by 125 bps YoY and is below 1% at 0.83%. Provision coverage ratio (PCR) of the Bank has vastly improved by 678 bps annually to 91.61% for the quarter ended December, 2023 from 84.83% recorded last year.

    Commenting upon the Bank’s asset quality, MD & CEO said, “Asset quality continues to be our star metric and the numbers are fast converging towards the best in the industry. Backed purely by steady recoveries coupled with lower-to-negligible slippages, our GNPA has further reduced and we remain on track to meet our annual market guidance of GNPA around 4.5% while our net NPA is already below 1%. In terms of provisioning too we are very comfortably placed at PCR of above 90% after a very long time.”

    Operating Numbers
    On the back of recoveries, the Bank’s Profit after Tax (PAT) for the Q3 increased by 35% to Rs 421.08 Cr while as the 9-month net figure jumped 57% to Rs 1128.60 Cr.

    The Net Interest Income (NII) has grown 11% YoY for 9-months to Rs 3897.57 Cr for the December quarter when compared to Rs 3495.73 Cr recorded last year, while increasing 2% YoY for Q3 to Rs 1280.44 Cr. The Bank’s Operating Profit stood at Rs 550.54 Cr.

    The Bank’s NIM for the quarter stood at 3.83%. The Return on Assets (RoA) increased by 23 bps YoY to 1.15% for the October-December quarter with Yield on Advances improving by 44 bps to 9.78% from 9.34% recorded last year. Meanwhile, the Bank’s steadily moderating cost-to-income ratio has come down further to 62.36% for the third quarter.

    In his remarks on operating numbers, MD & CEO Baldev Prakash said, “We have continued our growth momentum by delivering another set of quarterly numbers reflecting progress in bottom-line parameters. I am confident that we are well on course to meet our annual growth guidelines.”

    “Our bottom-line got the boost with major recoveries contributing to provision write-backs despite making additional provisions for NPAs at higher than RBI prescribed rates resulting in negative credit costs for the Quarter/9-month period”, he added.

    Business Growth
    The Bank’s net advances are up 16% YoY at Rs 89752.36 Cr during the quarter reviewed while as the deposits have grown 9% from Rs 117935.47 Cr to Rs 128542.47 Cr. The Bank has witnessed 19% YoY growth in advances in its Rest-of-India (RoI) portfolio. The Bank’s overall business has increased by 11.61% to Rs 218650 Cr from Rs 195574 Cr recorded last year.

    Commenting on growth numbers, MD & CEO said, “Driven by the robust retail growth especially in Housing (21%), SME (21% and mostly driven by services) and Credit Card (24%), the Bank’s loan book has gone up 16%. And led by Housing (24%) and Car finance (36%), our Rest-of-India advances portfolio has also grown by 19% quite in line with our ROI focus during the December quarter.”

    “Our deposits witnessed a 9% growth YoY against the industry average of 13% while maintaining the industry-best CASA Ratio at above 50%”, he added.

    Capital Position
    With Tier 1 capital augmentation of over Rs 750 Cr via Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) – a capital-raising tool, the bank’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BASEL III) has reached 14.18% as against 13.82% recorded as on December 31, 2022.

    Regarding the capital position, MD & CEO Baldev Prakash stated, “The recent successful QIP – with an aggregate value of ₹750 Cr has sufficiently strengthened our capital position while boosting our perception in the market because of the unprecedented and swift response from the market. We will use this CET1 capital of Rs 750 Cr as growth capital to augment our capacity to fund our business plans.”

    “With the QIP, our net worth has crossed Rs 10000 Cr for the first time and is currently above Rs 11000 Cr”, MD & CEO added.