#jammu_and_kashmir

Partly Cloudy Skies, Light Rain Likely At Isolated Places: Director MeT The Meteorological Centre Srinagar issued a forecast on Saturday, April 11, 2026, predicting partly to generally cloudy skies with brief spells of light rain at scattered locations in Jammu and Kashmir for the upcoming days. Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, outlined the weather conditions for the region, stating that on April 11, the weather would remain partly to generally cloudy, with a possibility of light rain occurring in isolated areas during the afternoon or evening. For April 12, the forecast indicated generally dry conditions, though a brief spell of light rain was expected at isolated places in the afternoon. From April 13 to 15, the region would experience generally dry weather across all areas. However, starting April 16, the weather was projected to turn generally cloudy, with light rain or thundershowers likely at scattered locations during late afternoon or evening hours. Dr. Ahmad noted that conditions would remain generally dry from April 18 to 22. The Meteorological Department advised farmers to resume all farm operations, citing the overall weather outlook as favorable for agricultural activities. The department emphasized that the forecasted conditions would not disrupt ongoing farming tasks, urging stakeholders to plan accordingly. The forecast highlights the variability in weather patterns across the region, with dry spells alternating with periods of light precipitation. The advisory to farmers underscores the importance of aligning agricultural schedules with the anticipated weather conditions. The department’s detailed breakdown of daily forecasts provides clarity for residents and professionals, ensuring preparedness for potential weather changes.#farmers #jammu_and_kashmir #director_met #metropolitan_centre_srinagar #dr_mukhtar_ahmad

Earthquake Of Magnitude 5.9 Jolts Jammu And Kashmir, Tremors Felt Delhi-NCR A significant earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, April 3, 2026, causing tremors that were felt across multiple regions including Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and other neighboring areas. The seismic event occurred at 9:46 pm local time, with the epicenter located near Darawan, at coordinates 36.52°N latitude and 71.01°E longitude. The earthquake’s depth was recorded at 175 kilometers, which is considered a moderate depth, potentially reducing the intensity of surface effects compared to shallower quakes. Residents in Jammu and Kashmir reported brief but noticeable ground shaking, with some describing a sudden jolt that lasted for several seconds. In Srinagar, chandeliers and fans were observed moving, prompting brief panic among locals. A resident from Delhi recounted the experience, stating, “When the earthquake struck, I was sitting in the room, and I felt the bed shaking, and when I looked up, the fan was shaking too. When I came out, I saw that the people around me were also scared…” This account was shared via social media, highlighting the widespread impact of the tremors. In Chandigarh, Baldev Chand, a resident living on the second floor of a flat, described the event as “a strong jolt that lasted for a few seconds.” According to a PTI report, the tremors caused temporary alarm but did not result in significant structural damage. Similarly, Ajay Kumar, who resides on the 11th floor of a residential society in Zirakpur, Punjab, noted, “The tremors lasted for a few seconds. We thought of rushing down but the tremors stopped soon.” These accounts underscore the localized nature of the shaking, with no major casualties or infrastructure collapse reported.#jammu_and_kashmir #punjab #delhi_ncr #indian_meteorological_department #daranwan

Weather improves in J&K; rain, snow likely around Eid Following two days of rainfall in the plains and snowfall in hill resorts, mountainous regions, and high passes, weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir have seen an improvement, with partially clear skies now visible across the region. The summer capital, Srinagar, is among the areas experiencing this shift. The change comes as the region prepares for the Eid holiday, with forecasts indicating potential for rain and snowfall during the festive period. The weather update was published on March 18, 2026, at 3:04 AM IST, by HT Correspondent based in Srinagar. Copyright 2026 HindustanTimes.#srinagar #hindustan_times #jammu_and_kashmir #eid #ht_correspondent

New Voter Data Released: A Deep Dive into Jammu and Kashmir's Electoral Roll Revision The latest electoral roll revision in Jammu and Kashmir has resulted in the addition of over 160,000 new voters, alongside the removal of 67,690 names and the correction of 229,920 entries. Official reports highlight the scale of the update, which aims to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the voter database across the Union Territory. Among the districts, Jammu recorded the highest number of deletions, attributed to duplicate and shifted entries, while Srinagar saw the most significant increase in new registrations. The revision reflects broader efforts to modernize and refine the electoral process in the region. Initiatives such as the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program are playing a key role in this effort, focusing on expanding voter awareness and registration, particularly among youth, women, and marginalized communities. These programs underscore the government’s commitment to making electoral participation more inclusive and accessible. The data also reveals the challenges inherent in maintaining an accurate voter list. The removal of 67,690 entries underscores the need to address outdated or incorrect information, while the correction of 229,920 records highlights the complexity of reconciling discrepancies. Such updates are critical for ensuring fair and transparent elections, as they help prevent issues like voter fraud and ensure that every eligible citizen is properly represented in the electoral rolls. The revision comes at a time when voter registration and participation are central to political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir. The SVEEP program, which has been active in the region, is part of a larger national initiative to boost voter enrolment and engagement.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #electoral_roll_revision #jammu #sveep_program

1.60 lakh additions in Jammu and Kashmir annual voter roll revision, 67,690 entries deleted More than 1.60 lakh voters were added to the electoral rolls in Jammu and Kashmir during the recent special summary revision (SSR), while 67,690 names were removed, and 2.29 lakh corrections were made, according to official data. Jammu district recorded the highest number of deletions, which included “duplicate” and “shifted” entries, during the annual voter list revision. The special summary revision is distinct from the special intensive revision (SIR) conducted in other states. District-wise, Jammu had the largest number of electors at 11,89,555, followed by Srinagar with 7,53,222 and Baramulla with 7,20,500 voters. Srinagar saw the most additions, with 30,077 new entries, followed by Jammu with 16,855 and Baramulla with 11,854. Jammu also had the highest deletions at 10,430, followed by Budgam with 7,762 and Anantnag with 5,241. The total electorate in Jammu and Kashmir stands at 87,42,878, comprising 44,65,161 male voters, 42,77,568 female voters, and 149 third gender voters. Officials highlighted efforts to achieve 100% voter enrolment, particularly among underrepresented groups. These efforts include the special summary revision under the Representation of the People Act, which now allows four qualifying dates for voter registration—January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme is being implemented to boost voter awareness and participation. Election authorities have launched initiatives under SVEEP to engage youth, women, and marginalized communities. The programme emphasizes informed voting practices and educational outreach.#jammu_and_kashmir #special_summary_revision #representation_of_the_people_act #sveep_programme #jammu_district

Jammu Landslide: 1 dead, another injured in Jammu and Kashmir landslide; 230 evacuated from Sinthan Top amid heavy snowfall A landslide in Jammu and Kashmir killed one person and injured another on Monday, while over 230 people, including women and children, were evacuated from the high-altitude Sinthan Top due to heavy snowfall. The incident occurred near Dangduru in Kishtwar district, where rain triggered the landslide, trapping two workers at a hydropower project site. Rescue teams later recovered one body from the debris and transported the injured worker to a hospital. Authorities also ordered the closure of all educational institutions outside municipal limits in Kishtwar and neighboring Doda district as a precautionary measure amid the adverse weather. The evacuation of Sinthan Top, which connects Kishtwar in the Jammu region with Anantnag district in south Kashmir, involved a joint effort by the police, Army, and civil administration. Over 235 passengers stranded in 38 vehicles were safely evacuated after snow blocked roads and made travel treacherous. Rescue teams provided stranded civilians with food, water, and shelter, while repair crews restored vehicle mobility. Medical teams assisted those in need, and the operation was supervised by Kishtwar deputy commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma, along with local police and military officials. The White Knight Corps, a military unit, played a key role in the rescue mission, highlighting seamless coordination between the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation. The operation, which lasted several hours, underscored the military’s commitment to ensuring safety in extreme conditions.#jammu_and_kashmir #kishtwar_district #dangduru #pankaj_kumar_sharma #white_knight_corps

Eid Ul Fitr Dates in India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia The International Astronomical Center has provided estimates for the dates of Eid Ul Fitr in India, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, based on the sighting of the moon. The exact date of the festival depends on when the moon becomes visible, as the Islamic calendar is lunar-based. In regions where the fast of Ramadan began on February 18, Eid is expected to be celebrated on March 19 or 20, depending on whether the moon is sighted on the 29th or 30th day of Ramadan. If the moon is not visible on March 19, the holiday may be postponed to March 20. In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which are part of the Gulf region, Eid is typically observed one day earlier than in South Asian countries like India. The astronomical center predicts that the moon will be visible in Saudi Arabia and the UAE on March 18, marking the start of the new month of Shawwal. This would mean Eid Ul Fitr is celebrated on March 19 in these regions. However, if the moon is not sighted on that date, the holiday could be delayed to March 20. In India, where the fast began on February 19, the moon is expected to be visible on March 19, making March 20 the likely date for Eid. However, if the moon is not sighted on March 19, the festival may be postponed to March 21. The Jammu and Kashmir government has already announced a holiday on March 13 for the last Friday of Ramadan, which is known as Jumma-e-Wida. This change in the official holiday schedule suggests that Eid in India is likely to fall on March 20. Saudi Arabia has declared a four-day holiday for Eid Ul Fitr, starting on March 18, which aligns with the expected date of the festival. The government has also announced that public and private sector employees will receive time off for the occasion.#india #united_arab_emirates #saudi_arabia #jammu_and_kashmir #international_astronomical_center

Over 11.6 lakh farmer applications enrolled under PMFBY in J&K: Govt More than 11.6 lakh farmer applications have been registered under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) in Jammu and Kashmir, according to government data. The scheme, which provides insurance coverage for crop losses, has seen significant participation from farmers in the region. The initiative aims to protect agricultural produce against natural calamities, pests, and diseases, ensuring financial stability for farmers. Under the PMFBY, farmers are required to pay a low premium rate, with the cost shared between the central government and state governments. For Kharif crops, the premium is up to 2 per cent of the sum insured, while Rabi crops carry a rate of up to 1.5 per cent. Commercial and horticultural crops, however, have a higher premium of up to 5 per cent. The remaining actuarial premium is typically divided equally between the Centre and states. In Jammu and Kashmir, however, the ratio is adjusted to 90:10 in favor of the central government, reflecting the unique financial arrangements for the region. The scheme’s structure is designed to reduce the financial burden on farmers while ensuring adequate coverage. The central government’s higher contribution in J&K underscores the need for additional support in the region, where agricultural challenges are often more pronounced. The government has emphasized that the PMFBY plays a critical role in safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers, particularly in areas prone to climate-related risks. In response to questions about the implementation of the scheme, a senior official highlighted that land and agriculture fall under the purview of state governments as per the Constitution.#central_government #state_governments #jammu_and_kashmir #pradhan_mantri_fasal_bima_yojana #pradhan_mantri_krishi_sinchayee_yojana

Rains and snowfall persist in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh for a second consecutive day Light rains continued to affect the plains of Kashmir, while snowfall was reported in parts of Ladakh on Wednesday. The meteorological department (MeT) has issued forecasts indicating that erratic weather conditions are expected to persist in the region until March 19. The ongoing precipitation has led to challenging travel conditions and disruptions in daily activities across the union territory. The weather patterns have been unusually persistent, with the second day of rainfall and snowfall causing concern among residents and authorities. Officials have advised people to remain cautious due to the potential for further weather fluctuations. The MeT has warned that the region may experience additional rainfall and snowfall in the coming days, which could impact infrastructure and transportation networks. The situation has prompted local authorities to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that emergency services are prepared to respond to any incidents caused by the weather. Schools and government offices in some areas have been advised to remain open, but contingency plans are in place to address any disruptions. Residents in the affected areas have expressed frustration over the prolonged weather conditions, which have disrupted routines and caused logistical challenges. The unpredictable weather has also raised concerns about the safety of roadways, with several stretches in Kashmir and Ladakh experiencing reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions. The MeT’s forecast highlights the ongoing instability in the region’s climate, which has been a recurring issue in recent months. While the exact duration of the weather anomalies remains uncertain, the department has emphasized the need for vigilance and preparedness among the public.#meteorological_department #jammu_and_kashmir #kashmir #ladakh

Jammu and Kashmir Weather Today: Rain and snowfall likely, IMD issues advisory Jammu and Kashmir is expected to experience rain and snowfall today, marking a shift from several days of unusually warm weather. The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued an alert, warning that higher elevations in Kashmir will see snowfall while plains will receive rain. Farmers are advised to pause agricultural activities, and high winds are anticipated. A dry spell is expected to follow the unsettled weather before another system arrives. The region has endured a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures significantly above seasonal averages. Until recently, the deviation from normal temperatures reached nearly 10 degrees. This unusual warmth has prompted officials to issue warnings about potential disruptions on mountain roads due to fresh snowfall. The weather forecast indicates cloudy skies across the Union Territory, with light to moderate rain likely in many areas. Snowfall is expected in higher reaches of north and central Kashmir. Fresh snow may impact travel on high-altitude roads and mountain passes. Farmers have been specifically advised to suspend agricultural work and spraying activities for the next two days due to the expected weather conditions. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 30–40 km per hour may occur on March 11. After the rain and snowfall, a dry spell is predicted from March 12 to 14, with another weather system potentially arriving after this period. Forecasters anticipate unsettled conditions through the third week of March. Light rain or snow is expected on the night of March 15, and further rain and snowfall may occur in several locations from March 17 to 20. Temperature readings from Tuesday highlight the unusual warmth: Jammu recorded a maximum of 31.2°C, 5.#srinagar #gulmarg #jammu_and_kashmir #indian_meteorological_department #kashmir_valley

Deficient Winter Rains Trigger Early Summer in India Deficient winter rains in India have led to an early onset of summer and heatwave conditions, disrupting the country’s typical seasonal patterns. The lack of rainfall, combined with weak Western Disturbances and dry soil, has accelerated temperature rises, creating unusually warm weather across the nation. This phenomenon has raised concerns about its impact on agriculture, water resources, and the overall climate system. The early heatwave conditions are particularly notable in regions such as north and west India, where temperatures have surged well above normal levels. According to recent data, temperatures in these areas were 8–13°C higher than average, meeting the criteria for heatwave conditions. This unusual warmth was observed as early as March, with several regions experiencing abnormally high temperatures that are typically associated with summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted above-normal temperatures for western Himalayan regions, central India, and peninsular India during March, along with an increased number of heatwave days in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. The early heat is linked to the dry winter season, which has significantly reduced soil moisture. Without adequate rainfall, the land heats up more quickly, contributing to the rapid rise in temperatures. Additionally, the absence of wind convergence between westerly and easterly winds has further limited moisture transport to central and northern India. This has been exacerbated by fewer Western Disturbances since November 2025, which are crucial for bringing winter precipitation. February, in particular, was the third driest month since 1901, with all-India rainfall in January–February only 16 mm—about 60% below normal.#india_meteorological_department #uttarakhand #jammu_and_kashmir #himachal_pradesh #western_disturbances

North India Heat to Spike on Sunday, Rain to Hit Eastern and Southern States India is bracing for an early heatwave as temperatures in North India are expected to rise sharply on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that Jammu and Kashmir will experience temperatures 12 degrees Celsius above the normal range, marking a significant deviation from seasonal averages. This surge in heat is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather conditions affecting the region, with the IMD predicting sustained high temperatures across Northwest India in the coming days. The heatwave is anticipated to intensify during the week, with the northern states facing prolonged periods of sweltering heat. Officials have urged residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and using cooling measures to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures. The IMD has also highlighted the potential for heat-related health issues, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. In contrast, the eastern and southern states are forecast to see relief from the heat as light rain is expected to move into these regions on March 8. The rainfall, while not expected to be heavy, could provide temporary respite from the rising temperatures. However, meteorologists caution that the rain may not be sufficient to counteract the overall trend of warming in the region. The IMD has also noted that the monsoon season, which typically brings much-needed rainfall to India, is still several months away, leaving the country vulnerable to prolonged dry spells and heatwaves. The unusual weather pattern has raised concerns among scientists and policymakers, who are monitoring the situation closely.#india #india_meteorological_department #jammu_and_kashmir #northwest_india #monsoon_season

No foreign capital should dictate New Delhi: Farooq Abdullah Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah criticized India’s reliance on foreign influence, particularly the United States, during a recent statement. He emphasized that India, as a sovereign nation, should not seek permission from any external power for its decisions, including energy imports. Abdullah’s remarks followed the U.S. announcement of a 30-day waiver allowing India to import Russian oil amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Abdullah accused the Indian government of prioritizing foreign interests over national autonomy. He referenced former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s concept of “strategic autonomy,” arguing that India must make its own choices for its economic and energy needs. “India will decide what is good for it,” he said, rejecting the notion that the U.S. should dictate India’s policies, particularly regarding energy security. The controversy stems from the U.S. decision to grant a temporary waiver for India to import Russian oil, which has raised questions about the country’s energy independence. Abdullah highlighted the irony of India’s dependence on foreign approval for critical decisions, even as it faces global supply chain challenges. He criticized the government for failing to assert India’s sovereignty, stating, “This country has to decide what is good for it. Nobody else should decide our future.” Opposition leaders, including Abdullah, have questioned why India requires U.S. endorsement for its energy strategies. They argue that such dependence undermines India’s ability to act in its own national interest. Abdullah’s comments reflect broader concerns about foreign policy decisions that prioritize external alliances over domestic priorities, particularly in sectors like energy and defense.#united_states #india #farooq_abdullah #jammu_and_kashmir #manmohan_singh