#jammu_and_kashmir

MeT forecasts rain, storms across J&K; flash flood, mudslide risk looms The Meteorological Centre Srinagar issued warnings of rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the risk of flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable regions. The forecast spans multiple days, with the weather department advising caution due to the potential for lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds. Temperatures in the region remained above normal, with Srinagar recording 31.5°C and Jammu hitting 41.8°C, both significantly higher than seasonal averages. The Valley and Jammu areas have experienced intermittent rainfall in recent days, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid outdoor activities and stay clear of unstable structures during adverse weather. On Friday, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar predicted light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds for the coming days, with isolated areas facing flash floods and mudslides. The department emphasized that weather conditions on June 12 would remain partly to generally cloudy, with light to moderate rain and brief intense showers expected at several locations. Thunderstorms, lightning, and winds reaching 40-50 kmph, with gusts up to 60 kmph, were also flagged as possible. For the period from June 13 to June 17, the forecast maintained partly cloudy skies with light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds at scattered spots. Similar conditions were expected on June 18 and 19. The advisory stressed the need for vigilance, as thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds could occur during the day. The department warned that brief intense showers in isolated areas of both Kashmir and Jammu divisions could trigger flash floods and mudslides.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #kashmir #jammu #meteorological_centre_srinagar

Jammu and Kashmir Braces for Rain and Storms Amid Heatwave The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has issued forecasts indicating that the region will experience a dramatic shift in weather patterns as a heatwave grips Jammu and Kashmir. While hot and dry conditions are expected to persist on Thursday, the department warned that rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds will sweep across the area starting from Friday. This transition comes as temperatures have surged to unprecedented levels over the past several days, with heatwave-like conditions anticipated to intensify around mid-June. According to the latest weather outlook, June 12 is projected to bring some relief, with generally cloudy skies and intermittent light to moderate rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. Wind speeds are expected to reach 40-50 kmph, with gusts potentially exceeding 60 kmph in parts of both south and north Kashmir. The advisory highlights the potential for severe weather events, including hailstorms and lightning, which could pose risks to infrastructure and public safety. From June 13 to June 17, the weather is likely to remain partly to generally cloudy, with scattered locations experiencing light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The Meteorological Centre has also issued a warning about the possibility of thundershowers, lightning, and hailstorms occurring in isolated to scattered areas during the evenings of June 11 and 12. These conditions are expected to create challenges for residents, particularly in the wake of prolonged dry spells. Authorities have raised concerns about the potential for flash floods and mudslides, especially in isolated areas of both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions, between June 11 and 14.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #kashmir #jammu #metropolitan_department

India Condemns Pakistan's Statements on Jammu and Kashmir, Criticizes EU Involvement India has strongly condemned Pakistan's recent statements regarding Jammu and Kashmir, labeling them as unacceptable and emphasizing that the region is an integral part of its territory. The Indian government's response came in reaction to a joint statement issued by Pakistan and the European Union, which referenced both the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the status of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. India's foreign ministry spokesperson, Randeep Jaiswal, stated that such remarks are irrelevant and that the issue of Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter for India. He reiterated that no third party, including the EU, should interfere in India's internal affairs. The joint statement by Pakistan and the EU, released after a bilateral meeting in Islamabad, included references to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan had previously raised the Kashmir issue in international forums, often framing it as a matter of human rights and self-determination. India, however, has consistently rejected such claims, asserting that the region is an inseparable part of its territory. Jaiswal emphasized that India's position on the matter has remained unchanged, and any attempt to internationalize the issue is unwarranted. India's stance was further reinforced by its criticism of the EU's involvement in the matter. The Indian government has long opposed any external interference in its territorial disputes, and this incident is part of a broader pattern of diplomatic friction with Pakistan. Earlier this year, India had also rebuked Pakistan for raising the Kashmir issue in a joint statement with China, accusing it of undermining India's sovereignty.#pakistan #india #jammu_and_kashmir #eu #randeep_jaiswal

Snowfall and Rain Bring Relief to Kashmir Amid Heatwave Conditions In the early hours of Thursday, May 21, 2026, parts of the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall, while the plains were hit by heavy rain, leading to a drop in temperatures. Officials reported that the Gurez sector in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, Zojilla Pass on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, and areas like Sonamarg were blanketed in snow. Several other peaks in the valley also received snow, transforming them into white-covered landscapes. Meanwhile, the plains, including the summer capital of Srinagar, faced intermittent rainfall that disrupted daily activities. The weather conditions marked a shift from the prolonged heatwave that had gripped the region. Officials noted that the heavy rainfall, which began late on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, caused significant damage. A road in Bandipora district was severely affected, with water and mud seeping into nearby homes. The downpours also triggered waterlogging and mudflows, further complicating movement in the area. The sudden change in weather provided temporary relief from the sweltering temperatures that had plagued Kashmir for weeks. The Meteorological Department issued a forecast indicating that the region could experience light rain and thundershowers, accompanied by gusty winds and hailstorms, over the next two days. The weather was expected to remain generally dry during the forenoon hours, with brief showers likely to occur in the late afternoon at isolated and scattered locations until May 25. This forecast suggested that the region would continue to see fluctuating weather patterns, with the potential for further disruptions.#srinagar #meteorological_department #jammu_and_kashmir #bandipora_district #zojilla_pass

Bank Holidays in India: RBI Schedule and Additional Observances for Eid-ul-Adha and SBI Strike Banks across India will remain closed on Saturday, May 23, as part of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) standard schedule, which designates the second and fourth Saturdays of each month as non-business days. This closure aligns with the broader calendar of bank holidays for the month, which also includes all Sundays from May 3 to May 31. Additional days off are scheduled for May 9, the second Saturday, and May 24, the fourth Saturday, further shaping the timeline for financial services. The month’s holiday calendar also incorporates religious and regional observances. Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakrid, will be celebrated on May 27, with some states granting an extra day off to mark the occasion. However, Jammu and Kashmir will observe the holiday on May 28, reflecting local variations in the calendar. These additional days off may impact customer access to banking services, particularly for those planning to conduct transactions during the festive period. A planned strike by State Bank of India (SBI) staff is expected to cause disruptions on May 25 and 26. The strike, which is tied to ongoing discussions over recruitment policies and job-related concerns, may affect operations at SBI branches. While the exact scope of the strike’s impact remains unspecified, customers are advised to plan ahead and consider alternative methods for managing their financial needs. Despite the closures and potential disruptions, digital banking services, including Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions and ATM access, will remain operational. Customers are encouraged to verify the holiday schedule and adjust their plans accordingly to avoid inconvenience.#jammu_and_kashmir #reserve_bank_of_india #state_bank_of_india #unified_payments_interface #eid_ul_adha

SBI Branches to Remain Closed for Six Days from May 23 to 28, 2026 The State Bank of India (SBI) has announced that its branches will remain closed for six consecutive days from May 23 to May 28, 2026. This closure is attributed to a combination of factors including weekends, a planned two-day strike by employees, and the observance of Eid al-Adha (Bakrid) holidays. Customers are advised to complete essential banking transactions before the closure period, as physical branch operations will be suspended during these dates. The closure schedule begins on May 23, which falls on a Saturday, and extends through May 28. The weekend closures on May 23 and 24 are standard practice for the bank, as branches typically remain closed on weekends. Additionally, the bank will be closed on May 25 and 26 due to a planned strike by SBI staff. The strike is part of ongoing negotiations between the bank and the All India State Bank Staff Federation (AISBFS), which has raised concerns over issues such as outsourcing policies, pension fund management, and security protocols. The Eid al-Adha holiday will also contribute to the closure period. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, SBI branches in Jammu and Kashmir will remain closed on May 27 and 28 to commemorate the festival. While most branches across India will observe the holiday on May 27, some regions may extend the closure to May 28, depending on local observance practices. Despite the physical branch closures, SBI has confirmed that online banking services, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions, and ATM operations will continue to function as usual. Customers are encouraged to utilize digital platforms for routine banking activities during the closure period.#jammu_and_kashmir #reserve_bank_of_india #state_bank_of_india #eid_al_adha #all_india_state_bank_staff_federation

SBI Bank Strike Holidays 2026 Update; Bakrid Weekend | SBI Services List SBI Bank will experience operational disruptions from May 23 to May 28, 2026, due to a combination of weekends, a planned staff strike, and Bakrid holidays. The bank's branches will be closed during this period, though digital services will remain available. The closure is expected to affect customer transactions, particularly at physical counters. The primary reasons for the closure include: Weekends: May 23 and 24 will be closed as weekends, following the standard practice of banks closing on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Staff Strike: The All India State Bank Staff Federation (AISBISF) has announced a two-day strike on May 25 and 26 (Monday and Tuesday) to protest unresolved demands. This strike will impact services such as check clearing, cash counter operations, and passbook updates. Bakrid Holidays: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has declared Bakrid (Eid-ul-Azha) as a public holiday in most parts of the country. SBI branches will be closed on May 27, with some regions in Jammu and Kashmir observing the holiday on both May 27 and 28. The strike, organized by the AISBISF, is linked to 16 unresolved demands from staff, including better working conditions and protection of employee rights. The union claims the strike is necessary to safeguard customer interests and improve operational efficiency. During the closure, digital services such as online banking, mobile apps, and internet-based transactions will remain functional. However, physical branch operations will be suspended, affecting customers who rely on in-person services. The bank has not provided specific details on alternative arrangements for affected customers.#jammu_and_kashmir #reserve_bank_of_india #sbi_bank #all_india_state_bank_staff_federation #bakrid_holiday

Jammu News: Locals Lock Power Station After Outage Residents of Arniya, a town in Jammu and Kashmir, took matters into their own hands after prolonged power cuts left them frustrated. On Wednesday, villagers surrounded the local receiving station and locked it, demanding immediate action from the power department. The protest escalated as staff and locals clashed, with villagers accusing officials of negligence. They vowed to keep the station locked until the department resolved their complaints. The incident followed weeks of recurring power outages, particularly affecting the second feeder line, which has been plagued by frequent disruptions. While the first feeder line operates normally, the second line’s issues have left residents struggling with daily life. Locals claim that despite repeated technical faults reported by lineman, the department has failed to address the root cause. "The staff is being careless and delaying repairs," said a villager, highlighting the growing frustration. Following the protest, local MLA Rajiv Bhagat intervened, urging power officials to restore electricity immediately. His call led to the deployment of approximately 10 lineman to investigate the fault. By late evening, power was restored, prompting villagers to unlock the station. However, the incident underscored deeper concerns about the department’s responsiveness. Residents like Sonu Pandit emphasized the impact of the outages, noting that families are suffering due to lack of electricity. "Even at night, children and elders are unable to cope with the heat," he said. Others, like Pravin Saini, accused the department of collecting bills on time but failing to deliver consistent power supply. They pointed to the overloaded second feeder line as a key issue, blaming poor infrastructure for the recurring outages.#jammu_and_kashmir #arniya #rajiv_bhagat #sonu_pandit #pravin_saini

The text discusses government initiatives in several Indian states to provide free bus travel for women, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of these policies. Here's a structured summary: --- Key Initiatives and States Involved Tamil Nadu "Pink Ticket" System: Women can travel for free on state-run buses. Economic Impact: Women save up to ₹2,500 monthly, enabling access to remote job opportunities. Safety and Mobility: Increased female presence in public transport improves safety and mobility. Telangana "Zero Fare Ticket": Women travel for free on TSRTC buses. Subsidy Model: The state uses a combination of increased subsidies and budget allocations to fund the scheme. Karnataka "Zero Fare Tickets": Women travel for free on KARTI buses. Financial Management: The state covers operational costs (fuel, pensions) through subsidies, offsetting losses from free travel. West Bengal "Zero Fare Ticket": Effective from June 2026, women will travel for free on state buses. Jammu and Kashmir Smart City E-Buses and JKRRTC Buses: Women enjoy free travel, enhancing safety and mobility. Other States Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh: Similar schemes are in place or under consideration. --- Benefits of the Policies Economic Relief: Women save on transportation costs, reducing household expenses. Empowerment: Encourages women to access education, employment, and social opportunities. Safety: Increased female presence in public transport improves safety and reduces harassment. Social Inclusion: Promotes gender equality and accessibility in public spaces. --- Challenges and Concerns Financial Strain on Transport Corporations Revenue Loss: Free travel leads to reduced fares, straining public transport budgets. Subsidy Dependency: States rely on increased subsidies and budget allocations to sustain the schemes.#karnataka #west_bengal #jammu_and_kashmir #telangana #tamil_nadu

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Launches India Golf Carnival 2026 at Royal Springs Golf Course Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah inaugurated the India Golf Carnival 2026 at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar on Sunday, May 10, with over 100 golfers participating in the event. Among them, more than 30 players from Jammu and Kashmir joined the tourism-linked sporting event, marking a significant step in promoting the region’s golfing heritage. The ceremony highlighted the government’s efforts to position Kashmir as a premier destination for golf tourism and to foster local participation in the sport. Speaking at the event, Abdullah emphasized Kashmir’s longstanding connection to golf, noting that the region boasts some of the finest golf courses in the country, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. He stated that the tournament aims to encourage local golfers, promote tourism through these facilities, and inspire a new generation of young athletes in the region. “We are trying to use these courses for tourism promotion as well,” he said, underscoring the dual purpose of the event. Abdullah also highlighted the growing interest in golf tourism in Kashmir, pointing out that many golfers from outside the Valley have started visiting Srinagar for long weekends, particularly during holidays in North India. He expressed optimism that such visits would benefit the local tourism sector. “There is hope that it will definitely benefit tourism,” he added, noting the potential for increased visitor numbers and economic activity. The Chief Minister further mentioned plans to expand the initiative, with a group of young golfers expected to visit Pahalgam in the coming weeks.#jammu_and_kashmir #royal_springs_golf_course #chief_minister_omar_abdullah #india_golf_carnival_2026 #gulmarg_golf_course

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Highlights Golf's Role in Tourism and Youth Development Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized the potential of the region’s renowned golf courses to boost tourism and cultivate young talent in the state. Speaking at the inauguration of a golf tournament at the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar on Sunday, Abdullah highlighted the strategic importance of golf as both a recreational activity and a platform for nurturing local athletes. Abdullah noted that Kashmir’s golf courses, including those in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, are among the finest in India. He praised the natural beauty of these locations, which he described as ideal for attracting both domestic and international golf enthusiasts. “If we talk about the most beautiful golf courses in India, then Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam easily rank among the top,” he stated. The Chief Minister outlined the government’s dual focus on promoting golf tourism and providing training opportunities for local players. He explained that the initiative aims to create a new generation of golfers in Kashmir while leveraging the region’s world-class facilities to draw tourists. “Our focus is to train local golfers and use these world-class courses to attract tourists. Through such tournaments, we want to build a new generation of golfers in Kashmir,” Abdullah said. According to Abdullah, the tournament attracted over 100 participants, including golfers from across India and abroad. He observed a growing trend of North Indian golfers choosing Srinagar for weekend getaways, drawn by the scenic surroundings and high-quality courses. “I hope this growing interest will benefit tourism in the Valley,” he added.#srinagar #gulmarg #jammu_and_kashmir #omar_abdullah #royal_springs_golf_course

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