Srinagar, June 3: The police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar on Wednesday welcomed the CAPF companies deployed by the Central government for duties during the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026.

As part of the comprehensive security and facilitation arrangements for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, Srinagar Police extended a warm welcome to the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) companies arriving in the city for Yatra duties.

The arriving CAPF personnel were received by officers of Srinagar Police, reflecting the strong spirit of coordination, cooperation, and mutual support that forms the backbone of the Yatra security framework.

To ensure the comfort and operational readiness of the deployed forces, Srinagar Police have made elaborate arrangements, including accommodation, boarding and lodging, transportation, medical support, communication facilities, and other essential logistics.

The CAPF officers and personnel appreciated the warm reception and the meticulous arrangements made by Srinagar Police for their stay and deployment. They commended the professionalism, proactive planning, and seamless coordination demonstrated by the district police in facilitating their induction.

The interaction further reinforced the close synergy between Srinagar Police and CAPFs, aimed at ensuring a robust security grid and the smooth, safe, and peaceful conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.

Srinagar Police remain fully committed to working in close coordination with all stakeholder agencies to ensure the successful and secure conduct of the annual pilgrimage, said officials.

This year’s 57-day-long Shri Amarnath Yatra begins on July 3 and will end on August 28, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima and the Raksha Bandhan festivals.

Situated at 8880 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, the cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe the ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

Yatris approach the cave shrine either through the traditional longer Pahalgam route in Anantnag district or through the shorter Baltal route in Ganderbal district. Helicopter services are also available for the Yatris from both routes.

Srinagar: Taking everyone by surprise, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah along with MLAs from the National Conference and independent legislators supporting the government rushed to Dachigam on Wednesday morning to hold a meeting that lasted more than seven hours to review the performance of the 19-month-old government headed by him.

In the invitation letter sent to MLAs on May 30, Gupkar was scheduled to be the venue of the meeting. However, as per details, the MLAs of NC as well as independents supporting the government first converged at the CM’s Public Services & Outreach Office, Raabita, on Gupkar Road adjacent to his house, before being taken to Dachigam.

The MLAs were asked to enter the CM’s residence where three vehicles had been kept ready in advance. When media personnel saw MLAs coming out of the CM’s residence, they were taken by surprise about the destination of the meeting.

At 10:38 AM, in a post on X, CM Omar Abdullah said they were heading for an off-site to spend the day reviewing the last 19 months of his government.

“We are off for an off-site to spend the day taking stock of the last 19 months-the good, the not so good, and everything in between,” Omar wrote in his post.

Adding to the curiosity, NC MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri posted on X seven minutes later that they had crossed Shalimar and were heading to an unknown destination. Interestingly, both Veeri and the CM were travelling in the same vehicle.

At around 11:00 AM, they reached Dachigam National Park and headed to the guest house commonly known as Indira Guest House-the place where former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi used to stay.

The meeting was held in the lawns of the guest house, with MLAs as well as ministers keeping their phones switched off. (KNO)

Govt sanctions maiden Int’l Film Festival

SRINAGAR, JUNE 03: In a landmark initiative aimed at positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant destination for cinema, culture and creative industries, the Government has accorded sanction for the organisation of the 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), scheduled to be held at SKICC Srinagar and other prominent destinations from September 7 to 11, 2026.

The prestigious international event will be organised by the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The festival is envisioned as a major platform to showcase cinematic excellence, promote cultural exchange and highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s immense potential as a preferred destination for film production and tourism.

The International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir will bring together filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, industry experts, critics and cinema enthusiasts from across India and abroad. The event is expected to feature screenings of acclaimed national and international films, panel discussions, master classes, interactive sessions, cultural programmes and networking opportunities for stakeholders from the film and entertainment sector.

The festival is also expected to provide significant exposure to local talent, encourage emerging filmmakers, and create avenues for collaboration between the regional film fraternity and the global cinema industry. Through this initiative, the Government aims to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s growing reputation as a hub for filmmaking and creative expression

The maiden edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir is expected to mark a significant milestone in the Union Territory’s cultural calendar and contribute substantially to the promotion of tourism, creative industries, youth engagement and economic activity associated with the film sector.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 3: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday flagged off a Cyclothon at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) here to mark World Bicycle Day, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting fitness, healthy lifestyles and sports culture among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

The event, organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council under its flagship initiative “My Youth My Pride”, witnessed enthusiastic participation from cyclists, youth, students and sports enthusiasts from different parts of the Valley.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister launched the mascot, jersey and publicity campaign for the forthcoming Jammu Cyclothon and announced the dates for the event. He also announced the conduct of the Kashmir Cyclothon as a national-level event, aimed at attracting participation from cyclists across the country and promoting Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for adventure and sporting activities.

Interacting with the participants, the Chief Minister appreciated the growing interest in cycling and emphasized the importance of adopting active lifestyles to ensure better physical and mental well-being. He highlighted cycling as an environmentally sustainable mode of transport that contributes to public health while supporting efforts towards environmental conservation.

The Chief Minister also lauded the initiatives being undertaken by the Youth Services & Sports Department and the J&K Sports Council to encourage mass participation in sports and recreational activities. He said such events not only promote fitness but also strengthen community engagement and create awareness about important social issues.

The cyclothon carried the message of combating sedentary lifestyles, drug abuse and excessive screen time among youth, while promoting the spirit of fitness and sports. The event echoed the theme: “Say No to Drugs, No to Screen Addiction and Yes to Fitness & Sport.”

Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services & Sports Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary RSGC Haris Ahmed Handoo, Secretary J&K Sports Council Nuzhat Gul and other senior officers were present on the occasion.

The cycling awareness ride commenced from RSGC and proceeded towards Duck Park on Foreshore Road, covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometres.

A large number of participants from different age groups took part in the event, which passed through designated routes in the city.

New Delhi, June 3: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday urged young people to make cycling a part of their daily lives, saying the habit promotes health, fitness and environmental sustainability, as World Bicycle Day was marked with cyclothons and awareness events across the country.

In a post on X, Mandaviya made a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to adopt cycling beyond a one-day celebration.

In a video message, he said, “Cycling is not just an exercise for a day or a hobby; it reflects a healthy lifestyle. It helps keep us healthy and ensures both our mental and physical well-being. Cycling is also a sustainable option that supports environmental conservation. By adopting cycling as a habit, we can contribute to fuel conservation, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to save fuel.”

In Gujarat’s Rajkot, the Rajkot Cycle Club (RCC) organised a cycling event to promote fitness, healthy living and environmental awareness.

One participant shared how cycling helped him overcome personal challenges. “I have been cycling for the past seven years. I started cycling during a difficult period when I was struggling with depression after my father’s passing. I was deeply affected by the trauma, but then I met a group of cycling friends…” he said.

Another cyclist highlighted the benefits of cycling in daily life. “I have been cycling for the past 15 years… I keep my bicycle at my office and use it for short trips and small errands instead of a car…” he said.

17 foreign nationals among victims

New Delhi, June 3: The Delhi Police have confirmed that of the 21 people who lost their lives in a fire incident that broke out at the multi-storied Lemon Green Restaurant in Malviya Nagar on Wednesday morning, 17 are foreign nationals.

Most of the deceased are from Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique and Bangladesh, officials said.

Earlier, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) (South Delhi) Jitender Kumar said that 21 people have lost their lives in the blaze.

He said that of the 47 rescued, 26 people are currently undergoing treatment.

“Our search and rescue operation was completed at 12:12 p.m. A total of 47 people were rescued, of which 21 have died, and 26 are undergoing treatment,” SDM Kumar added.

According to the information shared by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi, the hospital had received 13 patients.

It mentioned that three of the patients suffered injuries after falling from a height. They had reportedly jumped to save themselves.

The AIIMS Delhi Trauma Centre also said that 10 of the patients are Delhi Police personnel, who were among the first to enter the building to save lives.

The hospital also said that three bodies have been shifted to the Burns and Plastic Surgery Department.

Meanwhile, condolences poured in from across the political spectrum.

Expressing distress over the tragic incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased.

Taking to his official X account, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said: “My heart is deeply grieved by the fire incident in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar. The local administration is engaged in relief and rescue operations.”

“My condolences are with those who have lost their loved ones in this heart-wrenching tragedy. May God grant strength to the bereaved families to bear this sorrow. The injured are being provided with the best medical facilities. I pray for the swift recovery of all the injured,” he added.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi called the incident “extremely heartbreaking”.

In a post on X, he said: “I express my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families. I urge all Congress workers to contribute in every possible way to the relief and rescue operations.”

AAP Convener Arvind Kejriwal also prayed for the peace of the souls of those who lost their lives in the horrific fire.

“The continuous fire incidents in Delhi and the deaths of innocent people are extremely concerning,” he wrote in a post on X.

CS reviews transition from MGNREGA

SRINAGAR, JUNE 03: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the preparedness of the Rural Development Department and district administrations for the smooth rollout of the Viksit Bharat Gramin Rozgar Abhiyan Mission (VB-G RAM G) across Jammu and Kashmir from July 1, 2026.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the progress achieved by the department in transitioning from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) framework to the newly enacted VB-G RAM G, which was notified by the Government of India on May 11, 2026.

Stressing the importance of meticulous planning and coordinated execution, the Chief Secretary directed the officers to adhere strictly to the timelines prescribed for operationalization of the scheme and ensure that all preparatory activities are completed well before its commencement on July 1, 2026.

He called for expediting all prerequisites, including notification of the scheme in consultation with the Law Department, completion of e-KYC of all eligible workers, and advance planning and approval of works to facilitate a smooth and seamless transition to the new framework.

The Chief Secretary also directed the Directors of Rural Development, Jammu and Kashmir, to take personal responsibility for capacity building and training of all functionaries associated with the implementation of the scheme. He emphasized that every employee at the district, block and Gram Panchayat level should be adequately trained and fully conversant with the provisions, procedures and technological platforms under VB-G RAM G before its rollout.

During the meeting, the Secretary Rural Development, Aijaz Asad apprisedthat extensive awareness and outreach campaigns have been conducted across all districts, covering all 4,291 Gram Panchayats through special Gram Sabhas, community engagement programmes, social media campaigns and newspaper outreach initiatives.

Reviewing the planning process under the Yuktdhara platform, the Chief Secretary was informed that all 20 districts, 285 blocks and 4,291 Gram Panchayats have been onboarded with 100 percent login creation. Planning activities have commenced in more than 94 percent Gram Panchayats, while over 92 percent have already submitted their plans. Around 3,849 Gram Sabhas have approved development plans and more than 63,000 works have been identified, providing a robust shelf of projects to cater to anticipated labour demand under the new programme.

The meeting was further informed that Jammu and Kashmir has emerged among the top-performing States and Union Territories in e-KYC coverage and face authentication compliance of MGNREGA workers, with all Gram Panchayats achieving full coverage. The Chief Secretary noted that the adoption of technology-driven governance mechanisms under VB-G RAM G, including face authentication, geofencing, AI-enabled analytics and real-time monitoring dashboards, would further strengthen transparency, accountability and service delivery.

Regarding the operational readiness of the new scheme, the meeting was apprised that the draft notification for implementation of VB-G RAM G has been prepared and submitted for approval, while the rules, dedicated accounts, budgetary provisions and integration of financial management systems are being pursued in accordance with timelines prescribed by the Ministry of Rural Development. The categorisation of Gram Panchayats and other preparatory activities are also progressing as scheduled.

The Chief Secretary also called for sustained public outreach and close monitoring at all levels so that the objectives of the flagship rural employment and development initiative are realized effectively across Jammu and Kashmir from day one of its implementation.

Srinagar, June 03: In a significant action aimed at safeguarding public order and security, Police in Baramulla executed a detention warrant under the provisions of the Jammu & Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA), 1978, against Haseena Begum, wife of Mohammad Yousuf Bhat, resident of Sheeri, Tehsil Narvaw, District Baramulla.

The detention order was issued by the District Magistrate, Baramulla vide Order No. 07/DMB/PSA/2026 dated 30.05.2026 after a detailed assessment of her involvement in activities prejudicial to the security of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

The detenue has been found involved in multiple criminal cases registered under various provisions of law, including offences related to unlawful and anti-national activities. These include FIR No. 281/2019 U/S 13 ULAP & 153-A & 506 RPC of PS Handwara, FIR No. 58/2021 U/S 426 IPC, 4 PDPP Act & section 3 of Sabotage Act of PS Handwara, FIR No. 151/2021 U/S 13,23,39 ULAP, 506 IPC of PS Bandipora and FIR No. 58/2022 U/S 436, 307 IPC of PS Sopore. Investigations in these cases revealed her association with anti-national elements and involvement in activities aimed at disturbing public order and security.

Following the execution of the PSA warrant, the detenue was taken into preventive custody and subsequently lodged in District Jail Bhaderwah under adequate security arrangements.

The action reflects the firm commitment of Baramulla Police to act against individuals involved in activities detrimental to peace, stability, and security. Baramulla Police shall continue to take all necessary legal and preventive measures against such elements to ensure a safe and secure environment for the people of the district.