KUPWARA UPDATES

  Aadil Akbar  Handwara, Aug 5: After remaining pending for nearly a decade, the much-awaited Lower Rajwar Raw Water Main Project in Handwara is nearing completion, with trial testing currently underway. Officials said the project is expected to be commissioned later this week, bringing much-needed relief to around 25,000 residents across 13 villages. The project, being executed by the PHE Division Handwara/Baramulla under the supervision of Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad, involves the laying of a 9-kilometre-long, 200-mm diameter Ductile Iron (DI) Raw Water Main connecting the water source to the filtration plant and service reservoir. Once commissioned, the scheme will ensure an improved and reliable drinking water supply to approximately 25,000 people living in Dudipora, Baki Aker, Baderhar, Budkot, Machipora, Khirman, Nabedzab, Nagranar, Baderkali, Bahadarpora, Gori Aker, Wadipora and Lachipora villages. Officials said the project has entered its final testing phase and wi...

  Aadil Akbar Handwara, Kupwara July 26: Bringing laurels to Jammu and Kashmir, Mahreen Jan of Handwara has won the gold medal in the 70 kg Senior Women Wushu category at the All India Police Games 2026, held in Hyderabad from July 23 to 25. Representing the Border Security Force (BSF) Sports Team, Mahreen delivered an outstanding performance in what was her maiden appearance at the prestigious national event. Having joined the BSF Sports Team only six months ago, she displayed remarkable skill, determination and confidence to emerge victorious and clinch the gold medal. Mahreen has already created history by becoming the first girl from Handwara in Kupwara district to secure a government job under the Sports Quota. She is also the first female athlete from Kashmir to be selected for a Central Armed Police Force (BSF) Sports Team, making her achievement a significant milestone for the region. Her latest success has been widely hailed as a testament to her dedication, discipline and...

  Aadil Akbar  Baramulla, July 27: In a prompt rescue operation amid incessant rainfall, the Indian Army, with the assistance of local residents and civil authorities, safely evacuated 12 members of a family after their house partially collapsed in Barnate village of Boniyar in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Monday. The damaged house belonged to Noor Din, son of Ghulam Qadir, and reportedly caved in during the night following continuous heavy rains that have lashed the area over the past several days. Soon after receiving information about the incident, personnel of the Indian Army's 15 Assam team rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation. Working in close coordination with local residents and the civil administration, the Army successfully evacuated all 12 occupants to a safer location, averting any loss of life. Despite the extensive damage to the residential structure, no injuries or casualties were reported, officials said. Meanwhile, teams from the Revenue...

Srinagar: When most journalists begin their careers in bustling newsrooms, Khursheed Ahmad Shah chose a different path. Hailing from Langate in north Kashmir, he has become the first journalism student from Kashmir to serve with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Centre for Species Survival Asian Elephant. He is currently serving as a Communication Officer, contributing to conservation communication across Asia's elephant corridors. His journey began in the remote villages of Kashmir, where he reported on the everyday struggles of people living at the intersection of climate change, rural development, biodiversity, education and public health. Through his reporting, Shah has documented stories that often remain overlooked, bringing the voices of remote communities into the public conversation. Holding Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Journalism and Mass Communication, Shah has steadily built a reputation for ground reporting rooted in empathy and evidence. His wor...

  AADIL AKBAR  Baramulla, July 1: The successfully organised a three-day volleyball tournament at Higher Secondary School Boniyar in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment, sportsmanship, and community engagement. The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from 12 local teams, including Dewdrops Boniyar, Nowshera Strikers, Uri Star, Nambla Star, and several others. The event provided a vibrant platform for young athletes to showcase their talent while promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition. Over the three days, players displayed remarkable skill, determination, and sportsmanship, drawing strong support from local spectators and creating an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie. The tournament concluded with a grand closing ceremony where winning teams were felicitated with trophies and medals. Dewdrops Boniyar emerged as champions, while Nambla Star secured the runner-up position. Locals said the initiative ...

  Baramulla, June 29: The Indian Army, under its "Wadi-e-Tarjuman" initiative, organised the grand finale of the Inter-School Debate Competition, "Flight of Young Minds," at Thimaya Hall in Baramulla on Monday. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various schools across the district. The finalists debated the contemporary theme, "Is Psychological Integration of Jammu & Kashmir with the Rest of India Already a Reality or Still a Work in Progress?" The competition provided a platform for students to express their views, engage in meaningful discussions, and demonstrate their analytical and public speaking skills on issues related to identity, development, belonging, and national cohesion. Participants presented well-reasoned arguments from both sides of the motion. Those supporting the proposition highlighted the role of improved education, economic opportunities, digital connectivity, infrastructure development, and ...

AADIL AKBAR  Langate, Apr 15: Demonstrating its continued commitment to environmental conservation and community welfare, the Indian Army’s Chakpuran Camp on Tuesday organised a plantation drive at Pokhriwal in Qaziabad area of Langate. The initiative, held as part of the Army’s broader civic responsibility programmes, witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, school children, and officials from the Forest Department. The plantation drive aimed at enhancing the green cover in the area while promoting ecological balance and environmental awareness among the masses. A significant number of saplings were planted during the event, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the region’s ecosystem. What made the initiative particularly noteworthy was the active involvement of school children, whose participation added both energy and meaning to the programme. The event also served as an educational platform, instilling a sense of responsibility and awareness among t...

  Aadil Akbar  Udhampur, August 29: Brigadier Deepak Sajjanhar, SM, Group Commander of NCC Group Headquarters Srinagar, visited the Annual Training Camp of 7 J&K Battalion NCC Kupwara at the Zorawar Training Academy, Udhampur. The camp, which began on August 23 and will conclude on September 1, 2025, holds special significance as it is the first training camp organized by the newly raised battalion. On his arrival, Brigadier Sajjanhar was received by Commanding Officer Colonel Amit Bhardwaj and Administrative Officer Lt Colonel S.S. Misquith. The cadets presented an impressive Guard of Honour, reflecting their discipline and enthusiasm. While addressing the cadets, the Group Commander urged them to focus on preparation for the upcoming Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026. He stressed the importance of excelling in drill, discipline, and cultural activities, encouraging the cadets to aim for higher achievements. During the visit, Brigadier Sajjanhar inspected the accommodation fac...

  AADIL AKBAR  Kupwara In a significant move to strengthen community ties and inspire youth participation in NCC, the Commanding Officer of the 7 Jammu & Kashmir Battalion NCC, Kupwara, paid an official visit to Government Degree College (GDC), Langate & GHSS Langate on April 4, 2025. The visit was aimed at reinforcing the core values of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), including unity discipline, leadership, and service to the nation. Addressing the cadets and students, the Commanding Officer emphasized the importance of youth engagement in national development. "The youth have a vital role in shaping the future of our community and nation," he said. "The NCC provides a platform to build strong leaders, foster unity between citizens and discipline among the cadets." During the interactive session, the Commanding Officer enlightened the audience about the activities and opportunities provided by NCC. He encouraged the cadets to uphold high standards of discip...

  Kupwara, March 30: Abida War, Chairperson of JKSEWWA and President of JKICDSSU, has extended her heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (JKUT) on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. In her message, War conveyed her sincerest wishes for a joyous and blessed Eid, hoping that the occasion brings peace, prosperity, and happiness to all. She emphasized the spiritual significance of Eid, describing it as a divine blessing that follows a month of fasting and devotion during Ramadan. “Eid is a time for unity, celebration, and gratitude. It strengthens the bonds of community, reinforces the values of mutual respect, and reminds us of the importance of sharing happiness and extending kindness, especially to those in need,” War stated. She urged people to embrace the true essence of Eid by fostering compassion and generosity within society. Concluding her message, War expressed hope for a future filled with harmony and progress for the people of JKUT. Thi...

  Dr. Sheikh Jamsheed, a renowned Social and Peace Activist from Kashmir, extends heartfelt Eid greetings to the entire Muslim Ummah. He wishes that this blessed occasion brings joy, unity, and harmony to all. In his message, Dr. Jamsheed prayed for the well-being of the nation, expressing hope that this Eid becomes a source of peace, prosperity, and happiness for everyone. Eid is a time of gratitude and togetherness. Let us celebrate it with kindness and compassion, strengthening the bonds of our community, he said.

  Aadil Akbar  Handwara: The 15th National Voters’ Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Town Hall Handwara today. The event witnessed active participation from students of Government Boys and Girls Higher Secondary School Handwara. Several students delivered speeches emphasizing the importance of voting and democratic participation. The program was presided over by Tehsildar Handwara, Mr. Zeeshan Khan (JKAS), as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Deputy CEO Kupwara, Mr. Manzoor Ahmad, Naib Tehsildar Handwara, Naib Tehsildar Vilgam, and officials from the district administration. In his address, Tehsildar Handwara praised the efforts of the election team for their dedication and hard work during election periods. He highlighted the role of voters in strengthening democracy and encouraged young people to take an active part in the electoral process. On this occasion, Tehsildar Handwara distributed awards and certificates to the best-performing Booth Level...

  Aadil Akbar Kupwara: In a significant effort to enhance the mental health and overall well-being of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, The Art of Living Foundation, under the Vyakti Vikas Kendra Trust and founded by spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, organized a six-day "Stress Management and Training Workshop" at the 127th Battalion Headquarters, Sector Headquarters (SHQ) BSF Kupwara. The workshop saw active participation from 87 personnel, including soldiers, officers, and the Commanding Officer of various units under SHQ BSF Kupwara. Led by senior faculty member Mr. Manjeet Singh, the sessions focused on stress management through scientifically validated techniques such as the internationally renowned "Sudarshan Kriya," along with Pranayama (breathing exercises), yoga, and life skills training. The initiative aimed to equip BSF personnel with effective tools to manage stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional resilience. The sessions addresse...

Handwara, December 30, 2024 – Asif Memorial Paramedical and Vocational Training Institute hosted a press conference today in Handwara to launch its New Year calendar, marking another milestone in its journey of promoting skill-based education in Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Kousar Bakshi, Managing Director of the institute, addressed the gathering, highlighting the organization's achievements and outlining its aspirations for the future. Speaking to the media, Dr. Bakshi underlined the institute’s unwavering commitment to bridging the gap between education and employability. “Our Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc) programs in Medical Laboratory Technology, Radiology, and Hospital Management are tailored to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the healthcare sector,” she said. “This calendar symbolizes our progress and dedication to empowering the youth with career-oriented education.” The event drew educators, students, and community members who commended ...

  Aadil Akbar  Kupwara  The Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri Memorial Volleyball Tournament, organized by the Warnow Volleyball Association with the support of the Indian Army, has become a thrilling celebration in Kupwara. This event, designed to give young players in Lolab Valley a platform to showcase their skills, has united the community like never before. Held twice a year, the tournament rotates between different villages of the valley, promoting sports, unity, and peace. Yesterday’s quarterfinals and semifinals were filled with intense matches, leading to today’s grand finale between the Badibhera Ballers and Wawoora Warriors. In an electrifying clash, the Badibhera Ballers emerged victorious, claiming the championship trophy and a cash prize of ₹5000. The runners-up, Wawoora Warriors, received ₹3000, while the third-place team took home ₹1000, encouraging budding talent. The tournament has brought together spectators of all ages, celebrating not just the sport, but th...

AADIL AKBAR  Srinagar, 07 Nov 2024:  An Ex-Servicemen Rally was organised to mark the occasion and pay homage to the valour and sacrifice of the Brave Soldiers of the Indian Army.  Over 500  Veterans, Veer Naris and dependants gathered in comradrie for the event,  who paid obeisance to the Bravehearts during wreath-laying ceremony at Shalateng War Memorial and recalled the valourous and victorious  moments from the recent Wars with Pakistan. Cultural and Marital Art display were the highlights for the young generation.  The Battle of Shalateng was a crucial engagement that took place on 07 November 1947 during the Indo-Pakistan War, 1947-1948. It was a historic moment in Indian Military history and that of Jammu and Kashmir when the brave soldiers of Indian Army deployed at the Shalateng Plateau, accomplished a remarkable victory with the help of the brave locals, stopped the advance of the Pakistani Raiders towards Srinagar, who were forced to retre...