Vande Bharat Train Inauguration from Katra to Srinagar Postponed

Srinagar, Feb 16 (JKNS): The Vande Bharat train inauguration, scheduled to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, has been postponed.

Official Sources informed news agency JKNS, the Vande Bharat train service from Katra to Srinagar, initially scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, 2025, has been postponed.

Sources further added that earlier, too, there was no official communiqué regarding the inauguration, and the reports circulating were unconfirmed.

Earlier, there were reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the much-awaited Vande Bharat train service from Katra to Srinagar on February 17.

It is important to note that the train service features engineering marvels, including the Anji Khad Bridge, with its 331-meter-high pylon, and the Chenab Bridge, which stands at 359 meters, making it the world’s highest railway bridge, taller than the Eiffel Tower. These structures not only improve connectivity but also highlight India’s advancements in infrastructure and technology, an official said.

The train is designed to operate seamlessly even in harsh winter conditions, withstanding temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius, ensuring uninterrupted services in extreme cold.

Operating on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), the train will complete the 150-kilometer journey between the first and last stations in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Key stops along the route include Reasi and Banihal, an official said. (JKNS)

Ahead of Ramadan, preparations begin in Kashmir markets

Srinagar, Feb 15 (KNO): Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, the shoppers have started placing pre-Ramadan orders in the Valley, keeping the markets abuzz once again.

As the holy month approaches, the demand for the essentials, especially the fasting items has surged across Srinagar and other parts of the valley with the traders struggling to keep up with the rising number of orders.

Pre-orders have already started being placed just thirteen days in advance.

As per the details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), in the bustling markets of Koker Bazar Srinagar, the commercial hub of Lal Chowk, the pre-booking of orders began thirteen days prior and is expected to increase in the coming days, especially within a week before Ramadan.

Shopkeepers are busy attending to a flood of calls from customers eager to secure their supplies for the holy month.

Amidst the crowd, Ajaz Ahmad, a shop owner in Koker Bazar, Lal Chowk, Srinagar, told KNO that the sale of dates gains momentum during Ramadan compared to other months.

“The sale of dates at our shop happens year-round, and we sell almost all types of dates, but in the month of Ramadan, our sales touches sky,” he said. He added, “We are also introducing many new varieties of dates this year, and our bulk order bookings have already started.”

Ajaz said that with approximately 13 days left for Ramadan, he has already started receiving bulk and regular orders.

As Ramadan draws closer, traders and shopkeepers anticipate further increase of demand in the coming days—(KNO)

All 22 Students to Sit for Exams, Action Against Those Who played with future of Students: Edu Minister Sakina Masood

Srinagar, Feb 15 (JKNS): Education Minister Sakina Masood Itoo has assured that all 22 students of Islamic Global School will be allowed to appear in the 10th board exams and warned of strict action against those responsible for jeopardizing their future.

Taking to X, the minister posted: “I am closely & seriously watching the issue for the last 3 days. The future of the 22 students of Class 10th shall be secured. Action against those who have played with the future of these students shall be taken. Will ensure that these students are allowed to appear in the exams.”

Her statement comes amid growing outrage over JKBOSE withholding the students’ admit cards despite clear directives from the High Court and the Chief Minister’s office. Parents and school authorities have been protesting, fearing the delay could cost the students their academic year.

The minister’s assurance has brought relief to the affected students, while she has also signaled strict action against officials involved in the delay.

With exams set to begin on Monday, authorities are now expected to act swiftly to implement the minister’s directive. (JKNS)

LG terminates 3 employees on charges of their involvement in terror-related cases

Srinagar, Feb 15 (KNO): Jammu & Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday ordered termination of 3 J&K government employees.

Sources told news agency—Kashmir News Observer that three employees— Firdous Ahmad Bhat (police constable), Mohammad Ashraf Bhat (teacher) and Nisar Ahmad Khan (orderly in Forest Department) have been terminated under proviso (c) of sub-section of Article 311 of the Constitution of India—(KNO)

Need a fresh look at teaching-mentoring system for ‘Viksit Bharat’: J&K LG Manoj Sinha

Katra (J&K), Feb 15 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said Saturday a fresh look is needed at the teaching-mentoring system to seize future opportunities in science and technology for ‘Viksit Bharat’.

He said skills and knowledge must contribute towards improving the lives of people.

“To seize future opportunities in science and technology, we need to take a fresh look at our teaching-mentoring system because it will have a direct bearing on the journey of Viksit Bharat,” Sinha said, addressing the 10th convocation ceremony of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) here.

He asked the teaching community to focus on harnessing the capacity of students and transform the educational institutions into the most potent instrument to build a prosperous India.

“It is the responsibility of our teachers and educational institutions to initiate innovative educational programmes and nurture curiosity, promote critical thinking, creativity and innovation. Teachers should share their own life experience to inspire students,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar for being among the graduating SMVDU students and said “today’s moment will remain etched in students’ memories for a lifetime”.

He called upon the youths to carry forward the country’s development and make it the world.largest economy of the

“The strength of our nation will be determined by the values, innovation and knowledge and I strongly believe the young men and women graduating in this ‘Amrit Kaal’ will shape the destiny of our nation. Those stepping out today into the real world have a unique opportunity of nation building,” the Lt Governor said.

He said the advances in humanities, arts, science and technology have opened new areas of opportunities and the knowledge and learning of the graduating students will help them achieve success.

“Today our youth are equipped with special knowledge and skills that can be properly utilised to transform rural areas. This mission calls for dedication and determination. Above all, our youth needs to be rooted in ancient culture and must have faith in their abilities and wisdom of our culture,” he said.

Extending his best wishes for a productive and a bright future to all the graduating students, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in his address asked the students to seek success but never compromise on values.

“Give back to society, because true success is in service,” he said, adding success is not just about achieving milestones, it is also about how you overcome challenges, stay true to own principles and uplift others along the way.

“Mata Vaishno Devi’s journey to the Thakuta Hills symbolises patience, courage and righteousness, values that each of you should carry as you step into the next phase of your life.

“You are entering a world that is rapidly evolving, a world of artificial intelligence, climate change, startups and global competition. Your degree is not just a piece of paper, it is your key to making a difference. India and the world need ethical, compassionate and responsible leaders,” he said.

Abdullah said the journey ahead will not always be easy. “There will be setbacks, failures and moments of self-doubt. But remember, failure is not the opposite of success, it is a part of success.”

“Every great leader, scientist or entrepreneur you admire has faced rejection before achieving success. Stay curious, stay humble and embrace change with an open mind. As you step out of these gates, remember, dream big, but work even harder. Stay grounded, but aim for the stars,” he said.(PTI)

J&K’s Budget for 2025-26 to be Unveiled in Assembly on March 7

LG to Address House on March 3; 12-Day Long Recess After Approval of Budget; 2 Days Earmarked for Private Member Resolutions

Srinagar, Feb 14 (KNO): After a gap of seven years, Jammu & Kashmir’s annual budget will be presented in the Legislative Assembly on March 7. According to the tentative calendar issued by the Legislative Assembly secretariat, a copy of which is in possession of the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the budget for the Union Territory for 2025-26 will be presented in the Assembly on March 7 during the session commencing from March 3 and culminating on April 11.

The annual financial statement of expenditure for 2025-26 and the supplementary statement of expenditure for 2024-25 will be presented in the House on March 7. This will be the first time in seven years that the budget of J&K will be presented in the Assembly. Following the imposition of central rule, the budget for successive financial years was presented in the Parliament.

The budget session will have a total of 22 sittings. According to the calendar, the session will commence on March 3 with the LG’s address to the House. There will be discussions on the LG’s address on March 4, 5, and 6, concluding with the Chief Minister’s reply on March 6.

As per the calendar, there will be general discussions on the budget on March 8, 10, and 11. The Finance Minister, who is also the Chief Minister, will conclude the general discussion on the budget on March 11 with his reply.

According to the timetable worked out by the LA secretariat, demands for grants will be discussed on March 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, and 24. After the demands for grants, the budget will be approved on March 25, with the passage of Appropriation Bills. The Legislative Assembly will go on recess for 12 days after the budget is approved.

The second part of the budget session will begin on March 7, which has been earmarked for private members’ resolutions. The House will take up private member bills on March 8 and private member resolutions again on March 9. As per the calendar, government business will be taken up on March 11—(KNO)