Sakeena Itoo Accuses Political Parties of Misleading People on Article 370

Srinagar,Mar 4 (KNS): Minister of Education Sakeena Itoo has questioned the shifting political narratives around Article 370, highlighting the need for clarity on the difference between “special status” and the constitutional provision itself.

Speaking on the issue, Itoo remarked, The question is about the special status of 370.

When we talk about the National Conference, when the party was not in power, they said that 370 would not remain.

But when the National Conference came to power, this was changed to special status. Now, let the world know what is the difference between the special status of 370 and 370 itself.

She also accused certain political groups of misleading the people, stating that the National Conference’s stance on Article 370 changed over time.

Highlighting the resolutions passed in the assembly, she noted that some forces were unhappy with the decisions taken.

The NCR has said that they will try to pass the resolution that we have passed in the assembly, whether it is the resolution of the state or Article 370. These people are not happy with it.

They want to follow their own ways,” she said.

Holding political entities responsible for instability in Jammu and Kashmir, Itoo asserted, “If there is any responsibility for the destruction in J&K, these are the people.

Please check the records She further questioned past actions in the assembly, asking, What were the people saying in the last assembly.

What were the losses and damages we have caused? Is there any responsibility for that? I am not even free to say.” (KNS)

No Creation/Upgradation of Health Centers Planned: J&K Govt

For Every 3500 Souls, J&K Has a Health Institution

Srinagar, Mar 04 (KNO): The Jammu & Kashmir Government informed the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday that J&K has a health institution for every 3,500 souls, compared to the national average of 6,000 souls.

In a written reply to an unstarred question by MLA Reyaz Ahmed Khan, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Minister in-charge of Health & Medical Education, Sakeena Masood Itto, informed the House that according to a report published by the Union Ministry of Health & Medical Education, J&K has a health institution for every 3,500 souls, significantly better than the national average of 6,000 souls.

The Minister also informed the House that there are currently 554 New Type Primary Health Centers (NTPHCs) in Jammu and Kashmir. She added that 523 out of these 554 NTPHCs have been converted into Health & Wellness Centers under a flagship scheme launched by the Government of India.

The Minister stated that no future creation or upgradation of health centers is planned at the moment.

However, this might be reconsidered once the austerity measures imposed by the Finance Department are withdrawn, and any critical gaps as per the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) are assessed—(KNO)

Ramadan: CM Omar calls for market checking to curb overpricing, ensure quality food

Asks DCs to maintain strict vigil on individuals, organizations collecting donations

Srinagar, Mar 03: The government has passed strict directions to the enforcement agencies, asking them to ensure no overpricing of the essentials in the markets during the month of Ramadan.

As per the record note, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), of the meeting held under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on March 1, the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) and other allied departments have been asked to conduct market checking for ensuring proper display of rate lists by the traders/shopkeepers.

The direction was passed to ensure that there is no unfair practice and ensuring appropriate strict action under law against delinquent shopkeepers or traders.

The departments have asked to ensure availability of essential commodities viz; rice, atta, sugar, LPG etc., besides, fair pricing of essential commodities and conducting of intensive market checking to curb the menace of hoarding, black marketing and illegal profiteering.

Further, the Agriculture Production Department has been asked to ensure availability of poultry, sheep, fish, vegetables etc.

Also, the Chief Minister has directed for effective public service delivery, control of over pricing and ensuring quality of essential commodities and products, random market checking to ensure that instances of overcharging are fully checked and standard and purity of the products sold by the shopkeepers, retailers and fruit vendors are maintained.

Pertinently, the KNO has already reported that in absence of the government regulations, prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed in Kashmir and no quality check has added to the insecurities of the consumers.

The Department of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCSCA) that regulated the prices and checked the quality of essential items like bread, mutton, vegetables, and milk lost its teeth after the markets were decontrolled in the Valley, with one of the officials claiming that the department has no power to regulate the prices of the essential commodities sold in the open market.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister has also passed strict directions on ensuring adequate electricity and water supply to the people in Ramadan.

The Social Welfare Department (SWD) has been asked to distribute aid to underprivileged families and support community welfare programmes. Assistance to widows, and orphans be released on priority, it reads.

The Deputy Commissioners have been asked to maintain strict vigil on individuals and organizations collecting donations to prevent fraud and ensure funds are used for genuine welfare purposes. “Set up helpline numbers where people can report suspicious fundraising activities. Identify and publicize a list of verified NGOs/charitable institutions,” the Chief Minister has told all DCs—(KNO)

Weather Update for Jammu & Kashmir – March 3, 2025

Forecast Overview

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued the latest weather update for Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting expected rainfall and snowfall patterns over the coming days. Travelers, farmers, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions.

Weather Forecast

• March 3: Light to moderate rain/snow is expected across most areas. Higher reaches in North and Central Kashmir may experience moderate to heavy snowfall.
• March 4 – 9: Generally dry weather is expected across the region.
• March 10 – 12: A fresh spell of rain and snow is likely to impact several areas.

Weather Advisory & Precautions

⚠ Heavy Snowfall Alert: There is a possibility of moderate to heavy snowfall over isolated higher reaches on March 3, which could disrupt normal activities.

⚠ Landslide & Rockfall Risk: Vulnerable areas may experience landslides, rockfalls, shooting stones, and mudslides. Travelers are advised to remain cautious while on the road.

⚠ Travel Advisory: Tourists, transporters, and commuters must adhere to official advisories from local administration and traffic authorities. Road blockages or delays due to weather conditions are possible.

⚠ Farmer Advisory: Farmers are advised to suspend irrigation and other farming operations until March 4 due to wet conditions.

⚠ Avalanche Warning: Residents and travelers should avoid slopy and avalanche-prone areas, particularly in higher altitudes.

Conclusion

The current weather pattern indicates varying conditions in Jammu & Kashmir, with snowfall and rainfall affecting higher reaches and general stability in lower regions. People are advised to stay updated with official weather reports and take necessary safety measures.