The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — In a devastating accident on Thursday, a bus carrying passengers from Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, plunged into a deep gorge near Tanda in the Akhnoor area of Jammu, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 passengers and injuries to 57 others. The tragic incident has prompted a significant response from local authorities and top political leaders.

The accident occurred when the driver of the overcrowded bus reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to hurtle down into the gorge. Rescue operations were promptly launched by the District Administration, Police, Army, and other emergency teams to retrieve the bodies and assist the injured. By 6 pm, officials confirmed that the casualty count had risen to 22, with 57 individuals receiving treatment at a local health facility.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, announcing financial assistance for the victims' families. "Anguished by the loss of lives due to a bus mishap in Akhnoor. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover soon," he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. The PMO further stated that Rs. 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her condolences, stating, "Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish a speedy recovery of the injured," she added in a post on X.

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, expressed his grief and announced additional financial support. "The bus accident in Akhnoor, Jammu is heart-rending. I condole the loss of lives and pray to the almighty to give the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable loss. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured," he stated.

The LG announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 5 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. He assured that the administration is providing all possible assistance and medical facilities to the affected families.

In response to the accident, District Magistrate Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, has ordered a magisterial inquiry to determine the cause. The Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Jammu is expected to submit a report within seven days. "Other officers have also been tasked to provide necessary assistance," DM Vaishya noted in a statement.

Political leaders from various parties have expressed their sorrow and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

SRINAGAR — With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to address a public gathering in Udhampur on April 12, authorities have enacted measures to enhance security, including a ban on the flying of aviation devices in the district.

In an order quoted by a local news agency, District Magistrate Udhampur, Saloni Rai (IAS), cited the necessity for heightened security measures due to emerging threats involving drones being used as improvised explosive devices by anti-national elements.

The order, issued under Section 144 of the CrPC, prohibits the flying of any aviation devices, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), drones, and balloons, in District Udhampur. It comes into effect immediately and will remain in force until 5:00 pm on April 12, 2024.

"Various necessary arrangements are being undertaken by the administration as per SoP, for safe and secure conduct of the rally," the order states.

Senior Superintendent of Police Udhampur has been tasked with ensuring the implementation of the order.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a Rs 100 reduction in the price of LPG cylinders in celebration of Women’s Day.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, PM Modi stated that this decision aims to alleviate the financial strain on millions of households nationwide.

“Today, on Women's Day, our government has decided to reduce LPG cylinder prices by Rs. 100. This will significantly ease the financial burden on millions of households across the country, especially benefiting our Nari Shakti,” he said.

Furthermore, Modi emphasized the government's commitment to supporting families and promoting a healthier environment through affordable cooking gas.

“By making cooking gas more affordable, we also aim to support the well-being of families and ensure a healthier environment. This is in line with our commitment to empowering women and ensuring ‘Ease of Living’ for them,” the Prime Minister added.

This move is anticipated to have a positive impact on households, particularly on women who often bear the responsibility of managing domestic expenses.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Srinagar stirred a flurry of political rhetoric, economic pledges, and expressions of discontent from opposition parties, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.

In a mega rally at Bakshi Stadium, PM Modi touted the abolition of Article 370 as a catalyst for Jammu and Kashmir's progress, asserting that the region is now "breathing freely" without the former legal constraint.

He declared, "This is the new Jammu and Kashmir for which Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee sacrificed his life," underscoring the significance of the governmental action. Amid accusations against the Congress for perpetuating dynastic politics and impeding development, Modi emphasized equal rights and opportunities for all.

However, the opposition didn't mince words in criticizing Modi's address. Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar lamented the absence of substantial announcements, including the restoration of statehood and solutions for unemployment. Sagar accused the Prime Minister of rehashing old promises and exploiting young entrepreneurs for political gains.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Congress criticized Modi for sidestepping crucial issues such as the restoration of democracy and job creation, accusing him of delivering a pre-election rally aimed at discrediting opposition parties.

Amidst the political theatre, PM Modi engaged with young entrepreneurs, symbolizing the complexities of governance in the region. Entrepreneurs like Nazim Nazir from Pulwama showcased their success stories, attributing their achievements to government support post-Article 370 abrogation. Modi lauded their efforts and encouraged further innovation, reflecting on the transformative potential of grassroots initiatives.

In his speech, Modi hailed Jammu and Kashmir's progress in tourism and economic sectors, announcing initiatives worth billions aimed at bolstering the region's agri-economy. He extended Ramadan greetings and emphasized the region's importance as a tourist hub.

Security measures were heightened during Modi's visit, underscoring the delicate security situation in the region. Despite the anticipation surrounding the Prime Minister's speech, traffic remained largely unaffected, with stringent security arrangements in place.

PULWAMA — During his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with locals at the Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir event in Srinagar, where he interacted with Nazim Nazir Dar, a Pulwama-based beekeeper and beneficiary of the Viksit Bharat programme.

Nazim, who caught the prime minister's attention, recounted his journey from a small-scale beekeeper to a successful entrepreneur.

He informed PM Modi that he initially received a 50 per cent subsidy for 25 boxes of bees in 2019. Since then, his beekeeping business has flourished, with the assistance of the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), which provided him with Rs 5 lakh. This support enabled him to expand his enterprise, leading to significant growth.

"In 2023, I sold about 5,000 kg of honey along with 2,000 honeycombs," Nazim shared with the prime minister, highlighting his remarkable progress in the apiculture sector. He also mentioned his efforts to involve others in beekeeping, with 100 individuals currently engaged in his business.

Impressed by Nazim's achievements, PM Modi shared a photo with him, referring to Nazim as his "friend" and commending him for the "good work" he is doing.

Modi expressed his admiration in a tweet, saying, "A memorable selfie with my friend Nazim. I was impressed by the good work he’s doing. At the public meeting, he requested a selfie and was happy to meet him. My best wishes for his future endeavours."

Nazim's journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success serves as an inspiring example of the transformative impact of government initiatives and individual determination in fostering economic growth and empowerment in the region.

SRINAGAR — A multi-tier security blanket has been laid in the decked-up Srinagar as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to arrive in the Capital City to address a mammoth rally at Bakshi Stadium tomorrow (Thursday).

Reliable sources told the news agency KNO that police and other security agencies have made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of PM Modi’s rally.

“Bakshi Stadium, the venue where the PM will address the gathering, has not been decorated but a multi-tier security layer has been laid in and around the venue,” the sources said.

A police officer said that all security arrangements have been finalised. “All measures are in place to facilitate the people,” he said. “There are heightened security measures to ensure a smooth event. All security agencies are maintaining close coordination.”

Sources said that top police officers took stock of the security arrangements at the Bakshi Stadium and other parts of Srinagar. They said that sharpshooters have been deployed atop buildings adjacent to the Bakshi Stadium.

PM Modi will be arriving at noon tomorrow. He will land at the Srinagar International Airport where he will board an army chopper to the army’s 15 Corps headquarters where he will lay wreaths at the war memorial and pay tributes to fallen heroes.

Sources from the Badamibagh Cantonment said that PM Modi will travel by road to the Bakshi Stadium where he will address a gathering of over one lakh people.

According to Srinagar Police, Srinagar city has been declared as a ‘Temporary Red Zone’ for the operation of drones and quadcopters, as per provisions of Rule 24 (2) of Drone Rules, 2021 with immediate effect. “All unauthorized drone operations in the Red Zone are liable to be penalised as per relevant provisions of Drone Rules, 2021,” Srinagar Police said and urged people to cooperate.

Sources said that vital road links from Jehangir Chowk to Solina, Zero Bridge to Lal Ded have been sealed and blocked at some points as part of security measures.

As per BJP’s J&K Chief Ravinder Raina, Srinagar has been decorated with flags, hoardings, buntings and banners of PM Modi and “we are expecting a gathering of two lakh people at Bakshi Stadium.”

BJP J&K spokesman Altaf Thakur said that the rally is going to be historic with huge participation of people. Almost 10,000 BJP flags and 1000 buntings and hoardings have been installed at the venue and other parts of the city by BJP workers.

SRINAGAR — As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Srinagar tomorrow, the Inspector General (IG) of Traffic, Bhim Sen Tuti stated that the roads leading to the venue will remain closed for public transport.

Addressing media persons, IG Traffic, as per the news agency KNO, said that starting from 4:00 am until 7:00 pm on March 7, the traffic movement from Jehangir Chowk to Rambagh and Rajbagh to LD Hospital-Tulsi Bagh route will be restricted.

“Motorists travelling between Jehangir Chowk and Rambagh are advised to use alternative routes through interior roads, specifically the Rambagh-Hyderpora-Moominabad-Batmaloo road instead of the Solina-Magarmal Bagh axis,” said the IGP Traffic.

Also, traffic assistance points will be stationed at strategic locations to facilitate smooth movement along these routes, he added.

Similarly, motorists travelling from Radio Kashmir-Rajbagh and adjacent areas towards Solina-Rambagh are advised to take the MA/RR Road-Jehangir Chowk Batmaloo-Moominabad-Hyderpora route instead of the Rajbagh-Jawahar Nagar-LD Hospital-Tulsi Bagh Road axis.

Additionally, the movement of vehicles from Panthachowk towards Sonwar and vice versa will be discouraged during this period. “Students appearing for examinations are urged to carry valid ID cards and roll number slips and to reach their examination centres before 8:30 am and leave after 3:00 pm to avoid any inconvenience, with special arrangements made for them at traffic assistance points,” mentioned the IGP Traffic.

Furthermore, motorists are advised to avoid travelling on Gupkar road and instead use the Dalgate-Nehru Park road to reach their destinations. Citizens are reminded to park their vehicles only at designated parking places to prevent congestion, as wrongly parked vehicles will be towed.

Moreover, in case of emergencies or assistance, citizens can contact the Traffic Police on the special service number (103), added the IGP Traffic. “The restrictions and advisories are implemented to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of traffic during the Prime Minister's visit to Srinagar,” he added.

SRINAGAR — With Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Kashmir on March 7, political parties in the region are reflecting contrasting sentiments among locals.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed scepticism about any potential positive outcomes from Modi's visit, citing grievances against the BJP-led government's treatment of Kashmiris.

PDP spokesperson Suhail Bukhari, addressing a press conference in Srinagar, asserted that the people of the valley harboured no expectations from the Prime Minister's visit. "The BJP government misbehaved and never listened to the people," Bukhari stated, reflecting a sentiment of disillusionment among many Kashmiris.

In contrast, BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh painted an optimistic picture of Kashmir's anticipation, claiming that Kashmiris held high hopes for Modi's leadership.

Chugh highlighted the purported achievements under Modi's administration, including industrial growth, employment opportunities for youth, and the revocation of Article 370. He emphasized the enthusiasm among locals for Modi's forthcoming rally at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar.

The contrasting views underscore the political divide in Kashmir, with the PDP expressing scepticism while the BJP remains optimistic about the impact of Modi's visit. As Kashmir braces for Modi's arrival, the region finds itself at the centre of divergent political opinions and aspirations.

SRINAGAR — The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) expects the November 7, Srinagar rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be a grand success, predicting an attendance of more than two lakh people at the venue.

BJP Jammu Kashmir President Ravinder Raina claimed that people in every nook and cranny of the Valley are happy and eagerly waiting for the arrival of Mr Modi in Kashmir.

Modi is scheduled to visit Kashmir on March 7. He will address a rally at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar. J&K Police have already sealed the venue for the event and special security pickets have been erected in a two-km radius of the venue. Frisking is being carried out throughout the city and additional forces have been deployed on all major roads coming in and going out of Srinagar.

While addressing a press conference in Srinagar, BJP Jammu Kashmir President Ravinder Raina claimed that Gujjar Bakarwals, Pahari, Hanjis, Telis, Chopans, Hajams and over 40 sub-castes who were allegedly deprived of their rights by previous governments will attend the Modi’s Srinagar rally.

“In 2003, Vajpayee’s Srinagar rally was a success and so was Modi’s rally at SK Stadium in 2015. Due to the efforts of Modi, there is peace and development in Kashmir. Bollywood star SRK and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar freely roamed in Kashmir because Modi invested in peace here,” Raina said and claimed that BJP will win both the Assembly and Parliament elections in Jammu and Kashmir hands down.

He said the future of Jammu and Kashmir is safe in the hands of Mr Modi. “BJP will contest on all five Parliament seats in Jammu and Kashmir and will win all of them. The people of Kashmir love and support Mr Modi and BJP. We request people to attend the March 7 rally in Srinagar and listen to the Prime Minister of India,” Raina said.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to embark on his second visit to Jammu and Kashmir within a month, signalling the launch of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election campaign in the region.

This forthcoming visit marks PM Modi's maiden trip to Kashmir since the state's bifurcation into two Union Territories in August 2019. During his recent visit to Jammu, the Prime Minister unveiled an array of development projects totalling over Rs 32,000 crore.

According to sources cited by a local news agency, a comprehensive itinerary for PM Modi's Kashmir visit is anticipated to be unveiled shortly.

Scheduled for March 6, PM Modi's itinerary includes an address to women's Self Help Groups and other audiences nationwide via video conferencing, extending to Jammu and Kashmir. This engagement precedes International Women's Day, coinciding with the Shivratri festival this year.

Highlighting the significance of his visit, PM Modi is slated to headline a public rally in the Anantnag district of southern Kashmir. Here, he will inaugurate various initiatives and engage with beneficiaries of welfare programs.

Sources underscore the importance of the Anantnag rally as it symbolizes the kick-off of BJP's election campaign for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections in the Kashmir valley.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to visit Kashmir in March to address a public rally in the southern district of Anantnag.

Reliable sources quoted by the news agency KNO that PM Modi is scheduled to visit Kashmir between March 7 to March 15. “He is scheduled to address a public rally in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district,” they said.

A BJP leader privy to PM’s visit said that the BJP’s Kashmir unit is urging the PM to address a rally in Srinagar as well. “However, there was no final decision on this,” he said, adding that PM Modi will arrive in Kashmir any time between March 7 to March 15. “The final date will be announced shortly,” he said.

This will be the second visit by PM Modi to J&K since February 20, the day he addressed a massive public rally in Jammu where he also inaugurated projects worth Rs 32000 crore.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Jammu, made significant announcements and inaugurated numerous development projects on Tuesday, emphasizing the transformation underway in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a massive public rally at MA stadium in Jammu, PM Modi highlighted the BJP-led government's efforts to remove Article 370, which he termed as the primary obstacle hindering the region's progress. He assured that the Union Territory is now on the path of development, promising infrastructure that rivals renowned destinations like Switzerland.

PM Modi underscored the government's commitment to eradicating dynastic politics, corruption, and appeasement politics, aiming to provide equal opportunities for all communities. He pledged to continue working towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Among the unveiled projects, PM Modi inaugurated the first Electric Train in J&K, aiming to reduce pollution and improve transportation. Additionally, he launched various initiatives in education, railway, aviation, and road sectors, totalling over Rs 32,000 crore in investment.

During his visit, PM Modi distributed appointment orders to approximately 1,500 new government recruits and laid the foundation stone for a new terminal building at Jammu Airport. He also dedicated several rail projects, including the new rail line between Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan and the electrified Baramulla-Sringar-Banihal-Sangaldan section.

The Prime Minister's visit received appreciation from Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha, who hailed the initiatives as crucial steps toward the region's progress.

SRINAGAR — Five years since 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soldiers were killed in a suicide attack on a convoy of 78 military vehicles carrying armed personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the fallen troopers today and said their "sacrifice for our nation will always be remembered".

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "I pay homage to the brave heroes who were martyred in Pulwama". "Their service and sacrifice for our nation will always be remembered," he added.

The 2019 Pulwama attack occurred on February 14, 2019, when a convoy of vehicles carrying Indian security personnel on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in the Pulwama district of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The suicide bomber who carried out the attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar, a Kashmiri youth from the Pulwama district. The military convoy was transporting more than 2,500 Central Reserve Police Force personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday paid tributes to the 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel who lost their lives in the suicide attack. “Humble tributes to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. The nation will forever remain indebted to their exemplary courage, supreme sacrifice, and selfless service to the motherland,” Sinha wrote on X.

On behalf of Jammu and Kashmir Police, DGP J&K RR Swain paid heartfelt homage to the CRPF men who made ultimate sacrifice in 2019 Pulwama attack. "The sacrifices of CRPF personnel will forever be etched in our hearts. As we remember these heroes, let's renew our commitment to securing peace, "DGP has said.

SRINAGAR — Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 20 to kickstart a slew of development projects worth thousands of crores.

According to sources, he will address a rally in Jammu. In the latest employment drive by the government, Mr Modi will distribute 1.08 lakh appointment letters to youth via video conferencing across various Central government departments.

Union Minister of State in the PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh, will oversee the event from New Delhi, with three other Union Ministers distributing letters in Jammu, Srinagar, and Leh.

The PM's visit is expected to include the inauguration of projects like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Vijaypur, the highest railway bridge in Reasi, the Devika Rejuvenation project in Udhampur, and IIM Jammu, among others.

He will lay the foundation stones for several other development initiatives. While the train project to connect Kashmir with the rest of the country is still ongoing, there are plans to extend the service beyond Banihal to Khari, further reducing the distance between Kashmir and Jammu by rail.

SRINAGAR — In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has upheld the Central government's move from 2019 to annul the special semi-autonomous status accorded to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The apex court declared that the special status granted to the region was a "temporary provision."

The ruling also emphasized the necessity of placing Jammu and Kashmir on equal footing with other Indian states at the earliest, mandating local elections to be held by September 30, 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Supreme Court's verdict through social media on Monday, referring to it as "a beacon of hope, a promise of a brighter future, and a testament to our collective resolve to build a stronger, more united India."

The case revolved around over 20 petitions that contested the contentious abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 by the government at the Centre led by Modi. The petitioners raised concerns about the Indian Parliament's authority to revoke the region’s special status, arguing that only the constituent assembly of Jammu and Kashmir held the right to decide on such matters.

Under Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir, with its Muslim-majority populace, had enjoyed distinct privileges, including limited autonomy, a separate constitution, and inherited protections related to land and employment.

Following the annulment of Article 370, direct governance from New Delhi was imposed on Jammu and Kashmir. The region was bifurcated into two federal territories: Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, both administered directly by the Central government without individual legislative assemblies.

The Supreme Court's ruling signifies a significant legal validation of the government's decision, concluding a prolonged legal battle over the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status.

NEW DELHI — India's moon mission Chandrayaan-3 has made a successful soft landing near the moon's South Pole, bringing cheer to a billion hearts and propelling India to the elite space club.

India has become the first nation to land near the South Pole, which is a hot new destination since traces of water were found on the moon.

The touchdown took place at 6:04 pm amid huge cheers in the war room of space agency ISRO.

Meanwhile, ISRO on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote, “Chandrayaan-3 has successfully soft-landed on the moon. Congratulations, India.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that this is a historic day for India’s space sector. “Congratulations to ISRO for the remarkable success of the Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission.”

PM Modi, who is in South Africa for the BRICS summit, virtually witnessed the landing attempt of India's moon mission - Chandrayaan-3.

"This moment is precious and unprecedented. This moment is the Jaighosh of new India. This moment is the strength of 1.4 billion heartbeats. The success of Amrit Varsha in this phase of Amrit Kaal," said the PM, in an online address to the nation from South Africa.

BUDGAM — In a landmark day for the railways' sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 508 railway stations across the country under the scheme, through video conferencing, at a cost of more than Rs 24,470 crores.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the ceremony at an event at Budgam Railway Station. In his address, the Lt Governor expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for including three stations of J&K UT, Jammu Tawi, Udhampur and Budgam under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

He said the redevelopment of railway stations in the UT will give a huge boost to connectivity and ease of travel for passengers. “I believe railway connectivity is the lifeline of a society. A railway line not only strengthens connectivity with different regions but it also brings economic prosperity and transforms standard of living and creates a new destiny of the concerned region,” the Lt Governor said.

The Lt Governor highlighted the ongoing railway projects and the overall transformation taking place in the railway sector. "Under the guidance of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, we are witnessing rail projects of unprecedented magnitude in Kashmir Valley," he said.

“Kashmir will be connected to Kanyakumari by the end of this financial year. It will connect the valley with all important commercial centres of the country,” the Lt Governor added.

He further informed that the Railway Board has sanctioned five Final Location Survey works in Kashmir: Doubling of Baramulla-Banihal Railway Line, New Baramulla-Uri, Awantipora-Shopian, Sopore-Kupwara and Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam Rail Line. "Once approved, the new networks will boost rail connectivity in the valley," he added.

He also shared the reforms introduced by the UT Administration to strengthen the air and road connectivity catering to the growing aspirations of the people.

Nazir Ahmad Khan, Chairman, District Development Council, Budgam; Vijay Kumar, ADGP Jammu; Vijay Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Budgam; Vijay Pratap Singh, Principal Chief Engineer Northern Railway, PRI members, youth and people in large numbers were present.

KARGIL — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India as a growing nation has been able to deal effectively with internal and external enemies and time is not far when it will be an “enemy-free nation.”

“India as a nation has launched a war against its internal and external enemies and time is not far when all kinds of enemies will be wiped out and India will emerge as an enemy-free nation,” Prime Minister thundered from the stage, as per the news agency KNO.

Modi said that there can be no better Diwali festival than the one celebrated in Kargil where on one hand there are borders and on the other, brave men are protecting it. He said the Diwali festival actually means “celebrating the end of terrorism.”

Addressing the soldiers in Kargil, on the eve of Diwali—the festival of lights—PM Modi, as per KNO said that one could never forget the Diwali celebrated after the grand victory of the Kargil war when "our brave soldiers gave a befitting reply to the enemy."

“Whenever Pakistan played mischief, Kargil gave a befitting reply and always emerged victorious,” he said, adding that “Tiger Hill and other peaks are witnesses of the great valor of the nation's brave soldiers."

He said one can understand when the nation’s brave men are so committed to their motherland, what can be the fate of the country. “It is because of you (soldiers) that people across the nation sleep without any worry,” PM Modi said.

The PM said that he was glad to see his photographs clicked during the Kargil war when he got an opportunity to serve food items at the base camps of Kargil among soldiers. “Today, our soldiers are enjoying better connectivity even at the forward posts of Kargil. They speak to their family members and are able to reach their homes on vacations in time,” he said.

Two days ago, ISRO launched 36 satellites in one go, he said. “When you listen to such news, your chest broadens with proud feeling,” Modi said.

“Today, India is growing economy across the globe and every country is giving due respect to it.” This is because, as per him, India has been able to deal effectively with internal and external enemies of the nation.

“Terrorism and Naxalism are being rooted out,” PM Mod said, adding, “Naxalism at one point of time had engulfed a large portion of the country, but today, we have been able to wipe out Naxalism to a large extent.”

PM Modi said that the country has launched a war against corruption and a grand victory is being achieved. “Today, Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and Sabka Vishwas slogan is bearing fruit,” he said.

On the technology front, India is not lagging behind and all the latest technology is being procured, PM said. “To ensure better coordination among our security forces and to face all challenges effectively, efforts are on all fronts to achieve the target of Atma Nirbar Bharat. Today, our security forces have decided that 400 kinds of weapons are to be manufactured within the country,” he said.

He said that India never opted for war but as a last option. “Wars fought in Lanka or Kurukshetra, all efforts were made to avoid war. But if we are provoked and challenged, our three-level forces are able to give a befitting reply to the enemy,” PM Modi said, as per KNO.

PM Modi said that today, the entire world looks at India as a growing economy and the fastest progressing nation. “All countries across the globe are giving due respect to India after knowing the country’s ability and capability,” PM Modi said.

SRINAGAR — CPI (M) senior leader and former Kulgam legislator, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami on Monday said that the Panchayati Raj system is not new in Jammu and Kashmir, but it existed even before the partition here and that the government must not push the people towards the wall.

Addressing a press conference at his Gupkar residence, Tarigami, as per the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that the Prime Minister has made an appeasing statement for the youth, but questioned why several youths were put behind the bars ahead of the visit.

“The Prime Minister has made tall claims to appease the youth, but it won’t serve the cause as there is a need to change the ground situation. What matters for the youth is to provide them employment, ensure a free atmosphere for them and give them security,” he said.

“I want to inform the government that the anger is increasing and don't push them to the wall. Also, don’t consider silence as normalcy,” Tarigami said.

He added that the government is beating the drums with regard to the Panchayat Raj system here, but the fact is that it is nothing new in J&K as such a system was already existing in the Union territory even before the partition.

Tarigami further added that the government at present is claiming the new Kashmir, but the fact remains that this all existed in 1944, which is the outcome of the people's movement.

He added that the implementation of GST was a big blow to the federal structure of India. “The government has claimed that the States will get their share under GST, but nothing has been given to the States so far,” he said.

Tarigami further said that the situation has changed on the ground as the Governors at present have become parallel centres in States, especially the places where Opposition governments exist.

He further stated that the Prime Minister in a meeting of J&K leaders said ‘Doori Door Karni Hai’, but unfortunately, nothing happened on the ground.

About the present power scenario, Tarigami said that the government should intervene and that 50 per cent of electricity being generated from J&K should be given to the consumers here so that the people could heave a sigh of relief.

“At present 45 per cent of electricity supplied to different states is being generated from J&K and the government should intervene to provide at least 50 per cent to the consumers here,” he said.

SRINAGAR — People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is talking about “future” of those J&K youth who are now being jailed under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) to preclude their chances of getting bail.

Mehbooba Mufti in a press conference at PDP office in Srinagar said that PM is talking of the future of youth who are being slapped with UAPA by them so that they would not get bail as was the possibility under PSA.

The Prime Minister is doing nothing when the largest minority community of India – Muslims are being bulldozed, Mehbooba said, adding, “J&K had extended its hand to a secular India in an expectation that Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Christians would live together, but nothing of such is happening right now.”

Regarding the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to J&K, Mehbooba Mufti according to news agency Kashmir Dot Com said that in the backdrop of bulldozing a minority community, the PM is visiting to J&K, which has been destroyed by them by leaving no stone unturned.

“J&K State has been downgraded to Union Territory, employees are being sacked, persons from outside are giving employment here by ignoring the locals… the future of J&K’s people has been destroyed,” said Mehbooba.

She said that the bulldozing process by Centre was started from J&K after the Constitutions of India, erstwhile State of J&K and democracy was bulldozed by them.

While questioned about Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks about conducting elections in J&K, she said that they have not been apprised about anything regarding elections yet. “Amid keeping J&K’s everything on sale, the news about the elections has not been heard by us,” she added.

Replying to a question, Mehbooba said that BJP has stymied the Opposition political parties’ activities and has put an end to a political process.