The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — In a significant electoral moment, Kashmir witnessed its first major polls after the abrogation of Article 370, with hopeful residents expressing their aspirations for robust parliamentary representation.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, citizens voiced optimism about electing deserving candidates who would echo their aspirations in the Parliament. Many first-time voters emphasized the importance of having a voice in the Parliament that resonates with their dreams and concerns.

Moreover, there's a palpable desire among Kashmiris for the conduct of assembly elections by the Election Commission of India, enabling the establishment of a local government for addressing grassroots issues.

The Election Commission reported a voter turnout of approximately 36.58% in Srinagar, one of Kashmir's three parliamentary constituencies, by 8 pm on May 13. This turnout is a notable increase compared to previous elections, marking a potential shift in the region's political engagement.

Srinagar, encompassing volatile areas of the city and surrounding districts, has historically struggled with low voter participation. However, Monday's turnout of 36.58% is the highest recorded since 1996, signalling a significant shift in civic participation.

The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 mark a pivotal moment for Kashmir since the BJP-led government's controversial decision to revoke Article 370 in August 2019, altering the region's constitutional status and dividing it into Union Territories.

In this election, the absence of boycott calls is noteworthy, reflecting a renewed sense of political participation among Kashmiris. Srinagar, a bastion of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), has witnessed keen competition among candidates, including Aga Ruhullah of NC, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mohammad Ashraf Mir of the J&K Apni Party (AP) backed by J&K People’s Conference (PC).

The 2024 general election signals a potential turning point in Kashmir's electoral turf, offering residents an opportunity to shape their political future amidst evolving circumstances. With Baramulla and Anantnag-Rajouri set to vote in subsequent rounds, Kashmir's political journey continues to unfold in the post-Article 370 era.

SRINAGAR — In a significant leap forward in the fight against gastrointestinal cancers, the Department of Minimal Access and General Surgery at Government Medical College Srinagar spearheaded the inaugural Luminal Malignancy Day on Thursday.

Collaborating with the Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, this milestone event underscored the institution's commitment to advancing treatment options and raising awareness for luminal malignancies.

Led by the esteemed Professor Iqbal Saleem Mir, Head of the Department of Surgery, the day showcased a series of groundbreaking surgeries utilizing cutting-edge laparoscopic techniques. These procedures, targeting various gastrointestinal malignancies, highlighted the faculty's expertise and dedication to providing minimally invasive yet highly effective treatment options.

The Luminal Malignancy Day served as a nexus for interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting experts from surgery, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and the Department of Anaesthesia. This collaborative effort ensures patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.

Attendees witnessed live demonstrations of laparoscopic procedures, offering firsthand insight into the precision and innovation driving modern surgical techniques. Professor Iqbal Saleem Mir expressed gratitude to all faculty members, staff, and participants whose collective efforts propelled the Luminal Malignancy Day to resounding success.

Principal of Government Medical College Srinagar, Professor Iffat Hassan Shah, hailed the initiative as a significant milestone in addressing the challenges posed by gastrointestinal cancers. She emphasized the importance of collaboration across specialities in providing comprehensive and state-of-the-art care to patients.

Government Medical College Srinagar reaffirmed its commitment to leading the charge against cancer, aiming to enhance outcomes and quality of life for those affected by luminal malignancies. With an unwavering dedication to medical innovation, the institution stands as a beacon of hope for individuals and families confronting cancer.

PULWAMA — In a harrowing ordeal for the residents of Tenghar village in southern Kashmir's Pulwama district, a sudden flash flood wreaked havoc, inundating over a dozen homes and causing extensive damage to household belongings late Friday night.

The catastrophe unfolded as incessant rainfall over several days led to a sharp rise in the water level of a nearby river, culminating in a surge of water that breached its banks and surged into residential areas.

Reports indicate that the flash flood, striking around 11 pm, caught residents off guard, triggering panic and chaos as water inundated homes, including toilets and washrooms. The aftermath was extensive damage, with mats, rugs, and other belongings damaged by the muddy deluge.

Furthermore, the agricultural livelihoods of many households suffered a blow, as kitchen gardens and vegetable patches near the riverbanks bore the brunt of the flooding, compounding the residents' woes.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, affected residents lamented the recurrent nature of such disasters and criticized the apparent lack of effective response from the authorities. They recounted previous instances of flooding and highlighted the failure of the administration to address the underlying issues.

Residents described frantic efforts to ensure the safety of their loved ones, particularly women and children, during the night when the flash floods struck. Despite their distress, they noted a lack of official assistance, with only local police providing minimal support.

While employees from the Department of Irrigation & Flood Control visited affected families on Saturday, residents expressed disappointment, stating that officials merely assessed the damage without providing practical assistance such as pumps or cleaning equipment to mitigate the impact of the muddy water inundating their homes.

In the wake of the calamity, residents issued a fervent plea to district authorities, urging swift intervention and the construction of robust defences against potential future flash floods.

PULWAMA — In a significant political development, District Development Council (DDC) Member Javed Rahim Bhat, hailing from Rajpora/Pulwama-B, officially joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday amidst a fervent gathering at Zaigam village near Rahmoo diversion bridge. Despite heavy rain dampening the spirits of some attendees, hundreds of staunch supporters stood by, expressing solidarity with both Bhat and the PDP.

The event, held at a Zaigam playfield in Rahmoo village, witnessed a surge of attendees eager to witness Bhat's formal induction into the PDP ranks. The atmosphere was electrified as various party stalwarts, including the party President Mehbooba Mufti and Parliament Candidate Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, graced the occasion with their presence.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, Bhat highlighted his deliberative process in choosing a political affiliation, ultimately selecting the PDP due to its alignment with the people's concerns and grievances. He vowed to continue his developmental initiatives within his constituency, emphasizing his commitment to amplifying the voices of the marginalized.

Mehbooba Mufti, addressing the resilient crowd amid the rainfall, underscored the significance of the upcoming Parliament elections in amplifying the Kashmiri narrative. She called upon the electorate to vote en masse, positioning the PDP as the rightful advocate for the region's issues on the national stage. Mufti passionately advocated for the release of incarcerated youth and pledged to champion the genuine grievances of the Kashmiri populace.

Despite the inclement weather, the event served as a testament to the unwavering support for both Javed Rahim Bhat and the PDP, signalling a potential shift in the political turf of Pulwama district. As the political dynamics continue to evolve, Bhat's decision to join the PDP injects fresh momentum into the party's efforts to represent the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

PULWAMA — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) launched its election campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir with a vibrant road show stretching from Tahab Crossing, Circular Road Pulwama to Sangam, Anantnag on Tuesday.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and party's youth president Waheed-ur-Rehman Para led the rally, which drew hundreds of enthusiastic participants, predominantly comprised of youth and PDP supporters.

Addressing the media during the event, Mehbooba Mufti extended condolences to the families affected by the recent Batwara Srinagar boat capsizing incident.

She emphasized the historical support from Pulwama, asserting its significance as the starting point of their campaign. Criticizing the current administration, she lamented the alleged transformation of the union territory into an "open jail" under the BJP-led LG regime.

Mufti condemned the shooting of a tourist guide in Shopian, labelling it unfortunate. However, she contested the mass arrests of youth under Public Safety Act (PSA) charges, suggesting it was disproportionate to the incident.

The PDP's election strategy was outlined, with Mufti contesting from the remodelled Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, Para entering the fray from Srinagar-Pulwama, and Fayaz Ahmad Mir standing as the candidate from the north Kashmir constituency.

The PDP's decision to contest independently follows a public fallout with the National Conference despite their previous alliance in the INDIA coalition.

The upcoming polls, commencing on April 19, will witness prominent contenders including former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and veteran National Conference leader Mian Altaf.

Jammu and Kashmir's electoral landscape has undergone significant changes with the state's transition to a Union territory. The redrawing of constituencies, including Anantnag, aims at achieving parity in representation between Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

Mehbooba Mufti's stronghold in south Kashmir is pivotal for the PDP's electoral prospects, having secured parliamentary victories in 2004 and 2014. South Kashmir's allegiance to the PDP played a crucial role in the party's ascent to power in the 2014 assembly elections.

The Anantnag constituency, emerging from the delimitation exercise, will go to polls on May 7, reflecting the evolving political dynamics in the region.

Political observers anticipate a fiercely contested electoral battle, with each party vying to consolidate its traditional support bases amidst shifting demographics and geopolitical changes.

PULWAMA — In a remarkable display of quick thinking and expertise, personnel from the Pulwama Police and CRPF sprang into action to save a man's life in Kakapora Pulwama. The young man, seated behind the wheel of his car, suffered a cardiac arrest, sending shockwaves through the bystanders.

With the car doors locked, time was of the essence. Acting swiftly, the police and CRPF personnel wasted no time and began administering CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) through the partially open window. Amidst the chaos, the determined rescuers also managed to provide aspirin to the stricken individual, further aiding his chances of survival.

The entire incident, captured on video, later circulated across various social media platforms, drawing widespread attention and admiration for the heroic efforts of the uniformed men. Netizens flooded the internet with messages of gratitude, acknowledging the invaluable role played by the Pulwama Police and CRPF in preserving a precious life.

Following the successful administration of CPR, the man was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for further medical attention.

This incident serves as a testament to the vital importance of CPR training as an emergency response and a crucial life-saving technique that can make all the difference.

By rapidly compressing the chest and providing artificial ventilation, CPR helps to maintain blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly the brain, when someone's heart has stopped beating. This intervention buys valuable time until professional medical help arrives, significantly improving the chances of survival following cardiac arrest or other life-threatening events.

PULWAMA — Concerns escalate in the village of Bellow Dergund, Rajpora area of Pulwama district, as health officials investigate a surge in jaundice cases, particularly among children. The outbreak has prompted urgent action from local authorities following an order issued today by Tehsildar Rajpora.

The order, issued by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir's Revenue Department, directs the deployment of a specialized team to conduct comprehensive testing of the drinking water in the affected village. The team, under the supervision of the concerned authorities, is tasked with analyzing potential contaminants and factors contributing to the spread of the disease. A detailed report outlining findings and recommendations for remedial and preventive measures is expected.

A joint visit by health and Public Health Engineering (PHE) department officials, including BMO Rajpora, was conducted on Friday as per the directive of Tehsildar Rajpora. This visit aimed to assess the situation firsthand and address grievances voiced by villagers regarding the jaundice outbreak.

According to reports, the outbreak has resulted in numerous children being admitted to local hospitals including District Hospital Pulwama. This follows a similar incident in March 2024, where nine individuals tested positive for jaundice in the Dergund Bellow area.

Residents attribute the outbreak to contaminated water supplied from a tubewell. Despite promises of a new water supply scheme, locals claim no action has been taken, and the water tank has remained uncleaned for several years.

An official from the Jal Shakti Department clarified that the village previously received water from both a spring and a tubewell. However, the tubewell recently collapsed, leading to concerns over water safety.

As the authorities continue to investigate the outbreak, the situation remains under close scrutiny as officials are tasked to address the immediate health concerns and implement long-term solutions to prevent future outbreaks.

SRINAGAR — An unidentified militant has been killed after an encounter broke out in the wee hours between militants and security forces in Frasipora area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday.

A top police officer quoted by the news agency GNS said that during the wee hours, input was received about the presence of some militants in the area.

As the joint team of army and police intensified the searches towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants opened fire on the search party, leading to an encounter, the officer said.

During the firefight, an unidentified militant's body has been sighted near the encounter spot, while searches in the area are underway, the top police added.

PULWAMA — As Kashmir celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr, the people of Batpora Rajpora in southern Pulwama district found themselves in the midst of a pressing issue - a severe water shortage persisting for the past 10 days, even on this holy occasion.

Local residents voiced their frustration, stating that despite repeated attempts to reach the Junior Engineer (JE) responsible for water supply, their calls remained unanswered. The antiquated water infrastructure, installed some 70 years ago, has not seen any significant maintenance or upgrades since its inception, leaving the community in a precarious situation.

"Our pleas for assistance have fallen on deaf ears, leaving us without drinking water, even on this significant day of Eid-ul-Fitr," lamented a resident, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Seeking intervention, residents have turned to the District Commissioner (DC) of Pulwama, urging swift action to address the water crisis plaguing their locality.

In a demonstration of their plight, residents staged a protest on Wednesday, coinciding with Eid-ul-Fitr, underscoring the severity of their predicament and the pressing need for immediate resolution.

PULWAMA — In a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and local youth activists, a program titled "Nurturing Capsule for Shaping Children Below 10 Years" was organized today at Government Degree College for Women Pulwama.

The event, held under the theme "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," aimed to foster the talents and aspirations of young children in Pulwama district.

Among the distinguished attendees were CO of 55RR, Davin Sood; Major of 55RR, Abishek Reqiwal; Sanjeev Ratu from 2YC CRPF; SSP Pulwama PD Nitya; ACD Pulwama, Dr Peerzada Farhat; Tehsildar Pulwama Mohammad Iqbal; Assistant Labour Commissioner Pulwama, Hafsa Qayoom; DYSSO Pulwama, ZEO Pulwama, along with other senior officers from various departments of the district.

Hundreds of children under the age of 10 from different schools across Pulwama participated in the program, which encompassed various activities geared towards nurturing their skills and potential in diverse fields, according to organizers.

The event commenced with a lively painting competition on the college lawns, with participants showcasing their artistic flair. Subsequently, outstanding performers were recognized and awarded during the proceedings.

Following this, a career counselling session was conducted, featuring insights from officers representing the army, police, and civil departments. They shared personal anecdotes and professional journeys, aiming to inspire and guide the young participants towards realizing their career aspirations.

Expressing gratitude, the participating students hailed the Indian Army for spearheading such initiatives aimed at nurturing their potential. They expressed hopes for the continuity of such programs in the future.

PULWAMA — Concerned residents of Gouricheck Mohalla in Arihal, Pulwama, are intensifying their calls for the macadamization of a crucial inner link road connecting their area to the Arihal market. This thoroughfare serves as a lifeline for both local communities and businesses, facilitating the transportation of goods and produce.

The unpaved state of the road poses significant challenges, particularly during harsh winter conditions, making travel arduous for residents and hindering economic activities. This sentiment was echoed by Showkat Ahmad Dar, a resident of Gouricheck Mohalla, who highlighted the road's dilapidated condition and its adverse impact on daily life.

Despite previous appeals to authorities, including assurances from the Deputy Commissioner's office in Pulwama, action has been limited. Last year, only preliminary non-macadam work was initiated, leaving the main issue unresolved.

According to Dar, students and elderly individuals are among the most affected, facing difficulties commuting to school and hospitals, respectively. Their plea to the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama is to intervene and expedite the macadamization process.

Irshad Farooq, Lumbardar of Arihal, emphasized the community's urgent need for a properly constructed road, citing its vital role in ensuring smooth connectivity to neighbouring areas, particularly the Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) Lassipora.

As residents persist in their demand for action, the spotlight remains on local authorities to address the pressing infrastructure needs of Gouricheck Mohalla and its surrounding areas.

PULWAMA — Residents of Bellow village in southern Kashmir's Pulwama district are facing significant issues due to the absence of a proper drainage system, which they say has resulted in road damage and inconvenience.

According to locals, promises made by contractors during the macadamisation of the Pulwama-Rajpora road in 2021 have yet to materialize.

Despite assurances of a complete drainage system being integrated into the road construction, residents claim that no such system has been implemented. Now, with a cement pipe near the CRPF camp blocked, water has begun flowing onto the road, creating a stream-like effect that threatens to damage the road further.

Expressing their concerns, villagers have called upon the relevant authorities to address the situation urgently and permanently. They stress the need for immediate action to prevent further road deterioration and alleviate the inconvenience caused by the lack of proper drainage infrastructure.

Local authorities have been urged to investigate the matter and ensure that the promised drainage system is promptly installed to mitigate the ongoing issues faced by residents.

PULWAMA — Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern transportation on the Pulwama-Srinagar road, Gulzar Ahmad, also known as Ghulam Mohammad, stands out with his horse-cart, offering passengers a nostalgic journey from Ratnipora village to Pahoo area.

Ahmad, a resident of Pahoo, has been ferrying passengers and various goods or commodities on his horse-cart daily, providing a traditional means of transport in an era dominated by motor vehicles. His route, particularly from Ratnipora to Pahoo, fills a void for passengers who struggle to find convenient transport options.

With a daily income ranging between 500 to 600 rupees, Ahmad remains steadfast in his traditional livelihood despite the challenges posed by modernity. Reflecting on the changing times, he reminisces about the days when there were 30 to 40 horse carts operating on the route, but now, modern vehicles have surpassed them.

"I hardly manage to run my household with the increasing inflation," Ahmad laments, highlighting the financial strain faced by traditional daily wagers like himself.

Yet, Ahmad finds solace in the reactions of passengers, especially children, who are fascinated by the sight of the horse-cart. Recounting an incident where a man, despite owning a luxury car, requested a ride for his family, Ahmad notes the yearning of Kashmiri adults to relive the past and introduce their children to traditional modes of transportation.

"Some people crave to ride a horse cart," Ahmad remarks, emphasizing the enduring appeal of the traditional experience.

While the march of modernity has seen many horse-cart owners transition to other occupations, Ahmad remains committed to preserving a piece of Kashmir's heritage on the roads of Pulwama. His horse-cart not only offers practical transportation but also serves as a reminder of simpler times in the midst of today's fast-paced world.

PULWAMA — A social media storm ignited by a tweet from Dr Wajahat (MD), warning against the consumption of artificially ripened watermelons during Ramadan, has led to widespread confusion and financial strain for watermelon vendors in Kashmir.

The controversy began when Dr Wajahat's tweet gained traction, urging consumers to boycott watermelons purportedly artificially ripened with chemicals. The tweet resonated with many netizens, sparking fear and scepticism among residents ahead of the Ramadan.

However, a subsequent investigation by The Kashmir Pulse news portal revealed conflicting perspectives. Speaking to local vendors and traders, they vehemently denied the existence of injected watermelons, dismissing Dr Wajahat's claims as misinformation.

"We have been selling watermelons for years, and there's no truth to these allegations. Our livelihoods are at stake because of baseless rumours spread on social media," expressed one vendor, echoing the sentiments of many in the community.

Seeking clarity, reporters from The Kashmir Pulse approached doctors at District Hospital Pulwama for expert opinion. However, they declined to comment, citing a lack of scientific evidence to support the notion of artificially ripened watermelons.

In response to mounting concerns, the J&K Food and Drugs Department stepped in, collecting samples of watermelons for testing to ascertain the veracity of the claims. The results of these tests are awaited and are anticipated to shed light on the ongoing controversy.

Amidst the uncertainty, vendors expressed frustration over the financial impact of the controversy. "Our sales have plummeted since these allegations surfaced. We urge the public to rely on real-life facts rather than succumbing to the influence of social media warriors," pleaded another vendor.

The polarizing nature of the issue has left consumers torn between caution and scepticism, highlighting the power and pitfalls of social media discourse in shaping public opinion.

As the investigation unfolds, residents of Kashmir remain vigilant, awaiting conclusive evidence to put to rest the swirling rumours surrounding the safety of watermelon consumption during Ramadan.

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.

PULWAMA — Mohammad Yaqoob Bhat, an orchard owner in southern Kashmir's Pulwama district, expressed dismay on Wednesday as thieves ravaged his high-density apple orchard in a daring overnight raid.

Situated in Pirpora area of Arihal village, Bhat reported that approximately 30 to 35 high-density apple trees, planted two years ago and already yielding produce, were forcibly uprooted with shovels during the dark hours between Monday and Tuesday.

The financial blow is severe for Bhat and his family, who invested heavily in the orchard using proceeds from his wife's jewellery. He estimated the loss to exceed one lakh rupees, undermining their hopes for a better quality of life.

Expressing suspicion, Bhat suggested the involvement of local drug addicts, citing the audacity required for such a brazen act under the cover of night.

In a plea for assistance, Bhat called upon district authorities and law enforcement to take swift action, urging the police to apprehend the perpetrators and seek justice for the theft.

The incident resonates beyond Bhat's personal loss, signalling a broader concern in southern Kashmir, where many farmers have transitioned to high-density apple cultivation.

Following the introduction of high-density plantations in 2015-2016, the region has witnessed a shift away from traditional apple varieties to more modern cultivars from around the world.

PULWAMA — Following an extended winter hiatus prompted by heavy snowfall, educational institutions across the Kashmir division including the southern Kashmir's Pulwama district resumed operations on Monday.

Students from classes up to 8th standard enjoyed a winter vacation since November 28 of last year, while classes 9th to 12th commenced their break from December 11.

Despite the delay, both government and private schools were eager to resume regular classes and ensure the continuity of their students' education.

According to local media reports, students from all districts in Kashmir were witnessed heading towards their respective educational institutions, displaying great joy and excitement as they embarked on their first day back after the winter break.

"I am delighted that we are back to school. It was tedious to stay at home for such a prolonged period," stated Mohammad Danish, a student from a private school in Pulwama, while speaking to The Kashmir Pulse.

Mehreen Jan, another student, expressed her happiness at reuniting with her friends on the first day of school after winter vacations.

"After a gap of three months, I have returned to school. I have missed my teachers and friends. I feel immensely joyful to finally meet them after such a long duration," she exclaimed.

PULWAMA — In an effort to bolster communication between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the media, a significant interaction meeting convened at Town Hall Pulwama, drawing together district media personalities, journalists, and BJP leadership.

State spokesperson Rajni Sethi spearheaded insightful discussions, underscoring the media's pivotal role as the fourth pillar of democracy. Sethi also conducted a training program aimed at refining media outreach strategies, imparting valuable insights to the attendees.

The event witnessed a diverse assembly of participants, including district media personalities, journalists, top leadership from BJP Unit Pulwama, and BJP Media Incharge and Co-Incharges. Notable figures present included Chief Guest Rajni Sethi, accompanied by Zaman Noor and Amir Habib. The meeting was presided over by District President Mohammad Lateef Bhat, alongside other senior BJP leaders.

Throughout the proceedings, State Spokesperson Rajni Sethi engaged in substantive discussions with district media personalities and journalists, addressing pertinent issues and concerns while ensuring avenues for resolution.

Sethi reiterated the indispensable role of the media in upholding democratic values, emphasizing its function in informing, educating, and holding both the government and the public accountable.

Warmly welcomed by the local journalist community, Sethi led a training program during the latter part of the interaction, specifically targeting district media incharges. The session aimed at refining BJP's media outreach strategies within the district, offering interactive workshops and insightful discussions to equip participants with effective communication techniques.

PULWAMA — Shugufta Akhter, a 25-year-old resident of Sangerwani Pulwama, has emerged as a beacon of women's empowerment in her community through her pioneering efforts in beekeeping. After completing her higher secondary education, Shugufta embarked on a journey to revitalize the organic honey industry in the region.

With determination as her guiding force and the support of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) under the Umeed scheme, Shugufta not only breathed new life into the honey-making business but also encouraged and mentored other women to participate, leading them towards success.

"I am grateful to the government and NRLM for providing opportunities for self-sufficiency," Shugufta expressed, reflecting on her journey since joining NRLM in 2021.

Shugufta Akhter's venture has not only enabled her to support her family but has also positioned her as a mentor within the beekeeping community. Emphasizing the convenience of fulfilling customer orders via phone requests, she underscores the significance of providing pure, unadulterated honey to meet the surging demand.

Beyond catering to local needs, Shugufta has expanded her reach by parcelling honey to other states of India, further amplifying her impact on the honey industry.

Through her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit, Shugufta Akhter continues to inspire and uplift her community, setting a remarkable example of empowerment and economic sustainability.

PULWAMA — In a proactive move to engage with the public, Bharatiya Janata Party's Yuva Morcha organized a Public Darbar in Pulwama, with Mohammad Lateef Bhat, Pulwama District President of BJP, as the chief guest and other prominent members.

The event, held at Mega Educational Institute in Nehama Pulwama on Tuesday, drew a diverse group of individuals and delegations from various areas, gathering to voice their grievances.

Citizens utilized the platform to seek the intervention of BJP leader Mohammad Lateef Bhat in addressing and resolving their issues. The BJP leaders demonstrated prompt responsiveness, resolving several grievances on the spot, thereby facilitating direct citizen engagement with the party's leadership.

Furthermore, Mohammad Lateef Bhat made a significant announcement during the Darbar, pledging 10 lakh rupees for the development of Nehama village. This commitment underscores the party's dedication to addressing local development needs and fostering community progress.

The Public Darbar served as an effective mechanism for citizens to connect directly with BJP representatives, highlighting the party's proactive approach towards addressing public concerns and fostering community development.

The event in Pulwama reflects the ongoing efforts of political parties to engage with constituents and address their needs on a local level, as India's political landscape continues to evolve.