Day: January 9, 2025

  • Thousands Participate in Annual Urs of Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib

    Thousands Participate in Annual Urs of Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    LIAQAT ALI KHATANA

    RAJOURI,JAN 09 :- The five-days annual Urs of Hazrat Sayed Ghulam Rasool Shah (RA), fondly known as Nanga Baji Sahib (RA), concluded today with fervor and devotion at Village Bravhi, Kalakote, in district Rajouri.

    The Urs is celebrated every year at the residence of the late Sufi saint Sayed Late Muzaffer Hussain Shah , grandson of Nanga Baji Sahib (RA) and a highly respected spiritual figure, widely recognized as Baji Sahib of Bravhi Kalakote.

    The concluding day of the Urs featured recitations from the holy Quran, heartfelt prayers, and the soulful rendition of Naat. Devotees offered special prayers seeking peace and harmony for the state and the nation.

    Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib (RA), a revered Sufi saint originally from Malangam village in Bandipora district, is remembered for his spiritual wisdom and piety. His tomb draws thousands of devotees from across the country during the Urs each year.

    This year too, large number of devotees thronged Bravhi to pay their respects and seek the blessings of Sayed Baji Basharat Hussain Shah , the current Gadi Nasheen of the Bravi Darbar. To cater to the visiting devotees, a free community kitchen (langar) was organized.

    Speaking on the occasion, Ravinder Raina lauded the enduring legacy of Nanga Baji Sahib, stating:
    “Today, as we gather to honor the revered Baji Nanga Sahib, I am reminded of his profound contributions to our region. His spiritual guidance, selfless service, and commitment to humanity’s welfare continue to inspire us. Nanga Baji Sahib’s teachings of compassion, tolerance, and unity are a guiding light for harmonious coexistence.”

    He added, “I pay my humble tribute to the memory of Baji Nanga Sahib and salute his remarkable spirit. May his blessings guide us toward righteousness, and may his legacy flourish for generations to come.”

    The Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib (RA) remains a significant spiritual event in the region, bringing together devotees and admirers to celebrate the teachings and life of this great Sufi saint.

  • Road Safety Awareness Camp at New Age Public Higher Secondary School  

    Road Safety Awareness Camp at New Age Public Higher Secondary School  

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    LIAQAT ALI KHATANA

    RAJOURI JAN 09:-Dhangri Block of Rajouri witnessed a crucial step towards safer roads on thursday as the Traffic Department, in collaboration with New Age Public Higher Secondary School, organised a Road Safety Awareness Camp. This event, part of the ongoing Road Safety Month campaign, sought to educate students and the local community about responsible road use.

    This program Led by ARTO Rajouri, Pawan Kumar Sharma, and a team of road safety officials, the camp featured interactive sessions, demonstrations, and engaging discussions aimed at reducing road accidents and fostering safer practices. The initiative underscored the collective role of citizens in building a culture of road safety.

    Focus on Safety Education ARTO Rajouri delivered an impactful address, citing alarming road accident statistics and urging the community to adopt safer habits. He emphasised critical safety measures, including the use of helmets and seat belts, adherence to speed limits, avoidance of distractions like mobile phones, and strict compliance with traffic signals. Pedestrian safety and the dangers of driving under the influence were also key highlights of his address.

  • Want to Work with Delhi to Resolve J&K Problems; INDIA Bloc Permanent: Farooq Abdullah

    Want to Work with Delhi to Resolve J&K Problems; INDIA Bloc Permanent: Farooq Abdullah

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    JAMMU JAN 09(PTI):- The National Conference government headed by Omar Abdullah would not “fight” the Centre but work with it to resolve the problems faced by Jammu and Kashmir, party president Farooq Abdullah asserted here on Thursday.

    “We don’t want to fight New Delhi. We want to work together with Delhi to resolve the state’s problems. We don’t want to engage in battles. Those who want to fight can do so,” the former chief minister told reporters here.”

    His remarks came in the backdrop of party Lok Sabha MP Aga Rullah’s comments during a TV interview that Omar Abdullah should not distance himself from the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and should not be seen by the people as a “Delhi’s representative”.

    Addressing concerns about the unity within the INDIA bloc, Abdullah said the alliance is not just about contesting elections, but it is about strengthening India and eliminating hatred.

    He was replying to media questions on a range of issues including fissures in the INDIA bloc with the AAP and Congress fighting the Delhi polls separately, the dual power structure in Jammu and Kashmir, the Maha Kumbh and the Tirupati stampede.

    He expressed concern over unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a significant issue in the region.

    “How will people’s problem be solved when unemployment is so severe here? Our hospitals and schools are in dire condition. We need teachers, doctors, and paramedics, but instead, unnecessary battles are being fought,” he said.

    Abdullah said his National Conference has nothing to do with the BJP, but it is the responsibility of the central government to support state governments in addressing local issues.

    “We are not with the BJP, nor do we have any connection with them,” he said.

    Abdullah stressed that both the central and state governments should prioritise the needs of the people rather than engaging in conflicts that hinder progress.

    Reacting to claims about his son and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah being influenced by New Delhi, the NC chief said, “Omar Abdullah has been elected as the chief minister by the people. He does not act on anyone’s instructions. He acts on his own. Those who are under this impression should come out of it.”

    Replying to a question about Wednesday’s Tirupati temple stampede that killed six pilgrims, he urged the government to ensure that incidents causing loss of life are prevented, particularly at religious sites and during festivals.

    He highlighted the importance of proactive planning at places of worship, which attract lakhs of devotees, to ensure safety and security, especially for women.

    “With the Maha Kumbh approaching, the authorities must take adequate measures to avoid any mismanagement. This is a once-in-twelve-year event where millions visit the Ganga. The government must ensure proper arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents,” he said, underlining the cultural and religious significance of such events in India.

    On a question about rumblings within the INDIA bloc, Abdullah said, “The alliance is not just about contesting elections. It is about strengthening India and eliminating hatred. Those who believe this alliance exists only for parliamentary elections are mistaken. The alliance is permanent — it is for every day and every moment.”

    Responding to questions about the dual governance structure, Abdullah reiterated the demand for statehood, stating that the dual power structure in Jammu and Kashmir would stabilise once full statehood is restored.

    On a controversy over a person facing a probe joining the National Conference, Abdullah said, “I was unaware of his involvement in any case. We announced yesterday that until he is cleared of all charges, he will not be admitted into the party.”(PTI)

  • بلکیز آرا کا کووڈ-19 وبائی امراض کے دوران ایک آشا ورکر کے طور پر لگن

    بلکیز آرا کا کووڈ-19 وبائی امراض کے دوران ایک آشا ورکر کے طور پر لگن

    جی این ایس آنلائن نیوز پورٹل  

    فرحان کتاب

    سرینگر جنوری ۰۹۔۔

    COVID-19 وبائی امراض کے بے مثال اوقات   دوران، متعدد فرنٹ لائن کارکن ہیرو بن کر ابھرے، دن رات برادریوں کی حفاظت کے لیے لڑ رہے ہیں۔ ان بے لوث افراد میں بلکیز آرا، ایک آشا کارکن تھیں جن کی انتھک کوششوں نے اس کی کمیونٹی کو نمایاں طور پر متاثر کیا۔

    آشا کارکنان ہمیشہ ہندوستان کے دیہی صحت کی دیکھ بھال کے نظام کی ریڑھ کی ہڈی رہے ہیں، جو صحت کے شعبے اور مقامی کمیونٹیز کے درمیان ایک اہم ربط کے طور پر کام کرتے ہیں۔ بلقیس آرا نے لگن اور لچک کے جذبے کی مثال دی جو ان کارکنوں کی تعریف کرتی ہے۔ اس کی کہانی عزم، ہمدردی اور ہمت سے عبارت ہے۔

    جب وبائی بیماری آئی تو چیلنجز کئی گنا تھے۔ نامعلوم وائرس کے خوف، محدود وسائل اور کیسز کے بے تحاشہ اضافے نے بے یقینی اور بے چینی کا ماحول پیدا کر دیا۔ تاہم، بلقیس آرا اس موقع پر اٹھ گئیں۔ وہ سمجھتی تھی کہ اس کا کردار پہلے سے کہیں زیادہ اہم ہے، کیونکہ کمیونٹیز صحت کے بحران سے نکلنے کے لیے ASHA کارکنوں کی رہنمائی اور مدد پر بہت زیادہ انحصار کرتی ہیں۔

    بلقیس آرا کی روز مرہ کی ذمہ داریاں تیزی سے پھیلتی گئیں۔ اس نے گھر گھر جا کر خاندانوں کو COVID-19 سے بچاؤ کے اقدامات کے بارے میں آگاہی دی، ماسک پہننے، سماجی فاصلہ برقرار رکھنے اور حفظان صحت کی مشق کرنے کی اہمیت پر زور دیا۔ کمیونٹی کے ارکان کے ساتھ مؤثر طریقے سے بات چیت کرنے کی اس کی صلاحیت نے وائرس کے بارے میں خرافات اور غلط معلومات کو دور کرنے میں مدد کی۔

    اس نے جو اہم کام کیے ان میں سے ایک COVID-19 کیسز کی شناخت اور نگرانی میں مدد کرنا تھا۔ بلکیز نے احتیاط سے رابطوں کا سراغ لگایا، قرنطینہ میں رکھے گئے افراد کی جانچ کی، اور یقینی بنایا کہ انہیں ضروری طبی امداد ملی۔ اس نے ٹیسٹنگ اور ویکسینیشن کیمپوں میں سہولت فراہم کرنے میں ایک اہم کردار ادا کیا، لوگوں کو ویکسین سے متعلق ہچکچاہٹ کے باوجود ویکسین کروانے کی ترغیب دی۔

    وبائی مرض نے جذباتی اور نفسیاتی چیلنجز بھی لائے۔ بلکیز نے اکثر اپنے آپ کو ایسے خاندانوں کی مشاورت کرتے ہوئے پایا جو بیماری، نقصان اور غیر یقینی صورتحال کے تناؤ سے نمٹ رہے تھے۔ اس کے ہمدردانہ انداز نے بہت سے لوگوں کو تسلی دی، اس اعتماد اور احترام کو مزید تقویت بخشی جو اس نے اپنی کمیونٹی میں حاصل کی تھی۔

    اپنی صحت کو لاحق خطرات کے باوجود بلقیس آرا اپنے عزم میں اٹل رہی۔ اس نے حفاظتی پروٹوکول کی پابندی کی، صحت کی دیکھ بھال کرنے والے کارکن اور خاندان کے ایک رکن کے طور پر اپنی ذمہ داریوں میں توازن پیدا کیا۔ اس کی غیر متزلزل لگن نے اس کے ساتھیوں اور کمیونٹی کے ممبروں کو یکساں طور پر متاثر کیا، جس نے بحران کے وقت ایک فرد کے گہرے اثرات کو ظاہر کیا۔

    CoVID-19 وبائی مرض کے دوران بلکیز آرا کا کام ہندوستان کے صحت کی دیکھ بھال کے نظام میں آشا کارکنوں کے ناگزیر کردار کا ثبوت ہے۔ اس کی کہانی ان صف اول کے جنگجوؤں کو پہچاننے اور ان کی حمایت کرنے کی اہمیت کو اجاگر کرتی ہے، جو اکثر محدود وسائل کے ساتھ مشکل حالات میں کام کرتے ہیں۔

    آخر میں، بلکیز آرا کی CoVID-19 وبائی بیماری کے دوران بے لوث خدمات ملک بھر میں آشا کارکنوں کی طرف سے کیے گئے غیر معمولی تعاون کی یاد دہانی کے طور پر کام کرتی ہیں۔ اس کی لگن، لچک اور ہمدردی نے اس کی کمیونٹی پر ایک انمٹ نشان چھوڑا ہے، جو مصیبت کے وقت خدمت کے حقیقی جذبے کو مجسم بناتی ہے۔

  • DC Rajouri finalises implementation of My Bharat Youth Engagement Programme

    DC Rajouri finalises implementation of My Bharat Youth Engagement Programme

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    Reviews Preparations for National Youth Day-2025

    RAJOURI,JAN 09: Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma convened a meeting of the District Level Committee members to discuss and finalize modalities for the effective implementation of the My Bharat Youth Engagement Programme in the district. The meeting, held in the Conference Hall of the DDC Office, also reviewed preparations for the celebration of National Youth Day, 2025 scheduled on January 12.

    The Deputy Commissioner directed all departments to ensure registration on the Mera Yuva Bharat portal, emphasizing its importance in bridging the gap between youth and organizations working for their development. He highlighted that the programme would offer experiential learning opportunities to youth, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge.

    “The youth can play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between Government departments and the general public,” said the DC. “Moreover, their engagement in such programmes will encourage them towards positivity and constructive societal contributions.”

    The DC underscored the need for active departmental engagement in creating awareness among youth about various initiatives, including Government schemes and surveys, Blood donation camps, Life-saving skills in collaboration with the Tourism Department, Campaigns under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Cybercrime awareness, and dissemination of information regarding new laws, such as BNS and BNSS.

    The preparations for National Youth Day 2025 were also reviewed in detail. The Deputy Commissioner called for coordinated efforts to make the event a success, reflecting the spirit and contributions of the youth in nation-building.

    The stakeholder departments were asked to work collectively to ensure the programme’s effective implementation and the successful celebration of National Youth Day.

    The meeting was attended by ADDC Dr Raj Kumar Thapa; ACP Sheraz Chouhan; CPO Maqsood Ahmed; DSEO Sandeep Sharma & officials from other departments, including Education, Health, Youth Services, and Sports, among others.

  • Process to induct 9 JKPS officers into IPS initiated by UT Govt ; Cadre review takes quota from 7 to 9 ; IGP, DIG rank post orders to be issued soon

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    JAMMU JAN 09:-Process to induct nine officers of Jammu and Kashmir Police Services (JKPS) into Indian Police Services (IPS) has been initiated and is expected to be expedited after issuance of the formal orders for posting of one JKPS officer in IGP-equivalent and six in DIG-equivalent rank in the next few days.Jammu local businesses

    Officials told the Excelsior that there were seven vacancies for induction of JKPS officers into IPS but with just concluded cadre review of AGMUT Cadre IPS in which Senior Duty Posts of IPS have gone up from 70 to 74, the induction vacancies of State Police Services have gone up to nine.

    “Process to fill up the induction posts of IPS with JKPS officers has been initiated and will be expedited after formal issuance of order of the JKPS officers who have been elevated to IGP and DIG-equivalent posts recently without their induction into the IPS as per new rules of Jammu and Kashmir Police Gazetted Services,” they said.
    Two new posts of induction will have effect from January 1, 2025 when fresh IPS cadre review came into effect while seven posts will have the back dated effect when they fell vacant.

    Presently, the IPS posts are being filled up with 67:33 ratio i.e. out of total posts of IPS 67 percent are given to Regular Recruits (direct IPS officers) and 33 percent to State Police Services (induction of JKPS officers into IPS). The UPA Government had changed the criteria to 50:50 but the BJP Government after taking over in 2014 restored 67:33 quota at par with other States and Union Territories.

    During past over three years, nearly 44 JKPS officers have been inducted into IPS while in about a decade i.e. from 2011 to 2021, not a single induction was made because of a variety of reasons including legal wrangles.

    “The JKPS officers of 1999 batch are going to be beneficiaries of the inductions as per the seniority list. The JKPS officers whose elevation to IGP-equivalent and DIG-equivalent ranks has been cleared also belonged to the same batch,” the officials said, adding that orders of elevation of seven officers (IGP and DIG ranks posts) are expected to be formally issued within the next few days, most likely before the Republic Day celebrations.

    The promotion of JKPS officers to the posts of Directors in different departments equivalent to the rank of DIG became possible following amendments made in Jammu and Kashmir Police Services Rules by the Government. As per the Rules, only IPS officers can be promoted as DIGs but there was prolonged delay in induction of JKPS officers into IPS due to variety of reasons, a result of which not many officers could be inducted.

    However, during past over three years, 44 JKPS officers were inducted into IPS after over a decade. But the inductions were not enough and many JKPS officers have been working on the posts of SSPs for a long time and won’t be able to become DIGs unless they are inducted into IPS.

    A number of JKPS officers in Jammu and Kashmir retired as SSPs as they couldn’t be inducted into IPS.

    As per the new Rules, six JKPS officers can be posted on DIG-equivalent posts followed by two on IGP-equivalent posts.

    Two posts identified for JKPS officers in the IGP equivalent rank include Commissioner Civil Military Liaison and Commissioner Investigations Human Rights while six posts in the DIG equivalent include Special Director, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Director Civil Defence and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Kashmir, Director Home Guards Jammu, Director Home Guards Kashmir, Additional Director State Investigation Agency (SIA) and Director Commando Training Centre (CTC) Lethpora.

    Eligibility for posting of JKPS officers against the posts of Directors is 18 years while for the posts of Commissioners, the service requirement is 22 years.

    Meanwhile, number of senior duty posts of IPS in Jammu and Kashmir has risen from 70 to 74 following cadre review done by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

    These posts will include one post of DGP and one post of DGP Prisons; four posts of ADGPs; nine posts of IGPs; 15 posts of DIGs; three posts of Assistant Inspector Generals of Police; 32 posts of SPs; 3 posts of Commandants of Armed Police; two posts of ASP; one post of Director (SSF) and three posts of Commandant, (India Reserve Battalion).

    In the case of Ladakh, these posts will include one post of DGP (in the rank of ADGP); one post of IGP; two posts of DIGs three posts each of SP (Level 12) and SP (Level-11).

  • Wind up INDIA bloc if it was for Lok Sabha polls only: CM Omar Abdullah

    Wind up INDIA bloc if it was for Lok Sabha polls only: CM Omar Abdullah

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SRINAGAR JAN 09:-(KNO): Jammu and Kashmir chief minister, Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that the INDIA bloc should wind up if the alliance was for the Lok Sabha polls only.

    Speaking to reporters, Omar, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that it is unfortunate that not a single meeting of INDIA bloc was held for a long time now. “There is no clarity of leadership and agenda in INDIA bloc. The alliance was not forged for a specific period,” he said.

    He added that after Delhi elections, a meeting should be convened to come clear over the agenda and leadership. “The INDIA bloc should wind up if it was formed for Lok Sabha elections only,” he said—(KNO)

  • DC Rajouri conducts surprise inspection of Govt offices; Takes stock of services delivery

    DC Rajouri conducts surprise inspection of Govt offices; Takes stock of services delivery

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    RAJOURI, JAN 09:- To enhance public services delivery and ensure accountability among government functionaries, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma, along with Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Raj Kumar Thapa, conducted a surprise inspection of the government offices, including the Block Development Office (BDO) Rajouri and the office of the Executive Engineer, Rural Development Department (RDD).

    The inspection aimed at reviewing the functioning of these offices, checking the punctuality and conduct of employees and addressing any shortcomings in providing services to the general public.

    During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with applicants who had come to these offices to avail various services. He inquired about their experiences and the challenges they faced, assuring them of the administration’s commitment to resolving grievances promptly.

    *Interacting with the staff, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma emphasized the importance of punctuality and efficient grievance redressal mechanisms. “The public must not face any hurdles while availing the benefits of government schemes like MGNREGA. As the District Programme Coordinator of MGNREGA, I am committed to ensuring smooth and transparent implementation of this flagship program,” he said*

    *He informed that the directions have been issued to ensure the best possible improvement in public services. “Any loopholes identified during the inspection will be fixed, and appropriate action will be taken as per the law,” the Deputy Commissioner added.*

    The Deputy Commissioner issued clear directions to all officials to prioritize timely and efficient resolution of public grievances and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. He further stressed the need for proactive measures to identify and address any gaps in service delivery.

  • Rajouri Police Attach Property of Pak Based Terror Handler in Thanamandi Rajdhani 

    Rajouri Police Attach Property of Pak Based Terror Handler in Thanamandi Rajdhani 

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

    RAJOURI JAN 09:-In a significant action, the property of Javid Iqbal S/O Qudrat Ullah resident of Rajdhani Rajouri who is wanted in connection with FIR No. 18/2011 registered at Police Station Manjakote under Sections 2/3 of the EIMCO Act, has been attached.

    The Land measuring 2 kanals and 1 marla, located in village Rajdhani, was attached following orders obtained from the Hon’ble Court, Rajouri. This action was executed in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and as per the due legal process.

    This individual is accused of activities linked to supporting anti-national elements. The attachment of properties is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle networks of Pakistan-based handlers and their associates operating in the region.

    The District Police remains committed to curbing anti-national activities in the District Rajouri.

  • Devigoal Bunjwah’s Potential Awaits: A Call for a Snow Festival

    Devigoal Bunjwah’s Potential Awaits: A Call for a Snow Festival

    GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

    SHAFQAT SHEIKH

    CHENAB VALLEY JAN 09:Upon the arrival of winter, Devigoal Bunjwah evolves into a picturesque snow-clad haven, captivating tourists and adventure-seekers. Despite its considerable potential, the area remains relatively unexplored. We suggest that the district administration contemplate hosting a snow festival at Devigole Bunjwah.

    Devigoal Bunjwah, nestled in the Bunjwah region of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is a majestic high-altitude meadow distinguished by its peaceful beauty. The area is characterized by lush green pastures, dense forests, and spectacular mountain views, making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. Devigoal, commonly referred to as the “Mini Gulmarg,” offers a serene retreat from urban life, featuring a tranquil ambience and an unspoiled environment. The meadow also possesses significant cultural and religious importance for local communities, being associated with various festivals and traditional gatherings. With its pristine landscapes and distinctive charm, Devigoal Bunjwah is a prime destination for those seeking natural beauty and solitude.

    While engaging with the author, the Youth Leader and Socio-Political Activist imagined the snow festival as an opportunity for enthusiasts to converge and showcase the region’s awe-inspiring beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exhilarating winter sports opportunities. Moreover, the festival would afford tourists a unique platform to experience the allure of Devigoal Bunjwah while promoting local artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs.

    Younus Keen highlighted that Devigoal Bunjwah possesses significant potential, comparable to prominent tourist destinations such as Gulmarg. Nevertheless, he regretted that the region had been neglected by the government and administration. “It’s time for us to unlock Devigoal Bunjwah’s potential and showcase it on the global tourism map,” he added.

    During a conversation with Ashiq Wani, Lazawal Correspondent, he applauded Dr Devansh Yadav’s initiatives in organizing the Devigoal Festival during his tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar. Dr. Yadav’s efforts promoted tourism, upgraded infrastructure, and supported community development.

    The local community has drawn significant inspiration from Dr Yadav’s vision for Devigoal Bunjwah’s development, and his dedication to promoting tourism and enhancing infrastructure has set the stage for future growth. “We need to seize the momentum generated by Dr. Yadav’s initiative and transform Devigoal Bunjwah into a premier tourist destination,” Wani stressed.

    Hosting a snow festival at Devigoal Bunjwah offers numerous benefits. By attracting tourists and generating revenue for local businesses, it would also create employment opportunities for the youth and help preserve the region’s cultural heritage. Moreover, the festival would drive infrastructure development in the region, including the enhancement of roads, accommodation facilities, and other essential services. Key benefits of the festival include:

    Tourism and Revenue Generation: Welcoming tourists from across the globe to experience the region’s breathtaking beauty and unique culture, generating significant revenue for local businesses. Similar to other renowned tourist destinations, Bunjwah is on par with Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Patnitop, and other regions, featuring an abundance of lofty mountains, meadows, springs, and shared boundaries with other regions of the country.

    Infrastructure Development: Enhance roads, transportation, accommodation facilities, and essential services to provide seamless access and a comfortable experience for visitors. The historic Bunjwah road must be prioritized for swift completion and pending works finalized to establish Devi Goal Bunjwah as a prominent tourist destination.

    Promotion of Tourism: Bunjwah is a vast region that necessitates promotion in the tourism sector, given its vast potential encompassing areas such as Devigoal, Padhran, Kither, Nakka, Thareda, Pattarnag, Malipeth, Lanka Top, Tiba Top, Kanow, Chunjali, Kalinag, and other regions.

    Leading socio-political activists have exhorted the district administration to acknowledge and endorse the Devigoal Bunjwah Snow Festival proposal, an aspiration still in its infancy. We are confident that the synergistic efforts of the administration, residents, and stakeholders will elevate this festival to an iconic event, unveiling Devigoal Bunjwah’s hidden treasures and potential to a global audience.

    Let us collaborate to unlock the full potential of Devigoal Bunjwah and ensure the snow festival is a resounding success! The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, along with the Kishtwar Development Authority and District Administration Kishtwar, must come forward to organise a Snow festival at Devigoal Bunjwah to acknowledge the tourism potential of Bunjwah on a national level.

    (The author is a Freelance Writer and Columnist from Bunjwah Kishtwar and can be reached at freelancershafqat@gmail.com, 9419974577)