National

J-K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Issues Alert on Escalating Water Crisis

Published

1 year ago

February 19, 2025

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a warning about a potential drought due to minimal rainfall and snowfall this winter. He emphasized the need for collective action to address the escalating water crisis in the Union Territory (UT).
“Residents of J&K must not take water for granted,” he stated on X.

Omar’s alarm follows reports of numerous natural springs and water bodies drying up throughout the UT, resulting in a significant drinking water shortage in various areas of both the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region. He further noted, “J&K is facing a water crisis this year. This issue has been developing over several years. While the government must adopt a proactive stance on water management and conservation, it cannot solely be a government-driven initiative.

All residents of J&K need to reassess how we view water as an endless resource. I will be reviewing the actions that the Jal Shakti (PHE) Department plans to implement to address this emerging crisis and will engage with the people of J&K over the upcoming months to discuss what we can undertake together.”

The ongoing dry conditions have led not only to the depletion of water bodies but also to several forest fires in affected regions. Additionally, the lack of sufficient snowfall on the slopes of Gulmarg has compelled the authorities to postpone the Kashmir segment of the Khelo India Winter Games.

The meteorological department has warned of a possible drought in the Kashmir Valley arising from a dry winter, with a reported precipitation deficit of around 80% during January and February. Many areas along the riverbed of the Jhelum have become visible due to low water levels.

In South Kashmir, several natural water springs that feed lakes and rivers across the valley have already run dry. The Chenab River, typically known for its turbulent flow, is also experiencing reduced water discharge, which may negatively impact power generation since many hydroelectric projects are situated along its banks. This reduction could further affect drinking water supplies in at least six districts within the Jammu region.

Community members in villages experiencing drinking water shortages have begun to protest, notably in South Kashmir. The Achhabal water spring has dried up, and both it and the Aripath rivulet are the primary drinking water sources for numerous villages. Reports indicate that the Aripal spring has also succumbed to drought conditions.

In response, Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, announced that “We will provide free water through tankers to areas in Jammu facing shortages.”

National

Jammu University Introduces Fuel-Saving Measures

Published

4 days ago

May 14, 2026

Namma Kudla

National : The University of Jammu has announced several fuel-saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai said the university has decided to conduct all PhD viva voce examinations online to reduce travel and save fuel.

The university will also prefer virtual speakers for national and international conferences. In another step, the Academic Council meeting planned in Poonch has been shifted to the Jammu University campus to avoid unnecessary travel.

Prof Rai said the measures will help save fuel, time and resources. He also encouraged university staff to use bicycles and carpool while travelling to the campus.

National

One Year On: Pahalgam Attack Still Haunts the Nation

Published

4 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: One year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the nation remembers the 26 people who lost their lives. The attack took place on April 22 at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot.

At first, reports said only five people were injured. Later, it became clear that it was one of the worst terror attacks in the region in decades. Terrorists came out of the forest and opened fire on tourists.

Survivors said the attackers separated men from women and children. They then shot the men at close range. Many victims were reportedly targeted after being asked about their religion.

A heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal sitting beside her husband’s body became a symbol of the tragedy. Her husband, a naval officer, was among those killed.

The group The Resistance front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

After months of tracking, security forces launched Operation Mahadev. On July 28, 2025, all three terrorists were killed after a long search operation.

The attack remains a painful memory and a reminder of the need for strong security.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.