SRINAGAR/BHADERWAH, May 6, 2025 — Bhalessa, a remote region in Jammu & Kashmir’s Doda district, is set to transform its educational landscape with the opening of Kendriya Vidyalaya Bhalessa, which will start classes for grades first to fifth within a month. At the same time, preparations for the Amarnath Yatra 2025, scheduled from July 3 to August 9, are intensifying, though escalating tensions along the Line of Control cast a shadow over the region’s tourism-dependent economy.
The Kendriya Vidyalaya, a decades-long dream for Bhalessa, was realized through the persistent efforts of MLA Dilip Singh Parihar, who secured necessary approvals and funding. “This school is a gateway to opportunity for our children,” Parihar declared at a community gathering. Operating under the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), the school will initially serve over 200 students, offering modern facilities and adherence to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Local residents celebrated the milestone, noting its potential to reduce the need for children to travel far for quality education.
Simultaneously, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed construction progress at the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board’s Office and Yatri Niwas at Pantha Chowk, Srinagar, stressing timely completion to accommodate pilgrims. The Yatri Niwas, designed to house 3,000 devotees, incorporates advanced features like RFID tracking and digital payments, aligning with J&K’s transparency efforts highlighted in the Directorate of Information & Public Relations’ (DIPR) Info Connect magazine, launched by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo. With over 3.5 lakh registrations, the Yatra faces challenges from a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, raising security concerns.
J&K’s tourism sector is bracing for a “long lull” after a deadly attack triggered widespread cancellations. Srinagar’s Dal Lake, known for its Shikara rides, has seen a sharp decline in visitors, with houseboat operators like Yaseen Tuman reporting no bookings. Despite this, tourists like Faizan Ansari encourage visits, praising the region’s hospitality and serene beauty. Info Connect promotes these attractions, aiming to rebuild confidence amidst fears of prolonged economic strain.
As Bhalessa embraces educational advancement and the Amarnath Yatra prepares to welcome pilgrims, Jammu & Kashmir balances developmental strides with regional uncertainties, leaning on education and spiritual heritage for resilience.
