Author: News Desk Kashmir Ahead

Srinagar, June 11, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed the ceremonial ‘Pratham Puja’ at the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine, marking the formal commencement of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. The pilgrimage is set to begin on July 3, 2025, and will conclude on August 9, 2025, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. The 38-day spiritual journey to the sacred cave, located in the Himalayas, is expected to draw lakhs of devotees to pay obeisance to the naturally formed ice Shiva Lingam, a revered symbol of Lord Shiva. “Har Har Mahadev! Paid my obeisance to Baba Barfani and performed…

In a significant boost to rural connectivity, Jammu and Kashmir has secured the first approval under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV), with the Union Ministry of Rural Development sanctioning 316 road projects worth Rs. 4,224 crore. This is the largest-ever rural road package for J&K, aimed at connecting 390 habitations across 1,781 kilometers of all-weather roads, enhancing access to education, healthcare, and markets in remote areas. The projects, part of Batch-I of PMGSY-IV, will drive economic growth by linking underserved villages, particularly in hilly terrains, to development hubs. J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and…

Kathua, June 10, 2025: Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Lakhanpur corridor to assess and finalize arrangements for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, set to commence on July 3, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, a significant spiritual journey for Hindu devotees, is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims daily through Lakhanpur, the primary entry point to Jammu and Kashmir. The inspection focused on ensuring robust civic amenities and infrastructure to facilitate a seamless and safe experience for pilgrims. DC Minhas directed the Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) to…

Srinagar, June 11, 2025 – In a heartwarming display of interfaith harmony, Muslims, Sikhs, and Kashmiri Pandits came together in Jammu and Kashmir to celebrate the Kheer Bhawani Mela and the Urs of Shah-e-Hamdan (RA), two significant religious events that coincided in a rare convergence of devotion and unity. The gatherings, held at the revered Kheer Bhawani temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, and the historic Khanqah-e-Moula shrine in Srinagar, radiated peace, shared heritage, and mutual respect, showcasing Kashmir’s syncretic cultural ethos. The Kheer Bhawani Mela, an annual festival dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, drew thousands of Kashmiri Pandits to the sacred…

Srinagar, June 11, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir is enduring a relentless heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting scorching conditions for at least four more days. The extreme weather, gripping both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions, has pushed temperatures to record highs, prompting authorities to issue advisories for residents and stakeholders, including those preparing for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. On Tuesday, Samba district recorded a blistering 46.6°C, the highest in the region, while Jammu city sweltered at 44.4°C. In the Kashmir Valley, traditionally cooler, Srinagar hit 33.3°C, Qazigund reached 33.6°C, and even tourist hotspots like Pahalgam and Gulmarg…

Srinagar, June 11, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited Sonamarg in Ganderbal district on Tuesday to engage with stakeholders involved in the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, scheduled from July 3 to August 9, 2025. The visit underscores the J&K administration’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and secure pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath Cave Shrine, located at 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas. During his visit, LG Sinha interacted with representatives of the Sonamarg Market Association, hoteliers, ponywalas, and other service providers critical to the yatra’s operations. The delegations raised several key issues related to infrastructure,…

Katra, June 10, 2025: National Conference chief and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, arrived at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station on the newly inaugurated Srinagar-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express. Overwhelmed with emotion, Abdullah remarked, “Mata ne bulaya hai. Aaya hai bulawa shera wali ka,” expressing his spiritual connection to the revered shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. The Vande Bharat train, operating from Nowgam Railway Station in Srinagar, marks a significant milestone in enhancing rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. Abdullah, accompanied by other leaders and MLAs,…

Shopian, June 10, 2025: In a significant step toward inclusive development, Shopian district is launching the Dharti Aaba Janbhagidari Abhiyan, a transformative campaign under the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh initiative. From June 15 to 30, 2025, the tribal villages of Kathohallan (June 15–22) and Pahlipora (June 23–30) in Block Keller will host awareness and benefit saturation camps to deliver key government schemes to tribal communities. Deputy Commissioner Shishir Gupta emphasized the campaign’s mission to achieve last-mile delivery of welfare programs, ensuring no eligible beneficiary is overlooked. “This is a golden opportunity to uplift our tribal brothers and sisters. I urge everyone…

New Delhi, June 10, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah arrived in Delhi today to engage with central government leaders on restoring statehood and addressing regional challenges, including the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India-Pakistan border tensions. Abdullah’s visit follows his June 6 speech at the Vande Bharat Express launch, where he urged PM Modi to restore J&K’s statehood, humorously noting his “demotion” to Union Territory CM. Discussions in Delhi are expected to build on his May 3 meeting with Modi, focusing on the Pahalgam attack that killed 26, mostly tourists, and the…

Kishtwar, June 10,2025- Gandhari Valley in Paddar, Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, is a pristine haven where nature, culture, and spirituality intertwine. Tucked amidst towering mountains, this hidden gem offers pure air, crystal-clear water, and untouched landscapes, perfect for a rejuvenating escape. Ideal for adventurers and peace-seekers, the valley’s scenic trails beckon for a lifetime trek, with eco-tourism initiatives ensuring sustainable exploration. Immerse in vibrant Padari culture through folk dances, devotional bhajans, and festivals like the Bhadon Sankranti fair. Savor authentic Padari cuisine, featuring hearty, locally sourced dishes that reflect the region’s rustic charm. At the valley’s heart lies the sacred…