The Quick Update

KCCI Delegation Meets LG Manoj Sinha, Discusses Trade and Tourism Growth in J&K

Javid Tenga Urges Focus on Business Growth and Economic Revival in J&K

Srinagar, May 27: A high-level delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by its President Javid Ahmad Tenga, on Tuesday met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to deliberate upon a wide range of issues concerning business, trade, tourism and the broader economic landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.

During the interaction, the KCCI delegation projected several matters linked to the growth and expansion of commercial activities in the Union Territory, while stressing the need for sustained policy support to strengthen the business ecosystem. The representatives highlighted challenges faced by various sectors and called for focused measures to further improve economic opportunities, industrial development and investment prospects across Jammu & Kashmir.

The meeting also witnessed detailed discussions on the revival and promotion of the tourism sector, which continues to remain a crucial pillar of the region’s economy. The delegation emphasized the importance of enhancing infrastructure, improving connectivity and ensuring a business-friendly atmosphere to attract greater tourist inflow and commercial engagement.

According to an official communiqué, the Chamber members also appreciated the Lieutenant Governor-led administration for its continued campaign against drug abuse under the “Nasha Mukt J&K” initiative. The delegation described the anti-drug drive as a timely and socially significant intervention aimed at safeguarding the younger generation and addressing the alarming spread of substance abuse in society.

KCCI members observed that tackling the drug menace is essential not only for social stability but also for preserving the productive strength of the region’s youth and ensuring a healthier future for Jammu & Kashmir.

The interaction further focused on measures aimed at strengthening the trade and tourism sectors, improving the ease of doing business and accelerating overall economic development in the Union Territory. The Lieutenant Governor assured the delegation that the administration remains committed to facilitating sustainable growth and addressing genuine concerns of the business community.

The meeting reflected a continued engagement between the administration and trade bodies on issues vital to economic progress, investment confidence and the long-term development of Jammu & Kashmir.

Eid-ul-Adha Prayers Draw Massive Gatherings Across Kashmir

Hazratbal and Shalimar Lead Grand Eid-ul-Adha Gatherings in Srinagar

Srinagar, May 27: Thousands of devotees across Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley offered Eid-ul-Adha prayers in a spiritually charged atmosphere on Thursday, with major congregations witnessed at Hazratbal Shrine, Shalimar Garden, Sonwar and several mosques and shrines across the city.

Dargah Hazratbal once again emerged as the largest focal point of Eid prayers, drawing massive gatherings along the banks of Dal Lake.

Meanwhile, the historic Mughal-era Shalimar Garden witnessed one of the biggest open-air congregations this year, as men, women and children assembled amid the scenic backdrop to offer Salah in unity and devotion.

With congregational prayers barred for the 8th consecutive year at Jamia Masjid Nowhatta and the historic Eidgah ground, worshippers were redirected to alternative venues including Shalimar, Hazratbal and local mosques.

Authorities had put elaborate security, sanitation and traffic arrangements in place to facilitate smooth celebrations across the city.

Following prayers, families returned home for Qurbani rituals, gatherings and festive meals, marking Eid-ul-Adha with faith, sacrifice and togetherness.

Heavy Gunfire, Explosions Rock Rajouri Woods on Fourth Day Amid Ongoing Operation Sheruwali

Srinagar, May 26: A massive anti-terror operation, codenamed Operation Sheruwali, continued for the fourth consecutive day in the dense forest belt of Dori Maal–Gambhir Mughlan in the Manjakote sector of Rajouri district, as security forces tightened the cordon around suspected militants believed to be hiding in the rugged terrain.

The operation, launched on May 23 following specific intelligence inputs regarding the movement of 2–3 suspected terrorists, is being jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force.

Officials said the operation has evolved into a prolonged and highly strategic search mission due to the difficult forested landscape that offers natural concealment to militants.

According to reports, initial contact with the suspected terrorists was established on Saturday morning, triggering a brief exchange of fire. However, the militants reportedly managed to escape deeper into the dense woods, prompting security forces to widen the search grid and deploy additional reinforcements.

On the third day of the operation, intense gunfire and loud explosions echoed through the Dori Maal forests as security forces advanced further into the suspected hideout zones. During the searches, forces reportedly busted a militant hideout concealed within thick natural vegetation.

Recovery of food packets, water supplies, pithu bags, and suspected traces of bloodstains indicated that the militants may have been preparing for a prolonged stay in the jungle and could possibly have sustained injuries during the exchanges.

Security agencies have since intensified aerial and ground surveillance using drones, sniffer dogs, and advanced tracking equipment to trace the movement of the suspected militants. The area remains under a tight security cordon amid intermittent firing and continued combing operations.

Senior officers, including the IGP Jammu and IG CRPF, visited the operation site to review the progress and coordinate the ongoing strategy. Officials, however, have not confirmed any casualties so far, dismissing several unverified claims circulating on social media.

The Rajouri-Poonch belt has witnessed repeated counter-insurgency operations in recent years owing to its proximity to the Line of Control and infiltration routes frequently exploited by militants.

Security officials maintain that forest belts in the Pir Panjal region continue to be used as temporary shelters by infiltrating groups attempting to establish presence in the hinterland.

Authorities said the operation remains active and sensitive, with further details expected only after the mission concludes.