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Approving Rs 100 Cr Fisheries Cluster In Anantnag Symbol Of PM Modi Led Govt’s Commitment Towards J&K: LG Sinha

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Approving Rs 100 Cr Fisheries Cluster In Anantnag Symbol Of PM Modi Led Govt’s Commitment Towards J&K: LG Sinha

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to emerge as a national model for integrated fisheries development, as India consolidates its position as the second-largest fish-producing country in the world.

Addressing the National Coldwater Fisheries Conference at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, the LG Manoj Sinha as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said it is a matter of great pride and happiness to host the conference in J&K.

He congratulated the Union Minister for approving a RS 100-crore fisheries cluster in Anantnag even before arriving in Srinagar, calling it a symbol of the Government of India’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Highlighting India’s achievements, he said the fisheries sector contributes approximately 7.3% to agricultural GDP, with exports having doubled since 2013-14. “Just as India led the White Revolution in dairy, we aim to become the world’s largest producer of fish,” he said, stressing the role of technological advancement and policy support.

On regional development, the LG shared progress under the Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP). “Trout production has increased from 1,663 tons in 2021-22 to 2,650 tons in 2024-25.”

He said J&K utilizes approximately 27,000 hectares of water resources for fisheries development. HADP’s 29 interlinked projects are expected to double the contribution of agriculture and allied sectors to the region’s GDP.

LG Sinha highlighted challenges facing the sector, including climate change, rising water temperatures, water scarcity, slow growth of indigenous species, and fish health risks.

He stressed the need for a scientific roadmap focusing on genetic improvement of trout and carp, climate-resilient production systems, aquatic health management and indigenous feed development.

Innovative solutions, such as drone-based transport of fresh fish from high-altitude farms, were also discussed to reduce spoilage and improve logistics.

The LG further highlighted several strategic initiatives, including the Trout Integrated Aqua Park at Kokernag with recreational, marketing and value-addition facilities, the National Vision 2030 plan to double Trout and Mahseer production across Himalayan states and financial support programs such as Kisan Credit Cards and insurance, being extended to lakhs of fishermen.

LG Sinha further said, “By integrating production with cold storage, processing, packaging and branding, Jammu and Kashmir can become a national model in fisheries, creating employment and increasing fish farmers’ incomes.” (KNO)

Over 2 Lakh Blooming Tulips Ready To Welcome Visitors At Picturesque Sanasar

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Over 2 Lakh Blooming Tulips Ready To Welcome Visitors At Picturesque Sanasar

More than two lakh blooming tulips are ready to attract tourists at picturesque Sanasar, nestled in the lush green meadows in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Tulip garden at Sanasar is, however, expected to be thrown open for the public soon marking the beginning of new tourist season.

“Jammu’s first Tulip Garden at Sanasar in district Ramban, has become a vibrant floral destination. With more than two lakh tulips in 25 distinct varieties, it is all set to attract visitors from across the country and it will further enhance the tourism potential of the region,” Mohammad Alyas Khan, Deputy Commissioner, Ramban here today said.

He said that hundreds of blooming tulip flowers on 35 kanals of land at a scenic location is absolutely mesmerising, adding, “this year 25 varieties of tulips are planted at Sanasar garden.”

“The Golf course is also being developed by the Patnitop Development Authority to start with golfing activities at Sanasar along with other additional development activities for overall upgradation of this scenic tourist spot,” said Khan.

“The activity calendar shall focus on promotion of all such destinations and special impetus shall be provided to publicizing Patnitop and Sanasar as ‘Wedding Destination’ and ‘Film Shooting Destination’ especially amongst interested clientele of these categories,” he added.

“As rush of tourists will gradually rise in the coming days, they will enjoy the scenic Tulip garden on their visit to Sanasar,” Vikrant Sharma, District Officer, Department of Floriculture here said.

He said that 25 varieties of more than two lakh Tulip flowers will be in full bloom and the garden will be thrown open soon for the public, adding he said, “Jammu and Kashmir is endowed with unparalleled beauty and natural landscapes which have huge potential for tourism.”

He appealed to people to visit in large numbers and have a glimpse of blooming tulip flowers.

Notably, in 2023, the project was sanctioned by the Government to develop the largest Tulip Garden of Jammu division that is spread over a large piece of land. (Agencies)

Crude Oil Prices Spike Above $115 A Barrel As Iran War Impedes Production, Shipping

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Crude Oil Prices Spike Above $115 A Barrel As Iran War Impedes Production, Shipping

Oil prices spiked near $120 per barrel before falling back slightly on Monday as the Iran war intensified, threatening production and shipping in the Middle East and pummelling financial markets.

The price for a barrel of Brent crude, the international standard, surged to $119.50 per barrel but later was trading at $112.98.

West Texas Intermediate, the light, sweet crude oil produced in the United States, spiked at $119.48 per barrel but fell back to $110.17.

The war’s toll on civilian targets grew as Bahrain accused Iran of striking a desalination plant vital to drinking water supplies, and oil depots in Tehran smoldered following overnight Israeli strikes.

Oil prices have surged as the war, now in its second week, ensnares countries and places that are critical to the production and movement of oil and gas from the Persian Gulf.

Roughly 15 million barrels of crude oil — about 20% of the world’s oil — typically are shipped every day through the Strait of Hormuz, according to independent research firm Rystad Energy.

The threat of Iranian missile and drone attacks has all but stopped tankers from travelling through the strait, which is bordered in the north by Iran, carry oil and gas from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

Iraq, Kuwait and the UAE have cut their oil production as storage tanks fill due to the reduced ability to export crude. Iran, Israel and the United States also have attacked oil and gas facilities since the war started, exacerbating supply concerns.

The surge in costs for oil and natural gas is pushing fuel prices higher, cascading through other industries and jolting Asian economies that are especially vulnerable due to the region’s heavy reliance on imports from the Middle East.

The last time Brent and US crude futures traded near the current level was in 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Higher energy costs push inflation higher, straining household budgets and denting the consumer spending that is a main driver of many big economies.

Tokyo’s benchmark Nikkei 225 index plunged more than 7% early Monday, while other markets also foundered.

In the US, a gallon of regular gasoline rose to $3.45 on Sunday, about 47 cents more than a week earlier, according to AAA motor club. Diesel was selling for about $4.60 a gallon, a weekly increase of about 83 cents.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright, speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union,” said US gas prices would be back under $3 a gallon “before too long.”

“Look, you never know exactly the time frame of this, but, in the worst case, this is a weeks, this is not a months thing,” Wright added.

If oil prices stay above $100 per barrel, some analysts and investors say it could be too much for the global economy to withstand.

Iranian authorities said strikes by Israel on oil depots in Tehran and a petroleum transfer terminal early Sunday killed four people. Israel’s military said the depots were being used by Iran’s military for fuel to launch missiles. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, warned that the war’s impact on the oil industry would spiral.

Iran exports roughly 1.6 million barrels of oil a day, mostly to China, which may need to look elsewhere for supply if Iran’s exports are disrupted, another factor that could increase energy prices.

The price of natural gas also has climbed during the war, though not by as much as oil. It was selling for about $3.33 per 1,000 cubic feet late Sunday. That’s 4.6% higher than its Friday closing price of $3.19, after rising about 11% last week.

US stock index futures fell early Monday, pointing to likely losses for Wall Street’s main indexes when they open.

On Friday, the S&P 500 dropped 1.3% and the Dow plunged as many as 945 points before finishing with a loss of roughly 450. The Nasdaq composite sank 1.6%.

Reasi District Lawn Tennis Open Championship Concludes at Katra

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Reasi District Lawn Tennis Open Championship Concludes at Katra

The first-ever Reasi District Lawn Tennis Open Championship concluded at the Lawn Tennis Complex of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, featuring a series of competitive matches across multiple categories.

The tournament was inaugurated by Ashok Kumar, Senior Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir Lawn Tennis Association and former Director of Sports at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Men’s Under-40 Category

In the Men’s Under-40 singles category, Pratham Arora defeated Sanjan Kumar by 6–2 in the quarterfinals, while Saksham Amla overcame Saurya Veer with a 6–3 victory.

During the semifinals, Hardeep Singh dominated Mihit Saxena by 6–2, while Pratham Arora advanced after receiving a walkover.

In the final, Hardeep Singh emerged champion, defeating Pratham Arora 6–2, 6–3 to claim the Men’s Under-40 singles title.

Doubles and Above-40 Results

In the Men’s Doubles final, the pair of Sanjay Kotwal and Arun Baru defeated Nishant Sharma and Rinka Kapoor with a score of 8–5.

In the Men’s Singles Above-40 category, Sanjay Kotwal beat Nishant Sharma 6–4 in the semifinal, while Arun Baru edged past Rinka Kapoor 6–5, 7–5 in a closely contested match. Kotwal later clinched the title by defeating Arun Baru 8–4 in the final.

Women’s Singles Final

The Women’s Singles title was won by Palvi Parihar, who defeated Vinamrata 4–3, 7–3 in the final.

The prize distribution ceremony was conducted by Dhruv Gupta, Director of Sports at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, who presented trophies and awards to the winners and participants, marking the successful conclusion of the championship.

Kejriwal Asks PM Modi If Iran Will Allow Indian Ships Through Strait of Hormuz

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Kejriwal Asks PM Modi If Iran Will Allow Indian Ships Through Strait of Hormuz

Arvind Kejriwal, convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party and former Chief Minister of Delhi, on Friday asked Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, whether Iran had assured that Indian ships would be allowed to pass through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Kejriwal’s remarks came a day after Prime Minister Modi held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating situation in West Asia.

During the conversation, Modi emphasised that the safety and security of Indian nationals in the region and the uninterrupted transit of goods and energy supplies remain India’s top priorities.

Kejriwal Raises Question on Social Media

In a post on X, Kejriwal asked whether the Iranian leadership had assured India that its ships would be allowed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Prime Minister, has the President of Iran assured you that they will allow our ships to pass through Hormuz? Will the countrymen soon be rid of this serious crisis?” Kejriwal wrote in Hindi.

Shipping Route Remains Critical

The remarks come amid growing concerns over disruptions in maritime traffic after Iran reportedly closed the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes through which a substantial portion of India’s energy imports pass.

According to reports, three days ago an oil carrier heading towards India was fired upon by Iranian forces while attempting to cross the strait, further raising tensions in the region.

The situation has intensified concerns over global energy supplies and maritime security as the conflict in West Asia continues to escalate.

Supreme Court Stays Part of Delhi High Court Order in Mahua Moitra Cash-for-Query Case

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Supreme Court Stays Part of Delhi High Court Order in Mahua Moitra Cash-for-Query Case

The Supreme Court of India on Friday stayed a portion of a December 2025 order passed by the Delhi High Court, which had allowed the Lokpal of India to consider granting sanction to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a chargesheet against Mahua Moitra, a Member of Parliament from the All India Trinamool Congress, in the alleged cash-for-query scam.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued notices to Moitra, the CBI, and Nishikant Dubey, BJP MP and complainant in the case, on a plea filed by the Lokpal challenging the high court’s order.

High Court Order Challenged

On December 19, 2025, the Delhi High Court had set aside an earlier order of the Lokpal that granted sanction to the CBI to file a chargesheet against Moitra in the alleged scam.

In its judgment, the high court had directed the Lokpal to reconsider the matter. In paragraph 89 of the ruling, it stated that the Lokpal should examine the issue of sanction under Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, specifically under Section 20, within one month.

The Supreme Court bench has now stayed the implementation of this part of the high court’s order while issuing notices in a batch of petitions concerning the powers and procedures under Section 20 of the Act.

Background of the Case

The alleged cash-for-query case involves accusations that Mahua Moitra raised questions in the Lok Sabha in exchange for cash and gifts from a businessman.

The Delhi High Court verdict had come on a petition filed by Moitra challenging the Lokpal’s November 12, 2025 order granting sanction to the CBI to file a chargesheet against her.

Following the high court’s decision to set aside its order, the Lokpal approached the Supreme Court seeking relief.

Over 23,000 Grievances from J&K Received on CPGRAMS in Three Years

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Over 23,000 Grievances from J&K Received on CPGRAMS in Three Years

More than 23,000 grievances related to Jammu and Kashmir have been received through the Centralised Public Grievances Redressal and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) over the past three years since 2023, the government informed the Rajya Sabha.

The information was provided by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions in response to an unstarred question raised by Sat Sharma, Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha and president of the Bharatiya Janata Party Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the ministry’s reply, 6,991 grievances were received in 2023, 8,459 in 2024, and 7,936 in 2025, with a significant number of cases being resolved through the digital grievance redressal system.

Query on Public Service Delivery

In his question, Sat Sharma sought details about measures taken by the government to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery in Jammu and Kashmir. He also asked for information regarding the number of grievances received and resolved under various central government grievance redressal mechanisms during the last three years.

Sharma further requested details on steps taken to strengthen digital grievance systems, including online platforms and time-bound disposal mechanisms.

Reforms in Grievance Redressal System

The ministry stated that the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances conducts the National e‑Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) to evaluate public service portals of states and union territories, including Jammu and Kashmir.

The assessment reviews various parameters such as accessibility, ease of use, information security and integrated service delivery to improve governance efficiency.

To further strengthen grievance redressal, the government has implemented 10-step reforms in CPGRAMS and issued comprehensive guidelines in August 2024, reducing the grievance disposal timeline from 30 days to 21 days.

These measures also include integration of grievance platforms, establishment of dedicated grievance cells and the appointment of nodal and appellate officers for better monitoring and accountability.

Capacity Building and Digital Governance

The ministry also highlighted that the Administrative Training Institute Jammu and Kashmir has received grants under the Sevottam Scheme to conduct capacity-building programmes for government officials aimed at improving administrative efficiency and citizen-centric governance.

Additionally, several initiatives such as the implementation of E‑Office for digital file movement, monitoring dashboards, service analysis and citizen feedback systems have been introduced to enhance transparency, accountability and responsiveness in public administration.

Manoj Sinha, Omar Abdullah Extend Greetings on Jumat-ul-Vida

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Manoj Sinha, Omar Abdullah Extend Greetings on Jumat-ul-Vida

Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, has extended his greetings to the people on the occasion of Jumat-ul-Vida, which will be observed on March 13.

In a message, the Lieutenant Governor conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the citizens and prayed for their well-being.

“On the auspicious occasion of Jumat-ul-Vida, I extend my hearty greetings and good wishes to all. I pray for the health, happiness, and prosperity of every citizen,” he said.

He further expressed hope that the final Friday of the holy month of Ramadan would bring greater compassion and unity among people.

“As we observe the final Friday of the holy month of Ramzan, may the Almighty graciously accept our prayers and devotions and continue to guide us toward a future founded on compassion, unity and enduring harmony,” Sinha added.

Chief Minister Extends Greetings

Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, also extended warm greetings to the people on the occasion.

In his message, the Chief Minister highlighted the spiritual importance of Jumat-ul-Vida, which marks the last Friday of Ramadan and holds special significance for the Muslim community.

He urged people to use the sacred occasion for prayers, reflection and seeking divine blessings for peace and prosperity.

“May this blessed occasion bring peace, prosperity and well-being to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Let us pray for unity, harmony and the continued progress of our society while strengthening the bonds of compassion and brotherhood,” Abdullah said.

Appeal to Support the Needy

The Chief Minister also appealed to people to remember the underprivileged and extend support to those in need, stressing the values of kindness, charity and generosity that define the spirit of Ramadan.

He expressed hope that prayers offered on the occasion would inspire collective efforts toward building a more just, inclusive and peaceful society.

Om Birla Reaffirms Commitment to Fairness After No-Confidence Motion Fails

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Om Birla Reaffirms Commitment to Fairness After No-Confidence Motion Fails

Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, on Thursday reiterated his commitment to performing his duties in a fair and impartial manner, stating that every member of the Lower House—whether from the government or the opposition—has the right to speak in accordance with parliamentary rules.

Birla made the remarks while addressing the House for the first time after a motion seeking his removal, moved by more than 100 Opposition members, was rejected through a voice vote in the Lok Sabha.

“The members of the House have strengthened the traditions of Parliament and enhanced its prestige. I thank everyone for placing their trust in me. I assure you that I will always discharge my duties in an impartial and fair manner,” Birla said.

Right to Speak According to Rules

Responding to allegations that Opposition MPs were not being allowed to speak, Birla clarified that every member is entitled to speak as per the established rules of the House.

“Some members had said that Opposition MPs are not given a chance to speak. I want to make it clear that whether it is a minister or an Opposition MP, every member has the right to speak according to the rules,” he stated.

He further emphasised that parliamentary proceedings are conducted strictly according to rules that apply equally to all members.

“The House functions according to rules. These rules have not been made by the government or the opposition, and they are enforced equally on every member,” Birla said.

Notice Required for Speaking

The Speaker also explained that members must give prior notice before participating in debates or discussions.

“Whether the speaker is the Prime Minister, a minister or any other member, they must give notice to speak. Only after that can they be allowed to speak. No member has the right to speak out of turn in the House,” he added.

Protests in the House

Birla’s return to the chair was accompanied by protests and sloganeering from members of the INDIA bloc, which disrupted the proceedings.

As protests continued, Birla urged the members to allow the Question Hour to function, describing it as an important part of parliamentary proceedings where MPs can raise issues and hold the government accountable.

The House proceedings were eventually adjourned at around 11:04 am amid the disruptions. Birla appealed to the protesting members to let the Question Hour continue and said he would present his views on the discussions held over the previous two days later in the day.

Birla resumed his role as Speaker after the no-confidence motion against him was defeated by a voice vote in the Lok Sabha.

Navneet Kaur Hat-Trick Powers India to 4–1 Win Over Wales in Hockey World Cup Qualifiers

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Navneet Kaur Hat-Trick Powers India to 4–1 Win Over Wales in Hockey World Cup Qualifiers

A brilliant hat-trick by Navneet Kaur guided the India women’s national field hockey team to a commanding 4–1 victory over Wales women’s national field hockey team in a Pool B match of the Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday.

Navneet struck in the 29th, 34th and 55th minutes, while Sakshi Rana opened the scoring in the seventh minute at the GMC Balayogi Hockey Stadium.

Although India had already secured a semi-final berth before the match, the emphatic win ensured that the hosts finished top of the table in Pool B. India will now face Italy women’s national field hockey team on Friday for a place in the final.

Early Dominance by India

India began the match with great intensity, displaying speed and sharp attacking moves in the opening quarter. Despite Wales employing a high press, the hosts managed to create early chances.

The breakthrough came in the 7th minute when Salima Tete drove down the right flank and set up Sakshi Rana, who fired a powerful reverse hit from the edge of the circle to give India the lead.

India nearly doubled their advantage soon after when Udita struck from a penalty corner, but the effort was cleared off the goal line.

Navneet Takes Control

India maintained the momentum in the second quarter with a swift counterattack involving Navneet and Lalremsiami, but Welsh goalkeeper Ffion Horrell denied the chance.

India’s goalkeeper Bichu Devi also made an important save in the 25th minute, stopping Wales’ first penalty corner of the match.

The second goal arrived in the 29th minute when Navneet converted a penalty corner with a powerful low shot, doubling India’s lead. Five minutes later, after Sakshi earned another penalty corner with a fine run, Navneet struck again to make it 3–0.

Wales Pull One Back

Wales managed to reduce the deficit in the 39th minute when Betsan Thomas capitalised on a brief defensive lapse and scored from a tight angle to bring the score to 3–1.

In the final quarter, Wales had an opportunity to close the gap when they were awarded a penalty stroke in the 50th minute, but captain Elizabeth Bingham missed the chance.

Hat-Trick Seals Victory

Navneet completed her hat-trick in the 55th minute, calmly converting a penalty stroke to seal a convincing 4–1 win for India and underline the team’s dominance in the tournament.

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