SBI donates school bus under CSR activity

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 15: State Bank of India, Chandigarh Circle today donated a school bus to Army Public School (APS), Pathankot, under CSR initiative. The key of bus was handed over to Dr Anju Saini, Principal of Army Public School, Pathankot. Krishan Sharma, Chief General Manager, SBI Chandigarh Circle, Manoranjan Panda, General Manager (Network-I), Aruna Thakur, Deputy General Manager (B&O), Mohali and other dignitaries flagged off the Bus in the presence of staff members of Local Head Office, Chandigarh. [] The post SBI donates school bus under CSR activity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

BSF To Undertake Mega IED Detection Drive Along India-Pakistan Border In Punjab

New Delhi, Apr 10: The BSF will undertake an anti-IED sweep along hundreds of kilometres of the India-Pakistan border in Punjab following the first-time recovery of such bombs leading to one jawan being injured, official sources said on Thursday. The force also recently shifted the jurisdiction of about 20.3 kilometres from the total 553 kilometres under its Punjab frontier, headquartered in Jalandhar, to the neighbouring Jammu frontier for better security coordination in the riverine areas that run along Pathankot in [] The post BSF To Undertake Mega IED Detection Drive Along India-Pakistan Border In Punjab appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Blast outside BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia's residence in Jalandhar, Opposition slams AAP govt

CHANDIGARH: A last took place outside the residence of BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia in Punjab's Jalandhar district, causing panic in the area. Deputy Commissioner of Police Manpreet Singh said forensic teams have reached the spot to collect samples. A loud sound was heard at around 1 am outside Kalia's residence near Shastri Market in Jalandhar, police said, adding that no one was hurt in the incident. No one was hurt in the incident, said Deputy Commissioner of Police Manpreet Singh, adding, The forensic team is investigating the matter. Speaking to reporters, Kalia said it could be a hand-grenade blast. The grenade attack was so severe that the partition in the house was severely damaged. The window glass of the kitchen was damaged. A bathroom door was damaged, said Kalia. There was some damage to the floor of the entrance and his SUV as well. Kalia said he was sleeping when he heard the sound of the explosion. He said he initially thought there was a blast in the electric transformer because of overloading. His driver then told him it was a blast. Thereafter, he called the police but nobody picked up the phone, he said. Then he sent his gunman to the police station, Kalia added. BJP Jalandhar district president Sushil Sharma said some unidentified persons came in an e-rickshaw and threw a hand-grenade towards the leader's residence. Senior police officers, including Jalandhar Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur, reached the spot to take stock of the situation. Kaur told reporters that police received information about the explosion at around 1 am. We have checked the spot. Our forensic teams also investigated it. We will register an FIR and further investigate the incident, she said. We are examining the CCTV trail, she said, and added, We have secured nearby areas. Asked whether it was a hand-grenade attack, Kaur said the forensic team has collected samples from the spot. Whatever information we receive, we will share, she further said. Police said it was examining the CCTV footage to trace the accused. There have been many incidents of explosions, targeting police posts in Amritsar and Gurdaspur in the past four to five months. Last month, a blast occurred outside a temple in Amritsar. Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and Pathankot MLA Ashwani Sharma visited Kalia's residence. Many other BJP leaders and party supporters also gathered at his residence. Opposition parties targeted the AAP government over the law and order situation following the blast at the residence of Kalia. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal sought the resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who holds the home portfolio. Lawlessness has crossed all bounds in Punjab. After attacks on police stations, places of worship & vandalism of statues of Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar, now the residence of a former minister & senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia has been subject to a grenade attack. All these incidents make it clear the @AamAadmiParty & chief minister @BhagwantMann are unable to come to grips with the situation. The CM must take moral responsibility for these incidents & resign immediately, said Badal in a post on X. Lawlessness has crossed all bounds in Punjab. After attacks on police stations, places of worship & vandalism of statues of Babasaheb Dr. BR Ambedkar, now the residence of a former minister & senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia has been subject to a grenade attack. All these pic.twitter.com/CJEmESTGfp Sukhbir Singh Badal (@officeofssbadal) April 8, 2025 Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly and Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa also hit out at the chief minister over the incident. The grenade attack on Shri Manoranjan Kalia's residence is a stark reminder of the escalating violence in Punjab under CM @BhagwantMann's tenure. Since he assumed office, there have been multiple blasts, including the Mohali RPG attack in May 2022 and the series of grenade attacks on police stations in late 2024. This pattern underscores a significant lapse in maintaining law and order. If the Chief Minister @BhagwantMann cannot ensure the safety of citizens, he should step down, said Bajwa. The grenade attack on Shri Manoranjan Kalias residence is a stark reminder of the escalating violence in Punjab under CM @BhagwantMann s tenure. Since he assumed office, there have been multiple blasts, including the Mohali RPG attack in May 2022 and the series of grenade pic.twitter.com/9XDXMR6huJ Partap Singh Bajwa (@Partap_Sbajwa) April 8, 2025

Army deploys kamikaze drones near LoC in Pathankot

The Indian Army has deployed five kamikaze (suicide) anti-tank drones at Pathankot, near the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.

Indian Armys kamikaze-role anti-tank munition drone developed and tested

NEW DELHI: Drawing lessons from the rising effectiveness of armed FPV drones against tanks in the Ukraine-Russia war, the Indian Army has developed its First-Person View (FPV) drone equipped with an impact-based, kamikaze-role anti-tank munition a first-of-its-kind project in the force. The drone meant for actical drone warfare has been successfully developed, tested, and validated in collaboration with the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh. The initiative was launched in August 2024. The Army on Friday said that success was achieved after extensive research, development, and trials to enhance the capabilities of low-cost, high-impact aerial strike systems. The drones developed in the Pathankot area cost around Rs 1,40,000/- per drone, the Army added. Five of them have been inducted and 95 being subsequently procured. The drone has been developed by Major Cephas Chetan of the Army in conjunction with a TBRL team, led by Dr Raghvendra. In-House drone fabrication facility The FPV drone was entirely assembled in-house at the Rising Star Drone Battle School, which has fabricated over 100 drones within the formation as of March 2025. Rising Star is the Indian Army's Corps. This self-reliant approach, as per the Army ensured complete control over build quality, component integration, and real-time modifications as per TBRL directives. It also optimized structural integrity, weight distribution, and flight dynamics, making the drone highly manoeuvrable and efficient for operational deployment. Focus on safety of payload and its deployment To enhance operator safety, a dual-safety mechanism has been incorporated into the payload system. This prevents accidental detonation during transport, handling, and flight, significantly increasing reliability and minimising risks for pilots and personnel handling the drone. The trigger mechanism has been meticulously designed to align with the dual safety features, ensuring that the payload can only be armed and deployed under strictly controlled conditions. It is activated exclusively by the pilot via the radio controller, eliminating premature detonation and ensuring precise execution during missions. Additionally, a live feedback relay system provides the pilot with real-time payload status updates through the FPV goggles, enabling informed decision-making while flying the drone. Trials and validation ensured success The system underwent rigorous trials, beginning with explosive testing, followed by aerial vehicle assessments and trigger system evaluations. Each phase was validated by TBRL scientists, confirming the drone effectiveness, accuracy, and reliability in payload delivery. The successful results mark this first-of-its-kind FPV drone project as a game-changing force multiplier in modern tactical engagements, the Army said.

Search operation enters fourth day in J-K's Kathua

JAMMU: A massive multi-tier combing operation to track down a group of infiltrating terrorists continued for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday in forested areas of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. A local woman informed the police on Tuesday that two men in army uniform asked her for water while they were having food in the Ding Amb belt of the district, prompting the area to be cordoned off. They took water and headed towards the nearby forest area, Darshana Devi said. Security has been intensified along the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway in the Samba-Kathua section, with increased vigilance on border roads, officials said. The search operation is concurrently underway in multiple areas from Sanyal to Ding Amb and beyond, covering several kilometers. The operation involving the army, NSG, BSF, police, Special Operation Group, and CRPF armed with technical and surveillance equipment, is supported by helicopter, UAVs, drones, bulletproof vehicles, and sniffer dogs. Security agencies have questioned several persons in various areas and picked up three suspects for questioning, they said. During the search operation on Tuesday, security forces recovered two grenades. The tracksuits found among a large cache of ammunition and other materials in the Sanyal forests were identical to those worn by the four JeM terrorists killed in Assar forests and Doda in June and August last year. Locals of the areas have joined the operation by security forces and urged people in other areas to remain vigilant and inform any movement of suspected persons in their areas. Several villagers have requested people to come forward with information about the movement of terrorists in their areas. The operation led by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat was launched on Sunday evening in the Hiranagar sector following an encounter between security forces and terrorists hiding in a nursery. The Special Operations Group of police initiated the operation after receiving intelligence about terrorists hiding inside a 'dhok' (local enclosure) in a nursery in Sanyal village, approximately five kilometers from the International Border with Pakistan, officials said. The hidding terrorists opened fire on the police team, resulting in a prolonged gunfight lasting over half an hour. Reinforcements were promptly dispatched as a manhunt began to apprehend the terrorists believed to have infiltrated on Saturday via either a ravine route or a newly constructed tunnel. Initial firing did not cause any casualties, and the area remained under tight security overnight before security forces moved in at dawn, officials said. Although there have been no further encounters with the terrorists, search parties on Monday discovered four loaded magazines of M4 carbine, two grenades, a bulletproof jacket, sleeping bags, tracksuits and several packets of food.

Locals staging a demonstration on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway in Jatwal area on Thursday.

Locals staging a demonstration on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway in Jatwal area on Thursday. The post Locals staging a demonstration on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway in Jatwal area on Thursday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J&K: Nai Basti shopkeepers begin hunger strike, demand relocation

Jammu, Mar 18: Around 30 shopkeepers from Jammus Nai Basti, who received eviction notices from Highway Authorities for the expansion of the Satwari-Bikram-Chowk stretch of the Jammu-Pathankot highway, launched a hunger strike on Tuesday, demanding proper rehabilitation. The protest followed several unsuccessful meetings with the administration. The families, led by local BJP leaders, accused the [] The post J&K: Nai Basti shopkeepers begin hunger strike, demand relocation appeared first on Northlines .

Demanding Relocation, Jammus Nai Basti Shopkeepers Begin Hunger Strike

Jammu, Mar 18: Demanding proper rehabilitation, around 30 shopkeepers of Jammus Nai Basti, who got eviction notices from Highway Authorities for expansion of Satwari-Bikram-Chowk stretch of Jammu-Pathankot highway, on Tuesday began a hunger strike after series of futile meetings with administration. The families of shopkeepers led by local BJP leaders, accused the administration of deliberately delaying the relocation despite the commitment by LG Manoj Sinha in July last year. LGs commitment has been ignored by the administration. In the last [] The post Demanding Relocation, Jammus Nai Basti Shopkeepers Begin Hunger Strike appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

AAP MP Sahney calls for crop diversification, agri processing for Punjab's development

CHANDIGARH: Dr Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from Punjab, who unveiled the report titled Punjab Vision - A Blueprint for Progress, discussed the importance of crop diversification, agri-processing, industrial infrastructure, and skill training for the development of Punjab. The report, a part of the Punjab Vision 2047 held in November last year, details various recommendations in the agriculture sector for crop diversification, including millets in the mid-day meal and providing millets in the 5 Kg Ration Scheme. Punjab should create and promote AI technology for sustainable crop diversification and should set up AI-driven chatbox to assist farmers, Sahney said. On agri-processing, Sahney said that there is an urgent need to set up food processing parks, preferably through multipurpose cooperative societies in a cluster of villages with storage and processing facilities, oil extraction, flour mills, processing and packing of spices, pulses, honey, mushrooms etc. He also emphasised the need for organic farming with institutions like MARKFED and Punjab Agro to provide market linkages. Sahney also proposed setting up of crop specific clusters like pulses, oil seeds, and cotton in Malva, Sugarcane in Doaba, Maize in Hoshiarpur, dairy development in Kapurthala, Floriculture in Ludhiana, Litchi in Pathankot and Chillies in Ferozpur . Regarding trade and industry, Sahney reiterated that Punjab should develop strong industrial zones and revamp key areas in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Mohali, and Amritsar. He mentioned that the Rajpura Industrial Zone should commence operations within this year. Additionally, he highlighted that further strengthening of STPIs to establish IT hubs and BPOs could be a game changer for Punjab, as skilled IT talent from the state is currently migrating to Bangalore and Hyderabad. Sahney highlighted that skill training for the youth of Punjab is crucial to safeguard lives and livelihoods. He provided details about five world-class skill centers being established by him, along with the 10 ITIs he has adopted. He expressed deep concern over the depleting water level and the presence of Arsenic and other harmful substances in the water. He expressed concern over the declining water levels and the presence of arsenic and other harmful substances in the water. To address these issues, he suggested adopting Direct Seeded Rice along with a micro-irrigation system. He further demanded that Punjab should receive immediate funds under the Atal Bhujal Yojana for water conservation, noting that the state meets all the criteria of the scheme. While appreciating the State governments war on drugs, Sahney said that skill training for drug rehabs is very critical to bring back youth into mainstream. He also advocated the need for investing in solar energy to optimize subsidy allocation for free power.

JKP wrestler Nisar wins Jib Kesari Dangal Title 2025

Excelsior Sports Correspondent REASI, Mar 10: Wrestler Nisar of J&K Police clinched the Jib Kesari Dangal Title 2025 after defeating Alam of Pathankot, Punjab, in the first malli main bout that lasting 22 minutes, at village Manmella, here today. The event was organized by the Shiv Shakti Dangal Committee in collaboration with the J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association. Ex-Minister and MLA Udhampur (West) Pawan Kumar Gupta, the chief guest, awarded cash prizes to the winners. Shiv Kumar Sharma, President of [] The post JKP wrestler Nisar wins Jib Kesari Dangal Title 2025 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Four killed, 11 injured after bus heading to Jammu rams into brick-laden tractor-trolley in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: Four persons were killed while 11 others were injured after a bus rammed into a brick-laden tractor-trolley in Punjab's Jalandhar district on Monday, police said. The accident took place near the Kala Bakra area in Jalandhar when the bus was going to Jammu from Rajasthan, police said. When the tractor-trolley came on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway from a village road, the bus rammed into it, said police. Police said the bus driver and a passenger were killed on the spot while two passengers died in the hospital. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, said police. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed grief over the death of passengers in the accident. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured, said Mann in a post on X. He also lauded the efforts of the 'Sadak Surakhya Force' (road safety force) of the Punjab Police for helping the injured. - - SSF , Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) March 10, 2025

4 killed, 11 injured after bus heading to Jammu rams into tractor-trolley in Punjab

Chandigarh, Mar 10: Four persons were killed while 11 others were injured after a bus rammed into a brick-laden tractor-trolley in Punjabs Jalandhar district on Monday, police said. The accident took place near the Kala Bakra area in Jalandhar when the bus was going to Jammu from Rajasthan, police said. When the tractor-trolley came on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway from a village road, the bus rammed into it, said police. Police said the bus driver and a passenger were killed on [] The post 4 killed, 11 injured after bus heading to Jammu rams into tractor-trolley in Punjab appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sarthal a Paradise in Jammu needs attention

Mudasar Ali Sarthal, located in the Tehsil Bani of District Kathua, is a beautiful tourist destination, situated near Bhaderwah, Basohli, and Pathankot. It is approximately 50 kilometers away from Bhaderwah and is one of the most charming places in Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as Mini Kashmir. The area is blessed with abundant natural beauty, with lush greenery, dense forests, towering mountains, and clear air. Sarthals scenery rivals popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. The beauty of the [] The post Sarthal a Paradise in Jammu needs attention appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

'Unfair for commuters to pay tolls on poorly maintained highways': HC orders NHAI to cut toll fee by 80%

The J&K and Ladakh High Court ordered the NHAI to reduce toll at two plazas on the Pathankot-Udhampur highway due to construction and poor road conditions. The court directed NHAI to only collect 20% of the toll until the highway is fully operational. The court also emphasized the unfairness of charging full toll for deteriorated roads.

J&K High court to NHAI: Cant collect toll if highway in bad shape, cuts fee

The J&K and Ladakh High court has ordered the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to collect only 20% of toll on the Pathankot-Uddhampur stretch, saying that if the highway is in bad shape owing to different nature of construction activities, it cannot collect this much amount from the commuters, if the highway is not in good condition. The order comes to a PIL hearing on Tuesday regarding Pathankot-Uddhampur stretch of NH-44, by Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice MA Chaudhary. It shall come into immediate effect, at two toll plazas- Lakhanpur and Bann- till the national highway from Lakhanpur to Uddhampur gets fully operational. Further the court has also directed not to establish any plaza within 60km radius of NH44. It has instructed the removal of plazas in the two union territories of J&K and Ladakh within a period of two months. The bench said, There should be no mushrooming of toll plazas in the UT of J&K and UT of Ladakh only with the sole aim and objective of minting money from the general public. The NHAI has always had the power to reduce, rather suspend the user fee, popularly known as toll on damaged, unoperational and dilapidated highways, it has never exercised this provision. The commuters face poor maintenance, declining quality of roads and diversions here and there, and still have to pay user fee without getting the desired benefits. The PIL was filed by Sugandha Sawhney, who seeked exemption of toll at Lakhanpur, Thandi Khui and Bann plazas on the national highway from Pathankot to Uddhampur. The construction is underway here, as a part of Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway project. Sawhney submitted to the court that about 60-70% of the stretch is under construction since December 2021, yet NHAI was collecting toll at these three plazas even though the rules say that the fee collection should commence within 45 days from the date of the completion of the section. She had further addressed that there are grave hurdles and diversions on the route. The toll collection at Thandi Khui is however closed since January 26, 2024. Stating the order, the High court said, This is based on the principle that the tolls are collected to provide users with the benefit of well maintained infrastructure. If this highway is in a deteriorated condition and uncomfortable to drive on, it is considered unfair for commuters to continue paying tolls, rather the same is a violation of fair service. Certainly, the commuters and drivers must be feeling frustrated by the poor state of this particular highway they are paying to use. The basic premise is that the tolls should be a form of compensation for road users in exchange for smooth, safe and well-maintained highways. The court, however took note of NHAIs submission that the service roads and diversions have been provided due to different nature of construction works being carried out on the highway. For the movement of traffic, the 4-lane NH has been reduced to single lane. The court said, Otherwise too, it is not a hidden thing nor the learned counsel appearing for respondents have denied this that the NH-44 from Pathankot to Bann toll Plaza to Domel (Katra) is in a poor and deteriorated condition, there are grave hurdles, potholes and diversions due to complete destruction of this particular NH. Thus, the commuters are being unfairly charged as they are not receiving the value they are paying for in terms of quality of infrastructure. Thus in this way, the general public or commuters are feeling cheated as they are being forced to pay tolls for the highway which is at present is in a poor and shabby condition that too when in ending June 2024, road transport and highway minister Mr. Nitin Gadkari at a globsl workshop on satellite-basede tolling said that there is no justification of highway agencies charging tools, if roads are not in good condition or not up to their standards and people continue to face problems. The judgement is surely in favor of the daily commuters who face problems, and at present not getting the services due to the construction activities. Of course, tax is necessary when the services are apt. Though, the order is said to have ramifications ahead.

Can't collect toll if road in bad shape, says J&K HC, cuts fee at 2 NH-44 plazas

The J&K and Ladakh High Court has ordered the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to collect only 20% of the toll on the Pathankot-Udhampur stretch due to ongoing construction activities. The court emphasized that toll should only be charged when highways are in good condition, and directed the removal of plazas established within 60 km of NH-44.

BSF foils bid to infiltrate Jammu region; intruder killed

BSF officials thwarted an infiltration attempt in Pathankot, Jammu, killing an unidentified intruder who ignored warnings. A strong protest will be lodged with Pak Rangers. In a separate incident, an Army vehicle in Sunderbani sector, Rajouri district, came under fire from suspected militants. No casualties were reported, and troops are conducting a search operation to locate the attackers.

Terrorists open fire at army vehicle in Jammu & Kashmir's Rajouri

Terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri fired at an army vehicle in Sunderbani, prompting troops to return fire and search the area. Hours earlier, the BSF neutralized an intruder crossing the International Border in the Pathankot sector. These incidents underscore heightened security measures following recent terrorist activities and infiltration attempts.

BSF foils infiltration bid on Pathankot IB

Jammu, Feb 26: Alert troops of the Border Security Force (BSF) early in the morning on Wednesday foiled an infiltration bid along the International Border(IB) in the Pathankot sector. The Jammu-based BSF spokesperson here said that at pre-dawn, troops observed a suspicious movement across the international border in the Border Outpost of Tashpatan, Pathankot border [] The post BSF foils infiltration bid on Pathankot IB appeared first on Northlines .

BSF troops shoot Pakistani intruder dead along international border at Pathankot in Punjab

The intruder was subsequently shot dead, and his identity is being ascertained, the officials said. A spokesperson of the BSF, Jammu frontier, said a strong protest will be lodged with Pakistan Rangers over the incident.

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Pak Intruder Shot Dead Along Punjab Border

Amritsar/Jammu, Feb 26: A Pakistani intruder was shot dead early Wednesday morning by BSF troops along the international border at Pathankot in Punjab, officials said. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel noticed some suspicious movement in the Border Outpost Tashpatan area along the IB. Despite being challenged by the BSF troops, the intruder did not stop after crossing over onto this side, they said. The intruder was subsequently shot dead and his identity is being ascertained, the officials said. A spokesperson [] The post Pak Intruder Shot Dead Along Punjab Border appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

BSF foils infiltration bid on Pathankot International Border, to lodge protest with Pak Rangers

Alert troops of the Border Security Force (BSF) early in the morning on Wednesday foiled an infiltration bid along the International Border(IB) in the Pathankot sector.

Army shoots down Pakistani intruder at Indo-Pak border

The Border Security Force (BSF) shot an intruder who was observed crossing the International Border at Pathankot in the early hours, despite being challenged by troops. The BSF stated that the identity and motive of the intruder are being investigated and plans to lodge a strong protest with Pakistani Rangers.

HC orders toll reduction at 2 NH plazas until work finishes

Srinagar, Feb 25: In a significant development for commuters using the National Highway-44 (NH-44) from Pathankot to Udhampur, the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court on Tuesday ordered a reduction in toll fees at two plazas along the highway. According to the judgment, the court ruled that only 20 percent of the toll fee [] The post HC orders toll reduction at 2 NH plazas until work finishes appeared first on Northlines .

Toll Should Not Be Collected When Highway Is In Bad Shape: J&K High Court

JAMMU, Feb 25: In a major relief to people traveling on the National Highway-44 (NH-44) from Punjab (Pathankot) to Jammu (Udhampur), the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court on Tuesday ordered that only 20 percent of the toll fee be collected at two plazas on the highway till the completion of the construction The Bench of Chief Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice MA Choudhary said that if the highway is in bad shape due to different nature of construction [] The post Toll Should Not Be Collected When Highway Is In Bad Shape: J&K High Court appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

A few final steps remain: Misri on Rana's extradition

The United States has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. The decision was announced by President Donald Trump during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the White House. India is currently working on the logistics of Rana's surrender and extradition, with several final steps to be completed before he is sent back to India. The joint statement issued by India and the US during Prime Minister Modi's visit reaffirmed their commitment to fighting terrorism and eliminating terrorist safe havens. The leaders also called on Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks. Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is currently lodged at a metropolitan detention center in Los Angeles. He is associated with Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 attacks.

Working on logistics of Tahawwur Rana's surrender, extradition to India: Foreign Secretary Misri

WASHINGTON: India is working on the logistics of Tahawwur Rana's surrender and extradition from the US, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has said, as President Donald Trump announced that his administration has given the go-ahead to extradite the 26/11 terror attack accused to face justice. This is an issue on which the US authorities have taken very clear decisions. I think you've seen the President announce it himself from the White House podium the decision of the United States to extradite Rana, Misri said at a press conference here on Thursday. During a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the White House, US President Donald Trump announced that his administration has approved the extradition of very evil Tahawwur Rana, wanted by Indian law enforcement agencies for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, o face justice in India. In response to a question by PTI on the timeframe by when Rana will be extradited to India, Misri said: We are working on the logistics of his surrender and extradition to India. There are a few final steps to be completed. The two sides are in touch on this particular issue. US approves extradition of 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India The India-US joint statement issued during the Prime Minister's visit to the US notes that Modi and Trump reaffirmed that the global scourge of terrorism must be fought and terrorist safe havens eliminated from every corner of the world. They committed to strengthen cooperation against terrorist threats from groups, including Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Jaish-e Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba in order to prevent heinous acts like the attacks in Mumbai on 26/11 and the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan on August 26, 2021, the joint statement said. Recognising a shared desire to bring to justice those who would harm our citizens, the US announced that the extradition to India of Tahawwur Rana has been approved, it said. The leaders further called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai, and Pathankot attacks and ensure that its territory is not used to carry out cross-border terrorist attacks. The leaders also pledged to work together to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems and to deny access to such weapons by terrorists and non-state actors, the joint statement added. Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is currently lodged at a metropolitan detention centre in Los Angeles. He is known to be associated with Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 attacks. Speaking at the joint press meet, Trump said Today I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters and very evil people of the world, and having to do with the horrific Mumbai terrorist attack, to face justice in India. So, he is going back to India to face justice. The extradition of Rana was cleared by the US Supreme Court in January as it rejected his review petition in the case. We resolve issues bilaterally: India dismisses Trumps mediation offer on China skirmishes India last month said it was working with American authorities for the early extradition of Rana. The US Supreme Court on January 21 declined to hear a petition from the accused. We are now working with the US side on procedural issues for early extradition to India of the accused in the Mumbai terror attack, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said. On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists attacked Mumbai, India's financial capital, and went on a killing spree as they carried out a coordinated attack on a railway station, two luxury hotels and a Jewish centre. As many as 166 people were killed in the nearly 60-hour assault. In November 2012, Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone surviving gunman among the Pakistani group, was hanged to death in Yerawada Jail in Pune.

PM Modi, US President Trump call on Pakistan to bring perpetrators of 26/11 attacks to justice

WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump have called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks even as the latter announced approving extradition to India of Tahawwur Rana , a key plotter of the dastardly strike. The US president hosted Modi at the White House on Thursday in their first bilateral meeting after Trump became the US president for a second term. Trump, addressing a joint media briefing with Modi, announced that his administration has approved the extradition of one of the very evil people of the world to India. He is going to be going back to India to face justice, he said. We're giving him back to India immediately and more such extraditions could follow as we have quite a few requests (from New Delhi), the US president added. On his part, Modi thanked Trump for the decision. I am thankful to the President that he has decided to hand over the culprit who committed the killings in India in 2008, to India now. Indian courts will now take appropriate action, he said. Modi said India and the US have stood firmly together in the fight against terrorism and both sides agreed that concerted action is necessary to eradicate cross-border terrorism. A joint statement said the two leaders committed to strengthening cooperation against terrorist threats from groups, including Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Jaish-e Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba to prevent heinous acts like the Mumbai attacks. It said the leaders reaffirmed that the global scourge of terrorism must be fought and terrorist safe havens eliminated from every corner of the world. They committed to strengthen cooperation against terrorist threats from groups, including Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Jaish-e Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba in order to prevent heinous acts like the attacks in Mumbai on 26/11 and the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan on August 26, 2021, according to the statement. Recognising a shared desire to bring to justice those who would harm our citizens, the US announced that the extradition to India of Rana has been approved, according to the statement. The leaders further called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai, and Pathankot attacks and ensure that its territory is not used to carry out cross-border terrorist attacks, it said. On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists went into a rampage, carrying out a coordinated attack on a railway station, two luxury hotels and a Jewish centre, after they sneaked into India's financial capital using the sea route in the Arabian sea. As many as 166 people were killed in the nearly 60-hour assault that sent shockwaves across the country and even brought India and Pakistan to the brink of a war. Trump and Modi also pledged to work together to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems and to deny access to such weapons by terrorists and non-state actors, the statement noted.

Couriers to soldiers, BSF at work

CHANDIGARH: The BSF has a novel idea to discourage Punjab youth in the border areas from becoming drug couriers. It gives them paramilitary and armed forces training to motivate them to take up soldiering instead. The forces focus is on the Punjab districts along the Indo-Pak international border that suffer from cross-border drug supply vial drones, turning youth into couriers or addicts. For long, the BSF has been fighting the brutal battle of securing the border, checking the drug menace and stopping the youth from becoming couriers for Pakistan smugglers and, in the process, becoming addicts. Now it has hit upon the training idea and begun the reformation exercise in earnest. Youngsters are being tried out for fitness and mental and physical strength and commitment to training them. They hail from border areas of Punjab like Amritsar, Taran Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot and Ferozepur. Thus, now you are given pre-recruitment training for paramilitary and armed forces so they do not fall into the wrong hands. A few hundred of them have been selected for this, said a senior officer of BSF on the condition of anonymity. Also, next month, a marathon will be held from Amritsar to Attari, where the BSF expects some 700 youth from border areas to participate. As motivation, motorcycles will be given away as prizes. The BSF is in talks with various sponsor companies regarding this. The BSF has also started a community interface as it has established a number of vocational training centres to train the youth in tailoring, carpentry, mobile repair, plumbing, harnessing dairy products and computer-related skills. Many got successful placements at the end of their training. An English coaching class for the youth of the border villages has come up in the Taran Taran district. They aspire to clear competitive examinations for higher studies in the countrys premier institutions or go abroad. Around 50 youth have been given coaching in English speaking and writing. To generate job creation and empower local artisans, BSF distributes toolkits to artisans. The BSF has also established a number of Ankur Primary Schools under the aegis of BWWA (BSF Wives Welfare Association) in the remote areas of the Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Taran Taran, Pathankot, Fazilka and Jalandhar districts where school infrastructure is deficient. Inspector General of BSF Punjab Frontier, Atul Fulzele, told this newspaper, After having analysed the need to minimise the alienation, BSF had embarked upon a number of initiatives in different fields, from skill development of youth to provide education to children and health care, as the people living along the border face numerous challenges due to their geographical location and socio-political dynamics. The larger aim is to motivate youth to choose the right path to understand the legal ramifications of drug smuggling and addiction. Last year, BSF intercepted and seized approximately 270 drones along the Punjab border, against 107 last year and to just 21 in 2022. The seizures led to the confiscation of 254 kg of heroin in 2023, compared to 440 kg in 2022 and 317 kg in 2021. 700 youth to take part in marathon A marathon will be held next month from Amritsar to Attari, where the BSF expects some 700 youth from border areas to participate. As motivation, motorcycles will be given away as prizes. The BSF is in talks with various sponsor companies regarding this. The BSF also started a community interface as it has established a number of vocational training centres to train the youth in tailoring, carpentry, mobile repair, plumbing, harnessing dairy products and computer-related skills. Many got successful placements at the end of their training.

Bhaderwah, Adjoining Areas In Jammu Division Receive Fresh Snowfall

Doda, Jan 16: Jammu divisions Bhaderwah valley in Doda district received a fresh spell of snowfall on Thursday, as did the adjacent region of Bhalessa which was blanketed in pristine white. Poonch, too, was freshly covered in snow; while further north in Kashmir valley, there has been snowfall in Anantnag and the adjoining areas of south Kashmir. Competing healthily with spells of snowfall in Kashmir valley, following the restoration of the Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway, a large number of tourists thronged [] The post Bhaderwah, Adjoining Areas In Jammu Division Receive Fresh Snowfall appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Train link in J&K to be extended to border dists: Sinha

SRINAGAR: Ahead of direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi, the train service in J&K will be further extended to border town of Uri and Kupwara in north Kashmir and border districts of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region. It will connect the Line of Control (LoC) with the rail link. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under consideration for new railway lines. For Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways is spearheading a new era of development and integration. The prestigious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) will seamlessly connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari which will boost tourism, trade, and employment opportunities in the region, Sinha said. He said several transformative projects are in the pipeline for Jammu and Kashmir. The extension of the rail link to the border town of Uri and border districts will generate employment for the locals and improve connectivity. The link to Uri and border districts would also help in the mobility of the troops deployed at the LoC and other forward areas of J&K. It would help with quick transportation of troops and military hardware. The L-G also said that DPR is also under examination for the new line between Pathankot-Leh (664kms), Bilaspur-Manali-Leh (489kms) and doubling of Baramulla-Banihal line. By linking key towns and regions, these projects promise to unlock the regions untapped potential and boost local economies, he said. Meanwhile, CM Omar Abdullah said creation of Jammu Railway division is a historic moment. He allayed fears of Jammu that it would suffer losses due to direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi. I want to assure people that rail connectivity to Kashmir will benefit Jammu. It will increase trade, tourism and connectivity of Jammu, he said. Maintaining that trade and industry in J&K would benefit from train connectivity, Omar said job opportunities will increase with the new railway division in Jammu.

E Srinivas Appointed First Divisional Railway Manager Of Jammu Rail Division

Jammu division will cover the operations of rail tracks from Pathankot to Baramulla. It will also cover the narrow-gauge line from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar, Dilip Kumar, Executive Director, Information and Publicity, Railway Board, said.

Modi launches major railways projects in Telangana, J&K and Odisha

Srinagar: Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Monday, after virtually inaugurating the newly carved out Jammu Railway Division (JRD), said that this historic milestone will create steps to take Jammu and Kashmirs journey of developmental infrastructure and connectivity to higher levels. The integration of J&K into the national railway network is a monumental step towards transforming Indian Railways into a global leader in efficiency, speed, and passenger experience, he said, adding, The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project is a landmark achievement that demonstrates India's engineering excellence. The 742.1-kilometre long JRD comprises of the Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla (423 km), Bhogpur-Sirwal-Pathankot (87.21 km), Batala-Pathankot (68.17 km) and Pathankot-Joginder Nagar routes (163.72 km). It is expected to create new employment opportunities in J&K and neighbouring Punjab and apart from boosting up infrastructure development promote tourism and the overall socio-economic development of the region, officials said in Jammu. Endorsing it, the Prime Minister said that the JRD would not only benefit the people of J&K but also extend its advantages to Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Ladakh. He termed its inauguration as a symbol of Indias collective progress under the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, filling colours in the dream of Developed India. He said the completion of the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, will play a key role in connecting J&K with the rest of the country India through rail besides providing convenience to the people of Leh-Ladakh. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Rayagada Railway Division Building of East Coast Railway and inaugurated the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana which too will promote tourism and add to socio-economic development in these states. According to an official statement, the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in the Medchal-Malkajgiri district of Telangana has been developed as a new coaching terminal along with provision of a second entry with a cost of around 413 crore. This environment friendly terminal, having good passenger amenities, will ease congestion on the existing coaching terminals in the city like Secunderabad, Hyderabad and Kacheguda, the statement said. It added that the Rayagada Railway Division Building of East Coast Railway, the foundation stone of which was laid by the Prime Minister through video conferencing will improve connectivity in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and nearby areas and lead to overall socio-economic development of the region. The Prime Minister said, We are taking forward the development of railways in India on four parameters. First- modernization of railway infrastructure, Second- Modern facilities for railway passengers, Third- Railway connectivity in every corner of the country, Fourth- Railways for creating jobs and supporting industries. The Prime Minister said, Today is a big day for new-age connectivity. It shows that the entire nation is moving forward together. He asserted that in order to translate the dream of Vikshit Bharat, it is crucial to develop Indian Railways. He said the past decade has witnessed a transformational change in railway infrastructure modernization, enhanced connectivity, and improved facilities for passengers. The Prime Minister said, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, and the iconic arch bridge over the Chenab Riverthe worlds highest railway bridgeare marvels that are making waves globally. He said that the government has laid more than 30,000 kilometers of new railway tracks in the last ten years, nearing 100 percent electrification, compared to just 35 percent existing in 2014 (when he took over as the Prime Minister) and that all manual crossings on broad-gauge tracks have been removed during this period. Mr. Modi while lauding Indias fast-paced progress in connectivity said that since the start of 2025, India has been accelerating its initiatives with its metro rail network expanding to over 1,000 kilometers. While referring to the recent inauguration of Namo Bharat train in Delhi-NCR along with the launch of Delhi Metro projects on Sunday, the Prime Minister asserted, Todays event is a further testimony to the fact that the entire nation is moving forward together, step by step, as projects launched in J&K, Odisha and Telangana mark a major leap in modern connectivity for these the north, east and south regions of the country. He said the work on modern rail networks like the Dedicated Freight Corridor is progressing rapidly in the country and that these special corridors will reduce pressure on the regular tracks apart from creating more opportunities for high-speed trains. He reiterated that the railways are undergoing a transformation with the promotion of Made in India. He said modern coaches are being developed for metros and railways, stations redeveloped, solar panels installed at stations and One Station, One Product stalls set up at railway stations. All these initiatives are generating millions of new employment opportunities in the railway sector. Over the last decade, millions of young people have secured permanent government jobs in the railways, he said, adding, The demand for raw materials in factories producing new train coaches leads to more job opportunities in other sectors as well. The Prime Minister said that the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana has the potential of accelerating regional development by connecting to the Outer Ring Road. This station, connected to the Outer Ring Road, will significantly boost development in the region, he said and highlighted the stations modern amenities including its platforms, lifts, escalators, solar-powered operations. The Prime Minister said, This is a step forward in creating sustainable infrastructure as this new terminal will ease the pressure on existing stations in Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kachiguda, making travel more convenient for the people. He said Odisha is blessed with abundant natural resources and a large coastline, and holds significant potential for international trade. He said that several railway projects worth over 70,000 crore are ongoing in the state, along with the establishment of seven Gati Shakti cargo terminals, which are boosting trade and industry. He said the Rayagada Railway Division will strengthen the states railway infrastructure promoting tourism, business, and employment in Odisha, especially South Odisha, where the number of tribal families is higher. Mr. Modi said that such projects not only enhance the ease of living but also promote the ease of doing business, aligning with Indias broader infrastructure goals. He said India is currently undergoing a massive infrastructure expansion, including expressways, waterways and metro networks. The number of airports has grown from 74 in 2014 to over 150 today. The metro services have expanded from 5 cities to 21 cities across the country. These projects are part of a larger roadmap towards a developed India, which is now a mission for every citizen of this country, he said. He added, I am sure that together we will accelerate this growth even further. Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, G. Kishan Reddy, Jitendra Singh, V. Somanna, Ravneet Singh Bittu and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Governor of Odisha Jishnu Dev Varma, his counterpart of Telangana Hari Babu Kambhampati, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Omar Abdullah, A Revanth Reddy and Mohan Charan Majhi, the chief minister of J&J, Telangana and Odisha, respectively were present among other dignitaries at the event.

PM Modi Launches Major Railway Projects in Telangana, Odisha, and Jammu

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several significant railway projects across Telangana, Odisha, and Jammu & Kashmir, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and fostering socio-economic development. The virtual event, held on Monday at 12:30 PM IST, was a major milestone in the countrys railway infrastructure upgrades. One of the standout initiatives was the inauguration of the new Jammu Railway Division, covering over 742 kilometers and vital routes such as Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla. This development is set to improve transport links in Jammu and Kashmir, offering the region enhanced access to other parts of India. Local aspirations for better connectivity will be met, boosting tourism and providing employment opportunities while driving regional economic growth. Alongside this, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telanganas Medchal-Malkajgiri district. With an investment of around Rs 413 crore, this state-of-the-art facility is designed to be eco-friendly and passenger-centric. It will alleviate congestion at existing coaching terminals in Hyderabad, including Secunderabad and Kacheguda. This new terminal will play a key role in improving the region's railway infrastructure. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the Rayagada Railway Division Building of East Coast Railway, aimed at improving rail connectivity in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and surrounding regions. This project will contribute to the socio-economic development of these areas by providing better transportation options. The event saw the participation of several notable figures, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampat, and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. These initiatives form part of the government's ongoing commitment to modernizing the railway network, enhancing infrastructure, and improving services for millions of passengers nationwide. The project, aimed at connecting vital regions such as Pathankot, Jammu, Udhampur, and Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir, holds significant promise for the region's growth. By improving connectivity, it will not only foster smoother movement of people and goods but also facilitate the integration of these areas with the broader national network. This enhanced connectivity is expected to stimulate economic activities, boost trade, and create new employment opportunities, unlocking the untapped economic potential of the region. Furthermore, the project reflects the governments firm dedication to addressing regional disparities, ensuring that remote and underserved areas are brought into the national economic fold, and promoting balanced development across the country. Ultimately, this initiative has the potential to play a pivotal role in transforming the socio-economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

Snow-Clearing Operations: Bhaderwah Highway Reopens | #watch #trendingshorts | N18S

| Bhaderwah, Doda (J&K) | NH Bhaderwah-Pathankot opens for tourist vehicles after Border Roads Organisation's snow clearance operation. n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

In Connectivity Boost, Pathankot, Udhampur, Srinagar & Baramulla To Be Covered Under New Jammu Railway Division

The last time a new division was declared in the Indian Railways was in November 2007 when the Salem Railway Division was constituted

PM Modi to inaugurate Jammu rail division, lay foundation for Rayagada division

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the newly created Jammu rail division and lay the foundation of the Rayagada railway division through video conferencing on 6 January from New Delhi. With the creation of these two new railway divisions, the total number of operational railway divisions will rise to 70 under 17 zones of the Indian Railways. The headquarters of the newly created Jammu and Rayagada railway divisions will be located in Jammu and Rayagada, Odisha, respectively. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the new terminal at Charlapalli railway station in Hyderabad. Confirming this development, Executive Director (I&P) of the Railway Ministry, Dileep Kumar, told this newspaper on Thursday, The government has decided to set up a new division with headquarters at Jammu under the Northern Railway by reorganising the Firozpur division. The new Jammu division is likely to have the Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur (now Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan) Srinagar-Baramulla (423 route km), the Bhogpur-Sirwal-Pathankot (87.21 route km), Batala (excluding)-Pathankot (68.17 route km), and the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar (NG section covering 163.72 route km) under its jurisdiction. The final jurisdiction will be determined based on the Detailed Project Report, Kumar added. The headquarters of the newly created Jammu division will be equipped with modern, hi-tech facilities, utilising the full potential of Information Technology (IT). Meanwhile, the Rayagada division in Odisha is being set up by reorganising the Visakhapatnam division in Andhra Pradesh to cater to the transportation needs of this mineral-rich and tribal-dominated region. With the creation of these two new divisions, the Indian Railways will have a total of 70 divisions under its 17 various zones, said an official at the Ministry. There has also been a longstanding demand for the creation of a South Coast zone in Andhra Pradesh as Indian Railways 18th zone. Reportedly, tenders have been invited for the construction of the proposed South Coast railway zones office at Visakhapatnam. Dwelling upon the significance of the Jammu division, a senior railway official said, The establishment of the Jammu division coincides with the inauguration of several railway projects in the region, including the highly anticipated Chenab River Rail Bridge, and will deliver a strong message of the central governments commitment towards improving railway networks across J&K. The Chenab River Rail Bridge, located in the Reasi district, stands 1,178 feet above the riverbed, making it 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The Jammu division will also oversee the USBRL project, which has now been completed. Currently, railway services in J&K are managed by the Firozpur division of Northern Railways. The new Jammu rail division will encompass over 36 railway stations, including prominent stations such as Jammu Tawi, Katra, and Udhampur, along with several other new stations being developed on new rail routes across J&K. In Odisha, the Rayagada division will improve railway connectivity in the region, strengthening Indian Railways' reach. Rayagada, being a tribal-dominated area, will witness more efficient transportation of minerals and passengers with this development.

Remembering the Pathankot Attack: A 2016 Assault on India's Security

On January 2, 2016, the Indian Air Force's Pathankot Airbase was attacked by a group of militants, marking a devastating and deadly event in Indias fight against terrorism. The attack, carried out by militants linked to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, claimed the lives of at least six soldiers and several attackers after a 17-hour battle. The airbase, a crucial part of India's Western Air Command, became the site of intense combat that would reverberate through India-Pakistan relations for years to come. The Attack Unfolds The assault began on the early morning of January 1, 2016, when armed militants dressed in Indian Army uniforms breached the high-security perimeter of the Pathankot airbase. They infiltrated the base using the thick elephant grass surrounding the area, making their entry via a nylon rope that was found on the 3.4-meter-high wall. Equipped with grenade launchers, AK rifles, and a GPS device, the attackers moved swiftly into the base. Initial reports suggest that the militants aimed to destroy aircraft and helicopters stationed at the base, which were crucial assets for India's defense operations. They succeeded in making their way about 400 meters into the base but were halted by Garud commandos, who confronted them in a forested area. The attackers were armed with heavy artillery and explosives, including mortars and grenades. A Lengthy Battle The ensuing gun battle led to the deaths of four attackers and two security personnel on January 2, 2016. Another security officer succumbed to injuries a few hours later, raising the toll of Indian security personnel. The battle, however, didnt end there. The attackers remained elusive, and further gunshots and explosions were heard, signaling more militants were at large inside the base. The Indian Army intensified its search operation, named Operation Dhangu, to neutralize the remaining militants. By January 4, a fifth attacker was killed, and the operation continued as security forces combed the area. Tragically, the violence claimed additional lives, with three more soldiers dying due to an IED explosion on January 3. International and Domestic Repercussions The attack, claimed by the United Jihad Council-- a Kashmir-based militant organizationwas widely condemned internationally. While the group took responsibility, it was speculated that the attackers were members of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based group designated as a terrorist organization by India, the US, and several other nations. The attack deepened the already strained relations between India and Pakistan. Evidence found at the site of the attack indicated that the militants likely crossed into India from Pakistan, which further fueled tensions between the two countries. The attack also raised concerns that it was an attempt to derail peace talks meant to stabilize the fragile diplomatic relations between the neighboring nations. Aftermath and Legacy The Pathankot attack remains a somber reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorism. The attack also led to greater scrutiny of the security measures at Indian military installations and the relationship between India and Pakistan. As of 2023, the impact of the attack continues to affect the dynamics of the two countries, with relations remaining largely unresolved. In October 2023, Shahid Latif, the alleged mastermind behind the attack and a senior Jaish-e-Mohammed commander, was assassinated by unknown gunmen in Pakistan, highlighting the complex and ongoing nature of terrorism-related conflicts in the region. The Pathankot attack of 2016 stands as one of the most significant security challenges faced by India. The lives lost and the bravery of the security forces during the operation exemplify the sacrifices made in the ongoing fight against terrorism. The event not only shook the nation but also served as a grim reminder of the volatility in the region and the fragile nature of peace between India and Pakistan.

Indian Railways Cancels 70 Trains on January 2: Check the Full List

Indian Railways has announced the cancellation of nearly 70 train services on January 2, 2024. This step was taken to facilitate scheduled maintenance work and address operational requirements. Maintenance activities are essential to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the vast rail network across the country. Advisory for Passengers Passengers planning to travel are advised to verify the updated status of their trains before heading to the station. The latest train schedules and real-time updates can be accessed through the National Train Enquiry System (NTES). The NTES platform is available as a mobile application for both Android and iOS users, making it convenient to check the live status of trains anytime. Key Details About the Cancellations Indian Railways has emphasized that the cancellations are part of routine procedures to improve efficiency and ensure passenger safety. The affected trains include those connecting major cities and smaller towns, spanning various regions of the country. Below is the comprehensive list of the trains that will not operate on January 2, 2024: Cancelled Trains List: 14324 Rohtak-New Delhi 14323 New Delhi-Rohtak 04241 Mankapur Jn-Ayodhya Cantt Jn Memu 04242 Ayodhya Cantt-Mankapur Memu 04259 Mankapur Jn-Ayodhya Cantt Memu 04260 Ayodhya Cantt-Mankapur Jn Memu 04381 Prayagraj Sangam-Ayodhya Cantt Memu 04382 Ayodhya Cantt-Prayagraj Sangam Memu 04257 Mankapur Jn-Ayodhya Dham Memu 04258 Ayodhya Dham-Mankapur Jn Memu 04217 Varanasi-Lucknow Special 04218 Lucknow-Varanasi Special 04829 Jodhpur-Gorakhpur Special 22430 Pathankot-Delhi Junction 12497 New Delhi-Amritsar Junction 12498 Amritsar Junction-New Delhi 14662 Jammu Tawi-Barmer 12412 Amritsar Junction-Chandigarh 2479 New Delhi-Lohian Khas Junction 22480 Lohian Khas Junction-New Delhi (This is a partial list. Please check NTES for the full list of cancelled trains.) How to Stay Updated To avoid inconvenience, travelers are encouraged to use the NTES application to confirm train schedules and cancellations. This system provides real-time updates, ensuring passengers are informed well in advance. Indian Railways continues to prioritize passenger safety and service reliability by undertaking necessary maintenance and operational adjustments. While these cancellations may disrupt travel plans, they are aimed at enhancing the overall efficiency of the railway network.

DPR to determine Jammu Rly Divns jurisdiction

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 1: Final jurisdiction of Jammu Railways Division under Northern Railways will be determined based on Detailed Project Report (DPR), an official statement released by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, said today. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The new division will have four sections totaling 742.1 kilometers including Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur (now Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan)-Srinagar-Baramulla (423 kilometers). Bhogpur Sirwal-Pathankot (87.21 kilometers), Batala (excluding)-Pathankot (68.17 kilometers) and Pathankot-Joginder Nagar (NG Section 163.72 kilometers). The Divisional [] The post DPR to determine Jammu Rly Divns jurisdiction appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

20 injured as bus overturns in fields on Jalandhar-Jammu NH

Hoshiarpur: A private bus overturned in fields near village Kurala on the Jalandhar-Jammu National Highway on Wednesday, injuring 20 passengers, police said. Tanda SHO Gurwinderjit Singh said nine injured passengers were admitted to the Civil Hospital in Dasuya, while 11 were taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Tanda for treatment. Four critically injured passengers were referred to the Government Hospital in Hoshiarpur from Dasuya Civil Hospital here. Some of the injured were discharged after receiving first aid at CHC, Tanda. The bus was travelling from Pathankot to Jalandhar, the police said. Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver lost control of the vehicle near Kurala village, SHO Singh said, adding that further investigations are underway.

3 Khalistani terrorists killed in UP encounter

Chandigarh: The Uttar Pradesh Police and Punjab Police successfully carried out a joint operation, leading to an encounter with three members of a Pakistan-sponsored Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) terror module. The suspects fired at the police party during the operation, which took place in the Puranpur area of Pilibhit district. The three 'terrorists', believed to have been responsible for the grenade attack on a police station in Gurdaspur, were identified as Gurvinder Singh, Virendra Singh alias Ravi, and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, confirmed the 'breakthrough' in a post on X, stating, In a major breakthrough against a #Pak-sponsored Khalistan Zindabad Force(KZF) terror module, a joint operation of UP Police and Punjab Police has led to an encounter with three module members who fired at the police party. Yadav further explained that the terror module is involved in grenade attacks at police establishments in the border areas of Punjab. The encounter occurred within the jurisdiction of Puranpur Police Station, Pilibhit, and involved joint police teams from Pilibhit and Punjab. The three suspects were reportedly involved in a grenade attack on a police post in Gurdaspur. Following the encounter, the injured individuals were taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Puranpur for urgent medical treatment. Investigations into the terror module are ongoing, with authorities working to uncover more details about the group's operations. Further, as per the Punjab DGP, during the operation, the police recovered two AK rifles and two Glock pistols, believed to have been used in the attacks. Meanwhile, on Sunday, two gangsters were arrested, and four magazines and 14 cartridges were recovered as Punjab Police's Counter Intelligence team busted a major gangster module in Pathankot.The Punjab DGP confirmed the arrests on Saturday. The arrested individuals have been identified as Sunil Kumar alias Ashu, a resident of Rauwal in Batala, and Dilpreet Singh alias Dil, a resident of Raimal in Batala. Accused Sunil alias Ashu has a criminal history, including a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. He was released on bail from Gurdaspur Jail on February 27, 2024, according to a release. Yadav said that preliminary investigations revealed that the accused had received the consignment of weapons from the Ajnala area of Amritsar following instructions from their handlers and were directed to deliver it to an unknown party. Further investigations are underway to uncover the source of the weapons and identify more suspects involved in the network. Sharing details of the operation, AIG CI Pathankot, Sukhminder Singh Mann, said that secret information was received indicating that accused Sunil Kumar and Dilpreet Singh were in contact with unknown gangsters and had recently received a consignment of arms and ammunition. Based on this information, the CI Pathankot team laid a trap and arrested both accused individuals after recovering the arms and ammunition from their possession. He further stated that efforts are underway to track previous consignments retrieved and delivered by the accused. In this regard, an FIR (No. 71 dated 21.12.2024) has been registered under Section 25 of the Arms Act and Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) Amritsar. The arrested accused will be produced in court to obtain police remand, the statement added.

Alternative route to Leh-Ladakh: MoD seeks transport ministry nod for tunnel

CHANDIGARH: The Union Ministry of Defence has recommended that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) approve the construction of the Bhubhu Jot tunnel. This tunnel will connect Jogindernagar in the Mandi district with the Kullu district via the Lag Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is proposed that this route be designated as a project of strategic importance, serving as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh. In its communication, the Defence Ministry emphasized the crucial role that this highway and tunnel will serve as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh, thereby greatly improving the operational readiness of the armed forces stationed in forward areas. In addition to its strategic importance, the tunnel is anticipated to provide significant socio-economic benefits to the region. Consequently, budgetary provisions for this project will now be made. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the path for the construction of the much-awaited tunnel in the state has been cleared. He reaffirmed the state governments unwavering commitment to the project. I personally met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 25 to request prioritisation of this project while considering its strategic importance. The issue was also raised with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The construction of this tunnel would be a milestone for the development of the state. he said. The proposed Bhubu Jot Tunnel aims to reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by 55 kilometers. Once completed, it will also shorten the travel distance between Kullu and Dharamsala or Pathankot. The tunnel will start in Kullu and connect to the Mandi-Pathankot National Highway at Ghatasni via the Lag Valley, Bhubu Jot, and Shilh-Badhwani. This project is expected to provide significant benefits to the local population, boost tourism in the region, and strengthen the economy of the people.

Defence Ministry recommends MoRTH approval for Bhubhu Jot tunnel in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: The Union Ministry of Defence has recommended the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for approval of the Bhubhu Jot tunnel in Himachal Pradesh as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh to be designated as a project of strategic importance. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the critical role the highway and tunnel would play, significantly enhancing the operational readiness of the armed forces in forward areas. Apart from its strategic significance, the tunnel was expected to bring substantial socio-economic benefits to the region and budgetary provisions for the project will now be made accordingly. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the he path for the construction of the much-awaited Bhubu Jot Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh has been cleared and he reaffirmed the state governments unwavering commitment to the Bhubu Jot Tunnel project. I personally met the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 25 to request prioritization of this project while considering its strategic importance. The issue was also raised with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The construction of this tunnel would be a milestone for the development of the state, he said. The proposed Bhubu Jot Tunnel would reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by 55 kilometers once it is completed, the distance between Kullu and Dharamsala or Pathankot will be reduced. The road will begin from Kullu and join the Mandi-Pathankot National Highway at Ghatasni via Lag Valley, Bhubu Jot and Shilh-Badhwaniand and will deliver immense benefits to the local population and boosting tourism in the region thereby strengthening the economy of the people. The state government was prioritizing tunnel construction to enhance road connectivity, promote sustainable development and minimize environmental impact. The construction of the Bhubu Jot Tunnel would be a transformative step for the development of Himachal Pradesh. This project would not only strengthen strategic infrastructure but also catalyze socio-economic growth in the region, Sukhu added. Bhubu Jot remains covered with heavy snow during winter and the proposed tunnel will provide all-weather road connectivity. The tunnel is strategically important as it will reduce the distance from Pathankot to Manali by around 63 km and lessen the travel time by two hours. Former Chief Minister PK Dhumal had announced its construction in 2009.