Speculation over poll results

As the parliamentary elections on the two Jammu seats are over, speculation over the likely winners have become the talk of the region. On Sundays, gossip corners can be seen in the city at various places like salons, tea shops and vegetable markets where people can be seen discussing the prospects of candidates likely to win. One can even come across heated arguments among two groups of people supporting their respective candidates. The major supporters are seen of both national parties ie the BJP and Congress, while many can be heard praising Lal Singh as a saviour of the Dogras. Vikram Sharma

Trade bodies divided

The decision of the Ministry of Home Affairs to permanently shutdown the cross-LoC trade between India and Pakistan has divided trade and business bodies in Jammu. While the Chamber of Commerce and Industry has opposed the move, the Bari Brahmana Industries’ Association hailed the decision. On a majority of issues, the two business bodies are never on the same page, which has always left Jammu at odds on various issues of concern. Sumit Hakhoo

Music mania grips youth 

There is a growing trend of featuring in music albums, especially those in Punjabi, among the youth of Jammu. Many boys and girls are heading towards the neighbouring state with the hope to perform in music videos of top Punjabi actors and singers. Though some of the videos have been shot in Dogri language also, the quality is not that good as compared to Punjabi videos. The producers of Punjabi videos, who have grown up in London, USA, Canada, etc, bring a distinct quality to their work. Vikas Sharma 

Thousands take NDA exam 

Over 10,000 youth from Jammu participated in the written examination for the National Defence Academy (NDA) held at different locations in Jammu city and adjoining localities. It is the first time that such a large number of youth, who have passed or appeared in Class XII, have appeared in the NDA exam. Such a huge participation of youth is an indication that there is enthusiasm among Jammu youth to join the defence sector as officers. Dinesh Manhotra