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Omar rakes up statehood issue, hopes J&K will again be state

Kashmir's historic link with Katra built on 931 bridges, 38 tunnels

One of the most critical upgrades is the inclusion of silicon heating pads under water tanks and bio-toilets, preventing freezing and ensuring functionality even in sub-zero conditions

Throwback to 2009, when The Tribune’s Jupinderjit Singh boarded the newly opened Jammu-Udhampur train through picturesque mountains

To launch multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore at Katra

PM Modi to inaugurate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link today

Towers 359 meters (1,178 feet) above the Chenab river, 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower

The first passenger train to set off from Delhi and reach Srinagar via the pilgrim town Katra, the base for the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

Omar Abdullah, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, expressed his excitement over the upcoming inauguration of the Kashmir rail link, calling it a 'landmark day' for the valley. He highlighted the project's long history, dating back to his childhood, and the positive impact the rail service will have, including affordable travel and relief from inflated airfare prices. Abdullah emphasized the benefits for tourism, trade, and the local economy, particularly for transporting goods like fruits. He also invited pilgrims to the Amarnath yatra, assuring adequate security. He praised the engineering feats of the Chenab and Anji bridges along the route, recognizing the challenges involved in the project's construction. Finally, he noted that the train service will offer affordable and convenient travel, with plans to eventually extend the route to Jammu. (This summary is generated via AI.)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids at 32 locations in Jammu and Kashmir targeting hybrid terrorists and overground workers linked to Pakistan-backed terror groups. These groups include The Resistance Front (TRF), United Liberation Front Jammu & Kashmir (ULFJ&K), and others affiliated with banned organizations like Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The individuals targeted are suspected of facilitating terrorist activities by distributing weapons, explosives, and narcotics, radicalizing youth, and disrupting peace. Investigations revealed that Pakistan-based handlers use social media and encrypted apps to coordinate these activities, including the use of drones to deliver supplies. The raids yielded items like live cartridges and digital devices, which will be forensically examined to uncover the full extent of the terror network. (This summary is generated via AI.)

In January 2025, Jammu and Kashmir police in Baramulla investigated the sexual assault of a 16-year-old mentally challenged girl who was found to be 25 weeks pregnant. After initial arrests based on the victim's testimony, DNA analysis excluded those suspects. Through persistent investigation and forensic analysis, police identified and arrested three perpetrators: Mohd Rafiq Bhat, Mohd Nasarullah Khan, and Jawad Alam. DNA evidence confirmed Alam as the biological father. Police investigations revealed that all three men independently assaulted the victim on multiple occasions, with Alam responsible for the pregnancy. The police highlighted their commitment to justice for the vulnerable and their use of advanced technology to identify the perpetrators, urging anyone with further information to come forward. (This summary is generated via AI.)

The Jammu & Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a case against former Tehsil Supply Officer (TSO) Nazir Ahmed Wani for allegedly accumulating assets worth over Rs 1 crore disproportionate to his known income. The charges stem from a secret verification by the ACB that revealed Wani had acquired significant assets including houses in Jammu and Ramban, a commercial complex in Banihal, vehicles, and other financial documents. The ACB conducted a search of Wani's residence with a warrant and in the presence of a magistrate, uncovering evidence of unaccounted wealth. The case falls under the Prevention of Corruption Act. (This summary is generated via AI.)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate several infrastructure projects in the Jammu region, including the first Vande Bharat train from Katra to Srinagar, marking a historic moment for the region. He will also inaugurate the Chenab Bridge (the world’s highest railway arch bridge) and the Anji Bridge (India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge), and lay the foundation stone for several development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore. Tightened security measures are in place, especially in Reasi and Udhampur districts, due to recent incidents of terrorism. The Vande Bharat trains will significantly reduce travel time between Katra and Srinagar. PM Modi will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for road projects, flyovers, and a medical college. The article provides details on the train schedules. (This summary is generated via AI.)

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to inaugurate the Katra-Srinagar rail link, Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Jitendra Singh, along with former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, reviewed the project. They inspected the Chenab Bridge and other arrangements for the PM's visit. Abdullah expressed excitement, noting the railway will finally connect the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India. He emphasized the project's long history, having started when he was a child, and highlighted its importance for improved connectivity, economic benefits, and easier travel for residents, particularly due to frequent highway closures. Jitendra Singh also reviewed rally preparations, interacting with BJP leaders and officials. (This summary is generated via AI.)

A police constable, Ruksar Ahmad Khan, died after his car skidded off the road and plunged into a gorge along the Mughal Road in Poonch district. The accident occurred late Wednesday night near Pir Ki Gali while he was traveling from Kashmir to Surankote. Locals rescued him and brought him to a hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival. (This summary is generated via AI.)

On Thursday, the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre in Leh held a passing out parade for 194 new Agniveer recruits. The ceremony, reviewed by Major General Gurpal Singh, GOC, Uniform Force, celebrated the recruits, who hailed from all over Ladakh. The reviewing officer commended the Agniveers for their impressive parade, urged them to serve the nation with pride, and congratulated their parents. He also praised the Ladakh Scouts for their valor and urged the young soldiers to strive for excellence and defend the nation's sovereignty. Medals were awarded to outstanding performers during the training. (This summary is generated via AI.)

The Congress party criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting that those responsible for the Pahalgam terrorist attack have not been brought to justice. They suggested these terrorists may also be linked to other attacks in the region. This criticism was made in a post on X by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. Modi is scheduled to launch development projects and inaugurate the Chenab bridge, along with flagging off Vande Bharat trains. (This summary is generated via AI.)

PM Modi in J&K today, will flag off two trains

Two pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains will ply the Srinagar-Katra-Srinagar route with a key halt at Banihal

Quick action teams (QATs) will be deployed for immediate response to threats, and bomb disposal squads will be stationed along the route to detect and neutralise explosives

The young Agniveers were awarded medals for their outstanding performance during the training

The interior is inspired by Karsari art, incorporating modern design with traditional Deodar wood — that has been crafted into geometric shapes

This will be the first visit of Modi to Jammu and Kashmir post Operation Sindoor

Searches linked to overground workers of various terrorist outfits

The Lieutenant-Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier BD Mishra (Retd), chaired a meeting to discuss the upcoming e-auction of minor mineral blocks in Ladakh. Principal Secretary Sanjeev Khirwar provided an overview of the legal framework governing minor minerals, including the definition under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the government's authority to regulate them. He highlighted the identification of 67 minor mineral blocks/plots in Leh and Kargil, with 25 approved for auction. He also discussed the Chairman of LAHDC Kargil's request for additional blocks, statutory provisions regarding the auction process (including District Survey Reports and environmental clearances), the e-auction portal preparations, and the concerns of the LAHDCs. The Lieutenant-Governor appreciated the efforts, stressed the importance of addressing the Hill Councils' concerns, ensuring environmental protection through strict adherence to district survey reports, and the need to amend DMFT rules for Ladakh. (This summary is generated via AI.)