Author: The Dispatch Staff

Bhaderwah/Jammu:  The high altitude tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district are safe for tourists as Army personnel are dominating all the mountain peaks, a senior police officer has said. Doda Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sandeep Mehta said a security plan is in place in the district to ensure peaceful culmination of over 70 major and small pilgrimages in the higher reaches of the hilly district. “The tourist footfall in the district is increasing with each passing day and we have taken all necessary arrangements for the safety of the holiday-makers. We have also requested the Army for…

Srinagar:  Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday launched a web portal to expedite the process of providing relief and compassionate appointment to the families of terror attack victims in the Union Territory. Sinha said the portal, developed by the Home Department in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), will act as a centralised platform to capture and maintain comprehensive district-wise data on terrorism-affected families and provide institutionalised support to them. “The initiative will streamline and expedite the process of providing relief, compassionate appointments, and other forms of assistance to those who have suffered from terrorism in…

Pahalgam:  Three months after the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam that left many tourists dead, the perpetrators are still at large, raising concerns over security lapses in the region and sparking growing calls for fixing accountability. While the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made two arrests in connection with the April 22 incident, those nabbed are believed to be the ones who provided logistical support, while the actual terrorists responsible for the ghastly crime have evaded security agencies. The security vacuum has prompted Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, who will complete his five-year term next month, to take full responsibility for…

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday wished Jagdeep Dhankhar, who resigned as Vice President on Monday, good health and expressed hope that his successor would do justice to the office. “First of all, I hope for his better health and pray to God to keep the former vice president well and give him a long life. I think this is the first time perhaps that a vice president of the country has resigned in such a manner. “Obviously, his health did not allow him to work further. We hope the next vice president will do justice…

Leh: Connectivity was swiftly restored in the Kilima–Chilling sector of the Nimu–Padum–Darcha road in Ladakh after flash floods triggered landslides, snapping the vital link and leaving several locals and tourists stranded. In a prompt overnight response on July 20, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Yojak launched a 50-foot Bailey Bridge at KM 92.40, successfully restoring the disrupted route. The road, which serves as a key lifeline to the remote Zanskar region, was rendered impassable due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. Thanks to the tireless efforts of BRO personnel, the bridge was installed overnight, ensuring quick…

Zanskar: Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, had the honour of meeting His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama during his visit to Karsha Photang, Zanskar today. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural bonds shared between the people of Ladakh and His Holiness. Dr. Akhoon extended a warm and respectful welcome on behalf of the people of Kargil district, expressing heartfelt gratitude for His Holiness’s presence in the region—a visit that holds immense spiritual and emotional significance for the local community. The CEC was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Shri Rakesh Kumar (IAS), SSP…

Kargil: Deputy Commissioner and CEO, LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar (IAS), conducted a comprehensive review of all Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) pertaining to the Zanskar Sub-Division during a meeting held at the Tourist Facilitation Centre (TFC), Zanskar. The review meeting was attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Zanskar, Tehsildar Zanskar, and officials from the R&B Department, including the Executive Engineer, Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs), and Junior Engineers (JEs). The DC closely examined the status of ongoing works under the Revenue Complex Zanskar, Public Works Department, and the Zanskar Development Authority, emphasizing adherence to quality standards and the importance of timely project completion. He…

Leh: A total of 412 toolkits have been delivered to eligible artisans in Leh district under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, marking a significant milestone in the scheme’s local implementation. The progress was reviewed during a meeting chaired by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Leh, Sonam Nurboo (JKAS) at the DC Office’s Mini Conference Hall. The review meeting featured a comprehensive presentation by a representative from the PMU Vishwakarma, highlighting various aspects of the scheme, including UT-wise implementation status, block-wise performance in Leh, and trade-wise recommendations at different verification stages. Special focus was given to traditional trades such as sculpting and…

Leh: The Ladakh Pollution Control Committee (LPCC) carried out a cleanliness drive along the Agling–Choglamsar stretch of the Indus River on Saturday, as part of Compassionate Month celebrations and in support of the ongoing Indus Cleanup Campaign led by LAHDC Leh. The initiative underscores LPCC’s continued commitment to environmental conservation and active community engagement in safeguarding Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and natural heritage.

Leh: In a powerful display of patriotism and empowerment, the “Shakti Yatra: Ride with Pride 2.0” biker rally was warmly received by Mera Yuva Bharat Leh in collaboration with the University of Ladakh and its NSS Wing at the Leh campus on Monday. The rally is part of nationwide events commemorating Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed every year on July 26, in honour of the brave soldiers of the Kargil War and Operation Sindhuraksha. Flagged off from Jammu on July 18, the rally is now in its third successful edition. It has passed through Udhampur, Srinagar, and Kargil, and will conclude…

Leh: A five-day capacity building workshop on Psychosocial Care in Disaster Management began today at the Conference Hall of the National Health Mission (NHM) office in Leh. The initiative, aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness in the health sector, is part of the Central Sector Scheme on Health Sector Disaster Preparedness and Response, and is being implemented by the Department of Psychosocial Support in Disaster Management (DPSSDM), NIMHANS Bengaluru. The workshop is designed to train psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counsellors, and medical officers to effectively address the psychosocial needs of survivors during and after disasters. The inaugural session was graced by…

Zanskar: Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar (IAS), chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Revenue Complex in Zanskar to assess the pace of ongoing development works and streamline revenue-related operations in the region. Present in the meeting were SDM Zanskar Mohd Hassan, Executive Engineer R&B Zanskar, Naib Tehsildars of Padum and Lungnaq, along with Girdawar Qanoongos, Patwaris, and other revenue officials. During the session, the DC directed the R&B Division to ensure that the ground floor of the new Revenue Complex is fully furnished and completed by August 12, 2025. This will allow for the early relocation of the SDM…

Leh: In a significant step towards inclusive mobility, the District Social & Tribal Welfare Department, Leh, in collaboration with ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India), Mohali, organised a Motorized Tricycles Distribution Camp at Nari Niketan, IBEX Colony, Leh. A total of 45 motorised tricycles were distributed to beneficiaries aged 16 and above, each with a minimum of 60% disability. The event was held in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk (IAS), who served as the Chief Guest. Ali Shah, Executive Director of Power Finance Corporation (PFC), was the Guest of Honour. DC Leh appreciated the efforts…

Leh: The Health Department of Leh successfully concluded its ‘Month of Compassion’ campaign, which was observed across the district throughout July 2025. The initiative focused on promoting inclusive, accessible, and empathetic healthcare services for all, especially the underserved and remote communities. A range of impactful healthcare activities were carried out at the district headquarters, in Kharnakling, and across all block-level areas. Mobile Medical Units were deployed to ensure that even the most remote villages received necessary medical services. Healthcare professionals, community volunteers, parents, and local residents participated actively, helping to strengthen trust and engagement between the healthcare system and the…

Leh: The Ladakh Pencak Silat Association successfully hosted the Asmita Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League 2025 at the NDS Indoor Stadium in Leh, bringing together around 150 women and girls from across the region to compete and showcase their martial arts talent. The event was graced by Mr. Abhinav Sharma, Director, who travelled from Delhi to Ladakh to serve as the Chief Guest. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his support and presence. Shri Tsering Tashi, DYSSO Leh, attended as Guest of Honour. Other notable guests included Mrs. Hashay Maloo, President of Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam; Mrs. Kunzang Dolma, President of…

Leh: A team of 26 women bikers from the Shakti Udghosh Foundation, led by Dr. Preeti Chaudhary, was flagged off today from the Council Secretariat, LAHDC Leh. The rally, titled “Ride with Pride,” will cover Pangong, Rezang La, Hanle, and return to Leh. The ride is dedicated to Operation Sindoor and commemorates Kargil Vijay Diwas, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of India’s armed forces. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Hon’ble Deputy Chairman LAHDC Leh, Shri Tsering Angchuk, and SSP Leh, Ms. Shruti Arora. Dy Chairman Tsering Angchuk praised the initiative and said the rally is a symbol of courage…

Leh: In a landmark discovery for India’s birding and conservation community, the elusive Long-billed Bush Warbler (Locustella major) has been officially sighted in Ladakh’s Suru Valley, marking its first confirmed sighting in India since 1979. The rediscovery took place on July 15 at an altitude of 3,200 metres, near the village of Sankoo in Kargil district. A dedicated team of five birders—Harish Thangaraj, Lt Gen Bhupesh K. Goyal, Manjula Desai, Rigzin Nubu, and Irfan Jeelani—had specifically planned their expedition around this near-mythical species, often referred to as a ‘lost bird’ due to its vanishing presence over the decades. https://youtube.com/shorts/9otOZ5j9dGA?si=ngmCJBcvL-5_Ey5m Visual…

Leh The Ladakh Umlingla Challenge 2025, part of the high-altitude race series Summit or Surrender, concluded successfully on July 21 with a medal ceremony at Shaolin Ladakh, Leh. Held at Umlingla Top—the world’s highest motorable road—the event pushed human endurance to its limits at an elevation of 5,799 meters (19,024 feet), surpassing even the altitude of Everest Base Camp. Flagged off at 7:00 AM on July 20 by Assistant Commandant Dr. Suraj of the 21st Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, the race featured multiple categories including 70K, 50K, 42K, 21K, and 10K distances. Each route posed extreme physical and…

Jammu: In a significant development set to shape the future of governance in Ladakh, a high-level delegation of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh is poised to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deliberate on crucial matters including the upcoming Council elections, 33 percent reservation for women, potential fresh delimitation, and the eagerly awaited formal creation of five new districts in the Union Territory. The dialogue comes at a critical juncture as the five-year term of the current LAHDC Leh is set to conclude in October-November. With elections expected around September-October, the meeting aims to ensure a…

Leh: A total of 122 smart classrooms are now fully functional across the Union Territory of Ladakh, as revealed in data tabled by the Ministry of Education during the ongoing session of the Lok Sabha. The announcement marks a major milestone in the region’s journey towards digital education, particularly in geographically remote areas. The update was part of a broader parliamentary response to Unstarred Question focusing on infrastructure development under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme. In addition to smart classrooms, the data highlighted the operationalization of 171 ICT labs, the construction or upgrading of 16 schools, and the establishment of 29…