Srinagar: Several upper reaches of Kashmir, including the popular tourist destinations of Gulmarg and Sonamarg, received fresh snowfall on Thursday, while the plains, including Srinagar, experienced heavy rainfall, officials said.
Authorities reported that the fresh spell of snow began late Wednesday night and continued intermittently. The famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded an accumulation of five to six inches of new snow since the previous day.
Other high-altitude areas also witnessed fresh snowfall, including Pir Ki Gali along the Mughal Road in the Shopian district, Razdan Top, Gurez, and Sadhna Top in Kupwara. Most upper reaches of the valley have been receiving intermittent snowfall since Sunday.
In contrast, the plains of the valley were lashed by intense rainfall, leading to a drop in daytime temperatures across the region.
Weather Forecast and Advisory
The Meteorological Department has predicted prolonged inclement weather until March 20. Officials stated that intermittent light to moderate rain or snow is likely at most places until Friday. The higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and areas in south Kashmir may experience moderate to heavy snowfall.
The forecast for the coming days indicates:
· March 21-24: Generally dry weather is expected, though isolated places may receive rain or snow on March 23.
· March 26-28: A fresh spell of light rain or snow is likely, particularly in higher altitudes.
· March 29-31: Another wet spell is anticipated.
The MeT department has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h, with isolated hailstorms possible in some areas.
Rain and Snowfall Data
Providing a data update, Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, said that most places in Jammu and Kashmir recorded light to moderate rainfall and snowfall over the past 24 hours.
He reported significant rainfall in several areas, including 29.5 mm in Baramulla, 29 mm in Poonch, 25.5 mm in Batote, and 20.6 mm in Pahalgam. He further confirmed that Gulmarg received 23 cm of fresh snow during this period.
Advisory Issued
Issuing an advisory, Dr. Ahmed urged travelers, transporters, and those planning to traverse high-altitude areas and crucial mountain passes to plan their journeys accordingly, keeping in mind the weather conditions and the potential for slippery roads and reduced visibility. Farmers have been advised to resume agricultural activities only after March 21.
Fresh Snowfall Blankets Gulmarg, Sonamarg; Heavy Rain Lashes Plains in Kashmir
Netanyahu Delays Strike on Iranian Gas Fields Following Trump Request
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced late last night that Israel would postpone planned attacks on Iranian gas infrastructure, following a direct request from former US President Donald Trump. The disclosure came during a press conference in Jerusalem, as regional tensions continue to escalate following a series of overnight strikes across the Middle East.
Netanyahu confirmed that Israel had agreed to “hold off” on targeting Iranian gas fields, a move that signals a potential, albeit temporary, de-escalation in one aspect of the ongoing conflict. The Prime Minister also pushed back against suggestions that he had drawn the former US leader into the war with Iran, rejecting accusations that Trump’s involvement had been a result of Israeli pressure.
The announcement comes amid a backdrop of heightened military activity. Blasts were reported in both Jerusalem and Tehran, underscoring the expanding reach of the conflict. Iran’s Foreign Minister had earlier issued a stern warning, stating that Tehran would respond with “zero restraint” should there be further attacks on its critical infrastructure.
Gulf States Report Widespread Attacks
The overnight period also saw significant turmoil in the Gulf region. The United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain have all reported missile and drone attacks in recent hours. Both the UAE and Bahrain have attributed the aggression to Iranian forces, marking a serious escalation in hostilities that threatens to draw in more regional powers.
Qatar Energy Complex Struck, Global Gas Prices Surge
In a development with immediate global economic repercussions, Qatar’s Ras Laffan energy complex was attacked. Qatari officials condemned the strike, with the Prime Minister describing it as a “very dangerous escalation by the Iranians.” Ras Laffan is one of the world’s largest natural gas production facilities, and the attack has already led to a sharp increase in gas prices across the UK and Europe, raising concerns about energy security and economic instability.
Casualty Figures and Conflict Timeline
Meanwhile, the human toll of the broader conflict continues to mount. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has updated its casualty figures, reporting that at least 3,186 people have been killed in Iran since the war began on 28 February. The report did not specify the ratio of combatants to civilians.
The situation remains highly volatile, with diplomatic channels apparently active behind the scenes even as military exchanges continue. The coming hours will be critical in determining whether the restraint shown by Israel regarding the gas fields can pave the way for broader de-escalation, or if the conflict will widen further.
IDF Confirms Airstrikes in Syria, Citing Protection of Druze Community
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday that it conducted airstrikes against targets in southern Syria overnight, stating the operation was a direct response to recent violence affecting the local Druze population.
In a statement released at 12:29 GMT, the IDF said its aircraft targeted a command centre and weapons located within military compounds belonging to the Syrian regime. The strikes were carried out, according to the military, following “attacks against the Druze population in As-Suwayda,” a major city in southern Syria known for its significant Druze community.
“The IDF will not tolerate harm towards the Druze population in Syria and will continue to operate to defend them,” the military’s statement added.
There was no immediate comment from Syrian state media or the Syrian regime regarding the strikes or the alleged attacks on the Druze community in the As-Suwayda Governorate.
Druze Community
The Druze are an Arabic-speaking ethno-religious minority whose communities are primarily located in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. In Syria, the Druze population is concentrated in the southern province of As-Suwayda.
The city and its surrounding areas have largely remained on the sidelines of Syria’s ongoing civil war, with local factions often seeking to maintain a neutral stance. However, the region has periodically witnessed tensions with the central government in Damascus over issues of local governance, economic hardship, and security.
This is not the first time Israel has acknowledged intervening in Syria’s conflict, though it typically frames its actions as necessary countermeasures against Iranian entrenchment or Hezbollah operations near its border. The stated motivation of protecting a specific minority group is a notable justification in this instance.
The IDF has not yet released details on the extent of the damage or potential casualties from the overnight strikes. The situation in southern Syria remains tense.
Release of Environmental Activist Sonam Wangchuk Sparks Hope in Ladakh
Srinagar – Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk has been released following a decision by the Indian authorities to lift his detention under the National Security Act (NSA). The move comes amid ongoing concerns about the treatment of civil society activists and the broader political situation in Ladakh, which remains under India-administered governance.
The release has been welcomed by regional political leaders, who described the detention as unwarranted and called for broader measures to ensure justice for individuals held under similar circumstances.
The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, welcomed Wangchuk’s release, stating, “Detaining him under NSA was wrong. His release is a positive step. The situation in Ladakh should improve, and promises made to the people of both Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh must be fulfilled.”
Abdullah further urged authorities to consider releasing other individuals detained for minor charges or those who have already served more than their potential sentences, especially as the region approaches Ramadan’s end and Eid al-Fitr, a period often associated with goodwill gestures.
PDP Leadership Criticizes Initial Arrest
Mehbooba Mufti, president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former Chief Minister, also condemned Wangchuk’s detention, emphasizing that no case should have been filed against him in the first place. She described Wangchuk as a patriot committed to environmental protection and social welfare, unfairly targeted as a criminal.
Mufti said, “A person who has contributed so much to the environment, the community, and society was branded a traitor. This is unjust and sends the wrong message about civic engagement in the region.”
MP Engineer Rashid referred to the release as a hopeful signal for the wider region, noting that it could foster a more constructive environment for dialogue and civic participation in India-administered Ladakh.
Observers in the region suggest that while Wangchuk’s release is a positive development, it also underscores the precarious status of civil liberties in politically sensitive areas, where activism can be misinterpreted as a security threat.
The detention and subsequent release of Wangchuk have highlighted ongoing tensions between governance, security, and civil society in Ladakh. Analysts say that genuine stability in the region requires fulfillment of local promises, protection of civic freedoms, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders across all sectors, including environmental and community leadership.
This episode also raises questions about the use of laws like NSA in India-administered Kashmir and Ladakh, especially in cases involving peaceful activism and advocacy for social or environmental causes.
Wangchuk, known internationally for his innovative environmental projects and community-focused initiatives, has long been a prominent figure advocating for sustainable development and education in high-altitude Himalayan regions. His detention sparked widespread discussion about the balance between security measures and protection of civic activism in politically sensitive territories.
Experts note that protecting environmental and social activists is crucial for the long-term development and ecological sustainability of regions like Ladakh, which face unique environmental challenges due to their high-altitude terrain and fragile ecosystems.
Political leaders and civil society groups have called for continued reforms and goodwill measures in the region. As Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir navigate complex governance and security challenges, they emphasize that constructive engagement, respect for civic freedoms, and transparent administrative processes are essential for fostering trust between local populations and governing authorities.
Observers suggest that Wangchuk’s release, coming at a time of religious observances and social reflection, can serve as a catalyst for more inclusive governance and reconciliation efforts in India-administered Ladakh.
Trout Production and Aquaculture Transform India-Administered Kashmir’s Economy
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir, with its abundant cold-water resources, is emerging as a promising hub for aquaculture, particularly trout and mahseer production. Recent developments presented at the National Cold-Water Fisheries Conference in Srinagar underscore the potential for the region to set a national benchmark in fisheries management and economic development.
Experts note that India-administered Kashmir offers unique natural conditions for high-value cold-water fish, and integrated development plans are being introduced to enhance both production and local livelihoods.
Officials at the conference highlighted ongoing initiatives to modernize fisheries infrastructure, including cold storage facilities, processing units, and integrated aquaculture parks. A recently approved fisheries cluster project in Anantnag aims to improve production capacity while introducing value-added services such as packaging, branding, and market access.
According to sector reports, fisheries contribute nearly 7.3% to India’s agricultural GDP, with exports from the sector doubling since 2013–14. Analysts suggest that if production is efficiently linked to modern supply chains and market networks, Jammu and Kashmir could serve as a model for national fisheries development, particularly in high-altitude regions where traditional agriculture faces constraints.
Record Trout Production and Resource Utilization
Under the Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP), trout production in the region has increased from 1,663 tonnes in 2021–22 to 2,650 tonnes in 2024–25, reflecting significant growth in cold-water aquaculture. Approximately 27,000 hectares of water resources are currently utilized for fisheries development across the union territory.
The integrated HADP projects aim to enhance agriculture and allied sectors, doubling their contribution to the regional economy and creating sustainable employment opportunities for local communities. Independent observers emphasize that while these initiatives bring economic benefits, decision-making and governance remain centralized, highlighting the need for local stakeholder participation to ensure equitable outcomes.
Cold-water fisheries face several environmental challenges, including climate change, rising water temperatures, water scarcity, slow growth of native species, and disease management.
A scientific approach has been proposed to tackle these challenges, including:
Genetic improvement of trout and carp
Climate-resilient aquaculture systems
Improved aquatic health management
Development of locally sourced feed
Additionally, drone-based transportation is being explored to deliver fresh fish from high-altitude farms to urban markets efficiently, reducing spoilage and improving distribution.
The establishment of Trout Integrated Aqua Parks in key locations like Kokernag aims to provide recreational, marketing, and value-addition opportunities, linking production with tourism and commercial services.
Under India’s broader development framework for Himalayan regions, production targets include doubling trout and mahseer output by 2030. Financial support schemes for local fishermen, such as credit access and insurance, are intended to stabilize incomes and foster economic resilience.
However, analysts caution that true sustainable growth will require genuine involvement of local communities, ensuring that economic benefits are equitably shared and aligned with regional priorities.
Integration of production with modern cold storage, processing, packaging, and branding could position Jammu and Kashmir as a national standard for fisheries development, generating employment and increasing incomes for local fishermen.
Experts highlight that while these initiatives are promising, the long-term success of the fisheries sector in India-administered Kashmir depends on balancing modernization with community empowerment and ecological sustainability.
High-altitude regions of Kashmir offer unique opportunities for premium fish production. With careful planning and technology-driven interventions, such as drones and climate-resilient farming practices, the region can enhance productivity while protecting its fragile ecosystem.
Observers note that fisheries development in the region could become a model of sustainable, integrated aquaculture in South Asia, provided local stakeholders are empowered to participate meaningfully in governance and resource management.
Indian Government Revokes NSA Detention of Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk Amid Rising Calls for Dialogue
Srinagar/Leh – The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday the immediate revocation of the detention of renowned social activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). The ministry stated that the decision aims to foster an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh and to facilitate meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders.
In a formal statement, the Ministry emphasized that the revocation came after thorough consideration of all aspects, reaffirming its commitment to provide necessary security measures for Ladakh.
Background: NSA Detention Amid Law and Order Concerns
Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent figure known for his advocacy on education and environmental issues in Ladakh, was detained on 26 September 2025 by order of the District Magistrate of Leh. This followed serious public order disturbances in the peaceful town of Leh on 24 September 2025, prompting authorities to invoke the NSA to maintain law and order.
According to the Home Ministry, Wangchuk had served nearly half of the period stipulated under the Act. The detention sparked concerns among civil society members and local communities about its potential impact on social cohesion and regional stability.
Government Perspective and Local Stakeholder Engagement
The Ministry highlighted that it remains in ongoing consultation with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of the local population. Officials emphasized the importance of constructive engagement to mitigate tensions that have affected students, job-seeking youth, business communities, tourism operators, and the broader economy.
“The recent environment of closures and protests has had a tangible impact on the peaceful social fabric and economic activities in the region,” the statement said, underlining the government’s intent to encourage dialogue and cooperative problem-solving.
Observers note that Ladakh has faced intermittent unrest due to local grievances over governance, environmental concerns, and regional development policies. Analysts suggest that the revocation of Wangchuk’s NSA detention could signal a willingness by authorities to pursue dialogue over coercive measures, potentially creating openings for negotiation through high-powered committees and other consultative platforms.
Local community leaders have welcomed the move cautiously, expressing hope that this step will enable more transparent and meaningful discussions between authorities and citizens. However, concerns remain regarding long-term solutions and the need for sustained engagement rather than temporary measures.
The Home Ministry expressed hope that issues affecting Ladakh will be addressed through constructive consultation and negotiation. While emphasizing security, authorities indicated a preference for dialogue-driven conflict resolution, with a focus on long-term regional stability and public confidence.
This development is seen as part of a broader effort to balance governance, security, and citizen engagement in Ladakh—a region with unique strategic and cultural significance in India-administered Kashmir.
Gilgit-Baltistan Erupts: Protests Intensify Over Detention of Civic Leaders
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan-administered Kashmir – March 15, 2026:
On the occasion of Al-Quds Day, communities across Gilgit-Baltistan held widespread rallies and demonstrations expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people. However, central to this year’s observances was a growing public concern over the detention of key local leaders of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit Baltistan (AACGB) under Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). The arrests have sparked a wave of outrage across the region, with citizens mobilizing to demand immediate release.
The main rally, which began at Jamia Masjid Thwar in Rondu, brought together religious scholars, social and political leaders, and hundreds of local residents. While the demonstrators raised voices for the liberation of Jerusalem and condemned ongoing atrocities against Palestinians, a parallel and equally urgent theme of the gathering was the plight of AAC leaders, including Chairman Advocate Ehsan Ali, who were arrested in recent weeks on controversial charges.
Public Protest Against Detentions
Participants carried banners and chanted slogans demanding the immediate release of detained AAC leaders. Speakers condemned the government’s use of ATA provisions to silence peaceful activists, describing the arrests as arbitrary, politically motivated, and a direct attack on civil liberties.
Allama Ghulam Abbas, addressing the crowd, remarked:
“The detention of leaders who have long championed the rights of the people is a violation of basic democratic principles. Using anti-terror laws against peaceful protests and community activism is both illegal and morally unacceptable.”
The Awami Action Committee Rondu presented a unanimous resolution at the rally, calling for the withdrawal of all ATA charges and immediate release of their leaders, framing the demand as both a matter of justice and a defense of constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
Regional Solidarity and Widespread Outrage
The detention crisis has galvanized citizens across multiple districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. In Jutal, Gilgit, community members organized rallies denouncing the arrests and calling for the swift release of AAC officials. In Khurmang, a protest led by AAC Khurmang President Shabbir Mayar condemned fabricated FIRs lodged against local leaders, highlighting that their only “offense” was to organize peaceful public gatherings, including Iftar sessions, and to advocate for justice for victims of recent incidents of violence.
Organizers emphasized that these detentions were being used as a pretext to suppress dissent and intimidate the public. The rallies reiterated that peaceful civic activism should not be criminalized, and stressed that holding leaders under ATA for organizing community discussions is a direct affront to democratic values and human rights.
The public demonstrations echo similar protests held last year across Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, and even internationally, which successfully pressured authorities to release AACGB leaders. This year, however, the issue has gained renewed urgency as the arrests appear strategically timed around Al-Quds Day, signaling an attempt to stifle both international solidarity activism and local civic engagement.
Observers note that the ongoing detentions could escalate tensions in the region, particularly as communities see the arrests as unjust and politically motivated. Leaders and activists argue that detaining peaceful civil society members under anti-terror laws sends a dangerous message that public dissent and advocacy for justice are considered threats to state authority.
Grassroots Mobilization and Community Response
Throughout the day, residents in Rondu, Khurmang, and Jutal maintained a steady presence in protest, highlighting the resilience of civic activism in the region. Citizens expressed that their participation was not only in solidarity with Palestinians but also as a demonstration of support for local leaders fighting for justice and community rights.
The Awami Action Committee Rondu, in closing statements, extended gratitude to participants for standing united in support of their detained leaders. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue peaceful advocacy until all leaders are released, framing the movement as a struggle for justice, freedom of expression, and protection of human rights in Gilgit-Baltistan.
This year’s Al-Quds Day in Gilgit-Baltistan has highlighted dual struggles: the fight for Palestinian solidarity on the international stage and the urgent local demand for the release of civic leaders detained under contentious anti-terrorism laws. The demonstrations underscore the deep-rooted commitment of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to justice, peaceful protest, and human rights, reflecting a region-wide insistence that activism and advocacy must never be criminalized.
Weather Alert in India-Administered Kashmir: Rain and Snow Likely Until March 19, Says Meteorological Department
Srinagar: Authorities in Srinagar say unsettled weather conditions are expected to continue across Jammu and Kashmir until March 19, with intermittent rainfall in the plains and snowfall predicted in higher elevations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the region could witness cloudy conditions and scattered precipitation over the coming days, potentially affecting travel on mountainous routes.
According to the meteorological centre in Srinagar, rainfall during the last 24 hours was scattered across the Kashmir Valley, with some areas experiencing showers while others remained dry.
Cloudy Skies and Light Rain in Plains
Weather officials said that conditions are expected to remain generally cloudy through Thursday, with light to moderate rainfall in the plains and scattered snowfall in higher altitudes.
However, forecasters predict a brief dry spell on March 13 and 14, offering temporary relief from the ongoing wet conditions.
The weather pattern is expected to change again by the weekend.
Snowfall Possible in Higher Reaches
According to the forecast:
March 15–16: Skies likely to remain cloudy with light rain in plains. Snowfall is expected in higher areas during the night of March 15 and early morning of March 16.
March 17: Mostly cloudy conditions with chances of light rain or snowfall at isolated locations during the night.
March 18–19: Cloudy weather likely to persist with scattered rain or snowfall across parts of the region.
Weather conditions are expected to stabilize afterward, with generally dry weather predicted for March 20–21, officials said.
Advisory Issued for Mountain Routes
The meteorological department has also issued an advisory warning of possible temporary disruptions on high-altitude roads and major mountain passes due to changing weather conditions.
Officials urged commuters and travelers to remain cautious, particularly in areas prone to snowfall or slippery road conditions.
Mountain highways and high passes frequently face traffic interruptions during sudden weather shifts in the region.
Severe Rainfall Deficit Recorded This Winter
The latest weather outlook comes after the region experienced a significant rainfall deficit during the winter season.
Meteorological data shows that between December 2025 and February 2026, precipitation levels were 65 percent below normal across the region.
During this period:
Normal rainfall: 284.9 mm
Actual recorded rainfall: 100.6 mm
Monthly breakdown reveals:
December: 13 mm recorded against a normal of 59.4 mm (78% deficit)
January: 73.4 mm recorded against a normal of 95.1 mm (23% deficit)
February: Only 14.2 mm recorded against a normal of 130.4 mm (89% deficit)
Although some western disturbance systems affected the region in January, they were not strong enough to offset the major deficit recorded earlier in the winter season.
Impact on Water Resources and Agriculture
Weather experts say prolonged precipitation shortages can affect snow reserves, water availability, and agriculture across the Himalayan region.
Snowfall in the higher mountains plays a crucial role in replenishing rivers and irrigation systems during spring and summer.
The current forecast of intermittent snowfall in elevated areas could therefore provide limited relief to the region’s water reserves, though experts caution that the broader seasonal deficit remains significant.
Staffing Crisis in India-Administered Kashmir: Over 40,000 Government Posts Lie Vacant as Recruitment Process Reviewed
Srinagar: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are reviewing the slow pace of recruitment after officials revealed that more than 40,000 government posts remain vacant across multiple departments, raising concerns about the efficiency of public services in the region.
The review was chaired by Atal Dulloo, the top civil servant in the territory, who convened a high-level meeting with administrative secretaries and officials from recruitment agencies.
According to officials, the meeting examined the status of vacant positions and the progress of recruitment being conducted through the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB).
The discussion comes amid growing concerns among job seekers in the region, where prolonged recruitment processes have often led to uncertainty for thousands of candidates awaiting government employment.
Over 40,000 Positions Await Recruitment
Officials presented data showing that 40,661 posts are currently vacant across government departments.
The breakdown includes:
3,808 gazetted posts
24,507 non-gazetted posts
12,351 Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) positions
The Health and Medical Education Department accounts for the largest share of vacancies. According to officials, the sector alone has:
2,497 gazetted positions
8,088 non-gazetted posts
2,712 MTS positions
Other departments facing significant shortages include agriculture, power development, finance, revenue, forests, public works, and youth services and sports.
Analysts say these gaps have direct implications for governance and service delivery in the region.
Authorities Push for Faster Recruitment
During the meeting, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo stressed the urgency of filling critical posts, arguing that efficient governance depends heavily on adequate staffing.
He instructed administrative departments to hold regular coordination meetings with recruitment agencies to address pending issues and ensure that vacancies are processed without delay.
Officials were also directed to strictly follow recruitment timelines and ensure that all referred posts are advertised promptly.
Dulloo further recommended that recruitment agencies publish comprehensive examination calendars, enabling candidates to better prepare and reducing uncertainty surrounding the hiring process.
Recruitment Progress and Bottlenecks
Officials acknowledged that procedural hurdles have slowed several recruitment processes.
The Chief Secretary took note of these obstacles and directed departments to issue necessary clarifications and remove administrative barriers so that hiring could proceed more smoothly.
Observers note that long recruitment cycles have been a recurring concern in the region, often leaving applicants waiting for years after applying for government positions.
Authorities said improving transparency and establishing predictable recruitment schedules could help reduce anxiety among candidates and restore confidence in the system.
Status of Recruitment Through JKSSB
According to Vikas Kundal, the selection board has received 46,744 posts since 2019.
Of these:
9,260 posts were withdrawn
37,484 posts remained for recruitment
The board has already completed selections for 32,956 posts, including 27,449 selections related to the current recruitment period.
However, thousands of positions are still moving through various stages of the hiring process:
2,532 posts yet to be advertised
4,768 posts in the examination phase
1,258 posts in the selection stage
1,477 posts awaiting finalisation after advertisement
Recruitment Timeline Through JKPSC
Meanwhile, Bashir Ahmad Dar briefed the meeting about recruitment for gazetted posts.
The commission currently has 1,745 posts under process, including:
1,573 positions with prepared selection schedules
172 posts awaiting scheduling due to procedural issues
The commission has also prepared a recruitment timeline aiming to complete selections in phases:
630 selections by March 2026
476 selections between April and May 2026
158 selections between June and July 2026
309 selections between August and September 2026
Department-wise data shows that the Health and Medical Education Department again accounts for the largest number of pending posts, followed by school education, general administration, and higher education.
Implications for Job Seekers and Governance
Officials at the meeting emphasized that delays in recruitment not only affect public administration but also contribute to uncertainty among job seekers.
Thousands of educated young people in India-administered Kashmir rely on government jobs as a stable source of employment, making the pace of recruitment a politically and socially sensitive issue.
Authorities concluded the meeting by directing departments to immediately forward all clear vacancies—those without legal or procedural complications—to recruitment agencies so they can be advertised and filled as soon as possible.
Indian Supreme Court Grants Bail to Kashmiri Leader Shabir Ahmed Shah After Years in Jail
SRINAGAR: India’s Supreme Court on Thursday granted bail to veteran Kashmiri political leader Shabir Ahmed Shah in a long-running terror funding case that has been under investigation since 2017.
Shah, 72, had been in custody since June 2019 after being arrested by India’s federal investigation agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Authorities accused him and several others of allegedly financing and encouraging separatist activities in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Supreme Court Allows Appeal Against Bail Rejection
The ruling was delivered by a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, who accepted Shah’s appeal challenging a decision by the Delhi High Court that had denied him bail in June last year.
In its order, the Supreme Court cited procedural irregularities in the ongoing trial and highlighted Shah’s prolonged incarceration without the conclusion of proceedings as key factors in granting bail.
Legal observers say the decision reflects the court’s concern over lengthy pre-trial detention in high-profile political cases.
Allegations of Funding Separatist Activities
According to Indian prosecutors, Shah allegedly encouraged public support for Kashmir’s separation from India and praised militants killed in the conflict as “martyrs.”
Investigators claim funds were raised through hawala networks and cross-Line of Control trade, which allegedly helped finance protests and political mobilization in the region.
Authorities also accused several individuals named in the case of organizing demonstrations and encouraging stone-pelting incidents targeting security forces. Prosecutors further alleged that public property, including government-run schools, was damaged during protests linked to the broader conspiracy.
Political Organization Under Scrutiny
Prosecutors have also linked Shah’s political party, the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party, to advocacy efforts calling for Kashmir’s separation from Indian administration.
Shah has long been a prominent figure in Kashmiri politics and has spent decades advocating for what he describes as the right of self-determination for the people of Kashmir.
Kashmiri Leaders Welcome Court Decision
The Supreme Court’s decision was welcomed by several political leaders in Kashmir.
Regional lawmaker Sajad Lone described the ruling as “good news,” expressing hope that Shah would now be able to return home and focus on recovering his health after years of imprisonment.
Meanwhile, Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq urged courts to extend similar relief to other detainees from the region.
Writing on the social media platform X, Farooq said he hoped the judiciary would provide relief to other political prisoners and young detainees held in prisons inside and outside Jammu and Kashmir.
“We fervently hope that courts, in the same spirit, grant relief to all political prisoners and youth languishing in jails, bringing hope to their families and the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he wrote.