The advisory highlights that prolonged exposure to low temperatures can lead to life-threatening conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning. It added that cold-related disruptions like power outages, frozen water pipes, and dead vehicle batteries can further endanger lives.

According to GMC Jammu, hypothermia—a condition in which the body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C)—is among the most dangerous consequences of extreme cold and can prove fatal if not addressed promptly. The advisory notes that frostbite, which causes damage to body tissues due to freezing, can occur rapidly, especially in exposed body parts like fingers, toes, ears and the nose.

“Cold weather causes the body to lose heat faster than it can produce it, leading to serious medical emergencies if early signs are ignored,” the advisory states.

Another significant concern, as per the KNO flagged by health authorities, is carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur when people improperly use secondary heating sources such as coal burners, gas heaters, or generators in poorly ventilated spaces during power outages.

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable during extreme cold. These include elderly persons, especially those lacking adequate heating, food or warm clothing, people staying outdoors for long durations, such as homeless individuals, hikers or workers, individuals consuming excessive alcohol or illicit drugs and infants sleeping in inadequately heated rooms

The advisory also cites statistics indicating that nearly 50% of cold-related injuries occur among people above 60 years of age, over 75% involve males, and around 20% take place inside homes.

Health experts at GMC Jammu urged people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of hypothermia appear. These include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, confusion or disorientation, memory loss, drowsiness and extreme fatigue

“Preventing hypothermia is far easier than treating it,” the advisory stressed.

For suspected hypothermia cases, the advisory recommends: moving the affected person to a warm, dry place, removing wet clothing and covering the person with blankets, warming the body slowly, starting from the core, avoiding rapid warming of arms and legs, as it may push cold blood toward the heart and trigger cardiac complications, providing warm drinks if the person is conscious

For frostbite, GMC Jammu advised shifting the patient to a warm environment, immersing the affected limb in warm (not hot) water until normal colour returns, removing tight clothing or jewellery from the affected area and avoiding rubbing or massaging frozen skin

The advisory also outlined a range of safety precautions, urging residents to: stay indoors during extreme cold spells, check on elderly neighbours and bring pets indoors, keep flashlights and extra batteries ready and avoid using candles due to fire risk, ensure proper insulation of water pipes to prevent freezing, use heating appliances cautiously and maintain adequate ventilation

Motorists have been advised to winterise their vehicles before travel by: Checking battery strength, antifreeze levels, tyre pressure and brakes, keeping fuel tanks near full to prevent ice formation, carrying a winter survival kit including blankets, flashlights, high-calorie food, water and a fully charged mobile phone

Drivers were also advised to clear snow and frost from windshields, headlamps and signal lights, use winter-grade washer fluid, and replace worn wiper blades to ensure visibility.

GMC Jammu recommended wearing layered clothing to retain body heat effectively, including Thermal inner layers, Windproof and waterproof outerwear, Warm hats, gloves, face masks and insulated boots

It appealed to the public to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and assist vulnerable individuals during the winter season.

“We wish a happy and healthy winter season to all. Collective awareness and timely precautions can save lives,”

The post GMC Jammu issues advisory on cold-weather risks appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

The rally witnessed participation of labourers and daily wagers from various government departments, who raised slogans seeking implementation of the Minimum Wages Act in Jammu and Kashmir.

The protesters also demanded that a bill for regularisation of all daily wagers be introduced and passed during the upcoming budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, scheduled to begin on February 2.

Addressing the gathering, representatives of the Sangarsh Samiti alleged that the genuine demands of daily wagers across departments have been ignored for decades by successive governments.

They said that thousands of workers continue to work under uncertain conditions, which, according to them, amounts to gross violation of human rights.

The protesters warned that if their demands were not addressed at the earliest, they would intensify their agitation.

They also announced a call for gherao of the Civil Secretariat in Jammu in the coming days to press for their demands.

The post Daily wagers protest in Rajouri, seek minimum wages, regularisation appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

Police officials said that the accident involving a tractor was reported in which two persons sustained injuries who were been identified as Vinna Kumar (23) son of Rattan Lal resident of Upper Kalakote and Neeraj Kumar (22) son of Mohinder Paul resident of Kalakote.

Both the injured were provided immediate medical assistance and, considering the nature of their injuries, were referred to GMC Rajouri for advanced treatment.

Police officials further said that injured Vinna Kumar succumbed to his injuries while the other injured is under treatment in GMC Associated Hospital Rajouri.

Police said that a case under relevant sections of law has been registered in police station Kalakote.

The post 1 killed, another injured in tractor accident in Kalakote appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

The exhibition, titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One” was recently inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, showcasing priceless relics that have returned to India after more than a century, marking a historic moment for the nation and the global Buddhist community.

During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, paid reverence to the sacred relics and described their return to India as a matter of deep civilizational pride and spiritual significance. He said that the relics of Bhagwan Buddha are not merely historical artefacts, but living symbols of India’s timeless values of peace, compassion, and harmony, which continue to guide humanity even today.

Kavinder Gupta noted that the exhibition at the historic Qila Rai Pithora complex adds a profound spiritual chapter to a site already rich in India’s heritage. He said the presence of the sacred relics at this ancient location reflects the continuity of India’s civilisation, where history and spirituality come together to inspire present and future generations.

The Lieutenant Governor lauded the efforts of the Government of India in ensuring that the sacred relics, which were taken away during the colonial period, have returned to their rightful home. He said this step has restored an important part of India’s cultural and spiritual legacy and reaffirmed the country’s role as the custodian of Lord Buddha’s heritage.

Highlighting the global reverence for Bhagwan Buddha, Kavinder Gupta said that wherever the sacred relics have travelled across the world in recent months, they have evoked immense faith and devotion among millions of people, cutting across nationalities and cultures. He remarked that this universal appeal underlines the fact that Lord Buddha belongs to all humanity and continues to connect people through shared values of peace and coexistence.

The Lieutenant Governor specifically emphasised the deep spiritual bond between Ladakh and the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha. He said Ladakh, often referred to as the “Land of High Passes” and a stronghold of Buddhist culture, has preserved and practised the Buddha’s teachings for centuries through its monasteries, traditions, and way of life.

In this context, Kavinder Gupta stated that the UT Administration of Ladakh has taken up the matter with the Union Ministry of Culture to bring the sacred Buddha relics to Ladakh as well.

“We have taken up the matter with the Union Ministry of Culture to bring the sacred Buddha relics to Ladakh, and we are hopeful that this effort will bear fruit. The presence of these relics in Ladakh, even for a limited period, will be a moment of great spiritual significance for the people of the region and for devotees from across the Himalayas,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He expressed hope that the sacred relics, if brought to Ladakh, would further strengthen the region’s role as a centre of Buddhist learning and spirituality, promote spiritual tourism, and provide devotees with an opportunity to receive the blessings of Bhagwan Buddha in the serene Himalayan landscape.

The Lieutenant Governor urged people, especially youth, to visit the exhibition and connect with the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha, which remain highly relevant in today’s world. He said the exhibition serves as a powerful bridge between India’s glorious past and its aspirations for a future rooted in peace, harmony, and mutual respect.

The post Return of sacred Buddha relics a historic moment: LG Ladakh appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

In Kashmir, special programmes were organised at Gurudwaras in several areas, including Amira Kadal, Jawahar Nagar, Allochibagh, Tral, Rangreth, Baramulla in Kashmir. Religious sermons focused on the Guru’s message of courage, equality, justice.

On this occasion Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, as per an official statement, took part in the celebrations commemorating the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji by attending the main function at Chand Buwi Kour Gurdwara, besides paying obeisance at several other Gurdwaras in the city.

Earlier on January 3, thousands of enthusiastic devotees participated in the religious procession that began from Gurdwara Yadgar Guru Nanak Patsha Bibi Chand Kour Nagar, Jammu.

After passing through the main bazaars of Jammu city and outskirts, including Swami Vivekananda Chowk, Gumat, Dogra Chowk, Bikram Chowk, Gandhi Nagar, Gole Market, Balmiki Chowk, Shivaji Chowk and Khalsa Chowk, it culminated at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Nanak Nagar Jammu, this evening.

Meanwhile, on the sacred occasion, the Minister offered his prayers and paid glowing tributes to the tenth Sikh Guru, remembering his extraordinary life devoted to the ideals of truth, justice, courage and service to humanity. He highlighted that Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s message of fearlessness, equality and unwavering commitment to righteousness continues to illuminate the path for millions across the world.

Satish Sharma highlighted that Guru Gobind Singh Ji not only shaped a strong spiritual and moral foundation for society but also empowered people to stand against injustice and tyranny. He called upon people from all sections of society, particularly the youth, to draw inspiration from the Guru’s teachings and incorporate the values of discipline, integrity, compassion and selfless service into their daily lives.

The Minister also acknowledged the immense contribution of the Sikh community to the nation, stating that their legacy of sacrifice, patriotism and service is deeply woven into the fabric of India. He appreciated the role of Sikh institutions and Gurdwaras in promoting harmony, social welfare and community service through initiatives like Langar and humanitarian outreach.

During his visits to Chand Buwi Kour Gurdwara and other Gurdwaras, Satish Sharma interacted with members of the Sikh community and religious leaders, conveying his warm greetings of Prakash Purab. He reiterated the commitment of the Government to uphold the principles of inclusiveness, mutual respect and communal harmony, inspired by the teachings of great spiritual leaders like Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

The post Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji observed with religious fervour in J&K appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita-2023 (BNSS) read with the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985, District Magistrate Jammu has ordered that no courier company, parcel service, or logistics operator functioning within the district Jammu will accept, book or transport any narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, or other contraband items unless it holds a valid transport permit under NDPS Rules 1985 and as per regulations  under Drugs and Cosmetic Act 1940.

“All courier companies and parcel services shall strictly verify the identity and credentials of consignors and consignees, including valid government-issued identity proof, maintain complete records of consignments, including sender and receiver details, parcel description, weight, booking receipt and date of booking, mode of payment received (cash, digital, cheque, UPI, card, etc.)  against each consignment along with transaction details wherever applicable,” the order read.

DM Jammu has asked them to ensure that all employees engaged in courier and parcel services-delivery staff, loaders, booking clerks, franchise workers are duly verified through local police verification and an updated register of such verified employees is maintained.

The post Transport of narcotic drugs by courier companies without valid permit banned in Jammu appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

According to officials, while on patrol near Panthal, police personnel noticed a group of individuals, residing in jhuggis, armed with sticks and engaged in violence. The police immediately intervened and brought the situation under control, thereby averting any untoward incident.

During verification, it was found that the individuals involved were from outside the state and were residing at the location as tenants. Further inquiry revealed that the landowner, Ajay Singh, son of Shankar Singh, resident of Ward No 12, Arli Hansali Road, Katra, had failed to submit mandatory tenant details to the police.

Police said that the landowner had violated the order issued by the SDM Katra on November 11, 2025, which mandated all house owners and landlords to furnish complete tenant particulars to the police.

Accordingly, FIR No 02/2025 under Section 223(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered against the landowner, and further investigation is underway.

The operation was carried out by SHO Police Station Katra, Inspector Ranjeet Singh Rao, under the close supervision of SDPO Katra Dr Bhishm Dubey and SP Katra Vipan Chandran.

Meanwhile, SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh has once again appealed to all house owners and landlords to strictly comply with tenant verification orders in the interest of public safety and maintenance of law and order. He warned that non-compliance would invite strict legal action as per law.

The post FIR registered for violation of tenant verification order in Reasi appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

According to the Police, among those convicted were 29 inter-state and 15 inter-district drug peddlers, highlighting the district police’s focused action against organised drug trafficking networks operating in and around the district.

Police officials said the cases involved the recovery of poppy straw, charas, heroin and cannabis and were registered at various police stations, including Udhampur, Rehambal, Chenani, Ramnagar and Majalta.

The recoveries were made during naka checking, highway interceptions and continuous anti-narcotics drives conducted across the district.

Each case was professionally investigated, charge-sheeted within the stipulated time, and effectively pursued before the courts. These efforts resulted in a high conviction rate, reflecting the coordinated work of Investigating Officers and Prosecution teams.

Police urged the general public to remain vigilant and report any drug-related activities to the authorities, emphasising that public cooperation was crucial in combating drug abuse.

The post Udhampur Police secure 98 convictions in 77 NDPS cases in 2025 appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

Secretary in Social Welfare department, Bashir Ahmad Khan; Director Social Welfare Jammu, Ranjeet Singh; Programme Officer ICDS, district Social Welfare Officer Jammu, Superintendent Rehabilitation Centre for the Speech and Visually Impaired (RSVI) Jammu, parents and large number of visually impaired children were also present on the occasion

Addressing the gathering, the Health Minister said that this event was an important programme as it is related to social causes, adding, “The visually impaired children have immense talent which needs to be tapped for their successful future.” She underscored that the true progress of society could be measured by the care, dignity and opportunity it provided to its most vulnerable sections.

The Minister further highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to social justice and inclusive development, with special emphasis on the welfare and empowerment of specially abled children.

“Every child is gifted in their own way. It is our shared responsibility to identify their strengths, nurture their abilities and ensure they are never left behind,” the Minister stated.

Sakeena Itoo called for a collective approach towards the hand-holding of specially abled children, stating that they required not only financial assistance but also emotional support, access to quality education, skill development and an enabling environment to realise their full potential.

The Minister also highlighted various initiatives of the Social Welfare Department aimed at early intervention, rehabilitation, inclusive education and livelihood support for persons with disabilities. She urged parents, teachers, civil society organisations and the community at large to work in close coordination with the government to build a more sensitive and inclusive ecosystem.

The Minister further said that J&K was a welfare state and the Social Welfare Department was the main arm of the government for providing welfare to its citizens. She also lauded the efforts of the department and RSVI for bringing confidence in children so that they could perform at such stages.

Sakeena Itoo also said that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, government was committed for the welfare of specially abled persons, adding that strengthening social welfare framework and promoting inclusive growth remained the core objective of the government.

Paying tributes to Louis Braille on the 217th birth anniversary, the Minister said, “By organising this day, we are remembering a great personality who illuminated the darkness of visually impaired persons by introducing the Braille System by which blind people can read and write by touch.”

On the occasion, the Minister also felicitated various visually impaired children who had received numerous accolades and medals in different sports championships across the country. She also felicitated various children who had excelled in various exams of different classes.

The post Sakeena Itoo emphasises inclusive support for specially abled children appeared first on Greater Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the health sector in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant improvement over the past year and the Government remains committed to its further strengthening. He said that under the present government, healthcare services have improved considerably, particularly after the Health Minister assumed charge, though sustained efforts were required to bridge remaining gaps.

The Government, he added, was pursuing pro-people policies in both the education and health sectors to ensure better services for citizens.

The Deputy Chief Minister noted improvements in hospital infrastructure, responsiveness and sanitation, and said the government was focusing on addressing challenges such as filling vacant posts and strengthening healthcare facilities, especially in Jammu region.

He urged doctors from both government and private sectors to work collectively to make the healthcare system more robust. He said though both the government and private health sector witnessed significant improvement in Kashmir, however, the health sector in Jammu has a long way to go.

He urged doctors to work with more dedication for better patient care.

“Need is to work collectively to ensure better Healthcare service delivery to the people,” he said.

He also appreciated the organizers of the blood donation camp and the hospital management, including Dr Jasveer Kour and Dr Harvinder Singh, for their initiative. He said that providing full body profile testing at nominal charges would greatly benefit the public.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Sakeena highlighted the critical role of voluntary blood donation in saving lives, particularly during medical emergencies, surgeries and for patients suffering from chronic illnesses. “Blood donation is very noble work and a simple yet powerful act of humanity. One unit of blood can save multiple lives”, she stated.

The Minister further said that blood donation was also very good for the health of the donor. She also lauded the initiative taken by this hospital administration for organizing this camp and encouraged citizens to participate in this noble cause.

The Minister also appreciated the hospital for launching full body profile tests at nominal rate, adding that such noble initiatives would benefit the common people in long run.

The Minister further highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the government upgraded the medical infrastructure facilities across length and breadth of Jammu and Kashmir in the last 12 months.

“Cath Labs MRI facilities, CT Scan lab and other advanced facilities are being established in GMCs and District Hospitals to provide advanced medical care services to people near their vicinities”, Minister Sakeena said.

She added that the government was committed to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure and ensure that every advanced medical facility was available to people in their nearby hospitals.

The Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister, on the occasion , also extended Gurupurab (Prakash Purab) greetings to the people, especially the Sikh community.

Director Health Services Jammu, Dr Abdul Hamid Zargar and other concerned officers were also present on the occasion.

The post Health sector registering significant improvement in J&K: Deputy CM appeared first on Greater Kashmir.