Latest news on Kashmir, covering politics, tourism, security, Indo-Pakistani relations, Article 370, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and regional developments.

Kashmir remains one of the world's most contested regions, with India controlling approximately 55% of the territory as the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan administering around 30% as Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, and China holding roughly 15% in the Aksai Chin area. The region's population exceeds 12 million people across all administered areas, with Srinagar serving as the summer capital of the Indian-administered portion.

Political developments continue to shape the region following the Indian government's revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, which ended the special autonomous status that Jammu and Kashmir had held since 1947. The region was simultaneously reorganised into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without one). Elections held in 2024 resulted in the National Conference forming a government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, though significant powers remain with the Lieutenant Governor. The restoration of full statehood remains a central demand from local political parties and residents.

Kashmir's breathtaking natural beauty continues to attract visitors from across the globe. Dal Lake in Srinagar, known as the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir", offers iconic shikara rides and houseboat stays against the backdrop of Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers", operates one of Asia's highest cable cars and world-class skiing facilities, while Pahalgam serves as the gateway to the Amarnath pilgrimage and offers stunning trekking opportunities. The region's tourism sector has shown resilience, with winter destinations reporting strong visitor numbers and the government investing heavily in infrastructure development.

The Kashmir dispute traces its origins to the 1947 partition of British India, when Maharaja Hari Singh's decision to accede to India sparked the first Indo-Pakistani war. A UN-mediated ceasefire in 1949 established the Line of Control, which continues to divide the region. The conflict has generated three major wars between India and Pakistan, numerous border skirmishes, and an insurgency that began in 1989. UN Security Council resolutions from 1948 and 1949 called for a plebiscite to determine Kashmir's future, though this has never been conducted.

Beyond politics, Kashmir boasts a rich cultural tapestry woven from centuries of Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Sikh influences. The region is renowned for Pashmina shawls, hand-knotted carpets, saffron cultivation, and walnut woodwork. Religious sites span the spectrum, from the Hazratbal Shrine and Jamia Masjid to the Shankaracharya and Amarnath temples. The Valley's cuisine, architecture, and artistic traditions reflect its position at the crossroads of Central Asian, Persian, and South Asian civilisations.

Stay informed about Kashmir's evolving situation through our NewsNow feed, which provides comprehensive, up-to-date coverage from reliable sources across the region. Whether you're interested in political developments, security updates, tourism opportunities, or cultural stories, our feed delivers timely news on all aspects of this complex and fascinating region.

Kashmir - Modi

Showing articles that match Modi in the headline