The Vaishno Devi Shrine and several hill resorts across Jammu and Kashmir, including Bhaderwah, Patnitop and Batote, received the season’s first snowfall. The snowfall ended a dry spell and is expected to boost tourism, while authorities urged caution due to slippery roads

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board temporarily suspended registrations in Katra as thousands of devotees arrived for New Year 2026. The move aims to ensure crowd safety and smooth management. Registrations are expected to resume after a review of crowd density