First-of-its-Kind Initiative in Collaboration with IMD Met Centre Srinagar Marks Beginning of Ramazan-ul-Mubarak

Srinagar: Under the guidance of President All JK Shia Association, Molvi Imran Ansari, a Ruet-e-Hilal Committee constituted by the Association today convened at the India Meteorological Department – Met Centre Srinagar, Rambagh, to observe the crescent of Ramazan-ul-Mubarak.

The delegation was led by All JK Shia Association General Secretary Abid Hussain Ansari and comprised prominent religious scholars and representatives of the Association, including AJKSA Spokesperson Molvi Dr. Sayyed Taqib Rizvi, AJKSA Spokesperson Molvi Sheikh Zakri, Molvi Syed Gazanfer, and Molvi Firoz.

This marks the first time that any religious organisation has undertaken such an initiative in formal collaboration with the India Meteorological Department (Met Centre Srinagar), reflecting a progressive and coordinated approach towards moon sighting through scientific and traditional methods.

Speaking on the occasion, General Secretary AJKSA Abid Hussain Ansari said that the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will function on a permanent basis and will observe the lunar moon every Islamic month. He added that this step will help end dependency on moon sighting reports from other places and ensure local, credible, and timely confirmation for the community.

The crescent was observed live at the Met Centre, and at the conclusion of the session, special prayers were offered for the Muslim Ummah across the globe, as well as for peace, harmony, and unity in India.

The All JK Shia Association announced that the 1st of Ramazan will be observed tomorrow, 19 February 2026, following confirmation of moon sighting reports from other parts of India, including Kargil and Lucknow.

The All JK Shia Association reiterated its commitment to fostering unity, transparency, and collective participation in religious observances, while strengthening cooperation between religious institutions and scientific bodies.