Is Hass Creamier Than Indian Avocado? Taste, Texture, And More Explained
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J&K BJP denies association with man seen molesting woman in viral video, condemns incident
Srinagar, Sep 03: The Jammu and Kashmir BJP has denied any association with the individual seen allegedly molesting a woman during a protest at Hari Singh High Street in Srinagar, saying the person is not associated with the party. In a statement, the party said it had cross-checked the information with multiple sources and clarified that the individual seen in the viral video is not associated with the BJP. The party said that during large public gatherings, unidentified and unaffiliated individuals may join protests, adding that the presence of such individuals cannot be attributed to or linked with the organisers or the BJP. It said efforts were underway to identify the individual involved, as well as the portals that allegedly revealed the woman's face. The party said that once identified, the matter should be allowed to take its own course in accordance with the law. The J&K BJP strongly condemned the incident and urged people to refrain from spreading unverified information or falsely attributing an individual's actions to the BJP.
Dry weather, brief spells of rain likely in J&K till Sep 12: MeT
Srinagar, Sep 03: The weather in Jammu and Kashmir is likely to remain generally dry, however brief spells of are expected to accompany at scattered places, according to a forecast issued by the Meteriological Centre Srinagar on Thursday. An official spokesperson said that the Union Territory will experiance generally dry weather till starting from today---September 3---till 12. Breaking it down on a daily basisi, the spokesperson said that on September 3, te weather is forecasted to remain generally dry in J&K coupled with brief spell showers at few places. Moving to the next day, Friday---September 4---the weather is predicted to turn wet with spells of light to moderate rain along with thunderstorm at many places. Some of the places may receive intense showers, he said. Summing up the next week, he said that during 5 to 12 September, the weather will agin turn generally dry with the possibility of brief spell of rain and thunder at isolated/scattered places.
Bear mauls man in Anantnags Dooru orchard
Anantnag, Sep 03: A man was injured after being mauled by a bear in an orchard in the Mirmadan area of Dooru in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that the man was injured after being attacked by the wild animal in the Dooru area of Anantnag. He said the man was soon shifted to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Dooru for initial treatment, where doctors referred him to Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag for further treatment. The man was later identified as Mohd Maqbool Bhat, a resident of Mirmadan, Dooru. Meanwhile, a probe into the incident is underway.(KNO)
Pakistani intruder apprehended along IB in Jammus Kanachak
Jammu, Sep 03: A Pakistani intruder was apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) along the International Border in the Kanachak sector of Jammu on Thursday morning, officials said. Officials said the intruder was apprehended by personnel of 44 BSF Battalion near Border Out Post (BOP) Sohan in morning hours. He said following the apprehension, the man was taken into BSF custody, while senior officiala also reached the spot and took stock of the situation. Pertainly, the apprehended person is presently being questioned to ascertain his identity, purpose of entry and other relevant details, officials said.(KNO)
Yasin Malik willing to face death penalty in Sarla Bhat case, announces divorce from Mushaal
Srinagar, Sep 03: Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail, has reportedly told a Srinagar court that he no longer wishes to contest the trial in the 1990 murder case of Kashmiri Pandit nurse Sarla Bhat and is willing to face the death penalty. Malik has also announced his decision to divorce his Pakistani wife, artist and activist Mushaal Hussein Mullick. Malik submitted a 25-page written statement before the Additional Sessions Court in Srinagar on Wednesday through his lawyer, Abu Adil Pandit. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 19, reported NDTV. In his statement, Malik said he would no longer contest the proceedings in the Sarla Bhat murder case. However, he made it clear that his decision to withdraw from the trial should not be treated as an admission of guilt. I will no longer contest the trial and the death penalty may be considered for me, Malik said, according to reports. Malik denies allegations While announcing his decision, Malik maintained that he had been falsely implicated in the case due to political circumstances. He said the decision to withdraw from the proceedings was taken after careful deliberation and after performing Istikhara , an Islamic prayer traditionally offered before making an important decision. Who was Sarla Bhat? Sarla Bhat was a Kashmiri Pandit staff nurse at the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Srinagar. She was abducted in April 1990, during the peak of militancy in Kashmir, and her body was recovered days later. The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police reopened the case in 2025 and carried out searches at locations linked to Malik and other accused persons. The chargesheet named Yasin Malik, Khurshid Ahmed Chalku, Abdul Hameed Sheikh, Mohammad Yusuf Sofi and Ghulam Mohammad Taploo. Chalku remains absconding, while Sheikh, Sofi and Taploo have died. Malik is therefore the key surviving accused named in the case. Yasin Malik announces divorce from Mushaal In the same statement, Malik announced his decision to end his marriage to Mushaal Hussein Mullick. The couple married in 2009 and have a daughter, Razia Sultana, who is 13 years old. Through this affidavit, I also wish to address my wife and my daughter. For the last eight years, I have not been able to hear your voices or communicate with you, as I was not permitted phone calls or video conferencing with you. I know that my time with you has been limited and uncertain. You are Twenty (20) years younger than me, and I do not want you to spend the rest of your life carrying the burden of my circumstances or living as a widow. I therefore request you to find the courage to begin a new chapter of your life with dignity and hope. I shall always love, respect and remember both of you in this world and in the next life. Wherever my destiny takes me, my prayers, affection and blessings will always remain with you. That, before I will be hanged, I have taken the decision to separate you from the bond of our Nikah. I dont know how I will pronounce separation from you Nelson-Mandela helped me to pronounce my true feelings, Malik wrote in the affidavit. I shall personally never regret the life comrade Nomzamo and I tried to share together. Circumstance beyond our control, however, dictated it should be otherwise. I part from my wife with no recriminations. I embrace her with all the love and affection I have nursed for her inside and outside prison from the moment I first met her. Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you will appreciate the pain I have gone through. Malik has been lodged in Tihar Jail since 2019. Yasin Malik's separate terror-funding conviction Malik's latest statement comes more than four years after his conviction in a separate terror-funding case. In May 2022, a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Delhi convicted Malik after he declined to contest the charges. He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment. The NIA has challenged the sentence and sought its enhancement to the death penalty.
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Meet the 'Turtle Women' of Amazon: 7 Indigenous women are bringing vulnerable river turtles back
Amul Becomes World's Strongest Dairy Brand. Top Indian Food Brands Reach USD 9.9 Billion
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Vande Bharat to make experimental halt at Anantnag
Anantnag, Sep 03: The Ministry of Railways has approved an experimental stoppage of the Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express at Anantnag railway station, officials said. In a communication issued by the Railway Board, the Board said the stoppage will be provided for Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, at Anantnag. The Railway Board has directed that the stoppage be introduced from an early convenient date, subject to requisite security clearance. The Board has also directed the concerned authorities to closely monitor ticket sales at Anantnag station to assess the performance of the stoppage. Give wide publicity, ensure compliance and confirm, the communication states. The move is expected to improve rail connectivity for residents of Anantnag and adjoining areas and benefit tourists, traders, students and other passengers travelling between Jammu and Kashmir. The stoppage will initially be experimental, with passenger response and ticket sales to be monitored before a decision is taken on its continuation. Railway sources told KNO that the stoppage is likely to become operational by the end of September. The exact date of commencement, along with the arrival and departure timings at Anantnag, is yet to be notified.(KNO)
Education is a right, marginalised students must not face neglect: Rahul Gandhi
Nashik, Sep 03: Education is not a privilege, but the right of every student in India, and students from marginalised communities should not face neglect from the system, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has said. He met a delegation of tribal students, including those who were on a hunger strike to press for their demands, during his visit to Nashik in Maharashtra on Wednesday. The students were protesting over a range of issues, including the condition of ashram schools meant for tribals. Gandhi, in a post on X, later said, Education is not a privilege -- it is the right of every student in India. The Congress leader said during his Nashik visit, he met with a delegation of tribal students and carefully listened to their problems and demands. Every student has the right to a respectful, safe, and conducive environment for their studies, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha asserted. Students from marginalised communities should not face neglect from the system; they need its support and every possible assistance, he added. During his Nashik visit, Gandhi interacted with district-level leaders of the Maharashtra Congress and asked them to stand firmly by the party's ideology and ensure justice for the people.
2 people were killed and suspect is dead in downtown Minneapolis shooting
Minneapolis, Sep 03: Two people were killed and the suspect is dead after a shooting in a downtown Minneapolis apartment building Wednesday afternoon, according to police. Three Minneapolis police officers were also injured, including two of them from gunshot wounds, police Sgt. Garrett Parten said at a press conference on Wednesday evening. All three officers are in stable condition, according to Hennepin County Medical Center. A 911 call about shots fired at the building came in just after 4:30 pm and officers entered the building three minutes later to find victims inside the high-rise, Parten said. They heard more gunshots and followed them to a higher floor, where they found a haze that significantly limited their visibility, he said. This is a tremendously tragic event and our thoughts and prayers are with the families, the loved ones of those who lost their lives, those who were injured and with the injured officers and their families, Parten said. One of the victims was fatally shot at the scene, and one died after arriving at the hospital, he said. Parten said it was not immediately clear how the shooter died. Hennepin County Medical Center said it received seven patients but didn't share additional information about the conditions of those wounded. Julius Bailey was sitting outside of his apartment building when he heard gun shots and saw a man he recognised as a resident of the building holding a pistol. Bailey said he heard a woman screaming and immediately started running away. He said he counted eight shots. Bailey said that he recognised the man holding the gun because he was someone who was known for showing off his weapon. Bailey said he has tried to avoid the man since moving into the building in June. I could tell he was trouble, he said. Chris Miller, who also lives in the apartment building, said he heard a rapid succession of gunshots and quickly ran outside for safety. He said he believed he knew who carried out the shooting and that he encountered someone in the hallway with a handgun earlier this week and reported that person to management. Video posted to social media showed police aiming rifles upward at an apartment tower near the Minneapolis Convention Center. Officials warned residents to avoid the densely populated Loring Park neighbourhood nearby. Minnesota Gov Tim Walz said in a post on social media that state officials are on the ground helping local law enforcement respond to the shooting. Grateful to law enforcement actively working to ensure the safety of our neighbours in Downtown Minneapolis this afternoon, Walz said. Minnesota is praying for our first responders. The FBI is responding to the shooting and will offer any and all resources necessary to assist local authorities, Director Kash Patel said in a post on the social platform X.
India's 7.8% growth despite global disruptions remarkable: FM Sitharaman at investors meet in US
New York, Sep 03: India recorded a remarkable growth of 7.8 per cent in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026-27 despite global disruptions, and against all odds, remains the fastest-growing major economy in the world, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said. Sitharaman on Wednesday participated in a high-level business roundtable with investors, organised by the Consulate General of India in New York in association with Bank of America, New York. Addressing investors, Sitharaman said that despite global disruptions and against all odds, India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy in the world, recording a remarkable growth of 7.8 per cent in Q1 of FY 2026-27, the Finance Ministry said in a post on X. Sitharaman arrived here after participating in the G20 finance ministerial meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. Sitharaman added that with its strong reform orientation, India has also provided greater regulatory certainty through a range of reforms, including the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Such reforms have contributed to ensuring ease of compliance and reducing paperwork, which has remained a prime focus of the Government of India since it assumed office over a decade ago, the post on X said. She added that among the key areas on which the government has focused are creation of capital assets and providing sustained support to industry through infrastructure development, particularly aviation; fostering a friendly and conducive investment climate; promoting the development of AI and data centres; supporting global capability centres; ensuring credit availability to MSMEs; and reducing non-performing assets (NPAs) of banks. These measures have helped create a more enabling business environment for banks and industry to thrive, grow and emerge stronger, the finance minister said. Sitharaman further said that India has consistently remained committed to the path of fiscal prudence and fiscal discipline over the past several years, despite the ongoing challenges confronting the global economy since the onset of COVID-19. She highlighted the investment climate in India that has improved significantly, with both the central government and state governments demonstrating greater keenness and competitiveness in attracting and facilitating investments in their respective regions. Such efforts are part of the larger national endeavour towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the minister said. Earlier, in his welcome address, Indias Ambassador to the United States Vinay Kwatra said that the GDP numbers for the first quarter manifest the resilience of the Indian economy. He said both India and the US can benefit from Indias fast-growing economic trajectory by creating stronger linkages between trade and investment between the two countries, according to the Finance Ministrys post on X.
Indian racing prodigy Atiqa Mir records two top-four finishes in WSK Final Cup
FRANCIACORTA (Italy), Sep 2: Indian racing prodigy Atiqa Mir overcame setup issues to collect two impressive top four finishes in Round 1 of the WSK Final Cup here, continuing her upward trajectory in the world of karting. The qualifying session didnt go as per plan for the 11-year-old and she could only set the ninth []
Watch: PM Modi's Avocado Post Got Everyone Talking. What Luke Coutinho Told NDTV
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent social media reel on avocados has brought fresh attention to a fruit that has rapidly moved to Indian homes.
DC reviews railway goods services for fruit transport in Anantnag
Anantnag, Sep 2: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat on Wednesday reviewed the operationalisation of railway goods services for transporting horticulture produce from the district to markets outside Jammu and Kashmir, stressing coordinated efforts to ensure timely movement of fruit during the harvest season. Chairing a meeting at the Deputy Commissioners office, Bhat said civil administration, railway authorities, fruit associations and transporters must work together to make effective use of the available rail freight services and address logistical bottlenecks. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr Muzamil Maqbool, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Tariq Ahmad Malik, SDM Bijbehara Tanveer Ahmad Tanveer, the Chief Horticulture Officer, SDPO Bijbehara, officials from Anantnag Railway Station, the President of Fruit Association Qazigund and representatives of the Transport Association Anantnag. Officials discussed the availability of railway goods services, operational arrangements and infrastructure required for smooth transportation of horticulture produce. The meeting was informed that horticulture is one of Anantnags key economic sectors, with around 32,381 hectares under orchards and an annual fruit production of nearly 3 lakh metric tonnes. Given the large volume of produce, railway freight was described as an important option for timely dispatch to outside markets. Officials also said Jablipora, Ashajipora and Batengoo are the districts three major fruit mandis, serving as key collection and marketing centres for horticulture produce. Participants discussed railway goods services as a cost-effective alternative to road transport, particularly during the peak apple harvest, to improve market connectivity for growers and traders. The DC directed all stakeholders to take necessary measures for effective utilisation of the railway freight service to facilitate timely transportation of horticulture produce across the district.
AI transforming education, jobs and other sectors: CUK VC
Ganderbal, Sep 2:Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the educational, research and employment landscape, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Vice-Chancellor Prof. A RavinderNath said Wednesday, stressing that technological advancements must ultimately contribute to improving the quality of human life and serving societal needs. AI is creating new possibilities for economic empowerment and intellectual-property generation, Nath said while inaugurating a two-day international workshop on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Education at the varsitys Tulmulla campus. Organised by the Department of Information Technology, the workshop is being held as an International Academic Partnership Meet focusing on emerging technologies and their applications in education. Highlighting the importance of partnerships and knowledge-sharing in harnessing emerging technologies, Nath stressed the need to convert Indias vast data resources and demographic dividend into useful information for developing policies, products and processes. He also underlined the need to use emerging technologies responsibly and productively, saying the additional time and convenience created by technology should be channelled towards creativity, innovation and addressing human concerns. Vice-Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Romshoo, the chief guest, said the workshop was being organised at a time when AI had become an integral part of contemporary life and education. Recalling the evolution of access to knowledge from books and libraries to the internet, search engines and now generative AI, Romshoo said humanity had moved from accessing information to using increasingly sophisticated tools capable of processing and generating knowledge. He cautioned, however, that merely using tools such as ChatGPT should not be mistaken for becoming AI competent. Romshoo stressed the need to move beyond AI literacy towards becoming AI wise, with human judgement, creativity, imagination and wisdom continuing to remain indispensable. He said AI could not replace teachers but would transform their role, allowing educators to devote greater attention to creativity, inspiration, critical thinking and meaningful engagement with students. Chairman, Vision Digital India and AI Evangelist Dr Hari Krishna Maran said AI was not about replacing human intelligence but about making work simpler, more productive and innovative. He said the AI Training Mission of Vision Digital India, supported by Intel, had expanded across educational institutions, adding that the workshop also witnessed the establishment of its 99th AI Lab. Director, Finland 2030 Educational Initiatives, MeikeKrautscheid, said AI was expected to transform a substantial proportion of jobs globally and that education would be among the sectors most significantly affected. She stressed the need to develop human capabilities in synergy with technology and outlined five key pillars of the Finland 2030 co-academic curriculumsocio-emotional skills, 21st-century life skills, career planning, innovation and entrepreneurship, and global outlook and awareness. Dean, School of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, said AI had transcended geographical boundaries and emerged as a transformative force in education. He said AI should not be viewed merely as a source of disruption but as a technology that would change the nature and content of jobs. Mir urged students and faculty members to acquire new competencies early and remain prepared for a rapidly changing employment environment. Early bird catches the worm, he said, stressing the importance of learning AI at the earliest. Dean, International Affairs, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, who chaired the session on the International Academic Partnership Meet on emerging technologies, highlighted the importance of adaptability, continuous learning and international academic partnerships in an era of rapid technological transformation. She said institutions and individuals must be prepared to learn, unlearn and relearn while remaining open to new knowledge and opportunities. Tiwari described knowledge as a factor that transcends boundaries and urged students to combine strong foundations with openness to new learning. Earlier, Dr. Sonal Kumar, Vice-President, Stevens Strategy, USA, shared insights into the transformation of higher education. She emphasised the need for Indian universities to adopt data-driven, globally aligned strategies. Kumar said that under NEP 2020, institutions must focus on developing strategic visions, modernising teaching pedagogy and embracing technology, particularly in areas related to AI and examination lifecycles. The dignitaries also inaugurated the AI Trainer Centre of Excellence at CUK and released the Global Research Journal, started by Harvard University in collaboration with the Global Economic Forum. Organising Chair Dr Yash Paul said the programme aims to promote meaningful engagement with emerging applications of AI in teaching and learning, academic research, content creation, productivity enhancement, assessment and other areas of higher education. Faculty members, senior functionaries of the university, scholars and students were present on the occasion.
CHINAR International holds meet in Pulwama
Pulwama, Sep 2: CHINAR International organised an awareness and engagement programme at the Municipal Council, Pulwama, bringing together representatives from the trade and business sectors, government departments, community groups, the Bar Association and civil society. The programme aimed to familiarise stakeholders with CHINAR Internationals work in Pulwama and Shopian and explore opportunities for collaboration, partnerships and collective action. The event began with an overview of the organisations vision, mission and key areas of intervention, followed by presentations on its community-based initiatives in the two districts. An interaction between CHINAR International board members and representatives of different stakeholder groups provided an opportunity to exchange views and identify areas for future collaboration. Renowned psychiatrist and CHINAR International board member Dr. MushtaqMargoob spoke about the organisations journey, vision and community-based approach. CHINAR has always believed that children should not be uprooted from their homes and communities. Instead, we should create opportunities for them to flourish within their own environments, he said. He added that the organisation focused on recognising the potential of young people and supporting them in pursuing their aspirations. Several beneficiaries, including students and entrepreneurs, shared their experiences and spoke about CHINARs support. Mohammad Aslam Deedad of Achagoza, Pulwama, said livelihood assistance from CHINAR helped him rebuild his life after losing both legs in an accident. There was a time when I had lost all hope after losing my legs in an accident. CHINAR supported me with a grocery business, which helped me rebuild my life. Today, I am able to support my family, raise my children and look ahead with hope, he said. Muzaffar Ahmad Awan of Zampathri, Shopian, shared his journey from dropping out of school in sixth grade to completing postgraduate studies in linguistics. CHINARs support came as a ray of hope and transformed my life. Currently, I run my own tuition centre and try hard to help children who are on the verge of dropping out, as I once was, he said. The programme also discussed avenues for continued engagement, including partnerships, community outreach, resource mobilisation, institutional support and advocacy. The purpose of todays programme was to bring diverse stakeholders onto a common platform, familiarise them with our work and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships and future collaboration, said JaveedHajam, assistant director, finance and procurement, CHINAR International. The engagement was part of CHINAR Internationals efforts to strengthen ties with local institutions, community representatives and other stakeholders and expand opportunities for collaborative initiatives supporting children, youth and families in Pulwama and Shopian.
Clogged drain near Baramulla graveyard sparks residents outrage
Baramulla, Sep 2:Residents of Bagh-e-Islam in Baramulla's Old Town have expressed anger over a clogged drain passing through one of the town's largest graveyards, alleging that official neglect has led to wastewater overflowing into the burial ground. Locals said the drain has remained blocked for a long time due to poor cleaning and maintenance, causing sewage and wastewater to spill into the graveyard, especially during heavy rainfall or when the water level rises. This is not merely a drainage issue. Wastewater is entering the graveyard and, at times, flowing into the graves. It is deeply distressing for the families whose loved ones are buried here, said Showkat Ahmad, a resident. The graveyard, located in the densely populated Old Town area, is among the oldest and largest burial grounds in Baramulla, with thousands of people buried there. Residents said the burial ground holds immense emotional and religious significance for the community and should be protected from sewage, waste and neglect. Even people who have moved away from Baramulla remain emotionally connected to this graveyard because their loved ones are buried here. The authorities must ensure the drain is cleaned properly, said Altaf Ahmad Dar. The residents urged the Municipal Council Baramulla to visit the site, clear the blocked drain immediately and take permanent measures to prevent wastewater from entering the graveyard. They also demanded regular cleaning and inspection of the drainage channel, saying temporary clearance alone would not solve the recurring problem.
Sajad Lone flags development, public service issues during Kupwara tour
Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference president and MLA Sajad Gani Lone on Tuesday questioned the performance of the government and raised several issues related to development, public services and the functioning of government departments during a tour of various areas of Kupwara district. Talking to reporters in Kupwara, Lone raised concerns over the pace of development and alleged shortage of staff in various departments. He also raised the issue of salaries of Gram Rozgar Sahayaks (GRS), the functioning of the Government Medical College, matters concerning the Education Department and other issues affecting people at the grassroots level. It appears that the government is nowhere on the ground, Lone said, stressing that mere announcements were not enough and that people needed to see tangible development and effective governance. The Peoples Conference leader called for greater accountability and urged the government to address the grievances of the people of Kupwara and ensure that administrative and developmental institutions function effectively. Lone, as per the KNS had undertaken an extensive tour of various areas of the district and interacted with people during the visit.
Srinagar, Sep 2:Mirza Ghalib is finding a Kashmiri voice in Aks-e-GhalibDast-e-Shifa, a one-hour film that looks beyond his poetry at the man, his relationships, faith and political outlook. Directed and scripted by Arshad Mushtaq also known as ArshMushtaq, the Kashmiri-language film was screened at INOX Cinema here on Tuesday evening. The film is based on Kashmiri translations of Ghalibs poetry by Dr. Showkat Shifa, who has also produced it. It is a very humble film, around Ghalibs aesthetics, his ideas and his poetry. So, this is less of a biography, more of a poets imagination, which is actually created through visual narrative, Mushtaq said. The best part is we tried to bring it to Kashmir, he said, explaining the films focus on Ghalibs connection with the Valley. We explore the Kashmiri connection of Ghalib. As we say, if Ghalib wouldnt have been an Urdu or Persian poet, he would have been a Kashmiri poet, Mushtaq said. Ghalibs work has been personified and translated into Kashmiri. This one-hour film is a first step in this direction, he said. Shifa said the project was aimed at making Ghalibs thought accessible to a new generation through the mother tongue. This was not just a film. It was an attempt to bring Ghalib hometo make his timeless thought speak in our own mother tongue, rooted in Kashmiri language, culture and aesthetics, said Shifa, Professor and Head of the Department of Paediatrics at GMC Anantnag. Through this film, we aimed to introduce Ghalib to a new generation, not as a distant poet from the pages of history, but as a living voice that belongs to our sensibility, he said. The film explores Ghalib as a person, including his relationships, romance, faith and vulnerabilities. We brought to light an undiscovered aspect of Ghalib the personnot just the Shayar (poet), Shifa said. The film depicted him as a highly learned man, yet down-to-earth, living with the emotions, vulnerabilities and warmth of a common human being, he said. His interactions with people of different faiths are also part of the film. It was a portrayal that was respectful to his faith and sensitively respectful to other faiths, Shifa said. The film did not boast of his greatness; it let his greatness emerge through his own poetry, he said. The film also touches on Ghalibs romance and political outlook. At its heart, there was also a tender, often unseen chapter-his romance and sense of mutual respect, Shifa said. Ghalib was a man of his times-politically sensitive and conscious, but never a supporter of the politics of chaos, he said. ShahidGulfam plays Ghalib, while Shaheena Mahajan portrays Umrao Begum. KifayatFahim has composed the music and also sings with DeepaliWattal. The film is expected to be released in about eight months, with screenings planned at schools, colleges, universities and cultural and literary institutions.
MP Aga Ruhullah urges Budgam administration to reopen Yousmarg tourist resort
Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has urged the Budgam district administration to immediately reopen the tourist resort Yousmarg, citing severe economic distress faced by locals dependent on tourism for their survival. In a communication to the Deputy Commissioner of Budgam accessed by news agency KNS, the Lok Sabha member said a delegation of residents from Yousmarg had recently met him and expressed serious concern over the continued restrictions, especially when other tourist hotspots across the Union Territory are functioning normally. The local residents expressed serious concern that when other major tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir are open and receiving visitors, Yousmarg should also be considered for reopening, subject to all necessary safety and administrative protocols, the MP said in his letter. Describing tourism as the primary source of livelihood for the area, MP Mehdi pointed out that pony operators, horse riders, hoteliers, shopkeepers, transporters and tour guides have been the worst hit by the prolonged curbs, with many families struggling to make ends meet. In view of the above, I request your good office to kindly examine the matter on priority and take appropriate steps for reopening Yousmarg for tourists, if there are no prevailing security or administrative constraints, he wrote. He further appealed to the administration to give due consideration to the livelihood concerns of the local population while taking any decision. Yousmarg a tourist destination in central Kashmir's Budgam district remained largely inaccessible to tourists since security measures were tightened following the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Although authorities had allowed limited movement earlier this year, the flow of visitors has remained negligible, dealing a crippling blow to the local economy. Notably, Local stakeholders have repeatedly demanded the removal of restrictions, warning that the continued shutdown could push many families into irreversible financial ruin.
Future of 20,000 Medical Assistant students uncertain, govt must act: Iqbal Trumboo
PDP Senior Spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Trumboo expressed serious concern over the uncertain future of nearly 20,000 students who have completed or are currently pursuing the two-year Medical Assistant Course in Jammu and Kashmir and urged the government to intervene immediately to safeguard their careers. Tramboo, as per a statement, said that prior to 2019, the two-year Medical Assistant Course was being conducted by various colleges and educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. Students completing the course were recognised under the prevailing system and were able to seek registration as pharmacists, apply for government recruitment and obtain licences for running medical shops. Thousands of students joined this course with the legitimate expectation that their qualification would provide them with employment and livelihood opportunities. However, following changes in laws and regulations after 2019, their qualification is no longer being recognised for pharmacist registration, government recruitment and licences to run medical shops. This has left an entire generation of students facing a deeply uncertain future, Tramboo said. He said it was highly unjust to leave students in the lurch merely because the regulatory framework changed after they had already invested their time, money and years of education in a course that was being offered by recognised institutions. Tramboo further pointed out that the Medical Assistant Course continues to be offered by some educational institutions, despite the uncertainty surrounding the professional status and future prospects of its students. The government must immediately clarify the status of this course and prevent more students from being pushed into an uncertain career path. At the same time, the interests of those who have already completed the course or are currently enrolled must be protected, he said. He demanded that the Medical Assistant Course be discontinued in its present form and that a comprehensive transition policy be framed for existing students and qualified candidates. He suggested that an appropriate equivalence or bridge-course mechanism, wherever legally permissible, should be considered so that these students can acquire a recognised pathway towards professional registration and employment. Tramboo urged the Pharmacy Council of India, Pharmacy Council of Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Secretary J&K and Secretary Health & Medical Education, J&K, to take up the issue on priority and work out a legally sustainable solution. The government cannot allow the future of thousands of young people to remain in darkness. These students should not become victims of a change in policy. Their education, financial investment and years of hard work must be respected. A compassionate and practical transition mechanism must be put in place immediately to safeguard their future, Tramboo said.
FMGE gets major student-friendly overhaul
Srinagar, Sep 2:Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) across India and from J&K have received a major relief after the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) reviews its current policy to make the exam more student friendly. The fresh measures include rationalising the difficulty level of the question paper and increasing the frequency of the examination. The decisions, announced earlier in the week, followed a meeting between NBEMS officials and representatives of the All-India Medical Students AssociationForeign Medical Students Wing (AIMSA-FMSW). Students had been protesting over the concerns of the FMGE exam held in June 2026. The agitation was called off after the meeting. J&K has hundreds of FMGs waiting to clear their NBEMS. A key decision that has been announced is to conduct FMGE three times a year from 2027. The existing permitted attempts two attempts a year. There is no cap on the number of FMGE attempts, and with the examination set to be held three times a year from 2027, aspirants will have more opportunities to clear the test. The FMGE is the mandatory screening test for foreign medical graduates who wish to work in India. Clearing the examination enables them to proceed with the registration and internship requirements prescribed by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The NBEMS has also agreed to rationalise the difficulty level of the FMGE question paper. Now, there will be more shares of low- and moderate-difficulty questions. The agreed distribution, as per the reports, is 30% low difficulty, 50% moderate difficulty and 20% difficult questions. This is expected to make the paper more balanced and reduce concerns over an unusually difficult question paper. NBEMS has also agreed to reduce the FMGE examination fee from the next examination. The revised fee has not yet been announced. NBEMS will also publish question IDs, correct answer IDs, candidates' response IDs and marks awarded for each question on individual applicant portals, helping aspirants with greater access to information on their performance. The candidates will also be provided more time for biometric attendance. There have been complaints that the attendance consumes examination time. Now candidates will be given an additional one minute per section. There would be better examination-centre facilities, it has said. The board will further consider the demand for FMG representation on its grievance redressal committee. It has also agreed to more frequent interaction between NBEMS and FMG representatives. The issue of video-based questions in the June 2026 FMGE was also discussed in the meeting, with NBEMS agreeing to declare before the Delhi High Court that 14 video-based questions were included in that examination.
Nepal disaster highlights fragility of Himalayas: Karan Singh
The former Jammu and Kashmir governor Karan Singh on Wednesday expressed deep sympathy with the people of Nepal over the loss of life and property in the recent disaster and called for a coordinated regional effort to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. As per a statement issued, Karan Singh said that the cataclysmic events in Nepal have led to a considerable loss of life and property. I would like to express my deep sympathy with the people of Nepal in this hour of tragedy. My late wife was from Nepal and, therefore, I have a special attachment with that beautiful country and its people. I must add that the event that triggered the disaster took place in Tibet. In a way the episode has once again reminded of the fragility of the Himalayan region. This is why many lovers of the Himalayas, like myself, have constantly been urging that the Government of India must take some proactive role in saving the Himalayas from destruction. The destruction that 4-lane roads in such delicate areas, as the Char Dham in Uttarakhand is reprehensible. This involves massive blasting and widening of the roads. In my view 4-lane roads should totally banned in the Himalayas. There is no reason why tourists and pilgrims cannot travel on 2-lane roads. I have been suggesting for some time that the Himalayan nations should set up Himalayan authority. This would include Pakistan, Tibet, India all the way to Bangladesh & Bhutan. Only then can a uniform policy be adopted. It would be appropriate if Prime Minister Narendra Modi were to take the initiative in this regard with the Prime Minister of Nepal.
Gujarat media delegation visits Chenab-Anji bridges, Salal project in Reasi
A media delegation from Ahmedabad, currently visiting the Jammu region as part of a press tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), visited the Chenab Railway Bridge and Anji Khad Railway Bridge in Reasi district on Wednesday. The visit provided the journalists with first-hand exposure to the scale, technological sophistication and engineering features of these railway infrastructure projects. During the visit, senior railway officials briefed the delegation on the technical, structural and engineering aspects of both bridges, including their design, construction methods and the challenges involved in building them across the difficult mountainous terrain. The Chenab Railway Bridge, known for its towering steel arch structure, incorporates advanced engineering measures to ensure structural stability, safety and resilience under challenging environmental conditions. The delegation was also briefed on the Anji Khad Railway Bridge, Indias first cable-stayed railway bridge, and its unique design and construction techniques adopted to overcome the deep gorge and steep terrain. The officials highlighted the significance of the two bridges as key components of the railway connectivity being developed to establish a reliable link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country. Railway officials informed that these projects strengthen connectivity, facilitate the movement of passengers and goods, support economic activity and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. The visiting journalists interacted with railway officials and sought information on the projects planning, construction, engineering challenges, safety measures, technological innovations and operational significance. The interaction provided them with a broader understanding of the role of major railway infrastructure in improving connectivity and supporting development in Jammu and Kashmir. Later, the delegation visited the Salal Hydroelectric Project, where officials briefed the journalists on the projects significance and its role in the regions power generation infrastructure. The delegation was apprised of the projects contribution to meeting energy requirements and supporting the development of the region. The journalists also received an overview of the functioning and operations of the project, including its power generation facilities and other key aspects. The visit provided the delegation with first-hand insight into the importance of hydropower infrastructure in strengthening the regions energy capacity. The visit formed part of the PIB press tour aimed at providing media representatives with an on-ground perspective of major developmental and infrastructure initiatives in the region.
IGP Jammu leads foot patrol in city north
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu zone, Tejinder Singh, along with DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, SSP Jammu and SP North Jammu on Wednesday conducted a foot patrol in the Jammu city north area. The senior officers personally reviewed the security arrangements and took stock of the prevailing law and order situation in the area. During the patrol, they interacted with local residents and shopkeepers and assessed public safety concerns. The foot patrol was aimed at strengthening police visibility, enhancing public confidence and ensuring effective policing at the grassroots level. The senior officers directed the concerned police personnel to maintain heightened vigilance, ensure regular patrolling and remain responsive to the security and safety needs of the public. They also stressed on maintaining close coordination among field units for prompt response to any emerging situation. They reiterated commitment to ensure a safe and secure environment for the residents through proactive, visible and people-centric policing.
NHAI toll plaza collection fraud: Enforcement Directorate raids businessmans house, office in Jammu
Jammu, Sep 2: Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday raided the residence and office of a prominent businessman in Jammu as part of searches conducted at around 14 locations across the country under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), in connection with an alleged toll collection fraud at National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plazas. Besides Jammu, simultaneous searches were conducted at different locations in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and West Bengal. ED action, reportedly, was in cognizance of two FIRs registered with Police alleging use of unauthorised software applications for toll receipts generation and diverting collected money outside the official accounting mechanism. Though till late evening, ED did not issue any official statement on this account yet sources mentioned that as part of countrywide raids, ED sleuths, joined by central forces, searched the businessmans residence located at Green Belt, Gandhi Nagar and his office premises at Trikuta Nagar on Wednesday September 2, 2026), morning. During the raids, which began at around 9 am or so, the entry and exit points to both the places remained sealed. The ED officials analysed all available records with an objective of recovering digital and documentary evidence to trace the proceeds of crime and identify all beneficiaries. Reports suggested that the forensic examination and the NHAI records corroborated use of such unauthorised software. Sources pointed out that the ED officials were exhaustively analysing documentary, digital evidence and complex web of financial flows across several states, to reach to the bottom of the fraud. Legal proceedings by the ED and NHAI to follow with the progress in investigation to unravel this fraudulent scheme of operations, sources pointed out.
NC leaders gherao BJP office in Jammu, demand immediate statehood restoration
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference on Wednesday strongly protested and gheraoed the BJP headquarters at Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, demanding the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The protesters were led by Rattan Lal Gupta, provincial President J&K National Conference Jammu. Addressing the protesters, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra former minister and additional general secretary said that the restoration of statehood was the democratic and constitutional right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He reminded the BJP-led central government of the commitments repeatedly made by the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, both inside and outside Parliament, regarding restoration of statehood. Sadhotra said, The people of J&K have been waiting for the fulfilment of this solemn commitment. The Centre must not further delay the restoration of Statehood and should immediately bring the necessary legislation before Parliament. He further said that the Supreme Court also directed the union government to take steps towards restoration of statehood, and therefore there was no justification for keeping the people of Jammu and Kashmir deprived of their full State status. Addressing the protesters, Rattan Lal Gupta said that the main objective of gherao BJP headquarter was to send a clear message to the party (BJP) that the people of Jammu and Kashmir would continue to raise their voice democratically until full statehood was restored. Gupta said that the Centre must respect the decisive mandate given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and the Omar Abdullah-led Government. The popular mandate must be honoured in the true spirit of democracy and federalism. He asserted that statehood was essential for effective governance, accountability, inclusive development and protection of the democratic aspirations of the people of J&K. The National Conference would continue its peaceful democratic struggle until the legitimate demand for restoration of statehood was fulfilled, Gupta said. Among others who participated in protest included Sheikh Bashir Ahmad provincial secretary Jammu, Babu Rampal former minister and central zone president , Bimla Luthra former MLA, Deepinder Kour former MLC, Vijay Lochan chairman SC Cell, Abdul Gahi Teli chairman OBC Cell, Tejinder Singh provincial president Jammu YNC, Harshvardhan Singh president NCSU, Pardeep Bali, Ayub Malik provincial secretaries Jammu, Ankush Abrol joint secretary Jammu province, Laxmi Datta senior leader besides others.
Agriculture sector provides 70% of livelihoods, contributes 18% to J&K GDP: Government
Srinagar, Sep 2:Agriculture and allied activities provide around 70 per cent of livelihoods in Jammu and Kashmir and contribute about 18 per cent to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), the official figures have revealed. As per the government statistics highlighting the agriculture sectors progress between 2019-20 and 2025-26, the government has listed a series of achievements in the agriculture and allied sectors, including a more than two-fold increase in cold storage capacity, expansion of crop insurance, growth in milk and fish production and increased horticulture exports. As per the figures, cold storage capacity in J&K increased from 1.39 lakh metric tonnes to 2.97 lakh MT from 2019-20 to 2025-26. Under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, Rs 4,383.61 crore has been disbursed to 9,16,587 lakh farmers, the document states. The government figures presented before the recently convened meeting with Niti Aayog members, the government said two Horticulture Centres of excellence and one Agriculture Centre of Excellence have been established, while 13 others are under execution. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has also been extended to all 20 districts, the official document reads. The government claimed that the Kisan Credit Card scheme has 11.44 lakh active cards, with Rs 10,964 crore in loans sanctioned. Milk processing capacity increased seven-fold, from 35,000 litres to 2.50 lakh litres per day, while fish production rose by 40 per cent from 21,000 MT to 31,700 MT, the official document reads. As per the official statistics, seven agricultural products have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, with 20 more products under process. The National Agriculture Market has linked 17 mandis and registered 2,750 traders since 2019, the official document reads. The government claimed that Horticulture exports also increased from 11.87 lakh MT in 2020-21 to 13.86 lakh MT in 2025-26. In the meeting, the government also highlighted progress under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), including the establishment of 1.46 lakh units and generation of 4 crore person-days of employment. Under area expansion initiatives, 12,764 hectares have been brought under crops including Mushqbudji rice, red rice, chilli, hill garlic and vegetables, the official document reads. The government informed the Niti Aayog team that 2.88 lakh farmers have been skilled through the DAKSH KISAN initiative. The document reads that mushroom production increased from 2,100 MT in 2021-22 to 3,765 MT, while honey production rose from 2,200 MT to 3,900 MT. The seed replacement rate has increased from 12 per cent to 20 per cent, while 1,150 saffron and 890 other nurseries have been registered. As per the official statistics, a total of 1,807 KissanKhidmatGhars have been established, with 9.41 lakh farmers registered and 5.2 lakh farms geo-tagged and on boarded. The HADP progress also includes the establishment of 481 Hi-Tech Poly Greenhouses covering 2.26 lakh square metres and 966 low-cost poly greenhouses covering 2.18 lakh square metres. As per the official data, under the Yellow Revolution, the area under oilseed cultivation has expanded from 1.40 lakh hectares. The document also outlines the Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Project (JK-CIP), a $217 million (approximately Rs 1,800 crore) project focused on improving the climate and market ecosystem across 90 blocks. The project targets marginal communities and women and is expected to benefit around three lakh households, or approximately 15 lakh people. Its components include climate-smart and market-led production, development support for the agri-business ecosystem, and support to vulnerable communities and project management, the document reads. The expected outcomes after seven years include scaling up collectivisation, strengthening and establishing Farmer Producer Organisations, supporting business-led enterprises, market support and brand development, assistance to startups and benefits to three lakh households. The government claimed that under JK-CIP, 65,123 farmers have been registered and 73,472 applications have been received so far. Of these, 18,046 applications are under process, while 48,348 have been approved. A total of 9,131 units have been established, the document reads. The document also mentioned the proposed introduction of a restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) for fruit crops, including apple, saffron, litchi and mango. The fresh tendering process for the scheme will be initiated after issuance of the revised RWBCIS operational guidelines by the Government of India, the document reads.
Devyani Rana announces Rs 1 Cr for playground development across all Nagrota panchayats
In a significant step towards strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure and empowering the youth, MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana has announced a total allocation of Rs 1 Cr for the development and upgradation of playgrounds across all panchayats of Nagrota constituency. Rs 1 Cr will be distributed equally among all panchayats, reflecting a commitment to balanced and equitable development and ensuring that every panchayat has the opportunity to create better sporting facilities for its children and youth. A stronger sporting culture, empowered youth and a Nasha Mukt J&K are essential to building a healthier, more confident and prosperous future, MLA Nagrota said. The initiative, as per a press statement, is envisioned not merely as an investment in playgrounds, but as an investment in the future of the young generation. By creating accessible spaces for sports and physical activity, the effort seeks to encourage young people to pursue athletics and other sporting disciplines, nurture emerging talent and provide aspiring athletes with a stronger foundation at the grassroots level. Linking the initiative to the larger national vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat and a Nasha Mukt J&K, Devyani Rana emphasised that sports can play a vital role in giving young people a positive direction, strengthening discipline and building confidence, purpose and a sense of community. Our responsibility is not only to build infrastructure, but to build opportunities for our youth. A playground can become the first step towards a sporting career, a healthier life and a stronger society. Through this initiative, we want every panchayat of Nagrota Constituency to have the opportunity to nurture its young talent and aspiring athletes, Devyani Rana said. She further said that the fight against drug abuse must be complemented by positive alternatives and meaningful opportunities for young people. The vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat and a Nasha Mukt J&K must begin at the grassroots. Our young people need opportunities to dream, compete and excel. We want to channel their energy towards sports, education and nation-building, rather than allowing it to be consumed by drugs and other destructive influences, she said. The development of playgrounds will also help create a stronger ecosystem for grassroots athletes, enabling young sportspersons to train closer to home and encouraging greater participation in athletics, cricket, football and other sporting disciplines. MLA Nagrotas initiative represents a broader commitment to youth empowerment, grassroots sports, healthy communities and a drug-free society, while laying the foundation for the emergence of the next generation of athletes from Nagrota constituency, the statement mentioned.
Protesting MBBS, BDS interns hold candlelight march in Doda
MBBS and BDS interns of the Associated Government Medical College (AGMC) and Hospital Doda held a candlelight march in Doda town, intensifying their protest over the long-pending demand for enhancement of their monthly stipend. Carrying candles and raising slogans, the protesting interns highlighted what they described as the inadequate stipend being paid to them during their compulsory internship. The interns said they were presently receiving Rs 12,300 per month, which they considered insufficient in view of their clinical responsibilities, working hours and the expenses associated with professional training. The interns said the internship was a crucial component of medical education, during which they were required to perform a range of duties in hospital departments and provide services under the supervision of senior doctors. They maintained that the stipend should reasonably reflect the workload and responsibilities entrusted to interns. The candlelight march was part of a series of protests organised by MBBS and BDS interns to press the authorities for an early resolution of the issue. Earlier, the interns had also taken out a protest rally through Doda town, drawing public and administrative attention to their demand. The protesters urged the UT administration and the Health and Medical Education Department to review the existing stipend structure and announce a substantial hike at the earliest. They also called for parity with interns in other government medical institutions, stating that the disparity in stipends needs to be addressed. The interns said they repeatedly raised the matter with the concerned authorities, but the issue was yet to be resolved. They appealed to the administration to initiate meaningful dialogue with their representatives and work out a solution acceptable to all stakeholders. The protesting interns said they would continue to pursue the matter through peaceful and democratic means until concrete action is taken on their long-standing demand. They expressed hope that the authorities would take the issue seriously and announce a favourable decision without further delay.
Mehbooba Mufti joins protesting medical interns at SKIMS Bemina
Srinagar, Sep 2: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (JKPDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday joined the protesting medical interns at SKIMS Bemina and extended support to their demand for an increase in stipend to Rs 30,000. Mufti was accompanied by senior party leaders Advocate Abdul Haq Khan, Dr Mehboob Beg, Peerzada Mansoor Hussain Soharwardy and Yasir Reshi. Expressing solidarity with the interns, Mufti said it was deeply painful to see young doctors, who work exhausting shifts of up to 36 hours, including nights, taking to the streets to demand what she described as a basic and legitimate entitlement. These young doctors are the backbone of our healthcare system. Their dedication and sacrifice cannot be met with neglect, she said. Mufti said a government that expected medical interns to serve tirelessly must also uphold their dignity and ensure fair compensation. She appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to meet the protesting interns at the earliest and resolve their demands within a week. The JKPDP president said the interns contribution to the healthcare system should be recognised and their demand for a stipend hike addressed without further delay.
Intern doctors protest over stipend hike continues
Intern doctors of Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri and other medical colleges across Jammu on Wednesday continued their indefinite strike, demanding an increase in their monthly stipend from the existing Rs 12,500 to Rs 30,000. The protesting doctors held a peaceful dharna outside GMC Rajouri, urging the government to revise their stipend, saying interns performed duties under challenging conditions in hospitals but were being paid a meagre amount. The agitation has been continuing for the past three days, with intern doctors from various medical colleges pressing the government to implement a stipend of Rs 30,000, which they said was in accordance with prevailing norms. The strike has also affected the functioning of some healthcare institutions as doctors have abstained from duties in certain cases. As part of efforts to intensify the agitation, intern doctors at GMC Rajouri took out a peaceful candlelight protest march on Tuesday evening. The protesters raised slogans in support of their demand and urged the government to address the issue at the earliest. On Wednesday, MLA Rajouri Iftkhar Ahmed also visited the protest site and met the doctors assuring them of taking up their demand and issues before the government for necessary redressal.
To change future of J&K, we are paying special attention to education, health: CM Omar
Srinagar, Sep 2: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today handed over appointment orders to newly appointed Medical Officers of the Department of Health & Medical Education at a ceremony held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here. Personally handing over the appointment orders to the newly recruited Medical Officers appointed across Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister congratulated them on joining the J&K Government service and urged them to regard their appointment as the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to serving the people. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the appointment marked the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance and sacrifice by the appointees and their families. Today, a new chapter of your lives is about to begin. What you will write in this chapter and what you will leave for others to read is up to you, he said, while acknowledging the contribution and sacrifices of the parents and families who supported the young doctors throughout their journey. Recalling the rigorous journey from admission to medical college and completion of medical education, training, internship and recruitment, the Chief Minister said the newly appointed Medical Officers had earned their place through sustained effort. He, however, emphasised that joining government service brought with it a much greater responsibility, particularly in the health sector, where people approach doctors at some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments of their lives. People have high expectations from you. In the most difficult of times, when people go in search of someone, they go in search of a doctor. Some people will reach you when they have given up all their hopes, and they will see the last ray of hope in you, he said. Urging the doctors to serve wherever they are posted, particularly in remote and underserved areas, the Chief Minister said that strengthening healthcare delivery at the grassroots was essential to reducing the burden on hospitals in Jammu and Srinagar. He said that people should not have to travel from sub-district and district hospitals to the major cities for routine medical procedures and treatment. Normal deliveries, gallbladder and appendicitis surgeriesthese should be available at the sub-district level, and at least at the district level where they cannot be provided at the sub-district level. But often we see patients being referred directly to Srinagar or Jammu, he said. The Chief Minister said the Government expected newly appointed doctors to help change this situation by providing quality and accessible healthcare closer to where people live. At the same time, he acknowledged that doctors posted in remote areas would have legitimate expectations from the Government regarding infrastructure, connectivity and better working conditions. You will expect us to provide you with proper infrastructure so that you can carry out your duties properly. You will expect us to provide you with proper connectivity in the areas where we post you, he said, assuring that the Government would continue working to improve service conditions and healthcare infrastructure. The Chief Minister also shared an anecdote from his earlier interaction with newly appointed doctors to underline the need for a change in the mindset towards postings in remote areas, saying that even postings in relatively accessible places were sometimes viewed as difficult. We have to change the future of Jammu and Kashmir. To change the future, we are paying special attention to two thingseducation and health, Omar Abdullah said. He described education and health as the foundation for Jammu and Kashmirs progress, saying that development in other sectors would not yield its full potential unless the people were educated and healthy. The Chief Minister said that this was the reason he attached particular importance to programmes of the Education and Health departments. Highlighting the Governments efforts to make medical education more accessible, Omar Abdullah said that J&K continues to subsidise medical education substantially so that students are able to pursue medical studies at comparatively affordable costs. He pointed out that medical education in government medical colleges in J&K remains significantly cheaper than in several other states, despite the high cost involved in training a doctor. We happily accept this expense because we want more doctors to be made, he said, adding that the Government had also taken steps to increase the intake capacity of medical colleges in J&K in coordination with the Centre. The Chief Minister said that increasing the number of medical seats would create a larger pool of trained doctors who could eventually enter public service and contribute to healthcare delivery across J&K. Assuring the newly appointed Medical Officers of continued Government support, he said: We will improve your service conditions so that you can carry out your work without fear. We will also improve your infrastructure. And in medical colleges, wherever there is a shortage, we will also improve it. Calling upon the doctors to make the most of their long careers in public service, the Chief Minister expressed hope that they would dedicate the coming decades to serving the people and contributing to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. You have entered the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. Please do your work with that spiritwith the hope that people see you in these positions, and with the hope that your parents and family, who helped you reach here by making sacrifices and supporting you, can be proud of you, he said. Congratulating the newly appointed Medical Officers once again, Omar Abdullah wished them a successful and fulfilling career in public service and urged them to discharge their responsibilities with dedication and compassion. Minister for Health & Medical Education Sakina Itoo, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary, Health & Medical Education, M. Raju, Mission Director, National Health Mission J&K, Akriti Sagar, faculty members of Health Services Kashmir, newly appointed Medical Officers and their proud parents were present on the occasion.
Chatroo minor rape-death case:Crime Branch raids 2 accuseds residences
In a significant development in the Chatroo minor rape-and-death case, the Crime Branch on Wednesday morning conducted searches at the residences of two accused persons, identified as Tariq Hussain and Khalid Hussain, in the Gurinal area of Chatroo in Kishtwar district, as part of its ongoing investigation, officials said. The searches were carried out after the case was formally transferred to the Crime Branch by the Jammu and Kashmir administration following sustained protests and demands from residents and various groups for an impartial and comprehensive investigation. Officials familiar with the development said that the searches were aimed at locating and examining material and documentary evidence that could assist investigators in reconstructing the sequence of events and establishing the alleged role of the accused and other persons connected with the case. The Crime Branch is also examining evidence collected during the earlier investigation. The case relates to the death of a minor girl in the Chatroo area, which had triggered widespread outrage and protests across the region. FIR number 34/2026 was initially registered at Police Station Chatroo, and the investigation was subsequently expanded with provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws invoked during the course of the probe. The case had witnessed a series of protests, shutdowns, candle marches and sit-in demonstrations in Chatroo, with protesters demanding that the investigation be transferred to an independent agency and that every person allegedly involved be brought to justice. During the earlier investigation, seven persons were arrested in connection with the case, including the alleged prime accused and others whose suspected roles came under scrutiny. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was also constituted by the police to investigate the matter before the government decided to hand over the case to the Crime Branch amid continued public demands for a broader and independent probe. Following the transfer, the Crime Branch formally began its investigation and has since been examining the circumstances leading to the minor girl's death, the evidence collected so far and the alleged involvement of different individuals. The latest searches at the residences of Tariq Hussain and Khalid Hussain are being viewed as part of the agency's efforts to strengthen the evidence in the case. Investigators are also likely to question persons associated with the case and conduct further searches, if required, as the investigation progresses. The incident has continued to evoke strong public sentiment in Chatroo and adjoining areas, with residents demanding a fair and time-bound investigation and stringent legal action against anyone found responsible.
16th Aero India to be held in Bengaluru from February 8-12, 2027
Aero India, Asias largest air show and one of the worlds premier aerospace and defence exhibitions, is all set to return with its 16th edition at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru, Karnataka from February 8 to 12, 2027. Organised by the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, the event will bring together leading global aerospace and defence companies, policymakers, technology experts, innovators, industry stakeholders and defence forces personnel on a common platform. Aero India has emerged as a flagship international event showcasing the nations growing capabilities in aerospace, defence manufacturing, emerging technologies and innovation. It provides a dynamic platform for business engagement, technology exchange, international cooperation and strategic dialogue, while highlighting Indias expanding defence industrial ecosystem and its growing role in the global aerospace and defence sector. The five-day event will feature a comprehensive exhibition and a range of business and strategic engagements, providing opportunities for industry-to-industry interactions, government-to-industry engagements, technology demonstrations and collaborations. It will also feature spectacular aerial displays by the Indian Air Force and participating international flying teams, offering visitors an opportunity to witness advanced aviation capabilities in action. A dedicated web-based portal has been developed for Aero India 2027 to facilitate seamless participation and provide comprehensive services for exhibitors as well as visitors. Online registration and booking of exhibition space will be facilitated through www.aeroindia.gov.in, with exhibitor registrations scheduled to commence from September 3, 2026. Aero India 2027 is expected to provide a significant impetus to Indias vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and its emergence as a trusted partner in the global defence and aerospace supply chain. The event will facilitate greater participation of Indian defence industries, including MSMEs and start-ups, while creating avenues for partnerships, investments, exports and technology collaboration.
Something is brewing at J&K Bank. A trial balloon has been floated that the J&K Bank should grow its rest-of-India (ROI) business by recruiting there. Unidentified financial experts, talking to unnamed reporters of a prominent Jammu-based English daily, have advocated more lending outside the local economy. The ROI portfolio, it is contended, is no longer just a growth target but an existential necessity for the Banks long-term financial viability. Were it not so flawed in economic and financial reasoning, this could be laughed off as a bad joke. The amateurish narrative, and the agenda behind it, needs to be called out. The outward-looking strategy is flawed financially, commercially, economically and developmentally. It is a bad bargain for the Bank, the people and the government of J&K. The inward-looking policy from 2006 rested on a self-evident opportunity: J&K, with 0.70 per cent of national GDP, received only 0.30 per cent of national credit. With about one per cent of the population, its share of the national personal-loan stock was 0.27 per cent. The state was credit-starved despite SBI, PNB and the other big daddies of Indian banking. That strategy set out in the 2006-07 Annual Report doubled credit inflow even as the share in national output rose only marginally. As on March 2026, J&K accounts for 0.79 per cent of national output and absorbs 0.62 per cent of overall credit. The region remains under-banked on the asset side relative to output, and more so relative to its own deposits. The Bank mobilises about Rs 1,45,000 crore i.e. 80 per cent of its deposits locally yet ploughs back only Rs 80,000 crore into the local economy. By contrast, it raises about Rs 30,000 crore in ROI and has deployed Rs 50,000 crore in credit as of June 2026: a credit-deposit ratio of nearly 170 per cent, almost three times the local ratio. The proposed strategy would widen this disparity through deposit arbitrage. Local savings are five times those raised in ROI, and cheaper. With CASA of 47 per cent the highest in India, better than SBI and HDFC the cost of deposits in J&K is around 4.5 per cent. In ROI, CASA of just 12 per cent lifts the cost to around 6.5 per cent: a gap of 200 basis points. The plain fact is that if the balance sheet of the bank is split into local and ROI books, it will not be profitable for J&K Bank to lend outside without access to the low-cost deposits of the state. What makes the rest of India look profitable is an internal transfer-price mechanism that charges the ROI loan book the average cost of funds anchored in low-cost home deposits and not the higher cost of contracting deposits outside. This under-pricing socialises a home surplus into a common pool and makes outside lending look better than it is. It also hides the risk of a 170 per cent CD ratio: a liquidity threat and an asset-liability mismatch. The Bank should de-risk by cutting ROI exposure. It cannot raise low-cost deposits outside. Facing growing competition at home, the Bank must protect the liability franchise given it by the government and people of J&K and not explore the national field as some self-proclaimed experts advise. If this is altered -- government accounts moving, households shifting to other banks, or CASA migrating to term money -- the pool shrinks, the internal subsidy disappears, and the outside book cannot fund itself at anything like todays cost. Asset-side diversification is liability-side concentration. The ROI loan book looks worse once asset pricing, asset quality and the regulatory cost of capital are counted. Reported NPAs of around Rs 700 crore are understated by restructurings, settlements and write-offs. Off the balance sheet, impaired assets in Delhi and Mumbai must be around Rs 2,000 crore each. Add unapplied interest and the stock of impaired ROI assets be close to half the loan book of ROI. The comparable figure for J&K, on a bigger asset base, is far less. Localised, restructured and rehabilitated books in the local economy perform better than national averages, with slippage on specific state-rehabilitated portfolios held under 1 per cent. What the management and its experts call concentration risk; the stock market treats as the Banks main asset: the home franchise. Analysts and rating agencies cite the regional monopoly as the reason to own the stock. Long-term equity notes describe a safe regional monopoly, not a pan-India lender. Diluting that monopoly to chase ROI volume would strip away what the market still values without first curing the discount that comes from a thin float. The Bank leadership with little feel for the regional economy, may not recognise that J&K Bank is more integral to the J&K economy than even the government. The government is the principal pump-primer; the supply side is driven by the Bank. Set against this macroeconomics, the outward strategy makes even less commercial sense. When J&K Bank lends local deposits inside J&K, the money is spent locally. Wages, purchases and fresh deposits stay in the region. That is the multiplier. When it lends those same deposits in the rest of India, the income is earned elsewhere. J&K only exports its savings. Its creditdeposit ratio falls. That is leakage. A loan to a Pulwama horticulturist does much more for J&K than a housing loan in Pune. Local lending is a development instrument; out-of-region lending is a portfolio choice. Together they can form a virtuous cycle of credit, income and savings. When a hinterland instead exports scarce capital and imports labour outside recruitment is the equivalent despite a domestic labour surplus, it invites distortion. The real risk is not the erosion faceless experts predict if the Bank stays home focused. It is a small, under-served economy shipping its savings to finance the rest of India. Finally, let it be recognised that the people of J&K have invested a lot of emotional equity into the bank which far outweighs the financial equity invested by the Dogra Maharaja and the state government over time. It has been the only profitable and well-functioning institution of the state and it carries an aspirational model. To grow with stability, the Bank must return its focus to J&K and consolidate a slipping home position. Its share of local lending is already falling while rivals compete for the one asset that distinguishes it: low-cost deposits. The next battle will not be who books another corporate loan in the rest of India; it will be who peels CASA and government floats away from J&K Bank. An ROI-first strategy accelerates that loss. It exports the cheap surplus instead of defending the home book, trains the organisation to grow where the franchise is weak, and leaves the Bank thinner on the liabilities that fund its margin. That is not a hedge. It is a smaller franchise at home and a dearer, less stable book abroad and it is best avoided. Tail piece: The consequences of this adventurous strategy are already clear. The banks topline growth has been nearly stagnant for two years and turned negative in the June quarter. Nothing shows the failure of the outbound strategy more clearly than this: despite 60 per cent YoY growth in RoI advances and deposits, earnings growth stagnated despite a change in the accounting practice vis-a-vis PLCs to add Rs 50 odd crores to the net profit. Markets recognised this is not good banking and gave the results a thumbs down. On results day the stock fell almost Rs 30 in half an hour, and the slide has continued since. (The author is a former Chairman of J&K Bank.)
Suzuki Motorcycle India hosts Burgman hangout parade in Jammu
Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, hosted the Burgman Hangout Parade in Jammu, bringing together Burgman and Avenis riders for a community ride through the city. The Jammu edition followed earlier events in Hyderabad and Pune and was aimed at bringing Suzuki scooter owners together while providing an opportunity to interact with fellow riders and showcase the Burgmans urban styling. The convoy began at Hari Niwas Palace and passed through prominent city routes before concluding at Wave Mall. The ride attracted attention from commuters and visitors along the way, while participants interacted with fellow riders, captured photographs and shared their riding experiences. Speaking about the initiative, Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said the event was intended to strengthen the companys connection with its riding community. The Burgman Hangout Parade is about bringing our riders together and celebrating the unique bond they share with the brand. Our customers are the strongest advocates of the Burgman experience, and this initiative provides a platform for them to connect, share their ownership journeys, and showcase the style, comfort, and performance that make Burgman stand out, he said. At the concluding venue, SMIPL organised a series of engagement activities for riders and visitors. These included displays of the new Burgman Street and Avenis Special Edition scooters, a Suzuki merchandise zone, customer interaction activities and photo opportunities. The event also featured a Post & Win social media contest, encouraging participants to share their experiences from the ride online. The company said the Jammu edition was part of its efforts to expand the Burgman community experience to more cities and strengthen engagement with Suzuki scooter owners.
South Asias political landscape presents one of the most compelling narratives in contemporary democratic governance. Historically, the subcontinent stood at the forefront of female executive leadership, producing Sri Lankas Sirimavo Bandaranaikethe worlds first female prime minister in 1960 alongside iconic heads of government including Indira Gandhi, Benazir Bhutto, Sheikh Hasina, and Khaleda Zia. Today, as regional democracies actively strive toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG-5) for gender equality, a profound democratic transition is unfolding from the grassroots upward. This evolving landscape demonstrates that women are decisively moving beyond passive voting toward becoming central architects of governance, even as key institutional and socio-cultural barriers remain to be addressed. The foundation of this democratic expansion was laid through Indias landmark 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1993, which mandated a minimum 33.3% reservation for women across rural Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies. Over the subsequent decades, more than twenty Indian states including Bihar, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal progressively elevated this threshold to a 50% reservation. Today, nearly 1.4 million women hold elected office in Panchayats across India. Ground-breaking empirical research by Nobel laureate Esther Duflo and Raghabendra Chattopadhyay confirms that female local leaders systematically steer public spending toward vital community priorities, particularly clean drinking water, sanitation, fuel access, and rural road connectivity. Moreover, continuous exposure to female leadership has actively dismantled entrenched societal stereotypes, while significantly elevating the educational and professional aspirations of adolescent girls in rural communities. At the ballot box, female engagement has shattered historic records. In Indias 2024 general elections, the traditional gender turnout gap was inverted, with female voter turnout reaching an unprecedented 65.8%, marginally surpassing male turnout at 65.6%. In states such as West Bengal, female turnout reached 83.33%. Women have emerged as an autonomous, decisive voting constituency, prompting state governments to introduce programmatic welfare initiatives, including direct benefit transfers, educational stipends, and subsidized cooking gas. Complementing this electoral mobilization, Indias enactment of the historic Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Womens Reservation Act) mandating 33% representation in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembliesmarks a transformative institutional step toward scaling grassroots democratic representation into national parliamentary chambers. Across the wider South Asian neighbourhood, positive milestones coexist with valuable institutional lessons. Nepal leads the region in parliamentary representation, with women holding 34.9% of seats in its Lower House and 38.6% in its Upper House due to progressive constitutional mandates. This positions Nepal as the only country in the region currently crossing Drude Dahlerups classic 30% critical mass threshold - the proportion theorised as necessary for women legislators to move past tokenism and exert collective policy influence. Crucially, empirical research by PRS Legislative Research robustly refutes the traditional myth regarding female winnability. In contested general elections, female candidates achieve win rates equivalent to or exceeding those of their male counterparts, while demonstrating identical diligence in parliamentary attendance and debate. Nevertheless, translating descriptive presence into substantive policy influence presents distinct operational hurdles. At the local level, newly elected representatives frequently encounter administrative and resource deficits. A large number of female Panchayat members receive limited formal training in budgetary allocation and bureaucratic procedures, while roughly half of rural administrative units lack adequate office facilities and digital connectivity. In the absence of institutional capacity-building, female leaders can face administrative sidelining or the challenge of proxy governance, wherein male relatives attempt to mediate council decisions. Similarly, in systems relying on indirect party-list quotas, such as in Bangladesh & Pakistan, female legislators often lack independent popular constituencies, leaving their legislative autonomy constrained by party hierarchies. Furthermore, the rising financial demands of electoral campaigning and the emergence of Violence Against Women in Politics (VAWP) remain serious deterrents. UN Women reports that 81.8% of surveyed female parliamentarians in the Asia-Pacific region experienced psychological harassment, while 44.4% faced explicit physical threats. In the digital sphere, cyber-VAWPranging from coordinated smear campaigns to weaponized artificial intelligence deepfakes poses an escalating threat to female public figures. Bridging the gap between electoral participation and substantive empowerment requires concerted structural support. Strengthening internal democracy and campaign financing within political parties, enforcing strict legal protections against physical and digital harassment, and institutionalising continuous governance academies for local representatives are essential steps forward. By reinforcing these institutional foundations, South Asia can harness its surging female electorate to foster enduring democratic leadership and fully achieve the promise of SDG-5. These are excerpts from a paper presented on 18 August 2026 at a National Conference on Gender Equality in the 21st Century: Perspectives and Pathways to SDG-5 held at Govt. Degree College for Women, M.A. Road Srinagar.
LIC launches 2 new plans on 70th anniversary
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has introduced two new insurance plansLICs Bima Platinum (Plan 770) and LICs Jeevan Raksha (Plan 894)to mark its 70th anniversary. LIC Chairman and Managing Director R. Doraiswamy launched the two plans on Tuesday, with the new products combining savings and protection features and pure risk cover respectively. LICs Bima Platinum (Plan 770; UIN: 512N397V01) is a non-participating, non-linked individual plan offering savings and life protection. It is a limited-premium plan that provides guaranteed additions of Rs 70 for every Rs 1,000 of annual premium paid during the premium-paying term. An additional feature of the plan is a Booster Income Benefit equivalent to 70 per cent of the Basic Sum Assured, payable if the policyholder survives until the end of the fifth year after completion of the premium-paying term. The plan also provides a Regular Income Benefit equivalent to 10 per cent of the Basic Sum Assured at the end of each year during the payout period, which is the policy term minus the premium-paying term. The minimum Basic Sum Assured under Bima Platinum is Rs 3 lakh, with no fixed upper limit, subject to acceptance under LICs Board-approved underwriting policy. The Basic Sum Assured is available in multiples of Rs 10,000. Policyholders can choose premium-paying terms of seven, 10, 12, 15 or 18 years. The minimum age at entry is 30 completed days, while the maximum entry age varies according to the premium-paying term. The plan also offers rebates for existing LIC policyholders and nominees or beneficiaries of deceased policyholders, along with rider options to enhance coverage. LICs Jeevan Raksha (Plan 894; UIN: 512N368V01) is a non-participating, non-linked pure risk plan designed to provide financial protection to the family of the insured in the event of death during the policy term. The benefits payable on death are guaranteed and fixed and are not linked to the actual experience of the Corporation. The plan does not carry bonuses, discretionary benefits or any share in surplus. Jeevan Raksha is available to individuals aged between 18 and 45 years at entry. The minimum and maximum age at maturity are 33 and 60 years respectively. The plan offers a Basic Sum Assured ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 24 lakh, subject to LICs underwriting policy. The Sum Assured is available in multiples of Rs 50,000 between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7 lakh and in multiples of Rs 1 lakh above Rs 7 lakh.
If in some health indicators J&K outperforms national averages, according to the figures presented by NITI Aayog, it needs to be acknowledged. J&Ks health sector is very wide and deep when it comes to its spread in the form of hospitals and health centres across its territorial limits, and also the number of people that benefit from it on a daily basis. Its shortcomings and inadequacies aside, the infrastructure that is in place and the human resource that is employed by the government are impressive. But unfortunately there are certain avoidable things that dont allow us to benefit from such an expansive facility optimally. If the resources, material and human, are optimised, the same facilities can perform better than what they do right now. This is where a structured thinking is needed, and for that all the stakeholders need to walk past their comfort zones. Elsewhere in the world we have analysts and design thinkers employed to evaluate systems, optimise its use and build the capacities of those who run these systems. Here we may have some elements that resemble things like thinking, evaluation and capacity building; but it is not the same as is found in the developed world. One of the ways to think creatively about our health systems and how they can be optimised is to take some steps back and look at the entire picture from a distance. The problem with the current set of leaders who manage these system is that they are a part of the daily grind. Their energies are drained into daily management of systems, and every minute there stress builds on their minds. In such a situation when some criticism is made they take it as blame and immediately start defending themselves, underlining the challenges they face on daily basis. This must change. The atmosphere where evaluation is done should neither be stressed nor accusatory. Second, medicine as a profession is a different thing than healthcare as a public facility. In the ecosystem of creative thinking it is not just medical professionals but a vast array of stakeholders outside the medical fraternity who need to be involved. Sometimes a simple idea can change the whole thing. And that idea can come from a patient, totally illiterate, almost no exposure, and belonging to a far-flung area. On that indicator our healthcare system is definitely very poor.
CAIT Kashmir welcomes J&K Bank clarifications, seeks time-bound relief for traders
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Kashmir Chapter, has welcomed the clarifications provided by J&K Bank Managing Director and CEO Amitava Chatterjee on issues concerning the Bank and the business community, while calling for time-bound implementation of measures aimed at supporting stressed traders and businesses. A statement issued here stated that CAIT Kashmir particularly welcomes the clarification that the Banks headquarters will continue to remain in Srinagar and that J&K Bank will retain its J&K-centric character. The traders body also welcomed the proposed recruitment of around 1,400 local youth and the assurance that expansion of lending operations outside Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh would not come at the cost of the Banks traditional home markets. CAIT Kashmir also appreciated the Banks initiative to prepare a One-Time Settlement (OTS) framework for stressed borrowers. It, however, urged the Bank to make the framework more comprehensive, practical and accessible, particularly for small traders, retailers and MSMEs that have faced prolonged disruptions and financial hardship. The organisation further welcomed Chatterjees openness to representation from Kashmir on the Banks Board, saying greater representation would strengthen the Banks engagement with its stakeholders and help ensure that ground-level concerns are reflected in decision-making. CAIT Kashmir said the clarifications were an important step forward but stressed that they must translate into concrete measures, particularly in relation to OTS, restructuring of stressed accounts, revival of viable businesses and strengthening credit support for the retail and trading sectors. Farhan Kitab, President of CAIT Kashmir Chapter, said J&K Bank had historically been closely associated with the economic aspirations of the trading community and expressed hope that the present leadership would further strengthen that relationship through a trader-friendly, transparent and responsive approach. We appreciate the CEO for clearing the air on important issues. What the trading community now looks forward to is not merely assurances, but time-bound implementation and meaningful relief on the ground. A stronger J&K Bank must go hand in hand with a stronger trading community, Kitab said.
Mission YUVA: J&K Bank disburses loans to over 3,100 entrepreneurs
J&K Bank and Mission YUVA on Wednesday marked the conclusion of the Big Week Campaign, with the Bank disbursing loans to more than 3,100 aspiring entrepreneurs during the campaign. The closing ceremony was held at the Banks Corporate Headquarters and co-presided over by J&K Bank MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee and Secretary to Government, Labour & Employment and Revenue Department, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, in the presence of Director Employment and Mission Director, Mission YUVA, Harvinder Singh (IAS). The event was attended by Chief General Manager Ashutosh Sareen, General Managers Sanjay Gupta and Suresh Kumar Chowdhary, Deputy General Managers Rosy Tikoo, Shamim Ahmad and Abdul Majid, besides other senior officers. The Banks divisional heads and all zonal and cluster heads across J&K participated virtually. Thanking the Bank for its role in the initiative, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan said J&K Bank had been an integral partner in Mission YUVA since its conceptualisation. I thank the Banks leadership, particularly MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee, and its entire field-level team for their committed role in advancing this transformative programme, he said. Emphasising the importance of dignified employment, Ranjan said every loan disbursed represented more than a financial transaction, as it helped guide individuals towards entrepreneurship and economic independence. He said Mission YUVA had attracted the attention of key stakeholders in the countrys governance system, with entrepreneurship and self-employment emerging as an important response to the challenge of unemployment. Describing Mission YUVA as a significant initiative, he said the programme had the potential to emerge as a success story and provide a model for other parts of the country. Chatterjee said close coordination between the Government and the Bank had been a key factor behind Mission YUVAs progress. The kind of ownership demonstrated by the J&K Government towards this transformative employment-generation programmethrough comprehensive reviews and sustained follow-upis unprecedented. Mission YUVA is a perfect example of how thorough groundwork can be translated into successful outcomes, he said. Chatterjee, however, stressed that creating enterprises should not be the end objective of the programme and called for continued support to ensure their sustainability and growth. Setting up enterprises alone should not be our objective. Their sustainability and expansionsupported through the second phase of Bank financewill ensure their meaningful contribution to J&Ks GDP. All our operational heads must, therefore, ensure continued handholding and consistent guidance to these young entrepreneurs, he said. Harvinder Singh thanked the Banks leadership and staff for their contribution to the programme. It is with your unwavering support that we have been able to usher in an entrepreneurial revolution across J&K. In just over a year, Mission YUVA has achieved disbursements of around Rs 1,750 crorean accomplishment in itself, he said. Congratulating the Bank team for completing more than 3,100 disbursements during the Big Week Campaign, Singh said the initiative would further strengthen the programmes efforts to promote entrepreneurship across the region. Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries and participants, General Manager (RAM) Sanjay Gupta said Mission YUVA was not merely a government scheme but an initiative being pursued with the objective of generating employment, promoting entrepreneurship and supporting the aspirations of J&Ks youth.
Q: I am 72 years old and generally healthy. Do I still need a flu vaccine? A: Yes. Older adults are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza, even if they are otherwise healthy. An annual flu vaccine is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of severe flu and its complications. Q: When is the best time for my elderly parents to get the flu vaccine? A: September and October are generally good months to get vaccinated before influenza activity increases. If you havent received it by then, vaccination can still be beneficial later in the season. Better is in September and October. Q: My mother says, I took the flu vaccine last year. Why do I need it again? A: Because influenza viruses change over time, and protection from vaccination decreases gradually. The vaccine is updated regularly to match circulating viruses, so annual vaccination is recommended. Q: Can the flu vaccine give my father the flu? A: No. The injectable influenza vaccines used for adults do not cause influenza. Some people may experience mild soreness, tiredness or a low-grade fever for a short time after vaccination. These are usually temporary. Q: My father has diabetes and high blood pressure. Is the flu vaccine safe for him? A: In most cases, yesand these conditions actually make flu prevention more important because influenza can lead to serious complications. Q: My 78-year-old mother forgets where she kept her keys but remembers later. Is this Alzheimers disease? A: Not necessarily. Occasional forgetfulness can happen with normal ageing. Alzheimers disease is more concerning when memory problems become persistent, progressively worsen and begin interfering with everyday lifesuch as managing money, taking medicines, cooking or finding familiar places. Q: My father repeats the same question several times. Should we just say it is normal old age? A: Repeated questions can be a warning sign when they are frequent and represent a change from the persons usual behaviour. Dont dismiss persistent changes in memory or thinking as simply ageing. A medical evaluation can help identify the cause and early diagnosis can help slow the progression of disease. Q: Is there any way to reduce the risk of Alzheimers disease? A: There is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimers, but several habits support brain health: regular physical activity, controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, not smoking, staying socially connected, getting adequate sleep and keeping the mind active. What is good for the heart is often good for the brain. Q: My mother has become withdrawn and stopped meeting friends. Could this affect her memory? A: Social isolation and loneliness can negatively affect mental wellbeing and are associated with cognitive decline. Encourage meaningful social interaction, conversation, hobbies and activities she enjoys. A new or persistent withdrawal should also be discussed with a doctor. Q: My father is becoming forgetful. Is there a test that can tell us if he has Alzheimers? A: There is no single test that confirms Alzheimers disease in every person. Doctors usually assess the persons history, memory and thinking, daily functioning, medications and overall health, and may use cognitive testing and other investigations. Early assessment is important because some causes of memory problems are treatable, and early diagnosis allows families to plan care and support. NOTE: These responses are for general awareness and do not replace professional medical advice. Vaccine choice and timing, particularly for older adults with chronic illnesses, should be discussed with a doctor. Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346 | Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org
Income Tax awareness programme held at IGC Lassipora
The Income Tax Office, Udhampur, in collaboration with the Industrial Association, organised an Income Tax Awareness Programme at the Industrial Growth Centre, Lassipora, to familiarise industrialists, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders with provisions of the New Income Tax Act, 2025 and encourage voluntary tax compliance. Monika Dhami, Principal Commissioner of Income Tax, was the chief guest at the programme. She was accompanied by Dr Ruveda Salam, Joint Commissioner of Income Tax, Srinagar;Sandhya Pratap, Assistant Commissioner, Circle Srinagar; and Vijay Choudhary, Income Tax Officer, Udhampur. Addressing the gathering, Dhami stressed the importance of timely and accurate compliance with income tax laws and highlighted the contribution of taxpayers to the countrys economic development. She urged members of the industrial community to make full use of the facilities and services offered by the Income Tax Department and to seek professional guidance whenever required. The programme witnessed participation from taxpayers and industrial unit holders from the Industrial Growth Centre, Lassipora. More than 100 representatives of various trade and professional bodies attended the programme, including members of the Bar Association, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), and Cold Storage Association, Lassipora. The interaction provided an opportunity for participants to raise issues and seek clarification on tax-related provisions and compliance requirements under the new legislation.
Growing old is a natural part of life. With better healthcare, people are living longer, and that is something to celebrate. But living longer should also mean living healthier, happier and with dignity. The WHO estimates that by 2030, one in six people in the world will be aged 60 or above. Healthy ageing is therefore becoming an increasingly important part of public health. As a B.Sc. Nursing student, I have come to understand that older people need much more than medicines. They need care, respect, companionship and emotional support. After spending their lives raising families and contributing to society, they deserve to feel valued rather than treated as a burden. Ageing is not an illness. It is a natural process that may bring weaker muscles and bones, reduced vision or hearing, and greater vulnerability to illness. With proper healthcare and healthy habits, however, many older people can remain active and independent. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, heart and kidney disease, poor eyesight and bone weakness are common in old age. Some may also develop dementia, affecting memory and thinking. While some conditions cannot be completely cured, early diagnosis, treatment, mental stimulation and family support can greatly improve quality of life. We must also remember the emotional side of ageing. Retirement, loss of a spouse or friends, and living away from children can make older people feel lonely. This is particularly relevant in Kashmir, where many young people leave home for education or work. Sometimes, the simplest thingssitting with an elderly parent, listening to their stories, having a meal together or simply asking how they are feelingcan make a great difference. Good nutrition and regular physical activity are equally important. A balanced diet containing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, dairy products, eggs, fish and adequate protein can support healthy ageing. Calcium and vitamin D are important for bones, while adequate hydration should not be overlooked. Regular walking, stretching, yoga or other suitable exercises can improve strength, balance, sleep and overall wellbeing. Exercise should, however, be tailored to an individuals health and abilities. Falls are another major concern. Weakness, poor vision, dizziness and unsafe surroundings can increase the risk. Simple measures such as good lighting, dry floors, handrails and appropriate footwear can make homes safer. Regular health check-ups are also essential. Blood pressure, blood sugar, vision, hearing, kidney, bone and dental health should be monitored, along with appropriate vaccinations and screening. Families should also help older adults take medicines correctly and should never stop prescribed medicines without medical advice. For me, nursing is not simply about administering medicines. A good nurse listens, comforts, educates and treats every person with dignity. Nurses have an important role in helping families understand healthy ageing and ensuring that older people receive both physical and emotional care, especially in rural and remote areas. Ultimately, healthy ageing is not about adding years to life alone; it is about adding life to those years. Our elderly should never be made to feel like a liability. They have spent much of their lives caring for us. Now, it is our turn to care for themwith patience, love, respect and dignity. Mohammad Arfat Wani is a writer and nursing student from Kuchmulla, Tral
Apples and oranges: Govt rejects 2.6% GDP claim, defends 7.8% growth
The government on Wednesday dismissed a claim that first-quarter economic growth was closer to 2.6 per cent, terming the comparison of the latest GDP estimate with a superseded data series an apples and oranges exercise and asserting the 7.8 per cent expansion is backed by solid output data. The response by Saurabh Garg, Secretary in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), followed remarks by a former finance secretary Subhash Chandra Garg that GDP growth would have been about 2.6 per cent in current prices if last years GDP had not been revised down from roughly Rs 86 lakh crore to Rs 80 lakh crore. The statistics secretary said the argument was flawed because it compared current-price figures rather than constant-price estimates, and - more importantly - used the Rs 86.05 lakh crore estimate from the old 2011-12 base-year series against the latest numbers calculated under the new 2022-23 base year. It is unfortunate that comparison is being made of apples and oranges, he said, pointing to strong volume growth in sectors, including steel, cement and automobiles. He said the Rs 86.05 lakh crore Q1 FY2025-26 GDP estimate cited by critics belonged to the old 2011-12 base-year series and was superseded when the new 2022-23 series was introduced in February 2026. Under the new series, Q1 FY2025-26 current-price GDP was initially estimated at Rs 80.32 lakh crore. It was subsequently revised to Rs 80.44 lakh crore and then to Rs 80.00 lakh crore as updated data, including the new Index of Industrial Production and Producer Price Index, were incorporated. The successive changes, he said, reflected the normal revision cycle and incorporation of additional information, rather than an attempt to reduce the previous years GDP to mechanically lift the latest growth rate. The claim that the numbers have been compressed now relates to a number which has been released in February 2026, but which has not been quoted, he said. He went on to stress that growth comparisons are made using estimates from the same comparable series and at constant prices, which remove the effect of price changes. In a statement, MoSPI said revisions to last years GDP and the divergence between different price measures reflect updated data and estimation techniques rather than an attempt to artificially boost headline growth. The clarification came two days after the government released an updated series of annual and quarterly GDP estimates with 2022-23 as the base year, incorporating a new Producer Price Index (PPI), Banking Services Price Index and additional administrative data. The ministrys detailed questions-and-answers addressed concerns ranging from negative implicit price deflators in manufacturing to the sharp difference between nominal and real growth in mining, as well as the sizeable statistical discrepancy between production- and expenditure-side estimates. Indias economy grew 7.8 per cent in real terms in the first quarter of fiscal 2026-27, according to the revised GDP series. The ministry said a negative implicit GVA deflator for manufacturing should not be interpreted as evidence that factory-gate prices declined. Manufacturing GVA in the June quarter was compiled using a double-deflation method, under which output and intermediate consumption are separately adjusted for price changes before real GVA is derived. When input prices rise faster than output prices, nominal GVA can grow more slowly than real GVA, producing a negative implicit deflator even when both output and input prices are increasing. Manufacturing real GVA grew 9.2 per cent in the quarter compared to nominal growth of 7.7 per cent, resulting in an implicit GVA deflator of minus 1.5 per cent, the ministry said. It cited textiles and cotton ginning, basic metals, and rubber and plastic products among activities where input-price growth exceeded output-price growth. The ministry also pointed to international experience, saying negative or volatile manufacturing deflators can emerge in economies using double deflation during periods of energy and raw-material price shocks. Agriculture presents a different case because quarterly agricultural GVA is first estimated at constant prices using production data, with current-price estimates subsequently derived using the relevant producer-price index. The agriculture, forestry and fishing output PPI rose about 5 per cent in the quarter, resulting in a positive implied inflation rate of 3.9 per cent, the ministry said. It also rejected claims that the Q1 2025-26 current-price GDP estimate was reduced from Rs 86.05 lakh crore to Rs 80 lakh crore to make the latest growth rate appear stronger.
How a culture treats its old is a true indicator of that civilization. The number of elderly people in Kashmir has been continuously rising due to longer life expectancies and better healthcare. Although this is a sign of progress, it also raises new issues that need to be addressed right away. Healthy aging is now a public health concern that calls for concerted efforts by families, medical professionals, communities, and legislators. It is no longer merely a personal obligation. Physical, psychological, and social changes accompany the natural process of aging. An individuals independence and quality of life are frequently impacted by reduced muscle strength, stiff joints, poor balance, deteriorating vision and hearing, cognitive problems, and the existence of chronic illnesses such diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and hypertension. But being older does not always translate into weakness or reliance. Many age-related issues can be postponed or successfully managed with the right preventative measures. Kashmir offers a special setting for aging well. Long winters frequently limit possibilities for outdoor exercise, and older adultsespecially those who live alone or in rural areasmay experience increased social isolation. The risk of impairment is further increased by dietary modifications, decreased mobility, and a lack of knowledge about preventative healthcare. Furthermore, many older people still view pain, weakness, and trouble walking as inevitable aspects of aging, postponing seeking medical attention until problems worsen. Physical activity is one of the most neglected parts of senior health. One of the best and most economical strategies for healthy aging is still regular exercise. Exercises that improve cardiovascular health, preserve muscle mass, lower the risk of falls, and boost mental well-being include walking, light stretching, strength training, balance exercises, and breathing exercises. Independence and quality of life are greatly enhanced by even modest daily activity levels. In order to promote good aging, physiotherapy is essential. It is a crucial part of preventive healthcare rather than only a treatment after surgery or an injury. Physiotherapists assist senior citizens in managing chronic pain, regaining confidence in carrying out daily tasks, maintaining mobility, enhancing balance, and strengthening muscles. Customised exercise regimens also lessen the risk of falls, which continue to be one of the main reasons why older persons become disabled. Mental health is vital. Anxiety, sadness, and cognitive impairment may be exacerbated by retirement, bereavement, loneliness, and decreased social interaction. Families frequently prioritize physical ailments above mental health. Lifelong learning, family connection, meaningful social contacts, and community involvement can all significantly enhance psychological well-being and lessen feelings of loneliness. More focus should be given to nutrition as well. Bone health, muscle strength, and immunity are all supported by an adequate intake of protein, calcium, vitamin D, fruits, vegetables, and water. Frequent blood pressure, diabetes, vision, hearing, osteoporosis, and common cancer tests enable early identification and prompt treatment of illnesses that could otherwise develop silently. It takes more than just individual effort to prepare for an aging population. Access to community-based physical therapy, fall prevention programs, rehabilitation services, and geriatric care must be increased by healthcare systems. Age-friendly public areas should include accessible structures, secure walkways, sufficient seating, and dependable transit. Both urban and rural communities should participate in awareness programs encouraging healthy aging to make preventive healthcare a regular part of daily life. In Kashmir, families continue to be the mainstay of senior care. In addition to having their physical needs met, older individuals should be respected, given emotional support, and given the chance to continue being active members of their families and communities. Their knowledge, expertise, and fortitude are priceless resources that fortify communities for years to come. Adding years to life is only one aspect of healthy aging; another is giving those years more vitality. Kashmir can guarantee that its expanding senior population continues to live with dignity, independence, and purpose by making investments in preventive healthcare, rehabilitation, physical activity, nutrition, mental health, and age-friendly neighborhoods. Our populations aging should not be seen as a problem in and of itself. It is a chance to create a society that celebrates all life stages and is healthier and more empathetic. The choices we make now will affect how well we all mature in the future. Dr Ayesha Bhat is Vice Principal, Shantha College of Physiotherapy
JK Obesity Summit: Problem is bigger than the weight
There are some collaborations that are partnerships on paper. And then some collaborations become meaningful because two institutions bring together their strengths, experience and intent for a cause that matters to people. The JK Obesity Summit, the 2nd Annual International MMFDIACON-2026, was one such occasion. My first and foremost gratitude goes to Prof. (Dr) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/Dean, Government Medical College & Associated Hospitals, Srinagar and Patron of the conference, for her gracious support and encouragement. I am equally grateful to Prof. (Dr) Sandeep Kour Bali, Principal/Dean, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, for extending the warmth and institutional support that made the venue and the event possible. Both leaders brought dignity and encouragement to an initiative that sought to take an important medical conversation beyond the confines of one speciality. But the biggest expression of gratitude must go to the Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar. For CISA, Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing, Moul Mouj Foundation, it is a matter of genuine pride and privilege that the Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar, chose CISA as its partner for this important conference. The collaboration itself reflected what the summit was trying to say: obesity does not belong to one department, one doctor or one discipline. It belongs to all of us. A very special word of appreciation goes to Dr M. Hayat Bhat, HOD, Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar and Organising Chairman, who conceived the theme of obesity for this years conference and gave the academic programme a subject that is increasingly relevant to almost every family and every speciality. My sincere thanks also go to Dr Mir Shahnawaz, Co-Organising Chairman, for his constant support, guidance and encouragement. I am grateful to the entire organising team Dr Moomin Hussain, Dr Rafi Mir, Dr Uzair ul Haq, Dr Muzaffar Amin, Dr Rakshanda, Dr Priksha, Dr Madhumita Singh and Dr Ruchi Agarwal whose work behind the scenes was critical to bringing the programme together. I also wish to place on record my appreciation to Prof. Shabir Ahmad Shah, MS, GDC Srinagar, Mr Bashir Ahmad and the entire faculty, students and staff of Government Dental College, Srinagar, for their cooperation and support. A big thanks to GK Communications for serving as the Media and Outreach Partner for this important event and for helping take its message to a wider audience. And, of course, heartfelt thanks to every speaker, chairperson, researcher, student and delegate who travelled from different medical colleges, hospitals and institutions to be part of the summit. The brochure captured the breadth of the meeting from endocrinology and cardiology to bariatrics, psychiatry, nutrition, physiotherapy and public health because obesity demands precisely this kind of interdisciplinary conversation. But why obesity? Why should an ordinary person care? Because obesity is no longer simply a question of how someone looks. Think about the weighing scale in our homes. For many people, it is almost a judge. We step on it, look down, feel happy or disappointed, and step away. But the number on that scale cannot tell the whole story. Obesity is a chronic disease involving excessive or abnormal accumulation of body fat that can impair health.Globally, the problem has reached extraordinary proportions: WHO estimates that in 2022, more than 1 billion people were living with obesity, including about 890 million adults. Around 16% of adults worldwide were living with obesity. India is experiencing the same transition. NFHS-5 found that among people aged 1549 years, 33.2% of women and 29.8% of men were overweight or obese by the BMI 25 definition. And there is an important catch. You can look normal and still carry unhealthy fat. This is what is often described as normal-weight obesity a person may have a BMI in the conventional normal range but carry a disproportionately high amount of body fat, particularly visceral or abdominal fat. This matters especially in South Asians, who can develop metabolic complications at lower BMI and may have the so-called thin-fat phenotype. Indian clinical guidance recognises this phenomenon and notes its cardiometabolic significance. So what should we look for? Sometimes the signs are obvious increasing waistline, difficulty climbing stairs, reduced exercise tolerance. Sometimes they are not. Loud snoring, disturbed sleep, daytime sleepiness, breathlessness, joint and back pain, acidity, menstrual irregularities, reduced mobility or unexplained fatigue may be consequences or companions of excess weight and its complications. But obesity can also remain remarkably silent until diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver, sleep apnoea, heart disease or other complications appear. That is why diagnosis should not stop at the weighing scale. BMI is useful, but it is only a screening tool. Waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, body composition, blood pressure, blood glucose, lipid profile and assessment for obesity-related complications can provide a much more meaningful picture. WHO defines obesity in adults conventionally as BMI 30 kg/m, while Indian/Asian-Indian clinical frameworks use lower BMI thresholds because metabolic risk can occur earlier. And perhaps the most important message is this: Obesity is easier to prevent than to reverse. Prevention does not mean crash diets or punishment in the gym. It means making healthier food the easier choice, reducing ultra-processed and sugar-rich foods, eating mindfully, staying physically active, sleeping adequately, reducing sedentary time and building healthier habits early in life. Those at greater risk include people with a family history of obesity or diabetes, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary patterns, certain medications or endocrine disorders, chronic sleep deprivation, and those living in environments where calorie-dense food is abundant and physical activity is difficult. Treatment, when obesity is established, should also move beyond the simplistic advice to eat less and exercise more. Lifestyle intervention remains foundational, but selected patients may benefit from anti-obesity medications, structured behavioural programmes and metabolic/bariatric procedures, depending on severity, complications and individual circumstances. The summit itself reflected this changing landscape, with discussions on novel therapies, emerging medicines, evidence-based clinical care and precision medicine. Ultimately, the JK Obesity Summit was not about judging people for their weight. It was about understanding why weight is changing, what that change means for health, and what we can do before a preventable problem becomes a lifelong disease. Note: We have received a great deal of encouraging feedback from our esteemed readers and patients, who have expressed a desire to know more about what transpired at the JK Obesity Summit in a language accessible to the common person. In response, we will be compiling the key takeaways from the presentations delivered by our distinguished speakers and publishing concise, easy-to-understand summaries for the wider public, under the academic guidance of Dr M. Hayat Bhat, HOD, Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar.
ADGP Armed reviews preparations for upcoming sports events in Srinagar
ADGP Armed J&K Nitish Kumar, on Wednesday chaired a preparatory meeting at the Conference Hall of Armed Police Headquarters (APHQ) J&K to review and finalise arrangements for the sports events. The proposed sporting activities include the Pedal for Peace Cycle Race in September, Jashn-e-Dal in September, the Run for Unity Kashmir Marathon in October, and the 21st Martyrs Memorial Football Tournament, also scheduled for October. During the meeting, Nitish Kumar stressed the need for meticulous planning, close coordination among all stakeholders and timely completion of arrangements. He reviewed preparations related to logistics, security, traffic management, medical cover and publicity and directed the concerned officers to ensure that all arrangements are put in place well ahead of the scheduled events. He said such initiatives are aimed at promoting a culture of sports, encouraging greater participation of youth and providing opportunities to identify and nurture emerging sporting talent. Referring to the Martyrs Memorial Football Tournament, the ADGP said the event also serves as a tribute to police personnel and other brave martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Earlier, DySP Sports, APHQ, Kuldeep Hondoo gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the proposed arrangements, including the constitution of various committees and sub-committees for the smooth conduct of the events. The meeting was attended by senior officers, including retired IGP S. A. Watali, president of the J&K Kayaking and Canoeing Association; DIG CKR Srinagar Rajiv Omprakash Panday; DIG Armed Police Range Kashmir Maqsood-ul-Zaman; SSP Srinagar Dr G V Sundeep Chakravarthy; AIG Welfare PHQ J&K Hareesh Puttaiah; SSP Traffic City Srinagar Aijaz Ahmad Bhat; SSP Staff Officer to ADGP Armed Dalip Kumar; SSP PCR Kashmir Showkat Ahmad; and other senior officers from the Armed Police, Traffic Police, SDRF, Communications and other wings. Representatives of various sports associations also participated in the meeting, including Dr Burhan, president of the J&K Rowing and Sculling Association; Bilkis Mir, Technical Delegate J&K; Wali Mohd Bhat, president of the Shikara Association; Aijaz Ali, vice president of the J&K Dragon Boat Association; and Shabir Ahmad, secretary of the Dragon Boat Association. The meeting also discussed coordination with sports bodies and other stakeholders to ensure the successful and smooth conduct of the events in Srinagar.
Auqib Nabi begins County stint with Surrey
Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has joined Surrey for a three-match stint in the County Championship, with the move providing the promising seamer an opportunity to gain experience of English conditions ahead of Indias tour of New Zealand later this year. Nabi, who recently received his maiden India call-up as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, has travelled to the United Kingdom and is set to make his Surrey debut against Yorkshire at The Oval on Wednesday. The 29-year-old will also be available for Surreys next two matches against Sussex in Hove from September 8-11 and Glamorgan at The Oval from September 15-18. The county side had been looking to strengthen its bowling attack, particularly with a swing bowler, and Nabis ability to move the ball is expected to be useful in the English conditions. The stint could also prove significant for Nabis international ambitions. Nabi has emerged as one of the most prolific uncapped fast bowlers in Indian domestic cricket. Representing Jammu and Kashmir, he was the leading wicket-taker in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, taking 60 wickets at an average of just over 12.5. His campaign included a five-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy final, helping J&K clinch their maiden title, while he also claimed nine wickets in the semi-final. He has taken more than 100 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons and also grabbed headlines in the 2025 Duleep Trophy when he took four wickets in four balls for North Zone. His performances earned him an IPL contract with Delhi Capitals, for whom he played five matches during the 2026 season. Nabi is expected to return to India in time for the India A series against Australia A, beginning September 22 in Puducherry. Its an honour to join Surrey, one of the best clubs in England, Nabi said.
DC Budgam visits JU campus at RakhArth Bemina
Budgam, Sep 2: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, AtharAamir Khan, on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive site visit to RakhArth, Bemina, to inspect the ongoing infrastructure development works for the proposed Kashmir campus of the University of Jammu (JU). During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the progress of various key works sanctioned for the site. The works include construction of a boundary wall and protective fencing around the designated land to secure the campus site; construction of the main approach road to ensure connectivity with the campus and prefabricated structures; and erection of a prefabricated unit comprising a mini-office and Chowkidar room to facilitate preliminary site management and administrative operations. The Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of maintaining high standards of quality and ensuring strict adherence to the prescribed timelines. He directed the executing agencies to expedite the remaining works and ensure timely completion for providing seamless accessibility and security to the proposed academic and research facility. He said that the establishment of the University of Jammus Kashmir campus at RakhArth, Budgam, would strengthen higher education infrastructure and promote academic and research opportunities in the region. Senior officers of the district administration, including the Executive Engineer R&B, Assistant Executive Engineer R&B and representatives of the executing agencies, accompanied the Deputy Commissioner during the inspection.
SSP Anantnag chairs operations and crime review meeting in Anantnag
Srinagar, Sep 2:SSP Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure chaired a comprehensive operations cum crime review meeting at DPO Anantnag to assess the overall ops situation and review the progress of ongoing investigations. The meeting was attended by ASP North Camp Ashmuqam Rameez Raja, all SDPOs, SHOs, and in-charges of police posts. During the meeting, the SSP reviewed the status of registered cases, progress of investigations, pending cases, preventive measures and the overall law and order situation. He directed all officers to ensure timely and professional investigation, close monitoring of pending cases, and strict adherence to established procedures. Special emphasis was laid on NDPS cases, with the SSP directing officers to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking and drug peddling. He stressed upon identifying and taking stringent action against drug suppliers, peddlers and repeat offenders, besides ensuring effective investigation of NDPS cases and timely completion of legal proceedings. Officers were also directed to intensify efforts to trace the financial networks and properties linked to drug trafficking, wherever applicable. SSP Anantnagemphasised strengthening preventive policing, taking prompt action against anti-social and criminal elements, effective beat policing and prompt redressal of public grievances. He directed all officers to remain vigilant, ensure accountability at every level and adopt a proactive approach towards maintaining peace, security, and public order across the district.
Overloading, safety concerns cast shadow over Srinagar's growing e-rickshaw network
Commuters have expressed concern over safety concerns, overloading and overcharging by e-rickshaws in the summer capital. Battery-operated rickshaws have rapidly emerged as the backbone of short-distance public transport across Srinagar, connecting commuters through the city centre, Downtown and Uptown localities. However, while commuters acknowledge the convenience of the service, they say rising instances of overloading, safety lapses, inconsistent fares and underage driving are increasingly putting lives at risk. Passengers said overloading remains one of the most common violations, particularly during peak morning and evening hours, when some e-rickshaws carry far more passengers than their permitted capacity. E-rickshaw are meant for four passengers, but we often see five or even six people squeezed inside. Sometimes another passenger is made to sit beside the driver in the front, leaving hardly any space. Since these are three-wheelers, it becomes risky, especially while negotiating turns, said Nusrat Jan, a college student who frequently. Another commuter, Mudasir Ahmad, said the problem is visible across several busy routes in the city. Many operators overload to earn a few extra fares in one trip. Passengers also agree because they don't want to wait. But the practice puts everyone at risk. A slight imbalance or sudden brake can lead to an accident, he said. Commuters said the risk becomes even greater on roads riddled with potholes, particularly in several Downtown and uptown localities where uneven road surfaces frequently destabilise the vehicles. There have been several incidents in recent weeks where overloaded e-rickshaws were tilted or overturned after hitting potholes. Videos and photographs of such accidents keep surfacing on social media. Thankfully, many passengers escaped with minor injuries, but next time the consequences could be much worse, said Shabir Hussain, a resident of Downtown Srinagar. Students said they continue to depend heavily on e-rickshaws because they are faster and more accessible than minibuses for short-distance travel. We rely on them daily because they save time and reach areas where larger vehicles don't. But there should be strict checks against overloading. Safety cannot be compromised for convenience, said Sana Jan, a university student. Besides safety concerns, commuters also pointed to the absence of a transparent fare mechanism after conventional fuel-run autorickshaws were largely replaced by battery-operated vehicles. There is no standard fare system. Charges often vary depending on the driver's mood, rush hours or the urgency of passengers. Since these e-rickshaws have become the primary mode of short-distance transport, authorities should fix route-wise fares and ensure they are displayed prominently, said Mohammad Yousuf, an office employee. Residents also expressed concern over reports of minors operating e-rickshaws in some areas, calling it a serious threat to passenger safety. Driving without a valid licence is dangerous not only for passengers but also for pedestrians and other motorists. Such violations should invite strict action, said Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Bemina. Traffic Police said enforcement against violations has been intensified across the city. A Traffic Police official said that regular enforcement drives are being conducted to curb overloading, underage driving and other traffic violations involving e-rickshaws. Our teams have been carrying out sustained drives over the past several days across different parts of the city. We are checking overloading, documentation in these vehicles. Action is also being taken wherever minors are found operating vehicles. These drives will continue, and violators will be dealt with strictly, the official said. The official said e-rickshaws have significantly improved last-mile connectivity in Srinagar and are an important component of the city's transport system. The objective is not to discourage this mode of transport but to ensure that it operates safely and within the prescribed rules, officials said.
HC quashes PSA detention of Pulwama man
Srinagar, Sep 2: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh on Wednesday quashed detention of a man from south Kashmirs Pulwama district under Public Safety Act (PSA), noting that the detention lacked a live and proximate link between his past conduct and the need for preventive custody. Allowing his plea assailing Pulwama District Magistrate's detention order dated July 10, 2025, a bench of Justice M A Chowdhary ordered immediate release of Suhail Fayaz Najar of Hariparigam, Awantipora, Pulwama, while quashing the detention order. The court noted that the main material relied upon against Najar related to an FIR registered in 2021 under provisions of the UAPA. He had subsequently been granted bail by the competent court. The court observed that mere awareness of the bail order was insufficient and that the detaining authority was required to establish fresh or continuing material showing a real and proximate likelihood of prejudicial activities after his release. The subsequent proceedings against Najar under Sections 107/151 CrPC did not provide the necessary basis for preventive detention, as the record did not demonstrate that any fresh material had emerged indicating a likelihood of his engaging in activities prejudicial to the security of the State, the court noted. The court held that reference to the Amarnath Yatra could not, by itself, justify detention, observing that a general apprehension arising from a sensitive event could not substitute for specific material connecting an individual to a security threat. Another key infirmity was the failure of the authorities to establish that the entire material relied upon for the detention was supplied to the detainee. The court said such non-supply impaired his constitutional right under Article 22(5) to make an effective representation against the detention.
Srinagar, Sep 2:Why should I resign? Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Wednesday, hitting back at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s demand for his resignation, while accusing the J&K administration and police of applying different standards to protests by the National Conference (NC) and the BJP. CM Omar alleged that while BJP leaders were facilitated during their march towards the civil secretariat, NC leaders and workers were brutally repressed when they attempted to march towards the BJP headquarters in Jawahar Nagar over the delay in restoration of J&Ks statehood. The CMs remarks came as the ruling NC and the opposition BJP staged rival protests across Srinagar, turning the streets into a political arena over two sharply different issues the NCs demand for restoration of statehood and the BJPs attack on CM Omar-led government over alleged governance failures. You saw how the BJP was allowed to protest, but the NC was not, he told reporters. The CM said journalists accompanying the BJP protest had been able to freely interact with Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, contrasting it with the treatment meted out to NC protesters. One side was facilitated, the other was brutally repressed. My colleagues were dragged and injured, and some of them had to seek treatment in hospitals, he alleged. CM Omar also rejected Sharmas demand that he resign as the CM. Why should I resign? he asked, questioning whether the BJP-led Centre had any intention of restoring statehood to J&K. If they truly intend to tear the Constitution to shreds, disrespect the Supreme Court, disrespect Parliament and prove Modis promise as false, let them do so. I am not going to resign just to please the LOP, the CM said. He said the people of J&K had given his party a five-year mandate and that his government would present its report card before them. CM Omar also pushed back against BJP allegations of corruption and backdoor appointments, questioning which agency had investigated the alleged irregularities. Does my government even have the authority to conduct an investigation? he asked, pointing out that the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Crime Branch, and CID were not under his control. If backdoor appointments took place, which agency investigated them? Let him name just one, the CM said, asking where an FIR had been registered. He accused the BJP of making baseless allegations, saying his government was dealing with the consequences of decisions taken by its predecessors. We are bearing the brunt of their mistakes; we are trying to fix them, yet they are the ones protesting, CM Omar said. He was also asked about RSS chief Mohan Bhagwats recent remarks that Muslims cannot be downgraded in India. Making a statement is one thing; putting it into practice is another, the CM said, adding that the RSS chiefs words sounded good but needed to be reflected on the ground.
Monsoon illnesses & flu surge lift drug demand
Monsoon illnesses and a significant rise in H1N1 cases are driving a surge in demand for acute therapies and flu vaccines. Sales of anti-infectives and antibacterials saw a 12% month-on-month increase in July, with flu vaccine sales nearly tripling year-on-year in August, leading to supply challenges in several cities.
7.8% GDP faceoff: Subhash Garg, Gaurav Vallabh clash over Rs 6 lakh crore revision
GDP faceoff Subhash Garg Gaurav Vallabh clash over Rs lakh crore revision
New Delhi, Sep 2: The Government of India welcomed the decision of Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) to upgrade Indias Long-Term Foreign Currency and Local Currency Issuer Ratings by one notch from BBB+ to A-, while maintaining the Stable Outlook. JCR has also raised Indias country ceiling by one notch to A. The upgrade reflects Indias solid economic growth, the effectiveness of economic policies in strengthening the foundations for growth, and the improved soundness of the financial system. JCR noted that the Indian economy has maintained a high growth rate, supported by robust private consumption and public investment. The latest GDP estimates released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) indicate that real GDP growth remained strong at 7.8 per cent in FY26. The growth momentum was sustained in Q1 of FY27, with real GDP growing by 7.8 per cent, despite prevailing global headwinds. The agency also highlighted the Governments continued implementation of policies conducive to productivity growth and economic development, including the development of digital public infrastructure and implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, which have strengthened Indias economic foundations. The agency also recognised the improvement in the quality of fiscal expenditure, with greater emphasis on capital expenditure, particularly infrastructure investment. JCR noted that the Central Governments fiscal deficit declined from 4.7% in FY25 to 4.4% in FY26, while capital expenditure remained high. JCR also highlighted the significant improvement in the overall soundness of Indias financial system. The asset quality of the banking sector has strengthened, supported by the establishment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, capital infusion by the Government and strengthened supervision by the RBI. Capital adequacy and profitability in the banking sector have remained sound. The asset quality and capital adequacy of the non-banking financial sector have also improved, further strengthening the financial system. On the external sector, the agency noted that Indias current account deficit remains contained, supported by a surplus in the services balance. Ample foreign exchange reserves, significantly exceeding short-term external debt, provide strong resilience against external shocks. The upgrade comes against the backdrop of a challenging global environment and underscores the continued strengthening of Indias economic fundamentals, supported by sustained growth, effective economic policies, improved fiscal quality and a stronger financial system. It is worth noting that India had previously received sovereign rating upgrades from major international rating agencies over the past year. Morningstar DBRS upgraded Indias sovereign rating in May 2025, followed by S&P Global Ratings in August 2025 and Rating and Investment Information, Inc. (R&I), Japan, in September 2025.
IGP leads foot patrol in Jammu city, reviews law and order situation
Jammu, Sep 2: Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Tejinder Singh, led a foot patrol of security personnel here on Wednesday and reviewed the law and order situation, officials said. Singh was accompanied by Deputy Inspector General Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu and SP North Jammu, the officials said. Singh took over as the Jammu Zone IGP following a major reshuffle in the top police leadership last month. During the patrolling, the officers interacted with residents and shopkeepers and took feedback on public safety and security concerns, they said. According to the officials, the foot patrol was aimed at enhancing police visibility, strengthening public confidence and ensuring effective policing at the grassroots level. The officers directed the police personnel to maintain heightened vigilance, ensure regular patrolling and remain responsive to the security and safety needs of the public, the officials said. They also stressed the need for close coordination among field units to ensure a prompt response to any emerging situation.
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla unveils BHEEM concept for setting up habitat on other planets
Over 3000 Died of Ebola in Congo: Why Is This Spreading So Fast
Ebola outbreak in Congo is one of the deadliest outbreaks in history. As per current stats, over 6,100 people have been affected so far, with the death toll crossing the 3,000 mark.
In 1816, a Barbados-born doctor used dogs and cats to test blood transfusion
New Delhi, Sep 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today chaired the valedictory session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Water, organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The Summit is the first in a series of Departmental Summits envisioned by Prime Minister to strengthen the spirit of Team India, deepen cooperative federalism and foster collective ownership of national priorities through closer collaboration between the Centre and the States. It brought together Ministers and senior officials from States and Union Territories for focused deliberations on various dimensions of Indias water security. Prime Minister appreciated the intensive two-day deliberations and emphasised that the actionable and time-bound action points emerging from the Summit should be pursued through a continuous process of review and learning. He suggested that the Summit should not remain a one-time exercise and called for a continuous process of review and follow-up. Prime Minister called for sensitising Urban Local Bodies to the challenges arising from urbanisation, including population growth and future water requirements, and suggested organising similar Chintan Shivirs for Urban Local Bodies. He called for greater adoption of water-saving technologies. He also suggested dedicated exhibitions and workshops, including exposure to global best practices, to enable Indian manufacturers and stakeholders to develop and scale efficient solutions. Emphasising Jan Bhagidari, Prime Minister suggested promoting Jal Utsav to create greater awareness among people. Prime Minister called for making de-silting a regular programme and developing clear criteria and SOPs for de-silting. On dam safety, he stressed rigorous preparedness before every monsoon, adherence to prescribed precautions and creating awareness among school students, including through suitable incorporation in educational curricula. Prime Minister further called for strengthening knowledge and capacity on water management and governance in universities and higher educational institutions. He suggested structured inter-State study-visits involving public representatives, officials and farmers to facilitate practical learning and replication of successful interventions. Prime Minister called for robust water data governance, with water-sector data brought together, systematically managed, analysed and effectively utilised. He recommended the use of AI for data collection and analysis through a uniform format. He also stressed anticipatory and integrated planning to address water scarcity through suitable utilisation of treated water for agriculture and industrial purposes. Drawing upon his experience as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Prime Minister noted that instances of water scarcity could be transformed into opportunities through systematic planning, commitment and deployment of adequate resources and capable officers. Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil highlighted four key outcomes of the summit: accelerated completion of water infrastructure projects; strengthening water conservation as a sustained peoples movement; ensuring long-term sustainability of drinking-water sources; and institutionalising effective operation and maintenance of rural drinking-water schemes.
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'BJP facilitated, NC repressed': Omar Abdullah slams differential treatment of protesters
Srinagar, Sep 2: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday accused the police and the administration of adopting different standards while dealing with protests by the BJP and the National Conference, claiming while the saffron leaders were escorted, those from his party were dragged. Talking to reporters, Abdullah said while police facilitated the BJP leaders during their march to the Civil Secretariat on Wednesday, his National Conference (NC) colleagues were brutally repressed. You saw one protest that was denied. It showed the situation in J&K today: if you want to march on the Chief Minister's residence, you're allowed to; if you want to gherao the Secretariat, you're allowed to; but if you want to protest outside the BJP's office, God forbid, you will not be allowed, because the police are there only to protect the honour of the BJP; they don't care about anything else, the Chief Minister said. The remarks came after police stopped NC protesters from marching towards the BJP headquarters in Jawahar Nagar to press for the restoration of statehood after its leaders and workers assembled in large numbers near the Gindun Sports Complex in Rajbagh. The BJP too held a large protest against the alleged failure of the J&K government, with hundreds of party workers assembling near the Clock Tower at Lal Chowk. The protesters had planned a gherao of the Civil Secretariat the seat of the J&K government but were stopped by police near Hari Singh High Street. Abdullah said he saw videos of journalists interacting with the BJP leaders during the latter's protest march. I saw many of you accompanying that protest. The ease with which you were able to interview the leader of the opposition (Sunil Sharma) was seen by all. You saw how the BJP was allowed to protest, but the NC was not. So, please don't draw false equals. One side was facilitated, the other was brutally repressed. My colleagues were dragged and injured, and some of them had to seek treatment in hospitals, Abdullah claimed. Responding to Suni Sharma's demand for his resignation as the chief minister, Abdullah said there was no reason for him to step down. Why should I resign? Should we assume that they have no intention of granting statehood to this government? If so, why are we not hearing it directly from the Centre? If they truly intend to tear the Constitution to shreds, disrespect the Supreme Court, disrespect Parliament and prove Modi's promise as false, let them do so. I am not going to resign just to please the LoP, Abdullah said. The chief minister said the people of J&K gave his party a mandate for five years and he will present a report card to them. As for the allegations (of corruption), does my government even have the authority to conduct an investigation? Let the LoP tell us what investigation was carried out. If backdoor appointments took place, which agency investigated them? Let him name just one. The Anti-Corruption Bureau is not under my control. The Crime Branch is not under my control. The CID is not under my control, let alone the central agencies. Tell us, where was an FIR filed? he asked. Abdullah also accused the BJP of making baseless allegations since it didnt have anything else to say. We are bearing the brunt of their mistakes; we are trying to fix them, yet they are the ones protesting, he said. Asked about RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's remark that Muslims cannot be downgraded, the chief minister said it needs to be put into practice. Addressing members of the Indian-American community in New York recently, Bhagwat said that if any Hindu believes there should be no Muslims in Bharat, he will not remain a Hindu. Making a statement is one thing; putting it into practice is another. The truth is, what the RSS chief said sounded good. But it has to show on the ground, Abdullah said. On the Supreme Court quashing all FIRs against student protesters, Abdullah said the BJP had been on the back foot for quite some time. Ever since the Cockroach Janta Party was launched and Gen Z took the matter forward, the BJP has been on the back foot. We will see how long it remains on the back foot, he said. The Supreme Court on Tuesday quashed all the FIRs registered against students who participated in the CJP-led protests across the country between July 20 and 25, prompting the group to call off its September 5 march in the national capital. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant also directed the Centre to provide compensation to families of students who ended their lives over the NEET paper leak within three months.
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UGC approves 33 new, 21 updated allied and healthcare courses; revises degree durations
New Delhi, Sep 2: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is strengthening the education, training and professional standards of Allied and Healthcare Professions to build a skilled, competent and future-ready healthcare workforce for the country. In a significant step in this direction, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has notified 33 new and 21 restructured/updated Allied and Healthcare Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) degrees under the regulatory purview of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP). The UGC has issued the 5th Amendment to the Specification of Degrees under Section 22(3) of the UGC Act, 1956 vide Notification No. F.21-12/2026(CPP-II) (UIN:3/2026) dated August 27, 2026. The Gazette Notification was published on August 31, 2026. The notification is an important step towards bringing greater uniformity in Allied and Healthcare education across the country and strengthening academic and professional pathways in these critical healthcare disciplines. Appreciating the efforts made by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, UGC and NCAHP team, Dr. Yagna Unmesh Shukla, Chairperson, NCAHP said, This UGC notification will bring uniformity across Allied and Healthcare courses, their duration, degree nomenclature and entry qualification under the One Nation, One Curriculum mandate by the Commission. This notification will provide immense guidance to students who are aiming to pursue their career in Allied and Healthcare Professions scheduled under the NCAHP Act, 2021. The degrees notified cover disciplines including Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Emergency Medical Technology, Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Psychology, Medical and Social Psychiatric Social Work, Medical Radiology, Imaging and Therapeutic Technology, Physician Associate, Respiratory Technology, Dialysis Therapy Technology and Health Information Management, among others. The notification specifies the degree nomenclature, abbreviation, duration and entry qualifications, while course durations have also been revised for select programmes. The notification further provides for specialisation-specific degrees, with nine specialisations in Master of Occupational Therapy, eight in Master of Physiotherapy, four in Master of Medical Laboratory Sciences, three in Master of Medical Radiology and Imaging Technology and two in Master of Respiratory Technology. This will expand academic opportunities for students and enable universities to offer specialised programmes aligned with the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. The reform is aimed at establishing institutional parity and uniform national standards in Allied and Healthcare education while aligning degree nomenclature with globally accepted degree-level qualifications. This is expected to encourage more students to pursue these professions, provide clearer academic and career pathways and facilitate greater mobility and international recognition of Indian Allied and Healthcare professionals. The initiative fulfils the statutory mandate of NCAHP under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021, which provides for the regulation and maintenance of standards of education and professional services across Allied and Healthcare Professions. In line with this mandate, NCAHP has already released 18 competency-based curricula covering 28 professions, with the objective of standardising curricula and degree nomenclature across the country. The competency-based curricula place particular emphasis on hands-on clinical training through adequate-duration internships at hospitals or associated practising facilities. This approach seeks to ensure that students develop the practical skills, professional competencies and clinical exposure required for effective healthcare delivery. To ensure seamless adoption of the reforms, NCAHP has already issued directive to all the states, union territories and other relevant stakeholders much before the commencement of the academic year to mandatorily implement the released curricula from 2026-27 academic year, with an option to commence the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT) course. The Commission is also working towards finalising the remaining competency-based curricula for implementation from the subsequent academic year. The measures are expected to strengthen the availability of a well-trained and qualified Allied and Healthcare workforce, which forms an essential component of multidisciplinary healthcare delivery. The reforms will also provide greater clarity and consistency for students, educational institutions and healthcare establishments while creating improved opportunities for professional growth and mobility.
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CCPA fines Dial4Trade Rs 10 lakh for unauthorised online sale of ammonium nitrate
New Delhi, Sep 2: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed a penalty of 10 lakh on Dial4Trade Technologies Private Limited for facilitating the online listing, hosting, advertising and sale of Ammonium Nitrate on its e-commerce platform without the mandatory regulatory safeguards required under law. The final order was passed by the CCPA, headed by Chief Commissioner Smt. Nidhi Khare and Commissioner Shri Anupam Mishra, under Sections 10, 20 and 21 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The CCPA has also directed Dial4Trade to immediately discontinue the listing, hosting, advertising or facilitation of sale of Ammonium Nitrate, or any other substance classified as an explosive under the Explosives Act, 1884, on its platform. CCPA finds absence of mandatory disclosures and verification During examination of the platform, the CCPA found that Ammonium Nitrate was listed and made available for purchase without adequate safeguards, including: Disclosure of valid PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation) licence details of the seller; Verification of the identity and licensed status of the buyer before purchase; Mechanisms to ensure traceability of transactions, as required under the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012; and Cautions regarding legal restrictions on the possession and use of the substance and the consequences of unauthorised possession. The listing was also accompanied by imagery depicting explosions and blast effects. The CCPA observed that such imagery was likely to attract attention to the product rather than communicate its hazardous and regulated nature. The CCPA held that a product listing hosted on a digital marketplace and communicated to the public over the internet falls within the definition of an advertisement under Section 2(1) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The Authority further held that presenting a regulated explosive substance for sale in the manner of an ordinary consumer product, without informing users that its lawful purchase requires the prescribed licence, constitutes a misleading advertisement and unfair trade practice under Sections 2(28) and 2(47) of the Act. Dial4Trade contended that it operates as a Business-to-Business (B2B) marketplace intermediary and should not be held responsible for listings uploaded by third-party sellers. The CCPA rejected the contention, noting that the platform permitted purchase of the substance in quantities as low as a single unit and did not have minimum order quantity or institutional-buyer verification mechanisms ordinarily associated with a B2B model. The CCPA also held that the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 apply to marketplace e-commerce entities, irrespective of how the platform describes its business model. The CCPA also examined Dial4Trades reliance on the intermediary safe-harbour protection under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The Authority observed that such protection is subject to compliance with prescribed due-diligence requirements. It found that a compliance mechanism based only on reactive removal of listings after detection, rather than verification at the point of listing, was insufficient in the case of regulated and hazardous substances. The CCPA also noted that Dial4Trade had the ability to block sellers and delist products from its platform, indicating that the platform exercised control over the content hosted on it. Sector-wide examination of e-commerce platforms The action against Dial4Trade forms part of the CCPAs ongoing examination of e-commerce platforms concerning the unauthorised online sale of hazardous chemicals, explosive substances and related precursors. The substances under examination include Ammonium Nitrate, Gun Powder, Picric Acid and Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN). The matter is currently under examination in respect of the following platforms: India MART; Justdial; Sigma-Aldrich India; Exporters India; Ibuychemikals; Alpha Chemika; and TradeIndia. CCPA reiterates need for due diligence by e-commerce platforms The CCPA noted that Ammonium Nitrate is a regulated substance whose unauthorised sale or possession without prescribed safeguards can pose risks to public safety. The Authority reiterated that consumers rely on product listings and descriptions while making online purchases and that e-commerce platforms are required to undertake appropriate due diligence when dealing with regulated products. The CCPA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumer rights, preventing unfair trade practices and strengthening compliance by e-commerce platforms, particularly in relation to regulated and hazardous products.
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Kargil airport operationalisation a priority, efforts underway to resolve issues: Ladakh LG
Kargil, Sep 2: Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday said concerted efforts are underway to operationalise Kargil airport at the earliest, with the administration working to address the technical and other challenges involved. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) here, he said a meeting was held on Tuesday with local leaders and other stakeholders including representatives from the Indian Air force and Airport Authority of India to discuss the operationalisation of the airport. There is a strong desire among all of us to make this airport operationlise as soon as possible. There are some difficulties and challenges, including issues related to land acquisition and certain technical issues. These need to be addressed as per the prescribed airport standards, the LG said. He said the administration is making every effort to resolve the pending issues in a comprehensive manner and make the airport functional at the earliest. This is also a long-standing expectation of the people of Kargil, and we are committed to addressing it, Saxena said. He said the inauguration of POPSK Kargil is an important step towards ensuring last-mile delivery of citizen-centric services in Ladakh. Today is a very important day for the people of Kargil. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people because the long-standing problem they were facing has finally been resolved, and the process of establishing this facility has been completed, the LG said. Saxena said the people living here and those coming from surrounding areas, particularly those who need to travel for various services, used to face a great deal of inconvenience. They often had to travel long distances, sometimes to Srinagar or elsewhere, which involved considerable time, effort and expense. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Department of Posts for fulfilling the long-pending aspiration of the people of Kargil. Saxena said that bringing essential services closer to citizens is central to the governments vision of Ease of Living, particularly in the remote and geographically challenging regions such as Ladakh. He expressed confidence that the new facility would provide people with fair, efficient, transparent and hassle-free passport services. He also appreciated Union minister Kirti Vardhan Singh for visiting Kargil for the inauguration and for the support extended by the Ministry of External Affairs in establishing the POPSK.
Kishtwar rape-death case: Crime Branch raids prime accused's house; 2nd hospital worker dismissed
Jammu, Sep 2: The Crime Branch on Wednesday raided the residence of the prime accused in the rape-and-death case of a 15-year-old tribal girl in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar, while authorities dismissed a second sanitation worker from the hospital in the case, officials said. The case was handed over to the Crime Branch on August 29 following widespread condemnation and protests. A minor was raped allegedly by her school teacher over several months before she died during a pregnancy termination procedure on August 20. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of police has arrested a total of seven persons, including the main accused, his brother, two hospital sanitation workers and a nurse, in connection with an FIR registered at Chatroo police station under relevant provisions of the POCSO Act, BNS and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The officials said a Crime Branch team raided the residence of the prime accused along with the house of his brother. The raids were carried out as part of the ongoing investigation, with the team searching the premises to gather evidence and examine material that could establish the sequence of events and the alleged involvement of the accused, the officials said. In a related development, the officials said the services of a hospital development fund (HDF) sanitation worker at district hospital Kishtwar, have been terminated with immediate effect following her arrest in the case on August 30. This office has been formally intimated about the said arrest...the allegations and the nature of the offences involved are of an extremely grave and serious nature, which have rendered the continuation of the said individual in service wholly incompatible with the discipline, integrity, reputation and functioning of a public health institution, the order reads.
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Security forces use lathis as BJP workers attempt to march towards secretariat in Srinagar
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ACB arrests junior assistant for accepting Rs 15,000 bribe in Jammu
Jammu, Sep 2: Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau on Wednesday trapped and arrested a Junior Assistant posted in the office of Assistant Commissioner (General), Jammu for allegedly demanding and accepting bribe of Rs 15,000 for issuing a marriage certificate. Officials said the ACB trapped and arrest a public servant identified as Ajay Kumar, S/o Late Sh. Ram Murti, R/o Village Gango Chack, Gajansoo, Jammu, presently posted as Junior Assistant in the Office of the Assistant Commissioner (General), Jammu, for demanding and accepting a bribe. They said a written complaint was received by the ACB alleging that the accused public servant had demanded a bribe of 20,000 from the complainant for issuance of a Marriage Certificate under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. Following negotiations, the accused allegedly agreed to accept 15,000 as illegal gratification. Unwilling to pay the bribe, the complainant approached the Anti-Corruption Bureau and requested legal action against the accused public servant. Upon receipt of the complaint, the ACB conducted a discreet verification, which established a prima facie case regarding the demand of bribe by the accused public servant. Consequently, FIR No. 11/2026 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018), was registered at Police Station ACB Central J&K, Jammu, and investigation was taken up, officials said. During the course of investigation, a trap team was constituted by the ACB. The team laid a successful trap and caught the accused red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe amount of 15,000 from the complainant. The accused was immediately arrested on the spot, and the bribe money was recovered from his possession in the presence of independent witnesses associated with the trap proceedings. Subsequently, searches were conducted at the residential premises of the accused government employee in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and independent witnesses. Officials added that further investigation into the case is underway.
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Farooq Abdullah says J&K will no longer remain silent, demands restoration of statehood
