CAT Jammu bench's disposal of service cases among highest in country: Jitendra Singh
Jammu, Sep 20: Disposal of service cases by the Jammu bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has gone beyond expectations and is among the highest in the country, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Sunday. Speaking after inaugurating the Jammu bench's new Office-and-Court Complex at Bahu Plaza here, Singh said the high disposal rate at the CAT benches in Jammu and Srinagar demonstrates the capacity built by the Tribunal to provide speedy and accessible justice in service matters. Referring to the Tribunal's overall performance, Singh said that since its inception in 1985 to June 30, 2026, CAT has seen 10,01,177 cases being filed before its benches across the country. Of this, 9,32,723 have been disposed of, resulting in an overall disposal rate of approximately 93.16 per cent. The performance of the Jammu and Srinagar benches was particularly significant in view of the substantial workload transferred to them from the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir High Court, apart from the fresh cases instituted before the Tribunal. Up to June 30 this year, as many as 20,984 cases were transferred from the high court, while 20,405 fresh cases were filed before these benches, he said. Accordingly, 18,392 and 13,952 cases were disposed of from the above two categories respectively, said Singh, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office. The minister said the government was making sustained efforts to strengthen the institutional capacity of CAT and ensure that the facilities and technological tools available to constitutional courts are increasingly adopted within the Tribunal system as well. He said the Jammu and Srinagar experience demonstrates that institutional capacity, technology, infrastructure and cooperation among all stakeholders can significantly strengthen the delivery of administrative justice. The Jammu bench, which initially functioned with one Division bench, was subsequently strengthened with another Division bench in view of the growing workload and the need for speedy redressal of employees' grievances. It currently has two judicial members and two administrative members. The minister also highlighted the low rate of appeals from the CAT Jammu bench to the Jammu and Kashmir High Court. Only around 8 per cent of cases from the Jammu bench have gone for appeal in the high court, he said. Referring to the statutory provision to challenge CAT judgments in the high court, the minister said that while the appellate mechanism has its place, repeated or unnecessary recourse to further litigation can add another layer to the process and potentially delay the objective of speedy justice. The ideal situation would be when no room is left to go for an appeal, he said. The minister also highlighted the growing use of technology to improve access to justice and for the convenience of litigants and the legal fraternity. He said CAT has progressively introduced digital facilities, including the Advance Case Information System (ACIS), e-filing, video conferencing, online display boards, SMS and email alerts, online payment of court fees, mobile-based access to case information, online certified copies, advanced search facilities, e-mentioning and e-listing. Video conferencing, he said, had proved particularly useful during the COVID-19 period, enabling the Jammu bench to remain functional despite the extraordinary circumstances. The Tribunal has also undertaken digitisation of judicial records and introduced e-Court and paperless court facilities.
Losing Weight but Cholesterol Going Up? Why Your Numbers Can Temporarily Look Worse
It is believed that losing significant weight would improve your cholesterol levels, but it might not work for everyone. Some people may see elevated cholesterol, which might concern you, but that is actually a temporary shift. To learn more, read this article.
MPs mandate is to voice J&K in Parliament, not destabilise NC government: Javed Beigh on Ruhullah
Congress backs NC government, seeks double sittings in Assembly: G.A. Mir
Srinagar, Sep 20: Senior PDP leader and MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para has proposed a private members bill seeking a comprehensive framework to address declining fertility in Jammu and Kashmir while strengthening healthcare, education and social support for women and adolescent girls. Titled 'Protection of Kashmirs Future Generations from Demographic Decline and Advancement of Women, Adolescent Girls, Maternal and Child Health Bill, 2026', the proposed legislation has been forwarded to the Assembly Secretariat for consideration during the 10-day Autumn session which is scheduled to begin here on September 21. The Bill, also known as 'Maa-Beti Aur Aane Wali Naslein Bachao Bill, 2026', seeks to combine measures for womens health and empowerment with voluntary and non-coercive measures intended to address the long-term consequences of sustained below-replacement fertility. The Bill's statement of objects and reasons identifies declining fertility and changing family structures as key demographic developments in Jammu and Kashmir. It cites the National Family Health Survey-5 and states that the total fertility rate in Jammu and Kashmir was approximately 1.4 children per woman, below the conventional replacement-level fertility rate of 2.1. According to the Bill, the demographic transition has implications for the future age structure of society, inter-generational support systems, rural communities, labour-force availability, social security and the sustainability of families and communities. It connects the demographic shift with growing educational and economic pressures on young people, delays in marriage and childbearing, and wider concerns over the health and well-being of women and adolescent girls. A central feature of the proposed approach is the creation of a voluntary, non-coercive and inclusive Family Support and Demographic Stabilisation Scheme. The scheme is intended to reduce economic and social barriers to family formation. The Bill proposes that such support may include financial assistance, educational scholarships, childcare support, maternity assistance, housing-related assistance, nutritional support, healthcare and crche facilities. It also proposes graded financial and educational support for eligible families raising two or more children, including additional social-security assistance and scholarship support. It also calls for strict, transparent and time-bound enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, along with stronger monitoring of ultrasound and diagnostic facilities. The proposed framework includes periodic inspections, record verification and compliance audits, with violations to be dealt with under the applicable Central law. A confidential mechanism for reporting suspected sex-selection activities is also proposed. The identity of complainants would be protected to the extent permitted by law, while the government may prescribe a reward scheme for information leading to successful enforcement action, subject to safeguards against false or malicious complaints. The Bill also calls for sustained public-awareness campaigns against sex selection, female foeticide and discrimination against the girl child, as well as against dowry-related practices and denial of education to girls. To track the demographic transition, the Bill also proposes a Jammu and Kashmir Demographic Research and Monitoring Cell. The proposed body would study fertility trends, age structure, marriage patterns, maternal and child health, female education, migration, workforce participation and economic pressures affecting family formation. It would also publish an annual Jammu and Kashmir Demographic and Family Well-being Report, providing a proposed institutional mechanism for monitoring demographic and family-related indicators. The Bill further proposes a Kashmir Girls and Womens Health Mission to coordinate implementation, covering community awareness, school and college programmes, menstrual-health campaigns, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) awareness, nutrition and anaemia programmes, reproductive-health camps, maternal and child-health awareness, educational continuation and demographic research. It also proposes a Jammu and Kashmir Council for Women, Girls and Future Generations, along with district-level committees to monitor areas including free sanitary-product availability, maternal-health services, education re-entry, child healthcare and implementation of government schemes. The Bill acknowledges that implementation would require expenditure from public funds, including for reproductive-health clinics, sanitary products, vending machines, menstrual-waste facilities, health screening, educational scholarships and re-entry programmes, childcare facilities, maternal and child-health services, community outreach and demographic research. It proposes adequate budgetary provision and a dedicated 'Women, Girls and Future Generations Fund', with expenditure subject to applicable financial rules and audit. A specific provision of the Bill proposes the establishment of a 100-bed Maternity and Child-Care Hospital in Pulwama district of south Kashmir. The proposed hospital would provide antenatal and obstetric services, high-risk pregnancy care, emergency obstetric care, neonatal intensive care, paediatric care, diagnostics, ultrasonography, postnatal care, breastfeeding support and maternal nutrition services. The Bills policy declaration sets out its broader approach in terms of ensuring that girls do not miss school because they cannot afford menstrual products, and young women do not have to abandon education because of marriage or motherhood, among others. It concludes by stating that the objective is not to control women or dictate family size, but to remove economic, educational, healthcare and social barriers affecting motherhood, education, healthcare and family life, while protecting the constitutional dignity, equality, privacy and autonomy of women and girls.
NC, Congress, Independents unite ahead of J&K Assembly session
Development of AmarKantak to boost economic activity, employment: LG Sinha
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Karnataka medical institute opened by PM plans free cancer immunotherapy for patients
The Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute plans to offer free immunotherapy for cancer patients. A new 600-bed hospital will soon launch on campus, expanding free medical services. Modern genomics treatment is already initiated, and rare disease research is underway. The mission has invested significantly in service initiatives and seeks corporate and international support. Free paediatric healthcare and nutrition programs are also highlighted as key achievements.
IGP Kashmir reviews security, law & order in Handwara
Srinagar, Sep 20: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar today visited Handwara and reviewed the prevailing security situation, counter-terrorism grid, law & order preparedness, crime scenario and overall operational readiness of the district. On his visit, IGP Kashmir was accompanied by DIG North Kashmir Range, Dr Vinod Kumar. During the visit, SSP Handwara, Tahir Saleem Khan, briefed the IGP Kashmir on various security and operational aspects of the district, including the prevailing security situation, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, area domination measures, security of vulnerable locations, law & order preparedness and the prevailing crime scenario. During the review, IGP Kashmir emphasised the need for strengthening a public-friendly approach in policing, improving crime disposal and devising effective strategies in accordance with field requirements. IGP Kumar stressed the importance of maintaining operational preparedness and ensuring a prompt and effective response to emerging security and law & order challenges. IGP Kashmir appreciated the commitment, dedication and professionalism of the police personnel deployed in challenging operational areas. He exhorted all ranks to remain vigilant, maintain a high level of preparedness and continue discharging their duties with dedication and professionalism to ensure the safety and security of the public.
Mehbooba urges Omar to take up Salamabad centres tourism conversion with Centre
Srinagar, Sep 20: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday urged Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take up with the Centre the issue of converting the Salamabad Trade Facilitation Centre near the Line of Control at Uri into a tourism facility. The Salamabad Trade Facilitation Centre was built to bridge divided families, revive trade and heal wounds, not be reduced to a mere tourist site. It came at a heavy price, with many PDP workers losing their lives during the Muzaffarabad Chalo rally. I urge @OmarAbdullah to take this up with the GOI and restore its original purpose, Mehbooba posted on X. The former chief minister said there was a need to reopen routes connecting Kashmir to the outside world. Kashmir needs more bridges to the outside world, not the shutting of those that connect us, she added. The Salamabad Trade Facilitation Centre was built in 2008 after India and Pakistan agreed to a barter system of trade between Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Cross-LoC trade was stopped by the Centre in April 2019 after authorities alleged that the route was being used for terror funding, smuggling of illegal weapons and narcotics, and circulation of counterfeit currency. Last week, the tourism department took over the trade facilitation centre as the facility had remained idle for the past seven years.
Farooq calls for coordinated approach as NC, Congress MLAs meet ahead of session
Srinagar, Sep 20: A meeting of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Legislature Party was held at the Banquet Hall here on Sunday under the chairmanship of party president Dr Farooq Abdullah, ahead of the autumn session of the J&K Legislative Assembly beginning tomorrow. JKNC vice president and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah attended the meeting, while six Congress MLAs also joined the deliberations as part of preparations for the forthcoming session. The legislators discussed the legislative business expected to come up during the session, along with various issues of public importance, including public welfare, development and governance. Farooq Abdullah called upon the legislators to maintain close coordination and ensure that the concerns and aspirations of the people are effectively raised in the House. He stressed the need for constructive participation and focused engagement on matters concerning the people, according to a statement issued after the meeting. The members also discussed priorities to be taken up during the session and deliberated on issues related to public welfare, development and governance. The meeting emphasized the importance of coordinated participation by the party legislators during the proceedings of the Assembly. The autumn session of the J&K Legislative Assembly is scheduled to commence on Monday.
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Which City Is Known As The Kachori Capital Of India?
Crispy, flaky and packed with flavour, kachori is more than just a snack in this Rajasthani city, it's a tradition that's best experienced fresh from the fryer.
Jammu, Sep 20: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today laid the foundation stones for projects aimed at the renovation, restoration and revival of the ancient heritage of Purmandal, worth Rs. 7.15 crore, and for renovation, restoration and related development works at the sacred Uttervehini site, worth Rs. 6.85 crore. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said the initiative was not merely about repairing bricks and stones, but about reconnecting the nation's glorious past with a radiant future. Referring to India's cultural ethos, the Lieutenant Governor noted that the preservation of history, sacred knowledge and values rooted in Dharma serves as the lifeline of a nation. A nation that forgets its heritage loses its foundation. But a nation that respects, preserves and revives its roots ensures that its future generations stand with confidence, resilience, self-belief and a strong sense of identity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that Purmandal, blessed by the sacred Devika River, has for centuries been a site visited by saints, sages and spiritual seekers, and that its ancient temples, stone carvings, sacred ponds and historical structures reflect outstanding architectural and artistic achievement, much of which had diminished by time and neglect. The Lieutenant Governor stated that the old Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the old Shiva Temple, the old Ram Temple at Purmandal, and the historic temple complexes at Uttervehini would be restored using a blend of modern conservation techniques and traditional architectural aesthetics. The Lieutenant Governor also observed that the restoration work would help establish Jammu Kashmir as a leading destination for spiritual and cultural tourism, with improved infrastructure, pathways and lighting creating convenient linkages for pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, Shiv Khori, the Raghunath Temple and Baba Amarnath Ji, while also enabling easier access to the spiritual tranquillity of Chhoti Kashi. Highlighting the economic dimension of heritage tourism in the region, the Lieutenant Governor said it will act as a powerful multiplier for local handicrafts, hospitality, homestays, transport and food establishments, generating livelihood opportunities for youth and new markets for artisans and small entrepreneurs. The Lieutenant Governor said the restoration and renovation of sacred sites will directly benefit the people of surrounding areas. By improving access to these sacred places and enhancing their grandeur and dignity, we are opening the doors to the divine spiritual experience of Purmandal and Uttervehini for spiritual seekers arriving from different parts of the country and the world. I also firmly believe that this will boost the local economy and empower communities, because every restored brick, every pathway constructed and every tourist who visits this place will contribute directly to the economic prosperity of the people of the region, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the inter-generational significance of the project, stating that when youth walk through the restored corridors of Purmandal and Uttervehini and witness the preservation of centuries-old art and culture, it would instil pride and a stronger connection to their roots. He commended the district administration and all stakeholders involved in the initiative and expressed hope that citizens would join in preserving and protecting these sacred sites for future generations. Our active efforts today to preserve our heritage will bear the fruits of cultural self-confidence, moral strength and social harmony for generations to come. They will protect our young generation from becoming disconnected from its roots and foster a natural reverence for our composite culture and ancient values of life. In the journey towards a developed India, preserving our cultural identity is as important as building highways, digital networks and industrial corridors. Physical development gives momentum to the region and cultural heritage gives society direction and soul, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor reiterated his commitment to strengthen and improve road connectivity to Purmandal and Uttervehini. He also appreciated the efforts of the District Administration Samba in providing land for the establishment of the Mata Devika Ved Pathshala in Purmandal. The Lieutenant Governor stated that the funds for the construction of the Ved Pathshala will soon be sanctioned through the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also launched GCC Gurha Slathia magazine. Chander Prakash Ganga, Member of Legislative Assembly from Vijaypur; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Tejinder Singh, IGP, Jammu; Shridhar Patil, DIG, JSK Range; Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba; K.K. Sidha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; Rajesh Gupta, President, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, J&K; Dr. P.S. Pathania, President, Dharmarth Trust; senior officials, religious heads, prominent citizens, youth and devotees in large number attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.
7-day Autumn session to begin in J&K Assembly on Monday
Srinagar, Sep 20: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly will meet here on Monday for a seven-sitting Autumn session as opposition parties, including the BJP and the PDP, plan to corner the Omar Abdullah government over issues such as jobs and failure to fulfil electoral promises. National Conference MLAs and supporting Independents will meet here later on Sunday to discuss the floor strategy of the treasury benches. NC president Farooq Abdullah, who is not an MLA, will chair the meeting of the legislature party that is headed by Omar Abdullah. Principal opposition party in the JK Legislative Assembly, the BJP, said the National Conference government has failed on all fronts. BJP leaders plan to raise the outsourcing of government jobs, corruption in public offices and the delay in holding panchayat and urban local bodies' polls. The electricity tariff hike and failure to deliver on election promises will also figure in the BJP's floor tactics to corner the government. PDP has said it will focus on unemployment, outsourcing of jobs, the reservation policy, and the regularisation of daily wagers in government service. According to the provisional calendar issued by Speaker of Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, the session will begin with obituary references on September 21, followed by taking up government business the next day. The private members' bills will be discussed on September 24 followed by private members' resolutions the next day. On September 28, the house will again discuss private members' bills followed by government business on 29 and 30.
Ayurveda needs stronger evidence, safety monitoring for market adoption, says CCRAS
Ayurveda needs stronger scientific evidence and safety monitoring for wider adoption. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences stressed this at a symposium. Discussions focused on safety and evidence-based care for non-communicable diseases. The council highlighted its work in public health and traditional medicine. Strengthening pharmacovigilance is crucial for patient safety in Ayurveda.
Alliance with NC wont stop Congress from raising peoples issues: Karra
Srinagar, 20 : Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president and MLA Tariq Hameed Karra on Sunday said the Congress would continue to raise peoples genuine concerns in the Assembly despite being in an alliance with the National Conference (NC). We are in alliance with the National Conference, but that does not mean we will not raise public issues. We will take up genuine concerns and ensure they are expedited, Karra said speaking with reporters in Srinagar, after meeting of Congress legislators ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO). He said the purpose of the Assembly is to raise questions and ensure that issues concerning people are addressed at the earliest, irrespective of whether they were raised by ruling party members or those from the opposition. The purpose of the Assembly is that work should be done as soon as possible. For that, everyone raises questions, whether it is from the ruling party or the opposition party, he said. Karra said the Congress legislature party meeting was held to discuss the upcoming Assembly session. Asked about the Congresss recent differences with the NC over issues including Vande Mataram and the UPI, Karra said the partys position should be viewed in the broader context of its alliance with the NC. You see it from a very myopic view. We are in an alliance and we are on a principled stand. We took that alliance as a principled stand, keeping in mind the larger picture, he said. He said the alliance would not prevent the Congress from raising issues concerning the public. Being in an alliance does not mean that we will not raise peoples issues. Being in an alliance does not mean that we will not talk about peoples legitimate demands. So there is no connection between that and this, Karra said.(KNO)
Why Are My Neck And Face Two Different Colours? Common Causes And What To Do
Generally, our face and neck skin tone is the same, but in some people, one is slightly darker than the other. It is often ignored and dismissed, but it might need a thorough assessment. Lets learn more from a dermatologist.
West Virginia teen builds low-cost bionic hand, selected for national science competition
Ukraine fires over 1,000 drones at Russia, including hundreds launched at Moscow
Ukrainian forces launched a massive overnight barrage of over 1,000 drones, including hundreds aimed at Moscow in what officials called the largest attack on the Russian capital yet, killing two people, injuring 20, and damaging an oil refinery and residential building.
I was in jail. Govt has also been in jail for 2.5 years: Mehraj Malik ahead of Assembly session
Altaf Bukhari attacks Omar, says CM has time for Punjab, Delhi but not J&K issues
Mirwaiz Hails Grand Seerah Competition at Jama Masjid; Backs Five-Day School Week for Children
Rohit Sharma's Favourite Midnight Snack Is A Homemade Treat Anyone Can Make
Rohit Sharma said that playing Test matches often made him nervous, and he would sometimes stay awake all night after a day's play.
Loss of Y Chromosome in Men Might Be an Early Indication of Cancer, Finds Study
A recent study has found that losing Y chromosomes might be a significant warning sign of cancer development in men. Read this article to know more.
Vikrant Massey To Open Real-Life Musafir Cafes In Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand
Actor Vikrant Massey is reportedly planning to open two Musafir Cafes one each in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. They are being designed as replicas of the cafe featured in the Netflix series.
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Doda, Sept 20: The body of a woman was found in the Karara area of Doda district on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the body was spotted by locals, who then informed the police. The official said that soon after receiving the information, a police team reached the spot and took the body into custody. The body has been shifted to the hospital for medico-legal formalities, while efforts are being made to ascertain its identity, the official said. Police have initiated proceedings, while the circumstances surrounding her death are being verified, the official said.(KNO)
MBA Graduate Left Her Corporate Job To Start Capsicum Farming, Now Earns Rs 4 Crore
Pranita Vaman started capsicum farming just before the Covid-19 pandemic started. Now, her business is worth Rs 4 crore.
Fire damages Mata Vaishno Devi helipad terminal in J-K''s Reasi, no casualties
Jammu, Sep 20: A fire partially damaged a helipad terminal in Katra, the base camp for the pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine atop Trukuta hills in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, early Sunday, officials said. No casualties have been reported. The fire broke out in the helipad terminal at 3.15 am apparently due to a short circuit and was controlled within 30 minutes by the joint efforts of staff, security personnel and fire and emergency services personnel, the officials said. The terminal, which is an important transit point for pilgrims visiting the shrine, was closed at the time of the incident, the officials said. They said some computers at the ticket counter and a coffee shop were reduced to ashes in the fire. The extent of the damage is being assessed, the officials said.
Saudi Arabia confirms Yemen's Houthi rebels tried to attack its capital with ballistic missile
The statement by the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis came long after the dawn attempt, which the coalition said was intercepted; residents in Riyadh heard an explosion
US renews blanket West Asia travel alert
Washington, Sep 20: The US State Department renewed a blanket travel alert for Americans in or travelling to the Middle East, warning that the conflict with Iran has the potential to escalate rapidly. Meanwhile, at least 11 US embassies in the region issued a warning on Saturday that travel disruptions are possible.
Turkiye suggests military support for Saudis
Ankara, Sep 20: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan suggested Turkey could provide military support to Saudi Arabia under a recently signed defence pact. Asked in a TV interview about the possibility of the three-member alliance, which also includes Pakistan, engaging in military action against Yemen's Houthis, Fidan said Turkiye would face no difficulty in meeting any military needs. We observe very serious attacks on Saudi Arabia's territorial integrity and sovereignty, he told broadcaster NTV. We have an alliance agreement in place and we stand by our word.
EduChoice PU Principals Summit 2026:300 principals, educators discuss AI, future-ready education
EduChoice organised the PU Principal Summit 2026 at the UAS Alumni Association Convention Hall, Veterinary College Premises, Bellary Road, Bengaluru. As many as 300 principals and academic leaders from Pre-University institutions across North Bengaluru and surrounding areas participated in the summit. The summit was centred on the theme Beyond the Classrooms: Technology, Assessments, Reforms and Career Readiness AI and Beyond, with discussions focused on the changing educational landscape and the need to prepare students for emerging careers and evolving global opportunities. The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by the keynote address by Dr. B. N. Suresh, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awardee, who spoke on Next-Generation Students and Skills and the importance of developing relevant skills among learners for the future. The event was also attended by T. Palaksha, Director, Department of Pre-University Education, along with other distinguished dignitaries and education leaders. P. M. Radha, Managing Director, EduChoice, welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of creating stronger collaboration between educational institutions, technology leaders and industry. The summit featured keynote sessions, panel discussions, collaborative dialogues and best-practice showcases, providing principals and academic administrators with opportunities to exchange ideas and discuss practical approaches to educational transformation. Discussions explored how Artificial Intelligence, digital leadership, innovation, technology-enabled learning and strategic institutional transformation are reshaping educational ecosystems. The sessions also addressed technology in education, evolving assessment practices, education reforms, career readiness and the changing skills required by students. The discussions provided valuable insights for educational leaders on supporting teachers, guiding students and preparing institutions to respond effectively to the changing demands of higher education, technology and employment. The EduChoice PU Principal Summit 2026 served as a platform for education leaders to engage with experts, share institutional experiences and explore approaches to building more future-ready learning environments.
Indias GDP will rise to USD 38 trillion in 20 years: Ajit Doval
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval said on Saturday that Indias GDP would increase from the current USD 4.015 trillion to USD 38 trillion in the next 20 years. Addressing the convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee as the chief guest, Doval said that the students are fortunate to be living in a transformative era where their future holds great promise. Citing the example of Lord Ram, the NSA urged students to be courageous in their lives. He said that sage Vishwamitra chose Lord Ram to annihilate demons because of his courageous nature. Massive changes are taking place in India, and the country is moving towards a magnificent future, the NSA said. As the prime minister has termed the period leading up to 2047 as Amrit Kaal, it is truly a wonderful Amrit Kaal. Indias current GDP stands at USD 4.015 trillion, and it will reach USD 38 trillion in the next 20 years, Doval added. The Current generation is the luckiest with abundant opportunities, unlike past struggles. This is the age of technology, engineering, and innovation, which drives societal growth, with the youth having decades for progress, he said. The NSA further said that decision-making and building ones own doctrine are critical to becoming a leader. You will never become a leader if you are not a decision maker. You have got to make a decision you have got to build your own doctrine, he said. Doval also shared an anecdote from his early career days while posted in Sikkim, recounting how he learned three mantras for success in life from a Sherpa. Doval explained that the first mantra is knowing where one stands on the map; the second is knowing where one needs to go; and the third is knowing the path to get there and come back.
Div Com chairs High-Level Meeting on Traffic Management System in Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 19:Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg today chaired a high-level meeting of the Multidisciplinary Committee / Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to review the progress of various projects and interventions aimed at easing traffic congestion in Srinagar city. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, SSP Traffic, RTO Kashmir, Chief Engineer KPDCL and Executive Engineers of R&B, besides other concerned officers. During the meeting, a detailed review was undertaken regarding the progress of key road infrastructure projects including Development of Natipora to Chanapora road, Development of T-Junction at Natipora crossing, construction of flyover from Shalteng to Parimpora, Construction of footbridge at Pediatric Hospital, Bemina, Construction of underpass at Nowgam, Development of Shopping Complex at Noorbagh, Development of road along Doodhganga River Bank from Barzulla to Sanat Nagar. On the occasion, the Div Com also reviewed the status of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) projects, including identification of 10 additional junctions for installation of ITMS cameras, painting of zebra crossings and stop lines, implementation of IT-based parking system, and status of e-bus charging stations at Zoonimar and Batamaloo. He also reviewed the Action Taken Report submitted by R&B, SSCL, RTO and Traffic Police on the decisions taken in previous meetings. The Div Com fixed fresh timelines for the concerned departments to achieve tangible progress. He directed SSCL and SSP Traffic to implement stop-line interventions at identified junctions within 10 days. He further directed Commissioner SSCL to hand over control room to the Traffic Police for augmenting deployment of traffic personnel to monitor the Traffic System. The Div Com directed that the e-bus charging station at Batamaloo shall be made operational within ten days. He also directed SSCL for completion of 72 bus stops under Module-A by 31st October 2026. He further directed SE R&B and SE I&FC to conduct a joint inspection for development of the Lasjan Bund Road.
Trade with Tradition: UPs cultural Mahakumbh to be showcased before global guests
A variety of cultural programmes will be organised at the UP International Trade Show from September 25 to 29 of 2026 to present Uttar Pradeshs industrial, trade and cultural identity on a global platform. As per the official handout issued here, through the efforts of the Yogi government, Uttar Pradesh is getting an opportunity to present its rich cultural heritage before the world alongside investment, trade and tourism. Entrepreneurs, investors and visitors arriving from India and abroad at the Trade Show will get a glimpse of the states folk arts, classical music, dance and cultural traditions. The cultural programmes at the Trade Show will begin on September 25 with conch-shell blowing and Vedic Manglacharan. The programme will commence with a performance by Vishal Kumar of Varanasi. This will be followed by instrumental music by Pt. Chetan Joshi of Noida, Kathak dance by Aloknisha Srivastava of Lucknow, Dedhiya folk dance by Purnima of Prayagraj and a bhajan performance by Aarti Khetpal of Vrindavan, which will attract audiences. On September 26, a Pakhawaj duet, Bhojpuri folk singing, Kathak, folk dance from Mathura and a Star Night will be organised. Pt. Ravishankar Upadhyay and Pt. Rishi Shankar Upadhyay of Delhi will perform in the Pakhawaj duet. Kusum Pandey of Mirzapur and Avnish Tiwari of Jaunpur will perform Bhojpuri folk songs, while Maryada Kulshreshtha of Noida will perform Kathak. Seema Mawal of Mathura will present a folk dance, and Nishtha Sharma of Sultanpur will perform at the Star Night. On September 27, saxophone instrumental music, bhajan/folk singing, Rai folk dance from Jhansi, Bharatanatyam and a Star Night will be organised. On September 28, a percussion ensemble by Bhatkhande Sanskriti University, Lucknow, Alha singing by Jitendra Chaurasia of Mahoba, Kathak, Tharu tribal dance from Pilibhit and a Sufi Night by Roopali Joggu of Sultanpur will be organised. On September 29, the cultural programmes will conclude with a sitar recital by Padma Shri Pt. Shivnath Mishra of Varanasi, ghazal singing by Kamal Khan of Lucknow, Kathak by Mitali Saini of Ghaziabad, a choreographed presentation of Kathak of India/UP and a Star Night. The showcasing of folk arts and classical traditions from different regions of the state at the Trade Show, organised on the initiative of the Yogi government, will highlight Uttar Pradeshs cultural diversity. Performances by artists from Kashi, Mathura, Vrindavan, Bundelkhand, Awadh, Purvanchal and the Terai region will introduce visitors to the states vibrant and diverse culture. Alongside industrial and trade activities, the cultural performances will present the UP International Trade Show as a confluence of art, culture and entrepreneurship.
Khurshid Ganai calls for restoration of statehood for effective governance
Srinagar, Sep 19:Former IAS officer and chairman of the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) Khurshid Ahmad Ganai said there was a perception among people that governance in Jammu and Kashmir had become less effective since the region lost its statehood. He said administrative constraints had left the elected government with limited powers to act, contributing to what he described as a lackluster performance. Speaking at the second Mohammad Shafi Pandit Memorial Lecture, Ganai said many people in Jammu and Kashmir were increasingly critical of the performance of the elected government. Unfortunately, many people these days in Jammu and Kashmir lament the rather lackluster performance of the elected government, Ganai said. While the continued denial of statehood was a serious handicap for the elected government, Ganai said the problems of governance extended beyond the issue of constitutional status. We wish the elected government would wake up to its responsibilities, he said. Ganai said the GCC had made several suggestions to the government over the past few years on improving governance and addressing issues facing the people. Unfortunately, the speed at which implementation happens is not always very encouraging, he said. He said restoration of statehood was important for effective governance in Jammu and Kashmir and called for it to be done at the earliest. Paying tribute to Mohammad Shafi Pandit, Ganai recalled his contributions to public administration and his close association with Srinagar city. Ganai said Pandit had been deeply involved with the city's affairs and was keen to address its problems. He also credited Pandit with introducing an online system for transferring the salaries of government employees directly into their bank accounts. That was an important contribution of Shafi Sahab, Ganai said. Describing Pandit as an innovative administrator, Ganai said his contribution lay not merely in introducing new initiatives but also in finding different ways of doing existing things. Innovation is not always doing new things, but doing the same things differently. I think Shafi Sahab had this capability, he said. Ganai said Pandit had demonstrated this approach throughout his career, either by introducing new initiatives or by finding more effective ways of implementing existing ones. Speaking on the occasion, C. Phunsog, former Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir said Pandit was an inspiration for the people of the Valley and the state as the whole. He said that Pandit was an outstanding combination of good human being and civil servant. Phunsog highlighted Pandits contribution to public administration, his innovative approach to governance and his deep commitment to serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir. B.R. Sharma, former IAS officer, who also served as the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir said Pandit occupied a distinctive position in the administrative history of Jammu and Kashmir. Although he did not have the privilege of having many conversations with Pandit, Sharma said he was among the few officers from the region to be directly recruited into the Indian Administrative Service and went on to hold several important positions during his career. Prominent among others who spoke on the occasion include Lateef u Zamaan Deva, Zarif Ahmad Zareef, Dr Farooq Ahmad Peer and others.
Agriculture Deptt conducts 1st batch of Karmayogi Kartavya Karyakram
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Kashmir, conducted the first batch of the Karmayogi Kartavya Karyakram (KKK) at the Meeting Hall of the Directorate of Agriculture, Lal Mandi, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of Director Agriculture Kashmir and Farmers Welfare Sartaj Ahmad Shah. The one-day capacity-building programme was conducted by Dr. Qazi Showkat Ashraf, State Master Trainer and Deputy Director (Central). It focused on strengthening behavioural competencies, professional conduct, public service orientation and citizen centric approaches among government officials. The programme is being implemented under Mission Karmayogi, the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB), which aims to promote a professional, responsive and citizen centric civil service through continuous learning and competency-based capacity building.
SKUAST-K KVK Srinagar launches Ashirwad Ka Diya initiative
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) launched the Ashirwad Ka Diya initiative and kick-started a five-day training programme on natural farming for field functionaries under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). The initiative was launched at KVK Srinagar, led by Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, in the presence of G.N. Var, Chief Patron, PSAJK; Dr S.A. Simnani, Head, KVK Srinagar, scientists and other officials. Farmers, FPO representatives, Krishi Sakhis, FMTs and FWs also participated. The five-day training is being conducted for Krishi Sakhis, FMTs and FWs associated with seven Natural Farming clusters in Harwan and Khonmoh blocks of Srinagar district under the NMNF. Dr Simnani, in his introductory remarks, outlined the significance of natural farming and the need to promote sustainable agricultural practices focused on soil health and microbial diversity. Hands-on training is being provided by the experts from SKUAST-K, including Dr Sumiti Narayan and Dr Aasima Rafiq, on the preparation of natural farming bio-inputs using livestock and on-farm natural resources. Dr Haseeb, Dr Showket and Dr Owais are covering the objectives and practices of natural farming for sustainable and resilient agricultural production systems. The Ashirwad Ka Diya initiative is being undertaken as part of the nationwide Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, being observed from September 17 to October 17, with a focus on community participation and service towards farmers and rural communities.
Motorcyclist killed, pillion rider injured in Sopore road mishap
Sopore, Sep 19:A motorcyclist was killed while another sustained injuries after their motorcycle collided with a Tata Matador Video Coach at Botingoo area of Sopore in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday. The deceased has been identified as Mohinoor Mir Ali, a resident of West Bengal, who was reportedly working as a goldsmith in Srinagar. The injured motorcyclist has been identified as Minhaj Mir Ali. According to officials, the motorcycle bearing registration number JK01BC-6080 collided with a Tata Bus Video Coach number (JK05N-9576), which was reportedly travelling towards Sopore from Bandipora. Following the accident, a team from Police Station Warpora rushed to the spot and shifted both persons to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Sopore for medical treatment. However, doctors declared Mohinoor Mir Ali brought dead upon arrival, while the injured rider was admitted for treatment. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the accident.
Connectivity key to Indias global competitiveness: Rahul Sahai
Transportation and mobility have evolved beyond the movement of people and goods to become critical drivers of Indias competitiveness, productivity and integration with global markets, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, Rahul Sahai, said while addressing the ICC Global Business Summit Edition 2 here. Sahai was speaking during a session on Transportation & Mobility for National Competitiveness Next Gen Mobility: Connecting India to Global Markets held at Taj Palace, New Delhi. The session brought together senior representatives from the government, railways, logistics, infrastructure and international organisations to deliberate on the role of next-generation mobility and connectivity in strengthening Indias position in global markets. The session featured Dr Manoj Singh, Member (Operations & Business Development), Railway Board; Ateesh Kumar Singh, IRTS, Additional Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT); and Kanishka Sethia, Chairman, ICC National Logistics & Supply Chain Committee and Director & CEO, Western Carriers (India) Limited. The discussion was moderated by Sanjiv Garg, former Additional Member, Railway Board and Secretary General, Chartered Institute of Logistics and TransportIndia. Other panellists included Vicky Makrigianni, Director, International Relations, Hellenic Federation of Enterprises, Greece; Keku Bomi Gazder, Managing Director & CEO, Aviapro Logistic Services Pvt. Ltd.; Shobhit Bhatnagar, IRTS, Director (Operations & Business Development), Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL); Abhijeet Sinha, Programme Director Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) & National Highways for Electric Vehicles (NHEV); and Soumya Chattopadhyay, Lead Programs Officer, Asian Development Bank, India Resident Mission. In his concluding remarks, Sahai emphasised the need for faster logistics, multimodal connectivity, modern warehousing, technology-enabled supply chains and sustainable mobility solutions to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of Indian businesses, particularly MSMEs. He said seamless connectivity would be increasingly important for enabling businesses to access wider markets, reduce logistics costs and integrate more effectively with domestic and international supply chains. Highlighting developments in Jammu and Kashmir, Sahai said improved highways, tunnels, rail connectivity and logistics infrastructure were opening up new markets and creating opportunities for investment, tourism and local businesses. He particularly underlined the potential of improved connectivity to strengthen the competitiveness of MSMEs in the region by providing them better access to markets and supply chains. Indias next phase of growth will be driven not simply by how much we produce, but by how efficiently we connectour industries to markets, our regions to opportunities, and India to the world, Sahai said. At the conclusion of the session, Sahai felicitated the speakers and dignitaries and thanked them for sharing their insights on transportation, mobility and logistics. He also congratulated the ICC leadership and Secretariat for organising the second edition of the ICC Global Business Summit at Taj Palace, New Delhi.
JKBOSE consults experts on vocational courses
Srinagar, Sep 19:The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) held a consultative meeting Saturday to discuss developing vocational courses aligned with local needs and emerging employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting at the JKBOSE headquarters in Bemina was part of the Boards process for seeking dual recognition from the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and developing a new vocational course in agriculture. The consultation brought together experts from vocational education and agriculture, including Dr. T.N. Giri, director, Vocational Education, National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), and Prof. V.S. Mehrotra, head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu, and the Department of Agriculture, J&K Mehrotra, head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu and the Department of Agriculture, J&K. Addressing the meeting, the JKBOSE chairman said the Board was among the few boards in the country to have received a Letter of Intent from NCVET, describing it as an important step toward strengthening vocational and skill-based education in schools. He said the Board was focusing on sectors with significant potential in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly agriculture and tourism, to help students develop skills relevant to local employment and livelihood opportunities. In his welcome address, JKBOSE Director Academics Dr. Parveen Singh stressed the need to strengthen links between school education, skills and job-market requirements. He said vocational courses should remain relevant to the socio-economic context of Jammu and Kashmir and align with the National Education Policy 2020, which calls for greater integration of vocational education, experiential learning and skill development into mainstream schooling. Experts discussed curriculum development, competency-based learning, sectoral and industry relevance, practical training, assessment and certification. The participants also stressed the need for courses that respond to emerging employment opportunities and promote local relevance, employment and entrepreneurship. The consultation is expected to contribute to JKBOSEs submission for dual recognition under NCVET and the development of a structured vocational education framework for schools across Jammu and Kashmir.
FICCI FLO delegation calls on LG Manoj Sinha
A delegation of FICCI FLO J&K and Ladakh, led by its Chairperson Varsha Bansal, and Senior Vice Chairperson, Rupika Sahai, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, today. The delegation briefed the Lieutenant Governor about FICCI FLOs upcoming activities and initiatives aimed at women empowerment and entrepreneurship.
CUK holds lecture on Igniting Minds, Empowering Bharat
Ganderbal, Sep 19:Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) organised an expert lecture on Igniting Minds, Empowering Bharat: The True Power of Education as part of its ongoing 100-day capacity-building and faculty induction programme for newly appointed teachers at its Tulmulla campus. The programme was convened by Prof. Sandhya, coordinator of the induction programme, who welcomed Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. RavinderNath, senior officers, faculty members and participants. In her address, Prof. Sandhya thanked keynote speaker B.R. Shankaranand, Akhil Bharatiya Sangathan Mantri of the Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal, for interacting with the newly appointed teachers. She said the interaction would provide faculty members an opportunity to broaden their academic perspectives and understand the wider dimensions of the teaching profession. She highlighted the vision of India emerging as Vishwaguru and the role of teachers and educational institutions in realising it. Prof. Sandhya also referred to the Bharatiya Shikshan Mandals role in promoting education rooted in Bharatiya traditions, values and Bharatiyata. She stressed the importance of organic and conceptual approaches to pedagogy through programmes such as NadiKoJaao, Pariwar Bane Pathshala and RFRF. Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. RavinderNath said the university was working to keep pace with the changing national and global education landscape and create an academic ecosystem responsive to the aspirations of learners and emerging societal needs. He said the university had taken significant steps towards implementing the National Education Policy-2020, particularly in academic flexibility, student engagement, curriculum review, youth empowerment and learner-centred approaches to higher education. RavinderNath highlighted competency-based education, skill development, reskilling and upskilling, design thinking, innovation and the promotion of Indian Knowledge Systems as important areas of contemporary higher education. He also stressed the need to empower young people through education and provide an academic environment that encourages creativity, inquiry, innovation and responsible citizenship. Delivering the keynote address, Shankaranand urged teachers to dream and make sustained efforts to turn those dreams into reality. He said a teachers responsibility went beyond imparting information or completing a syllabus, urging educators to move beyond the philosophy of live and let live and embrace the larger responsibility of live and make others live by creating opportunities for the growth, development and empowerment of others. He stressed that teachers must remain lifelong learners and that learning should ultimately lead to giving. Shankaranand also emphasised the importance of yoga in contemporary education and suggested that it should form an integral part of CUKs academic environment to promote physical growth, mental peace and holistic well-being among students, scholars and faculty members. The session was moderated by Dean, School of Business Studies, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, who also proposed the vote of thanks.
KCCI demands special OTS for stressed borrowers, halt to J&K Bank recovery notices
A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga and comprising Past President A.M. Mattoo and Ashiq Shangloo, has raised a series of concerns with Jammu and Kashmir Bank over regional credit deployment, interest rates, recruitment, governance, lending procedures and recovery notices issued to stressed borrowers. The delegation met J&K Bank Managing Director and CEO Amitava Chatterjee and submitted a detailed 11-page Memorandum outlining concerns of the business community and seeking a comprehensive Special One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for eligible stressed borrowers. KCCI acknowledged the banks strong recent financial performance, including a record net profit of Rs 2,363.47 crore in FY 2025-26. However, the Chamber said its concern was the pace and pattern of credit growth and the need to ensure adequate attention to J&K. KCCI sought dedicated representation for the Kashmir business community on the J&K Bank Board, saying regional economic perspectives should be adequately reflected in the banks governance and stakeholder engagement. On recruitment, the Chamber referred to the proposed recruitment of around 1,400 posts and urged that the drive, as well as future recruitments, be structured on a divisional basis with equal allocation between Jammu and Kashmir provinces. KCC&I demanded that the Bank increase its Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio to bring it at par with the national level, thereby ensuring greater deployment of deposits mobilised in the region towards productive lending and supporting local economic and business activity. A key issue raised during the interaction was the requirement of net-worth certificates for renewal of cash-credit and other credit limits. KCCI said the requirement added to the compliance burden on businesses and was not commonly applied by other banks. During the interaction, Managing Director and CEO Amitava Chatterjee assured the delegation that directions would be issued so that borrowers would not be asked to furnish net-worth certificates for renewal of their credit limits. The Chamber also sought faster sanction and renewal of working-capital and cash-credit limits, particularly for MSMEs and small businesses, along with lending products aligned with the seasonal cash flows of tourism, hospitality, horticulture, handicrafts, transport and trade. On interest rates, KCCI said advances extended outside J&K were being offered at lower rates than comparable advances within the region. It also said other public-sector and private-sector banks operating in J&K were offering credit facilities at lower rates compared to J&K Bank. The Chamber sought greater transparency and parity in interest-rate benchmarking across geographies. The Chamber called for greater use of the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to facilitate collateral-free lending to eligible MSMEs and sought proportionate collateral and guarantee requirements. It also raised concerns over processing, maintenance and other charges, seeking prior disclosure and greater transparency. Special OTS for stressed borrowers The Chamber renewed its demand for a Special OTS scheme, saying more than two years had passed since discussions on the issue began with the bank. KCCI said repeated assurances had been given that such a scheme was under consideration, but stressed borrowers whose accounts had turned NPAs were still awaiting a concrete, time-bound announcement. KCCI sought an SBI-type, transparent and formula-based settlement mechanism for genuinely stressed borrowers. It clarified that the demand was not for a blanket loan waiver, but for a structured mechanism under which eligible borrowers could settle their accounts and exit prolonged litigation and recovery proceedings. The Chamber cited prolonged disruptions faced by businesses in J&K, including curfews, shutdowns, violence, communication restrictions, the 2014 floods, the 2016 unrest, the 2019 constitutional changes and the COVID-19 pandemic. KCCI said its proposed OTS should include clear eligibility criteria, reasonable timelines and revival-oriented provisions, along with a temporary pause on coercive recovery for prima facie eligible applicants. KCCI seeks halt to recovery notices A major concern raised by KCCI was the frequent publication of recovery notices against borrowers in newspapers. The Chamber said repeated publication of such notices was creating serious social and reputational difficulties for affected entrepreneurs and their families. It said such notices could cause social embarrassment and further damage the standing of otherwise genuine borrowers within the business community. KCCI has therefore urged J&K Bank to keep such recovery notices and other coercive recovery measures in abeyance for a reasonable period in cases involving genuine and viable MSMEs facing temporary financial stress. More specifically, the Chamber has sought that recovery notices against such borrowers be kept in abeyance until a comprehensive OTS scheme is announced.
The fading sound of the hammer: Kashmirs copper artisans fight for survival
In the heritage markets of Srinagar, the sound of a hammer hitting copper has been part of the citys character for generations. In Zaina Kadal, Aali Kadal, Khanyar and other parts of Shehr-e-Khaas, craftsmen still sit in small workshops, shaping copper sheets into samovars, trays, bowls, deghs and other utensils. But the trade is no longer what it used to be. Traditional copperware is facing growing competition from machine-made products, and those working in the industry say the impact is being felt most by the people who depend on their hands and tools to make a living. Jan Mohammad, Chairman of the Copper Association Kashmir, said the issue should not be viewed only through production or market figures. Copperware is facing an onslaught from machine-made copperware. Beyond statistics, there is a story of copper workers whose earnings and jobs have reduced, he said. According to Jan Mohammad, a copper worker earns around Rs 500 to Rs 600 a day. For many artisans, however, even this modest income is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain as demand for handmade products comes under pressure from cheaper and faster machine-made alternatives. The problem is particularly serious because copperwork is not a single occupation. It supports a chain of specialised craftsmen. There is the Khar, who shapes and works the metal, the Naqash, who does the engraving, the Zarcod, who works on gilding, the Roshangar, who polishes the finished article, and the Charakgar, who carries out finishing work. For generations, these skills have been passed from one family member to another. Nazir Ahmad, a fourth-generation coppersmith from Srinagar, is among those who learnt the craft in this traditional way. He says his first lessons came from watching his father and grandfather at work. I learned by watching my father and grandfather work, he says. For craftsmen like Shabir, copperwork is not simply a job. It is a skill acquired over years, often beginning with small tasks in the workshop before an apprentice gradually learns to handle the tools and master the craft. The tools themselves are part of that tradition. Hammers, stakes and anvils, along with chisels, punches, files and other implements, are used to shape and finish the copper. The work is slow and requires considerable manual effort. That is also where handmade copperware finds itself at a disadvantage. A machine can produce articles faster and in larger numbers. A craftsman, by contrast, needs time to shape, smooth, engrave and finish every piece. For an artisan whose income depends on daily production, the difference can directly affect earnings. Jan Mohammad said consumers also need to be able to distinguish between handmade and machine-made products. He referred to QR-based labelling for handmade products as one possible way of helping buyers identify genuine handcrafted copperware. He also pointed to the legal and policy measures taken against machine-made copperware, saying the J&K Assembly Act has banned machine-made copperware. The industry, however, believes enforcement and proper identification of products are crucial if such measures are to translate into benefits for traditional artisans. There is also a difference in the way the two products are perceived by craftsmen. Asked about handmade and machine-made copperware, Jan Mohammad said handmade products are considered more durable, while machine-made copperware is comparatively soft and more prone to breaking. The claim reflects the trades longstanding argument that the value of handmade copperware lies not only in its appearance but also in the workmanship that goes into it. For Kashmir, copperware has always had a place beyond the marketplace. The samovar remains closely associated with Kashmiri hospitality. Copper trays, bowls and other utensils are used during weddings, religious occasions and family gatherings. Decorative pieces, meanwhile, continue to be valued for their engraving and traditional designs. Household copper utensils are also traditionally subjected to Kalai, the process of coating them with tin, which gives them a distinctive appearance and finish. Yet cultural demand has not necessarily translated into secure livelihoods for the artisans. The trade is also struggling to attract young workers. The work is physically demanding, workshops can be hot and dusty, and the earnings are not always enough to persuade younger people to choose copperwork over other occupations. As a result, an important part of the traditional skill base is slowly becoming thinner. The concern, therefore, is not simply that fewer copper articles are being sold. It is that fewer people may remain who know how to make them. In Khanyar, where families have traditionally been associated with the craft, this change is particularly significant. What was once a common family occupation is increasingly becoming a specialised trade practised by a shrinking number of craftsmen. The copper industrys struggle is consequently about two things at once: the survival of a traditional Kashmiri craft and the survival of the livelihoods attached to it. The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu and Kashmir, has introduced QR-based labels for traditional copperware to help consumers verify the authenticity of handmade products and distinguish them from machine-made copies. The initiative is aimed at protecting Kashmirs traditional copper craft, improving traceability and ensuring that genuine artisans receive recognition for their workmanship. The QR labels can also help buyers identify products that meet the departments prescribed standards, strengthening confidence in authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.
Potushaibridge in Kupwara permanently restored at Rs 61.95 lakh
Kupwara, Sep 19:The Potushaibridge in Lolab has been permanently restored at a cost of Rs 61.95 lakh, providing relief to residents who had long been seeking its restoration. The restoration work was inaugurated by Lolab MLA QaysarJamshaid Lone, who said the bridge would improve connectivity for residents of Potushai and adjoining areas. Lone said providing durable and quality infrastructure remained a priority and that efforts were underway to address long-pending public demands across the constituency. Residents welcomed the restoration, saying the bridge was vital for daily movement and connectivity. They expressed gratitude to the MLA for taking up the long-pending demand.
MLA Baig seeks independent safety assessment of proposed Baramulla-Uri rail alignment
Baramulla, Sep 19:Jammu and Kashmir lawmaker Javid Hassan Baig has sought an independent assessment of the geological, geotechnical and seismic risks along the proposed Baramulla-Uri railway alignment, urging authorities to defer finalisation of the route until the assessment is completed. In a private members resolution admitted by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Baig urged the Government of India to keep the proposed alignment from Kanispora toward Khanpora and Sheeri in abeyance pending an independent assessment of its geological and structural safety. The resolution calls for a detailed assessment of slope stability, soil-bearing capacity, liquefaction potential, seismic vulnerability, drainage conditions and susceptibility to landslides. Baig has also sought that the alignment be finalised only after competent technical authorities establish and certify the geological and structural suitability of the corridor and its long-term safety. The resolution was admitted by the Speaker under Rule 179 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. According to a communication issued by the Assembly Secretariat on Sept. 15, balloting for the resolution was scheduled for Sept. 18 at the office of the Secretary, Legislative Assembly. Speaking to Greater Kashmir , Baig said the proposed alignment passes through a slide-prone area and called for comprehensive geological investigations before the route is finalised. Everyone knows that it is a slide-prone area. The authorities need to carry out comprehensive soil testing and other geological investigations so that an entire population is not subjected to some serious issue, Baig said. He said his concerns were not against connectivity but focused on ensuring that the proposed infrastructure takes into account the geological characteristics and safety requirements of the area. The proposed Baramulla-Uri rail link is intended to strengthen connectivity in north Kashmir. Baigs resolution seeks an independent evaluation of the corridors geological, geotechnical and seismic conditions, along with drainage and landslide risks, before construction-related decisions are taken.
Ladakh leaders call off padyatra to mark Sep 24 Leh incident
One year after tragic violence resulting in the death of four civilians during protests, the Himalayan region of Ladakh is preparing to mark the anniversary with a series of solemn memorial observances. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)the joint coalition spearheading the agitation for statehood and Constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedulehave scheduled a symbolic march and tribute ceremonies for September 23 and 24. The events will honour the four young civilians who lost their lives on September 24, 2025, during clashes with security forces in Leh. Organisers had originally planned a week-long foot march (Padyatra) spanning across the rugged terrain between Kargil and Leh. However, citing harsh weather, plummeting nocturnal temperatures, and delicate political considerations, political leaders modified the schedule. Climate activist and member Apex Body Leh, Sonam Wangchuk, said that calling off the protests was due to the prevailing weather conditions and some warmth in politics. Due to prevailing weather conditions with cold nights, we're making it into a symbolic 20 Km march on 23rd September. followed by martyrs day event on 24th. Inconvenience regretted, look forward to joining you and marching together, Sonam Wangchuk said in a post on X. The upcoming observances mark one of the darkest chapters in the recent history of the Union Territory. On September 24 last year, a long-standing peaceful movement demanding statehood, land rights and constitutional safeguards, turned violent. Protesters gathered in Leh, leading to clashes with security personnel, stone-pelting, and arson resulting in the deaths of four youths and injuring nearly 90 others in the alleged security forces action. In the aftermath, prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA), and the region was plunged into months of political tension. On September 23, activist Sonam Wangchuk, joined by Apex body and community leaders, will lead a condensed 20-kilometer symbolic march through the Leh valley. A similar peaceful march will be held in Kargil under the banner of KDA. On September 24, a dedicated Martyrs day event will be held in Leh and replicated across major towns in Kargil. The tribute programs on September 24 will include interfaith prayers, candlelit vigils, a moment of silence across major town centres, and wreath-laying ceremonies to honour the four deceased men. Beyond the memorial services, local leaders are framing the day as a rally for justice. While the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh recently announced financial assistance packages for affected families, representative bodies in both districts have criticized the compensation as inadequate. Speaking ahead of the anniversary, political representatives from both the LAB and KDA reiterated their key demands including Judicial Inquiry - a formal, independent judicial probe into the circumstances that led to security forces opening fire on protesters. They also demanded the complete withdrawal of all criminal cases registered against local youth arrested during the 2025 unrest. Restitution ranging from Rs 1 Cr to Rs 1.5 Cr for families of the deceased, alongside enhanced support for the severely injured is another key demand. Meanwhile, arrangements are being put in place across both Leh and Kargil districts to maintain order during the gatherings. Civil society organisations have issued appeals for calm, emphasising that the September 24 observances should reflect peace, dignity, and unity across the cold-desert region.
Islamic Global School holds inter-school art competition at Emporium Park
Srinagar, Sep 19:Islamic Global School Saturday organised an inter-school art competition at Emporium Park, Srinagar, under the theme Kashmir Through My Eyes. The event brought together young artists from different schools, providing them a creative platform to express their thoughts, imagination, and individual perspectives through art. Students participated with great enthusiasm and showcased their artistic abilities through colourful and meaningful artworks inspired by Kashmir. The competition aimed to encourage creativity, imagination, artistic expression, and healthy competition among students. It also provided an opportunity for students from different schools to interact, gain exposure, and learn from one another. The theme Kashmir Through My Eyes allowed participants to portray Kashmir through their own perspectives, highlighting its beauty, culture, heritage, and surroundings. The serene setting of Emporium Park, surrounded by Chinar trees, added a special charm to the event and complemented the theme beautifully. The competition concluded successfully; students displayed remarkable creativity, confidence, and enthusiasm throughout the event.
From Lal Ded to Article 370: CM Sainis Kashmir pitch to Pandits in Haryana
From the legacy of Kashmirs mystic poet Lal Ded to the political changes following the abrogation of Article 370, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday framed his governments outreach to Kashmiri Pandits around culture, welfare and the communitys post-migration concerns. Addressing a gathering in Gurugram to mark the 705th birth anniversary of Mata Lalleshwari, popularly known as Lal Ded, Saini highlighted what he described as measures taken by the Haryana government for Kashmiri Pandit families, including 10 per cent reservation in education for their children. The Haryana government has provided 10 per cent reservation in education for the children of Kashmiri Pandits in Haryana, Saini said. The Chief Minister said a sizeable Kashmiri Pandit population lives across Haryana, particularly in Gurugram, Faridabad and Panchkula, besides Ambala, Karnal, Panipat and Bahadurgarh. Saini also referred to the allocation of plots in Bahadurgarh to Kashmiri Pandit families who had purchased land decades ago. The allotment followed a long-running dispute involving land acquired by displaced families in the early 1990s. Beyond education and land, Saini said his government was working towards creating housing and employment opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits living in Haryana. The Chief Minister also linked his governments approach towards the community to the broader political changes in Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, he credited Prime Minister Narendra Modis government with strengthening what he described as the unity and integration of the country. The event was organised by the Kashmiri Hindu Prakosth and Bani Mandir. A delegation of the Kashmiri Hindu Prakosth had met Saini earlier this month and invited him to the programme, raising issues concerning the Kashmiri community and seeking government intervention. According to the organisers, the choice of Lal Deds birth anniversary provided a cultural backdrop to an address that largely focused on the contemporary concerns of Kashmiri Pandits living outside the Valley. These sorts of functions give us an opportunity to connect to our community and the roots, Pankaj Dhar, an organiser said. Lal Ded, also known as Lalleshwari, occupies a central place in Kashmirs medieval literary and spiritual tradition. Her Kashmiri vaakhs remain an important part of the regions cultural heritage and are associated with the broader Shaivite and Sufi traditions of Kashmir.
Government to examine possibility of 5-day week for schools
Srinagar, Sep 19:In a latest development, Jammu and Kashmir will work out the possibility of introducing a five-day week for children in government and private schools. The move comes after the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Pampore constituency, HasnainMasoodi raised the issue about the less leisure time available for the students and decided to raise the issue in the Autumn session of J&K Assembly scheduled from September 21, 2026. Talking to Greater Kashmir , MLA Masoodi said he will raise the issue, concerning lakhs of schoolchildren, in the upcoming session of the Legislative Assembly. My recommendations will be that there should be only five working days for schoolchildren, while Saturday and Sunday should be holidays so that they get judicious leisure time at home, he told Greater Kashmir . He said that society has been debating and talking about issues with regard to men and women while nobody talks about the children One day (Sunday) is not enough for them. On Sunday, students again prepare themselves for the next working day (Monday) and they don't have time for themselves. Even most students get huge homework which consumes their single off-day (Sunday), he added. He said a five-day week was routine in many countries and adopting it in Jammu and Kashmir will benefit the overall well-being of the students. Many countries including J&K have shifted from normal written exams to summative assessment for students up to class 10th. So, shifting to five-day week will benefit them as well, MLA Pampore said. He said schoolchildren were already overburdened with heavy school bags which get heavier with each passing year. They get consumed in a long week and need enough free time as well. It is not only about closing schools for two days but I believe that it is necessary for the mental health of students. We should respect their leisure time as well, he added. When asked if the issue would spark a debate among stakeholders, the NC MLA from Pampore said parents would want their kids to join schools even on Sunday to have their own leisure time. If we listen to the parents, they want their kids to go to school on Sunday as well so that they have good leisure time. But we have to think about students as well, he told Greater Kashmir . In wake of this, minister for education Sakina Itoo said the proposal put forth by the MLA HasnainMasoodi will be sent to the Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK), Director School Education Jammu (DSEJ) besides the Director Colleges J&K as well. The Directors will be asked to examine the proposal and see the possibility of implementing it, Itoo said while addressing a gathering. She further said that MLA Masoodi claimed children get suffocated by carrying heavy school bags and do not get free time after reaching home. The students, as per the MLA (sahab) do not get tired by studying but by carrying school bags on their shoulders. He suggested there should be two holidays a week. We will examine it and decide accordingly, she added.
Time to correct historical oversights: Lt Governor
The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday called for revival of India's civilisational memory and honouring of custodians of culture. He was addressing a gathering in Jammu, marking the unveiling of the statue of Acharya Abhinavagupt, the launch of the new logo of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the release of two books and the inauguration of a welfare scheme for artists and writers. The Lieutenant Governor described the occasion as the beginning of a cultural renaissance reawakening the soul of the Union Territory. He noted that the welfare scheme for artists and writers, conceived in 202122 and formalised in August 2024, reflected the nation's gratitude towards those who preserved collective memory through stories, songs and priceless traditions. I believe that artists and writers are not only creators but also guardians of societys collective memory. They have given words to Jammu and Kashmirs priceless culture, voice to the emotions of society, and have shouldered the duty of carrying this Union Territorys heritage to future generations. Therefore, honouring them is nothing less than honouring our own civilization, our own culture, and our own identity, the Lieutenant Governor said. He paid tribute to Acharya Abhinavagupt as a philosopher, spiritual practitioner, poet, and master of aesthetics whose profound contributions to Kashmir Shaivism and Pratyabhijna philosophy remained confined to limited scholarly circles for centuries. He termed this neglect not merely academic but a damage to civilizational memory, and called for correcting historical oversights so India's youth can access their intellectual heritage. The time has now come to correct these historical oversights. This task must be inspired by our commitment to truth, because our youth have the right to know how vast, how ancient, and how connected to the global community is the intellectual depth of the civilization they inherit, he said. Highlighting Abhinavagupts seminal work Tantraloka and his theory of rasa, the Lieutenant Governor said that art serves as a doorway to inner awakening, reflecting the unique Indian vision where art, life, and the pursuit of truth are inseparable. LG Sinha congratulated Dr. Vaidehi Taman on her book Abhinavagupt: The Voice of Eternal Shiva and Akriti Sharma on Raghunath Temple, Channi Parat: Hidden Heritage of Sunderbani, describing both works as vital contributions connecting Jammu Kashmir's heritage to India's shared civilizational consciousness. He noted that the Raghunath temple at Channi Parat, begun under Maharaja Gulab Singh and completed under Maharaja Ranbir Singh, exemplifies Jammu Kashmir's rich tangible heritage. I want the new generation to remember that our ancestors built this nation with their wisdom, with their questions, with their experiences, and with their continuous search for truth. It is our sacred responsibility to ensure that this knowledge does not fade from memory. Our duty is to understand that knowledge, honour it, pass it on to new generations, and preserve it for the times to come, the Lieutenant Governor said. He highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi new energy has been infused into Jammu Kashmir's Economic and cultural landscape. He called upon universities, schools, and cultural institutions to introduce young people to thinkers like Abhinavagupt as living voices relevant to contemporary questions of consciousness and creativity, and urged greater private and institutional support for research and publishing in this field. We must encourage writers like Dr Vaidehi Taman and Akriti Sharma, who, through the difficult and patient work of research, study, and interpretation, can build a bridge between ancient heritage, knowledge, and modern understanding. Such work should not only be a matter of appreciation; it must also receive our active encouragement and institutional support, he said. The Lieutenant Governor expressed hope that the two books would reach readers across the country and that the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages would continue driving the region's cultural renaissance forward. We must place the historical facts in the right perspective with confidence. We must adopt the same curiosity and the same honest scholarship that characterized our ancestors, he said. Arvind Gupta, Member of Legislative Assembly from Jammu West; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Shakti Kumar Pathak, Director Anti-Corruption Bureau, J&K; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Tejinder Singh, IGP, Jammu; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA; Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL; eminent literary personalities; prominent citizens from different walks of life and attended the unveiling ceremony.
Pahalgam shining again, tourism must be promoted: Farooq Abdullah
Pahalgam, Sep 19: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said Pahalgam was showing signs of revival, with visitors from across India and abroad arriving for a Rotary International golf tournament. By the grace of Allah, Pahalgam is shining again, Abdullah said while speaking in the resort town. He said the tournament had brought participants from Nepal, Dubai and other overseas destinations, besides different parts of India, and their response to Pahalgam and its people was encouraging. I am happy to see that they are extremely delighted to see how beautiful this area is and how much love the people have for their arrival, he said. Abdullah said tourism was central to Jammu and Kashmirs economy and called for greater efforts to promote the sector. We believe that without tourism, there is nothing in Jammu and Kashmir. The more we promote it, the more benefit it will bring to our people, he said. Asked about global conflicts and their impact, Abdullah said the economic consequences of wars were being felt around the world and expressed hope that peace would return. Unfortunately, there are two wars going on-in Ukraine and between Iran, America and Israel, he said. The world today wants this war to stop and for peace to return there, he said. On a reported drone attack on Makkah, Abdullah said it was not yet clear who was responsible, noting that both the Houthis and Iran had denied involvement. It is not yet completely clear who did it, he said. But someone else is carrying this out. Abdullah expressed hope that the conflicts would end soon. I hope, Inshallah, this will end very soon and peace will return to the world, he said.
Uzbekistan: Layers of the Land
It was past nine when we arrived at Bukharas railway station. We were taking the overnight Orient Express to Tashkent. The dry winter mist from Zarafshan river had enveloped the station, most of whose buildings were shadowy gallery of rooftops and glassy windows. On the platform arriving passengers were yawning, shambling in fatigue. The potters leaned on luggage carriers, our carriage was being coupled with the Orient-Express, whose door was thrown open after a while by a conductor wearing shiny cap straight out of a Russian spy movie, tossing us into a warm compartment smelling of fresh linen. Far on the other side of the train wintry years of night silence and spite fell on Buxoros brown sandscape. Paul Theroux had taken the same train in 1975 while travelling from London to Tokyo across Central Asia. Uzbekistan and its religions Uzbekistan is a secular state, most of whose citizens practice Islam. According to archaeologists the birthplace of Zoroastrianism was the land of ancient Khorezm, or the region around todays West Uzbekistan - the city of Khiva. Navruz is celebrated annually on March 21 symbolizing the legacy of Zoroastrianism in todays Uzbekistan. The process of Islamization of Central Asia began with the Arab conquest in the late 8th century; with the result the Arab culture synthesized with indigenous Turkic and Persian cultures. In the 9th century representatives of the Persian dynasty of Samanids based their capital in Bukhara engaging in intense missionary activities solidifying the new faith a culture which found its way to Kashmir few centuries later through Sadats. Buddhism spread in present day Uzbekistan in the beginning of the common era and coincided with the reign of Kushans. A brief introduction to the history of religions in Uzbekistan is crucial in understanding its people which is what bought me and my family to Central Asia at the end of last year a curiosity to see a culture which is much like us, bringing a perspective into my childrens consciousness of who we are. On cold early mornings when the Afrosia train waded through the vineyards, apricot orchards on either side, under faint glow of December sun, while we travelled from Tashkent to Samarkand, we were shot into a wonderful setting. A manure laden truck stopped at a junction, schoolboys in dark blue blazers waved at the train, a farmer using his rake to clean his barn open at this hour of the day, a woman cutting dry grass with a sickle, scrawny chicken in the sun outside farm cottages. Six neat beehives, a derelict steam engine with wild weed, a tractor at a level crossing. Out the other window an old Chevrolet like a Soviet monument was struggling on the road, its driver in thick wrinkles, throwing cigarette smoke from the half open window. It is a feeling of utter quietness, deep rural isolation the train briefly penetrates. This is what I love about travel observing the ordinary life of a countryside whose people are unknown at surface level, yet so familiar at deeper levels. Samarkand, Bukhara and its Monuments In a country like Uzbekistan, you see many grand structures and places like the Shahi-Zinda -mysterious and unique architectural monuments on the northern part of Samarkand in the settlement of Afrasiab row of refine sparkling blue colored tombs harmoniously combined in dull brown muddy hills where a local told me an ancient Jewish cemetery lay close by. Or the Registan Ensemble in the heart of Samarkand a commercial crafts center for centuries. During Timurs reign (14th century) Registan was a socio-political place where laws were adopted, emperor diktats read and rumors of city scandals spread. The entire sanctorum is rebuilt in beautiful tiled walkways where once Samarkand Bazaars sold carpets, Suzani works, spices and books written on mulberry papers. While in Samarkand on impulse, on one of the days, we drove early morning to an ancient paper making factory in the suburbs. It was one of the highlights of our trip. At the factory we witnessed the entire paper making process; how branches are soaked, treated, how water-powered mallets work to soften the fibers and how swiftly the hands of the polishers move with pieces of onyx. Everything here is done just as it was ten centuries ago. Uzbekistan is well connected through its high-speed train network, a sophisticated system interspersed by Soviet look like stations. Another train took us to Bukhara. I love travelling by train, preferring it to plane or car. To borrow a quote from Paul Theroux, I have seldom heard a train go by and not wished I was on it. Travelling by train, snaking along perfectly no matter the landscape, gives you moments to reflect on the lives of people, activities of a place around you, which a car and most certainly a plane can never. Also, Im an old timer traveler who still reads Paul Theorux. I guess Neruda had people like me in mind when he said, we become the books we read. Arriving late afternoon at Bukhara and in winters when days end early we took the first hotel we laid our eyes on and soon began walking through the city of beautiful mosques, madrasahs, caravan-sarais, bathhouses, art shops, pinion walls, gates, burial vaults and other huge architectural complexes. Bukhara is a unique cultural center of the central Asia. It is a land of outstanding scientists, philosophers and poets such as Rudaki, Firdousi, Imam Al Bukhari. One of the main reasons for us to be in Bukhara was to pay obeisance at the mausoleum of Khwaja Bahouddin Nakshbandh my maternal family is from the Naqshbandi Sufi order who belonged to the Khanate of Kabul, migrating to Kashmir during the Afghan rule. Haji Ahmed-ul-lah Khan my maternal great great grand-father established his trade settling in Kaw Dour Srinagar continuing his carpet trade post migration up to Misr (Egypt). We arrived at the mausoleum by mid-day, by that time sun was shining bright on the entrance which is a necropolis of Shaybanid governors. The biggest building of the memorial is the Khankah with massive dome ceiling at the base of arks. We sat in solitude in the compound, the spiritual air of this virtuous place holding us in its warm embrace. There is a pond nearby, where our kids fed Swans. No one can really tell when Bukhara was found. Its age some claim is 2500 years old. The cultural stratigraphy here is remarkably deep. The heart of the city was the Ark citadel, where the ruler and his court lived. Outside the citadel, there was the shahristan, the district of governmental institutions, madrasahs, artisans workshops and living quarters. The shahristan was divided into Mahallas where group of craftsmen lived. Since ancient times those were Jewish diaspores. Today their homes are occupied with hotels and restaurants carefully preserving the traditional decorations. Our go to place in Bukhara was the Lyabi-Hauz (reservoir) complex presently pretty tea shops encircle it. Built in 1620 the water reservoir was the source of water for Bukhara till Russians filled its outlets in the early 20th century. We sat under the shade of willow trees, whose branches touched the pond sipping Gulkand tea. For us one of the highlights of Bukhara trip was walking along the Kochasis (alleys or lanes) under a sinking sun throwing red embers on the horizon with muezzin praying from one of the many minarets of shahristan. There are many wonderful tea lounges and restaurants lined on the old bazaars of Bukhara, but there is one Coy ChaiKhana - a chic lounge built in thin hard-fired traditional bricks (called Maharaji bricks in Kashmir) and live music which we particularly loved. The chicken Shishlik and mutton skewers were very tasty to the point that our daughter looks for them everywhere we go now. As a country Uzbekistan is truly a milieu of Turkic, Persian cultures with its Khanates of Khiva and Kokand and emirates of Bukhara, the splendors of Samarkand and Shah-i-Zinda, The Gur-e-Amir mausoleum of Great Timur, the dazzling Registan sanctorum and Tashkent its modern capital that bridges the communist Soviet Union into this wonderful syncretic culture. Communist Russian Texture Tashkent has several faces. One is the modern Tashkent, seeing the future, just a half step from common mistakes of urban development, mistakes of new money and trying so hard to keep up with the neighbors. The other is the Soviet-era Tashkent: a city of broad green avenues, architecture of socialist modernism and an unbelievably beautiful metro system. This Tashkent is not visible through a car window. To understand this city, we had to get down from our cab and see the colors of the city, smell its neighborhoods, sit on its benches, walk in its public parks where you can find a statue of Pushkin - the 18th century Russian poet. A devastating earthquake in 1966 destroyed much of the city, so the old mudbrick Tashkent suffered total devastation. Only a few pockets of that old Tashkent remain, miraculously surviving the turbulent 20th century, they present a face of Tashkent: the wizened face of an old man, a chaotic, complicated labyrinth of a city that keeps its socialist planning. We walked miles on the broadened roads of Tashkent, under its Chinar trees, resting at cafes, sipping cappuccino under cold rain, trying skewers, stopping at buildings which carried imperial Russian presence, looking at Hotel Uzbekistan and wondering how architecture travels across cultures and countries. The many state-owned socialist era Centaur hotels in India bear striking resemblance to its brutal architecture. In fact, many decrepit apartment buildings in Tashkent look like Delhis DDA flats devoid of any aesthetics but developing a patina of their own. A very distinct memory from this travel that somehow stayed with us more than anything was on the final day of our trip, when we visited Chorsu bazaar - an Oriental market in Tashkent, unkempt and uncouth, not even trying to produce an impression, comfortable in its own skin. Bins of curd, baskets of trotters, hundreds of meters of meat cuts, that is Chorsu Bazaar. As we exit the Bazaar, there were long lines of food, ready or cooked: Bureks, plov, mutton skewers, chicken Shashlik. We entered one of the restaurants and now often at our dinner table we remember that food - nothing fancy, just Uzbek Plov, Samsa, fresh tandoor bread and Shashliks, heavenly tasty a place full of character. Tables were occupied by mostly working-class people who had come for shopping in Chorsu, familes with kids and elder parents. It is in such places I find the soul of a city in that meal which a family is having with little means but wide smiles. I recommend Uzbekistan to everyone if not for anything but to experience the warmth of its amazing people. Fahim Gundroo is based in Dubai, works as a Technical Project Manager.
Governors rule would better serve J&K: G M Shaheen
Janta Dal (United) Jammu & Kashmir State President G M Shaheen has called upon the authorities to seriously consider the prevailing situation in Jammu & Kashmir and take steps in the larger interest of the people. Shaheen, as per a statement issued on Saturday, said that direct administration under the Lieutenant Governor would, in his view, be more effective than the present elected dispensation if the government is unable to adequately address the growing concerns of ordinary citizens. He said that people are looking for effective governance, development, employment opportunities, better roads, reliable public services and timely resolution of their grievances. People cannot be expected to remain silent when their genuine issues continue to affect their daily lives. Governance must be judged by delivery on the ground, not merely by political statements, Shaheen said. He appealed to the Lieutenant Governor to examine, within the constitutional and legal framework, whether dissolution of the Legislative Assembly and a period of direct administration would better serve public welfare. The J&K Reorganisation Act provides for a five-year term of the Legislative Assembly unless it is sooner dissolved.
Kashmir finds its way into my work almost instinctively.
Yourself and your journey as an illustrator and graphic designer: My name is Ghazal Qadri, and I am a Kashmiri-born illustrator and graphic designer. I grew up in Kashmir and later moved away for high school and higher education. I hold a bachelors degree in Accessory Design from NIFT and an MA in Illustration from the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, USA. I currently work as a freelance illustrator and am represented by Sara Crowe Literary. My work is inspired by everyday life, childhood, culture, people-watching and birdwatching. I enjoy creating comics, picture books and designs for social causes. My style is expressive, colourful and character-driven, with a special interest in projects related to children, education and community. Your earliest memories of art, and when did you realise illustration was your calling. Some of my earliest memories of art are of sitting in my room surrounded by things most people would call junk. I would spread out a bedsheet, bring out my collection of paper, glue, driftwood and other little finds, and start making something from them. My father would always wait to see what I had created, and he loved displaying my handmade pieces around the house. Many of them are still there today. My familys encouragement made me want to keep creating. Later, when I moved to a boarding school in Jaipur, I was surrounded by creative people and many new opportunities. My teachers and classmates encouraged me to take part in art competitions and activities. That experience gave me confidence and helped me realise that art and illustration were something I wanted to pursue seriously. My father always encouraged creativity at home, and both my brother and I had the freedom to explore our interests. My brother was also artistic, although he eventually chose a different career path and did very well in it. I decided to continue with art. I loved making things out of discarded materials, and that interest led me to study Accessory Design at NIFT Hyderabad. Later, I joined a design studio where I had the opportunity to work on illustration projects. That experience gave me the confidence to pursue illustration more seriously as a career. Your journey from Kashmir to the United States unfold. My journey began when political unrest in Kashmir disrupted education in 2010. My family decided to send me to a boarding school in Jaipur so that my studies would not suffer. It was difficult to leave home, but the experience introduced me to new creative opportunities. I participated in art competitions, received encouragement from teachers and began to understand that art could become a serious career. I later studied product and lifestyle-accessory design at NIFT Hyderabad and then worked as an illustrator at Lollypop Design Studio in Bangalore. In 2018, I travelled to Buffalo, New York, for an art fellowship connected with Roswell Park. That was one of my earliest professional experiences in the United States and gave me valuable exposure to the international creative community. I subsequently completed my masters degree in Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2020. After graduating, I continued working in the United States as a freelance illustrator and visual designer. I have lived in several cities during that journey and am now based in Dallas. How much of Kashmir finds its way into your work, consciously or subconsciously? Kashmir finds its way into my work almost instinctively. Sometimes it appears consciously through the language, humour, clothing, crafts and everyday traditions I illustrate. Projects such as the Kath Baath stickers, for example, grew from my desire to preserve Kashmiri phrases and translate them visually for both Kashmiri and non-Kashmiri audiences. Which artists, writers or illustrators have influenced your style the most? Gemma Correll, Mike Lowery and Huda are some of my favourite artists. Their work is similar to the kind of illustration I enjoy, and they continue to inspire me. My earliest and strongest influence, however, was Alicia Souza. Her work had a very positive impact on the way I observe and illustrate everyday life. I even had a little fan moment when I got the chance to meet her at an event once. Which assignment has been the most meaningful, and why? The most special assignment for me has been Sonth Is Here because it was my debut book as an author-illustrator. My father supported me a lot throughout the process, and the editors and art directors at Pratham Books helped me shape and develop the book. It is still very special to me because it is closely connected to my own feelings, experiences and memories of Kashmir. Books, publications or brands you have illustrated for. I have worked across childrens publishing, comics, editorial illustration, branding and educational communication. I wrote and illustrated Sonth Is Here, published by Pratham Books, which celebrates the arrival of spring in Kashmir. I also illustrated Say Something, Poupeh Babaee!, a middle-grade graphic novel written by Haleh Massey and published by Yellow Jacket. It follows an Iranian girl navigating immigration, family separation, and selective mutism. This was launched this year in January. Another memorable book was Allie and the Albino Squirrel, written by E. K. McCoy and published through Atmosphere Press. For that project, I combined illustrated characters with photographic backgrounds to create a distinctive visual world. I have also worked on projects with UNICEF, Tulika Publishers, SIHA magazine, DreamWorks and Gifts of Love. In the branding space, I have developed packaging, mascots and visual identities for food, education and community-focused organisations. Do you think digital platforms have made it easier for artists from smaller regions to reach international audiences? Absolutely. Digital platforms have significantly reduced geographical limitations. An artist can now share their work from Kashmir and have it seen by publishers, clients, and audiences across the globe. For instance, my Kashmiri illustrations and WhatsApp stickers were initially shared online, reaching Kashmiris living in many different countries. Surprisingly, they also resonated with people who didn't understand the Kashmiri language but still connected with the expressions and humour. At first, my father and I spent hours manually forwarding the stickers one by one to people who sent direct messages on my Instagram, until a friend eventually designed a dedicated app for me. My website and social media platforms have also been instrumental in helping editors, publishers, and collaborators discover my work. However, gaining visibility online is just the beginning; artists still need a distinct voice, a robust portfolio, and consistency to turn that exposure into a sustainable career. Are there any upcoming books, exhibitions or collaborations that you can share with our readers? My middle-grade graphic novel Say Something, Poupeh Babaee! was recently published, and seeing such a large and emotionally layered project finally become a book was very special. I do not have an exhibition announcement at the moment, but I would love to eventually present a body of work centred on Kashmiri memories, humour and everyday culture. You have also made WhatsApp stickers, reflecting Kashmiri emotions, vibe. How did the idea come to you? Are you planning more such stickers? The idea began in the summer of 2018, when I returned home to Kashmir. While attending weddings, going on picnics and visiting villages, I felt deeply nostalgic about our language, humour and everyday expressions. The first illustration in the series came from a personal moment. My mother used the Kashmiri expression Kharizaleeli for me, and I immediately felt inspired to turn it into a character. I posted the illustration on Instagram, and people responded to it with so much excitement and recognition. That reaction encouraged me to create more and the series kept growing. Coincidentally, WhatsApp introduced its sticker feature at the same time, I realised these illustrations could become something people could actually use in their daily conversations. The characters wore pherans and traditional headgear and expressed familiar emotions, phrases and proverbs. My father really helped me share the stickers with his contacts in the beginning, and gradually they reached Kashmiris around the world. Yes! I would love to revisit the series and create a new collection. Kashmiri language and humour continue to evolve, especially among younger generations and the diaspora, so there are many new expressions, emotions and situations that could be explored through stickers.
Waste becomes learning tool at Kaloosa school in Bandipora
In a classroom where discarded material could have ended up as waste, students of Government Boys Middle School Kaloosa have created something remarkably different a collection of innovative and useful exhibits under the schools Trash to Treasure project. What makes the initiative particularly striking is the pace at which it has taken shape. In less than 15 days, the classroom has been transformed into a creative space filled with items made from discarded materials, reflecting the imagination and efforts of the students and teachers. The initiative aims to inculcate a culture of recycling, cleanliness and responsible waste management among students while giving them an opportunity to learn through practical activities rather than textbooks alone. The project, as per the KNS, has received appreciation from the Chief Education Officer (CEO) Bandipora and the concerned Zonal Education Officer, who lauded the school for encouraging creativity and environmental awareness among students. Head of Institution Mushtaq Ahmad Mir attributed the initiative largely to the dedicated efforts of teacher Rehana Mushtaq, saying her commitment had played an important role in taking the project forward. Whatever has been created here is the result of the efforts of Rehana Mushtaq, a teacher of our school, who is working her best for this noble cause, Mir said. The exhibits demonstrate how materials generally considered useless can be reused creatively, giving students a practical understanding of sustainability and waste management. Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib also appreciated the schools efforts, saying, This school has the vision as well as potential to set an amazing example in Swachhata for other schools of Bandipora district to follow. The initiative has turned an ordinary classroom into a space of experimentation and learning, offering a simple message, what is discarded as waste can become a source of creativity when young minds are given the opportunity to innovate.
PDP leaders discuss civic issues at Chattabal workers meeting
The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held a workers meeting in Chattabal, Srinagar, with PDP senior leader and Constituency Incharge Habba Kadal Arif Laigroo, former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh and District Secretary Mohammad Altaf Tambakoo interacting with party workers and taking stock of the issues confronting residents of the area. The meeting, as per a statement, witnessed a detailed discussion on several pressing public grievances, with workers highlighting the burden of high electricity bills, poor and unhygienic drinking water, and the deteriorating condition of lanes and drainage infrastructure in Chattabal. Speaking on the occasion, Arif Laigroo said that basic civic amenities cannot be treated as a privilege and that the genuine grievances of residents must receive immediate attention from the concerned departments. He said that people are facing difficulties in their day-to-day lives and authorities must move beyond assurances and ensure visible action on the ground. Laigroo assured the workers that the issues raised during the meeting would be taken up with the concerned authorities at the appropriate level, and stressed that public grievances would continue to remain a priority of the party. He said that high electricity bills are putting additional pressure on ordinary households, while inadequate drinking-water facilities and neglected drainage and lanes are directly affecting public health and daily life. He urged the concerned departments to conduct on-ground assessments and address these issues in a time-bound manner. Laigroo further called upon PDP workers to intensify public outreach and maintain continuous contact with residents, saying that the strength of the party lies in standing with people and raising their concerns at every appropriate forum. Former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh and District Secretary Mohammad Altaf Tambakoo also listened to the concerns raised by the workers and stressed the need for sustained engagement with the public. The meeting was attended by Sarah Nayeem, Hajra Ji, Umar Dar, Fayaz Reshi, Shabir Ahmed, Zubair Ahmed and a number of other party workers.
Is Artificial Intelligence really plotting to kill us?
Recently, there was an uproar in the media over the resignation of an artificial intelligence researcher who quit the AI firm Anthropic. He warned that people working on the technology were frightened by the speed of its advancement. If we did not slow down, the consequences could quickly become catastrophic. Whether we agree or not, we must all ask ourselves this question: Can we trust AI? The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. This is because AI has taken the world by storm. It is extraordinary, unlike anything the world has experienced before. We can tame monstrous amounts of data and use them to our benefit. Our healthcare, animal health, finance, mechanics, and education are all taking leaps into the future with the advent of AI. Everyone today has a super assistant that is capable of wonders. So, used responsibly, AI can amplify human intelligence and bring revolutions. The same technology, however, is also driving us crazy. The amount of misinformation generated in the last year alone is staggering. Deepfakes, manipulated audio, and automated text have turned the world into a circus. AI hallucinations can be absurdly funny. A machine can say something ridiculous with the same confidence with which it says something true. Imagine this meme actually coming to pass. A man finds a mushroom and asks an AI: Is this mushroom poisonous? No, the AI assures him. It is perfectly safe. The man eats it and dies. The AI then responds: You are right. This is, in fact, a poisonous mushroom. I apologise for the error. So, I would hesitate before befriending AI. AI as a friend is not like Hermione Granger. It may be extraordinarily intelligent. But it lacks the loyalty, judgment, conscience, or instinct of a trusted human friend. Thankfully, it is also not like Peter Pettigrew, who knowingly betrays his friends for his own interests. However, AI does remind me of someone very weird. Working with AI can sometimes feel like working with Smagol from Lord of the Rings. It knows the way and can be a lifesaver. It can take you to places you would never have been able to navigate alone. And yet, the moment you lower your guard, you may discover that the guide you trusted is suddenly on the dark side. This is not deliberate. There is a ring of power egging on a change of heart, which, in this case, is all the factors that shape the AI model. A hallucinating AI is not sitting somewhere inside the machine thinking, I know this is false, but let me fool this person. It does so because it is in Gollums nature to overpower Smagol, at times, if the ring is too close. We can hardly blame him for that, but that doesnt make him any less dangerous. So, Gollum offers an important lesson. The more useful AI becomes, the more we may trust it. Eventually, we may stop cross-checking, verifying, and over-rely. We may become so fascinated by its power that we relinquish our own, and that is the moment when Gollum takes over. So never completely forget who you are travelling with. Let Smeagol guide you, but keep the Ring tucked away safely. For if Gollum gets the Ring, that could indeed be catastrophic. Dr Ambreen Hamadani, PhD, PDF(USA), Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist enter for AI and ML, SKUAST- Kashmir
J&K Judicial Academy holds sensitisation programme on narcotics-related issues
Under the patronage of Dr Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Judicial Academy), and under the guidance of the Chairman and Members of the Governing Committee of the J&K Judicial Academy, a One Day Sensitisation Programme on Issues Related to Narcotics was conducted on Saturday, at the Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy, Mominabad, here in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau, Srinagar Zonal Unit. The programme, as per an official statement, aimed to sensitise judicial officers, prosecutors, investigating officers and other stakeholders on the legal, investigative and evidentiary issues arising under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). The Keynote Address was delivered by Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Chairman, Governing Committee, J&K Judicial Academy. He emphasized that the stringent provisions of the NDPS Act require strict adherence to statutory safeguards and highlighted the importance of lawful search and seizure, reliable evidence, proper chain of custody and fair investigation. Referring to Sections 42, 50, 52A, 67 and 37 of the Act, Justice Rajnesh Oswal stressed the need for proper documentation, corroborative and digital evidence, and truthful investigation. He also underscored the importance of a human-centred approach towards persons suffering from substance dependence while maintaining firm enforcement against organized trafficking. Director, J&K Judicial Academy, Naseer Ahmad Dar, in his Welcome and Introductory Address, emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts among investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary in effectively addressing NDPS cases. He highlighted the need for lawful investigation, strict compliance with statutory safeguards and proper preservation of evidence to ensure effective and timely adjudication. Sambit Mishra, IRS, DDG, NCB-NWR, emphasized the importance of interaction among investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary so that each stakeholder understands the expectations and constraints of the others. He stressed that effective prosecution depends not only on the evidence collected but also on strict compliance with procedural requirements and proper presentation of the case before the court. In his Special Address, Abdul Qayoom, DIG Crime Branch, highlighted the growing challenge of drug abuse and emphasized coordinated efforts by police, prosecution and judiciary. He stressed capacity building, procedural compliance, proper documentation and preservation of chain of custody, besides the need to investigate the forward and backward linkages of drug trafficking networks rather than limiting investigations to persons found carrying contraband. During Session-I, titled Challenges Faced in Investigation of NDPS Cases (IO Perspective), Kubra Nazir, DySP, ANTF Kashmir, highlighted challenges relating to Sections 42 and 50, searches, independent witnesses, videography, inventory, chain of custody, sampling, forensic delays and collection of digital and financial evidence. She emphasised timely compliance and proper documentation, particularly in view of the geographical and cross-border trafficking challenges in Jammu & Kashmir. Session-II, titled Identification of Investigation Gaps Affecting Prosecution and Evidentiary Strength, was conducted by Aftab Jeelani Wani, Public Prosecutor, NCB, Srinagar Zonal Unit. He emphasized that the strength of an NDPS prosecution depends substantially upon the quality and legality of investigation, particularly compliance with statutory requirements, proper search and seizure, documentation, chain of evidence and establishment of foundational facts before reliance on statutory presumptions. Session-III, titled Appreciation of Evidence and Common Grounds Leading to Acquittals; Coordination between Investigators, Prosecutors and Judiciary for Strengthening Cases, was conducted by Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir, Former Chief Justice, High Court of Meghalaya, with focus on appreciation of evidence and coordination among the stakeholders for strengthening NDPS cases. During Session-IV, Srinivasan Gopal, Former Assistant Director, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, highlighted the mandatory compliance framework governing search, seizure and arrest under the NDPS Act. He emphasized proper sampling, inventory, documentation and maintenance of an unbroken chain of custody from seizure through forensic examination and production before the court. Session-V, conducted by Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director, J&K Judicial Academy, focused on the judicial approach to bail under Section 37 of the NDPS Act, including the twin conditions applicable in commercial-quantity cases. He emphasized that the bail stage should not become a mini-trial and highlighted measures for timely disposal of cases, including effective witness management, case tracking, prompt Section 52A compliance and FSL reports, reduction of unnecessary adjournments, time-bound charge framing and greater use of video conferencing. The programme brought together the judiciary, prosecution, police, NCB, ANTF and other enforcement stakeholders, facilitating an interdisciplinary exchange aimed at strengthening investigation, evidence preservation, prosecution and adjudication of NDPS cases. The programme concluded with Concluding Remarks by Piyush Kumar Ankit, Zonal Director, Narcotics Control Bureau, Srinagar, followed by the Vote of Thanks by Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director, J&K Judicial Academy. The proceedings of the day were moderated by Mufti Nahida, Additional Mobile Magistrate (T), Srinagar.
Creating obstacles to elected Govt contrary to democratic governance: NC
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Srinagar District President and former MLA Peer Afaq Ahmad Saturday said that the continued delay by BJP government in granting full powers to the democratically elected government of Jammu and Kashmir is reinforcing the perception that the BJP has not reconciled itself to the National Conferences electoral victory. As per a party statement issued, he made these comments while presiding over a meeting of newly constituted members of district Srinagar. He said the elected government must be vested with the powers necessary to serve the people without hindrance and deliver effective relief and assistance. Peer Afaq Ahmad urged the Central Government to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir without further delay and provide the elected government a genuine opportunity to serve the people in accordance with its mandate. He said deliberately creating obstacles in the functioning of an elected government is contrary to the principles and requirements of democratic governance. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have given the National Conference a five-year mandate to govern and that this popular mandate must be respected. Along with restoration of statehood, he called for concrete measures to restore the constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He cited the Smart City project as a prominent example, saying that despite substantial expenditure, the project had not delivered the expected benefits to the people. He said frequent traffic congestion across Srinagar, waterlogging of roads and lanes even after moderate rainfall, and deficiencies in the drainage system reflected shortcomings in planning and execution. He expressed confidence that the government would address past shortcomings, undertake necessary reforms and provide better facilities and services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Borrowed Pyjama and the Borrowed State
In Thursdays Greater Kashmir, Haseeb Drabu did something rare in our public life. He took a silly quarrel seriously, and in doing so showed us how silly it is. The quarrel began with the claim that a whole village once shared a single pyjama. It has since produced effigies, memes, one apology from one NC legislator, regret from another, and a Chief Ministers refusal to apologise at all. Drabus point is that civilisation and poverty are not opposites. Egypt built its high culture on forced labour, and Bengal had a refined court while people starved. Antiquity, as he puts it, is not a savings account. I agree with his history. I want to take his argument one step further, because the pyjama quarrel is not really about the past. It is about what we cannot bring ourselves to say about the present. What the old men knew I grew up in Lolab, where poverty was lived, not read about. The generation before mine did not need Walter Lawrence to tell them what the Dogra years were like. They carried it in their bodies: the walk to the city in borrowed clothes, the pulhoad, a straw sandal woven for feet that had no leather, and the harvest counted out to the last handful before the cultivator saw his share. When the old men said akh yezar poore mohallas, one pyjama for the whole mohalla, nobody was being mocked. It was the humour of survivors, the kind that makes hardship bearable by making it laughable. So Tanvir Sadiq was not inventing anything. Omar Abdullah is right that the poverty is well documented. The Big Landed Estates Abolition Act of 1950, which gave land to the tiller, was a real revolution. It changed rural Kashmir more deeply than most land reforms anywhere in the subcontinent. No honest history of Kashmir can leave it out. And yet the remark hurt. It is worth asking why. Why it hurt Drabu calls it a semiotic hijack: a sign of poverty rewritten as a sign of shame. That is true, but it doesnt explain who was ready to be hijacked, or why. A people who feel secure in the present can laugh about the past. The Irish joke about the famine years, and the Punjabi farmer laughing about his grandfathers single kurta. Kashmiris could not laugh this time, because the remark landed on an open wound. That wound is not 1930. It is 2019 and everything since. In 2019 we were told, in effect, that we would now be governed in borrowed clothes. The state became a Union Territory. The elected government has a title but limited powers. Statehood is promised, then postponed, then promised again. Our young people carry degrees the way their great-grandfathers carried borrowed pyjamas: to look complete in public while being incomplete in fact. The unemployment, the drug crisis among the young, and the brain drain are the pyjama shortages of our time. We have not yet found the Sheikh Abdullah who will end them. When a ruling-party spokesperson reminds a people with borrowed statehood that they once had borrowed trousers, the listener does not hear history. He hears a comparison. He hears: be grateful, you have come far. A man who feels he has recently gone backwards will not take that kindly. The five-thousand-year reflex The reaction was no more honest than the remark. The PDPs answer, that a 5,000-year-old civilisation had been reduced to trivia, is exactly what Drabu diagnoses: If the political self feels smaller, the cultural self is asked to stand in for it. Lalitaditya, Abhinavagupta, Lal Ded and Nund Rishi are not a reply to anything. They are what we reach for when we have nothing to say about today. The BJP burning a naked effigy in Srinagar deserves only one sentence. A party that has spent seven years dismantling the political dignity of Kashmiris has no standing to defend their sartorial dignity. What should trouble us most is that every party found this fight comfortable. Arguing about 1930 is safe, because it costs nothing, risks nothing and promises nothing. Arguing about 2026 is dangerous, because it requires a plan. Since 1950 the National Conference has lived off the land-to-tiller reform. That is a proud inheritance, but an inheritance is not an income, and a party that keeps citing a reform from 76 years ago is telling us something about its record since. The opposition, in turn, prefers wounded pride to a policy. Both are fighting over the old wardrobe because neither has anything new to offer. A soldiers reading In the Army we were taught that a units morale depends less on what it has than on whether it trusts that its leaders are honest about what it lacks. A commander who tells his men there is no ammunition shortage when there is one loses them. So does a commander who spends the briefing recalling how much worse the last war was. Kashmir today needs neither denial nor nostalgia. It needs an honest briefing. That means an account of what we have: the literacy, the roads and the grandchildren of cultivators who are now doctors and engineers, much of it thanks to 1950. It also means an account of what we lack: political authority, jobs for the educated young, trust in institutions, and a future that does not depend on Delhis goodwill. Faiz wrote, aur bhi dukh hain zamane mein mohabbat ke siwa: the world has other sorrows than love. Kashmir has other sorrows than a pyjama. That the whole political class spent a fortnight on this one tells us which sorrows they would rather not be asked about. What we might do instead Let me suggest three things, in the spirit Drabu opened. First, let history be history. The poverty of the Dogra years belongs in our schools and archives, told plainly and without embarrassment. A people who are ashamed of having been poor will never understand how they stopped being poor. Our grandparents borrowed pyjamas are a mark of endurance, not disgrace. Second, retire the anniversary politics. Commemorations of Sheikh Abdullah should ask what the land-to-tiller reform of our generation would be. Is it a jobs guarantee for graduates? A real rehabilitation programme for the young lost to drugs? A united, non-partisan demand for statehood with a deadline? Any of these would honour him more than defending a sentence about trousers. Third, speak about dignity where it is actually at stake. It is not threatened by a folk saying. It is threatened by the absence of elected authority, by laws that treat suspicion as proof, and by a young generation that sees no road ahead. If our parties shared a fraction of the outrage they spent on the pyjama remark and turned it on these questions, Kashmir would be better served. Tailpiece Drabu closes with the Kashmiri phrase phirith pheran tshunun, to wear the pheran inside out: blaming someone else for your own fault. It fits this quarrel perfectly. Everyone has turned the garment inside out. The ruling party blames history for the offence, the opposition blames the ruling party for insulting civilisation, and the BJP blames everyone while holding the keys to the wardrobe. The old men of my village, if they were alive, would find all this very funny. They had one pyjama and no illusions. We have many pyjamas and not much else. Iqbal saw both the civilisation and the poverty and did not pretend that one cancelled the other. He wrote in the voice of Mulla Zada Zaigham Lolabi, a poet he imagined from my own Lolab: Aaj woh Kashmir hai mehkoom-o-majboor-o-faqeer Kal jise ahl-e-nazar kehte the Iran-e-sagheer Today that Kashmir is subjugated, helpless and poor, which only yesterday the discerning called Little Iran. Keh raha hai dastaan bedardi-e-ayyam ki Koh ke daaman mein woh gham-khana-e-dehqaan-e-peer It tells the story of a pitiless age, the old peasants hut of sorrow in the mountains lap. Iqbal put the lament and the hunger in the same couplet. We keep them in separate quarrels. The day our leaders speak of Little Iran and the old peasants hut in one breath, and do something about the hut, Kashmir will not need anyones permission to be proud. (The writer is a former Indian Army officer. He writes on issues pertaining to Jammu & Kashmir)
Sopore trekker Shahzad Ahmad marks milestone in 13-year mountain journey
Sopore trekker Shahzad Ahmad has marked a milestone in his 13-year mountain journey after completing an expedition to Nagender Lakes in Warwan Valley on August 31. Ahmads trekking journey, which began in 2013, has taken him across several high-altitude trails and alpine lakes in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Trekker Shahzad Ahmad, in a statement claims to have completed the exploration of 100+ Alpine Lakes across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakha 13-year journey marked by perseverance, adventure and an enduring passion for the mountains. Shahzads trekking journey began in August 2013, with his first major expedition from Chandanwari in Pahalgam to Sukhnai in Warwan Valley via Sheeshnag. After a gap of nearly five years, he returned to the mountains in 2018 and completed the iconic Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) trek, rekindling a passion that would eventually turn into a long-term pursuit. Due to professional commitments, regular trekking was not possible during the initial years. Nevertheless, Ahmad continued undertaking shorter day treks across Baramulla and Bandipora, keeping his connection with the mountains alive. A major turning point came in 2020, with the formation of the Mountain Warriors Adventure Club. Since then, Ahmad, along with fellow club members and senior trekkers, has undertaken numerous expeditions across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, exploring renowned routes including Kashmir Great Lakes, Herpora, Tarsar-Marsar and the Greater Lakes of Tosa Maidan, Durinar 1, 2 and BarafSar also known as AdilSar Highest Alpine Lake of Kashmir with 4642 Mtrs ASL (15100) Feet, among others. His mountain journey has also included challenging winter expeditions, including overnight snow treks to Lederwatt in Pahalgam, Chorkhud in Uri and Bangus Valley. Another notable achievement came on 27 June 2021, when Ahmad summited Mount Mahadev, one of the prominent high peaks overlooking the Srinagar region. Over the years, the expeditions took him through remote valleys, high-altitude passes, rugged trails and some of the most pristine landscapes of the Himalayas. With every expedition, another Alpine Lake was added to the journey, gradually transforming a passion for trekking into a personal mission to explore 100 Alpine Lakes. The long-awaited milestone was finally achieved on 31 August 2026, when Ahmad completed his 100+ Alpine Lakes journey at Nagender Lakes in Warwan Valley. Reflecting on the achievement, Ahmad expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for giving him the strength, health and opportunity to pursue his passion for the mountains. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to his team members and senior trekkers for their constant encouragement, guidance and companionship throughout the journey. Ahmad reserved special thanks for his family, whose unconditional love, patience and support, he said, remained a constant source of strength throughout the years. The achievement is more than a personal milestone. It represents 13 years of perseverance, exploration and commitment to the mountains, while also highlighting the extraordinary natural beauty and high-altitude landscapes of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. For Shahzad Ahmad, however, reaching 100 Alpine Lakes is not the end of the journey.
Srinagar Open Tennis Championship 2026 to be held from October 2-4
The Srinagar Open Tennis Championship 2026 will be held at Gindun Sports Complex Rajbagh in Srinagar from October 2 to October 4 this year. District Lawn Tennis Association, an affiliate of the Jammu and Kashmir Lawn Tennis Association, the sixth edition of the Srinagar Open Tennis Championships, as per a statement issued on Saturday, is expected to see participation of around 50 players in open category and age group events. The Srinagar Open has become an annual feature of the tennis calendar in Jammu and Kashmir. Tennis in Kashmir has come a long way since the inaugural event was held in 2020. We look forward to some great tennis as new players have joined us in the journey over the past six years, Organising Secretary of the Championships Abdul Wahab said. Wahab said the players who want to participate in the event can contact him or any office bearers of the District Lawn Tennis Association for details at Gindun Sports Complex from 4 pm to 6 pm. The last date to submit entries is September 27 while the draw of lots will be held on September 30. The singles tournament in all categories will be played on knock out basis while the doubles event will be played on league basis in two groups before semifinals and final. Inayat Jehangir is the defending champion in the singles event while he also holds the doubles crown with his partner Dilbagh Singh. Mohammad Qais was the Under 16 (boys) champion last year while Zainab Zaman won the Under 10 (girls) event.
High-altitude field ecology course concludes at SKUAST-K
Srinagar, Sep 19:A two-week specialised High-Altitude Field Ecology Course for young PhD researchers working on high-altitude Himalayan ecology concluded at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K). The programme was jointly organised by the Division of Wildlife Sciences, SKUAST-K, and the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS-TIFR), Bengaluru, under the aegis of the Indica School of Field Ecology and Conservation, with support from the Murty Trust. The course brought together a select cohort of young researchers from across India. The participants were chosen through a rigorous selection process from 115 applicants, reflecting growing interest in advanced field-based training in Himalayan ecology and conservation. Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who graced the valedictory ceremony, appreciated the initiative and efforts of Prof Khursheed Ahmad, Head, Division of Wildlife Sciences, and the NCBS team. He emphasised the importance of science-based conservation, professional capacity building, research-management linkages and field-oriented training for the next generation of wildlife biologists and conservation professionals. The course was inaugurated on September 5 by Dr Suneesh Buxy, IFS, PCCF (WL) and Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K. He underscored the importance of specialised field ecology training for advancing conservation science in the Himalaya and stressed the need to strengthen research-management linkages for translating scientific knowledge into evidence-based conservation and wildlife management interventions. Buxy also assured all possible support and cooperation from the Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K, for strengthening collaboration with SKUAST-K and promoting management-oriented wildlife research. The intensive programme combined classroom sessions, hands-on training and field exercises covering ecological sampling, biodiversity assessment, wildlife population monitoring, habitat evaluation and protected-area management. Field-based learning was conducted across diverse Himalayan ecosystems, including Dachigam and Kazinag National Parks, Gulmarg, the High-Altitude Field Station and Botanical Garden of the University of Kashmir, and Hokersar Wetland Reserve.
RBI holds conference on Financial Sector Initiatives, Cyber Security Awareness in Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 19: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Jammu on Saturday organised one-day conference on Financial Sector Initiatives and Cyber Security Awareness at Hotel Taj Dal View, Srinagar. The conference was attended by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo as the chief guest and Rohit Jain, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India as special guest in presence of Prabhakar Jha, Regional Director, RBI Jammu. The event was also attended by Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home Department; M K Sinha, ADGP, CID and Administrative Secretaries of Industries and Commerce Department, Housing and Urban Development Department, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, Information Department, Revenue Department and Labour and Employment Department; Amitava Chatterjee, MD and CEO, J&K Bank; Controlling and Zonal Heads of banks operating in J&K; and other senior officers from J&K government, Jammu and Kashmir Police, RBI Central Office (Mumbai), Reserve Bank Innovation HUB, NABARD, NPCI, and RXIL. In his keynote address, the Chief Secretary highlighted that the UT administration has prioritised the development of key sectors such as Tourism, Agriculture and allied activities, Hydropower and MSMEs. He stressed the need to leverage their inherent strengths and channelise credit to these sectors to expand agriculture term lending, upgrade existing SHGs into meaningful enterprises, and develop handicrafts and niche products in the UT. He said that the RBIs Unified Lending Interface (ULI) would accelerate credit delivery and accomplish for credit delivery what UPI accomplished for retail payments. Further, Atal Dulloo said that Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) would work towards resolving the liquidity issues of MSMEs and enable their further growth. Central Bank Digital Currency (Digital Rupee) and its programmability feature would offer possibilities for targeted state subsidies for welfare schemes, he added. Emphasising upon the continued focus of Government of India and the UT administration on reducing cyber frauds, the Chief Secretary advised all stakeholders to act collectively. Further, he encouraged all stakeholders to draw actionable road maps based on the conference for the progress of the UT. The Deputy Governor RBI, in his special address, highlighted the role of RBI as a full-service central bank. He underscored that apart from core functions like handling Monetary Policy, Regulatory and Supervisory functions, RBI has developmental agenda focusing on Payment and Settlement Systems, Financial Inclusion, development of markets etc. He emphasised that Unified Lending Interface (ULI), an initiative of RBI, would help in achieving seamless and frictionless credit to diverse sectors of the economy, thus improving overall well-being. He stated that though technology bring sufficiency but also brings about risks of cyber frauds. He apprised that RBI consistently engages with the Government authorities to overcome these challenges. Further, innovative technology-driven solutions such as MuleHunter.ai for strengthening fraud detection, card tokenisation, introduction of bank.in domain, unified calling numbers and the compensation framework for unauthorised electronic banking transactions would create a financial ecosystem which would protect customers and retain their trust in the banking sector, he said. He also stressed upon the need to scale up efforts to increase public awareness for these initiatives. He expressed the gratitude towards J&K government for their active involvement in the conference. The conference had thematic sessions on Unified Lending Interface (ULI): Present Status and Challenges (including Rollout in J&K); Digital Rupee ( e ) CBDC; Brief on Mule Hunters.AI and its implementation; Supervisory approach to Digital Lending Apps; Card Tokenisation, .bank.in domain and Unified Calling Numbers; Compensation framework for small value fraudulent Electronic Banking Transaction (EBTs); Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C)/ State Cyber Crime CoordinationCentre (S4C) and Modus Operandi of Cybercrime in J&K; fraud prevention measures for UPI payments and Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS): Challenges in J&K.
Mohammad Qais wins silver at J&K UT-level Soft Tennis Championship
Mohammad Qais won the silver medal at the 10th J&K UT-Level Soft Tennis Championship 2026-27, held from Sept 17 to 19 at Gindun Sports Centre, Srinagar. The event as per a statement, was organised by the J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council. The championship was held under the banner of the Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India, recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. Dr Mubashir Ahmad, HOD of Islamic University was the Chief Guest and Dilbagh Singh, Manager Gindun Stadium was Guest of Honour., Dr Gh. Hassan Founding Member of the Association was also present on the occasion.
Sheikh Zaid hits unbeaten 110 in wheelchair cricket match at Baramulla
The Wheelchair Cricket Association J&K, in collaboration with Government Degree College Baramulla, organised a wheelchair cricket match between wheelchair cricket teams representing Baramulla and Budgam at Government Degree College Baramulla. The match, as per a statement, provided a valuable platform for wheelchair athletes to showcase their cricketing talent, determination and sporting abilities. The players displayed remarkable confidence, competitive spirit and dedication, proving that physical disability cannot come in the way of talent, passion and achievement. A major highlight of the match was the outstanding batting performance of Sheikh Zaid from Sopore, who scored an impressive 110 runs not out off just 45 balls. His remarkable innings showcased the exceptional cricketing talent present among wheelchair athletes in Jammu & Kashmir. The event was sponsored by Amin EV Hubs, Waripora, Kunzer, Gulmarg Road, Magam, whose valuable support contributed towards the successful organisation of the event. At the conclusion of the match, the President of Wheelchair Cricket Association J&K expressed sincere gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, the Principal of Government Degree College Baramulla, and all other individuals and institutions who extended their support and cooperation for the event. While speaking to media persons, the President highlighted the major challenges being faced by wheelchair cricketers in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly the shortage of proper sports wheelchairs and team uniforms. He said that although the region has talented wheelchair athletes, the lack of appropriate sporting equipment and resources often restricts their ability to train and participate effectively at higher levels. He appealed to the Government, public representatives, corporate houses, institutions and other stakeholders to come forward and support wheelchair cricket by providing sports wheelchairs, uniforms, training facilities, transportation and other necessary sporting infrastructure. The President further stated that with adequate support and opportunities, wheelchair cricketers from Jammu & Kashmir can represent the region with pride at national and international platforms and bring recognition to Jammu & Kashmir through their sporting achievements. The Association reiterated its commitment to promoting inclusive sports, equal opportunities and dignity for persons with disabilities, while creating platforms where talented wheelchair athletes can demonstrate their abilities.
Traffic Head Constable killed in Qazigund
Kulgam, Sep 19:A traffic police head constable was killed after being hit by a truck while performing his duty near Shampora Bridge in Qazigund area of south Kashmirs Kulgam district on Saturday, officials said. The deceased was identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, son of Abdul Sabir Bhat, a resident of Kulpora village in the Srandoo area of Kulgam. An official said Bhat was struck by a truck bearing registration number JK03Q-9011 near Shampora Bridge in Qazigund while performing his duty in the morning. The speeding truck reportedly lost control and hit him, leaving him seriously injured. He later died on the spot, the official said. Police reached the spot following the accident and took cognizance of the incident. Proceedings were initiated to ascertain the circumstances leading to the accident. Later, DIG Traffic Kashmir, SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir, SSP Kulgam and other senior police officers attended Bhats funeral procession at his native Kulpora village. The officers joined the bereaved family, colleagues and local residents in paying their last respects to Bhat. A large number of police personnel and locals participated in the funeral and expressed solidarity with the bereaved family. The officers conveyed their condolences to the family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
FICCI FLO JKL announces Marathon 4.0 in collaboration with Jammu Tourism
FICCI FLO Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh held a press conference on Saturday to announce Marathon 4.0, scheduled for 4 October 2026, with the core objective of supporting the establishment of Jammus first exclusive Womens Skilling Centre. The marathon, as per a statement, will start and finish at Four A Resort, following the scenic Four A ResortParmandalFour A Resort circuit. Organised in collaboration with Jammu Tourism, the event will feature 21 KM Half Marathon, 10 KM, 5 KM and 3 KM categories. Manjal Auto is the Prime Platinum Sponsor. With 600+ registrations already received, the marathon is witnessing an encouraging response from runners across the region. Speaking at the press conference, Varsha Bansal, Chairperson, FICCI FLO JKL, said, Marathon 4.0 is a marathon with a heart. It is not just about running; it is about creating opportunities for women to learn, become skilled and build sustainable livelihoods. Every step taken on this route will contribute to a larger purpose of womens empowerment. She highlighted that the route was consciously selected in collaboration with Jammu Tourism to showcase and promote the Four A ResortParmandal circuit, a beautiful tourism circuit of Jammu. The initiative complements the Governments efforts towards developing and promoting new tourism circuits in the region. Kanupriya Garg, Race Director, elaborated on the runner-focused arrangements, including multiple hydration points, medical and safety support, route management and measures to ensure the wellbeing of participants. She also highlighted the significance of introducing this distinctive route and giving runners an opportunity to experience Jammu beyond its conventional city routes. The press conference was attended by Varsha Bansal, Chairperson, FICCI FLO JKL; Varuna Anand, National Initiative Head Textiles & Handicrafts; Ruchika Gupta, Past Chairperson; Rupika Sahai, Senior Vice Chairperson; Sona Mehta, Vice Chairperson; Kanupriya Garg, Race Director; and Shipra Agarwal, Treasurer. With 600+ registrations, FICCI FLO JKL looks forward to bringing together the running community, families, corporates and citizens for a marathon that brings together fitness, tourism, womens empowerment and social impact.
Judicial Officer Yash Paul Bourney appointed as J&K, Ladakh HC Judge
Srinagar, Sep 19:The President of India on Saturday appointed senior judicial officer Yash Paul Bourney as a Judge of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. A notification issued in this regard by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice attests to the appointment of Bourney as J&K and Ladakh High Court Judge. On September 10, the Supreme Court Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant and comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice B V Nagarathna had approved the proposal for his appointment as a Judge of the High Court. Bourney, having nearly three decades of judicial experience, is a District and Sessions Judge in the Super Time Scale. He has been presently serving on deputation as a Member of the J&K Special Born on August 25, 1967, Bourney is a native of Village Dadwara, Bhaddu, Billawar, Kathua. He completed his B Sc and LL B from the University of Jammu and enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 1992. He joined as Munsiff, Civil Judge Junior Division-cum-Judicial Magistrate First Class at Billawar in May 1996. In December 1997, he was inducted into regular service after qualifying the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Service (Judicial) examination with seventh rank. He was promoted as Sub Judge/Civil Judge Senior Division in June 2001 and as District and Sessions Judge in August 2011. He was granted Selection Grade in April 2018 and Super-time Scale in October 2021. During his judicial career, Bourney served as District Mobile Magistrate (Traffic), Udhampur, Sub Judge, Jammu, Chief Judicial Magistrate in Jammu and Srinagar, Principal District Judge, Leh, and Special Judge Anti-Corruption. As Chief Judicial Magistrate in Jammu and Srinagar, he introduced measures for systematic indexing and numbering of papers in charge-sheets and affixation of photographs of accused persons, aimed at preventing impersonation and other malpractices. As Principal District Judge, Leh, he supervised the design and construction of the Munsiff Court at Nubra and undertook modifications of the ADR Centre at Leh. As Special Judge Anti-Corruption, Bourney dealt with numerous cases involving corruption, organised crime and alleged land grabbing of private and State land. He was also chosen to conduct the trial of the BOPEE admission scam involving admissions to medical colleges. The case involved 54 accused and, according to his service profile, resulted in the conviction of 44 accused. Bourney also served as Member Secretary of the State Legal Services Authority for five months in 2018, during which budgetary allocations were secured from the State Government for legal-aid activities. As Principal District and Sessions Judge, Udhampur, he took suo motu cognizance of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances lying undisposed in judicial malkhanas for years and initiated steps for their disposal in accordance with Central Government notifications. Bourney also served as Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Judicial Academy, where he worked on strengthening infrastructure and training facilities. He prepared a training module for 69 newly selected Civil Judges (Junior Division), which was approved by the Governing Committee of the Academy and the Chief Justice, following which the training programme commenced at the Judicial Academy, Srinagar.
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LPG subsidy: Aadhaar biometric authentication mandatory for subsidised refills from Oct 1
New Delhi, Sep 19: Domestic LPG consumers will have to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication to book refills at the regulated retail selling price with applicable subsidy from October 1, the government said on Saturday, as it seeks to ensure subsidised cooking gas reaches only eligible households. Consumers who have already completed the authentication will not need to take any further action. As of September 19, 27.43 crore active domestic LPG consumers, or 89.9 per cent of the total, had completed biometric Aadhaar authentication, according to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry. For those yet to complete the process, subsidised refill booking will be enabled once authentication is completed, the ministry said in a statement. The government said the measure is aimed at preventing diversion of subsidised domestic cylinders for commercial and industrial use, as well as eliminating duplicate and ineligible connections. Consumers can complete the authentication during LPG delivery, at their distributor's showroom or through the mobile applications of the three state-owned oil marketing companies - IndianOil ONE for Indane, HelloBPCL for Bharatgas and HP PAY for HP Gas. Those unwilling or unable to complete biometric authentication will still be able to receive LPG, but at the applicable market price without subsidy. Such consumers will have to register their choice through the OMCs' digital channels, including websites, mobile apps, WhatsApp chatbots and IVRS. They can receive 5-kg or 10-kg cylinders, subject to local availability, it said. The government had initially asked consumers to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication by June 30, but subsequently extended the deadline several times to July 31, August 7, August 15, August 23, August 31, September 7 and finally September 14. The nationwide authentication drive has been underway since October 2023, with oil marketing companies sending more than 12 crore SMS and WhatsApp messages and conducting outreach through distributors, delivery personnel, special camps, IVRS prompts and other channels. The latest move comes against the backdrop of the government's substantial fiscal support for keeping domestic LPG affordable. The implicit subsidy for a 14.2-kg cylinder was around Rs 210 in September 2026, compared to Rs 721 in June, according to the ministry. The government paid public-sector oil marketing companies Rs 22,000 crore in compensation for domestic LPG under-recoveries in 2022-23 and is paying Rs 30,000 crore in each of 2025-26 and 2026-27, the ministry said. Despite this support, accumulated under-recoveries on domestic LPG at state-owned OMCs exceeded Rs 62,000 crore as of August 31, 2026. The authentication requirement effectively creates a distinction between subsidised LPG and market-priced LPG from October 1. For eligible households, completing BAA before booking the next refill will be important to avoid losing access to the regulated subsidised price. For the government and OMCs, the stated objective is to make subsidy delivery more targeted and reduce leakage by ensuring each subsidised connection is linked to an Aadhaar-authenticated consumer. The government has urged the remaining consumers to complete authentication before October 1 through the available online, distributor or delivery-based channels. The LPG services helpline is 1800 2333 555.
No permission sought or issued for proposed Gurez event, says govt
Srinagar, Sep 19: Assistant Director Tourism Gulmarg today clarified regarding social media post circulated through the twitter handle Tantra in silence at Gurez that his office has neither granted any permission nor issued any authorization for conducting the said event, through an official communication. It further stated that, his office has no information or official communication regarding the proposed event referred to in the said social media post. No application seeking permission for the event has been received or processed by this office, reads the clarification. It further clarified that the said proposed event has not been authorized/approved by the Office of the Assistant Director Tourism, Gulmarg, and this office has no association with the organization or conduct of the event mentioned in the social media post. District Information Office, Bandipora also clarified that no permission has been granted to the event by the district administration. In a post on X, Information & PR, Bandipora said: Gurez Tantra Silence Retreat Unauthorised; No permission has been granted to the said event by District Administration Bandipora. Public/tourists are advised not to rely on or share such unauthorised promotional claims. Earlier former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and Kashmirs chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq had expressed grave concern over the proposed conduct of the event in Kashmir valley, and called for immediate action by the authorities.
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NIA court rejects joint bail plea of 3 accused in 2022 Jammu terror attack case
Jammu, Sep 19: A special court has rejected a joint bail application of three accused arrested in a case related to an April 2022 terror attack near here ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Samba, citing the gravity of the offences and the material on record. An assistant sub-inspector of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was killed and several security personnel were injured in the attack on their vehicle in the Sunjwan area on the outskirts of Jammu on the intervening night of April 21 and 22, 2022. The two attackers, identified as Pakistani nationals affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad, were subsequently killed in retaliatory action and a huge quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from them. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing the case. Rejecting the bail applications of the arrested accused -- Shafeeq Ahmad Sheikh, Bilal Ahmad Wagay and Mohd Ishaq Chopan, all residents of south Kashmir -- Special Judge, NIA court, Prem Sagar, observed on September 17 that there was sufficient evidence to presume that the accusations against the accused were prima facie true. The accused had sought bail, citing the delay in trial and their prolonged incarceration, among other grounds. The court said the delay in trial is not good ground, particularly in militancy related cases. In the present case, delay in trial is not attributable to prosecution. Moreover, time and again, it has been held by apex court and different high courts that delay in trial cannot be considered as good ground for granting bail by trial court. Such a plea can only be raised before constitutional court and not before the trial court. So this ground for bail is outrightly rejected, the court said in its 27-page order. It also noted that the trial was already underway and witnesses were being examined. Material available on record indicates the involvement of the applicants in furtherance of conspiracy for unlawful activities, which needs to be corroborated from other relevant witnesses yet to be examined..., the court said. ...in such a scenario, if the applicants are released on bail, there is every likelihood that they will influence the key witnesses of the case which might hamper the process of justice, it said. The trio are accused of receiving infiltrated terrorists in Samba district, transporting them to Jammu city and arranging safe shelter for them. They are also accused of providing similar assistance to other groups of terrorists in the past and facilitating their movement to the valley. In the present case, the applicants are facing trial for alleged commission of offences as being part of a criminal conspiracy to commit serious offences like in present case, which is punishable with death or imprisonment, the court said. The court accordingly rejected the joint bail application of the three accused, keeping in view the nature and gravity of the offences and the larger interest of the State and Union territory.
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NC calls legislature party meeting tomorrow in Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 19: The ruling National Conference has convened a meeting of its legislature party on Sunday afternoon to devise a strategy to counter the opposition during the upcoming autumn session starting September 21. As per news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), the NC has called a meeting of its legislators and Independent members supporting the Government tomorrow at 4:30 PM at the Banquet Hall, Srinagar. The meeting will be held under the chairmanship of Dr. Farooq Abdullah, President of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, in the presence of Omar Abdullah, Leader of the Legislature Party and Chief Minister of J&K. The party has directed all MLAs to attend the meeting.
Centre amends Inter-State Council rules: UT LGs to be part of meetings if Presidents rule imposed
New Delhi, Sep 19: President Droupadi Murmu has amended the rules governing the Inter-State Council to allow the lieutenant governors of Puducherry, Jammu and Kashmir, and Delhi to participate in the council meetings when President's rule is imposed these Union territories. The amendment, notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs on September 9 and published on Friday, amends the Inter-State Council Order, 1990, which had established the council. According to the May 1990 order, the council consists of the prime minister, chief ministers of all states, specified Union Territory representatives, and six Union ministers of Cabinet rank. Its proviso, introduced in July that year, addressed the attendance of a governor when a proclamation under Article 356 was in force in their respective states, or when the order issued by the governor of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir under section 92 of the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir was in force. In 2019, Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, after Article 370 was abrogated. The 2026 order replaces that July 1990 proviso with a four-part provision. It retains the provision for a state under Article 356, specifying that he governor of that state shall be invited to attend the meetings of the Council. It then adds three provisions covering Union territories with assemblies. The amendment provides for the lieutenant governor's participation in the council meetings when the president's rule is imposed under the respective provisions of the laws governing the three Union Territories with assemblies -- Puducherry, Jammu and Kashmir, and the NCT of Delhi. For Puducherry, it provides that when an order under Section 51 of the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963, is in force, he lieutenant governor of the Union territory of Puducherry shall be invited to attend the meetings of the council. Where an order issued by the president under section 73 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (34 of 2019) in relation to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is in force, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall be invited to attend the meetings of the council, it said. The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi will be invited when an order under Article 239 AB is in force, it said. President's rule is imposed when there is a failure of the Constitutional machinery in a state or a Union territory.
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If everything needs statehood, why are we in government?: Sunil Sharma
Srinagar, Sep 19: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma on Saturday questioned the Omar Abdullah-led government over what he described as its repeated use of statehood as a response to basic public grievances, asking why the government was in office if it lacked the authority to address routine issues. Addressing a public interaction programme in Srinagar, Sharma said people were approaching the government with problems related to water, electricity, roads, schools, hospitals and jobs but were repeatedly being told that the administration lacked the required powers. For every issue, whether small or big, the only answer that comes from the government and government machinery is that we have no powers, Sharma said. He said the elected government had completed two years but people were still facing frustration and confusion. The popular government has completed two years, and throughout these two years, we have brought the poor people to a position of frustration and confusion, he said. Sharma said the Opposition had a responsibility to engage with people when the government failed to address their concerns. He said his party's legislative group would take up issues raised by people in the upcoming Assembly session and also pursue matters requiring intervention from the Centre. He, however, questioned the government's explanation that several problems could not be addressed because Jammu and Kashmir had not yet regained statehood. Where pipes had to be connected, where poles and wires were required, where schools needed staff, where hospitals needed doctors and paramedics, where potholes on roads had to be filled, for every issue the same answer was received statehood is not there, he said. Sharma then questioned the purpose of the elected government and the Assembly if statehood was being cited as the answer to basic administrative problems. If at the end of two years we say that we need statehood even to install poles, wires and pipes, and we need statehood even to provide staff, then why are we in government? Why are we in the Assembly? he asked. He went further and said the government should consider dissolving the present arrangement rather than continue for the full five-year term if it believed it could not function without statehood. If after two years we still have the same answer, I feel that after five years the same answer will be repeated, Sharma said. He said unemployment, particularly among young people, would be among the major issues for the Opposition during the upcoming Assembly session. Referring to data presented during the interaction, he said people aged between 19 and 29 accounted for more than 32% of Jammu and Kashmir's population. This section is the largest in Jammu and Kashmir's population and is currently under stress and depression, Sharma said, arguing that many young people had no income to support their parents, pay for siblings' education or meet family responsibilities. He also criticised the government's approach to recruitment and outsourcing, claiming that 25,000 jobs had already been occupied through outsourcing. You have occupied 25,000 jobs. I say this with a guarantee that these 25,000 will not be advertised again, he said. Sharma said outsourced employees could themselves begin demanding regularisation in the future, adding that workers from different government schemes and departments were already seeking regularisation. He also accused the government of trying to play the role of the Opposition while retaining the privileges of being in power. The unfortunate thing is that the people sitting in government also want to do the work of the Opposition, Sharma said. The government also wants to remain in the Opposition, but wants to enjoy all the power. On the upcoming Assembly session, Sharma said there were numerous issues to be raised but questioned the limited number of sitting days. He also contrasted the government's claim that Jammu and Kashmir had more Assembly sittings, on average, than some other states, with the region's specific problems. Jammu and Kashmir's issues are different. There are so many issues here on a single platform. So a response like this makes a person ask: where should we go, whom should we speak to? he said. Sharma also defended the Opposition's public outreach programme, saying it was intended to hear people's grievances and take them to the appropriate forums. On statehood, he said the issue should not be used as a blanket explanation for administrative shortcomings. I am raising the slogan of statehood only to strengthen my vote bank, he said, while adding that statehood was not preventing the government from dealing with most of the issues being raised by people. Sharma's remarks came ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, with the BJP seeking to focus attention on unemployment, recruitment, public services and what it describes as the government's failure to address people's day-to-day grievances.
LG Saxena empowers Naib-Tehsildars to issue reserved category, income certificates in Ladakh
Leh , Sep 19: In a step towards making essential government services more accessible to people in remote areas of Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Saturday empowered Naib-Tehsildars, holding independent charge of a Tehsil, to issue reserved category and income certificates within their respective local jurisdiction. The Revenue Department, UT Ladakh, has issued the notification under the proviso to Section 13 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004, investing the designated Naib-Tehsildars with powers to issue Reserved Category Certificates and Income Certificates within the local limits of their respective jurisdiction, a Lok Bhavan spokesperson said. The notification specifically empowers Naib-Tehsildars who are holding independent charge of a Tehsil and exercising the powers of Assistant Collector of the First Class, for issuing such certificates. The powers will be exercised within their respective local limits and jurisdiction, he said. In a Union Territory like Ladakh, where difficult terrain and long distances can make access to government offices challenging, it is our responsibility to take governance closer to the people. By empowering revenue officers at the local level to issue these certificates, we are making an important citizen service more accessible and reducing the need for people to undertake long journeys for routine administrative requirements, the lieutenant governor said. The decision aims to reduce the difficulties faced by residents, particularly those living in remote and far-flung areas, who otherwise have to travel long distances to obtain certificates required to access various government schemes, benefits, reservations, and other services, the spokesperson said. By decentralising the certification process, the administration seeks to make these services more accessible, convenient, and responsive to citizens' needs, he said. The initiative forms part of the administrations broader effort to take governance and public services closer to the people, particularly those residing in geographically remote and difficult-to-access areas of the Union Territory, he added.
Police apprehend 7 drug traffickers in separate operations in Anantnag
Srinagar, Sep 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police in Anantnag have arrested seven drug peddlers in separate actions and recovered substantial quantity of contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that a police party from Police Station Srigufwara apprehended three drug peddlers at Hatigam Crossing while they were travelling on a Scooty bearing registration number JK13K-5967. The accused were identified as Jahangir Ayoub son of M. Ayoub Fashoo resident of Zirpara Bijbehara, Amanul Azam son of Ab. Waheed Dar resident of Dogripora, Awantipora and Sahib Amin son of M. Amin Dar resident of Dogripora, Awantipora. During search, 1.378 Kgs of Ganja and 12 grams of Charas were recovered from their possession. In another action, two drug peddlers were apprehended by PS Srigufwara at Nowshara Crossing. They were identified as Basit Rashid Bhat son of Ab. Rashid resident of Hugam and Mujeeb Mudasir Bhat son of Mudasir Mukhtar resident of Khiram Durpora. 1.740 Kgs of Ganja was recovered from their possession, he said. Moreover, a police party from Police Post Sherbagh apprehended Mohd Rafiq Mochi son of Habib-ullah Mochi resident of Furrah, Mirbazaar at Sarnal Chicken Mohalla on High Ground Road. During search, 20 grams of Charas was recovered from his possession. Similarly, a police party of Police Post Sangam apprehended Muna son of Makho resident of Kehri Lakempora, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in the Sangam area while he tried to attempt to flee. During search, 23 grams of Charas was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigation has been initiated, spokesperson said. Police reiterated its firm resolve to dismantle the drug network and take strict legal action against those involved in drug trafficking and peddling.
