Meet Shannon Hoffman, the conservationist saving Africas bone-eating vultures
Tarigami seeks probe, removal of Chief Election Commissioner over SIR
Wild Burmese python lays eggs containing twin and triplet embryos in Florida
Scientists discover silk traces on 101 ancient objects in China, uncover clues to ancient rituals
Australias stingless bees may help fight antibiotic resistance
Russian man suffers months of headaches after seed sprouts in his eye
BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur says cabinet expansion has not gone down well with several NC MLAs
Kashmir's diyas take shape ahead of Diwali
In the heart of Ishber, Nishat, Srinagar, Umar Kumar is keeping the age-old tradition of pottery alive by crafting traditional earthen diyas with his hands. With simple tools and years of experience, he carefully shapes clay into beautiful lamps, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. As the festive season approaches, these handmade diyas remind us of the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and the importance of preserving our age-old art. Despite changing times and modern alternatives, artisans like Umar Kumar continue to keep this traditional craft alive Report: Mubashir Khan
J&K police in Shopian bust jail-linked terror fund-raising module, 10 arrested
Shopian, Oct 30: Police in south Kashmirs Shopian district have arrested 10 people for allegedly raising funds to finance militant activities linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and The Resistance Front (TRF), a police statement said on Friday. The arrests followed an investigation into suspected financial networks linked to militant activities. Police analysed suspicious online transactions conducted through various payment platforms and traced money trails across multiple layers, the statement said. The investigation revealed a wider network of individuals allegedly involved in terror financing and linked to militants and their associates lodged in different jails across the union territory, police said. Ten people have so far been arrested in connection with the case. A first information report (FIR No. 231/2026) has been registered at Shopian police station under relevant sections of law, the statement said. The arrested persons were identified as Owais Shafi Naikoo, son of Mohammad Shafi Naikoo of Saidpora Bala, Shopian; Tajamul Ahmad Shah, son of Ab. Rashid Shah of Rawalpora, Shopian; Moiz Iqbal, son of Mohammad Iqbal Hajam, and Imdad Yousuf Ganie, son of Mohd Yousuf Ganie, both residents of Chitragam Kalan. The others were identified as Saqib Zahoor Wani, son of Zahoor Ahmad Wani, and Liyaqat Nazir Lone, son of Nazir Ahmad Lone, both residents of Murran, Pulwama; Aamir Ahmad Ganie, son of Gh Nabi Ganie of Armolah, Pulwama; Firdous Thokar, son of Gh Qadir Thokar of Nadigund, Trenz; and Mohd Hanief, son of Kaju Sheru, and Kaju, son of Haji Sheeru, both residents of Check Haria, Kathua, police said. Initial investigations indicated that the accused were allegedly collecting money clandestinely from the public and channelling it through established financial networks to support the activities of LeT and TRF, police said. The funds were also allegedly being used to provide logistical support, including smartphones, to facilitate militant activities, the statement said. Further investigations are under way to establish additional financial links, identify other people involved in the network and determine its wider reach. More arrests are expected, police said. Police said the operation was part of efforts, in coordination with other security agencies, to dismantle networks supporting militancy and disrupt unlawful financial channels across Jammu and Kashmir.
Srinagar, Oct 30: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed ur Rehman Para on Friday flagged a potential revenue loss of Rs 1,000 crore to Jammu and Kashmir after the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh struck down provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010, relating to water usage charges on hydropower projects. Reacting to the court ruling, Para said the High Court had quashed the demand notices dating back to 2010, raising questions over the administration's handling of the case. Pertinantly, the High Court, in its ruling, held that the levy of water usage charges on hydropower projects amounted to a tax on electricity generation, a subject beyond the legislative competence of the erstwhile J&K legislature. It declared the relevant provisions of the 2010 Act ultra vires the Constitution and quashed the consequential demand notices. MLA Pulwama further questioned the absence of an Advocate General for nearly two years and pointed out that the Law Department was under the Chief Minister, expressing concern over the administration's legal preparedness to defend Jammu and Kashmir's interests. If this is how we defend our interests, what hope is there for the statehood case? Para asked in a post on X.
What fault have our people committed? Sakina Itoo questions prolonged convoy halts
Srinagar, Oct 30: Minister for Health and Medical Education and Social Welfare Sakina Itoo on Friday questioned why ordinary citizens of Jammu and Kashmir have to wait for hours for convoy movement, asking, What fault have our people committed to endure such hardships? While travelling frequently on the SrinagarAnantnagKulgamQazigund National Highway, it is deeply distressing to see ambulances stranded, students missing classes and ordinary citizens waiting 1530 minutes, sometimes even hours, for convoy movement, the minister said in a post on X. Security is paramount, Itoo said, but so is the well-being of the people. She said security and compassion must go hand in hand. Let governance be reflected not just in policies, but in the everyday lives of citizens through dignity, sensitivity and meaningful relief, she added. Itoo urged LG Manoj Sinha and other concerned authorities to explore practical traffic management measures that uphold essential security protocols while ensuring uninterrupted passage for ambulances and minimising public inconvenience.
India says AI, maritime security key priorities for its UNSC candidature for 202829
United Nations, Oct 30: Maritime security and Artificial Intelligence will be key priorities for India during its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term, India's envoy to the UN has said. Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, said on Thursday that technology must make shared maritime commons safer, not more contested. Oceans are the arteries of global commerce, connecting economies, sustaining livelihoods and ensuring food and energy security. Their safety and security are indispensable to international peace and prosperity, Parvathaneni said. Addressing the high-level open debate on Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security at the Security Council, India has identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) and maritime security as important priorities for its candidature to the Security Council for 20282029. Parvathaneni said that emerging technologies are fundamentally transforming the maritime domain. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, satellite-based surveillance and advanced cyber capabilities offer unprecedented opportunities to strengthen maritime security. Equally, their misuse presents new challenges that demand our collective attention, he said. Our objective is clear: technology must strengthen human security, not undermine it; it must expand opportunity, not inequality; and it must make our shared maritime commons safer, not more contested. India stands ready to work with all partners towards this objective, he said. India stressed that technological advances must not deepen existing disparities. Developing countries require access to technology, training and institutional capabilities to secure their maritime infrastructure and participate meaningfully in shaping technological governance, Parvathaneni said. New Delhi has announced its candidature for a non-permanent seat at the Security Council for the 2028-29 term, elections for which will be conducted in June next year, when India and Tajikistan will compete for the sole seat in the Asia-Pacific Group category. Parvathaneni underscored the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and maritime commerce, saying recent attacks against commercial shipping have demonstrated how disruptions at critical maritime chokepoints can have consequences far beyond their immediate geography. They threaten seafarers, disrupt supply chains and disproportionately affect developing countries through higher costs and economic uncertainty, he said, reiterating Indias strong condemnation of attacks against commercial vessels. He said Delhi reiterates the importance of freedom of navigation, unimpeded lawful maritime commerce and the safety of seafarers, in accordance with international law. Highlighting the need to harness technology to strengthen maritime security, Parvathaneni said AI-enabled analysis of satellite imagery, radar and vessel-tracking data can improve maritime domain awareness, detect suspicious activities and support search and rescue operations. In this context, India's Information Fusion CentreIndian Ocean Region, located near New Delhi, demonstrates the value of cooperation and information-sharing in strengthening maritime security. Our approach is guided by the vision of SAGAR Security and Growth for All in the Region and the broader commitment to inclusive maritime cooperation, he said. Calling on the international community to address emerging technological vulnerabilities, he said increasing digitalisation and automation also expose ports, vessels, communication networks and undersea infrastructure to cyber threats. The proliferation of autonomous systems raises complex questions of attribution, accountability and unintended escalation. We must therefore ensure appropriate safeguards, meaningful human oversight and clear responsibility in the deployment of emerging technologies, he said. India emphasised that the UN Charter and international law, including the law of the sea as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), provide the essential framework for State conduct. India also called for strengthening international cooperation while respecting institutional mandates, saying the work of the International Maritime Organisation and other relevant institutions must be reinforced, not duplicated. The Security Council should focus on technological developments with demonstrable implications for international peace and security, encouraging practical cooperation, confidence-building and resilience, Parvathaneni said. The debate was held under Greeces Presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. In September, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had co-chaired an event AI in the Context of International Peace & Security, with an Emphasis on Maritime Security, alongside Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis on the margins of the high-level UN General Assembly week. Jaishankar had emphasized the need to harness the possibilities offered by AI, anticipate its consequences and mitigate its risks. He had stressed that in the maritime domain, AI can enhance maritime domain awareness, search and rescue, disaster response, identification of suspicious activity and resilience of ports and critical infrastructure.
Enjoy the flavours of West Bengal through this pop-up in Mumbai next week
A collaboration between Bandra eatery Kari Apla and Bengal-based Earth Story Farms, brings family recipes and lesser-known ingredients from the eastern state to the table
Netanyahu, chief rival fall short of parliamentary majority, leaving path to government unclear
Jerusalem, Oct 30: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his chief rival, Gadi Eisenkot, have both fallen short of securing a parliamentary majority, Israel's final election results show, leaving a path to forming a government unclear. Results released early Friday showed the pro-Netanyahu bloc winning 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, and 48 seats for Eisenkot's bloc. Two Arab-led parties won the remaining 19 seats.
Bombay HC tells Shreya Life to rename antibiotic drug
The Bombay High Court has ordered the removal of Shreya Life Sciences antibiotic trademark Lefoxin Biox from the register, ruling that it was too similar to Glaxo Groups long-established heart drug Lanoxin. The court gave Shreya until December 31 to rebrand and communicate the change, with the new name to take effect from January 1, 2027.
JKEEGA delegation welcomes Power Minister, assures cooperation
Srinagar, Oct 29:A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Engineering Graduates Association (JKEEGA), headed by its General Secretary, Er. Pirzada Mohammad Hidayatullah, warmly welcomed the Power Minister, Ali Mohammad Sagar, and assured him of the Associations full cooperation in working towards the overall betterment of the Power Department. During the interaction, the delegation, as per a statement issued, emphasised its commitment to working in close coordination with the Government to strengthen the power sector, improve operational efficiency, and ensure better electricity services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation highlighted the importance of collective efforts and constructive engagement between the Government and the engineering fraternity to address departmental challenges and achieve sustainable progress. The Power Minister appreciated the delegations positive approach and assured it that all possible support and assistance would be extended from his side for the betterment of the department and the resolution of genuine concerns of the engineering fraternity. The delegation expressed its gratitude to the Minister for his positive response and supportive assurance, reiterating that JKEEGA would continue to work constructively with the Government in the larger interest of the Power Department and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The others who were part of delegation comprised of Er. Fayaz Wani, Er Nisar A Rather ,Er Hur e Yasrab ,Er. Farhan Shah, Er. Tufail Ahmad Khan, Er. Asif Iqbal ,Er. Mubashir Inam, Er Khuram Nazir ,Er Yawar Fayaz bhat and Er. Aamir Masoodi.
DIPR organises Cultural Programme celebrating humour, music in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 29:The Cultural Unit Kashmir of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir, organised a day-long cultural programme, Hansi Ke Rang, Sangeet Ke Sang, at Pt. Bhajan Sopori Auditorium, Srinagar, on Thursday. The programme, as per an official statement, dedicated to humour, music and cultural expression, featured a humorous mushaira and live musical performances by Kohinoor Band. The programme was presided over by Director Information and Public Relations, Mamta Yadav, Joint Director Headquarter Zahoor Ahmad Raina, Joint Director Information Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, Deputy Director Information PR Javaid Ahmad Rather, Deputy Director Information (Central) Kashmir Zubair Ahmed, Deputy Director PR Kashmir Mohammad Rafiq Zullah, Cultural Officer Abdul Raqib Bhat, besides other officers, noted artists, writers, poets and scholars, attended the event.
NPPA list brings little relief: No price cut for 25% cancer drugs
Nearly one in four cancer drug packs in the NPPAs revised price list will see no reduction in MRP, even as the overall average cut across 643 packs is 38.22%. Several high-cost patented medicines remain unchanged, prompting patient advocates to question how much relief the trade-margin cap will actually deliver when the new prices take effect on November 9.
GVEI students win Rs 2.5 lakh at Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 for safety innovation
Srinagar, Oct 29: Green Valley Educational Institute, Srinagar, has earned national recognition as its student innovation, Guardian Bridge, emerged as a winning entry at the Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025. Developed at the schools Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL), this safety prototype, as per a statement, uses sensors, an Arduino-based system and automated protective panels to help prevent accidents and suicide attempts on bridges. The project was developed by Arhaan Ahmed, Ahmed Ali, Mohd Muntaha and Mannat Jan under the mentorship of Nauf Nissa, ATL In-charge. The students were accompanied by Mearaj Ud Din. The team received a congratulatory communication from the Innovation Cell, AICTE, Ministry of Education, Government of India, and an invitation to the Buildathons Guinness Presentation Event. GVEI congratulates the young innovators and their mentor on this remarkable achievement.
NC Womens Wing congratulates Shamim Firdous on induction into Cabinet
Srinagar, Oct 29: The leaders and office-bearers of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Women's Wing Thursday visited the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar to congratulate newly appointed Cabinet Minister Advocate Shamim Firdous on assuming her ministerial portfolio. The delegation, as per a party statement, welcomed her with garlands and conveyed its best wishes. The delegation was led by Er. Sabiya Qadri, Provincial President of the JKNC Women's Wing, Kashmir. The women leaders expressed gratitude to JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for inducting Advocate Shamim Firdous into the Council of Ministers. With her induction, the number of women ministers in the Cabinet has risen to two. Several legislators, public delegations and party representatives also met Shamim Firdous and congratulated her on her new responsibility. Expressing gratitude to the party leadership, the minister said she would endeavour to discharge her responsibilities with honesty, sincerity and dedication, honouring the trust placed in her. She urged Women's Wing office-bearers to further strengthen the organisation at the grassroots level and maintain close coordination with party workers to deepen engagement with the public. Recalling the contributions of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and Madar-e-Meherban Begum Akbar Jehan Abdullah, the minister highlighted their historic role in promoting education and empowering women in Jammu and Kashmir. She noted that, through the vision and sustained efforts of these great leaders, the literacy rate in the region had risen from approximately six per cent to 82 per cent. Shamim Firdous also paid tribute to Begum Akbar Jehan Abdullah for her pioneering contributions to women's education, welfare and empowerment. She emphasised the need to carry forward her mission by creating greater opportunities for women and encouraging their participation in public life.
3.6 magnitude earthquake strikes Kulgam in south Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 30: An earthquake of magnitude 3.6 struck Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir in the early hours of Friday, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The earthquake occurred at 1:00:46 am IST at a depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre located at latitude 33.628 N and longitude 74.922 E, the NCS said. Further details were awaited.
Sagar visits Srinagar areas, reviews development projects
Srinagar, Oct 29:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference senior leader and Cabinet Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar Thursday visited several areas of Srinagar city after assuming charge of ministerial portfolio. During the visit, as per a party statement, he reviewed ongoing construction and development projects at various locations and interacted with local residents to learn about their problems, difficulties and demands. People accorded him a warm and enthusiastic welcome at several places, presenting him with garlands and conveying their best wishes. Later Sagar paid obeisance at the revered shrine of Dargah Hazratbal, Dastgeer Sahib at Khanyar, dedicated to Hazrat Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA), and Khanqah-e-Moula, associated with Hazrat Mir Syed Ali Hamadani (RA). He underwent Dastar Bandi at all three revered shrines and offered prayers for the prosperity of the Muslim Ummah, the well-being of humanity, and the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He was accompanied by MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar. Party office-bearers and workers also met him at various locations and extended their congratulations. Sagar urged party workers and office-bearers to maintain close contact with the public, remain consistently aware of their concerns and difficulties, and work with sincerity and dedication to meet public expectations. He also stressed the need to further strengthen the National Conference at the grassroots level. Sagar expressed gratitude to party President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for reposing their trust in him and entrusting him with important responsibilities. He said he would make every possible effort to live up to the expectations of the party leadership, the organisation, its workers and the people. He reiterated his commitment to serving the public and further strengthening the party's organisational structure.
Downtown Heroes FC calls for collective support for Real Kashmir FC
Srinagar, Oct 29: Downtown Heroes Football Club has expressed its unwavering support for Real Kashmir Football Club, describing the club as a source of pride for Jammu & Kashmir and an important symbol of the regions growing footballing aspirations. In a statement issued by the Downtown Heroes FC, the club stated that Real Kashmir FC represents more than just a football team. It embodies the dreams, passion, and determination of Kashmiri footballers and the hopes of thousands of football lovers across the region. Real Kashmir FC is our pride, and we stand with them. Our support is not limited to one club; it is a message of unity with the entire football fraternity of Jammu & Kashmir. When a club representing our region needs support, the football community must come together and stand united, Downtown Heroes Football Club said. The club has appealed to football clubs, players, coaches, officials, academies, and supporters across Jammu & Kashmir to show their support for Real Kashmir FC. As a symbolic gesture, the club has encouraged members of the football fraternity to change their social media display pictures (DPs) to Real Kashmir FC and spread a message of unity and collective support. Downtown Heroes Football Club emphasised that unity among football stakeholders is essential for protecting the interests of the game, encouraging young talent, and strengthening the future of football in Jammu & Kashmir. The club further stated that football is bigger than any individual, institution, or organisation, and that the collective interests of the regions football community should always remain a priority. Concluding its message, Downtown Heroes Football Club reiterated: We stand with Real Kashmir FC. We stand with the football fraternity of Jammu & Kashmir. This is a time for unity, support, and collective strength.
Building boom puts 300,000 people at risk of Himalayan disasters: study
New Delhi, Oct 29: At least 300,000 people in parts of the Himalayan region could be living in areas vulnerable to floods, landslides and other disasters amid a rapid construction boom, a new study has found, the BBC in an article reported. The peer-reviewed study, published in Scientific Reports, found that built-up land in high-risk areas of northern Nepal, south-eastern Tibet and parts of Uttarakhand increased by around 45 per cent between 2016 and 2023. Development in areas particularly threatened by glacial lake floods rose by nearly 78 per cent. The researchers warned that the actual number of people at risk could be considerably higher. The BBC report attributed the growing danger to rapid urbanisation, poorly planned tourism infrastructure and climate change, which is accelerating glacier melt and increasing the risk of devastating floods. C Scott Watson, the studys lead author and a glaciologist at the University of Leeds, warned that development decisions being taken today would shape disaster risks for decades. The report also highlighted concerns over weak enforcement of building regulations in Uttarakhand, where construction has expanded in vulnerable river valleys.
RKFC to face Nagaland United in IFL opener today
Srinagar, Oct 29: Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) will take on Nagaland United FC in the opening match of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 season at TRC Ground, Srinagar, on Friday (October 30). As per a statement issued, the match will kick off at 6:30 pm and will be played under floodlights. The host club has made the necessary arrangements with support from the administration, particularly the J&K Sports Council, J&K Police and other departments. RKFC will be looking to begin its campaign on a positive note in the league, formerly known as the I-League. The squad comprises local, national and international players, with Ishfaq Ahmad serving as head coach. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ishfaq described Nagaland United FC as a good opponent despite the team's first appearance in the IFL. He said RKFC was ready for the challenge and expressed hope that the home side would secure a favourable result. Arshad Nizam Shawl, owner of Real Kashmir FC, said the club's vision extended beyond football, with a focus on creating opportunities for young people and showcasing local talent. Real Kashmir FC has always stood for something bigger than football. Our vision is to create opportunities for the youth of Kashmir, showcase their extraordinary talent and demonstrate to the world the potential of our people. We want the world to see Kashmir through the lens of football a story of hope, resilience and aspiration. Every match is an opportunity to inspire the next generation and bring people together through sport, Shawl said. The club also expressed gratitude to Secretary Tazayun Mukhtar and the J&K Sports Council for their support and cooperation in facilitating its operations and promoting football in the region. We are thankful to Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, and Tazayun Mukhtar, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, for their encouragement and continued cooperation. Their support is invaluable as we work towards developing football, nurturing young talent and creating greater opportunities for aspiring players across Jammu and Kashmir, Shawl added. RKFC is the only club from Jammu and Kashmir participating in the IFL and has been providing a platform for local footballers to showcase their talent. The club has appealed to football enthusiasts to turn up in large numbers at TRC Ground and support the home team in its opening fixture.
Rajnath Singh offers Indias counter-terrorism expertise to ASEAN partners
New Delhi, Oct 29: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday reaffirmed Indias commitment to regional security and the elimination of terrorism in all its forms, offering to share the countrys operational experience in counter-terrorism with ASEAN partners. Addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus in Cebu, Philippines, Rajnath Singh said Indias counter-terrorism expertise had been gained through decades of confronting complex cross-border security challenges. He said Indias approach had been demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, when the country dismantled terrorist infrastructure and enforced a firm red line against state-sponsored terrorism. Emphasising that terrorism knows no borders, Rajnath Singh said India was ready to strengthen cooperation through joint exercises, capacity-building programmes and intelligence sharing. India and Malaysia are co-chairing the ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism for the 2024-2027 cycle.The Defence Minister reiterated Indias commitment to ASEAN centrality and a secure, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific. He said Indias engagement with ASEAN was rooted in shared interests, mutual respect and practical cooperation. Highlighting maritime security as a key area of cooperation, Rajnath Singh referred to 2026 being designated the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation and the conduct of the second ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise. He said the Indian Navy had maintained an uninterrupted presence in volatile maritime corridors such as the Gulf of Aden since 2008. Indian warships had escorted thousands of merchant vessels and thwarted numerous hijacking attempts, extending protection to commercial shipping irrespective of flag or nationality, he added. Rajnath Singh said India would continue to act as a reliable net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific, stressing the importance of freedom of navigation, international maritime law and the protection of global shipping routes. He underlined that Indias support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and freedom of navigation and overflight was aimed at protecting the collective interests of regional stakeholders, rather than targeting any country. Referring to the meetings theme, Navigating Our Future, Together, Rajnath Singh said regional solidarity, mutual trust and collective responsibility were essential to maintaining peace and stability. He also proposed a dedicated defence Youth Bridge to strengthen people-to-people links between India and ASEAN, promote digital innovation and expand capacity-building opportunities for young people in regional peace and security initiatives.
Samad, Lotra rescue J&K from defeat against Baroda
Srinagar, Oct 29: Sensational centuries from Abdul Samad and a fighting knock from Sahil Lotra helped Jammu and Kashmir salvage a draw against Baroda in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match at the Reliance Cricket Stadium in Vadodara on Thursday. Baroda, however, secured victory on the basis of a first-innings lead after J&K finished their second innings at 316 for six in 96 overs. Forced to follow on after conceding a massive 313-run first-innings lead, J&K were staring at a possible defeat after their top order once again failed to provide a solid foundation. However, Samad and Lotra produced a remarkable fightback, ensuring the visitors batted out the final day to save the match. Samad was the chief architect of the rescue act, hammering a magnificent 143 off just 152 deliveries. His aggressive innings featured 16 fours and seven sixes, as he took the attack to the opposition and shifted the momentum with a display of fearless strokeplay. The right-hander showed his ability to change the course of a match, countering Barodas bowling with an attacking approach when J&K needed it most. At the other end, Lotra displayed tremendous patience and composure, remaining unbeaten on 96 off 240 balls. His innings was built on discipline and resilience, providing the perfect foil to Samads attacking approach. Lotra held his ground and his partnership with Samad proved decisive in taking J&K out of danger. The pair stitched together a crucial 225-run partnership, transforming a precarious situation into one of relative comfort for the visitors. Their contrasting styles, Samads aggression and Lotras calm resistance,proved effective against a Baroda attack that had dominated proceedings for much of the match. J&K had resumed the fourth day under pressure after being asked to follow on. Their first-innings total of 303 had left them 313 runs behind Barodas imposing 616, built around Priyanshu Moliyas unbeaten 321 and Mahesh Pithiyas 102. The visitors second innings initially followed a familiar pattern, with the top order struggling to make an impact. Qamran Iqbal scored 20, Shubham Khajuria managed five, Kawalpreet Singh contributed 22, while captain Paras Dogra fell for one. The early setbacks raised the prospect of Baroda completing a convincing victory. However, Samads counter-attacking century and Lotras determined effort changed the complexion of the contest. After Samad was dismissed for 143, Lotra continued to bat with discipline, ensuring Baroda could not force a result. Rydham Sharma added 11, while Vanshaj Sharma remained unbeaten on one alongside Lotra when the match was drawn. For Baroda, Mahesh Pithiya claimed three wickets, while Rasikh Salam, Bhargav Bhatt and Atit Sheth picked up one wicket each. Priyanshu Moliya was adjudged Player of the Match for his monumental unbeaten 321 in Barodas first innings, which laid the foundation for the hosts first-innings advantage. While J&K managed to avert defeat through a determined batting display, Baroda took the match honours by virtue of their commanding first-innings total.
PM Modi to unveil projects worth Rs 14,000 Cr in Gujarat, release Rs 19,000 Cr under PM-KISAN today
New Delhi, Oct 29:Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate, dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of development projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore in Banaskantha during his two-day visit to Gujarat on October 30-31. He will also release the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme, amounting to around Rs 19,000 crore, providing financial assistance to farmers across the country. In Banaskantha on October 30, PM Modi will dedicate the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre at Bhildi, a 127-acre facility aimed at improving bovine breeding, cattle genetics and reproductive technologies. It will be the countrys first facility of its kind dedicated to the Kankrej cattle breed. The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for two Bio-CNG plants at Tharad and Radhanpur, which will process 75 and 100 metric tonnes of cattle dung per day, respectively. Among the major infrastructure projects are the extensions of Ahmedabad Metro Phase-2 to the airport and GIFT City, and the widening of Ahmedabad-Mehsana Road from four lanes to eight lanes at an estimated cost of Rs 2,600 crore. PM Modi will dedicate 521 projects under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, involving a total project cost of around Rs 4,950 crore, and inaugurate the expansion of a potato processing plant at Sanadar. He will also flag off the Ahmedabad (Sabarmati)-Varanasi Express and Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU services. The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for 4,030 child-friendly Anganwadi centres and inaugurate 361 completed centres in Gujarat. The initiative, involving an investment of Rs800 crore, is expected to benefit more than four lakh people. He will mark the commencement of on-ground activities under 12 approved horticulture clusters spread across approximately 1.46 lakh hectares and expected to benefit over 1.3 lakh farmers. Two clusters in North Gujarat will focus on potatoes. Ekta Nagar events Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, on October 30 to inaugurate Bharat Parv 2026, which will showcase Indias cultural heritage, folk performances, regional cuisines, handicrafts and tourist attractions. The festival will continue until November 15. He will also witness Ekta Prakash Parv, featuring illumination displays highlighting Indias cultural diversity, heritage and development. On October 31, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 400 crore in Ekta Nagar. These include water and sewage treatment facilities, the upgradation of Narmada Ghat, an IRCTC hotel and eco-tourism projects. He will subsequently participate in Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations marking the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity. This years celebrations will have Vande Mataram as the overarching theme, with the Ekta Parade placing special emphasis on the achievements of security forces in combating Left-Wing Extremism and the transition of affected areas towards peace and development. A theatrical presentation on Naxal Mukt Bharat, organised by the National School of Drama, will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 districts affected by Left-Wing Extremism. A separate cultural presentation involving approximately 5,000 artists from across the country will showcase Indias classical and folk traditions.
Reflections on Nature, Fate and Freedom
When we contemplate the vastness of space and time, our little existences seem hopelessly insignificant. Where do we then place Man who has only been around for a time which accounts for less than the momentary batting of an eye compared to the cosmic timeframe. But the cosmos in all its infinity can not belittle Man. In a world of a billion living species, who has the courage to unravel and interpret the deepest mysteries within it. Who is it that can contemplate a trillion galaxies some zillion light years away. Who is it that can subjugate all else so completely and collectively in the interest of his own kind. In fact its the man in all his feebleness who seems to have the audacity to belittle the cosmos and not the other way round. Intimidating as it may sound, many within the human race itself would disavow this characterization as delusional self-aggrandizement. For Spinoza, a 17th century Dutch philosopher, human existence when seen sub specie aeternitatis i.e. from the perspective of eternity, without any shifting influences of time or human emotion, appears to be a part of a single all-encompassing continuum called nature or substance or if you like, God. This way of looking at reality was the point of departure for his monism and it succeeded in, if not obliterating completely, fracturing our self-conceived position in the universe for years to come. Instead of identifying man as an outsider observing reality, this idea confines him within the boundaries of the same reality hes trying to observe. Thus the act of observing nature itself becomes an act of nature. In this way, any semblance of objectivity and hence freedom in mans thought or action is reduced to nothing but a self imposed deception. His fate is sealed by the curse of determinism which for him is impossible to escape at whichever cost. A teenage boy from some prehistoric village in the past had the same disquieting desires as any youngster growing up in the modern world. A woman living in some distant age carried the same unsettling apprehensions as a woman of todays day and age. If we fold up the span of time, wasnt it really the nature which was desiring our desires and thinking our thoughts? Even our actions cant escape the leash of determinism. After all, hasnt nature predefined the limits for everything. Things in this world may have great potential but not infinite. You can nurture an apple seed in the best soil and with the greatest care, but it will only bear apples and not plums. We can train our bodies to perform extraordinary feats but we cant make our thumbs twist backwards, can we? This idea of Spinoza is of interest to us on two grounds. On the one hand it somewhat appears to align with the Quranic concept of fate or destiny and on the other hand it presupposes the existence of a fundamental reality that exists by necessity, although it merges both the contingent and the non-contingent beings into a single unity. Nonetheless, Its these aforementioned limits and more that constitute fate. In the Quran the Arabic word used for fate is Qadr. Its not coincidental that this word serves as the root for other words such as quantity and measure or proportion. Fate is unquestionably related to the concept of measure with which each object is proportionated in this cosmos. In 7th century Arabia people had already taken interest in understanding the notion of fate. A man once came to Imam Ali to ask about fate and freewill. He asked the man to lift up his one leg and thus the man did. Ali replied such is freewill. He then asked the man to lift up both his legs at the same time and the man simply said that it cant be done. Ali said such is fate. On yet another occasion, a beggar asking for money, interrupted imam Ali while he was getting off of his horse to offer prayer at the mosque in Kufa. Ali told the man to wait until after the prayer was finished with the intention of giving him some 4 dinars which were in his possession. The beggar grew impatient while waiting and stole away the saddle from Alis horse. When Ali came out of the mosque and saw that his saddle was gone, he went in search for it in the nearby market and incidentally found it with one of the shopkeepers. Upon investigation, the shopkeeper informed Ali that he had purchased the saddle from a man for 4 dinars. Imam Ali concluded with a smile that it was already ordained for the man to receive 4 dinars today but had he been patient he would have received it through just means but owing to his impatience he ended up possessing the same amount through unjust means. The point of this story is self-evident. Everything that happens around us is preordained, no matter how complicated the causes might appear. Essentially, the cause and effect are as much a part of the cosmic drama as everything else. At this point some might feel the mental urge to take refuge in common sense in justifying why some things can and cannot happen. But the fact is that its common only because we have accepted the reality to exist in a certain way i.e. the default way, and this we have taken to exist by necessity. But what gives us the right to contemplate over these matters if we are so unsure or rather unfree in our own selves. For the French philosopher Descartes, the fact that we are able to think and question our own existence could be a case in point. He believed as he famously put it, cogito ergo sum, I think therefore I exist. For him our own existence was the highest form of certainty there was. So he chose to build his whole philosophical system bottom up from this very fact. This idea of a thinking being or an intellectual being could possibly be a differentiating factor in nature. How many philosophical problems of his time Descartes succeeded in solving is out of scope of this discussion, albeit how free he was in his act of cogito, is a question Spinoza would have felt delighted to ask. Leaving out a handful of pantheists and ontological monists, for the majority of thinkers from antiquity till date, God has always existed outside the creation. And for Muslim theologians as well as many western philosophers, intellect is one of the irrefutable attributes of the divine. Perhaps the presence of this spark of divine in man in the form of intellect is what raises him to such a vantage point; allowing him to observe reality despite being intimately woven into it. For a trillion years or more the universe would have operated purely on instinct but along comes a being who in this way was an anomaly in the natural order of things. Bestowed with the power of intellect, he was chosen to represent the divine. Perhaps this was what God intended when he breathed his spirit into him, as he mentioned in his final revelation to mankind. Perhaps before man freed himself from God, it was God who had freed man!
Greenply launches HDMR-core laminate flooring in Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 29: Greenply Industries Limited, one of Indias leading interior infrastructure companies, has launched its laminate flooring range featuring High-Density Moisture-Resistant (HDMR) core technology, targeting moisture-related concerns associated with conventional laminate flooring. Positioned in the mid-premium to premium segment, the new range combines wood-inspired designs with moisture resistance, easy installation and minimal maintenance. Greenply describes it as Indias first laminate wood flooring with an HDMR core. The company said moisture was a major concern for wooden flooring in India, with changing weather conditions, excessive wet mopping, improper installation and inadequate subflooring potentially affecting durability and appearance. The new flooring range has been designed for Indian climatic conditions, including areas experiencing high humidity and seasonal rainfall. It combines water-resistant and fire-resistant properties with antimicrobial and antibacterial features, according to the company. The flooring also features an easy-to-clean surface and is designed to simplify routine maintenance. Greenply said an area of 1,000 square feet could be installed in approximately six to seven hours, without adhesive or curing time, subject to site conditions. The collection offers several wood-inspired designs, including different oak varieties, lighter Nordic shades and darker wood finishes. It is available in classic plank, long plank and herringbone formats, with abrasion-resistance grades ranging from AC-3 to AC-5 and thicknesses between 8 mm and 12 mm. The floating-floor installation system also allows the flooring to be dismantled and reinstalled, subject to installation conditions and product guidelines. Commenting on the launch, Sanidhya Mittal, Joint Managing Director of Greenply Industries Limited, said wood-inspired flooring was becoming an important element of contemporary interiors, but design needed to be matched by performance in everyday conditions. He said the companys HDMR-core laminate flooring combined contemporary designs with a greater focus on moisture resistance and the durability associated with the Greenply brand. The company said the range was intended for residential spaces as well as commercial, hospitality and HORECA projects, offering an additional flooring option for homeowners, architects, interior designers and project developers. For residential applications, warranty coverage against stains, fading, wear and tear ranges from 10 years to a lifetime, depending on the product grade. The AC-5 range carries a lifetime residential warranty, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.
Death is a certainty of life, yet no certainty can prepare the heart for losing someone it believed would always be there. We know that this worldly existence is temporary and that everyone we love ultimately belongs to Allah and must return to Him. Yet knowing this does little to lessen the pain of separation. On 7 August 2026, I lost my beloved father, Prof. Nazir Masoodi. For an only daughter raised with extraordinary affection and utmost care, this was not merely the loss of a parent. It felt like the destruction of a cherished heaven. I lost the man who had been my safest place in this world, the voice that reassured me, the heart that loved me without condition, and the comforting certainty that, whatever happened, Daddy was there. To be loved by him was one of the greatest blessings Allah gave me. I write these words because my heart carries more love and grief than my tears can contain, and because a man like my father deserves to be remembered for the goodness he left behind. Daddy possessed qualities that are becoming increasingly rare. He was warm, soft-spoken, dignified and deeply compassionate. He treated people with respect regardless of their position or circumstances. His concern for others was genuine and selfless; he helped not because he expected anything in return, but simply because goodness was inherent in his nature. Perhaps what made him even more remarkable was how distinctly his character stood on its own. He was unlike anyone else in his family, a man of a remarkably different nature, with a gentleness, generosity and depth of compassion that were uniquely his own. There was simply no one quite like him. Generosity was one of his defining qualities. Our home was rarely without guests, and everyone who entered was welcomed with warmth and genuine affection. He had the beautiful ability to make people feel welcome, not merely in his home, but in his heart. His compassion extended especially to children who had been deprived of parental or familial care. Looking back, I realise that Daddys fatherly love was never confined to me alone. His heart was large enough to embrace every child who needed affection, protection and a sense of belonging. He gave them love, guidance, dignity and security, never allowing them to feel different from his own daughter. One of the greatest lessons Daddy taught me came not through words, but through the way he lived: true generosity is not about giving what one has in excess; it is about opening ones heart and making space for another persons happiness and dignity. From him, I learnt that relationships are not defined by blood alone, but by the responsibilities we willingly accept and the love we choose to give. My father had an exceptionally gentle and forgiving heart. He carried goodwill for people and treated others with kindness and grace. He lived with a clean heart and left this world having given far more love than he ever asked to receive. But beyond everything others knew about Prof. Nazir Masoodi, there was the man I had the privilege of calling Daddy. And that is the man I miss beyond words. I miss his voice, his advice, his concern for the smallest things in my life, and above all, the security of simply knowing that he existed in the same world as me. People tell me that time will soften grief. But some losses do not become smaller with time; we simply learn to carry them with love, prayer and remembrance. Daddy, I was proud to be your daughter when you were here, and I will remain proud to be your daughter for as long as I live.
Hunar Nama to showcase Kashmirs rich craft heritage on DD Kashir
Srinagar, Oct 29: The Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir has launched Hunar Nama The Craft Story, a dedicated television programme aimed at showcasing Kashmirs rich handicraft and handloom heritage and bringing the stories of its artisans, crafts and traditions to a wider audience. Being undertaken under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme, the programme will be telecast on DD Kashir every Friday from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM, offering viewers an engaging insight into the craftsmanship, skills and traditions that have shaped Kashmirs distinctive craft legacy. The programme seeks to highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of local artisans and the cultural, historical and economic significance of Kashmirs traditional crafts. It will also provide a platform to showcase the dedication and creativity of artisans who have carried these unique traditions forward from one generation to another. Through Hunar Nama The Craft Story, the Directorate aims to strengthen public outreach, enhance the visibility of traditional crafts and encourage greater appreciation of Kashmirs handicraft and handloom products. The initiative will also contribute towards promoting traditional craft-based enterprises and improving their visibility within the broader MSME ecosystem. The initiative is aligned with the objectives of the RAMP Scheme, which focuses on strengthening MSMEs, enhancing their competitiveness, improving market and institutional outreach, and supporting sustainable growth of enterprises across the country. The Directorate has invited the general public, craft enthusiasts, tourists, researchers and all those interested in Kashmirs rich cultural heritage to watch Hunar Nama The Craft Story on DD Kashir every Friday at 8:30 PM and discover the artistry, heritage and human stories behind Kashmirs world-renowned crafts.
CII Apple Conclave calls for stronger value chain, global market access for J&K apples
Srinagar, Oct 29:The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organised the sixth edition of the CII J&K Apple Conclave 2026 in Srinagar, bringing together policymakers, growers, exporters, researchers and industry leaders to discuss ways to strengthen Jammu and Kashmirs apple sector and expand its global market reach. Held under the theme From Orchard to Global Markets, the conclave focused on technology adoption, precision horticulture, post-harvest management, value addition and improved market linkages. Welcoming participants, Dawar Ashraf Mir, Convener, CII J&K Horticulture Panel and Director, Ziraat Agro Ventures LLP, stressed the need to strengthen the apple value chain through innovation, technology and better market access. Iqram Ali Shafiee, Chairman, CII J&K UT Council, highlighted horticultures contribution to the regions economy and livelihoods, noting that high-density plantations, improved infrastructure and better farming practices offered a foundation for further growth. Syed Junaid Altaf, Chairman, CII Northern Region Committee on Horticulture, called for stronger quality standards, improved supply chains and greater export opportunities. Dr N.K. Krishna Kumar, former Deputy Director General (Horticulture), ICAR, emphasised scientific interventions and modern technologies to improve productivity and competitiveness. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, stressed research, capacity building and reducing production costs to improve the sustainability of apple cultivation. Chief Guest Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production and other departments, highlighted government initiatives aimed at strengthening horticulture through technology, infrastructure and farmer-centric measures. He called for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to support the industrys growth. The conclave featured two technical sessions on Future of Apple Cultivation, Precision Horticulture and Smart Farming and Post-Harvest Innovation and Smart Supply Chains. The discussions highlighted the need for stronger industry-academia collaboration, better post-harvest infrastructure and improved market integration to enhance the global competitiveness of J&K apples. The event was attended by Vikas Anand, Director, Horticulture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad, Director, Agriculture, and other government officials and industry representatives. The conclave concluded with a call for sustained collaboration among the government, industry, research institutions and growers to strengthen the apple value chain and position Jammu and Kashmir as a leading producer of high-quality apples.
Sankara, Ibn Arabiand Heidegger on Being
The mysterious relationship between the permanence of Being and the ceaseless flux of Becoming has stirred the human imagination since the dawn of philosophical reflection. In ancient Greece, this tension found one of its most compelling expressions in the contrasting visions of Heraclitus and Parmenides. For Heraclitus, change was the very pulse of reality, the restless movement through which the world disclosed its dynamic unity; for Parmenides, genuine Being had to be un-generated, imperishable and unchanging, for whatever truly is cannot simply emerge from nothingness or dissolve into non-being. Platos theory of Forms offered a profound response to this philosophical tension by distinguishing the changing world of sensible particulars from the enduring intelligible realities through which they could be understood. Yet the question was far from settled. Beneath the multitude of appearances, was there an abiding reality that remained untouched by change? Was Becoming merely the surface of a deeper Being, or was change itself inseparable from the truth of existence? These questions would travel across civilisations, acquiring new languages, new spiritual dimensions and new philosophical possibilities, while retaining their power to unsettle the human mind. Meanwhile, in the forests and contemplative hermitages of ancient India, the sages of the Upaniads were pursuing their own profound inquiry into the mystery of existence. What sustains this universe? What lies behind the powers of nature? What is the source of thought, perception and consciousness? And is the deepest reality of the cosmos somehow related to the innermost reality of the self? From the Bhadrayaka Upaniad to the Kena Upaniad, we encounter a movement towards an underlying principle that cannot be adequately explained through the plurality of cosmic powers alone. The Kena Upaniad, in particular, places even the gods within this inquiry, revealing the limitations of their individual powers before the mysterious reality of Brahman, the ground that makes their powers possible. A comparable, though historically distinct, transformation unfolded within the religious world of the ancient Near East, where biblical traditions gradually developed an uncompromising affirmation of divine unity amid a landscape populated by deities such as Ishtar and Marduk. The biblical declaration associated with the divine name in Exodusoften rendered, I AM WHO I AMwould inspire enduring reflections on divine existence, presence and transcendence. Centuries later, Islamic tawd would affirm Allah as the one, incomparable Creator and Sustainer of all existence, while Christian mystics such as Meister Eckhart would explore the depths of the Godhead beyond the limitations of ordinary conceptual thought. These traditions cannot be reduced to a single historical trajectory, nor can Brahman, Allah and Eckharts Godhead simply be treated as interchangeable names for one metaphysical principle. Yet they converge upon a compelling question: can the bewildering multiplicity of existence be understood in relation to an ultimate reality that exceeds the limits of ordinary experience and thought? It is against this vast intellectual and spiritual horizon that the distinctive visions of akara, Ibn Arab and Martin Heidegger invite us to reopen the mystery of Being. The philosophical journey of akara unfolds against the backdrop of a profound intellectual contest in ancient India, where the Upaniadic vision of an enduring Self encountered the radical challenge of Buddhist thought. The Upaniads had explored the relationship between Brahman, the ultimate ground of reality, and tman, the deepest reality of the self, a relationship famously expressed in the declarations Tat Tvam Asi (That thou art) and Aham Brahmsmi (I am Brahman). The emergence of Buddhism unsettled this metaphysical vision through its doctrines of dependent origination (prattyasamutpda) and non-self (anatt), challenging the assumption that an eternal, independent self could be discovered beneath the changing constituents of experience. The centuries that followed witnessed intense philosophical exchanges among Buddhist, Brahmanical, and Vedntic thinkers. Bdaryaas Brahma Stra systematised the interpretation of Upaniadic teaching, while Gau apdas Mkya Krik developed a radical philosophy of non-duality and non-origination. This long history of debate and reflection reached one of its most influential expressions in di akara, who gave Advaita Vednta its systematic philosophical form. For akara, the ultimate reality is non-dual Brahman, and the plurality of the phenomenal world cannot be understood as independently self-subsistent. His concept of my does not simply reduce the world to absolute nothingness; rather, it challenges our tendency to mistake phenomenal distinctions for ultimate, independent realities. Beneath the apparent multiplicity of existence lies an ontological unity that cannot be comprehended through ordinary distinctions alone. Although akara did not formulate a modern environmental philosophy, his metaphysics invites a contemporary question: might the overcoming of ego-centred perception and the recognition of a deeper unity inform a more responsible relationship with the natural world? A different yet equally profound exploration of unity and multiplicity emerges in the metaphysics of Muy al-Dn Ibn Arab, the great Andalusian Sufi thinker born in Murcia in 1165. Inheriting the Quranic affirmation of tawd, the intellectual traditions of Islamic theology, and the experiential insights of Sufism, Ibn Arab developed an extraordinarily rich account of the relationship between God and creation. His thought would become central to what later interpreters came to call wadat al-wujd, or the unity of being, although the history and precise meaning of this designation require careful qualification. At the heart of his metaphysics lies al-aqq, the Real, whose existence is not dependent upon anything beyond itself, whereas the existence of created things is contingent and dependent. The cosmos, in this vision, is not simply an independent collection of objects, nor is it a corporeal form assumed by God. It is understood through tajall, the self-disclosure of the divine names and attributes in the manifold forms of existence. The world reveals something of the Real without exhausting or containing the divine essence. Here we encounter a delicate balance between transcendence and manifestation: God is incomparable with creation, yet the universe is not metaphysically detached from its Creator. This offers an intriguing point of comparison with akaras distinction between Nirgua and Sagua Brahman, particularly in the attempt to understand how ultimate reality exceeds finite descriptions while the world of plurality remains intelligible in relation to it. Yet the two thinkers must not be collapsed into a single doctrine. akaras non-duality belongs to the framework of Advaita Vednta, while Ibn Arabs account of the Real and divine self-disclosure is rooted in Islamic revelation and Sufi metaphysics. Their possible convergence lies not in the erasure of these differences, but in the depth of the question they share: how can the multiplicity of existence be understood without compromising the ultimacy of the One?
FCIK welcomes Cabinet expansion, calls for new drive to boost enterprise, jobs
Srinagar, Oct 29:The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has extended warm congratulations to the newly inducted members of the Council of Ministers on their appointment and allocation of portfolios, expressing confidence that the expanded team under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will bring renewed energy, commitment and coordination to fostering entrepreneurship, tackling unemployment and accelerating Jammu and Kashmirs economic development. FCIK welcomed the induction of Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shamim Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Wani, while conveying its best wishes to Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and Ministers Sakeena Masood Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana and Javid Ahmad Dar in fulfilling their responsibilities. Every portfolio offers opportunities to nurture entrepreneurship, generate livelihoods and strengthen the local economy. Enterprise promotion must become a shared responsibility across the Government, with each department using its policies, procurement, infrastructure and services to encourage local production and employment, FCIK stated. The Federation hoped that the enthusiasm accompanying the Cabinet expansion would translate into timely decisions on pending matters affecting investment, industrial revival and business confidence. It particularly sought coordinated action by the Finance, Power, Industries and Commerce, Forest, Agriculture, Health and Education Departments. FCIK urged Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary to prioritise finalisation of the new Industrial Policy and early notification of rules under the Ease of Doing Business Act. It stressed that the policy must combine support for existing enterprises and revival of sick and stressed units with incentives for fresh investment, stronger local procurement and wider market access. The Chief Ministers commitment to industrial renewal has raised considerable expectations. Entrepreneurs awaiting the policy need clarity, certainty and effective implementation to move ahead with investment and expansion, the Federation said. Congratulating Ali Mohammad Sagar on assuming responsibility for Power Development and other departments, FCIK expressed hope that his experience would help secure reliable industrial supply, address tariff concerns, provide relief on accumulated power arrears and accelerate rooftop solarisation. Affordable and dependable electricity, it emphasised, is fundamental to the competitiveness and survival of local manufacturing. Welcoming the assignment of Finance to Javid Ahmad Dar, FCIK sought early financial concurrence to the proposed Industrial Policy, adequate budgetary provision and timely release of incentives and other dues. It also urged him to pursue with J&K Bank the early launch of a meaningful Special One-Time Settlement scheme, with coverage, concessions and eligibility provisions fully aligned with SBIs OTS-20, without dilution or discretionary riders. Resolving legacy debt through a transparent, formula-based and non-discriminatory settlement framework can enable viable enterprises to resume production, release productive assets and restore employment. Industrial revival must be recognised as an investment in economic recovery, FCIK maintained. The Federation also highlighted the scope for linking Agriculture Production and Cooperatives, held by Dar, with local manufacturing through food processing, cold chains, packaging, storage and value addition. It called for the next phase of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme to strengthen these connections and create viable enterprises around agricultural and horticultural production. Welcoming Altaf Ahmad Wanis stewardship of Forest, Ecology and Environment, FCIK sought timely resolution of pending forest-related and environmental matters affecting enterprises, simpler consent procedures and clear, consistent regulatory requirements, with environmental safeguards upheld. Protecting our fragile ecology and promoting responsible entrepreneurship are shared obligations. Transparent procedures and timely decisions can advance both while encouraging cleaner production and sustainable investment, it said. FCIK urged Sakeena Masood Itoo and Shamim Firdous, responsible for Health and Education respectively, to channel their departments substantial procurement requirements towards eligible local manufacturers. It also sought closer collaboration between educational institutions and industry to align skills with market requirements, encourage innovation and help young people establish enterprises of their own. The Federation expressed hope that Mir Saifullah would use Planning and allied departments to support coordinated development and enterprise creation, while Javed Ahmad Ranas responsibilities for Transport, Food and Civil Supplies and Tribal Affairs could help improve logistics, market access and livelihood opportunities for underserved communities. FCIK called for an early joint interaction between the concerned Ministers and industrial stakeholders to establish a time-bound programme for pending decisions, with clear departmental responsibility and periodic review. The renewed energy of the Council of Ministers must translate into functioning factories, revived enterprises and meaningful opportunities for our youth. Every approval expedited, payment released and avoidable hurdle removed can strengthen an enterprise and protect the livelihoods dependent on it, the Federation stated. Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, FCIK expressed confidence that coordinated ministerial leadership under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah would turn reform commitments into tangible gains in investment, employment and public prosperity.
New Delhi, Oct 29:The year 2026 resembles 1991, and it could be deemed an inflection point for the Indian economy, which has been facing not only external challenges but also structural constraints in manufacturing, energy, agriculture and technology, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Thursday. Addressing the ISID-IDRA national conference, Nageswaran further said that, in the global context, India is a source of macroeconomic stability and resilience, which sometimes tend to get forgotten in the noisy world of social media narratives. 2026 resembles 1991, and many of you should not immediately think that when we talk about the word resemblance, it is not the same as identical. Identical means that you have the same balance of payments crisis. No. The point is, it was an inflection point for us in 1991, and 2026 is also, or even 2025, could be deemed as inflection points for us, he said. Nageswaran said that while the 1991 balance of crisis brought four decades of accumulated constraints to a head- a moment of reckoning more than a passing shock- the external stress of 2026 has brought India to a fork in its growth journey and invites a fundamental re-examination of strategy. In 2026, the challenge is not only external. Structural constraints in manufacturing, energy, agriculture and technology add to the pressure, he said. Nageswaran pointed out that the worst shocks now arrive not because of accidents of nature, but by design. Just as last week, we saw China announcing an export licensing regime for tunnel boring machines and for many other products of infrastructure goods, which India will be needing, he said. The CEA said the weaponised dependence ends up eroding the more they are used, that is true. The more countries weaponise their supplies, they become less effective over time. But there is a period when they are binding, because other countries cannot ramp up production just like that, he said. Nageswaran observed that the next 20-30 years will be different from the 40 years pre-pandemic and added that most of the shocks which we faced before the pandemic were largely demand deficiency shocks. So central bankers and fiscal policy could just stimulate and try to get out of trouble, whether it is the 1987 stock market crash, 1990-91 savings and loan crisis, the East Asian crisis of 199798, 2001 tech bubble or the 2008 global financial crisis. Every single crisis was met with a standard playbook of low interest rates, together with or without quantitative easing, and some fiscal stimulus as well, he said. The CEA said it is easy to stimulate when you consider the problems as only a matter of demand deficiency, but when supply falls short, it is about real stuff. And that is not easily engineered or designed by monetary or fiscal policy. And higher interest rates, you can raise rates sky-high and cool an overheated economy, he said. Nageswaran said in the next 30 years, monetary policy will be much more difficult to execute in a world of supply shortages causing real economic disruptions, both to output and to inflation. Fiscal policy, broad support, stimulating of the economy where animal spirits are weak; it is easy to stimulate them with fiscal stimulus, he said.
Woman killed, 6 injured in Reasi, Ramban accidents
Ramban, Oct 29:A woman was killed and six persons were injured in two separate road accidents in Ramban and Reasi districts of Jammu division on Thursday, officials said. In the first accident, three persons sustained minor injuries after a truck loaded with heavy paper rolls collided with a road divider and two other vehicles in the Dalwass area of Chanderkote along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) in Ramban district. Official sources said a canter, bearing registration number UP58AT-0870, collided with a Ford Figo (JK02DK-4899) and another vehicle, bearing registration number JK14C-4705, leaving three persons injured. The injured were identified as Kishori Lal, son of Amar Chand; Ranbir Singh, son of Balwan Singh and Maninder Singh, son of Ashok Kumar, all residents of Sawni village in Chanderkote. They were shifted to District Hospital Ramban for treatment. SHO Chanderkote Inspector Vicky Thapa confirmed that three persons had sustained minor injuries in the accident. In a separate incident, a 45-year-old woman was killed and three others, including a minor girl, were injured after a tempo traveller skidded off the road and plunged into a gorge near Last Galla in the Dansal area of Arnas tehsil in Reasi district during the intervening night of October 28 and 29. Officials said the injured were shifted to a hospital, where the woman was declared dead. The other three injured were undergoing treatment. The deceased was identified as Gulshan, a resident of Dhanour. The injured were identified as Subash, also a resident of Dhanour; Altaf, the driver of the vehicle and a resident of Dharore and a minor girl whose identity has not yet been ascertained. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, and further investigation is underway.
Remain mission ready to sustain operational dominance: Lt Gen Pratik Sharma
Rajouri, Oct 29: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma has asked army troops to remain proactive,vigilant and mission ready to sustained operational dominance in the prevalent security situation. The Northern Army Commander was interacting with troops deployed both on Line of Control (LoC) as well as hinterland sectors of twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Army said that Lt Gen Pratik Sharma visited frontline units along the Line of Control in Poonch and hinterland formations in Rajouri on Thursday. The visit was aimed to review operational preparedness and prevailing security dynamics, army further said. The Army Commander was briefed on operational challenges, joint intelligence frameworks and synergy with security agencies, a statement read. Army informed that while interacting with the troops, Army Commander exhorted all ranks to remain proactive, vigilant and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance.
J&K deploying upgraded UEM, EDR to safeguard govt endpoints against cyber threats
Jammu, Oct 29:Jammu and Kashmir government is deploying upgraded versions of Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions across all its departments and organisations to bolster its security framework against emerging cyber threats. In view of the increasing cyber security threats to government IT infrastructure, particularly endpoints connected through NICNET and JKSWAN, the deployment of UEM and EDR solutions assumes critical importance. Deployment of upgraded versions of these critical solutions has become necessary as the license support for the existing versions of UEM and EDR solutions is due to expire. NIC cyber security personnel, designated as cyber warriors have been entrusted with the task of installation of these solutions on all endpoints connected to NICNET and JKSWAN. These solutions provide centralised management of government endpoints, facilitate security compliance and vulnerability monitoring, enable early detection of cyber threats and support prompt response to security incidents, thereby strengthening the overall cyber security framework of the government. For the smooth implementation of new versions of UEM and EDR solutions, General Administration Department (GAD) Commissioner Secretary M Raju has issued comprehensive instructions. In this connection, he has sought the attention of all administrative secretaries and Head of Departments, PSUs, Corporations to Circular number 12-JK(GAD) of 2025 dated May 21, 2025, whereby instructions were issued for ensuring adherence to prescribed cyber security practices, discontinuation of unauthorised digital assets and compliance with established IT governance protocols across government departments and organisations. As the license support for the existing versions of UEM and EDR solutions is due to expire, NIC Headquarters has procured the upgraded versions of these solutions to ensure continuity of security services and protection against emerging cyber threats, M Raju has maintained. Pointing out that the upgraded solutions are now ready for implementation, GAD Commissioner Secretary has stated that a dedicated team of NIC cyber security personnel, designated as cyber warriors will visit the concerned government departments or organisations for installation and deployment of the upgraded solutions on all endpoints connected to NICNET and JKSWAN. The exercise will be undertaken in a phased manner. Accordingly, M Raju has asked all Administrative Secretaries and Head of Departments, PSUs and Corporations to notify all officers and officials under their administrative control and to extend full cooperation to NIC team for the installation of new version of UEM and EDR in the interest of secure and accountable e-governance.
Medical camp held at Shalimar, Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 29:In a significant initiative aimed at promoting accessible healthcare and community welfare, the Department of AYUSH, Srinagar, organised a Mega Medical Camp today at Syed Meerak Shah Memorial Public School, Shalimar, Srinagar, in collaboration with NGO Ali Asgar Blood Bank Care Foundation J&K, with the active support and cooperation of the school management. The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Mohammad Sultan Parray, District AYUSH Officer, Srinagar, who highlighted the importance of collaborative healthcare initiatives in extending medical services to the public, particularly students, economically weaker sections and other deserving beneficiaries. During the camp, hundreds of patients received medical consultations, free general health check-ups and medicines. Students and staff members of the institution, along with a substantial number of people from the surrounding community, availed themselves of the healthcare facilities. Preliminary medical investigations were also conducted on the spot to facilitate the initial assessment of beneficiaries' health conditions. The initiative reflected the Department of AYUSH's commitment to strengthening community-based healthcare, promoting preventive health awareness and ensuring that essential medical services reach people at their doorstep. The collaboration with Ali Asgar Blood Bank Care Foundation J&K further demonstrated the importance of partnerships between government healthcare institutions and voluntary organisations in expanding healthcare outreach. The camp was conducted under the leadership of Team Head Dr. Mohammad Ayoub Sofi, whose coordination and guidance, along with the dedicated efforts of the entire team, contributed to the successful organisation of the programme. The AYUSH medical team included Dr. Ruhi Tabassum, Dr. Nustat Kawoosa, Dr. Qurat ul Ain, Imtiyaz Zargar, Mushtaq Ahmad, Qasim Sofi and Mahnaz Qayoom. Their professional commitment, teamwork and patient-centred approach were instrumental in providing healthcare services to the beneficiaries. The volunteers of Ali Asgar Blood Bank Care Foundation J&K extended valuable support in organising and coordinating the camp. The cooperation of the management and staff of Syed Meerak Shah Memorial Public School, headed by Dr. Mohammad Ayoub Sofi, was also commendable in facilitating the programme and ensuring the participation of students, staff members and the local community. Appreciating the collective efforts of all those involved, Dr. Mohammad Sultan Parray, District AYUSH Officer, Srinagar, lauded the dedication and collaborative spirit of the medical team, volunteers and school management. He emphasised that such outreach initiatives are essential for taking healthcare beyond institutional settings and bringing essential medical services closer to communities. The camp underscored how effective coordination between government healthcare institutions, voluntary organisations and educational institutions can create a meaningful impact on public health. Such initiatives not only improve access to essential healthcare but also strengthen public awareness, encourage preventive health practices and foster a spirit of compassion and social responsibility. The Department of AYUSH, Srinagar, reaffirmed its commitment to expanding healthcare outreach, strengthening preventive healthcare initiatives and bringing AYUSH services closer to the people through community participation and institutional collaboration. The organisers expressed their sincere gratitude to the medical professionals, supporting staff, volunteers, school management and all stakeholders whose dedication and cooperation contributed to the successful conduct of this humanitarian initiative.
Kupwara Chemists and Distributors Association organises first-ever Pharma Conference
Kupwara, Oct 29:The Kupwara Chemists and Distributors Association on Thursday organised the first-ever pharma conference at Town Hall Kupwara, bringing together pharmaceutical professionals and officials to discuss drug regulation, public health and the pharmaceutical trade. Tehsildar Kupwara Niyaz Ahmad attended the conference as the guest of honour and participated in discussions on measures to prevent the misuse of medicines and strengthen the monitoring of pharmaceutical outlets. DySP Headquarters Mubashir Ahmad, speaking on the occasion, urged chemists to play an active role in curbing drug abuse and ensuring strict monitoring of medicine sales. He emphasised the importance of responsible dispensing practices and vigilance to prevent the misuse of medicines. Assistant Drugs Controllers Dr Zaffar Ahmad Bhat and Dr Shabir Ahmad Bhat; Hina Hameed, Price Monitoring Resource Unit Project Coordinator, Jammu and Kashmir (PMRU); Reema Gazala, Ishrat Qadri, Field Investigator, PMRU Kashmir Division; and Drugs Control Officers (DCOs) Feroz Ahamad Bhat, Kupwara/Handwara, and Shabir Ahmad Pandit (Manufacturing), Kashmir Division, were also among the key participants. On the occasion, DCO Shabir Ahmad Pandit (Manufacturing), Kashmir Division, presented official data and claimed that no duplicate medicines had been detected in Kashmir based on market samples collected over the past five years. The conference focused on the Nasha Mukth Abhiyan, prescription and scheduled drugs (NRx), and price monitoring through the Price Monitoring and Resource Unit (PMRU). An interactive question-and-answer session was also held to address issues concerning pharmaceutical regulations and the responsibilities of chemists and distributors. The programme aimed to promote the responsible sale and distribution of medicines, strengthen compliance with drug regulations and encourage collective efforts to curb substance abuse. The association emphasised the importance of cooperation among chemists, distributors and drug regulatory authorities in ensuring the availability of safe and affordable medicines while protecting public health.
Artificial Intelligence has become an integral part of the Technology revolution amidst widespread usage touching our daily lives. With an amalgamation of Machine Learning, Deep learning algorithms, natural language processing & Neural networks, it has been instrumental in automating routine tasks, enhancing productivity, analytics and research. AI mimics human decision-making through rule-based algorithms, training with large amounts of data, which became readily available post the advent of Internet. In the past couple of years, AI has made exponential progress and impact in domains like Finance, Healthcare, autonomous systems and predictive analytics. Artificial Intelligence is supported by data centres which are specialised facilities meant for heavy computing, high speed networking and innovative cooling, making them the backbone of large-scale AI training and inference or regular usage. The number of such data centres is seeing a rapid expansion driven by massive investments and government incentives. The four essential components to keep an AI data centre running are compute, storage, power and cooling. These four components consume minerals, energy, water and have a direct impact on our Environment, depleting natural resources and increasing carbon emissions. Compute & Storage Artificial Intelligence requires massive computational power, both for training the models and inference or daily use, which is provided by high computing servers. The boom in building large AI data centres or AI factories has created a spiraling requirement for processors, memory and supporting hardware. Supply of microchips has become a bottleneck in technology expansion and is not able to meet the surging demand since the expansion of production capacity is highly time consuming due to its capital intensive nature. Chip manufacturing is a specialized process carried out under controlled conditions and consumes significant amounts of electricity and water. The manufacturing process uses fluorinated gases, perflurocarbons and etchants with a potential for high emissions and carbon footprint. Moreover, mining for silicon, copper and specialised metals has a major environmental impact. Power The rapid adoption and usage of AI models is resulting in serious concerns for power availability and energy demands. AI chips draw far more power than ordinary servers. The power requirement of a GPU server is 3-10KW, as compared to 300-600W for a CPU server. While a standard server rack consumes 10-15KW power, an AI rack requires 40-250KW. Besides, AI workload demands result in unpredictable cycles, and the power requirements are concentrated to specific locations housing data centres. This non-uniformity in demand creates a pressure on local grids and transmission networks. The Global power consumption for AI data centres is projected to be about 945TWh by 2030, which would lead to 1.6GtCO2 emissions. Water The high power usage of AI chips results in excessive heat generation. GPUs generate a lot of heat and conventional air cooling is not sufficient to control these extreme thermal loads. This requires cooling systems to continuously counter the heat using multiple techniques, predominantly employing water. Chilled water absorbs heat from the servers; some of it evaporates in cooling towers, which requires continuous fresh water to replace what is lost. Further, the power plants supplying electricity use water for their own cooling. Additionally, water is used in manufacturing microchips for computation. Despite resorting to innovative cooling techniques like liquid cooling (immersion and direct-to-chip cooling), AIs water usage is expected to equal the basic water needs of 1.3 Billion people by 2030, Thus, Data centres require specialised cooling and power systems. The infrastructure requirements are massive and pose a major risk by way of high electricity demand, water consumption, and land use. The issue is further convoluted by lack of transparency regarding usage of energy and water. There is also a regional inequality due to disproportionate burden on the environmental resources, depending on the location of data centres vis-a-vis the actual users of AI. The gravity of the situation can be ascertained from SpaceX IPO filing which highlighted water access as a key risk in operating and expanding large-scale AI infrastructure, warning that water scarcity, or regulatory limits for water usage could limit data center cooling and delay expansion. Mitigations AI Power requirements can be optimised by deploying efficient models with reduced inference, improved server utilization and locating data centres according to power & water availability at potential sites. A crucial mitigation would be the adoption of renewable energy to counter high carbon emissions. The usage of water for Data Centre Cooling is becoming a major concern. Several moderation measures have been initiated by using recycled or non-potable water for cooling, besides innovative options for Direct-to-chip or immersion cooling, which reduces temperatures with much lesser evaporation. Another option under consideration is to locate Data centres at sites with cooler climates. Roadmap The future for AI would not only include faster chips and larger models, but considerations for energy and cooling requirements as well. AI data centres ought to be strategically located as per availability of power and water. The entire lifecycle of AI - from chip production, server rack placements, model development, training to deployment and inference creates an environmental footprint, with major concerns around semiconductor manufacturing, electricity, water, minerals and adding significantly to emissions, pollution hazards leading to intensified pressure on energy, water and infrastructure. Unchecked growth and usage of Artificial Intelligence poses a major risk to the environment. We have to strike a balance between innovation and sustainability. Every AI prompt has an environmental footprint. Every compilation, illustration and elaboration by an AI tool is a result of engaging racks of processors depleting minerals, generating loads of heat and consuming plenty of water for cooling the same. Next time you run a simple AI prompt, remember the reply costs you a bottle of water and a chunk of carbon emission. The author is a technocrat with expertise in Data Analytics, Cyber Law and Digital Forensics. He is currently acting as advisor/ mentor to several startups and an ardent supporter of causes pertaining to Environment and Sustainability.
DM Anantnag declares Bar Association elections null and void
Anantnag, Oct 29:District Magistrate (DM) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, has declared the elections of the District Bar Association Anantnag, reportedly held on October 27, 2026, null and void ab initio and non est in the eyes of law, citing a violation of prohibitory orders issued by the District Magistrate. As per the orders issued by the District Magistrate, the election process of the District Bar Association Anantnag had been prohibited vide Order No. 01-DCA of 2025, dated January 2, 2025, pending fulfilment of mandatory requirements and submission of requisite documents by the organisation. The conditions stipulated in the order included submission of the registration certificate, constitution and memorandum, bye-laws governing the functioning of the organisation, a list of current executive members and members enrolled during the preceding ten years, along with their complete details, and a detailed statement of accounts. The order also required verification of the submitted documents and obtaining the necessary permission from the office of the District Magistrate before proceeding with the election process. However, owing to the non-fulfilment of the prescribed requirements, the election process was again prohibited vide Order No. 62-DCA of 2026, dated September 28, 2026. The said order remains in force. The District Magistrate observed that the elections of the District Bar Association Anantnag, reportedly held on October 27, 2026, as circulated on certain social media platforms, were conducted in violation of the subsisting prohibitory order, without fulfilment of the mandatory prerequisites and without prior intimation to or permission from the office of the District Magistrate. The conduct of the elections, in disregard of the subsisting order and without compliance with the prescribed requirements, has been viewed as a violation of the applicable legal and regulatory provisions, including those referred to under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. Accordingly, the District Magistrate Anantnag has declared the elections of the District Bar Association Anantnag, reportedly held on October 27, 2026, null and void ab initio and non est in the eyes of law. The action underscores the importance of compliance with lawful administrative orders and the fulfilment of prescribed statutory and procedural requirements by organisations before undertaking such activities.
Unmarked road dividers raise safety concerns across north Kashmir
Baramulla, Oct 29:The absence of reflective markers on concrete road dividers installed at several locations in north Kashmir has emerged as a road safety concern, with residents warning that poorly visible barriers, particularly during night hours, could lead to serious accidents. The authorities have installed concrete dividers at various stretches to streamline traffic movement and ease congestion in busy areas. However, the absence of reflectors on these structures has raised concerns among commuters, who say the dividers become difficult to spot after dark, increasing the risk of vehicles crashing into them. Residents said several road mishaps had occurred in Baramulla town in the past, allegedly due to the poor visibility of these dividers. Such accidents have resulted in injuries to vehicle occupants and damage to vehicles, with some incidents reportedly causing serious injuries. In one such incident about a year ago, a car travelling from Srinagar towards Baramulla rammed into a concrete divider near Nanak Bhawan. The collision left the occupants with severe head injuries and caused extensive damage to the vehicle. Locals said the absence of reflective markers makes the dividers particularly hazardous at night, when drivers have limited visibility of the road ahead. The problem becomes more acute during power outages, when inadequate street lighting leaves the concrete structures barely visible to approaching motorists. They said drivers unfamiliar with the area are especially vulnerable, as they may fail to notice the dividers in time to manoeuvre their vehicles safely. Installing reflectors would cost only a few thousand rupees, but it could help save lives. The authorities must pay attention to this issue before another accident occurs, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local resident. Residents said that while installing concrete dividers may help regulate traffic and prevent vehicles from entering the wrong lane, ensuring their visibility is equally important for road safety. They urged the concerned departments to conduct an assessment of dividers installed across Baramulla and other parts of north Kashmir and equip them with reflective markers or other suitable visibility aids. They also called for adequate street lighting at vulnerable stretches, particularly along busy roads and at locations where dividers are difficult to distinguish from the road surface. Residents said relatively inexpensive safety measures could help reduce the risk of collisions and prevent avoidable injuries and loss of life. They urged the authorities to address the issue on priority, particularly as traffic movement increases on busy roads.
Attribute the inefficiencies in our government hospitals to the crowd. Fair enough. Try to keep the mess in order with a raised voice. Understandable. Help people stay in a queue. Beautiful. I agree, it must be difficult to listen to a patient, with tens of them already pushing and pulling at him. Easier said than done. I am neither a doctor nor an administrator. But some observations stick out. Even the blind can see them, the deaf can hear them, and the dumb can sniff them out. We suffer from hospital-related issues that go beyond controlling the swarm of people or bringing some semblance of order to it. Our government hospitals are so unorganised that youre sent from one department to another, only to find yourself speaking to an entirely different person. The chain of officials caught in the middle of this pillar-to-post drudgery solves little beyond donning their thinking caps and referring you someplace else. If theyre not at fault, the administrators are not at fault, and the people arent at fault, who will solve what, when, and by what means? You see, its not our cup of tea to have an accurate knowledge of things. What departments are assigned what work? Which official is supposed to sign a piece of paperwork? Its beyond our ken to confirm beforehand whether an official can handle a certain task before sending a patient to him. And so, the patient keeps moving, hoping that the next person will have an answer. The result? Here. There. And nowhere. Bear with my bakwaas. Bakwaas observed. Seen. Gone through. Experienced. Every time I visit government hospitals. Dont lay a scientific yardstick over this piece. Dont look for a judiciary-esque analysis. Dont look for evidence. Understand a common man speaking from firsthand knowledge, with no cameras, of course, to capture the kernel of these loopholes. One feels disgusted and exhausted after waiting two hours for a prescription, followed by another hour outside the doctors chamber. Especially at SMHS. And thats not always where the ordeal ends. There may be another counter to visit, another signature to obtain, another person to consult. Another, another and just another, another. In the age of robotics and quantum technology, we suffer from issues that should have long been resolved. Done and dusted. We form governments; governments overlook the everyday inconveniences that carry the weight of public suffering, and we continue to bear the brunt. Big infrastructure projects and inauguration festivals cant hide the puddles patients tiptoe over on a daily basis. You have to be a common man to observe common happenings unfolding every now and then. If I were to flesh out the details of how a common mans dignity is affected, you would probably get bored: the uncertainty, the delay, and the waiting. A little organisation and clarity could save people hours of unnecessary trouble. Just understand the triad: organisation, responsibility, and humility. Work on these, and the rest will follow. Otherwise, limit the number of patients treated each day to what the hospital can reasonably handle. Thanks!
Aga Ruhullah firm on Nov 3 exit from NC, accuses party leadership of 'collective betrayal'
Budgam, Oct 29: Striking a defiant note ahead of his scheduled resignation, estranged National Conference (NC) Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has launched a scathing attack on the party leadership, accusing it of a collective betrayal of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and abandoning the fight for the restoration of Article 370. Confirming he will resign from both the party and his Srinagar Lok Sabha seat on November 3, Mehdi said he remains firm in his decision and accused top party leaders, including NC president Farooq Abdullah, of prioritising comfortable politics over principles and electoral commitments. Mehdi said nothing has changed since he announced his intention to quit the party and Parliament, emphasising that the chosen date holds deep personal and moral significance. November 3 is the death anniversary of my father, the late Aga Syed Mehdi, who was assassinated on this day. His legacy shapes my politics, efforts, and moral compass. Symbolically, that day is synonymous with directions in my life, Mehdi said, adding that the short delay also allowed him time to disburse his MPLADS funds for public development works. Refusing to accept critics' claims that vacating the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat amounts to abandoning his constituents, Mehdi said he felt collectively betrayed by the NCs shift in political stance post the 2024 elections. I felt collectively betrayed, not isolated, Mehdi said, adding, we committed one thing to the people, and after winning elections, we turned away from those commitments. The consistency and conviction with which I fought were maligned by my own party, casting aspersions on my struggle. He claimed that the friction reached a tipping point when the top party leadership explicitly asked him to step aside. When the head of the party asks you to resign and ease them of any accountability, thats when you have to take a call. He precisely said if I think Article 370 can be restored, I should go and fight for that which means they don't want to continue with the struggle or be held accountable to their promises, Mehdi alleged. Commenting on the Jammu and Kashmir government's two-year report card under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the parliamentarian dismissed claims of political and governance achievements. They passed one resolution in 2024 asking for the restoration of special status and two years later passed another resolution diluting the earlier one. They dilute their own stand within two years, Mehdi remarked. Their chief, on record, said multiple times that his fight is only for the restoration of statehood, forgetting the constitutional protections 370 provided us. Mehdi added that his primary lesson from his two years as an MP with the NC was ot to trust individuals in that party at face value. When asked about his critics' warning of a potential political blunder, Mehdi asserted he is unconcerned with electoral calculations or materialistic benefits. Looking ahead, the outgoing MP expressed a desire to return to the grassroots and build a broader, principled political force. I would want to go back to the people and search for like-minded individuals who believe in principles and can fight this fight with conviction, Mehdi said. On the possibility of aligning with other regional parties, he noted that his sole priority remains the restoration of constitutional rights and dignity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and he would explore any route that enables that objective.
CMs home constituency Ganderbal grapples with 10-hour power cuts despite 142 MW hydropower capacity
Ganderbal, Oct 29:Ganderbal, the home constituency of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is grappling with prolonged and unscheduled power cuts, with residents reporting outages lasting eight to 10 hours daily despite the district hosting three hydropower projects with a combined installed capacity of 142 megawatts (MW). With winter approaching, residents across Ganderbal, Lar, Wayil, Kangan, Gund and other areas have expressed concern over the deteriorating power supply, alleging that unscheduled curtailments have added to their hardships. The district hosts the 15-MW Old Ganderbal Hydel Power Project, the 22-MW Upper Sindh Hydel Power Project-I at Sumbal and the 105-MW Upper Sindh Hydel Power Project-II at Kangan. However, the three projects are currently generating only 26 MW collectively. Official sources told Greater Kashmir that the decline in generation was primarily due to reduced water discharge. The Old Ganderbal project is generating no power, while USHP-I at Sumbal is producing 6 MW against its installed capacity of 22 MW, with one unit undergoing an overhaul. USHP-II at Kangan is generating 20 MW against its installed capacity of 105 MW. Residents said the situation had compounded their difficulties, questioning the authorities' failure to ensure a reliable electricity supply. It is shocking that instead of ensuring regular power supply, the Power Development Department is resorting to extended and unscheduled power cuts, said Showket Ahmed, a resident of Duderhama. Senior PDP leader and social activist Qaisar Sultan also questioned the authorities' accountability, saying prolonged outages continued even after scheduled shutdowns. Residents said repeated power cuts during morning and evening hours were affecting students' studies and disrupting daily life. They alleged that electricity was being curtailed beyond the announced schedule. Mohammad Altaf, a shopkeeper from Kangan, said residents were struggling despite living close to a hydropower project. We live right in the shadow of the Kangan powerhouse, yet our lamps flicker out every evening. It is a cruel irony to generate power for the grid while studying under candle flame, he said. Residents also reported adverse effects on small businesses, industrial units and healthcare facilities. Meanwhile, officials of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) attributed the curtailments to the widening gap between electricity demand and available supply across the Valley. An official said load-shedding and grid curtailments were being implemented to prevent overloading at key receiving stations during peak demand hours. Residents have urged the authorities to adhere to the announced curtailment schedule and ensure a reliable power supply as winter demand increases.
Allah: repository of universal trust
Allah being the repository trust rests on being in possession of all things in heavens and earth, and in being full of wisdomacquainted with all things, as is laid down in following Holy Verses: Praise be to the Allah, to whom belongs all things in heavens and on earth: to Him be Praise in the Hereafter: and He is full of Wisdom, acquainted with all things. (Saba 34:1) The extent of Allah (SwT)s knowledge is infinite, as He Knows all that goes on in the earth and all that comes out of it, and He also has the ultimate knowledge of all that comes down from the sky and all that ascends up to it, as is laid down in the Holy Verse following the one noted above: He knows all that goes into the earth: and all that comes thereof: and all that comes down from the sky and all that ascends thereto, and He is the Most Merciful and Oft Forgiving (Saba 34:2) A glaring example of what goes into the earth is water, as it goes in, out of it sprouts forth all kinds of vegetable life of all varieties of which the seeds are sown, it replenishes numerous rills and streams. We may also speak of the vapours that arise from the earth and ascend to the sky, only to descend as rain &/or snowsymbols of Allahs Mercy, and of His Blessings. On a spiritual plane, we may account for the prayers of the devout, as also the call of those in agony for help and light, the calls that ascend to heavens above and get answered by descend of mercy and guidance, as also by help in innumerable forces, light as well to illuminate the path to righteousness. And how often in our acts of omission and commission, He remains Oft Forgiving.
Srinagar, Oct 29:Principal Census Officer (Urban), Srinagar (Commissioner SMC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, today inaugurated a two-day training programme for Phase II of Census 2027 at the Central Office, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Karan Nagar, emphasising the need for accurate, systematic and comprehensive Population Enumeration across Srinagars urban jurisdiction. During the inaugural session, Dr. Basharat stressed that all census functionaries must discharge their assigned responsibilities with utmost diligence, precision and accountability to ensure the collection of reliable and error-free population data. He underscored the importance of complete coverage of assigned enumeration areas, accurate recording of individual-level particulars and strict adherence to the prescribed census methodology and guidelines. The Principal Census Officer emphasised the need for effective coordination among Charge Officers, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks, Technical Assistants and other functionaries to ensure uniform implementation of prescribed procedures. He highlighted the importance of systematic supervision, regular monitoring of progress, timely reporting and prompt resolution of operational challenges during the enumeration process. Dr. Basharat further stressed that particular attention must be given to preventing omissions, duplication and discrepancies in data collection. He underscored the importance of maintaining data quality, following prescribed technical procedures and ensuring the confidentiality and secure handling of census information. The training programme was attended by the City Census Officer (Urban), Charge Officers, Nodal Officers of SMC, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks and Technical Assistants. Experts from the Census Department, including Deputy Director, Assistant Director and District Coordinator, imparted detailed training on census methodology, operational procedures, technical requirements and the responsibilities of various census functionaries. The session will cover key aspects of Population Enumeration, including the collection, recording and verification of individual-level information, adherence to prescribed questionnaires, comprehensive coverage of assigned areas and measures to ensure accuracy and consistency in the data collected. Participants were also briefed on field-level procedures, supervisory mechanisms, digital tools and established reporting protocols. Phase II of Census 2027, comprising Population Enumeration, is a crucial component of the nationwide census exercise, involving the collection of individual-level demographic, socio-economic, educational and other prescribed particulars. The accuracy and completeness of this information are essential for developing a reliable population database. Census data provide a vital foundation for evidence-based policymaking, public administration and development planning. For urban local bodies, reliable population statistics are essential for assessing demographic trends, identifying emerging civic requirements and planning infrastructure and essential public services in accordance with the needs of the population. The two-day training programme marks an important step towards strengthening institutional preparedness and building the capacity of census functionaries for the accurate, coordinated and effective implementation of Phase II of Census 2027 across Srinagars urban jurisdiction.
Moul Mouj Foundation to Pilot Project SANMAAN in J&K
Srinagar, Oct 29:Moul Mouj Foundation (MMF), in collaboration with the Geriatric Orthopaedic Society of India (GOSI), will introduce Project SANMAAN, a pan-India initiative promoting senior citizens rights and dignity, as a pilot project in Jammu and Kashmir. Built on three pillarsEmpower, Protect and Sensitisethe initiative aims to raise awareness about the rights of older persons and protect them from neglect, abuse and exploitation. MMF will take the initiative forward through its Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA), integrating it with its Intergenerational Communication Project and collaborating with universities, institutions and civil society organisations.
Caring for the elderly is a blessing, not just an obligation
Srinagar, Oct 29:Emphasising the need to respect, care for and stand by older persons, Vice Chancellor of the Cluster University, Srinagar, Prof. Mohammad Mobin, today called for greater sensitivity towards the elderly, observing that caring for them is a shared responsibility of families and society. Addressing a programme organised at Government College for Women (GCW), MA Road, Srinagar, as the Chief Guest, Prof. Mobin said older persons must not be left behind as society progresses. He reminded the audience that parents spend their most productive years raising their children, making sacrifices and building their futures. The time eventually comes when the younger generation must give back with the same love, patience and commitment, ensuring that their parents age with dignity, security and a sense of belonging. Under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the programme was organised by RRTCAnugraha, Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Government College for Women, MA Road, Srinagar, with Moul Mouj Foundation supporting the broader awareness initiative. Welcoming the participants, Principal GCW, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq Khan said that issues concerning older persons were close to the institutions heart. She observed that caring for elderly should be our priority, calling for greater compassion and understanding towards their needs. A special highlight of the programme was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, which brought together legal, law-enforcement, social and administrative perspectives on ageing. Kifayat Hussain Rizvi (IAS Retd.), former Commissioner/Secretary, J&K Government, brought the perspective of an experienced public servant, highlighting the need to ensure that retirement does not mean retirement from life. The discussion underscored the importance of respecting the wisdom, experience and continuing contributions of older persons. Tahir Ashraf (JKPS), Senior Superintendent of Police, SIA, addressed the growing threat of cybercrime targeting older persons, particularly digital arrest scams and financial fraud. The discussion highlighted the importance of digital awareness and the need for younger family members to help older persons navigate technology safely without compromising their independence. Tabassum Qadir Parray, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, spoke on the legal rights and protection available to senior citizens, including remedies for neglect, abandonment and abuse under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. In her message, Aabha Chaudhary of RRTCAnugraha reaffirmed the organisations commitment to working for the welfare of older persons and spreading awareness about their social and legal rights. The programme featured an emotional skit by GCW MA Road students, cultural performances, a Wakathon and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam plantation activity, promoting intergenerational bonding, respect and care for the elderly. Winners of the essay-writing competition on issues concerning senior citizens were announced, with Nausheen Qureshi securing first position, Ayesha Faisal second and Shifa Qureshi third. Certificates and cash prizes were distributed among the winners. The programme also recognised the contributions of the colleges alumni, former principals and faculty members, felicitating them for their association with the institution. Senior citizens participating from various organisations, including the Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association (CGPWA), Kashmir and Ahata Waqar, were also felicitated. Among those present were Registrar, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Wilayat Hussain Rizvi; Controller of Examinations, Prof. Khurshid Ahmad Mir; Dean, Sciences, Prof. Nighat Nasreen; Dean, Social Sciences, Dr. Javaid Ahmad Bhat; Prof. Masooda Yaseen; Mandip Kaur; GM Dilshad, besides students, senior citizens and representatives of various organisations. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Suhail, who expressed gratitude to the guests, participating organisations, faculty members, students and senior citizens for contributing to the success of the event.
NIT Srinagar hosts vigilance lecture
Srinagar, Oct 29: As part of Vigilance Awareness Week celebrations, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar organised a special awareness lecture to sensitise faculty members, officers, staff, and students about the importance of integrity, transparency, accountability and the prevention of corruption in public institutions. A statement of NIT issued here said that Senior Public Prosecuting Officer, Anti-Corruption Bureau Ashok Kumar Bagoria was the chief guest and highlighted the importance of vigilance in ensuring accountable governance. The programme was attended by Director NIT Srinagar, Prof AnuragMisra; CVO NIT Srinagar Prof Manzoor Ahmad Ahanger; Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof M A Shah, Heads of Departments (HoDs), administrative officers; and ministerial staff of NIT Srinagar. In his key speech, Bagoria encouraged participants to remain aware of the appropriate mechanisms for reporting suspected corruption and misconduct. He also discussed the significance of public awareness in identifying corrupt practices, understanding legal procedures and approaching competent authorities whenever credible instances of wrongdoing come to light. Bagoriaemphasised the importance of responsible reporting, factual information and adherence to established legal channels while raising complaints. The lecture also highlighted the role of the Anti-Corruption Bureau in addressing corruption-related matters within its jurisdiction and the importance of cooperation between citizens and competent authorities in strengthening accountability. Participants were encouraged to understand that vigilance is a collective responsibility requiring ethical conduct, awareness of legal rights and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. Addressing the gathering, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof AnuragMisra, emphasised that integrity, transparency and accountability are fundamental to building a trustworthy institutional environment. He highlighted the importance of sensitising students and employees about ethical responsibilities and encouraged the institute community to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. Earlier, Chief Vigilance Officer, NIT Srinagar, Prof Manzoor Ahmad Ahnagar, in his welcome address underscored the importance of preventive vigilance and collective responsibility in discouraging corrupt practices. He stressed that awareness, adherence to established procedures and timely reporting of suspected irregularities are essential for strengthening institutional governance and public confidence. The programme highlighted the importance of vigilance in educational institutions, where transparent administrative procedures, responsible use of public resources, and adherence to established rules are essential to maintaining institutional credibility and public trust. The Dean, Alumni and International Affairs, Prof M A Shah, delivered the vote of thanks and thanked the chief guest and participants for their contribution to the awareness initiative.
France confers Legion of Honour on Sunil Bharti Mittal
Srinagar, Oct 29: France has conferred its highest civilian honour, the Legion of Honour, on Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening Indo-French economic ties and his achievements in telecommunications, digital infrastructure and satellite communications. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, presented Mittal with the insignia of Chevalier de lOrdre national de la Lgiondhonneur (Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour) during a ceremony at the Residence of France on October 28. Addressing the gathering, Mathou highlighted Mittals longstanding role in fostering economic partnerships between India and France, particularly through investments and collaborations in telecommunications, insurance and satellite communications. The conferring of the Chevalier de lOrdre national de la Lgiondhonneur on Mr Sunil Bharti Mittal comes in recognition of his outstanding contribution in promoting Indo-French economic ties, Mathou said. He noted that Mittal had strengthened business relations with France through partnerships involving AXA, the French multinational insurance group, and Alcatel-Lucent, the telecommunications equipment company. He also highlighted Mittals investment in Eutelsat, the French satellite communications company, as a contribution to Frances strategic ambitions in the space sector. According to Mathou, the honour reflects Frances appreciation of Mittals commitment to strengthening bilateral business relations through strategic partnerships, high-level diplomatic engagement and investments in satellite communications. Accepting the distinction, Mittal said he was humbled by the recognition from the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron. My association with France began at Airtels inception in 1992, when CompagnieGnrale des Eaux joined hands with Bharti to introduce mobile telephony in India, and continues today through my role as Vice-Prsident of Eutelsat, the European satellite champion, Mittal said. He expressed gratitude to Macron for the honour and reiterated his commitment to deepening economic relations between India and France. I accept this honour with gratitude to President Macron and with a renewed commitment to further deepen the economic ties between India and France, he said. The recognition comes as India and France continue to expand cooperation in strategic sectors, including space and digital technology, under their Special Global Strategic Partnership. Mittals role as vice-chairman of Eutelsat further underscores the growing importance of private-sector partnerships in advancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in satellite communications and digital connectivity.
Iqbalabad Bemina residents complain of unscheduled power cuts ahead of winter
Srinagar, Oct 29:Residents of Lane 4, Iqbalabad in Srinagars Bemina area on Thursday expressed resentment over frequent unscheduled power cuts, saying the irregular electricity supply was causing inconvenience to households and affecting students preparing for examinations ahead of winter. Residents said the area is fully metered and as per the scheduled curtailment, power cuts is to be limited to half an hour. But they said frequent and prolonged outages have become routine despite the prescribed schedule. Electricity is cut off at allmost everyday and such cuts are very common here, Syed Gayoor Iqbal, a local resident said that the situation has persisted despite repeated appeals to the concerned authorities. In a representation issued by the Welfare Committee of Iqbal Abad, Lane 4, residents said they were facing prolonged power cuts almost every night, along with frequent fluctuations in electricity supply during the day. They said the situation was particularly affecting schoolchildren, whose studies were being disrupted during the examination period due to unreliable electricity supply, especially during evening and night hours.
HC strikes down water usage charges on hydel projects
Srinagar, Oct 29:In a significant decision, the High Court of J&K and Ladakh Thursday struck down the levy of water usage charges on hydropower projects under the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010. In response to independent power producers pleas, which it allowed finally, a Division Bench of Justice Sanjay Dhar and Justice Rajnesh Oswal declared the Act of 2010 ultra vires the constitution to extent it imposed water usage charges upon the aggrieved companies and struck it down to that extent. The court noted that the charges effectively amounted to a tax on electricity generation that the erstwhile state legislature was not competent to impose, even as it restrained the government from imposing any tax on the generation of electricity under the garb of water usage charges or any other tax. Eleven independent power producers (IPPs) had petitioned court through their counsel, Shariq J Reyaz while two others had approached it through senior advocate Pranav Kohli, challenging the levy of charges for the use of water in generating hydroelectricity. The companies had questioned the legality of the charges imposed under the 2010 Act, contending that the use of water by hydropower projects was non-consumptive and that the levy, in substance, amounted to a tax on electricity generation rather than a fee for the use of water. They had also challenged the demand notices issued by the authorities in respect of water usage charges for generation of electricity pursuant to the provisions contained in the act. Opposing the pleas, the J&K government defended the levy with the contention that water resources fell within the legislative domain of the state and that the charges were regulatory in nature. In its stand, the Union of India had maintained that the state legislature was not competent to impose a tax on electricity generation, as the relevant constitutional entry empowers states to tax the consumption or sale of electricity, but not its generation. Disagreeing with the J&K governments stand, the court noted that the nature of a levy had to be determined by its substance and actual operation rather than the nomenclature assigned to it. The bench observed that the charges were calculated with reference to the head height from which water was used to propel turbines, rather than the quantity of water drawn or consumed. This indicated that the levy was linked to the electricity-generating potential of the water, it noted. Moreover, the court observed that the charges collected from hydropower projects were intended to fund the establishment of hydel and multipurpose hydroelectric projects, purchase of existing projects, investment in transmission and distribution networks, and procurement of electricity by the government or its entities. Since the levy was not linked to any specific service rendered to the hydropower projects, it possessed the character of a tax rather than a water usage fee, the court underscored. The erstwhile state legislature, it said, lacked the competence to impose such a tax when the legislation was enacted in 2010. Even if it is assumed that usage charges constitute a tax on water and not a tax on generation of electricity, still then the respondent-State does not have a case to save the legislation, the bench said, adding, This is so because even if it is assumed that the land includes water or that water is mineral still then in the face of nature of categorization of various fields in entries appearing in the State List, it becomes clear that waterfalls under a separate and distinct category whereas land and minerals fall under distinct categories. While the water has been categorized separately under Entry 17 of List-II, the court said, the land has been categorised separately under Entry 18 of List-II with taxing Entry 49. Taxing entry for minerals is Entry 50 of List-II. However, there is no taxing entry in the State List in respect of the water, the court said. It also rejected J&K governments argument that the subsequent adoption of the Act of 2010 under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, could validate a provision that was unconstitutional at its inception. The argument appears to be an attempt in desperation to save the impugned legislation. If we have a look at the provisions of the J&K Reorganisation Act, it becomes clear that what is being provided under the said Act is saving of certain State enactments and repeal of certain others, the court said. It also said that the legislation also provides for extension of Central enactments to the UTs of J&K and Ladakh and adoption of State enactments. Merely because the Act provides for adoption of State enactments and saves their application to UTs of J&K and Ladakh, the enactments do not become the enactments passed by the Parliament, the court underlined. If we accept the said argument, it would lead to absurdities. It shall result in a situation where a subject which, as per the Reorganisation Act, is reserved for the UT of J&K for legislative and executive powers, would become a subject of the Union Government, the court said This is not the intention of the J&K Reorganisation Act. In fact, Section 32(1) of the said Act clearly delineates the subjects over which the UT of J&K has legislative and executive powers. Merely because the certain State Acts have been adopted in terms of the J&K Re-organisation Act, which is an enactment of the Parliament, the adopted enactments would not cease to be enactments of the State of UT of J&K. The court concluded by declaring the relevant provisions of the 2010 Act ultra vires the constitution and struck them down insofar as they imposed water usage charges on the petitioners' hydropower projects.
Judge blocks Trump administration's Medicaid rule forcing sick recipients to prove frailty
A federal judge has ruled that chronically ill people on Medicaid wont be bound by new work requirement rules that the latest Trump administration guidance requires in order to qualify for medically frail exemptions
Scientists buried microplastics in a New Zealand harbour to study storm effects
GOC Northern Command reviews operational preparedness, security dynamics in Poonch and Rajouri
Poonch, Oct 29: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Armys Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited frontline unites along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and hinterland formations in Rajouri to review operational preparedness and prevailing security dynamics. During his visit, the Army Commander was briefed on operational challenges, joint intelligence frameworks and synergy with security agencies. Interacting with the troops, the Army Commander exhorted all ranks to remain proactive, vigilant and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance.
India's pharma exports rise 4.9% in H1: Pharmexcil
Experts warn of wider spread as Ebola outbreak reaches plateau
A major challenge in Congo is limited contact tracing and collaboration with affected communities; health workers sometimes spend more time trying to convince locals to work with them than giving care
Police arrest 8 drug peddlers in Anantnag, contraband substance recovered
Srinagar, Oct 29: Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and substance abuse, Jammu and Kashmir Police in Anantnag arrested eight drug peddlers in multiple operations conducted across the district in a single day, and recovered significant quantity of contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that at Pehru Crossing, a police party from Police Post Sherbagh arrested Abid Ahmad Mir, son of Bashir Ahmad Mir, resident of Chak Hangulgund, Kokernag, during naka checking and recovered approximately 118 grams of charas from his possession. Similarly, a police party from Police Station Kokernag arrested Mohammad Arif Naikoo, son of Abdul Gani Naikoo, resident of Gadool at link road connecting Bidder with Irkumoo, and recovered approximately 12 grams of charas from his possession. He said that during naka checking near Kirkadal, Bijbehara, a police party from Police Station Bijbehara arrested Tajdar Amin Khan, son of Mohd Amin Khan, resident of Sitari Mohalla, Bijbehara, and recovered approximately 20.6 grams of heroin from his possession. Meanwhile, in two separate incidents, Police Station Anantnag arrested Amir Hussain Sheikh son of Abdul Hamid Sheikh resident of Donipawa, Anantnag, and Bilal Ahmad Dar son of Abdul Rashid Dar resident of Halpora, Kokernag. Approximately 8 grams and 17 grams of charas, respectively, were recovered from their possession. At Sangam, a police party from Police Post Sangam arrested Mehboob Hussain Shah son of Maqbool Hussain Shah resident of Surankote, Poonch, and recovered 19 grams of charas from his possession. Besides, at Link Road Shehlipora, opposite NH-244/Stone Quarry, Achabal, a police party from PS Achabal arrested Moomin Nazir Wagay, son of Nazir Ahmad Wagay, resident of Kanganhal, and recovered approximately 19 grams of charas, including packing material from his possession. At Harnag, a police party from Police Post Khanabal apprehended Rahil Mushtaq Bhat, son of Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, resident of Aung Matipora, Anantnag, and recovered 150 grams of charas from his possession. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigations have been initiated, spokesperson added. Police reiterated its commitment to intensifying action against drug trafficking and appealed to the public to cooperate in the collective fight against drug abuse and work towards a drug-free society.
Kashmiri Singer Jamila Bashir Urges Support for New Singers and Regional Languages | GKTV Interview
Inside Actress Ayesha Khan's Mumbai Restaurant Serving Affordable Zero-Oil, Maida-Free Food
The actor revealed her restaurant offers zero-oil, no maida foods and sugar-free drinks.
Three siblings commit suicide in Maharashtra's Virar over lack of money for cancer treatment
Palghar, Oct 29: Three siblings allegedly committed suicide by consuming rat poison in Virar in Maharashtra's Palghar district due to financial distress after one of them was detected with cancer, a police official said on Thursday. The bodies of Kumar Mansukhlal Mehta (50), Deepak Mansukhlal Mehta (52), and Khevna Mansukhlal Mehta (48) were found in their flat in Virar's Global City at 9:30 pm on Wednesday after neighbours alerted authorities about a foul smell, the Bolinj police station official said. The flat was bolted from inside. The bodies were in a highly decomposed state. Kumar Mehta was suffering from cancer and the family had plunged into depression after it could not raise funds for treatment from relatives or friends, assistant inspector Vishnu Wadkar told PTI. The three siblings, who stayed together, consumed rat poison as part of a suicide pact, he said. A case of accidental death has been registered and further probe is underway, Wadkar said.
Leh, Kargil municipal polls on Nov 21; Model Code of Conduct comes into force
Leh, Oct 29: The elections to the municipal committees of Leh and Kargil, comprising 38 wards, will be held on November 21, Ladakh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Rahul Sharma announced on Thursday. According to a notification issued by the CEO, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force and will remain in effect until November 30, when the election process is completed. The last panchayat and municipal elections in Ladakh were held in 2018, when it was part of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The notification for fresh elections was issued as the terms of both municipal committees have ended. The electoral rolls for the Leh Municipal Committee, comprising 21 wards, and the Kargil Municipal Committee, comprising 17 wards, have been prepared and published, it said. As per the schedule, the last date for filing nominations is November 5, while scrutiny of nomination papers will be conducted on November 6. Candidates can withdraw their nominations till November 9, which is also the date for the allotment of election symbols and publication of the list of contesting candidates. Polling, if required, will be held on November 21, from 8 am to 5 pm in all wards of both municipal committees, it said. The elections are being conducted under the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, and the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Committee (Election) Rules, 2003.
Banks must compensate digital fraud victims for loss if due-diligence failure established: SC
New Delhi, Oct 29: The Supreme Court on Thursday said banks must be made accountable to indemnify losses suffered by digital fraud victims, who should receive compensation of at least the amount lost if an investigation establishes that the offence resulted from a failure of due diligence by the financial institutions. Observing that despite the fact that cyber crimes fell by 50 per cent, yet victims lost Rs 800 crore so far this year, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said the proposed Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulatory framework must incorporate enforceable provisions for compensation, preventive intervention and institutional accountability. The CJI said the bench would first examine the proposed RBI Know Your Customer (KYC) Amendment Directions, 2026, before permitting the regulatory process to proceed. The directions are proposed to be notified by November 30 and operationalised by December 31. The bench emphasised that the framework must go beyond general advisories and establish clear obligations on financial institutions, along with consequences for non-compliance. We emphasise that the regulatory measures proposed by the RBI must mandate financial institutions to indemnify victims of digital arrest or cyber fraud through suitable compensation, not less than the amount lost by the customer, where the fraud or crime is found to have resulted from a failure of due diligence by the financial institution, it said in its order. These are all hypertechnical things. Unless there is a penal direction to these banks, they will never mend their ways, the CJI said. It also reiterated that banks must temporarily suspend transactions that are inconsistent with an account holder's established transaction history, automatically report suspicious activity and undertake physical verification wherever necessary to establish the genuineness of a transaction. Fraud running into thousands of crores has taken place through digital arrest scams, and we are still unable to take very strong measures. Why can banks not be mandated to classify accounts into different groups? For individual account holders who have saved money over time, banks have the complete audit trail. They can use AI, the CJI said. The observations came during the hearing of the suo motu proceedings titled In Re: Victims of Digital Arrest Related to Forged Documents, initiated to strengthen the institutional response to digital arrest scams and related cyber-enabled financial crimes. During the hearing, the CJI questioned why banks could not intervene when an account holder suddenly sought to transfer a substantial sum that bore little resemblance to the person's usual banking activity. Describing banks as a protective umbrella for vulnerable customers, the CJI said financial institutions possess information about their account holders, including their transaction histories, and should use that knowledge to prevent fraud before money leaves an account. He drew a distinction between commercial accounts, where transactions worth crores of rupees may be routine, and individual accounts belonging to retired persons or ordinary savers who typically withdraw relatively small amounts. If that person suddenly seeks to transfer a large amount through RTGS, why can there not be intervention, the CJI asked. The bench suggested that financial institutions could classify accounts according to their nature and transaction patterns and deploy technology, including artificial intelligence, to identify deviations that may indicate coercion or fraud. It also called for a mechanism under which the nearest police station would be automatically alerted about suspicious high-value transactions involving customers potentially targeted by digital arrest fraudsters. Local police could then verify whether the account holder was knowingly initiating the transaction, it said. The CJI cautioned that retrospective investigations and reports would not be sufficient if institutions failed to prevent the transfer of funds in the first place. A report would only be a post-mortem. We are concerned with prevention, he said. Attorney General R Venkataramani, appearing for the Centre and other authorities, told the bench that substantial work had been undertaken to improve the detection of suspicious transactions and strengthen preventive mechanisms within the banking system. The CJI, however, questioned whether the proposed measures contained sufficiently strong accountability provisions and whether they would result in meaningful action against institutions that failed to comply. What are the accountability clauses in the guidelines? If a bank fails to comply, what is its accountability, the CJI asked. He further questioned whether the proposed framework would require a bank to compensate a victim in cases of digital arrest fraud. The attorney general submitted that the RBI was examining banking liability and the liability of individual bank officials, including personal liability and criminal prosecution where an employee was found to have colluded in a fraud. The regulation must include a liability clause. Otherwise, we will enforce it through a judicial order, the CJI said. The attorney general said that the government was not defending banking negligence or collusion and was examining the various aspects of prevention and accountability. The court emphasised that the RBI's proposed directions must spell out the extent of institutional liability, the safeguards available to customers and the process through which compliance would be enforced. The bench said it did not intend to require every individual bank to be impleaded in the proceedings. Instead, it directed the RBI to submit a list of all authorised financial institutions by the next hearing so that any directions issued by the court could apply across the sector. The CJI identified two areas requiring particular attention: the accountability of banks and the continued use of mule accounts to receive and transfer proceeds of cybercrime. Mule accounts, often operated or obtained through deceptive means, are used by fraudsters to move money between accounts and make the tracing and recovery of stolen funds more difficult. The bench also directed the law enforcement agencies of all states and Union territories to submit reports detailing FIRs registered in digital arrest scam cases and the investigations arising from them. The agencies have also been asked to provide suggestions for the prevention, detection and prosecution of such offences. The DGPs of all states and Union territories have been directed to ensure compliance. The reports must be submitted to the inter-departmental committee coordinating the government's response, with reports furnished to the court also being forwarded to the committee, the bench directed. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the bench the platform had taken preventive measures, including action against 9,400 accounts, and would file an affidavit detailing the steps undertaken. He said the platform was working on software to identify suspicious accounts and warn users.
13-year-old Florida boy restores marine life with clams, mangroves and oyster gardens
Captain Smit Machchhars Head Injury: Doctor Explains the Difference Between Staples and Stitches
After news of Captain Smit Machchhars head injury, many ask how wounds are closed. A doctor explains the difference between staples and stitches and how to care for them.
BCCI Will Explore Ways To Increase Number of Teams in WPL: Saikia
Saikia said WPL has come a long way in four years and the league was now dominating women's cricket
-1793270244552.webp)
What Happens If You Miss An IVF Injection? Fertility Specialists Explain
Missing an IVF injection can cause worry, but it does not automatically mean the cycle has failed. Fertility specialists explain the impact varies by medication and why you should never double a dose without medical advice.
This McDonald's Convention Features Classic Menu Items From All Over The World
A content creator got a chance to try international items at a McDonald's Convention.
Delhi HC refuses access to Race Course mosque for prayers
New Delhi, Oct 29: The Delhi High Court on Thursday refused to allow worshippers access to the Race Course mosque, even as the Centre assured no coercive action will be taken against the religious structure for the time being. Justice Anish Dayal, while hearing a petition to protect the mosque situated on a Lutyens' Delhi land parcel that has been taken over by the Centre for public purpose, noted the ongoing demolition work around the structure and said, If somebody gets injured, who is going to pay compensation? Union government standing counsel Ashish Dixit submitted that the authorities will decide a representation by the Delhi Waqf Board on the issue within four weeks and no coercive action would be taken in the meantime. In response to the petitioner's request to permit ingress and egress to the mosque, Dixit said such access would not be safe at this stage due to the ongoing demolition activity around it. Let it go. Let them decide. It is a fair submission. We can't force them to give access for prayers, the court told the petitioner's lawyer. Dixit said at present, worshippers are not permitted access to a temple on the site as well. Syed Ahmed Saud has sought directions from the court to protect the Race Course mosque -- a notified Waqf property since 1977 located in the precincts of Jaipur Polo Ground -- from demolition, as well as restoration of entry to the mosque. The Centre took over the Jaipur Polo Ground in June and the adjoining Delhi Race Club in August. Earlier, the Centre's counsel had said authorities have discontinued electricity and water supply to the mosque to avoid any risk to the public during demolition of other structures on the premises. The petitioner's counsel has argued that as a Grade II protected structure, any change in the mosque's existence required approval of the Heritage and Conservation Committee. He has said the authorities have brazenly and arbitrarily prohibited the petitioner from offering namaz at the mosque without any notice or order, which is in flagrant derogation of Articles 14 and 25 of the Constitution. The plea has alleged, On 21.10.2026, the petitioner, along with his friends, personally visited the subject masjid with the intention of offering namaz. However, upon reaching the recently installed iron gates at the entrance to the Race Course Compound, they were categorically denied entry by the security personnel stationed there. While the petitioner does not suggest that every restriction upon access constitutes conversion within the meaning of the Act, the State cannot disregard the historical religious character of the subject masjid when contemplating measures capable of permanently affecting its existence or religious identity, it added. The matter would be heard next on December 16.
-1793265129629.webp)
Can Smoking Make Your Voice Deeper? ENT Doctor Explains What Happens To Your Vocal Cords
Can smoking change your voice permanently? An ENT specialist explains how tobacco smoke affects the vocal cords, and whether quitting can reverse the damage and when to seek a doctor.
Deputy CM dismisses BJP's charge on representation of Jammu leaders in J-K cabinet
Jammu, Oct 29: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday said the BJP which called Independent MLA Satish Sharma Satish Abdullah is now shedding crocodile tears over his removal from the cabinet in a recent reshuffle. Countering the BJP's charge that the National Conference government had neglected Hindu leaders from the Jammu division, Choudhary alleged that the BJP had attempted to politically damage him and Sharma and had even branded them as Jaichands -- traitors -- in the past. I feel sad that Satish Sharma is no longer part of our cabinet. He was my colleague in the government until yesterday. But I am surprised to see the BJP shedding crocodile tears over his removal when the same party used to call Satish Sharma Satish Abdullah and me Surinder Abdullah, Choudhary told reporters during a visit to a market in railway station area here where a fire erupted. If the BJP had such objections to us, why is it expressing concern now over Satish Sharma's removal? The BJP in Jammu tried to get both Satish Sharma and Surinder Choudhary dropped, he alleged. Choudhary thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah for retaining him in the cabinet and continuing to repose faith in him as deputy chief minister. The National Conference gave Jammu honour and respect by appointing a Hindu leader as deputy chief minister. After the chief minister, the deputy CM holds the second-highest position in the government, he said. Referring to BJP chief spokesperson Sunil Sethi's allegation that the NC had become a Muslim Conference, Choudhary questioned the BJP's claims of secularism and inclusive governance. The BJP talks about Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. I want to ask the party whether it has appointed even one Muslim as a minister, CM or deputy CM in the governments it runs across the country or in central government he said. He challenged the BJP to explain why it was questioning the National Conference's credentials on representation when the party had elected Hindu representatives from Jammu and appointed him deputy CM. Choudhary also asserted that his Jat background did not make him any less Hindu or Dogra. Is Surinder Choudhary not a Hindu? Is a Jat not a Hindu? If I am not a Hindu, then the BJP should explain which communities it considers Hindu and which castes it recognises as part of Sanatan Dharma, he said. I am a devotee of Mata Vaishno Devi and a believer in Mata Durga. Whatever position I have reached today, I believe it is because of their blessings. The remarks made yesterday have hurt me because questions were raised against the entire Jat community, he said. Choudhary also invoked the historical association of the Dogra community with Maharaja Hari Singh's rule, saying members of the Jat community had also served during that period. He questioned the BJP's position on Dogra identity, arguing that the party had repeatedly claimed that Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians in Jammu could all be Dogras. If every person in Jammu, irrespective of religion, can be called a Dogra, then why is a Jat leader being questioned about his Hindu and Dogra identity? he asked. The deputy CM also expressed disappointment with BJP spokesperson Sunil Sethi, referring to his family association with former legislator Krishan Dev Sethi, whom Choudhary said he had admired and learnt from during his formative years. He further challenged the BJP to substantiate its allegations of corruption against him and asked the party to explain the sources of wealth of its own leaders. If the BJP has the courage, let it name the leaders who accumulated wealth after 2014, established stone crushers and factories, acquired vehicles and machinery, or opened big malls. Before pointing fingers at others, the BJP should look into its own affairs, he said. Accusing the BJP of damaging Jammu, Choudhary also questioned its response to the fire at Shiv Market, where several shops were gutted, and said the focus should remain on the suffering of affected traders. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expanded his council of ministers on Tuesday with the induction of four new faces from the Kashmir valley, triggering internal party discontent and protests, even as the opposition BJP hit out at the ruling alliance over egional and cultural imbalance. With all four inductees hailing from Kashmir, the expansion has shifted the balance of the cabinet in the two-year-old government heavily towards the valley. Seven ministers in the now 9-member council hail from Kashmir, while Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary and Javaid Rana remain the only two representatives from the Jammu region. Independent MLA from Chhamb, Satish Sharma, was dropped from the cabinet to accommodate the new inductees.
Four injured in multi-vehicle collision on NH-44 in Ramban
Ramban, Oct 29: Four persons were injured after a truck and two cars collided on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) in the Dalwas area of Ramban district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that the accident occurred near the New Petrol Pump at Dalwas when a truck bearing a Uttar Pradesh registration number collided with two cars travelling from Jammu towards Srinagar. He said four persons sustained injuries in the collision and were shifted to District Hospital Ramban for treatment. Their identities were not immediately known. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and a probe is underway.(KNO)
J&K weather to remain mostly dry after Friday, says MeT
Nike launches Vegam Run, its first running shoe designed for India
The sportswear maker claims the shoe is aimed at the countrys growing running community
Jammu market fire: Govt to extend assistance to affected shopkeepers, says Dy CM
Jammu, Oct 29: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday said the government would extend all possible assistance to those who suffered losses in the devastating blaze in the Shiva market here, and help them restart their businesses. A massive fire had ripped through the market early Sunday, gutting around 40 shops and reducing a bustling commercial stretch to rubble. Choudhary, who visited the market and interacted with shopkeepers, said the fire had destroyed the livelihood of several middle-class traders who had invested beyond their means in stocking goods ahead of Diwali and other festivals. This is a prominent and very old market near the railway station. I have visited this market many times and purchased goods here. These are mostly middle-class shopkeepers who had invested beyond their capacity in their businesses, he told reporters here. The government will extend whatever special assistance is possible. It is the government's responsibility and duty to stand by people in their time of distress, he said. The deputy chief minister said he had visited the market on the directions of the chief minister, who was currently in Delhi for important meetings and was expected to return to Jammu on November 2. He said he had interacted with Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Arun Gupta, the market president and members of the market committee to assess the losses and understand the concerns of the affected traders. I will arrange a meeting of the affected shopkeepers with the chief minister. I will also call the deputy commissioner and the Jammu Development Authority vice chairman to the Secretariat to discuss what can be done to help them, he said. Acknowledging that the assistance available under the existing guidelines might be limited, the deputy chief minister said the government would explore the possibility of extending relief on a special-case basis. If we strictly go by the MHA guidelines and the existing rules, these poor traders may not receive much assistance. But this is a special case because their livelihood is at stake, he said. However, he cautioned against making unrealistic promises. To say that we can compensate them 100 per cent for their losses would be impossible and would amount to making a false promise. But I can assure you that the government will extend full cooperation, to the extent possible, as a special case to help them restart their livelihoods, he said. He noted that the timing of the fire had compounded the losses as traders had stocked up on goods for Diwali, Vishwakarma Puja and Bhai Dooj. The deputy chief minister said he was informed that one trader had stocked goods worth Rs 50 lakh just two days before the incident. Imagine what he must be going through. The goods have been destroyed, and the damage to the shops is also extensive. Iron rods have come out of the roofs, which gives an idea of how intense and devastating the fire was, he said. The deputy chief minister urged the affected shopkeepers to prepare a memorandum outlining their demands and submit it to the chief minister during the proposed meeting. He also said traders could undertake minor repairs to their shops ahead of Diwali, which falls on November 8. Stressing that the issue should not be politicised, he said his visit was motivated by humanitarian considerations and the responsibility of an elected government towards those affected by the tragedy. This is not a political statement. It is a matter of humanity and the duty of a responsible government. We will try to find a solution so that these traders can resume their businesses, he said.
How Much Calcium Is in a Glass of Milk? Heres How Much You Really Get
When talking about dietary sources of calcium, milk always tops the list. We have grown up hearing how beneficial it is to drink milk for maintaining calcium levels. But do you know how much calcium you really get from a glass of milk and whether it suffices for the daily requirement?
Pulwamas Yasir Arafat Wani Wins Gold at National Powerlifting Championship
Youth are J&Ks strength, must stay away from drugs: LG Sinha
Meet Aniket Bera: Researcher builds a drone to track people without GPS
Martyrs sacrifices inspire sporting events in J&K: DGP
Special Traffic Plan For Darbar Move On Oct 31, Nov 1: DIG Traffic Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 29: Heavy traffic will not be allowed from Jammu towards Srinagar during the Darbar Move movement on October 31 and November 1, while fruit-laden trucks will be given priority, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir Haseeb Ur Rehman said on Thursday. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir Haseeb Ur Rehman said a [] The post Special Traffic Plan For Darbar Move On Oct 31, Nov 1: DIG Traffic Kashmir appeared first on Northlines .
Deputy CM visits fire-hit Shiv Market, promises special assistance to traders
Sports can help youth overcome mobile phone addiction: DGP Prabhat
Srinagar, Oct 29: Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on Thursday urged young people to take part in sporting activities to promote physical and mental fitness, overcome mobile phone addiction and steer clear of social evils such as drug abuse and gambling. Addressing participants at the Pedal Through Paradise cycling event in Srinagar, Prabhat said sports instil discipline and resilience among young people while contributing to a healthier society. Cycling is not just a symbol of a healthy lifestyle. Apart from making you physically strong, it also makes you mentally resilient and helps you develop discipline, he said. Highlighting the growing problem of excessive mobile phone use, the DGP said, Today, the biggest problem across the world is smartphone or cellphone addiction. We are constantly on screens, and this is neither good for our health nor for the prosperity of society. He said sporting activities could help people break away from excessive screen time and sedentary lifestyles, which contribute to health problems and impose a burden on society. Prabhat paid tribute to 1,621 police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty, saying their sacrifices had helped create conditions for sporting events and other constructive activities in Jammu and Kashmir. He credited the youth for contributing to the strengthening of peace in the Union Territory and said sports could help them channel their aspirations positively. Our youth are our asset. You are our future, and it is because of you that progress will take place here, a hundred times more than what has been achieved so far, he said. The DGP said Jammu and Kashmir Police was committed to engaging young people through various programmes and helping eliminate social evils. We are committed to continuously engaging with our youth through different programmes and trying to eliminate all the evils in society, whether it is drug abuse or gambling, he said. Prabhat also announced a series of sporting events to be organised in honour of police martyrs, including a hockey tournament and a cricket tournament, besides the Martyrs Memorial Football Tournament in Srinagar. A Run for Unity event is also scheduled to be held in Jammu. He said 28 indoor and open-air games were being organised across the Union Territory. Referring to recent sporting events, the DGP said the Jashn-e-Dal marathon had drawn around 6,000 participants, the highest participation recorded in the police-led activities so far. Women and young people participated across 46 categories, he added. Congratulating the winners and thanking participants, Prabhat said the success of sporting events depended on large-scale public participation. If there is no participation on such a large scale, the programme cannot become what we want it to be, he said. He also thanked the Additional Director General of Police, Armed Police, Nitish Kumar, the organising committee and other partners for making the cycling event successful.
Karwa Chauth 2026: The Right Way To Break Your Fast And What To Eat Afterwards
Women break their fast after moon sighting by offering water to the moon and drinking water offered by their husbands.
-1793254776878.webp)
Can Lack of Sleep Cause a Stroke? Neurologist and Neurosurgeon Explain
Does skipping sleep affect your stroke risk? A neurologist and a neurosurgeon explain how short and long sleep, sleep apnoea and poor quality sleep link to stroke.
