Opinion

Youth found dead in Jammus Miran Sahib

Jammu, Nov 07: A 23-year-old youth was found dead inside his rented room in the Miran Sahib area of Jammu district on Saturday morning, officials said. An official said that the youth was found dead inside his rented accommodation in Miran Sahib, Jammu. He was immediately shifted to Government Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, where doctors declared him brought dead. The deceased has been identified as Chander (23), a native of Bihar who was residing in Jammu. Meanwhile, cognizance of the incident has been taken up.(KNO)

Kashmir shivers as Shopian freezes at minus 0.9C

Srinagar, Nov 07: Shopian recorded the coldest night of the ongoing season in Kashmir at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, while temperatures across the Valley continued to hover around the freezing point, with Leh in Ladakh recording the lowest minimum temperature at minus 4.2 degrees Celsius. According to temperature data, Pulwama recorded a minimum temperature of minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Pahalgam at 0.0 degrees Celsius and Kukernag at 0.2 degrees Celsius. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 2.0 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund also settled at 2.0 degrees Celsius. Kupwara recorded 1.5 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg 1.2 degrees Celsius. Srinagar Airport recorded 0.8 degrees Celsius, while Sonamarg settled at 0.6 degrees Celsius. Budgam and Konibal Pampore recorded 1.1 degrees Celsius each. Baramulla recorded 3.7 degrees Celsius, while Kulgam settled at 3.3 degrees Celsius. In Jammu division, Jammu Airport recorded a minimum temperature of 15.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Kathua at 15.2 degrees Celsius. Jammu city and Katra both recorded 14.0 degrees Celsius. Bhadarwah recorded 4.8 degrees Celsius, Banihal 6.7 degrees Celsius, Rajouri 7.2 degrees Celsius and Kishtwar 8.8 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Ladakh continued to experience sub-zero temperatures, with Leh recording minus 4.2 degrees Celsius, the lowest across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Kargil recorded minus 1.4 degrees Celsius, while Nubra Valley settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius.(KNO)

A 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' test: Risks of reforms without consultation

Between the farm laws and Agnipath, you could say the Modi government erred in taking its most loyal constituencies for granted: Hindi-heartland farmers and soldiers

PM Modi conveys Diwali greetings to citizens

New Delhi, Nov 07: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday conveyed Diwali greetings to people and said the festival celebrates the eternal victory of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope over despair. Modi hoped that this festive season inspires everyone to spread kindness, embrace positivity and work towards a brighter future. Dear fellow citizen, warm greetings on the auspicious occasion of Diwali! This festival celebrates the eternal victory of light over darkness, goodness over evil and hope over despair, he said in a message posted on the government of India's 'Jan Sampark Portal'. The prime minister said Diwali is also an occasion to cherish India's rich traditions and strengthen the bonds of togetherness. May Diwali illuminate every home with happiness, harmony and prosperity. May this festive season inspire us to spread kindness, embrace positivity and work towards a brighter future, he said. Modi urged everyone to move forward with renewed energy and determination to build a prosperous and 'Viksit Bharat'. Once again, wishing you a Happy Diwali, he said.

Iran reviewing proposals on Tehran's nuclear programme: Officials

Washington, Nov 07: Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the United States about Tehran's nuclear programme, government officials from both West Asian countries said Friday. The development is raising hopes that the two sides could be inching toward indirect talks on one of the thorniest issues that US President Donald Trump says must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, is unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Iran and Qatari officials' stepped-up engagement -- and Tehran showing a glint of openness to the possibility of negotiating on its nuclear programme -- comes just days after Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. Signs of hope for talks emerge after Iran war contributed to Republican losses The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals, but Trump noted Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the US, which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the US blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

US military carries out fresh targeted strike on Iran as Tehran weighs mediator's proposals

Washington, Nov 07: President Donald Trump said the US military on Friday carried out fresh limited strikes on Iran, targeting its air defense systems. Iranian state media reported the sound of two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, which is in the crucial waterway for oil shipments. Trump in an exchange with reporters described the military action as minor. They knocked out -- they built a little bit of an anti-aircraft device and we knocked it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five, Trump told reporters shortly after arriving in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday evening. The US military also reported carrying out what it described as defensive strikes on Monday. Explosions were heard on the islands of Qeshm and Hengam in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and in the nearby mainland area of Bandar Abbas. Friday's strikes are the first since Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. In the days since Republicans' shellacking at the polls, Trump has vacillated between threatening to destroy Iran and suggesting that a resolution to the war is near. Qatar presents new proposals to Iran officials Earlier Friday, officials from the two West Asian governments said Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the US about Tehran's nuclear programme. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, remains unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Difference over Iran's nuclear programme is the thorniest issue and one that Trump insists must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The US Central Command, which oversees US military operations in West Asia, announced in a post on X late Friday that the United States was offering a reward of up to USD 20 million and possible relocation for information about Iran's nuclear programme, including its facilities, equipment, and associated personnel, such as those in the scientific community, or the movement of any of the above. The post included a link to the State Department's Rewards for Justice programme. Iran insists on several concessions before nuclear talks The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals on Iran's nuclear programme, but Trump noted earlier Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the U.S., which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the U.S. blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

5-day specialised training course at SKPA Udhampur concludes

Udhampur, Nov 6:The five-day specialised training course on Advance technology in Forensic Science, organised by Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy (SKPA), Udhampur, concluded on Friday with a valedictory function held at the interaction hall, admin block of the Academy. The course was aimed to familiarise the participants with the latest technological advancements and emerging trends in forensic science, along with their practical applications in criminal investigations. It provided police personnel an opportunity to gain valuable insights into modern forensic techniques, scientific examination of evidence and the effective utilisation of advanced technologies in crime detection and investigation. Director SKPA Udhampur IGP Dr Mohd Haseeb Mughal, while addressing the participants at the valedictory function, highlighted the growing significance of forensic science and technological advancements in modern policing and criminal investigations. He emphasised that scientific investigation and the effective utilisation of advanced forensic technologies had become indispensable components of professional policing. He stressed the need for investigating officers to remain abreast of the latest developments in forensic science to ensure the proper collection, preservation, examination and effective utilisation of scientific evidence in criminal cases. The Director further observed that the integration of modern technology with conventional investigative practices would significantly enhance the quality, credibility and effectiveness of criminal investigations. He encouraged the participants to make optimum use of the knowledge and practical skills acquired during the training programme and apply them effectively in their respective professional assignments. The training programme was specifically designed to enhance the professional competence of participating personnel and strengthen their capabilities to undertake scientific, systematic and evidence-based investigations. Through such specialised training initiatives, SKPA Udhampur continues to reaffirm its commitment to capacity building, professional excellence and continuous upgradation of investigative skills among police personnel, enabling them to effectively address emerging challenges in the field of law enforcement, a spokesperson said.

Rajouri circular road restored for one way traffic

Rajouri, Nov 6: A vital circular road passing through Rajouri town, has been partially restored - after remaining closed for several months, ahead of the Diwali festival, providing much-needed relief to commuters. The road was damaged during recent floods, with a portion washed away thus disrupting traffic movement along the important stretch. The Public Works Department had taken up restoration work following the damage. Keeping in view the Diwali festival and the expected increase in movement of people, the road has now been partially restored to facilitate traffic. Traffic Police has informed that the road has been reopened from one side, allowing only Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) to ply between Bela bridge and Tariq bridge. The restoration is expected to ease traffic movement in the town, while further restoration work is likely to continue.

AIIMS Jammu doctors perform RFA for trigeminal neuralgia in high-risk patient

Jammu, Nov 6: Doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jammu, successfully performed Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Trigeminal Neuralgia in a high-risk patient with multiple comorbidities, including diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and heart block. The 72-year-old male patient from Samba district had been suffering from severe facial pain for almost 10 years and had consulted multiple doctors. Over time, the pain had become refractory to medications and was severely affecting his quality of life, as he was unable to eat or sleep properly. He presented to the Pain Clinic at AIIMS Jammu and was diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia. Trigeminal Neuralgia causes severe, electric shock-like pain in the face that occurs multiple times a day, often triggered by simple activities such as eating or talking. The pain is so intense that the condition is also known as the suicide disease. In view of his heart block, a pacemaker was first inserted by the Department of Cardiology. Performing RFA in a patient with a pacemaker requires specialised care, as the radiofrequency current can interfere with the device. The mode of the pacemaker was therefore changed accordingly, and the patient was kept under advanced haemodynamic monitoring throughout the procedure. The advanced interventional procedure was performed under X-ray guidance by Dr Kanika Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Anaesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain. Anaesthesia and advanced haemodynamic monitoring were managed by Dr Jagriti and Dr Disha, along with anaesthesia technical team. Following the procedure, the patient is now completely pain-free and off all pain medications and is able to eat and sleep normally, the doctors said. The successful outcome was made possible through close inter-departmental collaboration between the Departments of Cardiology and Anaesthesiology. Prof (Dr) Sunana Gupta, Professor and Head, Department of Anaesthesiology, said, This case shows that even high-risk patients with multiple diseases can safely benefit from interventional pain procedures when performed with the right precautions and teamwork. Our department is committed to expanding these services so that more patients can live pain-free. Prof (Dr) Sanjeev Sinha, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, lauded the medical teams for their coordinated efforts and highlighted the institutes commitment to providing advanced, safe and patient-centred care. He emphasised that multidisciplinary teamwork and specialised expertise could play a vital role in managing complex cases and improving the quality of life of patients suffering from chronic pain.

Sat Sharma releases special edition of BJP magazine Kamal Sandesh on SIR

Jammu, Nov 6:Jammu and Kashmir BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma released a special edition of the party's magazine Kamal Sandesh, exclusively dedicated to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, at a function held at the party headquarters in Jammu on Friday. The special edition was released in the presence of BJP general secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Baldev Singh Billawaria and Gopal Mahajan, Publication Department incharge Rajnish Jain and Department for Development of Literature incharge Varinderjeet Singh and BJP ST Morcha president Choudhary Abdul Gani. The special edition contains informative articles, poems, columns and other writings highlighting the importance, objectives, benefits and significance of SIR in strengthening the democratic system. Senior BJP leaders have contributed their writings and efforts towards preparing this edition to create greater awareness among the people. Speaking on the occasion, Sat Sharma said that bringing out a special edition of Kamal Sandesh on SIR was indeed a commendable initiative aimed at educating the people about the importance of maintaining accurate, transparent and updated electoral rolls. He said that every eligible citizen had the right to vote and it was equally important to ensure that electoral rolls were free from errors, duplicate entries and names of deceased or otherwise ineligible persons, following the prescribed procedure. Sat Sharma said that SIR was an important exercise which could strengthen public confidence in the electoral system and help ensure free and fair elections. He stressed that genuine voters should not face difficulties and that public awareness is essential for the successful implementation of such an exercise. Appreciating the efforts of the Publication Department, Department for Development of Literature and all contributors, Sat Sharma said that literature and publications played an important role in spreading awareness and presenting important issues in simple and understandable language. Sat Sharma expressed hope that this special edition would prove to be of great educational and informative value for party workers, voters and the general public. He said that it would help readers understand the purpose of SIR, clear misconceptions and encourage responsible participation in the democratic process. He also called upon party workers to take the magazine's message to the grassroots level and encourage people to remain informed about their electoral rights and responsibilities.

Security heightened in Rajouri, Poonch during festive season

Rajouri, Nov 6: Security has been strengthened across Rajouri and Poonch districts ahead of Diwali, with security forces stepping up vigil in crowded areas and market places amid increased public movement during the festive season. Markets in the twin districts are witnessing a rush of shoppers, with people visiting different market areas to purchase goods ahead of the festival. To maintain law and order and ensure the safety of the public, additional security personnel have been deployed in busy markets and other crowded locations. Security forces are also maintaining heightened surveillance in vulnerable areas. Explosive detection teams and sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to conduct checks in crowded places as part of the security arrangements. Meanwhile, police personnel are making public announcements across the twin districts, urging people to immediately report any suspicious object, activity or person to the Police Control Room (PCR).

Police intensify foot patrolling, surveillance in Ramban

Ramban, Nov 6:In view of the upcoming Diwali festival, Police have intensified security and preventive measures across Ramban district to ensure peaceful celebrations and maintain law and order. As part of the enhanced security arrangements, Police, in coordination with the Special Operations Group (SOG) Ramban, have launched a series of coordinated security and checking operations at various locations across the district. The measures include extensive foot patrolling in market areas, public places and other sensitive locations, besides sanitisation of dhoks and vulnerable areas to strengthen the security grid and prevent any untoward incident. Police teams are also conducting inspections of firecracker sale points to ensure compliance with prescribed safety norms and regulations. Meanwhile, the SOG Ramban has established Mobile Vehicle Check Posts (MVCPs) at strategic locations, while intensive vehicle checking is being carried out to maintain surveillance and strengthen security. Traffic violators are also being challaned as part of efforts to ensure road safety and discipline. Officials said these proactive measures were aimed at preventing anti-social activities, strengthening security arrangements and ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the public during the festive season. Police appealed to the general public to celebrate Diwali responsibly, adhere to safety guidelines, cooperate with police and other security personnel, and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

DIG-UR reviews security arrangements ahead of Diwali

Jammu, Nov 6:Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG-P), Udhampur-Reasi (U-R) range, Swarn Singh Kotwal on Friday chaired a security review meeting to assess the preparedness and security arrangements in Udhampur and Reasi districts ahead of the Diwali festival. The meeting was attended by SSP Udhampur, SSP Reasi, Chief Medical Officers of both districts, Additional SP Udhampur, Additional SP Katra, Additional SP Reasi, DCIO Intelligence Bureau (IB) Udhampur and other supervisory officers of the two districts. Some officers also participated in the meeting virtually. During the meeting, the DIG reviewed the prevailing security scenario and preparedness for the festive period. He directed officers to remain extra vigilant and ensure peaceful and incident-free Diwali celebrations. Emphasis was laid on strengthening the security grid, intensifying naka checking, maintaining heightened surveillance and ensuring adequate deployment of police personnel at vulnerable and sensitive locations. The DIG also stressed the need for effective traffic regulation and management, particularly around crowded markets, religious places and other public gathering points, to ensure smooth movement of commuters and devotees. Special attention was given to regulating the sale and storage of firecrackers, with directions to ensure strict adherence to prescribed safety norms in coordination with the concerned departments. The role of the Health department and emergency response services in ensuring timely assistance during any eventuality was also discussed. Stressing the importance of coordination among police units, intelligence agencies and civil administration, the DIG directed officers to maintain a high level of alertness and adopt a proactive approach throughout the festive period. He further instructed officers to remain accessible to the public, promptly address security-related concerns and put in place all necessary arrangements to ensure that Diwali is celebrated in a peaceful, safe and secure atmosphere across Udhampur and Reasi districts.

Formulate comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations across J&K: IGP traffic

Jammu, Nov 6:Inspector General of Police (IGP), Traffic J&K, M Suleman Choudhary has directed officers to formulate comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations in both Jammu and Srinagar cities as well as other major towns, keeping in view of the expected increase in vehicular and pedestrian movement due to festive shopping and public gatherings. He was reviewing traffic arrangements for the Diwali celebrations, winter preparedness in Kashmir and along the National Highway, while chairing a meeting with senior Traffic Police officers on November 5. He also focussed on identifying traffic congestion points and accident-prone locations, assessing enforcement measures besides reviewing road accident hotspots and black spots. The meeting also deliberated upon the measures aimed at preventing road accidents, easing traffic congestion and strengthening traffic regulation and enforcement across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended in-person by Mohammad Rashid Bhat Staff Officer to IGP Traffic, Amit Bhasin SSP Traffic City Jammu, Master Popsy SSP Traffic Rural Jammu, Dr Sunniya Wani DySP Traffic City South Jammu, Ashwani Kumar, DySP Traffic City North Jammu, Tilak Raj Bhardwaj, DySP Traffic City Rural Jammu, Gowhar Yasin Qadri, DySP Traffic Hqrs J&K and Farooq Ahmad, ADO, Traffic Hqrs J&K. The out stationed officers Haseeb-Ur-Rehman, DIG Traffic Range Kashmir, Bisma Qazi, SSP traffic City Srinagar, K M Priyanka SSP Traffic NHW Ramban and Liaqat Ali SSP traffic Rural Kashmir attended the meeting through video conferencing. With regard to comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations, IG Traffic stressed that special attention should be given to market areas, shopping complexes, religious places, major intersections and locations where temporary stalls, particularly those selling sweets and firecrackers, were likely to be established. Officers were directed to ensure visible deployment of traffic personnel, regulate roadside parking, prevent unauthorised encroachments and ensure smooth movement of emergency vehicles. M Suleman Choudhary also directed the Kashmir based Traffic Police officers and SSP Traffic NHW to remain fully prepared for the forthcoming winter season and formulate a comprehensive winter traffic management plan, particularly for Qazigund, the National Highway, Mughal Road and Sonamarg. Officers were instructed to identify vulnerable stretches, landslide-prone areas, snow accumulation points and other critical locations in advance. In the event of any prediction of heavy rainfall or snowfall, adequate manpower and machinery, including snow cutters and other snow-clearance equipment, should be kept in a state of readiness in coordination with the concerned road maintaining agencies. No vehicle will be allowed to proceed towards vulnerable stretches without proper assessment of road conditions and necessary clearance from the competent authorities, he issued instructions. Emphasising road safety, IGP Traffic directed all officers to adopt a proactive approach towards prevention of road accidents and intensify enforcement against traffic violations that pose a serious threat to human life. He reiterated that public convenience, road safety and smooth regulation of traffic must remain the foremost priorities of all Traffic Police formations. He called upon officers to ensure effective implementation of the directions issued during the meeting. IGP Suleman Choudhary emphasised that coordinated efforts, professional commitment and timely intervention were essential for ensuring safe, smooth and hassle-free movement of traffic throughout Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during the forthcoming festive season and challenging winter months.

Govt appoints 20 general observers for Accounts Assistant Exam

Srinagar, Nov 6: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed 20 JKAS officers as General Observers to oversee the conduct of the OMR-based written examination for the posts of Accounts Assistant in the Finance Department, scheduled to be held on November 15. According to Government Order No. 1747-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on November 6, the officers will supervise the examination in their respective districts. The officers appointed as General Observers include Manzoor Ahmad Bhat for Ganderbal, Altaf Ahmad Khan for Kulgam, Amarjeet Singh for Poonch, Gulzar Ahmad Bhat for Pulwama, Dr Nasir Ahmad Lone for Shopian, Sher Singh for Jammu and MalikzadaSherazulHaq for Rajouri. Other officers appointed include Ghulam Rasool for Kupwara, Surinder Mohan for Kathua, Champa Devi for Samba, Jugal Kishore Anand for Udhampur, Krishan Lal for Reasi and Nazir Ahmad Mir for Bandipora. The remaining appointments include Rishi Kumar Sharma for Kishtwar, Abdul Rashid Dass for Anantnag, Mohd Ashraf for Doda, Zahid Rashid Khan for Budgam, Mohammad Ashraf for Baramulla, Abdul Qyume for Ramban and Abid Iqbal Malik for Srinagar. The order has been issued by M. Raju, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, and circulated to Deputy Commissioners, concerned departments and the J&K Services Selection Board.

SC refuses to lift non-veg food ban near Somnath Temple, asks Gujarat HC to decide within 2 months

New Delhi, Nov 6:The Supreme Court on Friday refused to lift the ban on the preparation, sale and storage of non-vegetarian food in the vicinity of Gujarats Somnath Temple, but asked the Gujarat High Court to decide the matter expeditiously, preferably within two months, reports Bar & Bench. A Bench of Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale declined to interfere with an interim order of the Gujarat High Court restoring the ban. Hearing a plea filed by restaurant owners, the Bench said a balance had to be maintained in the matter. We need to maintain a balance. We dont say anything, the Bench observed, according to Bar & Bench. The restaurant owners argued that the ban would severely affect their businesses and that dietary choices were a matter of personal freedom. In a lighter remark, the Bench said, Celebrate the festival of lights (Diwali) by having sweets. Leave veg or non-veg aside. The case relates to an August 10 notification issued by the District Magistrate prohibiting the preparation, sale and storage of non-vegetarian food at shops, restaurants, hotels and roadside stalls in specified areas, including within 500 metres of Somnath Temple. The Gujarat High Courts single-judge Bench had initially set aside the notification on October 30. However, a Division Bench stayed that order later the same day and restored the restrictions. Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the restaurant owners, argued that the ban was affecting businesses that had been operating in the area for nearly 40 years. He also maintained that food habits were a matter of personal choice. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Gujarat government, opposed the plea and informed the Supreme Court that the High Court would hear the matter on November 25. The Supreme Court disposed of the plea, requesting the High Court to decide the appeal expeditiously within two months.

Uttarakhand Police to ensure convictions within 3 years in cases registered after May 2027: Amit Shah

New Delhi, Nov 6:Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said Uttarakhand Police would complete the process of securing convictions within three years in cases registered after May 2027, expressing confidence that people in the state would be freed from endless court dates under the new criminal laws. Addressing a ceremony to present the Presidents Colour to Uttarakhand Police, Amit Shah said the state had made significant progress in implementing the new criminal laws by integrating police stations, forensic science laboratories, courts, prosecution and prisons through digital platforms. He said Uttarakhand Police had secured the top national position on the CCTNS/ICJS 2.0 dashboard with a score of 93.46. Amit Shah said the force had become the 16th police organisation in the country to receive the prestigious Presidents Colour, recognising its service, sacrifice, discipline and professionalism over the past 25 years. He also paid tribute to 206 police personnel who had laid down their lives in the line of duty and praised the force for its role in disaster response, including the Silkyara tunnel rescue operation.

GMC Jammu gets 12 additional PG medical seats, total rises to 254: Sakina Itoo

Jammu, Nov 6:Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu has received 12 additional postgraduate (PG) medical seats, taking the total number of seats from 242 to 254, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced on Friday. In a post on X, the minister said the increase would strengthen postgraduate medical education at the institution and expand opportunities for medical graduates. As per the announcement, MD Pathology seats have increased from 18 to 23, while MD Paediatrics seats have risen from 18 to 20. Similarly, MD Pharmacology seats have increased from 10 to 12 and MD Microbiology from seven to eight. In another significant development, MD Respiratory Medicine has been introduced at GMC Jammu for the first time, with two seats. Itoo said that over the past two years, 70 MBBS and 56 postgraduate seats have been added across Jammu and Kashmir. DM/MCh seats are also expected to be introduced shortly. The minister described the expansion as another milestone under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah towards strengthening medical education in Jammu and Kashmir.

Kashmiri apple prices surge ahead of Diwali

Shopian, Nov 6: Apple prices in wholesale fruit markets across south Kashmir have witnessed a significant surge ahead of Diwali, with premium-quality produce fetching higher rates amid increased demand from markets outside the Union Territory. Mohammad Ashraf Wani, President of Fruit MandiShopian, said premium-quality apples are currently selling between Rs 1,300 and Rs 1,500 per box, while medium-quality, five-layer apples are fetching between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,200 per box. There has been a rise in prices ahead of Diwali, particularly for premium-quality apples. The rates for medium-quality produce are also holding up well, Wani said. He, however, maintained that prices had remained relatively stable throughout the season, ensuring reasonable returns for growers. Although prices have witnessed a surge in the run-up to Diwali, the overall market remained good this season. Growers have received satisfactory rates for their produce, he said. Mohammad Saleem Mir, an apple grower from Aliyalpora village in Shopian, said increased demand ahead of Diwali had contributed to an improvement in prices, particularly for better-quality produce. Prices have surged in the run-up to Diwali, but overall, the market remained good throughout the season, Mir said. He said the market had offered growers a relatively favourable environment, although returns continued to depend largely on the quality and grading of apples. Those who have managed to produce good-quality apples are getting better prices. The difference in rates between premium and medium-quality apples remains significant, he said. The apple trade continues to be one of the major economic activities in South Kashmir, with thousands of trucks transporting the seasonal harvest to wholesale markets across the country. Around 2,000 fruit-laden trucks leave Kashmir every day, carrying apples to different markets outside the Valley. The daily movement reflects the scale of the seasonal trade and the importance of transportation networks in connecting local growers with buyers across the country. Shopian, one of Kashmirs major apple-producing districts, accounts for a substantial share of the Valleys apple trade. The industry supports thousands of orchardists, traders, commission agents, transporters and workers engaged in harvesting, grading, packaging and transportation. Growers said that while seasonal fluctuations in prices were common, the availability of buyers and demand for high-quality produce remained crucial in determining their returns. The improvement in prices ahead of Diwali has provided additional gains to growers, even as they maintain that the season as a whole has been relatively encouraging for the apple industry. The positive market sentiment has also had a spillover effect on other businesses, with traders reporting increased customer activity in local markets. The good prices fetched by apples have also lifted the overall market sentiment, with buyers thronging markets to purchase other commodities, said Tariq Ahmad Mir, who runs Bright Kitchen Ware store in Batapora, Shopian.

Inter-University Canoeing, Kayaking:Cluster University Srinagar clinches 2 gold medals

Srinagar, Nov 6:Cluster University of Srinagar has brought laurels to the institution by clinching two gold medals, one in the 200-metre singles and another in the 200-metre doubles category, at the Inter-University Canoeing and Kayaking Championship held at Mohali, which saw participation from 35 universities. Mohsin Ali, a student of Amar Singh College College, and Fida Hussain, a student of IASE, M.A Road Srinagar, delivered outstanding performances to secure gold medals in their respective events, showcasing exceptional sporting talent, determination and competitive excellence, a statement said. Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Srinagar, Prof.(Dr) Muhammad Mobin, congratulated the medal winners and appreciated their remarkable achievement, describing it as a moment of immense pride for the university. He emphasised that sports constitute an integral component of holistic education and reaffirmed the universitys commitment to nurturing sporting talent and providing students with opportunities to excel at national platforms.

GMC Baramulla introduces advanced procedure for patients suffering from severe facial pain

Baramulla, Nov 6:Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla has introduced an advanced interventional pain-management procedure, Gasserian ganglion ablation, offering a new treatment option for patients suffering from severe facial pain caused by trigeminal neuralgia. The procedure is aimed at patients who fail to respond adequately to conventional medication or experience significant side effects from prolonged drug treatment. Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic nerve disorder characterised by sudden, intense, electric shock-like pain, usually affecting one side of the face. Even routine activities such as eating, speaking, brushing teeth or touching the face can trigger excruciating episodes, severely affecting patients quality of life. DrOvais, Assistant Professor in the Department of Anaesthesia at GMC Baramulla, said the introduction of the procedure would provide significant relief to patients suffering from the debilitating condition. He said many patients remained unaware of specialised treatment options and continued to rely on medication and other pain-management therapies that sometimes failed to provide lasting relief. DrOvaisemphasised the need to create awareness about trigeminal neuralgia and the availability of advanced interventions at GMC Baramulla. He said the facility would particularly benefit patients who otherwise had to travel outside north Kashmir to access specialised pain-management services. Recently, doctors at the medical college successfully performed the procedure on an approximately 80-year-old man who had been suffering from severe facial pain for nearly eight years. The pain, predominantly affecting his lower jaw, had become increasingly debilitating over the past year, making even routine activities difficult. The patient had initially been prescribed carbamazepine and other medications but discontinued treatment due to inadequate pain relief and adverse drug effects. Mistaking the condition for a dental problem, he also underwent multiple tooth extractions without experiencing any significant improvement. His condition eventually deteriorated to the extent that even a gentle touch or a breeze of air across his face triggered severe pain. He had to wear a mask throughout the day and night to avoid such triggers, DrOvais said. Following a detailed evaluation at the GMC Baramulla Pain Clinic, the patient was diagnosed with classical trigeminal neuralgia. Considering the prolonged symptoms and inadequate response to medical treatment, doctors decided to perform fluoroscopy-guided Gasserian ganglion ablation. The intervention was carried out as a day-care procedure. The patient was kept under observation for four hours following the intervention and subsequently discharged without any immediate complications. Gasserian ganglion ablation is an interventional pain-management technique that targets the nerve pathways responsible for transmitting facial pain. Using fluoroscopic imaging for guidance, specialists access the Gasserianganglion, a cluster of nerve cells associated with the trigeminal nerve, and apply a controlled intervention to disrupt abnormal pain signals. The procedure is considered for appropriately selected patients whose symptoms remain inadequately controlled despite medication or who experience significant adverse effects from prolonged drug treatment. Doctors said early diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention were important to prevent prolonged suffering and improve the quality of life of patients. With the introduction of the procedure, GMC Baramulla aims to strengthen its specialised pain-management services and make advanced treatment options accessible to patients closer to their homes. Doctors have advised people experiencing recurrent episodes of severe, electric shock-like pain on one side of the face to seek medical evaluation instead of repeatedly attributing the symptoms to dental problems.

New Session, Old Textbooks: Fresh books elude Kashmir government schools

Srinagar, Nov 6: The new academic session has begun in schools across Kashmir, but thousands of students in government schools are yet to receive fresh textbooks, forcing the School Education Department (SED) to depend on used books from previous academic sessions to keep classroom activities running. The non-availability of newly published textbooks from the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has once again raised questions over the departments preparedness and its failure to ensure timely distribution of learning material before the commencement of the academic session. An official told Greater Kashmir that with schools having resumed academic activities, students were being provided textbooks used by their seniors during the previous academic session and even earlier years. However, he said many of these books were in poor condition, with several already worn out and unfit for further use. Like previous years, the department has once again failed to ensure that textbooks are received by schools before the start of the new academic session. This situation has left schools with little option but to circulate old books among students, he said. He added that schools had been relying on used textbooks for several years, with the continued practice raising concerns about the education departments preparedness, particularly when students are expected to begin their studies without delays. The shortage has also placed additional pressure on teachers and school heads, who have to arrange whatever usable books are available to ensure that students are not left without learning material. The situation also places additional pressure on teachers and school heads who have to arrange whatever usable books are available to ensure that students are not left without learning material, a schoolteacher told Greater Kashmir . The delay in textbook distribution comes at a time when the government has been emphasising improvements in the functioning of government schools and efforts to strengthen the quality of education. The commencement of the new academic session has also brought the spotlight back on infrastructural deficiencies in government schools, particularly at the primary and middle-school levels, where inadequate classrooms, heating facilities and basic amenities continue to pose challenges. In several schools, particularly in rural areas, students of multiple classes continue to share a single classroom due to space constraints. The problem becomes more acute during winter due to the absence of proper heating arrangements, the teacher said. Teachers said inadequate infrastructure often forces authorities to announce early winter vacations for younger classes. The academic session has changed, but the challenges faced by schools remain the same. Infrastructure is not up to the mark, and students have not yet received their textbooks, another teacher from North Kashmir said. He said the government needed to treat school education as a priority sector and address the concerns of both students and teachers. Only then can we expect good results from government schools, he said. As reported earlier, JKBOSE has decided to commence the free distribution of textbooks for students from Kindergarten to Class 8 from November 15, 2026. Meanwhile, Minister for Education Shamim Firdous on Thursday said the governments vision was to develop an education system that provided equal opportunities to every child, irrespective of geographical location, social background or economic circumstances. The government remains committed to strengthening the education sector, improving the quality of teaching and learning, upgrading infrastructure and creating an environment where every student could realise his or her potential, she said.

Ensure timely completion of all pending works at sports facilities: Secretary J&K Sports Council

Jammu, Nov 6:J&K Sports Council Secretary Tazayun Mukhtar Friday inspected sports facilities at M.A. Stadium and the Indoor Sports Complex in Jammu, interacting with athletes and parents and directing officials to expedite pending infrastructure works. During her visit to M.A. Stadium, the Secretary, as per a statement issued, inspected the Swimming Pool, Skating Rink, Judo Hall and Table Tennis Hall. She also visited the Indoor Sports Complex, where she inspected the Gymnastics Centre, Fencing Hall and Wushu Hall. During the inspection, the Secretary interacted with athletes undergoing training at various centres and witnessed demonstrations of their sporting skills. She appreciated the dedication, discipline and performance of the athletes and lauded the efforts of the coaches for their commitment towards nurturing sporting talent and promoting excellence in different sports disciplines. The Secretary listened to suggestions and grievances of parents regarding the facilities and training arrangements. She assured them that their genuine concerns would be examined and addressed on priority to ensure a conducive and athlete-friendly sporting environment. Emphasising the need for maintaining and upgrading sports infrastructure, the Secretary directed the Construction Division, Jammu, to ensure timely completion of all pending works at the sports facilities and instructed the concerned officials to expedite the ongoing works without compromising on quality. She further stressed the importance of providing quality training facilities, proper maintenance of sports infrastructure and a supportive environment for athletes to excel at national and international levels. The visit was aimed at reviewing the ground-level functioning of sports facilities, strengthening athlete-centric initiatives and ensuring that the infrastructure being developed by the J&K Sports Council is utilised effectively for the promotion of sports and nurturing of young talent across Jammu and Kashmir.

The Hidden Epidemic

The Kashmir Care Foundation (KCF) and the Gauri Kaul Foundation (GKF) recently convened a conversation that involved physicians and public health experts for an interactive session titled The Quadruple Problem of Our Times: Fatty Liver Disease, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, and Acute & Chronic Kidney Disease. The title sounds clinical. But the problem it describes isnt distant or abstractits at our dinner tables, in our salted noon chai (in Kashmir), in oily foods, in the large portions we eat, in sedentary lifestyles (especially in winter), and increasingly, in our children. These four conditions are usually discussed as separate diseases, treated by separate specialists, in separate hospital wards, and at different times in our lives. But they share the same roots, feed off one another, and, encouragingly, respond to many of the same fixes. Understanding them together, as one interconnected picture, is the first step to actually doing something about them. The session led to the launch of a KCF and GKF Wellness Hour Series (Sehat Nama), where we organise sessions grounded in clinical science and public health and guided by experts. A Regional Crisis, not a Hypothetical One The numbers from Jammu and Kashmir over the past two years should worry every household. Surging Diabetes Rates: The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6, 2023-24) found that 13% of women and 11.3% of men in J&K now have high blood sugar or take medication for it up sharply from 8.7% and 8% in NFHS-5. Urban areas fare even worse, reaching 17% among urban women and 14.6% among urban men. Nearly 40% of all diabetes cases in the region remain completely undiagnosed. The Jammu Spike: The landmark ICMR-INDIAB national study revealed an overall diabetes prevalence in Jammu of 18.9% (climbing to an alarming 26.5% in urban pockets), with an additional 10.8% living with prediabetes. Escalating Hypertension: Regional studies place blood pressure prevalence among men in J&K around 25% and women near 12%, surging to over 41% in some tribal communities. Districts like Rajouri and Anantnag recorded some of the highest blood pressure rates in the country. Silent Liver Damage: While solid local data remains limited, Kashmiri hepatologists report rising rates of Fatty Liver Disease, with ultrasound studies identifying the condition even in schoolchildren. Local clinical estimates run as high as 30% of adults. The Quiet Fourth Partner: Kidney disease rarely announces itself with dramatic symptoms until function is significantly lost. This makes unmanaged diabetes and hypertension particularly dangerous in a region where both are widespread. Why Jammu & Kashmir Is Uniquely Vulnerable These numbers are rising faster here than in many other parts of the country due to specific cultural, lifestyle, and regional factors: Dietary Shifts: Traditional Kashmiri, Dogra, and other North Indian dietsonce built around seasonal vegetables, dried greens, walnuts, and modest portions of meathave shifted toward rich, red-meat-heavy Wazwan preparations (in Kashmir), often consumed daily with plenty of rice and bread. Vegetable, salad and fruit consumption is rather low High Salt Consumption: Salted, buttered noon chai is a major, often overlooked source of daily sodium intake directly linked to the regions high hypertension burden. Winter Inactivity: Long, harsh winters discourage outdoor physical activity for months at a time. Substance Use & Painkillers: Smoking and recreational drug use add strain on the heart, liver, and kidneys. Meanwhile, unsupervised overuse of over-the-counter NSAID painkillers for cold-weather joint pain quietly damages kidney function over years. Genetic Susceptibility: Well-documented genetic predispositions in Kashmiri, Dogra, Gujjar, and Bakerwal populations mean even modest weight gain can lead to metabolic disease faster. One Chain, Four Links The panel stressed that these four conditions are interconnected rather than isolated: Fatty liver disease is now recognized as the hepatic face of the same insulin resistance and obesity that drive diabetes. High blood pressure damages both the hearts arteries and the kidneys filtering units. A patient who develops one of these four conditions faces a significantly elevated risk of developing the other three. Conversely, controlling one condition well helps protect against the rest. Eight Actionable Steps Families Can Take Now 1. Make Exercise a routine: Exercise for 30-45 minutes a day, and challenge yourself to lose 5% of your weight in the next 3 months and 10% in 6 months. Make it a routine. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered the healthy or normal range for most adults. This is the target to reach. 2. Get Screened Without Symptoms: Fasting blood sugar, blood pressure, lipid profiles, routine kidney/liver function tests, and albumin excretion testing are the only ways to catch silent conditions early. 3. Rethink Salt Intake: Cut back on added salt in tea, cooking, and traditional winter preparations (salted, smoked, or pickled foods). 4. Keep Moving in Winter: Adopt indoor walking, stretching, and simple home exercise routines during the snowy months. 5. Reserve Wazwan for Special Occasions: Return to treating heavy feasts as occasional events, prioritizing vegetables, pulses, whole grains, and fish for daily meals. 6. Use Painkillers Cautiously: Avoid frequent, unsupervised use of OTC painkillers for joint and muscle pain to protect kidney health. 7. Address Substance Use Early: Deploy school- and community-level education to combat smoking, alcohol, and drug use before metabolic damage occurs. 8. No to smoking and alcohol: This is non-negotiable and should become a prime driver for safe health and living. A Call for Integrated Public Health Action A single evening session cannot reverse health trends built over decades. However, initiatives by the Kashmir Care Foundation and Gauri Kaul Foundation help bring these four interconnected diseases into public focus. Government hospitals and primary health centres across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions can launch integrated screening camps. Checking blood sugar, blood pressure, liver markers, and kidney function in a single visit will prove vital for high-risk rural and tribal communities. Masjids, Gurdwaras, Temples, and Churches should share public health messages through a physician member of the congregation, so people are regularly made aware of prevention and advocacy messages they can use to improve their health. The data is unambiguous. The response must match it in our clinics, in our schools, in our places of worship, and in our workplaces and homes. Authors: Upendra Kaul, New Delhi, India Abdul Hamid Zargar, Srinagar, India Showkat Ali Zargar, Srinagar, India Subhash Wangnoo, New Delhi, India Vijay Kher, New Delhi, India Altaf Lal, Atlanta, USA

DC Pulwama vsits CSIR-IIIM Bonera field station

Pulwama, Nov 6:Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, on Friday visited the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) Field Station at Bonera to review its research initiatives, technological interventions and efforts towards agricultural diversification and improving farmers livelihoods. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner called for developing the Bonera Field Station into a Centre of Excellence and exploring the potential of positioning Pulwama as an emerging Science City. Dr Shahid Rasool, Principal Scientist and Scientist In-charge of the Field Station, briefed the DC about ongoing research projects, technological innovations and achievements of the institution. He said the stations research activities were aligned with the regions agricultural requirements, particularly challenges arising from depleting natural resources, climate change, extreme weather events and post-harvest losses. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed research initiatives involving medicinal and aromatic plants, saffron, floriculture, apiculture, essential oil extraction and advanced processing technologies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and value addition. He was informed about the institutions efforts to promote scientific beekeeping, improved pollination practices and diversified honey production, including lavender, apple and other monofloral honey varieties, to create additional income opportunities for farmers. The DC also reviewed the stations work in tulip cultivation and indigenous bulb production. Officials informed him that tulip bulb production had increased from approximately 25,000 to nearly 1.5 lakh bulbs, with further expansion underway.

Kashmir sees smart cement revolution as AI takes control of kiln

Srinagar, Nov 6:Kashmirs cement industry is entering a new phase of digital manufacturing, introducing Artificial Intelligence and predictive automation into a production process traditionally dependent on manual monitoring and operator experience. At the centre of this development is the pyro process, the most energy-intensive stage of cement manufacturing, where raw materials are exposed to extremely high temperatures to produce clinker, the intermediate material used in cement production. TCI MAX Cements Srinagar facility has become the first cement manufacturing plant in Jammu and Kashmir to deploy advanced process control (APC) technology. The system is designed to monitor operating conditions, anticipate process fluctuations and automatically adjust key production parameters. The installation of ABB Ability Expert Optimiser brings model predictive control (MPC) and artificial intelligence into the plants operations, enabling continuous analysis of production conditions and adjustments based on predicted changes. Cement manufacturing requires substantial quantities of fuel and electricity, while maintaining precise operating conditions to ensure consistent product quality. Even minor process fluctuations can affect energy consumption, material utilisation and overall efficiency. The newly installed system seeks to address these challenges by maintaining stable operating conditions, improving clinker consistency and optimising the use of fuel, electricity and raw materials. Better control over kiln temperatures, fuel inputs and material flows can also help reduce avoidable resource consumption and emissions. A spokesman of ABB said the Srinagar installation resulted in improvements in productivity, quality and sustainability-related operational metrics following the integration of its technology and supporting information technology infrastructure. Waseem Ahmed Trumboo, Director of Trumboo Industries Pvt Ltd, said the company introduced the system to improve process stability and operational efficiency while maintaining consistent clinker quality. He said the initial performance during commissioning was encouraging, adding that the company expected further benefits as the technology was integrated into its operations. ABB India executives said the deployment reflected growing interest among cement producers in digital solutions that could improve production consistency while addressing sustainability requirements. The project draws on ABBs experience in deploying advanced process control systems across cement manufacturing facilities internationally. Its automation business employs approximately 26,000 people and provides industrial technologies for sectors ranging from energy and water to materials production, manufacturing and maritime operations.

akara, Ibn Arab and Heidegger on Being

With Martin Heidegger, we enter the philosophical landscape of the twentieth century and encounter a different kind of return to first principles. In Being and Time (1927), Heidegger argued that Western philosophy had neglected the fundamental question of the meaning of Being, becoming preoccupied with particular beings while leaving insufficiently examined what it means for anything to be at all. This forgetfulness of Being, as he understood it, could not be overcome merely by identifying a supreme entity or proposing another theory of ultimate substance. Heidegger therefore began his investigation with Dasein, his term for the distinctive being that we ourselves are, whose existence is characterised by an understanding of Being and by the fact that its own Being matters to it. Dasein is not simply the human organism considered as an object; it is human existence as Being-in-the-world, already involved in relationships, practical concerns, possibilities, and the understanding of itself. Central to this inquiry is temporality. Human existence is shaped by the possibilities towards which it projects itself, the past and inherited circumstances into which it has been thrown, and the present world in which it acts and encounters others. Temporality, for Heidegger, is not merely the succession of clock-measured moments but a fundamental structure through which the meaning of Being becomes accessible to philosophical inquiry. His project thus differs significantly from a search for an eternal substance behind changing appearances. Before deciding whether the ultimate ground of existence is Brahman, the Real, or some other absolute principle, Heidegger asks us to reconsider the very meaning of Being itself. This question will prove indispensable to our trialogue: while akara investigates non-duality and Ibn Arab explores divine self-disclosure, Heidegger challenges the assumptions through which the history of metaphysics has framed the relationship between Being, beings, and human existence. The relationship between Being and particular beings acquires distinct philosophical and spiritual meanings in the thought of akara, Ibn Arab and Martin Heidegger. For akara, the ultimate reality is Brahman, the non-dual ground of existence, while the phenomenal world, with its seemingly independent multiplicity, does not possess an ultimate reality of its own. In this sense, Being appears concealed beneath the distinctions through which ordinary consciousness apprehends the world. Yet this concealment must not be understood as the separation of Brahman from the phenomenal universe, for Brahman is also the innermost reality of the self, and liberation consists in realising the non-duality of tman and Brahman. akaras vision thus retains a profound spiritual dimension, in which the apparent plurality of existence is ultimately understood in relation to an absolute reality that exceeds ordinary conceptual distinctions. Heidegger, by contrast, returns to the question of Being without identifying it with God, Brahman or any supreme metaphysical substance. Being is not another being concealed behind the world; it is that elusive dimension of intelligibility in relation to which particular beings can appear and be understood as beings. Although Heideggers inquiry remains grounded in human existence and our being-in-the-world, it cannot be reduced to a straightforward materialism or to the claim that Being is merely an empirical phenomenon. Nevertheless, unlike akara, Heidegger does not resolve the question by identifying Being with a spiritual absolute. Their striking point of convergence lies in their refusal to equate the deepest question of existence with the inventory of things that appear before us; their decisive difference lies in what, if anything, can ultimately be said about the reality towards which this question directs us. Ibn Arab offers a third and distinctive possibility by understanding the relationship between the One and the many through the idea of tajall, or divine self-disclosure. For him, particular beings are not merely a veil that must be discarded in the search for ultimate reality; they are also signs and sites through which the divine names and attributes become manifest. The world, in its bewildering diversity, can therefore remind the contemplative mind of the Real, al-aqq, upon whom all contingent existence depends. Yet no particular being, nor even the totality of created existence, can encompass or exhaust the divine essence. Here the principles of tanzh, Gods absolute incomparability, and tashbh, the divine nearness disclosed through names and attributes, sustain a delicate balance between transcendence and manifestation. Ibn Arabs vision consequently differs both from akaras Advaitic account of non-duality and from Heideggers ontological inquiry. While akara directs us towards the realisation of Brahman as the non-dual ground of the self and the cosmos, Ibn Arab invites us to read the multiplicity of existence as a disclosure of the Real without confusing manifestation with the divine essence. Heidegger, meanwhile, leaves open a fundamentally different question: whether our understanding of Being has been distorted by the very tendency to seek a supreme ground behind everything that exists. The three thinkers thus offer not interchangeable answers but three different ways of approaching the mystery of existence: non-dual realisation, divine self-disclosure, and the persistent questioning of Being itself. Despite their profound differences, akara, Ibn Arab and Martin Heidegger converge upon a remarkable insight: the mystery of Being cannot be approached without turning our attention towards our own existence. The question of reality is, in each case, inseparable from the question of the self through which reality is experienced, understood or disclosed. In the Upaniadic tradition, this inward turn assumes a cosmic significance. The ancient ritual imagination often establishes correspondences between the universe, the sacrificial ritual and the human being, presenting them not as isolated domains but as interrelated dimensions of a larger order. The movement from the outer cosmos to the inner self ultimately acquires its most radical philosophical expression in the inquiry into tman and Brahman. For akara, the self, when understood beyond the limiting identifications of body, mind and individuality, is realised as non-different from Brahman, the ultimate reality. A related inward orientation emerges in the Quranic exhortation to reflect upon the signs of God within the human self and across the horizons of existence. Within the Sufi tradition, this invitation becomes a profound discipline of self-knowledge, purification and spiritual unveiling, finding an elaborate metaphysical expression in Ibn Arabs understanding of the human being as a locus in which the divine names may be reflected. Heidegger, too, makes the being that we ourselves are the point of departure for his inquiry into Being. Through the concept of Dasein, he argues that the question of Being must begin with the being for whom Being is already, in some measure, an issue. The inward turn, however, does not yield the same destination in all three traditions. What appears at first to be a shared path from self-understanding towards an understanding of Being gradually opens into three distinct philosophical landscapes.

J&K Bank inaugurates Premium Branch at Barzulla, e-inaugurates extension counter at PCR Srinagar

Srinagar, Nov 6:J&K Bank today inaugurated its Premium Branch at Barzulla in Srinagar, which will primarily serve high-net-worth individuals, with an emphasis on personalised service and deeper banking relationships. MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee inaugurated the Premium Branch and e-inaugurated an extension counter at the Police Control Room, Srinagar, in the presence of GM & Divisional Head (Kashmir) Arshad Qadri, General Manager (BSD) Khursheed Muzaffar amid a gathering of Banks valuable HNI clients. Zonal Head (Srinagar), Sheikh Mohammad Muzaffar, Cluster Heads Syed Tasaduq Madni, Zahoor Ahmad Qanoongo, Subuhi Yaseen and other senior officers of the Bank were also present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, The opening of our new Premium Branch marks a step in our commitment to delivering exceptional, relationship-driven banking to High Net Worth Individuals, who seek personalized attention, expertise, and hassle-free solutions tailored to meet their unique aspirations and financial requirements. Even as more customers bank digitally, our branches remain important places for personal guidance and support. By creating a space that prioritizes privacy, personalization, and long-term partnership, we reinforce our position as the trusted partner of choice for discerning clients who value both service and meaningful relationships, he added. Highlighting the Banks long-term expansion plans, MD & CEO announced a major scale-up of its retail presence. Going forward, we plan to strengthen our footprint further and open over 60 new branches in different operational geographies by the end of 2027, he said, emphasizing that the physical expansion will run parallel to the Banks ongoing digital transformation to better serve underserved markets. In his Diwali greetings to the public on the occasion, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee highlighted the festival as a time of new beginnings, wishing everyone a season filled with prosperity and well-being. The good news is that the Bank will issue its recruitment notification today, he said. Interacting with the staff led by Branch Head Saima Jan, the MD & CEO urged staff to serve every customer with courtesy, attentiveness and professionalism. He said the success of the Premium Branch would ultimately depend on how its staff conducted themselves in every customer interaction. The team assured him that they would work to make the premium branch a model of best customer service. Notably, the Premium Branch will focus on Forex business, NRI services, gold loans, and safe custody facilities, alongside relationship-led banking. Through this premium branch, the Bank will provide high-net-worth clients with a single point of contact to ensure their financial needs are met more effectively. The extension counter at the Police Control Room, Srinagar, will bring routine banking services closer to police personnel, making it easier for them to attend to everyday banking needs at their workplace.

Keran emerges as frontier tourism destination, gets new heritage centre

Srinagar, Nov 6:Once known primarily for its strategic location along the Line of Control (LoC) and proximity to the India-Pakistan border, Keran in north Kashmirs Kupwara district is gradually emerging as a tourist destination, with a new heritage centre inaugurated at Pharkian on Wednesday. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Kishanganga Valley, the Keran Heritage Centre aims to showcase the regions history, natural beauty and cultural identity while adding a new attraction to the growing tourism infrastructure in the frontier area. The development marks another step towards repositioning Keran, which for decades remained largely associated with border tensions and security-related restrictions, as a destination for visitors interested in exploring the lesser-known landscapes of north Kashmir. The newly established centre features a heritage gallery, a National Flag Site, commemorative installations and a valley-view caf, offering visitors an experience beyond the regions scenic surroundings. The National Flag Site is among the principal attractions of the complex. It features a large Tricolour, a fort-inspired gateway and commemorative walls bearing the inscriptions Sacrifice, Service, Unity and Higher Grounds, Stronger Bonds, A Greater India. An artillery gun display and landscaped pathways have also been developed within the premises, highlighting Kerans frontier identity and the contribution of soldiers serving in the area. A dedicated heritage gallery showcases the history, landscapes and identity of Keran Valley, providing visitors an opportunity to learn about the regions past and the resilience of communities living along the frontier. The complex also houses Keran Caf at Pharkian, designed with floor-to-ceiling glass panels and wooden interiors. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and pine forests. The caf is expected to serve Kashmiri Kahwa, coffee, other hot beverages and refreshments. Located along the Kishanganga River and close to the LoC, Keran has traditionally remained outside Kashmirs mainstream tourism circuit despite its striking natural landscape. Its geographical location and decades of security-related restrictions limited its accessibility and exposure to visitors. However, the gradual opening up of frontier areas and growing interest in offbeat destinations have brought Keran into the tourism spotlight. Its riverfront, mountain scenery, traditional settlements and proximity to other picturesque areas of Kupwara have contributed to its emerging appeal among domestic tourists. The development of tourism infrastructure, improvement in visitor facilities and promotional initiatives have further strengthened efforts to establish Keran as a destination in north Kashmir. The Heritage Centre at Pharkian is expected to add a distinct dimension to these efforts by combining tourism with the regions historical and cultural narrative. The initiative also seeks to highlight the lives and traditions of people residing in frontier villages, drawing attention to their role in preserving the regions identity and strengthening the connection between remote border communities and the rest of the country. With the opening of the centre, Keran is seeking to move beyond its conventional image as a sensitive frontier location and establish itself as a destination where natural beauty, heritage and tourism come together. For Kupwara, the growing tourism profile of Keran could create fresh opportunities for local economic activity, particularly in hospitality, transport and other tourism-related services. The new facility is expected to strengthen Kerans appeal among travellers exploring offbeat destinations in Kashmir while providing greater visibility to the cultural and natural wealth of the frontier district.

Bijbehara Traffic: It needs resolution

Dear DC Sahab, Pardon me for being impudent, but I must say this plainly. It has been over six years since I joined my job in Bijbehara town, and in all these years I have not once seen the towns traffic sorted out. Seasons have changed, Deputy Commissioners have come and gone, but the traffic mess has stayed where it was, eating up hours of everyones day. Bijbehara does not need another temporary fix. It needs a practical solution, and that solution needs the support of everyone who has a stake in this town: the administration, the traffic police, transporters, shopkeepers, street vendors, and the common people who have to pass through, whether they are going from Srinagar to Anantnag or Kulgam, or from Anantnag to Srinagar. At the same time, the solution should not punish the street vendor, the shopkeeper or anyone else who earns a living from the market. The market is what keeps this town alive. A plan that treats it as the problem will neither be fair nor will it last. I am not saying this to blame any officer who performs duty in the town. I am saying it because the jam has become so normal that nobody is surprised by it anymore. It has become a habit for everyone who travels through Bijbehara. Shopkeepers plan their day around it. Parents leave early for school. Drivers switch off their engines and wait. And quite often, somewhere in that line of vehicles, there is an ambulance with its siren on and no way to move ahead. When the new NH-44 was opened a few years back, many of us thought towns like Bijbehara, Awantipora and Pampore would finally get some relief, that there would be less honking and less of the chaos everyone notices. We were told the through traffic would shift to the new road. That did not happen. Vehicles heading to Srinagar from Anantnag and Kulgam still prefer the old highway, and most travellers still use it. They have to, because many people earn their living along that road. A large part of the Jammu-bound traffic also passes through the town, and the many villages around Bijbehara empty onto the same narrow stretch every morning and evening. The new highway went around the town, Sir, but the towns problem stayed. No survey is needed to find where the road chokes. Anyone living here will tell you: Goriwan market, the road to the Sub-District Hospital, and the stretch towards Khanabal, especially during the morning and evening rush. These spots are known to the shopkeeper, the commuter and the traffic constable on duty. Everyone knows them. It would be wrong to say the administration has done nothing. Over the years, Bijbehara has seen many orders. Parking has been banned on both sides of the main road. Heavy vehicles have been stopped during the day. Tourist and passenger vehicles have been told to stay out of the inner lanes. But people here have said again and again, in local newspapers and at shop counters, that these orders stay on paper and rarely show on the road. An order that is not followed up does not ease traffic; it only tells people that orders can be ignored. Still, I do not want the administration to pick up the stick and push orders through. What we need is a dependable solution that lasts and is fair to everyone. Sometimes, Sir, enforcement itself adds to the problem. Commuters have complained that vehicles are stopped for document checks in the busy market right in the middle of rush hour, which brings a slow road to a complete halt. Checking papers is necessary, but it has its time and place, and Goriwan market at nine in the morning is neither. A road divider from Semthan onwards would also help by keeping the two lanes apart. Vehicles often overtake into the opposite lane, the other side gets blocked, and that is where the mess begins. In the Assembly last year, the government said that the major roads in Anantnag district are wide enough for the present traffic, and that wrong parking is the main reason for the jams in Bijbehara. I am willing to accept that. But if the width of the road is not the problem and parking is, then the answer is simple: give people a proper place to park away from the road, and keep the road free for moving vehicles. Banning parking in a town that has almost no parking space does not make the cars disappear. They are only moved a few metres ahead, or they stay where they were, waiting for a challan that may or may not come. Challans are needed, but they are not a long-term solution. The cost of all this is not just lost time. It is the trader whose customers cannot stop at his shop. It is the student who reaches the examination hall late and tense. It is the patient who reaches hospital later than he should. Our district has already seen what a traffic jam can mean in an emergency, when a child on the AnantnagVerinag road lost his life because the vehicle taking him to hospital was stuck in traffic. May Bijbehara never see such a day, but that cannot be left to chance. What Bijbehara needs is neither big nor costly for a district administration. It needs a parking space away from the main road, so that the no-parking order has somewhere to send people; Anantnag town has already moved in this direction. It needs fixed stops for buses and passenger vehicles outside the market, so that passengers are not picked up and dropped in the middle of the road. It needs traffic personnel at the known choke points during peak hours whose only job is to keep vehicles moving. Where the road to the hospital is narrowed by goods and signboards, the answer is not a demolition drive that takes away a vendors daily earning. It is a marked vending area, fixed loading hours for shops, and an arrangement made with the traders themselves, so that the road stays clear because the people who use it have agreed to keep it clear. Most of all, someone needs to keep checking whether last months decisions were actually carried out. Earlier this year, you chaired a meeting on traffic in Anantnag town with officers, traders, transporters and street vendors in the same room. Bijbehara has been waiting for exactly that kind of attention. A standing committee for the town, where the SDM, traffic police, traders, vendors and transporters meet regularly and report what has changed on the ground, would do more than any new order. When the market helps make a plan, it also helps keep it. DC Sahab, the people of Bijbehara are not asking for another order. We have enough of those. We are asking for someone to see the existing ones through and to give the town the basic arrangements that make them work. Six years is a long time to wait in traffic. I hope that, with a little of your time, it will not take another six. With respect and hope, The author works with a bank on rural self-employment.

Bandipora Police arrest 2 more associates in separatist-linked module case

Bandipora, Nov 6:In continuation of the ongoing investigation into a prison-linked terror module of a banned organisation targeting women for separatist ideology and propaganda, busted earlier in the district, Police in Bandipora arrested two more associates in connection with Case FIR No. 168/2026, registered under Sections 10 and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). With their arrest, the total number of arrests in the case has increased to eight. The arrested persons have been identified as Irshad Ahmed Bhat, son of Gh. Mohd Bhat, resident of Chakloo, Baramulla, and Showkat Ahmed Reshi, son of Gh. Mohd Reshi, resident of Watlab, Sopore. Both accused have been taken into custody for their alleged involvement in the case. Further investigation is underway to establish the extent of their involvement and identify other possible links and associates connected with the module. J&K Police reiterated its commitment to dismantling terror networks and taking firm legal action against all those found involved in activities prejudicial to the security and peace of the region.

The Politics of Whataboutery

In her Greater Kashmir opinion piece titled The Politics of Convenient Forgetting (published on November 5, 2026), Adv. Shriya Handoo argued that political actors must confront their past records rather than practicing convenient forgetting. Applying that very standard of strict accountability, however, requires turning the lens inward toward the current administration itself. The mandate that brought the National Conference to power was built on the deep aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who voted for stability, dignity, and a democratic voice after years of administrative vacuum. Yet politics often mistakes posturing for performance, reducing governance to a game of mere perception while real issues fester. Engaging in endless retrospective bickering with the PDP is a lost cause and a convenient distraction; the electorate already delivered its definitive verdict on the PDP, showing them their place at the ballot box. A frank appraisal of the present government reveals a stark chasm between its election manifesto promises and ground reality. Core pledges, such as massive job creation, free electricity, and targeted financial support, remain largely unfulfilled. This policy gap is compounded by pervasive stagnant economic growth and a severe unemployment crisis, with the jobless rate climbing steadily over the last three years and leaving hundreds of thousands of educated youth in deep uncertainty. This economic inertia is further exacerbated by massive fiscal bleeding. The recent High Court ruling striking down water usage charges has dealt a catastrophic blow to the exchequer, depriving the region of revenues from NHPC and independent power projects that run into thousands of crores. Compounding these structural hurdles are critical domestic issues that have remained completely untouched and unaddressed: the spiraling drug menace gripping the youth, crumbling rural healthcare, and deep anxieties over land administration. Instead of relying on political posturing or deflecting accountability onto past political experiments, the ruling party needs urgent internal introspection. At a time when the administration is fractured by internal friction, a brewing crisis of dissent among its own MLAs, and the resignation of its star MP and prominent campaigner Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi over unfulfilled commitments, public energy is being severely misdirected. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered enough; they deserve credible governance, real economic revival, and tangible relief, not selective outrage over yesterdays politics. The author is an entrepreneur managing infrastructure and agricultural ventures in Kashmir. He is also a fellow of the Aspen Global Leadership Network (AGLN)

CUK organises panel discussion on NEP and Higher Education in India

Ganderbal, Nov 6:The Department of Education (DoE), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), organised a panel discussion on Higher Education in India Post-NEP-2020: Challenges and Opportunities at the Tulmulla campus here on Friday. During the programme, noted academicians and educationists deliberated upon the emerging trends, policy interventions, challenges and opportunities in the Indian higher education system in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. In his welcome address, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, Head, Department of Education, highlighted several issues confronting India's contemporary higher education system. He deliberated upon the role of the National Research Foundation, the growing significance of digital learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the implications of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), and the increasing concerns surrounding the mental and emotional well-being of students pursuing higher education. One panellist, Dr L. V. K. Reddy, Registrar, Dr B. R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad, discussed the challenges facing government-run higher education institutions and their relationship with industry. He expressed concerns over the increasing commercialisation and privatisation of higher education institutions, highlighting the need to safeguard the public character, accessibility and quality of higher education in the country. Another panellist, Prof. D. Harichandan, an educationist from Mumbai University, discussed the positive implications of CUET in promoting a common admission framework. He highlighted the growing digitisation of higher education through initiatives such as the SWAYAM platform and underscored the facilitative role of AI-powered tools in enhancing teaching-learning processes, improving academic efficiency and strengthening the overall quality of higher education. Addressing another dimension of the theme, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Patel, an educationist from Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad, emphasised the importance of developing mental and emotional resilience among students in higher education institutions. He identified peer support, mentoring, professional counselling, career guidance, life skills education, digital awareness, inclusiveness and the promotion of self-employment as important strategies for addressing students' psychological and academic concerns and preparing them to meet emerging challenges. The panel discussion was followed by an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students and research scholars of the Department of Education engaged with the panellists. They raised questions and sought clarification on various issues concerning the implementation of NEP-2020, digital transformation, institutional reforms and student well-being. Prof. C. Naseema, Dean, School of Education, proposed the vote of thanks. The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Gawhar Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor, Department of Education, while Assistant Professor Mr Reyaz Ahmad Wani was the rapporteur.

J&K covers 200 Senior Citizens under IPOP in 2024-25, down from 650

New Delhi, Nov 6: A total of 200 beneficiaries were covered under the Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP) in Jammu and Kashmir in 2024-25, compared to 650 in 2023-24. This was revealed on earlier this year by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri B. L. Verma, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is implementing multiple schemes for the welfare of senior citizens, including the Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP), Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) under the umbrella scheme Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana (AVYAY), and the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE). In addition, the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) is implemented under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) by the Ministry of Rural Development. Under IPOP, financial assistance is provided to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) for running and maintaining old age homes and other facilities for indigent senior citizens aged 60 years and above. Under IGNOAPS, financial assistance of Rs 200 per month is provided to persons aged 6079 years and Rs 500 per month to persons aged 80 years and above, subject to eligibility under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) criteria. More than 2.21 crore beneficiaries are covered under the scheme. Under RVY, senior citizens belonging to the BPL category and suffering from age-related disabilities are provided assistive devices to improve their functional independence. The distribution of these devices is expanded based on requirements and the availability of resources. Under NPHCE, geriatric healthcare services are provided at district hospitals and Community Health Centres. During the last five years, the number of districts functional under the programme has increased from 595 in 2020-21 to 722 in 2024-25. Under IGNOAPS, States and Union Territories are encouraged to provide additional financial assistance from their own resources. Based on recommendations of various committees and evaluations, revisions in eligibility criteria and sharing patterns were proposed during the Fifteenth Finance Commission cycle (202126).

Trump and the Grand Ballroom

President Donald Trumps reaction on the day results were declared in the recently held US midterm elections was surreal. As the night of November 3 in the US went on it became clear that the Republican Party had suffered a massive defeat which had led to it losing control of both the chambers of the Congress. Unlike in the aftermath of the 2020 Presidential election when he outrightly rejected the result, this time around he readily accepted it. Ignoring the fact that he had thrown his might in the last stages of the election campaign he implied that he could not be held responsible for the Republican losses. Going further, he asserted that the result would have been different if he was on the ballot. Ironically he did not realise that this was an admission of political failure because a leader has to have coat-tails which his party candidates can use to take them to electoral success. But all this was par for the course for Trump. What was surreal was his action on November 4. That day he took a tour of the Grand Ballroom that he is having constructed in the White House. The media accompanied him even though he claimed that was unintended. Trump extolled the Ballroom for its safety. He said it was designed to be bullet, missile and drone proof and that helicopters could land on its roof. He emphasised that it would be the safest structure in Washington DC and that US presidents had wanted a great Ballroom for 150 years but none had embarked on the project. Ever the real estate guy, the Ballroom has been his dream project. Former President Barack Obama slammed the Ballroom under construction and other changes in the White House during one of his campaign speeches. He said Guys building a ballroom thats bigger than the White House. Its paved over the Rose Garden. Put a helicopter pad on the South Lawn, and theres gold everywhere. Whats up with the gold? Everything More gold. Hes got the White House looking like Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory. Just gold everywhere. On what should have been a day when Trump called in the leaders of the Republican Party to introspect on their great defeat and to chart a way forward he decided to wash his hands of what had occurred so completely that he decided to go to his pet building project. Not only that he revelled when Doug Burman, the US Secretary of the Interior who accompanied him on this tour hailed him as Builder-in-Chief. It cannot be argued that Trumps bizarre act was a good political distancing strategy to ensure that he avoided the shadows of his great Republican defeat to salvage the rest of his political term. There were other ways of doing soby stressing that he would pursue his domestic and foreign policy objectives and that he hoped that the incoming Congress would not impede him from doing so. That would have been the normal way for a President to act in this situation. But Trump has never been a normal leader. On this occasion he went over the political precipice and entered the world of surrealism. There is another way to look at Trumps obsession with the Grand Ballroom. He is a leader who wants to leave his legacy in stone. All through history there have been some leaders who have done so. Theirs has been the pursuit of leaving a mark that would endure far beyond their lifetime. In some cases such rulers have left behind architectural wonders as seen in Egypt when frenetic building activity took place during the Pharaonic period. It can be seen in Italy when magnificent secular and religious structures were put up during the medieval period. It can be seen in India too when Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal which is a priceless Indian treasure. Yes, these rulers and leaders, even if they were driven by their nature to leave their mark on history in stone, had supervised these wonderful structures which are considered part of the heritage of humanity. Certainly, much as he may want, the White House Ballroom will never fall in this category. In the current era when humankind is facing existential crises caused by climate change, what the leaders of the major powers should focus on is not vanity projects but on the collective pursuit of policies which would mitigate these crises. In Trumps case it has been just the opposite. He is a climate skeptic and has taken the US out of the global attempt to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. He emphasises that one of his great accomplishments has been to make the US now the worlds largest holder of oil crude because of his action against Venezuela. The building of a countrys physical infrastructure as part of the development can obviously not fall within the ambit of construction for personal glory. In Indias case successive Indian Prime Ministers have made their contributions in this regard. As the Indian economy has grown so has the desire that India should have world class infrastructure. Along with creating the physical infrastructure of a modern democratic state the leaders who served the Indian people in the immediate aftermath of independence also wanted to create the institutional structures for sustaining democracy and also putting India firmly on the ambitious path of reaching the frontiers of science and technology. There is much work to be done in the area of S&T especially as the world has entered the AI age.

306 medical officers finally sent to peripheral hospitals

Srinagar, Nov 6:Two months after their appointment, the Health and Medical Education Department today posted 306 Medical Officers (Allopathic) against their respective posts. The newly appointed doctors are expected to reprieve the peripheral hospitals of the acute shortage of doctors they are reeling with. According to Government Order No. 762-JK(HME) of 2026, issued today, the department had appointed 335 candidates as Medical Officers on September 2 vide Order No. 663-JK(HME). The appointments had been made following their Character and Antecedent Verification Reports from respective quarters. The appointment order required candidates to physically submit joining reports at the Administrative Department, Civil Secretariat J&K. However, the posting orders were not issued immediately. Of the 306 newly posted Medical Officers, the overwhelming majority, over 80% have been sent to PHCs and NTPHCs in remote, hilly and border areas. Lesser posting have been made in district hospitals or urban centres. Clusters are especially dense in North Kashmir. Baramulla and Kupwara alone account for a large share of the early entries. South Kashmirs peripheral blocks, and the Chenab Valley districts of Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban have also received a significant number of doctors. A handful of slots, short-term deputations have been made to GMCs. While one doctor has been deputed to GMC Baramulla, two more have been sent to GMC Rajouri. After years of chronic shortages in the peripheries, the government has used the bulk of the 335 appointments, 306 of whom joined on time to plug gaps at the primary-care level. The lacunae have been most pressing in the most underserved and logistically difficult locations. These appointments signal a clear policy preference for better coverage of doctors in rural facilities. All other terms of the September 2 appointment order have remain unchanged, while the Drawing and Disbursing Officers have been directed to verify the genuineness and authenticity of all requisite documents. The recruitment follows a requisition in which the department referred 480 Medical Officer posts to the J&K Public Service Commission (JKPSC). On June 2, the JKPSC had issued a select list of 412 allopathic Medical Officers. The department had directed the selectees to proceed to the verification phase. On September 2, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had distributed appointment orders to the newly appointed Medical Officers at SKICC. The government had said the new doctors would be deployed in areas facing shortages of medical officers. The department has faced non-joining by appointees earlier - in 2019, the administration cancelled the appointments of 437 Medical Officers for failing to join duties.

Maldivian President Pushes for Revival of SAARC

The President of the Maldives, Mohammed Muizzu, made another call for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) during his visit to Pakistan on October 21, 2026. Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has also called for the revival of SAARC. The idea has received support from experts and public intellectuals concerned about the welfare of people living in the region. The Government of India responded to these remarks by stating that Pakistan was stymieing the grouping. The Promotion of BIMSTEC as an alternative to SAARC is an exercise in diplomatic shortsightedness. Equally shortsighted is the idea of reviving SAARC without India. Countries in the region have little to lose but much to gain if the SAARC platform is revived. The 19th SAARC Summit was scheduled to be hosted in Islamabad from November 15 to 19, 2016, but was indefinitely postponed amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. On the positive side, however, relations between India and Pakistan have not completely broken down on all fronts. Indias External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, visited Pakistan on October 1516, 2024, to attend the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government and thanked Pakistan for its hospitality. India also participated in the planning session of the SCO Council of National Coordinators in Islamabad from September 28 to 30, 2026.The two countries completed their 35th consecutive exchange of lists of nuclear installations and facilities on January 1, 2026. The hotlines between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) remain active, and the ceasefire is also holding. Furthermore, the statement made by RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale on improving people-to-people contact between India and Pakistan was a welcome development. Many experts consider the RSS as Indias deeper state, influencing relations with Pakistan. Be that as it may, three immediate factors have a bearing on the revival of SAARC. Weighing Three Factors First, the dominant view in India is that containing terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the magic bullet for rescuing bilateral relations and bringing them back to normalcy. Diplomat Ajay Bisaria argues that Indias instincts were primarily economic, and Indias relationship with its neighbours was focused on providing security for the Indian economy to grow and preserving the economic gains already made. This is quite understandable and reasonable for any major economy but is not exclusive to India. This instinct is now fairly widespread across the countries of the region. There is a growing consensus that terrorism poses a threat to the social and economic stability of countries and that SAARC, as a regional forum, can be employed to combat it. According to the think tank PISCES, Pakistan alone witnessed 225 militant attacks in a single year up to September 2026. Therefore, the way forward lies in greater cooperation among states and a deeper process of introspection within societies. Second, the China factor is also influencing the prospects for the growth and revival of SAARC. China enjoys observer status in SAARC, while India has opposed its full membership of the organisation. Indias unilateral military actions have prompted Pakistan to seek even greater strategic proximity to China, particularly through the acquisition of Chinese military equipment and technology. The clashes between India and Pakistan in May laid bare the consequences of this policy. One consequence of such a scenario is that Indias strategic autonomy in the region is constrained, resulting in the ceding of strategic space to China. There are indications that Pakistan is signalling to both the United States and China that it no longer wishes to be a client state. In 2022, Pakistan released its first-ever National Security Policy, which emphasised that the country should resist joining geopolitical camps. The weakening of the pro-India lobby in Pakistan is also a matter of concern. Third, there are sections of opinion in Pakistan that believe India will always prefer to engage with a weak Pakistan rather than the Pakistan that exists today. Former Pakistan High Commissioner to India Abdul Basit recently claimed at a seminar in Pakistan that the countrys international profile had risen and that India would therefore prefer disengagement. Some India watchers in Pakistan also point to unilateralism in Indias domestic and regional politics, along with its alleged disregard for international norms and agreements, as factors contributing to growing mistrust. In light of the above discussion, it is important to examine the perspectives of the scholarly community on the challenges confronting South Asia. Scholars Speak Friend and colleague, Happymon Jacob, who has considerable expertise in Indian foreign policy, argues in his essay, The End of South Asia: A Region in Name Only, published in Foreign Affairs on July 22, 2024, that the dream of South Asia as a cohesive region is over, with significant implications for subcontinental geopolitics that policymakers and analysts have yet to fully grasp. He writes that the reality of Indias centrality has meant that New Delhi does not always recognise the value of building regional structures, as such structures cannot add much to the predominance India already enjoys in the region. Although several Indian Prime Ministers have recognised the merits of SAARC, the Indian bureaucracy and strategic establishment have never been fully convinced of its value. They have long feared that the creation of regional structures could potentially constrain Indias dominance in its neighbourhood. Nepal-based scholar Kanak Mani Dixit, finds Jacobs thesis problematic for more than one reason. He believes that Jacobs pronouncement on the death of South Asia appears to serve the interests of nation-statism, which cannot adequately manage the vast geography and multiplicity of identities that characterise South Asia. Mr Dixit further argues that Jacobs views will please those who wish to exercise centralised authority, ranging from generals in Islamabad to autocratic politicians in Kabul and Colombo, as well as dominant lobbies in New Delhi. True South Asian regionalism has not evolved to a point where the nation-state can function to the satisfaction of the people living in the region. However, we are yet to find an effective institutional mechanism to address inter-state disputes. It would therefore be incorrect to argue that regionalism in South Asia can begin or end with SAARC. The two need to be differentiated. The late Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singhs longing for a day when he could have breakfast in Amritsar, lunch in Lahore and dinner in Kabul remains a compelling vision and is not beyond achievement. The precondition for realising this vision is that peoples power must be unleashed and mobilised in the service of humane regionalism in South Asia. The corporate sector, too, is not averse to such thinking. At one-point, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee nominated R.K. Mishra, a former journalist and a close associate of Dhirubhai Ambani, who headed the Reliance conglomerate. Reliance had an additional stake in India-Pakistan peace, as it had invested in a refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat, close to the Pakistan border. Against this backdrop, it needs to be emphasised that the absence of a regional platform and the growing hesitation among SAARC countries to engage with one another have created a vacuum. This vacuum is increasingly being filled by religious radicalism and internal insecurity across the region. The road ahead remains uncertain. The Road Ahead First, without mutual accommodation between India and Pakistan, the revival of SAARC is inconceivable. Pakistan cannot be dismissed as a strategic entity. All major powers, including the United States, China, Russia and Turkey, engage with Pakistan, even when India chooses to remain disengaged. Foreign policy expert Kanti Bajpai believes that Pakistan is strategically attractive for three reasons: its location, its power and its capacity to disrupt. With approximately half a million personnel in uniform and roughly 200 nuclear warheads, Pakistan remains Indias strategic competitor. It reportedly possesses more nuclear warheads than India. By 2050, Pakistan is projected to become the worlds third-most populous country, after China and India. There is no way to peace but peace is the way. Second, by keeping SAARC in limbo, India risks pushing even Bangladesh towards a more adversarial regional posture. To borrow the expression of Sajeeb Wazed, son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh risks becoming another Pakistan on Indias eastern front. Indias former Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, recently observed that there could be a convergence of interests among China, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Bangladeshs Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, has called for a Bangladesh First policy to guide his government. He has not visited India despite an invitation from the Indian Prime Minister. Bangladesh is also reportedly reviewing around 101 bilateral agreements with India. Finally, we, the people of Junoobi Asia (South Asia), need to think about the future generations who will inhabit this part of the world. India, as a major regional power, can offer ideas and solutions to the challenges confronting the region. Genuine regional leadership demands the capacity to generate ideas, build consensus and deliver tangible solutions. By adopting such an approach, India can enhance its regional influence and strengthen its position as a responsible regional power. During recent India-Pakistan Track II meetings, the dangers posed by climate change got focussed attention. Climate change can severely degrade critical sectors, including water and electricity, transportation networks and supply chains. South Asia can draw lessons from the legally binding ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response which is founded on cooperation and mutual trust. A similar framework could serve South Asia well, provided that the sovereignty of individual SAARC members is respected. The revival of SAARC is the way forward. The author is a Kashmir-based political scientist.

Yawar Mir urges MEA to repatriate Sopore students body from Bangladesh

Srinagar, Nov 6:Apni Party Youth Wing President Yawar Mir has urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to intervene urgently to facilitate the repatriation of the mortal remains of Adnan Altaf, a Kashmiri MBBS student from Sopore, whose body was recovered from a water body in Bangladesh after he was reported missing. Adnan, a resident of Sopore in north Kashmir, was pursuing his MBBS degree at Eastern Medical College in Cumilla, Bangladesh. His mysterious death has plunged his family, hometown and the wider community into deep grief and shock. Expressing concern over the tragic incident, Yawar Mir appealed to the MEA to take up the matter with the Bangladeshi authorities and ensure that the students mortal remains are brought back home without any further delay. He also urged the Ministry to engage with the concerned Bangladeshi authorities to ensure a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation into the circumstances surrounding Adnans death, so that the facts emerge and his family gets answers. Mir stressed the need for swift diplomatic intervention to ensure the dignified return of the deceased student and a proper investigation into the tragic incident.

Restoration of statehood main agenda of J&K Congress: Tariq Hameed Karra

Akhnoor, Nov 6:JKPCC Chief Tariq Hameed Karra has asserted that Congress would continue its fight to ensure free, fair elections and secure the basic right to vote of every citizen to safeguard democracy in the country. Addressing Congress gathering at Akhnoor on Friday organised by newly appointed Chairman of JKPCC Scheduled Caste Department Ashok Bhagat, Karra said that the efforts of LOP Rahul Gandhi have proved beyond doubt the various modes of Vote Chori by the Modi government through CEC Gyanesh Kumar and more than 13 crore people have been deprived of their right to votes, so far. Modi government indulged in large scale vote chori and manipulations in elections from past several years, which has been exposed now. Right to vote is the most precious right with everyone in democracy but that is being snatched by BJP, which shall not be allowed any more by Congress and like-minded forces in the country. The recent rally in Delhi against Vote Chori has established the mood of the people in the country and asked the party workers to continue to expose BJP's chori of the rights of common people. He said that restoration of statehood is the main agenda of J&K Congress as BJP has snatched statehood status along with other significant rights to people of J&K. The people are suffering for want of statehood. Congratulating Ashok Bhagat for remarkable fight in Assembly electionshe said he has been elevated in the party to represent the voice of downtrodden and oppressed community in view of his knowledge of academia and administrative officer. Karra recalled the services for veteran leader and four times MLA from Akhnoor Pt Dharampal Sharma who recently expired and that of Madan Lal Sharma, stating that Akhnoor- Chhamb has remained bastion of Congress and party bonds would be revived here. Working President Raman Bhalla in his address raised the issue of railway connectivity project to Rajouri- Poonch via Akhnoor, Sunderbani, which is pending clearance for more than 13 years and questioned BJP's stand and failure to take it up the important project thus ignoring the vast area and border belt. He said that Ashok Bhagat is an intelligent and hardworking leader attached to grass root levels and praised the PCC President and Congress high command for selection of right. Person for right place. He Said people are sandwiched between two power centers in the absence of statehood and Congress wouldn't rest till statehood is achieved. Former Minister Mula Ram criticised BJP for depriving poor and downtrodden people of their rights and giving unprecedented price hike, unemployment and vote chori in its rule. The poor people and youth are suffering a lot under this regime. He appreciated the qualities of leadership of Ashok Bhagat and thanked PCC President for his appointment as SC Department head. District President Jammu Rural Neeraj kundan also felicitated Ashok Bhagat and expressed gratitude to PCC Leadership for his selection who is down to earth and popular amongst people. Earlier Incharge Assembly Kuldeep Sharma and other local leaders thanked PCC President and welcomed him on the occasion. Prominent those who attended included Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma, Ex MP T S Bajwa, Former Legislators Th Balbir Singh, Ved Mahajan, Th Hari Singh Chib, Former Minister Yash Pal Kundal, Krishan Bhagat Ex -MLA, Vijay Sharma ,Ch Hussain Ali Wafa,,Ajay Lakhotra, Ashok Sharma, Sanjeev Panda, Bharat Priye, Mangal Bral, Kuldeep Sharma Incharge Assembly, Baldev Bhagat, Latish Sharma, Vijyant Pathania, K P Singh, Amit Sayal, Ram Paul Sharma and others.

NIT Srinagar faculty deliver invited talks on semiconductor, neuromorphic technologies at EU-India conference

Srinagar, Nov 6: Research initiatives in semiconductor and emerging digital technologies being pursued at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar were highlighted through invited talks at the EU-India Digital Cooperation Conference 2026, held at South Asian University, New Delhi, on November 2 and 3. A statement of NIT issued here said that Sheikh Aamir Ahsan and ArshidNisar, faculty members of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at NIT Srinagar, delivered the invited talks, presenting their ongoing research in two emerging areas: Power Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology for electric vehicles and AI data centres, and neuromorphic computing using spintronic devices. The talks were delivered under the framework of INPACE, a Horizon Europe-funded project aimed at strengthening cooperation between the European Union and Indo-Pacific countries in semiconductor and digital technologies. Ahsan presented his research on Power GaN technology and compact modelling for applications in electric vehicles and AI data centres, highlighting ongoing research at NIT Srinagar aimed at advancing next-generation power electronics and semiconductor applications. Nisar spoke on neuromorphic computing using spintronic devices, an emerging approach inspired by the functioning of the human brain, with potential applications in developing energy-efficient computing systems. His research is being undertaken with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, under the DST INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship. The conference brought together experts, researchers and policymakers from India and the European Union to deliberate on cooperation in semiconductor development and digital technologies. Padma Shri Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Institute Professor at IIT Madras, attended the conference as the chief guest. The programme featured invited talks, panel discussions and an interactive working session involving experts from participating countries.

KPDCL announces power shutdown in city areas

Srinagar, Nov 6:Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL has informed that the Shutdown of 132 kV IRCON Budgam Transmission line will be observed due to which power supply to Traction Substation Budgam (Railway) will be affected from 09 am to 03 pm on 07 November 2026. Similarly, shutdown of 33 kV Habbak-Zakura Burzhama line and 33 kV Habbak-Hazratbal line will be observed due to which power supply to Zakura, Batpora, Gulabagh, Burzhama, Chatterhama, Tailbal, Danihama, Khimber, Shuperbagh, Animal Husbandry, Hazratbal, Umar Colony, Rangpora, BARC, Habbak, KU, Nigeen, Kanitar, NIT, Shrine and adjoining areas will be affected from 09 am to 03 pm on 22 November 2026.

Department of Posts extends working hours of Dal Lakes Floating Post Office

Srinagar, Nov 6:The Department of Posts has extended the working hours of the iconic Floating Post Office at Nehru Park on Dal Lake, Srinagar, which will now remain operational from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The initiative follows the encouraging public response to the recent extension of working hours at Lal Chowk Head Post Office, which is also functioning from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Chief Postmaster General, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, Col. Sagar Hanuman Singh, IPoS, visited the Floating Post Office along with Prateek, Director Postal Services, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, and Sh. Adam Mohi U Din, Senior Superintendent of Post Offices, Srinagar Postal Division. During the visit, the officers reviewed the facilities and interacted with customers, tourists and members of the public to understand their requirements. Considering the considerable footfall at Nehru Park and the demand for postal services beyond regular office hours, the decision was taken to extend the working hours of the facility. Speaking on the occasion, Col. Sagar Hanuman Singh said that the decision aims to provide greater convenience to customers, tourists and the local population. He reiterated the Department of Posts commitment to making postal services more accessible, customer-friendly and responsive to public needs. Prateek said that the initiative reflects the Departments continued efforts to improve service delivery and provide greater flexibility in accessing postal facilities. He observed that the Floating Post Office is not only an important postal facility but also a distinctive attraction for tourists visiting Kashmir. The extended hours will enable local residents, tourists, houseboat operators and other visitors to access postal services at more convenient times. Adam Mohi U Din said that the encouraging response to the extension of working hours at Lal Chowk Head Post Office had reinforced the need to improve public access to postal services. He informed that the Department is also exploring the possibility of extending the working hours of more post offices in the region in the coming days.

Open garbage dump on Noorbagh-Palpora road sparks health concerns

Srinagar, Nov 6:An open garbage dumping site on the Noorbagh-Palpora road has become a major source of inconvenience for residents and commuters. Locals allege that heaps of uncollected waste is attracting stray dogs and posing serious risks to pedestrians and motorists. The garbage, dumped openly along the roadside without any covered collection facility, remains scattered for long hours before being lifted, emanating a pungent smell. They alleged that the waste often remains on the road throughout the day and even into the afternoons, leaving the entire stretch covered in an unbearable stench. Instead of a proper waste collection point, there is just an open heap of garbage. It gives a very bad impression of the locality and makes it difficult for people to even walk on the road, said Farooq Ahmad, a local resident. According to residents, the dumping site has become a feeding ground for packs of stray dogs that gather around the waste throughout the day. They said the dogs frequently chase two-wheelers, e-rickshaws and cyclists, creating panic among commuters and increasing the chances of accidents. I ride my motorcycle on this road every day. The dogs suddenly run behind vehicles after feeding on the garbage. It is dangerous, especially during the morning and evening hours, said Firdous Ahmad, a commuter. Locals said there is a playground in the vicinity of the dumping site, but children are often discouraged from using it because of the large number of stray dogs roaming around the garbage. Our children cannot play freely. Parents remain worried because the dogs often move towards the playground. The authorities should remove this dumping site immediately, said another resident. Residents also pointed out that smaller heaps of garbage have appeared at one or two other locations along the Noorbagh-Palpora stretch, worsening the sanitation situation and affecting the overall appearance of the neighbourhood. Morning walkers said they either avoid the stretch or carry sticks for protection against stray dogs. We go for morning walks for better health, but instead we have to deal with foul smell and aggressive dogs. Many elderly people and women avoid this road together, said a regular walker. Students, particularly those walking alone to schools or tuition centres, also face difficulties because of the stray dog menace, residents said. The locals appealed to Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to ensure timely lifting of garbage, remove the open dumping site and identify a more suitable and scientific waste disposal arrangement. They said immediate intervention is necessary to restore cleanliness, improve public safety and preserve the appearance of the locality.

Surging power demand escalates load shedding in Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 6:With temperatures beginning to drop and winter approaching, Kashmir is witnessing mounting pressure on its electricity supply system as rising demand coincides with declining hydropower generation, increasing dependence on power imports and complaints of prolonged unscheduled outages. The emerging power situation has once again exposed the Valley's vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations in hydropower generation, with residents questioning why electricity supply remains erratic despite the announcement of a revised load curtailment schedule by the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL). A senior KPDCL official told Greater Kashmir that Kashmir's peak electricity demand during this period is around 1500 megawatts (MW), with consumption expected to rise further as winter advances and households increasingly depend on electrical appliances for heating and other domestic requirements. The pressure is being compounded by a seasonal decline in water levels in rivers, which directly affects electricity generation from hydropower projects across Jammu and Kashmir. Official power-sector data accessed by Greater Kashmir shows that the combined electricity load of Jammu and Kashmir stood at 2318 MW on November 3, with Kashmir accounting for 1426 MW and Jammu 893 MW. Against this requirement, power imports were recorded at approximately 1,950 MW, underscoring the Union Territory's substantial dependence on electricity procured from outside to maintain supply. The generation summary recorded state-sector output at 373 MW and central-sector generation at 226 MW. State-sector generation includes electricity produced by J&K-owned projects across both divisions, while central-sector generation includes output from major NHPC-operated projects. Baglihar-I was among the major contributors to state-sector generation, with an output of 298 MW at the time of the recorded data. Other contributions came from hydropower projects across Jammu and Kashmir and independent power producers. The central-sector portfolio includes major projects such as Uri-I, Uri-II, Salal, Dulhasti, Kishanganga and Sewa-II. The figures highlight the continuing mismatch between the Union Territory's electricity requirements and its ability to meet them through locally generated power, particularly during the winter season when hydropower production becomes increasingly dependent on reduced river discharge. A senior official said generation from J&K-owned hydropower projects had been fluctuating between 250 MW and 300 MW during the past week. During the past week, the average power generation from the local generation projects was fluctuating from 250-280 or 270-300 MW, the official said. The official attributed the lower generation primarily to declining water levels in rivers, which reduce the availability of water required to operate hydropower stations at higher capacities. Jammu and Kashmir has an installed hydropower capacity of approximately 3540 MW spread across 31 operational projects. Of this, around 1197 MW is in the state sector, 2250 MW in the central sector and 92.75 MW is operated by independent power producers. However, installed capacity does not translate into electricity availability throughout the year. Hydropower generation fluctuates with seasonal water availability, making the Union Territory particularly vulnerable during winter when river discharge declines even as electricity consumption increases. Consequently, power procurement from the central pool and other external sources assumes greater importance in bridging the demand-supply gap. In a move aimed at strengthening winter availability, the Ministry of Power is allocating an additional 330 MW from the central pool to Jammu and Kashmir from December 1, 2026, to February 2027. A senior official said the additional allocation would help offset the seasonal decline in hydropower generation and improve electricity availability during the months of peak consumption. However, the additional power is unlikely to completely eliminate supply constraints, particularly during morning and evening peak hours when domestic consumption rises sharply and the distribution network comes under increased pressure. While the government has announced a revised power curtailment plan, consumers across Kashmir continue to report outages that, they allege, frequently exceed the prescribed timings. KPDCL introduced the revised Load Curtailment Plan (LCP) across Kashmir from October 17, linking the duration of scheduled power cuts to the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses recorded on individual feeders. Under the revised arrangement, feeders with AT&C losses exceeding 65 per cent have been assigned eight hours of daily curtailment. Areas falling in the 40.5 to 65 percent category are scheduled to face six hours of outages, while feeders with losses between 15 and 40.5 percent have been assigned three hours of daily cuts. Consumers in areas where feeder losses range between zero and 15 percent are scheduled to face only 30 minutes of daily curtailment. The revised plan also seeks to incentivise better electricity consumption and revenue performance by expanding round-the-clock supply to more areas. As many as 85 additional feeders have been included in the 24-hour electricity supply category, taking the total number of such feeders across Kashmir to 214. The feeder-wise schedule covers Srinagar city and other districts of the Valley, with specific timings notified for different receiving stations and distribution areas. In Srinagar, metered, cabled and designated round-the-clock feeders have been assigned between 30 minutes and three hours of scheduled curtailment. Several non-cabled and non-metered feeders, particularly in rural areas, have been allocated six to eight hours of daily power cuts. Essential feeders supplying hospitals, medical institutions and water supply installations have been provided with separate arrangements, while certain industrial feeders have been exempted from scheduled curtailment. Despite these provisions, the gap between the published schedule and actual electricity availability has become a major source of public dissatisfaction. Residents in several parts of Kashmir complain that power cuts are being imposed beyond the notified hours, with interruptions occurring even during periods when supply is supposed to remain available. In Srinagar and Ganderbal, residents have recently reported eight to ten hours of daily outages in areas including Lar, Wayil, Kangan and Gund. Consumers say prolonged interruptions are affecting normal household activities, disrupting businesses and creating difficulties for students preparing for examinations. The situation is particularly challenging for households dependent on electricity for heating and other essential requirements as temperatures continue to fall. KPDCL officials, meanwhile, have attributed additional load shedding and grid curtailments to the widening gap between demand and available supply, besides operational constraints arising from the need to prevent overloading at key receiving stations during peak consumption hours. The complaints have nevertheless brought the implementation of the revised curtailment plan under scrutiny, with consumers seeking greater transparency over the reasons for outages beyond the notified schedule. The recurring winter power deficit also highlights a longstanding structural challenge facing Jammu and Kashmir: the limited exploitation of its considerable hydropower resources. According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, Jammu and Kashmir has an identified hydropower potential of 14,867 MW. However, only 3540.15 MW, representing 23.81 percent of the identified potential, has been harnessed so far.

CBSE Class 10, 12 Board Exams To Begin On Feb 16, 2027

The Class 10 exams will conclude on March 9, while those for Class 12 will end on April 9.

Go beyond Dhan Lakshmi

As workplace celebrations approach, the focus often remains on Dhana Lakshmi and neglects Ashtalakshmi's broader teachings. The eight forms of Lakshmi encompass various aspects of wealth, including spiritual and inner wealth. Courage, leadership, and knowledge contribute to a fulfilling work environment beyond monetary measures. True wealth is recognized in a team's collaboration and support for one another. Embracing all eight forms fosters holistic prosperity in the workplace.

Poverty low, expectations high: Indias next challenge is creating jobs and driving reforms

Poverty rates in India have decreased remarkably, with expectations rising for future economic prosperity and growth. Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer and Swachh Bharat Mission have significantly improved living conditions. Furthermore, infrastructure improvements have connected rural areas to markets and opportunities. While the government has driven welfare improvements, job creation remains the role of entrepreneurs. A national consensus on reforms is necessary to substantially increase per-capita income in India.

Diwali Patakha from China: The world's fireworks capital is reinventing its centuries-old industry

Liuyang in China's Hunan province is a significant hub for global fireworks production. The county supplies around 60% of the domestic fireworks market and 70% of exports. This industry has evolved to incorporate advanced technology, like digital ignition and AI. Although safety measures have improved since past catastrophic incidents, risks still exist. Liuyang's fireworks significantly influence celebrations and cultural festivals worldwide.

J&K Bank announces 1,356 vacancies for POs, Banking Associates

Srinagar, Nov 6: Jammu and Kashmir Bank on Friday announced a major recruitment drive for 1,356 posts of Probationary Officers and Banking Associates, opening fresh employment opportunities for educated youth across Jammu and Kashmir. According to two detailed notifications issued by the Bank's Corporate Headquarters in Srinagar, the recruitment includes 323 posts of Probationary Officers (POs) and 1,033 posts of Banking Associates. The online application process will commence on November 7 and continue until November 26, 2026, while examinations will be conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS). The Bank has restricted eligibility to domiciles of Jammu and Kashmir, making possession of a valid domicile certificate mandatory for selected candidates. In a significant condition, selected candidates will be required to serve for a minimum of five years within the zone initially allotted to them. No transfer outside the allotted zone will be permitted before completion of the prescribed period. Candidates applying for either post must possess a graduation degree in any discipline from a recognised university or an equivalent qualification recognised by the competent authority. The age limit has been fixed between 20 and 30 years as on January 1, 2026, with relaxation available to reserved-category candidates under the applicable rules. For Banking Associate posts, candidates who have successfully completed apprenticeship training with J&K Bank will receive an additional one-year age relaxation and extra marks equivalent to 2.5 per cent of the maximum marks in the online examination. The selection process for Probationary Officers will comprise three stages preliminary examination, mains examination and interview. Candidates numbering ten times the vacancies in each category will be shortlisted for the mains examination, while three times the vacancies will subsequently be called for interviews based on their performance in the mains examination. Recruitment for Banking Associates will be conducted through an online examination administered by IBPS. The notifications state that reservation will be implemented in accordance with the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Rules, 2005, as amended from time to time, including the provisions notified under S.O. 176 of March 15, 2024. The recruitment provides reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, residents of backward areas, Economically Weaker Sections and other eligible categories. Horizontal reservation has also been provided for persons with benchmark disabilities, while the Banking Associate notification includes provisions for ex-servicemen. The Bank has made verification of educational qualifications, age, domicile and category certificates mandatory before appointment. Applicants will also be required to submit a self-declaration regarding their character and antecedents. The Bank has reserved the right to cancel candidature or appointment in cases involving material misrepresentation or specified criminal convictions. Eligible candidates can apply through the Careers section of the Bank's official website, jkb.bank.in. The dates for examinations, issuance of admit cards and declaration of results will be announced separately. Pertinently, the recruitment notifications were issued hours after the Bank's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, in an exclusive interaction with KNS earlier in the day, confirmed that the much-awaited recruitment notification would be released on Friday. (KNS)

Mirwaiz says he remains under house arrest, barred from delivering Friday sermon

Srinagar, Nov 6: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday said he continued to remain under house arrest for nearly a week, alleging that police deployment and barricades outside his Nigeen residence had prevented him from visiting the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar to deliver the Friday sermon. In a post on X, Mirwaiz expressed disappointment over the continued restrictions, saying he would not be able to address the faithful at the mosque. My house detention continues unabated for the past week with police deployment and barricades in place. Unfortunate that I will not be able to deliver the Friday sermon at Jama Masjid Srinagar to the faithful today. Arbitrary and authoritarian measures to curtail freedom of movement and speech only betray the official narrative of normalcy in Kashmir, he said. He said the restrictions had prevented him from attending scheduled religious gatherings and leading the Friday congregation at Jamia Masjid.

Routh: Kashmirs Forgotten Cake of Blessings is Making a Quiet Comeback

NHAI issues guidelines to standardise design, infrastructure for multi-lane free flow tolling

New Delhi, Nov 6: Paving way for wider adoption of barrier-less Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system across the country, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued guidelines to standardise design and infrastructure of toll plazas on four-lane and above National Highways. The guidelines will ensure that upcoming and ongoing National Highway projects are equipped to support MLFF based barrier-free toll collection without requiring vehicles to stop at toll booths. The initiative is aimed at eliminating traffic queues and waiting time, reducing fuel consumption at toll plazas, while making National Highway journeys safer and more seamless. The guidelines prescribe uniform requirements for toll plaza layouts, lane configuration, gantries, road infrastructure, lighting, signage and supporting facilities. It also lays down an implementation framework for upcoming and ongoing National Highway projects. Standardized design for different National Highway configurations The policy circular lays down standardised guidelines for the layout and infrastructure of Barrier-Less Toll Plazas across different configurations of National Highways. These guidelines broadly prescribe the plaza layout, number of tolling lanes, provision and placement of gantries, and associated road safety features, signage and lighting arrangements to ensure uniformity in the design and facilitate seamless implementation of barrier-less tolling across the country. With vehicles being tolled without the need to stop at physical barriers, the number of lanes required at a toll plaza has been rationalised in comparison to conventional toll plazas, facilitating more efficient utilisation of available space and improving traffic movement through the tolling zone. Implementation on National Highway projects The guidelines will apply to all future and under construction projects. Projects at the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage will incorporate the new design in their documents, while projects already awarded or under construction will adopt the changes through applicable contractual provisions. NHAI field offices have been directed to incorporate the prescribed requirements in upcoming projects and facilitate their adoption in ongoing projects. Emphasis on safety and user convenience The policy circular emphasize the provision of adequate lighting, advance information and guidance to highway users through appropriate signage and Electronic Variable Message Signs (VMS) at toll plazas. These measures are aimed at enhancing visibility, keeping road users informed about the tolling zone and ensuring safe and smooth movement of vehicles. The guidelines also provide for construction of an administrative building-cum-operations and maintenance centre operational and maintenance infrastructure for efficient management of toll plaza operations. Earlier, NHAI released comprehensive guidelines for planning and designing of High-Speed Access controlled National Highways, other than Expressways. The guidelines aimed to bring uniformity in standards for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of upcoming high-speed National Highway corridors to bring greater consistency in technical standards and strengthen road safety. The introduction of standardized infrastructure and design framework for MLFF toll plazas mark an important step towards creating a uniform framework for barrier-less tolling, providing seamless travel experience to National Highway users and enhancing overall efficiency of toll operations across the country.

ACB registers FIR against revenue officials, others for wrongful occupation of state land in Jammu

Jammu, Nov 6: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered an FIR against the then Naib Tehsildar, Patwari and certain private persons for their alleged involvement in facilitating the wrongful occupation of state land at Village Gurha Brahmana, Jammu. Officials said the FIR has been registered on the basis of the outcome of Verification No. 02/2024, conducted into a complaint lodged by Sohan Singh. They said the verification prima facie revealed that the accused public servants had allegedly abused and misused their official positions and failed to discharge their official duties in accordance with law, thereby facilitating wrongful gain to private persons and causing consequential wrongful loss to the complainant as well as the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The complainant had alleged that he had purchased 01 Kanal of land falling under Khasra No. 65-min through a registered sale deed dated 17.01.2005, followed by attestation of Mutation No. 2229 dated 18.02.2005. However, during verification, it was revealed that the land actually delivered to and occupied by the complainant falls under Khasra No. 96, which is recorded as State land. The verification further revealed that the then Patwari Babu Ram and the then Naib Tehsildar Ram Lal Sharma, allegedly in connivance with private persons Chaman Lal and Ram Chand, facilitated the preparation and issuance of revenue documents on the basis of an unauthenticated Dasti Khaka, without properly verifying the authentic revenue records and the actual position of the land at the spot. It was further revealed that the private persons, through their respective attorney holders, namely Ram Pal and Kasturi Lal, allegedly executed the sale deed and delivered possession of land falling under Khasra No. 96 instead of the land covered under Khasra No. 65-min. Officials said the report submitted by the Tehsildar, Jammu North, dated 10.07.2026, further confirmed that the complainant was not in possession of land falling under Khasra No. 65-min but was occupying land under Khasra No. 96, which stands recorded as State land. Accordingly, a case has been registered under Section 5(1)(d) read with Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006, and Sections 120-B, 420, 467, 468 and 471 RPC. Further investigation in the case is underway, officials added.

Karmabhoomi Express catches fire in Punjab, 4 coaches affected; 1,500 passengers escape unhurt

Patiala, Nov 6: More than 1,500 passengers had a narrow escape after a fire broke out in the Karmabhoomi Express near Sarai Banjara railway station in Punjab's Patiala district on Friday, engulfing three coaches and partially damaging a fourth, officials said. The train, travelling from Amritsar to West Bengal's New Jalpaiguri, was immediately brought to a halt after the fire was detected, and the affected coaches were detached from the rest of the train to prevent the blaze from spreading. No casualty or injury was reported. According to officials, the fire broke out on the Rajpura-Sirhind railway section when the train was passing near Sarai Banjara railway station. Eyewitnesses and local residents who rushed to the spot said thick smoke could be seen billowing into the sky as the coaches caught fire. The passengers rushed out of the affected coaches and managed to escape safely. Senior railway officials, who reached the spot, said the fire initially broke out in one coach but spread to other coaches due to strong winds. Initially, it was one coach, but as wind was blowing at speed (and as fire spread), a total of four coaches were affected, Ambala Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Vinod Kumar Bhatia told reporters. Three general coaches were primarily affected by the fire, while a fourth coach suffered minor damage, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Ambala Division of Northern Railways Yashanjit Singh said. The train was unreserved, Singh said, adding that alternate arrangements had been made to ensure passengers reached their destination safely by another train. Asked about the cause of the fire, Singh said, It is a matter of inquiry. Bhatia said both overhead equipment (OHE) lines were shut down after the fire was detected. The guard and loco pilot separated the affected coaches from the rest of the train to prevent the blaze from spreading. The guard also informed the control room, following which trains operating on other lines were regulated, he said. The cause of the fire will be investigated, officials said.

ANTF Ladakh seizes heroin-like substance at Leh airport, one held

Leh, Nov 6: Director General of Police, Ladakh, on Friday said that the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Ladakh detected drugs being sent via unsuspecting air passengers and seized a heroin-like substance at Leh Airport. In a post on X, DGP Ladakh said 3.5 grams of heroin-like substance was seized from Mohd Hussain, resident of Diskit, at Leh Airport. He said FIR No. 19/2026 under NDPS Act has been registered in this regard. DGP Ladakh also appealed to the public not to carry strangers parcels.

30,000 chinar trees geo-tagged across J-K, digital database created

Jammu, Nov 6: The Jammu and Kashmir government has geo-tagged around 30,000 chinar trees and created a digital database to strengthen their conservation and monitoring, officials said. Top officials said this at a high-level meeting, chaired by Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment, Altaf Ahmad Wani, held to review the functioning of the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Research Institute (JKFRI). The officials said that while QR-enabled metal plates have been installed on 10,000 prominent chinar trees in Kashmir and 3,500 peepal and bargad trees in the Jammu region. The geo-tagging of the remaining chinar, bargad and peepal trees will be completed in the second phase, the officials said. Emphasising the importance of scientific research in forest conservation, the minister said science was the backbone of conservation efforts and research should not remain confined to files and laboratories but reach forests, farmers and the common people. He directed the JKFRI to strengthen coordination with the Forest Department, farmers and industry to ensure that research outcomes translate into income generation for local people and improved protection of forests. The minister was informed that JKFRI has established two seed banks, one each in Jammu and Srinagar, for proper storage of seeds of forest tree species collected from Seed Production Areas. The institute has also developed cultivation protocols for important medicinal plants, including Kuth, Tilpushpi, Mushkwala, Pushkarmul, Angur Shefa and Shinglimingli. Besides, medicinal plants have been inventoried and mapped in both Jammu and Kashmir regions, with their germplasm raised in JKFRI nurseries. Emphasising participatory development, the minister said the concerned MLA must be taken on board while executing development works in a district. Public representatives understand ground realities more deeply, and their involvement would ensure transparency and better execution of works, he added.

CMO Ramban orders prescription audit across government health institutions

Banihal, Nov 06: Taking cognizance of concerns raised through All India Radio Srinagars current affairs programme Shaharbeen over the alleged prescription of expensive branded medicines by doctors in government hospitals, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Ramban has ordered the constitution of dedicated Prescription Audit Committees in all health institutions across the Ramban district. In a circular issued on November 6, the incharge CMO Ramban Dr Opinder Singh directed Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Ramban, and all Block Medical Officers (BMOs) to constitute committees to examine the allegations and conduct a comprehensive and impartial audit of OPD and IPD prescriptions issued by doctors. The circular notes that despite the availability of free medicines and generic alternatives in government hospitals, allegations have surfaced regarding certain doctors prescribing expensive branded medicines from outside pharmacies, thereby imposing an unnecessary financial burden on poor patients. CMO Ramban orders prescription audit across government health institutions. They will also seek feedback from patients and attendants to ascertain whether they were advised or compelled to purchase medicines or undergo diagnostic tests from particular private shops. The CMO has further directed the Medical Superintendent and all BMOs to submit comprehensive institution-wise audit reports, along with verified documentary evidence, stock position and recommendations for necessary action, within seven days. The circular has also been forwarded to the Director Health Services Jammu and Deputy Commissioner Ramban for information. The directive marks a significant administrative response to the concerns highlighted by Shaharbeen, bringing the issue of prescribing practices and the financial burden on patients in government healthcare institutions under official scrutiny.

Kalhanas Rajatarangini manuscript enters UNESCO Memory of the World register

Srinagar, Nov 06: Manuscripts of Kalhanas 12th-century historical chronicle Rajatarangini have been inscribed on UNESCOs Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, bringing international recognition to one of Kashmirs most significant historical works. The manuscripts of the epic Mahabharata and Kautilyas Arthashastra, a treatise on governance and statecraft, have also been included in the register. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Cultures Press Information Bureau on Thursday, which shared photographs of the UNESCO certificates on X. The decision was taken at the 11th session of the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register held in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) said. The IGNCA played an important role in preparing the nomination dossiers for all three works, an official said. With the latest additions, India's total number of inscriptions in the regional register has risen to six. Written by Kalhana in the 12th century, Rajatarangini is a historical chronicle of Kashmir that documents the region's rulers, political developments and society. The Mahabharata is one of India's two major Sanskrit epics, while the Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya, deals with governance, administration, economics and statecraft.

High Court rejects plea by two IAS officers in arms licence scam PIL, seeks report on prosecution sanction

Srinagar, Nov 06: The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has rejected an application by two IAS officers seeking intervention in the long-pending Arms Licences Scam PIL and a direction to the Centre to consider their representations before deciding on a proposal for grant of prosecution sanction against them. A Division Bench of Chief Justice Dr Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajnesh Oswal observed that there was no justification for issuing such a direction, noting that the officers' plea appeared to suggest that the authorities would not apply their minds properly without the court's intervention. The application was filed by Pandurang Kondbaroa Pole, a 2004-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer currently posted as Secretary, Land and Building, Government of NCT of Delhi, and Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, a 2009-batch AGMUT cadre officer presently posted as Secretary, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. The officers had sought impleadment in PIL No. 9/2012, titled Sheikh Mohd. Shafi and Another versus Union of India and Others. They had also sought a direction to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to consider their representations before taking a decision on the CBI's proposal for grant of prosecution sanction. Appearing for the officers, Senior Advocate Sakal Bhushan, assisted by Advocate Rahul Sharma, argued that the doctrine of deemed sanction could not be applied mechanically and that the matter required a case-specific assessment by the competent authorities and the court. He submitted that the officers were only seeking consideration of their representations before a decision was taken on the prosecution sanction proposal. The Bench, however, declined to grant the relief sought. The reason why this Court has not accepted the application is that merely the gist of the submission made by learned Senior counsel was that unless the Court directs there will not be proper application of mind by the respondents, which does not seem to find any favour of the Court, the Bench observed. Bhushan subsequently sought permission to withdraw the application and pursue the representations before the DoPT. The court accordingly dismissed the application as withdrawn, observing that the officers did not require its permission to pursue appropriate remedies available under law. During the hearing, Advocate S.S. Ahmed, appearing for the PIL petitioners, informed the court that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had submitted an updated status report in compliance with its July 6, 2026 order. According to Ahmed, the MHA had stated that, following detailed examination and consultations with the investigating agency and the Jammu and Kashmir Government, it had finalised its views and comments on the proposal and forwarded its considered opinion to the DoPT for a final decision under the prescribed procedure. Ahmed sought a direction to the DoPT to place its final decision before the court. Taking note of the submission, the Division Bench directed Deputy Solicitor General of India Vishal Sharma, appearing for the Union Government, to submit a comprehensive report detailing compliance with the court's orders passed from time to time. The PIL has been listed for further hearing on December 23, 2026. (KNT)

Some decisions maybe taken within 24 or 48 hours: NC MLA Bashir Veeri says after concluding meeting with Farooq Abdullah and CM Omar Abdullah

Majeed Larmi reaffirms loyalty to NC: I would die, but never leave party; says everything is sorted out

No breakaway group in NC, leadership assured resolution of grievances: Nazir Gurezi

No breakaway group in NC, leadership assures resolution of grievances: Nazir Gurezi

Srinagar, Nov 06: National Conference legislator Nazir Ahmad Gurezi on Friday rejected speculation about the emergence of a breakaway group within the ruling party, saying legislators who had recently met among themselves had only sought to raise their concerns before the party leadership. Speaking to reporters after meeting National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah along with other party legislators at the Gupkar residence, Gurezi said the leadership had assured them that their grievances would be addressed, with some matters to be resolved immediately and others in a phased manner. We are legislators of the National Conference. Whenever we have issues, we take them to our party leadership. A few days ago, we sat together at one place, but social media portrayed it as if a separate party had emerged from the National Conference. There was no such group, Gurezi said. He said the legislators had placed their concerns directly before Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah during the meeting. There were certain issues which we brought before the honourable Chief Minister and Farooq Sahib. They have assured us that whether these are political issues or other matters, some will be addressed immediately while others will be resolved gradually, he said. The remarks come amid speculation over differences within the National Conference following the recent cabinet expansion, which had triggered discontent among a section of party legislators. The legislators had earlier held consultations among themselves, prompting speculation about the emergence of a separate faction within the party. Gurezi, however, maintained that the meetings were intended to discuss concerns and seek their resolution through the party's established leadership rather than challenge its authority. He said the latest interaction had provided an opportunity for the legislators to present their grievances directly to the leadership and receive assurances on their resolution. The meeting assumes significance against the backdrop of recent political developments within the National Conference, with the leadership seeking to address concerns raised by its legislators. Gurezi's statement indicated that the legislators would continue to pursue their demands within the party, while awaiting action on the assurances given by Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. (KNS)

Dr Farooq Abdullah dismisses reports of NC split, says legislators' grievances genuine

Srinagar, Nov 06: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday dismissed reports of a possible split in the party as baseless, saying the concerns raised by around 16 legislators were genuine and would be addressed by the leadership. Speaking to reporters, after meeting the legislators, Dr Abdullah said the party leadership had listened to their grievances and would take steps to resolve them. We have spoken to them. Their problems were genuine and they were heard properly. We will take some steps quickly and some steps slowly, he said. He said the party would work towards strengthening both the organisation and the government to ensure that people's problems were addressed. Dismissing speculation about a possible rebellion within the ruling party, Abdullah said the National Conference remained united and could not be divided. The news that a split is taking place in the National Conference is completely baseless. This community is organised, and those who think they can break it should remember that it has never been broken and never will be, he said. The meeting comes amid reports of discontent among a section of NC legislators over the functioning of the party and the government. Around 16 MLAs had sought an interaction with the party leadership, triggering speculation about internal differences within the ruling party. Dr Farooq Abdullah also reiterated the party's commitment to seeking restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and Article 370. Our fight for the restoration of statehood will continue. Our fight for Article 370 and Article 35A will also continue, and, God willing, we will take the matter to the Supreme Court, he said. The National Conference had made restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's special status and statehood key promises in its 2024 Assembly election manifesto. The Supreme Court had upheld the Centre's August 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370 in December 2023, while directing that Assembly elections be held in Jammu and Kashmir and statehood be restored at the earliest. The NC-led government, headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, assumed office in October 2024 after the party emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections. (KNS)

Handwara Police apprehend five drug suspects, recover contraband

Handwara, Nov 06: In a major crackdown on drug trafficking and substance abuse, Handwara Police apprehended five drug suspects in three separate operations conducted by Police Station Kralgund and Police Post Chogul, recovering charas and cannabis-like contraband substances from their possession, police officials said on Friday. Handwara Police intensifies crackdown on drug trafficking; five suspects apprehended, contraband recovered in three NDPS operations, the officials said. In a press statement, a police spokesperson said that during naka checking at Khanu Babagund, Police Station Kralgund apprehended two persons identified as Abid Hussain Mir of Tarathpora and Rouf Mushtaq Bhat of Khanu. Charas-like substance and charas powder-like substance were recovered from their possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 78/2026 under Sections 8/20-29 of the NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Kralgund. In another operation at Wanigam Crossing, one person identified as Danish Parvaiz Parra of Budra Bala was apprehended, and a cannabis (Khashkhash)-like substance was recovered from his possession, the spokesperson said. Accordingly, FIR No. 79/2026 under Section 8/15 of the NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Kralgund. Meanwhile, during naka checking at Watyen, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Post Chogul, a motorcycle bearing registration number PB08CQ-8150, travelling from Sopore towards Kupwara, was intercepted. Two persons, identified as Mohd. Jahangir Sadeeqi and Mohd. Haseemu Din, both residents of Bihar, were apprehended, and a charas-like substance was recovered during checking. Accordingly, FIR No. 275/2026 under Sections 8/20-29 of the NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Handwara, the spokesperson added. Handwara Police reiterated its firm commitment to eradicating the drug menace and appeals to the general public to extend cooperation and share information about drug-related activities to safeguard society, particularly the youth.

Dissident NC MLAs arrive at CMs residence to meet Farooq Abdullah, CM Omar

Crucial meeting between CM, dissident legislators set to begin

Srinagar, Nov 06: The meeting between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and legislators unhappy over the recent cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion is set to begin shortly at the Gupkar residence of National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah. Sources said that the MLAs have arrived at the venue in the morning. The meeting is being held in a bid to pacify the legislators and prevent further widening of differences within the party. As already reported, the NC top brass had this morning asked the aggrieved legislators to keep independent MLAs out of the delegation meeting the Chief Minister and the party president. The aggrieved legislators are understood to have the support of three independent MLAs, who have been backing them over the reshuffle issue. Muzaffar Khan, MLA Thanamandi, is not attending the meeting, sources said. The legislators are upset over being ignored in the recent reshuffle-cum-expansion and have sought redressal of their grievances from the party leadership. The outcome of the meeting is likely to decide the future course of the dissenting camp within the National Conference(KNO)

Delhi inches towards 'severe' AQI two days ahead of Diwali

New Delhi, Nov 06: A thick layer of smog hung over the national capital on Friday as the air quality deteriorated sharply and edged closer to the 'severe' category, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) settling at 391. Of the 59 monitoring stations across the city, 30 recorded severe air quality at 9 am, while the remaining stations were in the very poor category. Rohini recorded the worst AQI at 475, followed by IIT Delhi at 472. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, Delhi is likely to record its first severe air quality day of the season on Friday, with the situation expected to persist until November 8, the day of Diwali. The forecast comes amid the ongoing peak stubble-burning period in the National Capital Region, while firecracker emissions due to Diwali could further add to the pollution load. The AQI was in the 'very poor' category Friday morning and rose from 389 at 8 am to 391 at 9 am, indicating a further deterioration in air quality. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between zero and 50 is classified as 'good', 51 and 100 as 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 as 'moderate', 201 and 300 as 'poor', 301 and 400 as 'very poor', and 401 and 500 as 'severe'. Weather experts said several pollution hotspots in the city could record AQI levels above 450, particularly in view of Diwali festivities and stubble-burning. The minimum temperature at the Safdarjung weather station, Delhi's base observatory, settled at 17.2 degrees Celsius, 1.9 notches above the season's normal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a maximum temperature of around 30 degrees Celsius for the day, with shallow fog likely during the morning hours. Shallow fog is expected to persist in the capital until November 9.

CIK raids six locations across Kashmir in terror recruitment case

Srinagar, Nov 06: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) wing of Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday searches at six locations across Kashmir in connection with a terror recruitment case, officials said. An official said that CIK teams carried out searches at residential houses in Budgam, Srinagar, Bijbehara and Mattan, Anantnag areas of south Kashmir, besides a village in Pulwama district. He said the searches were conducted in coordination with local police and revenue officials in the presence of executive magistrates. The case, registered under FIR No. 07/2023 at Police Station CIK Srinagar, pertains to an alleged terror recruitment module that was operating through social media platforms to radicalise and recruit youth into proscribed terrorist organisations, the official said. He said the investigation was initiated following inputs that individuals based in Pakistan, allegedly in connivance with handlers of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and other banned outfits, were using social media platforms to lure Kashmiri youth and instigate them against the sovereignty and integrity of the country. Further details regarding any recoveries or detentions are awaited.(KNO)

Trump says he met with Putin envoy Kirill Dmitriev at the White House

Washington, Nov 06: President Donald Trump said he met with Vladimir Putin's envoy at the White House on Thursday but did not meet with Ukrainian officials who were also visiting. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said he had a meeting with Kirill Dmitriev. I can't tell you what I discussed, Trump said. Asked if he had met with Ukrainian representatives, Trump said he had not. Representatives from both countries were at the White House for an event honoring Melania Trump's work brokering a ceasefire in Oleshky. After declining to elaborate on his meeting with Dmitriev, Trump suggested some sort of deal is in the works. Its going to be an agreement, it's going to be a big agreement and it's going to involve more than Ukraine, Trump said, adding that it might include all of Europe. Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy appeared with Melania Trump at the White House on Thursday as she brought together Russian and Ukrainian officials to mark the localized ceasefire she brokered between their nations in a besieged Ukrainian village. Speaking at her invitation, Kirill Dmitriev thanked the first lady for her distinguished humanitarian role in securing the six-day truce. Dmitriev added that Putin personally gave instructions as part of the operation and sent his thanks to Melania Trump. Officials from Ukraine also participated in the event recognizing the ceasefire, which was signed Oct. 23. It was unclear whether President Donald Trump, who did not attend the event, met with Dmitriev or any of the Ukrainian officials. The White House did not respond to a request for information on whether such meetings were planned. The head of the parliamentary faction of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's party, Davyd Arakhamia, and Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, Dmytro Lubinets, also spoke at the event. Arakhamia told the first lady she did an amazing job and encouraged her to keep helping the Ukrainian people, who have endured more than four years of war after Putin sent his troops across the border and invaded the country in 2022. Definitely we would like to ask you to keep going and to find new missions and to de-escalate more as much as possible, Arakhamia said. The first lady has worked with both countries since last year to reunite families separated by the war. So far, she has helped nearly three dozen children return to their relatives. She said Thursday that she hoped the Oleshky ceasefire could become more enduring and more widespread. Let Oleshky be the modest spark that grows into a lasting flame of peace, she said. Peace between Russia and Ukraine so far has eluded President Trump, who alternately has pressed Russia and Ukraine to end the war since he returned to office nearly two years ago. Zelenskyy, in a speech in Spain on Friday, said the operation in Oleshky proved something very simple. When Putin wants the fighting to stop, it stops. And there was real silence, no attacks some days, and we saved hundreds of lives. First lady tackles foreign policy challenge The ceasefire is the latest example of how Melania Trump has become more involved in foreign affairs than some of her recent predecessors, who typically travel abroad to spread US goodwill and avoid involvement with warring countries. In 2022, months after Russia invaded Ukraine, first lady Jill Biden traveled to western Ukraine to visit with Zelenskyy's wife in a town far away from the front lines. Under tight security, first lady Laura Bush made several visits to war-torn Afghanistan. In an announcement that came as a surprise, the White House said on Oct. 23 that the first lady had brokered the ceasefire to help with the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid and to allow civilians to evacuate from a place she described as being on the brink of disaster. Ukrainian, Russian and US negotiators earlier that day had reached an agreement to deliver relief to Oleshky in the war-divided region of Kherson in southern Ukraine. The local ceasefire was in effect from Oct. 27 to Nov. 1 and amounted to the most significant truce since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. An estimated 2,000 people remained in Oleshky when the temporary truce took hold. They were offered the choice of evacuating to territory controlled by Ukraine or Russia, or remaining in the city with replenished food and medical supplies. Supplies were delivered during the six-day window while hundreds of Oleshky residents crossed into Ukrainian-held territory in a major evacuation operation. Melania Trump said Thursday that nearly 800 people had evacuated Oleshky, and she described how she initiated talks with officials in both countries after learning about the situation at an event she held on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly session in September. She said she and her top adviser, Marc Beckman, worked directly with Russian and Ukrainian leadership to define the terms of the ceasefire. Situation in Oleshky was dire Food and medical supplies had been scarce for months in Oleshky, once a city of about 24,000 residents that sits on the Dnipro River separating Ukrainian forces from the city's Russian occupiers. There is no electricity, heat or running water. Oleshky was captured by Moscow's forces on the first day of Russia's full-scale invasion. Its buildings were shelled and burned, and its infrastructure damaged. In June 2023, floodwaters inundated the city after the Kakhovka Dam collapsed from an explosion that an Associated Press investigation found was likely caused by the Russian military. Hundreds of residents were killed. Those left in the city along Ukraine's southeastern front face death from hunger or disease as another harsh winter looms. Ukraine has appealed repeatedly for a local ceasefire to organize evacuations. Russia, as the occupying power, is obligated by international law to ensure civilians under its control have what they need to survive. The first lady presented Putin and Zelenskyy's representatives with large white envelopes and asked them to deliver her personal letter to each leader. Dmitriev presented her with a painting from an 11-year-old girl while Zelenskyy sent her a Ukrainian award recognizing her role in the ceasefire.

Deeply honoured to be your next Mayor: Indian-born Nithya Raman scripts history in Los Angeles

New York, Nov 06: Indian-born democratic socialist Nithya Raman has been elected Mayor of Los Angeles, scripting history as she becomes the first South Asian mayor of the nations second-largest city. Raman, 45, who was a Los Angeles City Council member, defeated incumbent 73-year-old Karen Bass in the November 3 mid-term elections. With this victory, Americas two largest cities - New York and Los Angeles - are now run by Indian-descent mayors who are Democratic Socialists. Los Angeles, I am deeply honoured to be your next Mayor. Thank you to the thousands of people who knocked on doors, sent texts, made phone calls, convinced their neighbours to believe in the promise of this big, beautiful, joyful city that we get to call home, Raman said in a video posted on X Thursday. Raman paid tribute to her predecessor Bass, the first woman mayor of Los Angeles, for her decades-long public service. I am going to City Hall to work every single day to earn your trust and to earn your trust in this city again. And that work starts now, so that we can build housing that people can afford, parks for our children to play in, a transit system that can get people where they need to go, a city that is safe for its working people and its families, and a city government that is actually capable of delivering on its promises, Raman said. LA City Councilmember for District 4, Kerala-born Raman is an urban planner by training, and she received her bachelors degree from Harvard and a graduate degree from MIT. Raman is among the several Indian-American candidates who have emerged victorious across the country in the US midterm elections that concluded Tuesday and delivered a significant rebuke to President Donald Trump and the Republicans as the Democrats gained control of the House and Senate, flipping seats and traditional party strongholds in a massive blue wave across America. Indian American Impact, an organisation that empowers South Asian and Indian-American communities through community engagement, civic partnerships, and candidate support, congratulated Raman on her victory in the general election for Mayor of Los Angeles. Noting that Raman will become the first South Asian American mayor of the nations second-largest city, the Indian American Impact said her victory reflects the growing political power of South Asian Americans in California, a state with more than one million South Asian residents, the largest such population in the country. Executive Director of Indian American Impact Chintan Patel said in a statement that Raman ran on lowering rents, building housing faster, and making city services work for Angelenos, and voters chose her to deliver it. With her win, South Asian Americans will lead the two largest cities in the United States, Patel said, referring to New York and its Mayor Mamdani. The 5.5 million-strong Indian-American community registered significant political gains in the midterms, with several candidates from the community winning historic elections to various positions across the country. Pia Dandiya of Florida and Dr Amish Shah of Arizona will be the newest Indian-American members of the US Congress, with their victories speaking to the growing political power of our communities. They will join Representative Ami Bera, Representative Pramila Jayapal, Representative Ro Khanna and Representative Suhas Subramanyam at Capitol Hill. At a time of rising hate against our communities, representation matters, and they will fight to keep our communities safe, Indian American Impact said. All six are committed to lowering costs for working families, expanding access to health care, and protecting immigrants, and they will serve as a powerful check on the Trump administration in the next Congress, the organisation said. Among the other notable election victories are that of Manoj Chourasia, who has been reelected to the New Hampshire State House, Darshana Patel who won her reelection to the California State Assembly, Ranjeev Puri whose won reelection to the Michigan House of Representatives. With Democrats retaking the chamber, Puri is expected to become Michigans next Speaker of the House, which would make him the first Indian American Speaker of a state House in the country. Dr Krish Subrahmanian won his election for the Minnesota State Senate; Aruna Miller has been reelected as Lieutenant Governor of Maryland; Lisa Kaul won her election for the New York State Senate, defeating a Republican incumbent and flipping a seat in New York; and Nabeela Syed won her election for Illinois State Senate District 26. Amar Mukunda won his election to the Maryland State Senate; Saba Haider has been elected to the Illinois State House; Josh Kaul has been re-elected as Wisconsin's Attorney General; Pooja Sethi won her election to the Texas House, District 47, becoming the first Indian American to serve in the Texas legislature; and Jyot Singh has been elected to the Georgia State House, District 97, the first Indian American and first Sikh American elected to the Georgia State Legislature.

Ranjeev Puri elected as first Indian-American Speaker of Michigan House

Washington, Nov 06: Democrat Ranjeev Puri has been elected as the Speaker of the Michigan House, the first Indian-American to hold the coveted post. Today, Im humbled to be elected by my colleagues as Speaker of the Michigan House, Puri said in a Facebook post on Thursday. Puri, 42, was elected as Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives on Thursday. Puri said he looked forward to working with Senate Majority Leader-Elect Darrin Camilleri and Governor-Elect Jocelyn Benson to deliver on the promises made in the run-up to the election. Thank you to my colleagues for your trust. Excited to get to work, he said. Puri became the first Sikh American elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2020. Born to Punjabi immigrants, Puri was appointed as the leader of the Democratic Party in the Republican-controlled 110-member House of Representatives in 2025. When my parents immigrated to this country, they couldnt have imagined their son would one day make history, break barriers and lead the Michigan House. That is the promise of America, Puri said. Puri has worked on former president Barack Obamas campaigns in 2008 and 2012. He later earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and returned to Michigan, where he worked in the automotive industry. In his third term as a member of the state House, Puri was appointed as the leader of the democratic party in the House in 2025. Congratulations to Ranjeev Puri on his reelection and on being elected Speaker-Elect by his colleagues. Ranjeev has made lowering costs central to his work, from health care to housing, Chintan Patel, Executive Director, Indian American Impact, said. Patel said at a time of rising hate targeting South Asians, Puri will also fight to protect communities and all Michiganders, and to stop the Trump and 'MAGA' agenda. With Ranjeev leading the caucus, we have no doubt they will lower costs and make life more affordable for Michigan families. Impact was an early supporter of Ranjeev, and we are proud to call him a friend. We look forward to working with him to deliver for Michigan, Patel said.

Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah's resignation accepted, seat vacant

New Delhi, Nov 06: The resignation of former National Conference leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi as a Lok Sabha member from Srinagar has been accepted by Speaker Om Birla with effect from November 3, according to an official notification issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat. The notification, dated November 5 and issued under reference S.O. 6067(E), stated that Ruhullah, an elected member from the Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency of Jammu and Kashmir, had resigned from his Lok Sabha seat and that his resignation had been accepted by the Speaker with effect from November 3. With the acceptance of his resignation, the Srinagar parliamentary seat has fallen vacant. Ruhullah had announced his decision to quit both the National Conference and Parliament on November 3 while addressing a gathering at Behisht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam on the 26th death anniversary of his father, late Aga Syed Mehdi. He had accused the National Conference leadership of abandoning its electoral commitments, particularly its promise to fight for the restoration of Article 370 and the protection of Jammu and Kashmir's rights. The differences between Ruhullah and the party leadership had been building over several months, with disagreements also emerging over the reservation policy and the party's political approach following the 2019 abrogation of Article 370. Ruhullah, who was elected to the 18th Lok Sabha in the 2024 general elections from Srinagar on the National Conference ticket, had earlier represented Budgam in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and served as a minister in the erstwhile state government. (KNS)

Democrats vow to end Iran war as US midterm defeat hits Trump; oil prices fall

New Delhi, Nov 5:The Democrats have vowed to make ending the Iran war a priority after their sweeping victory in the US midterm elections, dealing a major political setback to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party, reports BBC. Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer said ending the conflict would be a priority, adding that cutting off funding to the Department of Defence could be considered if it was the only way to secure a swift end to the war. Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic leader in the House of Representatives and likely to become the next Speaker, said his party would hold the Trump administration accountable and act as a check on what he described as an out-of-control executive branch. We dont work for Donald Trump. We dont work for JD Vance. We dont work for the Supreme Court. We work for the American people, he said, according to the BBC. Jeffries also accused what he called the Trump Cartel of massive corruption, promising to hold those responsible accountable. The election outcome has also triggered a sharp fall in global oil prices, with crude touching its lowest level in two months amid expectations of renewed diplomatic engagement between the US and Iran. However, analysts feel that expectations might be premature, given the difficulties in negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Iran, he said, would seek a top price for fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz and allowing commercial shipping to move freely. The conflict had effectively closed the strategic waterway, through which around 20 per cent of the worlds oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes, triggering a surge in global energy prices. Trump acknowledged that the Iran war was largely responsible for his partys electoral defeat, while Vice-President JD Vance also said the conflict had contributed to the Republican setback. Russia, meanwhile, said the Democratic victory would not alter Washingtons foreign policy towards Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow would continue pursuing its interests either militarily or through negotiations. China has called for a constructive, strategically stable China-US relationship ahead of a planned meeting between Trump and President Xi Jinping this month. Beijing is expected to push for a trade agreement, with questions also emerging over whether Taiwan could figure in the negotiations. The Democratic victory has also raised questions about divisions within the party, particularly over Israel policy, which could complicate its efforts to shape the administrations foreign and domestic agenda.

DRDO successfully tests quasi-ballistic missile Pralay

New Delhi, Nov 5:The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday successfully flight-tested the indigenously developed quasi-ballistic missile Pralay from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The test was conducted at around 11.10 am as part of user evaluation trials, with all objectives successfully met, as confirmed by data from range instruments deployed by the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. Developed by DRDOs Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, along with other laboratories, the missile has been produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited. With the successful test, its induction into the armed forces has become imminent. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces and industry partners, saying the missiles advanced technologies would further strengthen the militarys technological capabilities and operational preparedness against emerging threats.

Indias Metro network expands from 248 km in 2014 to nearly 1,200 km: PM

New Delhi, Nov 5:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted the expansion of Indias Metro network from 248 km across five cities in 2014 to nearly 1,200 km across 26 cities today. In a post on X, Modi said over one crore people travel by Metro every day, adding that the expansion had reduced commuting time, increased productivity and given people more time with their families. He said if the Metro network had continued expanding at the pre-2014 pace, cities like Pune might have waited decades for the service, which was unacceptable. The Prime Minister said the expansion reflected the transformation the government was working towards for urban India.

UIDAI onboards 300 entities to expand Aadhaar offline verification network

Srinagar, Nov 5:The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has onboarded 300 Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs) since the rollout of the initiative in January, marking a significant step towards expanding Aadhaar-based offline verification across various sectors. According to a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Thursday, the newly onboarded entities represent sectors including hotels and hospitality, healthcare, education, events, the gig economy and consumer-facing services. The initiative aims to facilitate secure, consent-based and paperless verification, offering greater convenience to both service providers and residents while minimising the need to share personal information. UIDAI said the growing network of OVSEs reflected increasing confidence in privacy-focused digital verification mechanisms that prioritise user control and data minimisation, in alignment with the provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act. The expansion of the offline verification ecosystem comes alongside the growing adoption of the Aadhaar App, which has recorded nearly 7.5 crore downloads so far. The app has facilitated more than 86 lakh mobile number updates, 22.16 lakh address updates and 40.25 lakh email updates, enabling residents to update their details through their smartphones without physically visiting an Aadhaar centre. It has also recorded 4.6 crore biometric lock and unlock transactions, indicating growing adoption of digital security features that allow Aadhaar number holders to exercise greater control over the use of their biometrics. Additionally, 3.61 lakh Aadhaar lock and unlock transactions have been recorded through the app. UIDAI said these features provide users with an additional layer of privacy and security by allowing them to manage access to their Aadhaar and biometric authentication facilities. The authority said the app was evolving as an important digital interface between UIDAI and residents, providing convenient access to a range of Aadhaar-related services through smartphones.

Shaher-e-Khaas Traders Alliance welcomes J&K Banks RAHAT OTS scheme

Srinagar, Nov 5: The Shaher-e-Khaas Traders Alliance, led by its President Nazir Ahmad Shah, has welcomed Jammu & Kashmir Banks Special One-Time Settlement Scheme, RAHAT (SOTS-2026), describing it as a positive initiative that could provide much-needed relief to traders and other borrowers facing financial difficulties. In a statement, Nazir Ahmad Shah said the scheme had come at an important time when several traders were struggling with financial liabilities due to challenging business conditions, declining market activity and other economic difficulties. He said the initiative would provide eligible borrowers an opportunity to settle their outstanding loan accounts under the prescribed terms and conditions, helping them overcome financial stress and focus on reviving their businesses. The Alliance appreciated J&K Banks efforts to introduce a structured settlement mechanism for distressed borrowers, saying such measures could help address the issue of stressed accounts while giving genuine borrowers an opportunity to make a fresh beginning. Shah said the trading community, particularly businesses operating in Shaher-e-Khaas, had faced various economic challenges over the years. He expressed hope that the scheme would benefit eligible traders and help restore their financial stability. He also urged J&K Bank to ensure that the scheme was implemented in a transparent, simplified and borrower-friendly manner. Bank branches and concerned officials, he said, should provide proper guidance to applicants and explain the applicable settlement terms so that eligible borrowers could make informed decisions. The Alliance appealed to eligible traders to approach their respective J&K Bank branches, obtain details of the scheme and complete the required formalities within the stipulated period. Nazir Ahmad Shah expressed appreciation to the Banks management for introducing the initiative and said constructive engagement between financial institutions and the trading community was essential for strengthening business activity and supporting economic recovery in Jammu and Kashmir. The Shaher-e-Khaas Traders Alliance reiterated its commitment to raising issues concerning the business community and working with relevant institutions to promote the welfare and growth of traders.

J&K Banks RAHAT scheme a timely relief for distressed businesses: JKHARA

Srinagar, Nov 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (JKHARA) has welcomed Jammu & Kashmir Banks Special One-Time Settlement Scheme, RAHAT (SOTS-2026), describing it as a significant and timely initiative that could provide relief to financially distressed borrowers and help businesses overcome longstanding credit-related difficulties. In a statement, JKHARA President Babar Chowdhary said the introduction of the scheme reflected a positive approach towards addressing the financial difficulties faced by borrowers, particularly business establishments that have been struggling to service their loan obligations amid challenging economic conditions. He said the hospitality sector, like several other business segments in Jammu and Kashmir, had experienced periods of considerable uncertainty and financial stress. Many hotel and restaurant operators had to deal with mounting operational costs, fluctuating business activity and difficulties in maintaining regular repayment schedules. In such circumstances, a structured and transparent one-time settlement mechanism could provide an opportunity to resolve stressed accounts and restore financial stability. Chowdhary said RAHAT could help eligible borrowers settle their outstanding liabilities under clearly defined terms and conditions, enabling them to move forward without the continuing burden of unresolved non-performing loan accounts. He particularly appreciated J&K Bank for introducing a scheme with uniform and non-discretionary eligibility criteria and settlement terms. He said transparency and consistency in the implementation of the scheme would be important in ensuring that eligible borrowers receive the benefit intended by the Bank. The introduction of RAHAT is a welcome step by J&K Bank. A large number of business establishments have faced difficult circumstances over the years, and many borrowers are looking for a practical opportunity to settle their outstanding liabilities. Such an initiative can help them address their financial obligations and make a fresh beginning, he said. The JKHARA president said the scheme was relevant for the hospitality industry, where financial difficulties faced by individual establishments could have wider implications for employment, investment and tourism-related economic activity. He observed that hotels and restaurants support a broad network of economic activities, including transport, food supplies, handicrafts, local products and other services. Financially stressed hospitality units, therefore, affect not only their owners but also employees, suppliers, service providers and other stakeholders dependent on the sector. Chowdhary said facilitating the settlement of eligible stressed accounts could help business owners regain financial confidence and focus on improving operations, maintaining employment and making future investments.

J&K Bank launches RAHAT Special OTS scheme for stressed borrowers with NPAs up to Rs 5 Crore

Srinagar Nov 5: Jammu and Kashmir Bank has launched a Special One-Time Settlement Scheme, RAHAT (SOTS-2026), offering eligible borrowers with stressed loan accounts an opportunity to settle their outstanding liabilities through a pre-approved, uniform and non-discretionary framework. The scheme, effective November 5, 2026, covers non-performing asset (NPA) accounts with principal outstanding below Rs 25 lakh and from Rs 25 lakh up to Rs 5 crore, subject to the prescribed eligibility and exclusion criteria. The last date for submission of applications is February 4, 2027. Speaking exclusively to Greater Kashmir , J&K Bank MD and CEO Amitava Chatterjee said the initiative was intended to provide relief to borrowers facing financial stress. RAHAT means relief, and that is what we want this scheme to bring to borrowers facing financial stress. It gives eligible borrowers a clear and dignified way to settle their outstanding dues and put a longstanding financial burden behind them, Chatterjee said. He said the scheme had uniform eligibility criteria and settlement terms, with bank branches expected to guide borrowers through the process. Eligibility criteria and settlement terms are uniform and non-discretionary. Eligible borrowers must visit their respective branches, where our teams will proactively explain what the terms mean for their accounts and guide them through each step of the settlement process, he added. According to the Banks circular, the scheme covers accounts classified as Doubtful-I, Doubtful-II, Doubtful-III, Loss Assets, Technically Written-Off Accounts (TWOs) and Recoverable Loan Advances (RLAs), with the relevant principal NPA balance determined as on June 30, 2026. The Bank has described RAHAT as a special settlement initiative aimed at reducing NPAs, accelerating recoveries and providing a structured resolution opportunity to stressed borrowers. It has set an institutional recovery objective of reducing at least 90 per cent of the eligible portfolio, while requiring all settlements to remain within the approved scheme parameters. The detailed guidelines divide borrowers into two categories. Segment A covers accounts with principal NPA outstanding below Rs 25 lakh, while Segment B covers accounts with outstanding principal from Rs 25 lakh up to Rs 5 crore. Separate settlement formulas, eligibility conditions and procedures have been prescribed for the two segments. For accounts below Rs 25 lakh, the settlement amount varies according to the outstanding amount, availability of tangible security and the accounts asset classification. In unsecured accounts with principal NPA outstanding up to Rs 10 lakh, the prescribed settlement ranges from 60 per cent of the principal balance for Doubtful-I accounts to 50 per cent for Doubtful-III, Loss, TWO and RLA accounts. Different rates apply to secured accounts. For accounts above Rs 10 lakh and below Rs 25 lakh, the guidelines prescribe an NPV-based formula for loans secured by tangible assets. The settlement calculation takes into account the Net Present Value of the charged security and its relationship with the principal NPA balance. The Bank has also provided for specified write-offs in principal and full waiver of unapplied interest, legal expenses and other charges in the categories covered by the guidelines. The detailed settlement terms for accounts ranging from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 5 crore are contained in a separate annexure to the scheme. Under the payment mechanism prescribed for the below-Rs 25 lakh segment, borrowers are required to deposit 15 per cent of the settlement amount at the time of submitting the application. The remaining 85 per cent must be paid within three months of sanction. An extension of up to three additional months may be granted if at least 50 per cent of the settlement amount is deposited within the initial three-month period. The outstanding balance in such cases will carry interest at the six-month MCLR from the date of sanction. The Bank has also announced incentives for early settlement. Borrowers making full payment within one month of sanction will receive an incentive of three per cent on the settlement amount, while those completing payment within three months will receive an incentive of 1.5 per cent. The scheme covers eligible accounts that have remained in the NPA category for at least one year, subject to other conditions. Both suit-filed and non-suit-filed accounts are covered, including certain cases pending before courts, Lok Adalats and Debt Recovery Tribunals, as well as decreed cases, subject to the required legal formalities. Guarantors may also submit settlement proposals to the extent of their liability under the guarantee. However, accounts declared as wilful defaulters or those where fraud has been reported to the RBI by the Bank are excluded. Other exclusions include specified staff accounts, loans guaranteed by the Central or State Government, cases under investigation by external agencies, accounts admitted before the National Company Law Tribunal and cases under liquidation. The Bank has directed branches, Zonal Industrial Area Recovery Centres and Industrial Area Recovery Centres to act as facilitators and sanction-issuing authorities. They will verify eligible accounts and proactively contact borrowers through letters, SMS, email or telephone. The circular prescribes a seven-day turnaround time for communicating the sanction after receipt of the application, upfront payment and acceptance letter. The Bank has also directed operative levels to complete verification of eligible borrowers within 15 days of the schemes launch. The implementation will be monitored by Cluster Heads and Zonal Heads, with periodic progress reports submitted to the Banks head office and senior management. The circular further states that eligible proposals conforming to the scheme should not be rejected by the sanction-issuing authority. Eligible borrowers have been advised to approach their respective branches to ascertain their account-specific settlement amount, understand the applicable conditions and complete the required formalities before the February 4, 2027 deadline. Meanwhile, the business community had been demanding a comprehensive Special One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme from J&K Bank, seeking coverage for borrowers with outstanding loan liabilities of up to Rs 50 crore. Various trade and business organisations had repeatedly urged the Bank to introduce a structured, borrower-friendly settlement mechanism, arguing that traders, entrepreneurs and industrial units facing financial distress needed an opportunity to resolve their stressed accounts and revive their businesses. The launch of RAHAT (SOTS-2026), covering eligible accounts with principal NPA outstanding of up to Rs 5 crore, addresses this demand to an extent, although the business communitys earlier demand for a higher coverage ceiling of Rs 50 crore remains wider than the schemes present scope.

Arif Laigroo congratulates Mehbooba Mufti on 5th consecutive term as PDP President

Srinagar, Nov 5:Former PDP State Secretary and Constituency Incharge Habba Kadal, Arif Laigroo, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Mehbooba Mufti Sahiba on her re-election for a fifth consecutive term as President of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In his congratulatory message, Arif Laigroo, as per a statement, said that her re-election for the fifth consecutive term reflects the immense trust, confidence and unwavering support of party leaders, workers and supporters in her leadership.

Dr Farooq, Omar Abdullah express condolences with Ahsan Pardesi

Srinagar, Nov 5:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday visited the residence of late Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi, a senior party leader and former MLC, at Shivpora, Srinagar, to offer condolences and express solidarity with the bereaved family. The two leaders particularly conveyed their condolences to the late leaders son, Ahsan Pardesi, Provincial Vice President of the party and MLA from Lal Chowk, and shared the grief of the family. On the occasion, both leaders, as per a statement isused, offered Fatiha Khawani for the departed soul and paid glowing tributes to him, recalling his noble qualities, public service, unwavering commitment to the party and valuable contributions towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They expressed heartfelt sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant eternal peace to the departed soul, forgive his shortcomings, elevate his status in the hereafter and grant him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous. They also prayed for strength and patience for the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

People continue to suffer despite government formation: Apni Party

Srinagar, Nov 5: The Apni Party on Thursday accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of failing to fulfil its promises, particularly on the restoration of rights withdrawn in 2019, and alleged that ordinary people have been left grappling with mounting difficulties over the past two years. Addressing a press conference after the party's monthly meeting of its cadres in Srinagar, Apni Party General Secretary Rafi Ahmed Mir said the meeting discussed the prevailing political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the government's performance and the future course of action to strengthen the party. He was joined by Provincial President Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir and Chief Spokesperson Muntazar Mohiuddin. Mir said the meeting, which was scheduled earlier, had been delayed due to the absence of party president Altaf Bukhari, who was out of the country. He said the party sought feedback from its workers on the political situation and public perception of the government's functioning. Two years have passed since the formation of the government, but ordinary people are facing more problems and difficulties. It was expected that the government would work towards restoring the rights taken away in 2019, particularly statehood and constitutional safeguards, but it has failed to deliver on its promises, Mir said. He alleged that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had been politically and legally weakened since 2019 and said the Centre had shown little willingness to empower them. The people in Delhi have no intention of empowering the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Unless the government in Delhi engages with the people, particularly the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, the gap will continue to widen. The consequences of this disconnect are not limited to Jammu and Kashmir but affect the entire country, he said. Questioning the delay in holding elections to grassroots democratic institutions, Mir said the government's position on Panchayati Raj institutions was disappointing. He said the absence of statehood could not be used as a justification for delaying elections to Panchayats, Block Development Councils and District Development Councils. Mir alleged that ministers and legislators were keen to retain control over administrative powers rather than strengthen grassroots democratic institutions. He also accused the government of neglecting public issues, including development works and the condition of hospitals, and said these concerns were discussed at length during the party meeting.

NC not merely political party but a strong peoples movement: Chowdry Ramzan

Srinagar, Nov 5: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Additional General Secretary Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan Thursday said NC is not merely a political party but a strong peoples movement, a voice of public aspirations and sentiments, and an invincible political force. He made these comments while addressing a meeting at the party headquarters on Thursday. As per a party statement issued, he said that those questioning the National Conferences struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status were deliberately pursuing a malicious agenda to mislead the people. Throughout its long history, the party has withstood formidable storms, conspiracies, political vendetta and the toughest challenges, and continues to stand firm like a rock. The party has made immense sacrifices, both financial and personal, for the protection of the rights, identity, dignity and constitutional status of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. History bears testimony to the fact that the National Conference has never compromised on its principles, public interests and historical responsibilities, nor will it ever do so in the future, he said. Such elements must understand that the National Conference raised its voice against the unconstitutional and unilateral decisions of August 5, 2019, at every available constitutional, legal, political and democratic forum. The party fought a legal battle in the Supreme Court to challenge these decisions and left no stone unturned in defending its position. Although the Supreme Court verdict did not go in accordance with our stand, that does not mean our principled position or struggle has come to an end. In the past, the same Supreme Court had, on two occasions, held Article 370 to be a permanent provision of the Constitution of India. He said that despite the recent judicial verdict, the National Conference had not abandoned its struggle; rather, it had further strengthened and expanded it. From Parliament to the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, and from public rallies to political gatherings, the National Conference had consistently and forcefully raised the demand for the restoration of special status. Aga Ruhullah was elected as the Member Parliament to represent the rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in the country's highest democratic forum. Unfortunately, he could not withstand the political atmosphere in Delhi and, instead of challenging the policies of the Union Government and the BJP, chose to wage a confrontation against his own party, he said adding, By refusing to speak against the policies of the BJP, RSS and the Union Government, while targeting his own party at every platform, whose agenda was he actually strengthening? Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan said that the National Conference had also sent its representatives to the Rajya Sabha, where they raised the demand for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. In keeping with the promise made to the people during the Assembly elections, the newly elected Assembly passed a resolution seeking the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status with an overwhelming majority during its very first session. The Assembly also passed a resolution seeking the restoration of statehood and reminded the Union Government of the 2000 Autonomy Resolution and the 2024 resolution concerning the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. These steps stand as irrefutable proof that the National Conference remains steadfast in fulfilling its electoral promises and pursuing its principled agenda, he said. He further said that it was an established fact that no rally, procession, convention, meeting or public programme of the National Conference concluded without reaffirming the partys commitment to continue its struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status. The party leadership had consistently reiterated this demand at every public gathering, political platform and media interaction.

When a cat gave someone purpose

A story, a memoir A street cat named Bob may seem like a simple tale of a man and an animal. But its far more than that. Its a story of redemption, of second chances, and of how the smallest acts of kindness can awaken the deepest parts of our souls. For drug addicts in Kashmir, it holds a mirror and a message that you are not too far gone to come back. The memoir was written by James Bowen with the help of Garry Jenkins, and was first published in March 2012 in the UK by Hodder & Stoughton. The book became an international bestseller, translated into over 30 languages, and later adapted into two feature films (A street cat named Bob, 2016 and A gift from Bob, 2020). Bob passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of healing and hope. Here is the story. In the noisy lanes of London, a man once stood silently on the edge of life. His name was James Bowen. Homeless, addicted, broken. He had no family, no job, and no reason left to wake up in the morning. Until a ginger street cat, wounded and wild, crossed his path. James could have ignored him. He could have turned his head away, just like the world had turned away from him. But something stirred within him. He gave the cat food. He cared for its wounds. And in doing so, he unknowingly began to heal his own. There is little difference between the grey alleys of London where James once roamed and the corners of Srinagar and other towns of Kashmir where too many young boys now sit, tired and lost. The faces are different, the language changes, but the ache is the same. Addiction has no passport. It doesnt care if youre in a European capital or in the foothills of the Himalayas. It steals your future and sells it to your past. In recent years, Kashmir has seen a heartbreaking rise in substance abuse. Heroin, cannabis, prescription drugs, whatever form they take, the results are the same, fractured families, stolen childhoods, rising crime, and a growing hopelessness. Behind every addict is not just a syringe or a pill, but a history of pain, loss, confusion, or neglect. These young men arent criminals; they are casualties of a system that forgot to listen to them when they cried silently. But it doesnt have to end this way. James Bowen proved it. When James met Bob, he was deep into methadone treatment, still shaky, still unsure whether he could ever feel normal again. He was playing guitar on the street, scraping coins to survive. Bob, injured, stubborn, but loyal, gave him something powerful, a reason to stay alive. You see, when someone else begins to depend on you, you slowly start depending on yourself. Taking care of Bob forced James to wake up every morning, to clean, to feed, to walk, to show up. There was no time for needles, no space for excuses. He was no longer just a recovering addict. He was a friend, a protector, a partner. And with that came dignity. This lesson is gold for young men in Kashmir battling addiction. Many are not just looking for detox. Theyre looking for meaning. They dont need another lecture. They need something or someone that makes them feel needed, useful, alive. That something could be a stray animal. It could be a mother. A child. A plant. A prayer. Anything that roots them back to life. James didnt have money. He didnt have degrees. He didnt even have a permanent address. But he had consistency. Every day, he took Bob with him to perform music on the streets. People stopped. They smiled. They gave more. Not just money, but attention. Conversations. Warmth. Eventually, someone noticed the man and the cat and wrote their story. That story became a book. The book became a bestseller. A film followed. But even if none of this fame had come, James would have still been a success. Why? Because he stayed clean. He rebuilt his life. He earned his own respect. This is where our rehab conversations in Kashmir often fall short. We treat drug addicts like files, take them in, detox them, and send them out. But we dont follow up with what they do next. We dont give them enough purpose. Every young man coming out of addiction needs a skill, a job, or even a responsibility, however small. Let them clean parks. Let them help in hospitals. Let them start a garden. Let them feed stray dogs or cats. Let them work in silence until they discover who they are beneath the dust of drugs. Small miracles are still miracles. Kashmir doesnt need celebrities. It needs survivors who walk its streets with dignity after defeating the worst in themselves. One of the most powerful parts of James story is that Bob never judged him. He didnt care about James past, his scars, his mistakes. Bob just stayed. That kind of non-judgmental companionship is rare in our society, especially for recovering addicts. We tend to shun them. Families often hide them. Neighbours whisper. Friends disappear. But animals, be it a dog, a cat, even a birdhave a way of sticking around if you give them love. And in return, they teach responsibility, patience, and emotional healing. Kashmir, with its many strays and abandoned animals, could create a program where recovering addicts volunteer at shelters. Why not let the broken help the broken? Its cheaper than expensive therapies and often more effective. Dear young man who feels like the world has given up on you, read James Bowens story. Read it not to be entertained, but to be reminded. You are not done. You are not too far. You dont have to become a best-selling author to feel whole again. You just need to take the first step: take care of something outside of yourself. Let your hands hold something other than a cigarette or a syringe. Let your eyes see the world, not through a haze, but with curiosity again. There is life beyond the tunnel. You can walk towards it. Slowly, painfully, but surely. Rehabilitation isnt just about medicine. Its about giving people reasons to change. Let us create spaces where addicts are not hidden but helped. Lets fund vocational centers. Lets train peer mentors. Lets use stories like James Bowens in our outreach campaigns, not just statistics and horror tales, but tales of hope. Every addict is not a lost cause. Many are future teachers, artists, fathers, healers, if we stop seeing them as problems and start seeing them as people. James Bowens story with his street cat Bob didnt just change his life. It has changed the lives of thousands across the world who saw in it the quiet power of loyalty, the necessity of hope, and the truth that recovery is possible, one small act at a time. May someone in Kashmir, somewhere, pick up a cat, a dog, a purpose, and never look back again. Dr. Ashraf Zainabi is a faculty at IUST, Awantipora, J&K

The Winter Within

Autumn in Kashmir is not merely a season. It is a beautiful presence an awaited one that arrives and settles into every corner of life. The Chinar leaves turn gold, the air sharpens with cold, and the valley braces itself for months of stillness. The crimson shades of red, orange, and yellow lend autumn a mellow beauty, a kind of comfort after a year of enduring the elements. But as the days grow shorter and the sunlight begins to fade, the changing season can bring something else entirely for some people. It can reach into the mind and alter the rhythms of mood, sleep, energy, and daily life. For some, a feeling of gloom gradually settles in creating a peculiar sadness that seems to follow the shortening days. The inability to feel pleasure in things once enjoyed begins to creep in. Oversleeping becomes a refuge. Weight gain may follow. Energy diminishes, motivation becomes harder to summon, and self-esteem begins to erode. What may initially seem like an ordinary response to winter can become something far more significant called the Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. SAD is more than the commonly described winter blues. It is a form of depression with a seasonal pattern, in which depressive episodes recur at particular times of the year and remit during other seasons. In a place like Kashmir, where winters can be long, cold, and frequently overcast, the seasonal environment may present particular challenges for people vulnerable to the disorder. It is a quiet struggle that can unfold behind closed doors, in dimly lit rooms, and in the silence of people who may not even have a name for what they are experiencing. Kashmirs geographical location holds relevance to this experience. Research has long suggested that SAD is more common in populations living at higher latitudes, where winter brings shorter days and reduced exposure to sunlight. In Kashmir, daylight hours become considerably shorter during the winter months, particularly between November and February. For some individuals, symptoms may begin to emerge during the autumn and early winter months and gradually improve as spring approaches. The seasonal pattern, however, is not identical for everyone, and the severity of symptoms can vary considerably. The exact causes of SAD are not fully understood, but one of the leading explanations centres on the effect of reduced exposure to sunlight on the brain and the bodys internal biological clock. Sunlight is not merely a source of warmth and illumination, it is also a powerful biological signal that helps synchronize the bodys circadian rhythm with the external environment. When that signal changes with the seasons, it can influence several systems involved in sleep, energy, and mood. The hypothalamus, a small but crucial region of the brain, plays an important role in regulating these processes. Changes in light exposure can influence melatonin, serotonin, and the circadian rhythm. Melatonin, a hormone associated with sleep, follows a daily pattern that is strongly influenced by light and darkness. In people vulnerable to SAD, seasonal changes in light exposure may contribute to excessive sleepiness and lethargy. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, appetite, and other functions, is also influenced by light exposure, and disturbances in serotonin regulation have been associated with depressive symptoms. At the same time, changes in the bodys circadian rhythm can disrupt the timing of sleep and wakefulness, contributing to fatigue, low energy, and changes in mood. The experience of SAD cannot be understood through biology alone. In Kashmir, the social and environmental realities of winter can amplify the psychological effects of seasonal change. Winter disrupts routine. Outdoor life slows down, movement becomes more difficult, and evenings grow long. Snow, freezing temperatures, and difficult roads can limit travel and reduce opportunities for social interaction. For older adults and people with mobility difficulties, the world may gradually shrink to the dimensions of a home or even a single room. Social gatherings may become less frequent, visits more difficult, and ordinary forms of connection harder to maintain. For older adults in particular, the consequences can be significant. Those who live alone or have limited social support may become increasingly isolated during the colder months. Existing physical health problems can further restrict mobility and increase psychological distress. What begins as reduced social contact can gradually become a deeper sense of withdrawal, loneliness, and disconnection. The problem is therefore not simply that winter keeps people indoors, it can also weaken some of the social structures that ordinarily provide companionship, purpose, and emotional support. Power outages can add another layer to this experience. During severe winter weather, prolonged periods without electricity can make already-dark evenings feel even longer. For someone already experiencing low mood and social withdrawal, the loss of reliable artificial light and the disruption of ordinary routines can further intensify the sense of isolation. There is also a broader mental-health context that cannot be ignored. Depression and anxiety are already significant concerns within the population, while stigma, limited awareness, and inadequate access to mental-health services can prevent many people from seeking professional support. Within this environment, SAD does not necessarily occur in isolation. Seasonal symptoms may overlap with, or add to, existing psychological vulnerabilities, making it important to distinguish a seasonal depressive pattern from other forms of depression and distress. but over the years the reserach has been able to establish that light is one of the most established treatments for SAD. Regular exposure to natural daylight can support healthy circadian rhythms, and spending time outdoors during daylight hours can be a useful part of a broader management plan. For people experiencing clinically significant seasonal depression, bright-light therapy using a specially designed light box is an evidence-based treatment. It is commonly administered in the morning for a prescribed period, often around 30 minutes, although the appropriate duration and intensity should be determined according to the individuals circumstances and professional guidance. Light therapy works primarily by influencing the bodys response to light and the circadian system. Movement is another important part of managing depressive symptoms. Cold weather naturally encourages stillness, but prolonged inactivity can reinforce fatigue and low mood. Regular physical activity even a walk when conditions permit, stretching indoors, or a simple exercise routine can support mood, sleep, and overall well-being. Movement can also become an opportunity for social interaction when it is shared with family members, friends, or community groups. Winter can isolate, but small rituals can help resist that isolation. Shared meals, tea with family, storytelling, regular visits, study groups, or a simple phone call to a loved one can create moments of belonging during months when social contact becomes more difficult. These actions are not substitutes for professional treatment when treatment is needed, but they can serve as meaningful protective factors. Recognizing the signs, maintaining daily routines, seeking daylight and movement where possible, staying connected with others, and reaching out to a mental-health professional when symptoms become overwhelming can all make a difference. The valley has endured centuries of winters, and its people have learned to survive them but survival is not the same as thriving, and no one should have to simply endure months of darkness because suffering has been mistaken for something that must be tolerated. If the gloom of the season begins to feel like a weight that will not lift, seeking help is not weakness. It is not ingratitude for the beauty of autumn or the quiet of snow. It is an acknowledgment that the mind, like the body, needs care and that asking for it is one of the most human things we can do. After all, even the longest winter eventually gives way to spring but there is no need to wait for it in the dark. Tamana Ajaz, Rehabilitation Trainee Counsellor

Only 1 local terrorist active, Srinagar faces persistent threat inputs: IGP Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 5:Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar said on Thursday that only one local terrorist remains active in the Valley, even as Srinagar continues to receive persistent threat inputs that have prompted additional security measures. Addressing a news conference, the IGP Kashmir identified the lone active local terrorist as Muhammed Lateef Bhat of Kulgam, who is linked to two terror attacks earlier this year - one in Anantnag that killed a police official and another in Kulgam in which two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh were shot dead. There is certainly one local terrorist, supported by a few foreign terrorists. We have some footprints, but giving a fixed number of active terrorists would be an exaggeration because they are constantly moving from one place to another, Kumar said. He said that there is no official data available on any infiltration this year. Kumar said security forces continue to track the group based on available inputs. Referring to recent encounters in Budgam, the IGP said the terrorists killed in two operations were shot dead in the upper reaches. The area connects with the Pir Panjal range and Kishtwar, terrain that has remained a focus of joint operations by the Army, J&K Police, and Central Armed Police Forces. Sustained domination of these high-altitude areas has enabled successful operations, he noted. On the technological capabilities of the terrorists, IGP Kashmir said said the gadgets they are using are under surveillance. Whatever technology they are using is on our radar. We have devised a mechanism and will not allow their nefarious designs to succeed, he said, while declining to share operational specifics. The IGP Kashmir also detailed security arrangements along the National Highway. He said that following a terror attack, a security mechanism was put in place and aligned along the highway. Further realignment will be discussion with other agencies, Kumar said. In Srinagar we get inputs, which is why extra measures have been put in place. Still, we recover IEDs around the National Highway - threats are there, he said. About restrictions, the IGP Kashmir said that the matter would have to be discussed with other agencies. The remarks come amid ongoing implementation of the winter security strategy. Earlier this week, Kumar reviewed the Srinagar City security grid and arrangements along the Jhelum corridor, directing officers to strengthen coordination and operational preparedness. Police officials said the security grid remains focused on intelligence-based operations, area domination and inter-agency synergy to neutralise residual threats and protect public spaces, including key routes.

Ranji Trophy 2026-27:Qamran, Shubham centuries power J&K to first-innings win over Pondicherry

Srinagar, Nov 5:Powered by magnificent centuries from Qamran Iqbal and Shubham Khajuria and a six-wicket haul from Sunil Kumar, Jammu and Kashmir secured a first-innings win over Pondicherry in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match, which ended in a draw on Thursday at the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Resuming their first innings at 491 for five on the final day, J&K added 64 runs before declaring at 555 for six, setting Pondicherry a challenging task of overcoming the deficit to avoid defeat. The visitors, however, displayed resilience in their second innings, reaching 269 for six in 65 overs before the match ended in a draw, with J&K awarded the first-innings victory. J&K's batting effort was led by openers Qamran Iqbal and Shubham Khajuria, who had smashed magnificent centuries on the previous day. Qamran scored 160, while Shubham contributed 190, laying the foundation for the hosts' imposing total. Kawalpreet Singh, who resumed the innings unbeaten on 53, went on to score 70 , helping J&K extend their lead before the declaration. Chasing the deficit, Pondicherry's top order struggled against the J&K bowling attack, losing wickets at regular intervals. Ankit Sharma top-scored with 62 off 120 deliveries, while Aman Khan remained unbeaten on 52 off 54 balls. Ritesh Gudge contributed 38, and wicketkeeper Prasad Pawar added 32 to provide some resistance. J&K's frontline bowlers made regular inroads into the Pondicherry batting line-up, with debutant Waseem Khanday and Umar Nazir claiming two wickets each. Umar finished with figures of two for 62, while Waseem took two for 35. Sunil Kumar, who had claimed six wickets in the first innings, added another wicket to his tally, finishing with figures of one for 45. Rohit Sharma also picked up a wicket. The visitors eventually reached 269 for six, leaving J&K with a substantial first-innings advantage and the match ending in a draw. The result provides J&K with a valuable boost in their campaign after a difficult start to the season. The hosts had managed just two points from their first three matches, with their batting unit struggling to produce consistent performances. The match, however, offered encouraging signs, particularly through the opening partnership between Qamran and Shubham, while Sunil Kumar's six-wicket haul underlined the strength of the bowling attack. J&K will now look to carry the momentum from the performance into their remaining Ranji Trophy fixtures.

An anthology of short stories

In simple terminology, language, and flow, some stories in Mohammad Hussain Zafars maiden anthology of short stories, Shareefoon Ka Mohhala, give the distinct impression of being both autobiographical and biographical. The stories are firmly grounded in real-life existence, offering educative and moral lessons. They feature political, social, financial, environmental, behavioural, and administrative themes that reveal both negative and positive societal trends. When a reputed and established writer like Noor Shah writes words of praise, there remains no doubt about the capability and literary acumen of Zafar. Commentary and notes from Professor Danish Iqbal, Nasir Zameer, and Mazhar Ali Mazhar Rampuri further reinforce the authenticity of the author. All thirty-one short stories effectively evolve from ground zero, giving social and societal plots a lions share. In the beautifully woven opening story, Zanjeer, a malang (mendicant) sings chal mere ghode tik tik tik, catching the attention of local school students. Trying to bring the students concentration back on track, a teacher gives three of his favourite students a rope to play with and poses a symbolic question, binding the rope to them one by one. The first student, bound by the feet, symbolizes the rope as shackles. The second student, with the rope around his throat, perceives it as a noose. The third student, bound by the hands, feels it is a pair of handcuffs. The mendicant suddenly waves an iron chain, telling them to stop because three generations are enough. The story unfolds multidimensional atrocities concealed beneath a veil over a period in which three generations have suffered. In Ahsaas, an old man is initially blocked from meeting a government officer by security, but he turns out to be the officers former teacher and guide, highlighting a profound bond. The trembling officer harbours a hidden secret associated with the teacher that has haunted him throughout his life. As the student-turned-officer respectfully addresses him as sir, it is revealed that the old man is having issues with his passport verification. The officer tries to make the teacher recognize him, but when the teacher fails to do so, the officer introduces himself. This time, the teacher recognizes his former student. A weeping officer confesses to the theft of his teachers pursewhich happened to be his first and last theft. The compassionate teacher kisses his forehead, saying that the mischief of childhood is never taken to heart. Phhawda (The Spade) is the story of a father who wants to prevent his son from getting entangled in the cobweb of ego and superiority. Salmaan goes to Baramulla for the first time without his parents and returns home with satisfying academic results. On his first day to college, his father gives him a new spade to get sharpened by a blacksmith who is a close friend. Salmaan feels uneasy carrying a spade around. Nevertheless, he returns with the sharpened spade in the evening. The next day, his father hands him the spade again for some repair work on its corners, which he carries unwillingly. On the third consecutive day, his father asks him to take the spade back once more for handle work. This time, Salmaan is agitated but remains silent. Eventually, two maidens whisper about him on a bus. Sensing the boys embarrassment, the blacksmith smiles and tells Salmaan to ask his father to come himself for the spade next time. From that day on, his father no longer asks him to carry it. Days and years pass, and Salmaan becomes an IAS officer. Lost in memories, he decides to revisit his old school and teachers. On his way, he catches sight of the blacksmith and stops to meet him. Uncle, do you recognize me? I am the son of your friend. Do you remember the boy who used to come with a spade? The blacksmith embraces him and unexpectedly hands him that same spade, leaving a message for his father: there is no longer any need for repair, chiselling, or sharpening. The spade had been lying with him ever since. This was the fathers subtle way of shaping his sons character. In Panah (Shelter), the narrator finds refuge neither in a temple nor in a mosque while looking for a job as a newcomer to the area. He then turns to a gurudwara, only to face a similar reaction. Climbing a ladder, he encounters men indulging with beautiful women. Trying to escape this corrupt atmosphere, he eventually faints, only to wake up the next morning under warm blankets with hot water bottles beside hima scene highlighting the unpredictability of human nature. The story also exposes the hypocrisy and inhumanity of those who preach compassion. It concludes with a thought-provoking line that leaves readers reflecting on human sensitivity and insensitivity: Panah dee bhi to aisi jagah jahaan jaane se tum ne baar baar panah maangne ki talqeen ki hai. (You gave me refuge in the very place against which you repeatedly warned me to seek refuge.) In Dushman Ki Beti (The Enemys Daughter), conflict, cross-border firing, and war fail to strip the rivals of their humanity. The opponent prioritizes honor, humanity, and the life of his rivals daughter, stating: Beti beti hoti hai, chaahe apni ho ya dushman ki. (A daughter is a daughter, whether she is ones own or the enemys.) In the title story, Shareefoon Ka Mohhala, the protagonist wants to buy the old house of Ahmad Sahab, who is relocating. However, he is surprised to learn that the house has been sold to a woman. Soon after, a sudden influx of cars and visitors at the womans house raises suspicion among the villagers, leading them to assume she is of questionable character. The self-proclaimed respectable residents of the neighbourhood begin plotting ways to evict her, reigniting the protagonists hopes of buying the property. However, when a group from the neighbourhood goes to confront her, they are overcome with shame: they find the woman on her deathbed, surrounded by people softly reciting the Holy Quran. Mard Aurat Ki Zinda Kahaani is a poignant narrative about a mother abandoned by her own son, who instead receives warmth and affection from her tenant, Zafar, during his college days. Years later, Zafar has become a man of wealth and repute, yet he remains deeply connected to his former house owners, remembering how he struggled to make ends meet in those days. One night, Boba (the mother) appears in his dream, revealing her tragic life and the unfilial behaviour of her son. She asks Zafar to give a shoulder to her coffin and write about how she fed her son, only for him to turn out ungratefulshowing up merely for appearance to pour a few drops of Zamzam water into her mouth. In a chilling climax, she tells Zafar that those few drops are still stuck in her throat. Zafar ultimately reads his written story beside Bobas grave. This rising tragedy of filial neglect on global, national, and local scales is similarly explored in another story, Unwaan. Themes of militancy, circumstantial turmoil, kidnappings, vote-bank politics, stone-pelting, and systemic hypocrisy also run throughout the book. In one story, Majid is kidnapped while returning home after purchasing household essentials. After days of torture, he is brought before a judge, whose pen slips from his hand upon seeing him. The police introduce Majid under the alias of Bashir Ahmad Khan, a notorious stone-pelter. Majids response is hauntingly piercing: Aaj pehli baar maaloom pada ki mera naam Bashir Ahmad Khan hai aur main badnaam sangbaaz huun. (Today for the first time I realized that my name is Bashir Ahmad Khan and that I am a notorious stone-pelter.) In Patwari, an official records eighteen marlas of land instead of one kanal (twenty marlas). When approached through his wife, the patwari amends the record to nineteen marlas. After receiving a bribe, he alters the record againthis time to twenty-one marlas. Desperate, the God-fearing landowner seeks police intervention, but the patwari absurdly attempts to justify the expanding and shrinking land as a result of changing weather seasons. Here, Zafar masterfully employs black humour to expose corrupt administrative practices. In another heart-wrenching story, Aziz Khan returns home to fulfil his promise to marry his beloved Reshma, only to find her grave amidst the ruins of his house, which was destroyed in an armed encounter. While clearing the debris, Reshma had fallen victim to an unexploded shell, ultimately fulfilling her vow of fidelity by being buried within Khans compound. Overall, the author deserves high praise for presenting such a compelling collection in Shareefoon Ka Mohhala. My only minor critique is that out of 191 pages, nearly thirty-five pages are taken up by introductory papers, commentary, and other details, which feels somewhat excessive. Adarsh Ajit is a columnist, translator, poet and reviewer. He is the author of Yaad Jo Aate Hain Voh Din, Refugees from Fullai and Paradise Connectivity. He is the co-editor of the books From Home to House and We Had Everything

Tanveer Khans remarkable journey across Himalayas

Srinagar, Nov 5:From remote mountain trails to exploring hidden alpine lakes and running across high-altitude passes, Tanveer Khan, popularly known as Tani Khan, has spent 14 years pursuing his passion for the mountains. On October 31, he claims to have completed the exploration of 300 alpine lakes across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, all located above 3,500 metres. His journey has covered more than 10,000 kilometres on foot, reflecting years of endurance, exploration and an abiding love for the Himalayas. He acknowledges the support of his family, friends and those who stood beside him throughout this journey, with special gratitude to an avid trekker and bureaucrat Mahmood Ahmad Shah . His journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of exploration. From a young age, Tanveer was captivated by the mountains. This deep connection with nature only grew stronger with time, but the lack of platforms and opportunities to venture into the mountains initially posed a significant challenge. Trekking has been a huge part of my lifes journey. As I grew up I only wanted to go further, higher, steeper, and of course that leads to trekking expedition, and I never lost that desire to explore Tanveer Khan told Greater Kashmir. On 31 October 2026, Tanveer reached a remarkable milestone in that journey: the exploration of 300 alpine lakes across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all above 3,500 metres above sea level. But behind this number lies a story far greater than a collection of achievements. It is a story of fourteen years of exploration, more than 10,000 kilometres on foot, countless demanding expeditions, substantial personal expenditure, family sacrifices and an extraordinary determination to keep moving towards the unknown. A Journey That Began in 2012 Tanveer's mountain journey began in 2012 with JKMHC. What started as an interest gradually developed into a passion that would shape much of his life. In those early years, i began learning the language of the mountains: understanding routes, reading landscapes, navigating difficult terrain and developing the physical endurance required for remote exploration. As my experience grew, so did my ambitions. eventually established my own group, Pathfinders, giving my exploration journey a new identity and direction Tanveer said. But Tanveer was not interested in simply following established routes. He wanted to go beyond them. He began exploring places that were rarely part of mainstream trekking itineraries, searching for hidden valleys, high mountain passes and alpine lakes that remained largely unfamiliar to the wider adventure community. What began over a decade ago as a personal quest to explore the hidden high-altitude wilderness of the Himalayas has evolved into one of the most comprehensive visual and baseline environmental documentations of the regions fragile alpine ecosystems. Navigating treacherous mountain passes, unpredictable weather, and extreme altitudes where oxygen levels drop significantly, Tanveers journey has taken him through some of the most remote valleys in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges. Environmentalists and local mountaineering communities have lauded Tanveers effort. Beyond the physical accomplishment, his vast repository of photographs and terrain observations offers valuable context on glacier melt, seasonal water shifts, and the impact of increasing human footprint in high-altitude zones. The explorer who refused to let winter stop him: While most mountain activities in Kashmir traditionally gained momentum during the warmer months, Tanveer began taking a different approach. He initiated regular Sunday winter explorations, continuing his mountain journeys even when snow covered the trails and temperatures dropped. For him, winter was not a reason to stay away from the mountains. It was another season waiting to be explored. Those Sunday journeys gradually became an inspiration for others. More people began venturing into the mountains during winter, following a culture of exploration that had once seemed unusual to many. What began as a personal commitment eventually helped encourage a new generation to experience Kashmir's mountains beyond the conventional summer season says Tanveer. Obsession With 300 Alpine Lakes Somewhere along the journey, Tanveer's attention became increasingly focused on the high-altitude lakes scattered across the mountains of Jammu & Kashmir. Many of these lakes were known to local shepherds and people familiar with the terrain, but remained largely absent from mainstream adventure conversations and organised trekking itineraries. He began studying maps, identifying possible routes and planning expeditions to reach these remote water bodies. Every lake brought a different challenge. Some required long approaches through rugged valleys; others demanded steep climbs, difficult descents, river crossings and hours of navigation through unfamiliar terrain. There were no easy shortcuts. Reaching these places often meant enduring physical exhaustion, unpredictable weather and the uncertainty of remote mountain travel. Over the years, Tanveer's explorations helped bring numerous lesser-known alpine lakes into wider public awareness. Places that had once been little more than names or markings on maps began appearing in photographs, videos and accounts shared with a new generation of mountain enthusiasts. His efforts also helped document routes and provide useful information for people who would later attempt these journeys. First came the milestone of 200 alpine lakes, for which he received recognition from the India Book of Records. The achievement was an important moment in his journey, but it did not mark the end of his ambitions. He continued exploring, eventually crossing 250 lakes and setting his sights on the next milestone. After years of searching, planning and travelling through demanding mountain terrain, Tanveer completed the exploration of his 300th alpine lake. Three hundred alpine lakes. More than 10,000 kilometres on foot. Fourteen years of pursuing the unknown. For Tanveer, however, the number is not merely a statistic. Each lake represents a journey, a challenge and a memory written into the mountains. From exploration and speed hiking, he gradually moved towards mountain running and skyrunning. The challenge was no longer limited to reaching remote lakes. It became about running on steep mountain trails, negotiating rocky ridgelines and moving through high-altitude terrain where every climb demands extraordinary effort. He took on uphill running challenges on eight of Kashmir's motorable mountain passes Razdan Top, Zoji La Top, Sinthan Top, Margan Top, Banihal Top, Phykiryan Top, Sadhana Top, Z-Gali Top9 These efforts included uphill half-marathon challenges, testing his endurance on long climbs where elevation gain mattered as much as distance. Even before marathon running became familiar in the local adventure scene, Tanveer had undertaken a full marathon from Razdan Top to Dawar and a 30-kilometre uphill run to Drass. His transition into skyrunning took the challenge further. Running above 4,000 metres, negotiating rocky trails, exposed ridges and demanding high-altitude terrain became part of his training and exploration. From his first mountain experiences with JKMHC in 2012 to establishing Pathfinders, from Sunday winter explorations to 300 alpine lakes, and from speed hiking to high-altitude running, Tanveer Khan's journey has continually evolved. The 300-lake milestone may be one of the biggest achievements of his life, but it does not necessarily represent a finish line. For someone who has already walked more than 10,000 kilometres pursuing the unknown, the next destination is always waiting beyond the horizon.